What Heat Press Should You Buy? What Are the Differences?

I am exploring heat presses today and letting you know which is best for your budget! I will cover the different types of heat presses and the features to look for when picking your own press out. You can also keep scrolling to see heat press models for just about any budget!
Heat Press Recommendations (affiliate links)
Heat presses under $200
TUSY 15x15 Clam Shell amzn.to/3vruMFV
Fancier Studio 15x15 Clam Shell amzn.to/3tpQ2KC
Heat presses under $500
GeoKnight Swing Away www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Siser Clam Shell www.anrdoezrs.net/links/75214...
WalaPress Drawer Clam Shell www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
GeoKnight Swing Away 12x14 www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Heat presses under $1000
WalaPress Pro Auto-Open www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Heat presses under $2000
HTW Swing Away 16x20 www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Hotronix Auto Open 16x20 www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Other videos you may like:
Heat Press versus EasyPress • Heat Press Versus Easy...
How to Use a Heat Press • How to Use a Heat Pres...
How to Use the Siser Heat Press • How to Use the Siser H...
#heatpress #sublimation #cricut
0:00 Introduction
0:24 Heat Press versus EasyPress
1:06 Types of heat presses
1:51 Differences
3:10 Press options
4:02 What size do you need
4:41 Bundles with attachments
5:29 Is a cheap press worth it?
6:33 Purchasing from Amazon
7:08 Budgeting
7:41 Brand names
10:23 Customer service

[@hugogarcia9797]

What a gem! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us, very much appreciated.

[@3PairDesigns]

Excellent and very helpful! I am just checking this form of crafting out for now, but I keep coming back to the same press, lol! Thank you!

[@jcbuttons]

Great, concise and helpful video. Thank you Angie!

[@Wendy-mx7gk]

That’s ok Angie much appreciated…..you do a great job by the way! I still learn much on your blog😊

[@Jos_craft_space]

I've just bought the 5 in 1 press, so was interested to see your latest video on that.

[@mariabennett9573]

Thank you Angie your videos are awesome. To the point, honest opinion, no getting the viewers hopes up only to fail. I really appreciate this and you’ve helped me tremendously on deciding on a heat press. The Siser sounds great hopefully a larger size will be available one day.

[@AngieHolden]

You are so welcome!

[@yolandasotolopez]

thanks for the information Angie, it really help a lot.. now to order one.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@monarnyc]

Thank you for the explanation. It has helped me decide.

[@jeaneb]

thank you for your review. i love how thorough & informative you are!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mjremy2605]

That was an informative demo, thank you! Thanks for opening them up too.

[@AngieHolden]

You bet!

[@DebLavern]

Oh I really needed this video, thank you so much. So glad I’m a new subbie.

[@AngieHolden]

Thanks for subbing!

[@mollyshelby8759]

Very informative. Really enjoy your videos!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad to hear it!

[@lynnhorne6369]

This was VERY helpful and informative. Thank you 😊

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@timstabletalk2644]

Honest review thanks

[@fahimebehnood]

Thank you so much Angie, that was a very helpful video.

[@AngieHolden]

You are so welcome!

[@deborahdececca605]

Thank you Angie I have been looking for a heat press machine you I agree 100% with customers service from heat transfer warehouse is fantastic.

[@AngieHolden]

Wonderful!

[@christarussell8775]

Very informational, thank you so much !

[@AngieHolden]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Itskimglass]

Thanks a ton! This has been super helpful, really !!

[@AngieHolden]

Great to hear!

[@lynnbrown8038]

Thank you this was sooooo helpful!

[@AngieHolden]

You're so welcome!

[@enedinahernandez9029]

I am so happy that I found this video. I bought that cheap press from Amazon and you're right no instructions lasted about 7 or 8 months and done!! So I would like a clam shell and I am a casual crafter (mostly gifts for family) but I would also like a decent press. So my question is "have you used the TUSY press?" because I think I like that one.

[@AngieHolden]

I personally have not. I would only be able to check the Amazon reviews.

[@LoveMakinMusiic]

Great video thank you for this!

[@AngieHolden]

My pleasure!

[@diannestansberry]

This was very helpful information for someone starting out. Loved your video and now a new subbie . I need all the help I can get 😅

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ClouserB]

Thank you! Good information!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@martinakinnon6902]

Very informative thanku

[@Imprettyghoul]

I got the COZ 5 in 1. I currently didn't wanna spend much as I'm new to it and I just got an expensive eco tank printer for sublimation and so thought I can always upgrade in the future if everything goes wwll

[@gonzalez78]

Thanks for the info.

