TexPrint R and TexPrint XPHR papers are both compatible with any kind of sublimation printer, though how exactly do the two papers compare in quality? This blog post and video compares both papers printed with a Sawgrass printer, plus how they react to certain images and substrates.
Two popular choices of sublimation paper are TexPrint R and TexPrint XPHR from Beaver Paper. While both papers are stated to work best with a specific type of ink, both are safe to use on any sublimation printer kit regardless of ink type. However, their results in printing certain types of images do vary from one paper to the other. Based on our results using a Sawgrass printer with Sublijet ink, TexPrint XPHR will release more of the gas sublimation dye into the substrate than TexPrint R. As you’ll see below, we’ve prepared a few substrates applied with these papers to specifically show how each paper reacts with a certain type of vibrant image.
ChromaLuxe Photo Panel Comparison
We’ll start with the 5" by 7" ChromaLuxe aluminum photo panels, each one applied with the same photograph on each TexPrint paper. Notice how the couple in the photo appears with more natural tones on TexPrint R. While XPHR looks decent overall, the image of the couple appears slightly oversaturated.
Unisub Coaster Comparison
Next up are the 3.75" Unisub hardboard square coasters with a custom, painterly graphic. The vividness of the dark pastel really shows on TexPrint XPHR. The colors appear less vibrant on the R paper in comparison.
11oz ORCA Mug Comparison
Finally, here's a close-up comparison of two 11oz premium ORCA ceramic mugs with a wide vacation photo. It’s worth noting that the difference between TexPrint R and XPHR is a bit more apparent on mugs than on flat substrates. But as you can see, each paper offers a different level of color saturation.
Conclusion
When being used with Sawgrass and similar sublimation printers, TexPrint R will produce finished products that closely represent your original artwork, which is usually preferred for photographs. TexPrint XPHR enhances the contrast and saturation of your images, which can really make bold, colorful graphics stand out. Your preference of which TexPrint paper will ultimately depend on what type of images or graphics you print the most, and the overall look you wish to achieve.
If you’d like to learn more about sublimation paper and other transfers, visit our catalog at HeatPressNation.com. For any questions, feel free to get in touch with a MyExpert™ representative at our Contact Us/Support page, or call the phone number, (800) 215-0894.
2 comments
Teri Fullmore
So Tex-print has rebranded. What is the same as Tex-print R, it would be used in a Sawgrass printer. Thanks
Becca
What paper setting did you have the XPHR set to on the Sawgrass? There is only an option for TextPrint R, so I was wondering if you used the A Sub, TruPix setting or some thing other than TexPrint R.