Heat press printers or machines are always a needed tool for great prints. If you are in search for the best one, here are some.
Creating art is always a cathartic experience. But being able to create art that you can wear or hold?
That’s an interestingly different experience altogether. If this is something that you would want to pursue and someday make a business out of, you’ll need the right tools to be successful.
One of the tools you’ll be needing is a heat press printer. This will allow you to transfer your art to mugs, t-shirts, hats, and other things. It’s especially important if you want to create merchandise that has a professional finish.
So how do you find the best heat press machine for your needs? What do you need to consider? Where can you get them?
We’ll be answering all of these questions in this article. Aside from that, we will also be providing a list of the best heat press machines on the market today.
Let’s get started!
7 Best Heat Press Machines in 2023
- PowerPress Industrial-Quality Heat Press Machine — Best overall heat press
- Circuit Easy Press 2- medium — Best for heat pressing clothes
- PowerPress Home Press Portable Heat Machine — Best portable heat press
- Circuit Mug Press — Best heat press for mugs
- F2C Pro Heat Press — Best multifunction heat press
- BetterSub Heat Press 12×15 — Best value heat press
- Cricut EasyPress 2 (Large) — Best heat press for blankets and banners
- RoyalPress —Best industrial heat press machine
- VEVOR Heat Press Machine —Best versatile heat press machine
- TUSY Heat Press— Best heat press with safety
What is the Best Heat Press Machine?
PowerPress Industrial-Quality Heat Press Machine is the best heat press printer overall. Check out our comparison table to know the best heat press machines from the list.
How Do I Choose a Heat Press Machine?
Let’s start the article with a short discussion on what are the things that we need to consider when choosing a heat press machine.
Time
Time is an important factor when working with a heat press. Some materials need more time to be pressed for the design to transfer properly and others need less. Getting a heat press that comes with its own timer helps you work with better accuracy and consistency.
Temperature and Pressure
Temperature and pressure also vary depending on the material that you’re transferring your designs to. If you’re working with ceramics like mugs, you’ll apply only light temperature and pressure to transfer your design. But if you’re working with t-shirts, you’ll need more pressure and heat to make sure the design doesn’t peel off of the fabric.
The heat press that you’ll get should be able to precisely work with these specifications. You should be able to customize the temperature of your heat press and how much pressure it applies to your medium.
Top 7 Heat Press Machines in 2023
1. PowerPress Industrial-Quality Heat Press Machine
The best heat press machine overall
If you’re looking for a heat press that allows you to work easily, then the PowerPress heat press is a great choice. It’s going to be a great fit for designers who are looking to do printing professionally. This is because the press size of this device is 38.1 x 38.1 cm.
You have full digital control over temperature and time range. For temperature, it ranges from 32 to 455 degrees. As for the time range, it ranges from 0 to 999 seconds. Since they’re both digitally controlled, you can be assured of accuracy and consistency.
The press is coated with non-stick Teflon so heat and pressure are distributed evenly. It also prevents any scorching or burns marks on your projects.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Easy to clean due to silicone mat on the board | ➖ Heavy |
➕ Temperature up to 235°C |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Teflon coated Heating Plate: 15x15 inch. Voltage: 110V. Power: 1400 W. Digital Control Board (Temperature Range: 32-455 F & Time Range: 0-999 s)
- Removable Silicon Mat: The silicon mat is not glued on the bottom board. Advantages: Washable (Easy to clean after work) & Replaceable (Easy to replace with new mat). Please feel free to move or...
- Bottom handle: When the heating plate is closed with high temperature, the shape of the machine might change slightly. A bottom handle can then help you open the plate easily and safely.
- Patented Design Control Chip: Makes the machine more powerful, more accurate and safer to control the temperature.
- Replaceable Fuse: Protect machine from overheating and electric short.