[@AngieHolden]

You bet!

[@fredotufangavavlu4479]

Thanks. Very helpful

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@boniemann]

I have the swing arm, love it

[@AngieHolden]

I like them both but for different reasons! HA! Can they make one that is like both?

[@katharinewaterton7791]

Lovely, thanks

[@AngieHolden]

Our pleasure!

[@JillsComfortZone]

Thank you so much for such awesome information. I brought my heat press last year from Amazon and it's a 15x12 inch and I need me a larger size now but they are expensive.

[@AngieHolden]

Yea they all went up in price over the last month or two.

[@unique4532]

How do you like the one from Amazon ?

[@JillsComfortZone]

@@unique4532 I haven’t experienced any issues yet but if I know what I knew now I would have gotten a larger one.

[@unique4532]

What the name of your machine from Amazon?

[@lorrainegandia6331]

Hello - Thank you so much for this video. I am in the process of choosing a heat press for home projects. Well explained!!!! How did you hang the Cricut heat mats on the storage behind you? Great idea!

[@AngieHolden]

Just a command hook and I sewed a loop of ribbon on to each mat.

[@Toronto.Canada]

Thanks so much!

[@AngieHolden]

You're welcome!

[@Craftyjan]

Thanks Angie for this video! What do you think about the Starcraft 15x15 mint press? I've been eyeing this one to start out with. It's available on heat transfer warehouse as well.

[@AngieHolden]

Yes that one would definitely be a good one to start with!

[@mrsroz03]

Thanks for this!! However the link to the CO-Z isnt working 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@strayviolets]

Thank you !!

[@AngieHolden]

You're welcome!

[@DLDesignsCT]

Thanks for the info! I've been using iron-on transfers but been wanting to upgrade to a heat press.

[@DLDesignsCT]

Do you use a regular printer for your images or a cricut; with transfer sheets?

[@AngieHolden]

I have all of that. I do a variety of things!

[@user-vz7un9ly4m]

Thanks, is the temperature and Watts something to look out for?

[@nhcharmedone]

Thank you 😁

[@AngieHolden]

No problem 😊

[@josephinejacobs2159]

Thank you for this video. I originally was looking at the ones with attachments. But decided to get separate presses for shirts and tumblers. Question: have you tested a pull out heat press?

[@AngieHolden]

I have not!

[@kristinajolley5991]

Was good to hear what you said about buying from Amazon because I had been looking into presses on there. I am just starting out with sublimation printing and will only be doing a small amount of projects for myself and family. I have a very small space. Don't want to put a lot of money into it because of how little I will be doing. What would be a good press for me.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@luispatatas]

Thanks

[@faitheversole807]

This was super helpful!! Thank you! I’m wondering if most attachments are universal? If I buy a press from one source, are attachments of another brand likely to fit?

[@AngieHolden]

I wouldn't think so.

[@nikiawilson1602]

Thanks for the break down.. any advice on heat press nation?

[@AngieHolden]

They are great! Definitely a great brand!

[@nikita23yr]

Since I'm starting I got easy press as I go growing I'll buy the expensive version

[@AngieHolden]

Definitely a great way to start!

[@TheLooler7695]

I was looking into the 5 and 1 but I not looking to make hats and plates , so looking for a heat press and a good mug press for 20oz

[@mape556]

Hi Angie, thanks for this video! Question about sublimation to acrylic. I am investigating a wine rack build with a stylish pattern as a background to the wine rack. How vivid and detailed of an image can I expect? For example, I will be looking for an image that is similar to a silk scarf pattern, are printers and the pressing process going to deliver a perfect image?

[@AngieHolden]

Try this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqC9qH-ip7Opmac

[@olivia8979]

The EasyPress seems to be the right one for me. There are times that I wish it were a bit larger. But I do not have room to store a huge heat press. I want one I can tuck away. And I am not pressing tons of stuff. I still found the video interesting even though I wasn't planning on changing my press. There was a lot I didn't know.

[@AngieHolden]

I definitely love my EasyPress but I do realize some people need more!

[@CoachJM2455]

@Angie Holden Where do you plug in you heat press? Ive seen some that say it needs to be connected to a breaker. Do you just plug in a regular outlet or do you have yours connected to a breaker?

[@AngieHolden]

I wouldn't feel qualified to give you advice on the electrical. The larger the heat press, the more electricity may be required. I would definitely check with an electrician or someone that has experience with that!

