In this context, “sublimation ready” usually does not mean the printer is a true dye-sublimation photo printer.

It generally means the printer can be used with compatible sublimation ink cartridges, so it can print transfer sheets that are then heat-pressed onto polyester fabric or polymer-coated items. The sublimation happens later during the heat-transfer process, when the dye turns to gas and bonds with the receiving surface.

So for a model like the Ricoh 3110DN, the term typically means:

• it uses a printhead design suitable for sublimation inks,
• it may be sold without standard ink in the lines, ready for conversion,
• and it is intended for sublimation transfer work rather than direct dye-sub photo printing.

That’s different from a dedicated dye-sub photo printer, where the printer itself performs the dye transfer process onto photo paper. So yes: it’s closer to “compatible with sublimation ink systems” than a hybrid or true dye-sub printer.