2. Cricut Easy Press 2 (medium)
The best for heat pressing clothes
If you’re looking for a heat press that would be perfect for transferring designs to t-shirts, the Cricut Easy Press 2 is the one for you. This heat press can take care of projects that are up to 9 x 9 cm. This makes it a perfect tool for when you’re going to print on t-shirts, throw pillows, or tote bags.
You can adjust the temperature of this heat press to up to 400 degrees. This makes it easier to work with different kinds of materials since some need more heat than others. The heat press has an advanced heat plate design with a ceramic-coated surface. This allows the heat press to heat up in only under 2 minutes.
As for portability, this heat press is lightweight so it’s easy to bring with you when you’re out traveling. For safety, it comes equipped with an insulated safety base and auto-shutoff feature. These are extra features that reduce accidents for users.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Available in different colors | ➖ Limited pressing size |
➕ Temperature up to 180°C |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- A NO-STRESS HEAT PRESS — Get pro-level heat-transfer results with Cricut EasyPress 2, the speed of a heat press and the convenience of an iron.
- ADJUSTABLE TIME AND TEMPERATURE— Control temperature up to 400 ºF (205 ºC) and set the timer to take on just about any heat transfer project that comes your way.
- QUICK, EASY RESULTS — Featuring an advanced heat plate design with a ceramic-coated surface, the press heats up in under 2 minutes and can take on even the most intricate prints in no time.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY TO STORE — Cricut EasyPress 2 is equipped with an insulated safety base & auto-off feature to help make every heat transfer project a safe, worry-free experience.
- SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS — Cricut products conform with applicable product standards like UL, CSA, FCC, or IEC standards. Cricut products are also listed or certified Nationally Recognized Testing Labs...
3. PowerPress Home Press Portable Heat Machine
The best portable heat press
This device can be considered as one of the best heat presses that have a touch screen control panel. The panel helps you determine the temperature of the heat press and the duration of the process. The machine has a heat press size of 10″×12″. This is a good size if you’re working with t-shirts and other larger materials.
This heat press has an anti-overheating system. Because it is constructed with three layers of heat-resistant materials, the external casing doesn’t get hot. This reduces the chances of getting burned while using the device.
If, for example, you forget to turn off the device, it has a shutoff function that prevents overheating. Once the system of the device detects overheating, it activates the shutoff function.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Allows pressure regulation | ➖ The handle tends to get warm |
➕ Gets shutoff for overheating |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Heating plate size: 10×12. Larger size enables you to make shirts for all your family members: from your babies to spouse, perfect for a variety of transfer work and yet lightweight of only 8 lbs.
- Touch screen control panel: Super sensitive touch screen ensures an easier and smoother operation while maintaining a fashionable and modern appearance
- Pressure Regulating System: Four patentable pressure regulating springs, co-used with specially-designed heat resistant mat uniform and necessary pressure. A grown-up is able to easily finish the...
- Safe anti-overheating system: Three layers of heat-resistant construction insulates the external casing from the heat. Only a bit of warmth can be felt on the handle, even after working 2 hours...
- Dual-function base: In safety mode, you and your family couldn't get burned by accident. In working mode, the heating plate could greatly dissipate heat
4. Cricut Mug Press
The best heat press for mugs
Cricut Mug Press is an interesting heat press because it was specifically designed to transfer art to mugs. Since it serves such a specific use, it is equipped with a single-touch option to make things simple and easy.
This heat press can work with mug sizes between 350 to 470 ml. It has a pro-heating feature that helps with the transfer process so designing those mugs is easier than ever.
The device has a dimension of 33.29 x 23.5 x 21.2cm. This makes it a very light and portable heat press that you can bring with you when you’re out traveling. You can use a USB cord for activation and then monitor the progress of your project with the Cricut software.
Once you’re done, the mugs come out as dishwasher and microwave safe. It’s definitely a feature worth noting since you would want the users of your mug to be safe while they’re using your creations.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Compatible with other Cricut machines | ➖ Only works with Infusible ink |
➕ Single-touch settings |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- CREATE DECOR WITH A ONE-TOUCH SETTING — Get the mug of your dreams with Cricut Mug Press, a pro-level press designed to transform mug blanks (11 oz - 16 oz) into works of art with designs that last...
