Sublimation wins for full-coverage photo-quality prints on synthetic apparel and polymer-coated mugs. Full CMYK gamut, 100+ wash cycles (ink bonded to fiber). MOQ 1+, no setup.
UV print wins for hard surfaces (metal, ceramic, leather, glass, polycarbonate, plastic). Full CMYK + W (white), photo quality, scratch-resistant. MOQ 30+.
Both full-color, both MOQ-friendly. Choice is by substrate.
Substrate guide:
- Polyester sportswear → Sublimation
- Polymer-coated ceramic mug → Sublimation
- Cotton T-shirt → DTG (sublimation needs polyester)
- Stainless water bottle → UV print
- Leather portfolio → UV print or laser
- Wood (corporate gift) → UV print or laser
- Polycarbonate phone case → UV print
Cost: comparable per unit. Sublimation slightly cheaper for full-coverage; UV cheaper for small-area prints.
Wash durability: Sublimation wins (ink IS the fiber). UV is abrasion-resistant but not fully waterproof for prolonged immersion.