[@avasmith3148]

Hello Angie. I purchased this same heat press after watching your video and I have a question about the hat press attachment. How I can press a trucker hat with getting creases on the hat? I hope that makes sense.

[@AngieHolden]

I am not sure! I didn't like the hat attachment on this one and never used it.

[@sharonrudesal414]

My husband got me a heat press from Amazon for Christmas and I can not get it pass the 170 and as you mentioned in your video no customer support. Very frustrated. Your video was very helpful now to decide which one to get once I get it returned. I do like the swing out and I do have room. In your honest opinion what is your favorite. I am just beginning and hope to start a small business. Thanks again

[@AngieHolden]

There is no way for me to try all of the presses on the market so I don't really give a brand recommendation.

[@ggavati9809]

Thanks Angie. I've been looking at the HTVRONT heat press (as the cricut one is just too expensive) but I'm concerned about the thickness. It's only 1 inch so if I wanted to sublimate a sweatshirt and put a piece of foam in between it, I don't think it would really fit between the plates. Have you tried it? Have they sent you one to review?? Thanks.

[@AngieHolden]

I have not tried it and that is the reason I won't order one. I don't see how that much clearance is enough for everything I want to make!

[@ggavati9809]

@@AngieHolden thank you 💖

[@Cricuter]

I have the 5 in 1 on the left and I actually had my mug press catch on fire! Luckily I was right there and saw it smoking right away.

[@AngieHolden]

Oh my!! I DO NOT like that mug press!

[@Poe1979]

I was wondering if there was a brand or type of heat press that can press a metal box around 2" or 5cm thick? I make guitar pedals and would like to sublimate my logo/custom designs on top of the pedal boxes. I may also use it to make swag down the line.

[@AngieHolden]

I would use a swing away for anything like that. A clamshell tends to be more uneven the thicker you get.

[@vijoshbabu8329]

What is difference between 3D Vaccum heat press?

[@gretchenmoore3485]

Can you please provide a link for the temperature probe that you would recommend to check the temperature for your heat press?

[@AngieHolden]

I am looking at some affordable options now and I hope to do a video soon.

[@adrawn11]

Hi Angie I have been a follower for over 1 1/2 and I would like to thank you for all your videos they have helped me so much, I have a question on the black heat press machine you have, I have one just liked it and I have had it for maybe 6 month I finally took it out the bric after watching your video on it and you made me feel so comfortable to be able to finally use it but I can't find anywhere where there is something that tell you the right temp for certain material so could you please help me with that, I would really appreciate your help thank you Audrey

[@AngieHolden]

The time and temperature depend on what you are pressing. They don't come with the heat press. So look up the blank you bought.

[@adrawn11]

@@AngieHolden thank you for replying .I have the same one you have and I want to do hat and cotton t shirt

[@AngieHolden]

I would look up the HTV you are using in that case and see what it says.

[@veronicaaharonov6278]

Hey ! I’m want to make photo slates which press u think I should get ? I was planning to get the sister one u think it will work out ?

[@AngieHolden]

The will work fine in that one!

[@amybomb100]

I have the fancier studios 9x12 swing away ... I can't seem to get sweatshirts to lay correct . The hood is all bunched up by swing arm .is there a trick . Or a ideal press for sweatshirts ? I had issues with a tee shirt as well it was all bunched up

[@AngieHolden]

Flip it around so the hood is out towards you.

[@3939889ISME]

Can I please ask if I do t have heat press, only have the cricut easypress. When I try to do the sublimation, if my easypress is smaller than the sublimation image, I will need to press different area in different time will this affect?

[@AngieHolden]

You can do that. It is possible but you may see some changes in your image. I have done it successfully though.

[@mikylaandres8817]

I have heard excellent things about the Tusy 15 x 15 , 5 in 1 on amazon. Do you have any thoughts?

[@AngieHolden]

I would just check the reviews but if you have heard great things it probably is pretty good!

[@meganclairerobb]

I’m wanting to get one with multiple attachments as I have a small craft area in my room which would you recommend?

[@AngieHolden]

I have a few of those linked in the description below the video. Heat Transfer Warehouse has several that are good as well.

[@drussll47]

Hi Angie I'm in my golden years and looking for a heat press. I do love my Cricut heat press but need more pressure. On your list under 200-250 there is no swing away do you have one (that if you had to) which would be best? I do have a bad shoulder. Thank you

[@AngieHolden]

I didn't find one when I was looking but you can probably find one. I would just check reviews when shopping!