- VIBRANT GIFTS FOR ALL — Turn a mug blank (sold separately) into an unforgettable gift for friends, family & the ones you love.
- ONE-OF-A-KIND CUSTOMIZATION — The patent-pending heat plate with zone heating creates consistent results that are peel-proof, dishwasher safe. Use Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets, Pens, or Markers....
- PERFECT COMPANION FOR CRICUT PRODUCTS — This unique heat press for mugs is an ideal companion for all Cricut smart cuting machines. Enjoy a worry-free experience with an auto-off safety feature.
- SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS — Cricut products conform with applicable product standards like UL, CSA, FCC, or IEC standards. Cricut products are also listed or certified Nationally Recognized Testing Labs...
5. F2C Pro Heat Press
The best multifunction heat press
The F2C Pro is a great option if you’re really looking into investing in a quality heat press machine for your business. It dimension is 30.48 x 25.4 x 34.30 cm.
The temperature and time are both digitally controlled. This helps in making sure that your printing process is accurate and consistent throughout all of your projects. It can go from a temperature of 0 to 200 C and can time the projects from 0 to 9999 seconds.
This heat press has a printing area of 23 x 30 cm. This working area is perfect for individuals who like having the option to print large designs on t-shirts.
It also has an aluminum heat plate so the heat evenly spreads on your design. The Teflon cover is heat resistant and makes sure that the surface isn’t sticky. This makes it easier for users to prevent burning and sticking while printing.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Aluminum heat plate with Teflon cover | ➖ Limited power capacity of 800 watts |
➕ Affordable |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- New Professional Clamshell Heat Press Machine-Voltage:110V Power:800W; Temperature Range:0-200C(0-400F);Time Range:0~ 9999 second, US-standard grounded plug
- Printing area:10"x12" (23* 30cm); The silicon pad can endure maximum 280 degrees Celsius without any distortion while extremely safe when working
- Aluminum heat plate, heating uniformity on the surface. The teflon cover is heat resistance, surface is not sticky, can make printing more steady and prevent burning. Non-slip rubber handle - you may...
- It has temperature and time preset, you will hear a sound once it reaches the designated number, end up without any damaged design
- Good in heat transfer printing on t-shirt, bags, puzzles, mouse pads etc. This is a great starter press or for those needing something transportable for quick logo presses, will definitely take your...
6. BetterSub Heat Press 12×15
The best value heat press
The heating plate is made of aluminum so the heat spreads evenly. It can also swing 360 degrees so it’s easier to move out of the way once you’re done pressing your design. The base has a heat-resistant silicone pad and pressure sponge. This makes it safer for you to work with the machine and helps prevent burning on your designs.
The temperature and time are both digitally controlled. This makes the device more accurate and consistent. The temperature can range from 0 to 226 celsius and the time duration can range from 0 to 999 seconds.
This is a 5 in 1 heating press because it comes with 4 more extensions. These include a mug heater for 11 0z, a 15 diameter plate heater, a 12.5 diameter plate heater, and an 8 x 15 cm cap heater. This makes it a highly versatile device that is capable of working on different mediums.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Versatile | ➖ Lacks better temperature range |
➕ Provides a great work area |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- ✔New 5 in 1 Industrial-Quality 12” X 15” heat press machine,full 360-degree rotation and professional swing-away design. Note: Machine Printing Size: 11.5inch*15inch (29*38CM)
- ✔Safe Using: Solid-State Relays are more capable of protecting circuits and avoid fire in over voltage than Electronic Relay
- ✔Combo Heat Press Machine = 29cmx38cm Shirt Press + 8cmx15cm Cap Press + cylinder-shaped Mug Press(11oz) + 12.5cm Plate Press machine + 15cm Plate Press machine
- ✔LCD Control Board✔Teflon Surface: Full digital control over those two parameters. Temperature range: 0-440℉; Time range: 0-999 s; Power: 1000W Max
- ✔Manual and Video for you. So you can read the product instruction anytime.
