10 Best Heat Press Machines for 2024

Apr 2, 2022 | Crafting Tool Reviews, General Crafts

If you are searching for the best heat press machine, we are here to help. We have researched countless products to find the best heat press machines available. We hope that our detailed list of reviews will help you make the right choice.

The best heat press machines produce remarkable imprints. What once cost an astonishing amount of money can now be purchased at a reasonable cost.

The old machines were not only expensive, they were also hard to use. With all the latest technological advancements, the best heat press machines are now affordable, portable, and for home use.

BEST HEAT PRESS MACHINE

Even the everyday crafter can have the best heat press machine. Long gone are the days of heat transfers with an iron. The heat press makes the job quick and fun. And these affordable machines are not only for home crafts and gifts. They are starting a small revolution for the entrepreneur.

Our Top 3 Picks for the Best Heat Press Machines are:

Overall Best Heat Press Machine

VEVOR Heat Press Heat Press Machine

The versatility puts the Vevor Heat Press at the top of our list. You can create countless projects with ease.

Premium Choice

PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Heat Press Machine

The PowerPress Heat Press is a popular machine that provides great results. The large Teflon coated pressure area makes using and cleaning this machine a breeze.

Great Value

Aonesy Heat Press Machine

For home use, you cannot beat the Aonesy Heat Press Machine. It is lightweight, easy to use and inexpensive.

What is a Heat Press Machine and How Does it Work?

A heat press machine is a tool that can transfer words or a graphic design on to material or a hard surface. It is an easy way to add artwork and logos onto T-shirts and other objects.

best heat press machine

 The heat press works by using heat. The metal surfaces, also known as platen, are heated to a set temperature. The temperature is determined by the type of material you are using. Once it is heated up and ready to use, you apply pressure for a certain period of time.

 Some of the best heat press machines give you the ability to customize:

  • Clothing
  • Hats
  • Metal
  • Wood
  • Mouse pads
  • Tote bags
  • Cups
  • Mugs
  • Glass
  • Ceramics
  • Etc…

Do You Need a Heat Press Machine?

A common question we often come across is, “Do I need a heat press machine.”

 Here are some common reasons why you may want to invest in a heat press:

  • Sell your creations
  • Personalize a lot of crafts for family and friends
  • Hate the aggravation of iron transfers
  • Want your transfers to look professional
  • Just because you want one

Benefits of Using a Heat Press Instead of an Iron

Benefits of Using a Heat Press

Some crafters are happy with their iron transfers. While others hate to use an iron. They may be lighter, but they are not as precise as a heat press.

Benefits of using a heat press machine include:

  • Large Pressing Areas

An iron has a small pressing area. This means you can only do small transfers, or you can do large transfers in stages.

  •  Pressure

Having the correct pressure is important. Using the right pressure will make your design last for years. When using an iron, you must guess at the amount of pressure you are applying. An iron also has holes. This means that the pressure is not being applied in these areas.

  • Ironing Machines Easily Damage

Irons were designed to move back and forth over a garment. Leaving an iron in one place too long can easily cause damage.

  •  The Best Heat Press Machines Have Timers

Timing is critical when using a heat press. The best heat press machines have digital timers. Having a built-in timer allows you to get the exact timing.

  •  Exact Temperature Controls

Heat press machine can be set to an exact temperature. Most household irons do not show a temperature. You can only guess at the temperature with a turn of a dial. 

  •  Transfers Will Last Longer

When a transfer has been made with the correct temperature, pressure and timing the transfer will last longer and look more professional.

 

What to look for in the Best Heat Press Machines

What to look for in the Best Heat Press Machines

The heat press industry has exploded in recent years. There are countless machines to choose from. When searching for the best heat press machine, look for:

  •  Durability

Not all machines are made the same. Look for a heat press machine that is durable.

  •  Opens and Closes Easily

A good machine will open and close with a smooth fluid motion.

  •  Digital Timer

Timing is critical when using a heat press machine. Make sure that the model you choose has a built-in digital timer.

  •  Provides Even Pressure

Even pressure is important for getting a professional transfer. The best heat press machines have a floating heat platen with centralized pressure adjustment.

  •  Even Heat Distribution

Cheaper heat press machines often have issues with heat distribution. Higher-end machines have more heating element which allows for even heat distribution.