[@drussll47]

@AngieHolden would you think the slideout be easier? Thank you for answering it means alot. Oh, Have you seen the one called Bosstop upgrade? It's hard with reviews when they all have the same heat issue. Thank again Angie

[@veronicaedwards6368]

hello Miss Angie have yo done a comparison for the cricut auto press vs the htvront

[@AngieHolden]

No I haven't.

[@veronicaedwards6368]

@@AngieHolden I have recently started following you and I really appreciate your clear ,concise, videos without the extra blah blah blah so many others do and I thank you

[@patriciasmith6992]

Hi i am looking for a heat press to apply interface and some transfers for labels on my quilts and transfers for logos on shirts when the customer wants a custom shirt in their quilt. I have no real budget i just want a good one i can use for years. What do you recommend.

[@AngieHolden]

You might be able to get away with an EasyPress. Have you seen this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eH6ZaKhjnsh1gKM

[@mikebridges6030]

Which heat presser & which size presser would u recommend if I am wanting to heat press bigger item of shirt item that could cover most of the shirt ?

[@AngieHolden]

Really you would need to know how big your printer can print to determine press size.

[@lisasmith6577]

Which swing away heat press for sublimation do you recommend I'm on a tight budget

[@AngieHolden]

You can start with a cheaper one and upgrade later!

[@masternoob9673]

Can any of these possibly exert 700 psi??

[@dawnsullivan6233]

What do you think of the Amazon Fancier studio h.p. Also what are the difference between the different types that I see on Amazon

[@AngieHolden]

For Amazon presses, all you can do is check the reviews. They are often made in the same factories and different brands put on them.

[@bobslfcu773]

I have an EasyPress and want to get a regular heat press, do any of them require to be bolted down? We have limited space and would have to be able to move it. The Cricut AutoPress is quite expensive.

[@AngieHolden]

You don't have to bolt them down.

[@Jesusistheonlyway549]

Which method did you use to print your shirt? Thanks.

[@AngieHolden]

I bought it at the store! Ha!

[@juliecampbell725]

What name brands are the best for beginners and that I can use my cricut vinyl with? My easy press is just not big enough for 2x and 3x shirts and other larger crafts.

[@AngieHolden]

I feel like buying from a reputable company is key. I tend to stick with a place like Heat Transfer Warehouse.

[@thinkfree8880]

I just tried my Easypress 2 for sublimation, doesn’t do well. Works good for vinyl though. Maybe mine is defective, but had it 90 days and can’t return it. Barely even used it too.

[@AngieHolden]

Mine works fine. I use it all the time.

[@kc5ohj]

When I click on the GeoKnight Swing Away (first one in the under $500 category), it takes me to a page and it is $1,525.00. ??? Is that a different one? I noticed the link says it goes to your website but it actually goes to HTW's website. :) Thank you for all you do for us crafters in helping us to make informed choices.

[@AngieHolden]

This video is several years old so some of the links may have changed as well as pricing! That brand is a great one so if you can find it on the Heat Transfer Warehouse website in your budget and with what you want, it should work great!

[@vbrown5943]

Do you have any current recommendations for a heat press?

[@AngieHolden]

I put together heatpressroadmap.com with another KZbinr to walk people through buying a press.

[@patriciashaver489]

Do you know if Siser makes one with a sliding bottom plate?

[@AngieHolden]

Not that I know of but they definitely could.

[@AdventureFamMom]

Hi! Are you planning to create one of these for 2022/2023?

[@AngieHolden]

I haven't considered making another since my advice would be the same.

[@susanneufeld4106]

Can ypou tell me if the Sisser makes attachments for it's heat press? I was unable to find any.

[@AngieHolden]

I don't think so? I haven't seen any either.

[@susanneufeld4106]

@@AngieHolden thank you, Angie

[@lorenarenero2381]

Do you suggest a specific heat press for t shirts & hoodies?

[@AngieHolden]

Not necessarily. Depends on your needs and budget.

[@saniyahcarroll4411]

I own the siser heat press never used it so far ✨

[@AngieHolden]

Break it out and use it!

[@rainbowlightwarrior1632]

Any thoughts about the StarCraft press?

[@AngieHolden]

I have not tried it! Sorry!

[@digitaldarkroom07]

Great video! However, the Siser press gets awful reviews. You have never had problems with it?

[@AngieHolden]

I have never had any issues.