7. Cricut EasyPress 2 (Large)
The best heat press for blankets and banners
This model of Cricut EasyPerss 2 is similar to the first heat press that we discussed in this list. The main difference is that it has a larger press size. Since this is a larger version, the press size is 30.48 x 25.4 cm. This makes it perfect for when you’re working on larger designs on larger mediums like blankets, banners, or bags.
Just like the other models, it has an advanced heating plate design with a ceramic coating. This design distributes the heat evenly. The temperature can be adjusted to a maximum of 400 degrees.
It also has an insulated safety base for when you’re not using the device. It’s a safe place to put your device while you’re working.
Pros |
Cons |
➕A great option for larger projects | ➖ Costly |
➕ Temperature can be controlled up to 205°C | |
➕ Safe shutoff feature |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- A NO-STRESS HEAT PRESS — Get pro-level heat-transfer results with Cricut EasyPress 2, the speed of a heat press and the convenience of an iron.
- ADJUSTABLE TIME AND TEMPERATURE— Control temperature up to 400 ºF (205 ºC) and set the timer to take on just about any heat transfer project that comes your way.
- QUICK, EASY RESULTS — Featuring an advanced heat plate design with a ceramic-coated surface, the press heats up in under 2 minutes and can take on even the most intricate prints in no time.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY TO STORE — Cricut EasyPress 2 is equipped with an insulated safety base & auto-off feature to help make every heat transfer project a safe, worry-free experience.
- SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS — Cricut products conform with applicable product standards like UL, CSA, FCC, or IEC standards. Cricut products are also listed or certified Nationally Recognized Testing Labs...
8. RoyalPress
Best industrial heat press machine
If you are searching for a stellar choice for beginners, then RoyalPress is the best pick for you. With a pull-away design, the heat press is safe to use for printing purposes. You can easily work through this heat press machine without getting closer to hot plates by large-sized lower plates.
The plates are made of aluminum with a teflon coating, making it durable. Having a magnetic lock prevents the plate from slippage. As it is accurate, the heat press beeps and gets unlocked after the process is done. Since the RoyalPress features a temperature display and function controller, it is a good pick for beginners. This heat press will be suitable for t-shirts, bags, mouse pads, etc.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Easy time settings and controls | ➖It takes time for heat to reach the aluminum. |
➕Well designed |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Brand New Industrial-Quality Press-casting aluminum heating plate with teflon coating,don't need coated sheet anymore;Printing Area:15" x 15" (38 x 38cm);
- Temperature range:0-480F Fahrenheit degree(0-250 Centigrade),Time Range:0-999 second, Counter Range:0-999pcs; Voltage:110v, Power:1400W; With US-standard grounded plug;
- Color LED Intelligent Memory Digital temperature,time and counter triple function controller, Provides extra function of calculating production;
- Special Thickened Aluminum Heating Plate make the even and stable temperature over the heating plate; Professional in heat transfer printing on t-shirt, bags, puzzles, mouse pads etc;
- Warm note:T-shirts are NOT included in the package.Thanks.
9. VEVOR Heat Press Machine
Best versatile heat press machine
Are you searching for a heat press machine with versatility? The Vevor Heat Press Machine is the best choice for you. Featuring two-layer insulation technology, this heat press machine is capable of providing maximized performance in printing.
As it is cost-effective, the heat press machine features reliable and efficient motherboards. For fast operation, you can easily control the temperature and time through digital control. The accurate temperature control is one of the efficient features of a heat press machine.
Along with the 360 degree rotating swing away pads, the heat press machine also features dual thermal insulation. Having a rubber handle that is durable saves you effort in fixing or adjusting the plates. Considering the quality, the heat press has a teflon coating that acts as a protective layer to the heat press.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Efficient digital controls | ➖Lacks anti-slip bottom foam pad |
➕Dual thermal insulation | |
➕Strong and durable handle |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- VERSATILE USAGE- Attached 6 accessories easily work on banners, blankets, hoodies, shirts, mugs, cups, hats, caps, plates, vinyl, cotton, metal, ceramics, modal, even glass. Best choice of the DIY...