  •  Precise Temperature

For a professional-looking transfer, the heat press machine must provide a precise temperature. Too little heat and the adhesive may not hold. Too much heat may cause smearing and fading.

  •  Is Easy to Use

Buy a machine that you will not have to fight with. The machine should be easy to use. You need to be able to easily position your item inside the machine for precision placement.

  •  Will be Able to Handle Your Workload

You will want a heat press machine that can handle your workload. If you are only producing an item or two at a time, you will not need the machine to retain temperature for long periods.

However, if you are producing high volumes of products, you will need a machine that does keep a consistent temperature for long periods of time.

  •  Your Workspace

Make sure that the heat press that you purchase will fit in your workspace. The best heat press machines can get bulky and take up a lot of room.

  •  Warranty

Pay close attention to the warranty. Several heat press manufacturers offer a lifetime guarantee on the heat platens.

10 Best Heat Press Machines for 2024

1. PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Heat Press Machine

PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Heat Press Machine

 

A popular and affordable heat press machine is the Power Press Heat Press. It is a clamshell type machine that is digital.

 

Why We Like the Power Press Heat Machine:

The LCD screen makes it easy to set the temperature and timing of this machine. The heat is dispersed evenly, and the finished product is professional.

  •  LCD Screen

It is easy to set the time and temperature on this machine.

  • 15” x 15”

        The Power Press Heat Press is large allowing for bigger projects.

  • Teflon Coated Plate

The Teflon coated plate allows for easy cleanup.

Pros and Cons of the Power Press Machine:

 Pros:

  • Large pressing area
  • LCD control board
  • Heats up fast
  • Teflon coated plate
  • Individual safety control chip
  • Temperature from 0-455F
  • Timer from 0-999 seconds
  • Adjustable pressure

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Needs a 20 amp circuit
  • Directions are confusing

Get the Best Price Here!

2. Pro Combo 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine, Multifunction Heat Transfer Press Machine

Pro Combo 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine

An extremely easy to use heat press machine is the F2C 5 in 1 Pro Heat Press. It is versatile and gives you the ability to create bags, shirts, mugs, hats, mouse pads and more.

Why We Like Pro Combo 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine:

This heat press machine comes with a hat press, a mug press and a large 12” x 15” pressing area. The possibilities are endless.

  •  Steel Frame

This heavy-duty machine has a steel frame. This ensures that the heat press machine stands up to a lot of use.

  • Digital Time and Temperature

The digital control is easy to use.

  • Full 360-degree Swing Away Arm

Having a 360-degree swing arm allows you to move the heating top plate to be moved aside. This helps to reduce the risk of burns.

 

Pros and Cons of the Pro Combo 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine:

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty design
  • Digital time and temperature
  •  Full 360-degree swing away arm
  • Non-stick surface
  • 12” x 15” pressing area
  • Versatile
  • 32 – 430 F temperature range
  • 0 – 999 second time range

Cons:

  • Learning curve
  • Swing arm requires a larger workspace

Get the Best Price Here!

3. Transfer Crafts T-Shirt Heat Press & Digital Sublimation Machine (9 x 12)

Transfer Crafts T-Shirt Heat Press & Digital Sublimation Machine

 

Assembly of a new toy is never fun. The Transfer Crafts T-Shirt Heat Press comes fully assembled and ready to use.

 

Why We Like the Transfer Crafts T-Shirt Heat Press Machine:

The heat press machine is ideal for small businesses as well as home use. It is large yet does not weigh as much as some other comparable styles. The heat plate is coated in Teflon which makes clean up a breeze.

  •  Light Commercial Use

This inexpensive heat press machine can stand up to light commercial use.

  • Digital Display

The timer and temperature are easily controlled with the digital display.

  • Easily Adjustable Pressure

The pressure can be easily adjusted from the top.

Pros and Cons of the Transfer Crafts T-Shirt Heat Press Machine:

 Pros:

  • Comes assembled.
  • For home and light commercial use
  • Extremely affordable
  • Digital display
  • Easily adjustable pressure
  • Easy to follow instructions

Cons:

  • Alignment issues

Get the Best Price Here!

