Heat Press Machine Buying Guide

Choosing the right heat press for your projects, space, and budget is important but we know the choices can be overwhelming. Here, we’ll break down some of the biggest things to know and think about when shopping for a heat press, including the types and sizes, temperature and pressure, and critical features.

Types of Heat Presses

The first thing to consider is the type of heat press you need. There are four main form factors: clamshell, swing-away, handheld, and specialty presses.

1. Clamshell Heat Presses :
   • Description: The most common type features a hinged top plate that presses down like a clamshell.
   • Advantages: Even pressure and heat application, compact design.
   • Disadvantages: Limited workspace under the top plate.
2. Swing-Away Heat Presses :
   • Description: A movable top plate that swings to the side.
   • Advantages: Easier access to the work area.
   • Disadvantages: Requires more space for the top plate to swing away.
3. Handheld Heat Presses:
   • Description: Portable and used when your item will not fit on a press or for touch-up
   • Advantages: Convenient size and storage.
   • Disadvantages: Not suitable for full graphic pressing.
4. Mug Press :
   • Description: Designed for specific drinkware or mugs
   • Advantages: Tailored for Drinkware
   • Disadvantages: Can only be used for drinkware
5. Cap Press :
   • Description: Designed for headwear/caps and small press areas like sleeves or tags
   • Advantages: Tailored for Head Wear and Tags quick to heat up
   • Disadvantages: Limited on the size you can press

Heat Press Sizes

Consider the size of the designs you want to create and the available space.

1. Smaller Craft Heat Presses (9" x 12"):
   • Advantages: Budget-friendly, compact, suitable for small projects.
   • Disadvantages: Limited to smaller designs.
2. Mid-Large Sized Heat Presses (15" x 15" to 16" x 20"):
   • Advantages: Versatile, larger pressing area, more features.
   • Disadvantages: Larger footprint, more suited for small businesses or high-volume use.
3. Wide Format Heat Presses:
   • Description: Large, commercial-grade presses.
   • Advantages: Ideal for large projects like banners and flags and full all over sublimation
   • Disadvantages: Higher priced and take a large footprint

Temperature, Pressure & Auto-Open Timers

Ensuring the right temperature, pressure, and timing is crucial for high-quality transfers.

1. Pressure Application:
   • Importance: Essential for proper adhesion of HTV and transfers.
   • Features: Adjustable pressure knobs for consistent application.
2. Digital Temperature Controls:
   • Importance: Ensures accurate and consistent temperature.
   • Availability: Standard on most modern heat presses.
3. Auto-Open Timers:
   • Description: Automatically releases the top plate after the set pressing time.
   • Advantages: Convenient, allows multitasking, prevents over-pressing.

Other Features, Materials Quality & Durability

Consider the build quality and additional features when choosing a heat press.

1. Quality Heating Elements:
   • Importance: Ensures consistent heating and prevents cool spots.
   • Features: High-quality coiling for better heat distribution.
2. Build Material & Wear:
   • Importance: Durability and longevity of the machine.
   • Recommendations: Steel or aluminum bodies, hydraulic systems over springs.
3. Threadable Lower Platens:
   • Description: Allows pressing on one side of a garment.
   • Advantages: Useful for specific applications like sublimation.