[@agnesdan5125]

Am in Nigeria how do l get it an how much

[@Skll-face]

So which one out of these do you like better for sublimation shirts?? The siser one is on marketplace for sale in my city but I don’t want to waste money if you don’t care for it with shirts haha

[@AngieHolden]

I do love the Siser. I think it is a good start. You may want to go larger eventually I will say that.

[@Skll-face]

@@AngieHolden thank you!

[@casperskitty3241]

I just bought the siser heat press. Can I use it for things like coasters?

[@AngieHolden]

Yes! Definitely!

[@casperskitty3241]

@@AngieHolden Thank you!

[@kathrynwiford874]

Do you have a dedicated circuit breaker for your heat press?

[@AngieHolden]

I do not.

[@jan4suncoast]

I like the swing away because I press on wood and it heats more all over heat..

[@helenhigginbotham2413]

What do you use to press on wood. Vinyl?

[@jan4suncoast]

@@helenhigginbotham2413 yes….you can use regular vinyl or HTV on wood. I now use my mini easy press for heat transfer vinyl on wood. Works great. I Use the heat press for laminate and sublimation on wood. There on lots of videos on you tube on how to do that.

[@doreenmcmanus346]

@@jan4suncoast Hi, I’m looking into getting a heat press mainly for vinyl. But they do nor specify in the adds what they do. Is there one you recommend

[@antoniaybarra1747]

Since you don't make things to sell, what heat press would you recommend buying to use to make things to sell?

[@AngieHolden]

My advice in this video still applies.

[@112nickytaylor]

Where can we find the list of ones you recommend?

[@AngieHolden]

I have the sources linked in the description below the video. On computer, click show more. On mobile, swipe up on the video or click the arrow to expand the description.

[@opfla]

I did not see that you recommend any swing arm presses for less than $200? The cheapest I saw was about $650. I'm looking for a 5 in 1 system.

[@AngieHolden]

I just didn't find any that I would personally recommend. They may be out there but I didn't find any in my search with good reviews!

[@brittianihayward6608]

What heat press do you personally use

[@AngieHolden]

Right now I use the Siser you see in this video. I will say, however, that I don't make anything to sell. If I was using it daily and selling, I would look into other options.

[@emilyperalta6774]

What about “vevor” brand?

[@AngieHolden]

I would just check reviews carefully.

[@Abdulaziiz]

Where wrote the title?

[@andrewmcquain]

What is the best heat press for smaller cups like shot glasses?

[@AngieHolden]

I just use a convection oven for those!

[@andrewmcquain]

@@AngieHolden Thank you for the feedback! Would you say a convection oven is a better option than a multi-function heat press machine? Those seem to have a high capacity of items you can put into them. Thank you.

[@AngieHolden]

I have a mug press and a tumbler press because those are pretty standard and things I make a lot. However, I wouldn't make enough shot glasses to justify a press. In fact, I have made ONE in as long as I have been doing this. So, I use an oven for all of those odd shaped things that I really don't do a ton of. That being said, if you were going to produce a bunch of shot glasses on a regular basis, you may find that a press is more convenient and quicker. Now, you would you have find a press that handles them and I am not sure where that would be.

[@andrewmcquain]

@@AngieHolden Awesome. Thank you. I will do research. Your videos are great. Keep it up! :-)

[@jaclyngardner3080]

Which heat press do you use?

[@AngieHolden]

I have many and use a variety to give my opinions on them.

[@vivajustina]

What is your personal favorite??

[@AngieHolden]

I love my Siser as I don't have a ton of space right now.

[@fidelineoriginaletvofficie8655]

I want to start a small business, what is the good one ?

[@AngieHolden]

I would just get a quality press with a reputable name and warranty!

[@CathyElizondoArt]

Hi Angie, do you know if heat presses from heat press nation are good ones? Thank you!

[@AngieHolden]

I think they are fine!

[@CathyElizondoArt]

@@AngieHolden Thank you!

[@reesenooroa8486]

Are these nz based heat presses

[@AngieHolden]

Sources are primarily US.

[@nefspeaks1983]

Those GeoKnights listed under $500 are now $695

[@AngieHolden]

Yea they recently had a price increase. I read about it but I haven't had the time to fix anything.

[@billwill8889]

Man the prices of all these presses have went up sooooo much since this videos creation 😭

[@AngieHolden]

Yea heat presses are going up every single day!!

[@billwill8889]

So sad! I was hoping to snag on for less than 500 😬😭