4. Cricut Easy Press 2 – Heat Press Machine For T Shirts and HTV Vinyl Projects

Cricut Easy Press 2 - Heat Press Machine

The Cricut Easy Press 2 Heat Press is a modern twist on the heat press. It is one of the best heat press machines that is easy to use, portable and affordable.

 

Why We Like the Cricut Easy Press 2 Heat Press: 

It is different than most heat press on the market today. It is user-friendly and compact. The heat press can easily be mastered by all skill levels. 

  •  Fast Heat-up Time

Most heat press machines take around 10 to 15 minutes to heat up. The Cricut Easy Press 2 heats up in as little as 3 minutes.

  • Safer Than Other Machines

The design of this machine makes it safer for users. It is not as easy to burn yourself. This makes it better for beginners as well as supervised children.

  • Easy to Use

There is a minimal learning curve.

Pros and Cons of the Cricut Easy Press 2 Heat Press: 

Pros:

  • Heats up fast
  • Less of a chance to get burned
  • Easy to use
  • Inexpensive
  • Great for beginners
  • Easy to store
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Small pressing area
  • Manual pressure application
  • Designed for beginners

Get the Best Price Here!

5. Aonesy Heat Press Machine 

Aonesy Heat Press Machine 

One of the best heat press machines for beginners is the Aonesy Heat Press. It is comparable to the Cricut Easy Press 2 yet is cheaper.

 

Why We Like the Aonesy Heat Press:

It is easy to use and portable. The safety features make it a good choice for households with children.

  • Large Surface

For a light handheld heat press machine, it has a large surface. The 12” x 10” surface gives you the ability to work with larger patterns.

  •  Automatic Shut Off

One safety feature is the automatic shut-off. This feature stops the heat press machine from overheating. It is also a great feature for those that have kids. It is easy to walk away from a project for what you think will be a minute. To remember hours later that you left the machine on.

  • Heats Quickly

When you are working on a project, you do not want to have to wait for your tools to be ready. This little heat press machine can heat up in under 5 minutes.

 

Pros and Cons of the Aonesy Heat Press:

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Large pressing area for a small machine
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Heats quickly
  • Programmable time and temperature
  • Heats evenly
  • Ceramic-coated plate
  • Great for home use

Cons:

  • Manual pressure application
  • Designed for beginners

Get the Best Price Here!

6. NURXIOVO Heat Press, 12×15 in 360 Degree Swing Away Commercial Heat Transfer Machine

 

NURXIOVO Heat Press

The NURXIOVO Heat Press is one of the best heat press machines for commercial use and home use.

 

Why We Like the NURXIOVO Heat Press:

A 360 degree swing makes it safer to remove your project from the heat press. You will have more room without worrying about touching the top plate. Being commercial grade, you can produce several products without temperature issues.

  •  Strong Pressing Handrail

The handrail feels very sturdy.

  • Swing Away Design

There is less of a chance of getting burned with a 360 degree swing away machine.

  • Large Pressing Area

The 12” x 15” pressing is large enough to handle most designs.

 

Pros and Cons of the NURXIOVO Heat Press:

Pros:

  • Large pressing area
  • Strong and sturdy handrail
  •  Swing away design
  • For home and commercial use
  • Adjustable pressure regulator
  • LCD control board
  • Ant-overheating feature

Cons:

  • Can be difficult for beginners

Get the Best Price Here!

7. VEVOR Heat Press 12X15 Inch Heat Press Machine

VEVOR Heat Press 12X15 Inch Heat Press Machine

 

This heat press machine allows you to work with all types of items. Not only can you do t-shirts, but you can also press tote bags, mugs, ball caps, mugs, glasses, ceramics and more!

 

Why We Like the VEVOR Heat Press:

This 6-in-1 heat press machine is extremely versatile. The swing away design makes it easy to use and the heavy duty steel frame will make it last.

  •  Versatile

You can let your creativity flow with all the additional functions.

  • Heavy Duty Frame

A heavy duty frame allows the machine to stay in place and last longer

  • Detachable Plate

The detachable plate makes it easy to use the other accessories.

 

Pros and Cons of the VEVOR Heat Press:

Pros:

  • Preassembled
  • Heavy duty frame
  • Adjustable pressure knob
  • Multifunction machine
  • Swing away design
  • Digital timer and temperature
  • Large 12” x 15” surface
  • Uniform pressure distribution

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come with spare parts for swapping accessories

Get the Best Price Here!