- COST-EFFECTIVE WITH BEST FIT- 12x15 inch heat press platen fit most your pressing usage and money saver compared with the larger size. 6"x 3" hat/cap Press, 11 oz and 8 oz mug press, 5" and 6" plate...
- TEFLON COATED- Non-stick teflon coated heat press platen offer tees extra protection with preventing sticking. Built-in loud beep will notify you once finished.
- 360° SWING AWAY- 360 degrees rotation swing away effectively protects you from the high temperature upper platen while operating and transfer vinyl from curling up at the edges!
- PRECISE CONTROL- 0-450 degree F temperature and 0-999s timer in control panel with dual LCD display gives you full control as expected! Pressure adjustment knob enables you to find the precise amount...
10. TUSY Heat Press
Best heat press with safety
The Tusy heat press is the best pick for most of the products. The heat press ensures safety due to the teflon coating. This can easily stop you from accidental burns.
The sponge pads and thick silicon of the heat press are elastic and capable of giving great results through flat pressing. You can easily adjust and control the pressure as per your work through the pressure adjusting knob.
Due to the swing-away design, the heat press conquers less space so that you can use this at home and at the office. Considering this impressive feature, Tusy Heat Press is a best pick not only for professional but for personal purposes.
Pros |
Cons |
➕Provides stability | ➖Lacks proper instruction |
➕Great arm rotation | |
➕Thick plates |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 👍PREMIUM QUALITY -TUSY heat press platen is covered by teflon thus helping to prevent you from burning and and protecting your vinyl. No need for a separate silicone/teflon sheet. Thickened...
- 👍Heat Press Slide Out -Extra slide out rail is added at the bottom, thus you can pull out the tray and transfer perfect colors easily. Slide out heat press with 5 in 1 design, greatly increases...
- 👍BETTER CONTROL BOARD -LCD displays show time and temperature (in Fahrenheit or Celsius alternatively) to provide you with precisely control of time and temperature. Time Control: 0-999 seconds,...
- 👍HEATER PLATE -Heat press machine provides a large surface transfer onto flat surfaced items. It can transfer colorful pictures and characters of sublimating and dissolved printing ink onto...
- 👍5 IN 1 HEAT PRESS -Mug press sublimation 3"-3.5" (11 oz), Hat press 6"x3" ; Plate press #1: Diameter (max) 5 & Plate Press #2: Diameter (max) 6", ideal for pressing t shirts, mugs, hats, plates,...
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider while buying a heat press machine?
You have to consider the time, temperature, and pressure in a heat press. The accuracy of the machine depends on these factors. So, you have to buy a heat press machine in which you can set the time, temperature, and pressure as per your needs.
Why should I buy PowerPress Industrial-Quality Heat Press Machine?
As the name suggests, PowerPress is a heat press that provides an industry quality. It has a press size of 38.1 x 38.1 cm. In this machine, you can control the temperature from 32 to 455 degrees. The non-stick Teflon coating of the press helps in maintaining the heat in the process. Due to these reasons, PowerPress is one of the great choices.
Best Heat Press Machine Final Takeaway
Art can be extra special if you can wear it or put it on mugs or caps. It can also be a great customized gift for your family, friends, and loved ones. It can also become a very good business idea. A lot of people like personalizing their things.
Whether you’re going to use it for personal or commercial purposes, transferring your art to objects will require a heat press. In this article, we’ve discussed the things you need to look out for when buying a good heat press. We have also given you lots of product recommendations for the best heat press machines on the market.
All of these products are good at what they do. At the end of the day, the best heat press will be the one that fits your needs.
Do you have other product recommendations for heat presses that we weren’t able to discuss? Tell us more in the comments below so we can add and review them!