8. TUSY Heat Press Machine

TUSY Heat Press Machine

 

With a sublimation heat press, the ink becomes part of the fabric. A normal heat press adds a layer to the fabric.

 

Why We Like the TUSY Heat Press Machine:

The TUSY Heat Press produces a professional result. The sublimation process produces graphics that are clear and vibrant.

  •  Vibrant Transfers

When used on light coloured fabrics that transfers are bright and colorful.

  •  Durable

Transfers made with the sublimation process are durable. Transfers that are done with a regular heat press machine are prone to cracking.

  • Ease of Use

This machine is easy to use with very little learning curve. Put the fabric on the panel, place the transfer paper face down and lower the handle. When the alarm buzzes, the transfer is complete.

 

Pros and Cons of the TUSY Heat Press Machine:

Pros:

  • Large 15” x 15” surface
  • LCD Control Board
  • Pressure adjustable
  • Anti-overheating feature
  • Clear and vibrant transfers
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Requires special ink
  • Works best on light fabrics

Get the Best Price Here!

9. Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine Combo 360-degree Rotation

Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine

Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 Heat Press comes with 1 platen press, 1 hat press, 1 mug press and 2 plate presses. If you purchase this heat press machine you can create all types of products.

 

Why We Like the Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 Heat Press:

The more versatile the better. The Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 heat press can handle all types of products. Remove the top plate by loosening the screws and attach the needed accessory.

  •  Multifunction Machine

The accessories that come with this machine give you the ability to customize all types of items.

  • Heavy Duty

This heat press machine is industrial strength. It should last for quite a while.

  • Swing Away Design

Being able to move the hot plate away from you makes it easier to remove your project.

 

Pros and Cons of the Smartxchoices Pro 5 in 1 Heat Press:

Pros:

  • Digital LCD control board
  • Adjustable multi-spring pressure knob
  • Multifunction machine
  • LCD control board
  • Built-in structural support
  • Full 360 degree swing away design
  • Industrial strength

Cons:

  • Mugs can be difficult
  • Replacing the accessories can be time-consuming

Get the Best Price Here!

10. Bettersub Print T-Shirt Machine DIY Digital Industrial Quality Heat Press Machine

Bettersub Print T-Shirt Machine DIY Digital Industrial Quality Heat Press Machine

If you are wanting an industrial quality heat press for mass production, this machine is ideal. There are no fancy accessories or complicated settings.  

 

Why We Like the Bettersub Heat Press Machine:

This machine was designed for mass production, and it delivers. It is easy to use, and has a large 15” x 15” surface.

  •  Opens Wide

We prefer the swing away design for safety reasons, but this clamshell heat press machine opens wide.

  • Large Surface

The 15” x 15” pressing area allows you to transfer large designs.

  •  Teflon Surface

Having a Teflon surface makes this machine easy to clean.

 

Pros and Cons of the Bettersub Heat Press Machine:

Pros:

  • Opens wide
  • Industrial
  • Easy to use
  • 15” x 15” surface
  • Teflon surface
  • Uses solid-state relays
  • LCD control board
  • Temperature can reach 480 degrees

Cons:

  • Can only handle flat items
  • Extremely heavy

 Get the Best Price Here!

 

Our Top 3 Picks for the Best Heat Press Machines for 2024

Overall Best Heat Press Machine

VEVOR Heat Press Heat Press Machine

The versatility puts the Vevor Heat Press at the top of our list. You can create countless projects with ease.

Premium Choice

PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Heat Press Machine

The PowerPress Heat Press is a popular machine that provides great results. The large Teflon coated pressure area makes using and cleaning this machine a breeze.

Great Value

Aonesy Heat Press Machine

For home use, you cannot beat the Aonesy Heat Press Machine. It is lightweight, easy to use and inexpensive.

Turn your designs into custom t-shirts and accessories with the best heat press machine. 

If you already use an iron for heat transfers or are new to the craft, a heat press machine can make the job quick and easy. We hope our list of best heat press machines will help you find the best heat press machine for your personal needs.

For more crafting projects, you might want to check our Backpack Sewing Patterns  or our  Yellow Brick Road Quilt Patterns

We hope you find this best heat press machine review helpful in finding the product that is right for you.

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