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For photographers and artists seeking to showcase their work in its full glory, nothing beats the impact of a large-format print. However, achieving gallery-quality results requires the right equipment.
The market for best wide format photo printers offers a diverse range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Navigating this landscape can be challenging, demanding careful consideration of factors such as ink technology, print resolution, and media handling.
Choosing the best wide format photo printers is a significant investment, making it crucial to prioritize both performance and value. This review article aims to simplify the selection process, guiding you through the key considerations to ensure you choose a printer that meets your specific needs and budget.
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IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Wide Format Photo Printers Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner
- Significant cost savings on printing compared to traditional ink cartridges.
- High-quality photo and document printing with vibrant colors and sharp text.
- Versatile media support, including borderless printing and specialty media.
- Convenient mobile printing and user-friendly interface with touch display.
4.5/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer
- Excellent photo quality with a wide color gamut.
- Supports borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″.
- Compact design compared to previous models.
- Includes a rear tray for specialty media.
4.5/5
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� BEST VALUE HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Fast color and black printing speeds.
- Wide-format printing with accurate color reproduction (P3 technology).
- Automatic 2-sided printing and document feeder enhance efficiency.
- Reliable dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app integration.
4.8/5
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HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-inch Plotter Printer
- Supports large format printing up to 24 inches wide.
- Cost-effective with reduced ink usage and automated features.
- Includes HP Click software for simplified printing workflow.
- Offers multiple connectivity options (Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi).
4.7/5
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Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13″ Wireless Inkjet Photo Printer with 3.0″ Color LCD Monitor
- Vibrant, high-quality prints due to 8-color dye-based ink system.
- Compact design saves space.
- Borderless printing from 3.5″ x 3.5″ up to 13″ x 19″.
- Relatively fast printing speeds.
4.4/5
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Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print 13″ x 19″
- Wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″.
- High-speed printing with PrecisionCore technology.
- Automatic 2-sided printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.
- Convenient wireless connectivity options.
4.5/5
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Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24″ – Large Format Printer
- High-quality 4-color printing.
- Generous ink supply included (280ml total).
- Supports roll and sheet media, including automatic sheet feeder.
- User-friendly setup with touchscreen and animated guides.
4.6/5
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Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier
- Prints high-quality, borderless photos up to 11″ x 17″.
- Fast printing speeds, especially for smaller photos.
- Supports specialty media and direct CD/DVD printing.
- Easy to use with touchscreen display and mobile connectivity.
4.6/5
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Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: 17” Professional Wire
- Wide color gamut and excellent image clarity thanks to the LUCIA PRO II ink system.
- Comprehensive software suite for professional print and layout management.
- Anti-clogging technology and air feeding system ensure reliable printing.
- Large ink tanks (80mL) minimize the frequency of replacements.
4.4/5
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HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer
- Supports large format printing up to 36 inches.
- Versatile media handling with roll and sheet feed options.
- Multiple connectivity options including Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
- HP Click software simplifies printing and offers error checking.
4.4/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Wide Format Photo Printers
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner – Significant cost savings on printing compared to traditional ink cartridges.
The Epson EcoTank photo printer aims to provide a cost-effective and high-quality solution for photo printing and creative projects. The cartridge-free system, using high-yield ink bottles, promises significant savings compared to traditional ink cartridges. It boasts lab-quality photo output thanks to its high-accuracy printhead and 6-color inks, with print speeds of 15 seconds for a 4×6 photo.
The printer supports a wide range of media, including borderless photos up to 13×19 inches and specialty media up to 1.3mm thick. Its features include automatic 2-sided printing, mobile printing via the Epson Smart Panel app, a 4.3″ touch display, and voice-activated printing. The printer also comes with a 2-year limited warranty upon registration.
A potential drawback could be the initial investment cost of the printer itself.
Pros
- Significant cost savings on printing compared to traditional ink cartridges.
- High-quality photo and document printing with vibrant colors and sharp text.
- Versatile media support, including borderless printing and specialty media.
- Convenient mobile printing and user-friendly interface with touch display.
- Large ink capacity reduces the need for frequent refills.
- 2-year limited warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons
- Potential damage from using non-genuine ink could void the warranty.
- Initial investment cost might be higher compared to cartridge-based printers.
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer – Excellent photo quality with a wide color gamut.
The Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is a compact, wide-format printer designed for high-quality photo printing up to 13″ x 19″. It uses a 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system, including red and gray inks, to achieve a wide color gamut and improved black and white prints. The printer features a 50-sheet rear tray for specialty media like cardstock and a 200-sheet front tray for standard paper.
Automatic 2-sided printing is a convenient feature. The printer also offers Dash Replenishment, which automatically orders ink when you’re running low. The initial setup includes a full set of ink cartridges.
While it boasts professional-grade print quality, be mindful of the reliance on genuine Epson ink for optimal performance and warranty coverage.
Pros
- Excellent photo quality with a wide color gamut.
- Supports borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″.
- Compact design compared to previous models.
- Includes a rear tray for specialty media.
- Automatic 2-sided printing capability.
- Dash Replenishment for automatic ink ordering.
Cons
- Requires genuine Epson ink for optimal performance and warranty.
- Potential cost of replacement inks.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer – Fast color and black printing speeds.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e is a wide-format printer aimed at office environments requiring accurate color reproduction for documents like floorplans and spreadsheets. It boasts print speeds of up to 22 ppm for black and 18 ppm for color, along with features like auto 2-sided printing, a document feeder, and two 250-sheet trays. The printer emphasizes vibrant, screen-accurate colors using P3 technology.
Connectivity is enhanced with dual-band Wi-Fi and smartphone app integration for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. HP+ offers 3 months of included ink with subscription. Security is addressed with HP Wolf Pro Security, and user experience is improved with a 4.3-inch touchscreen.
The printer incorporates over 30% recycled plastic in its design. Note that it only supports cartridges with HP chips.
Pros
- Fast color and black printing speeds.
- Wide-format printing with accurate color reproduction (P3 technology).
- Automatic 2-sided printing and document feeder enhance efficiency.
- Reliable dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app integration.
- Built-in security features (HP Wolf Pro Security).
Cons
- Only compatible with cartridges using HP chips, potentially limiting options.
- After the initial 3 months, HP+ requires a paid subscription for Instant Ink.
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-inch Plotter Printer – Supports large format printing up to 24 inches wide.
The HP DesignJet T200 series printer is marketed towards users needing precise and accurate large format prints, particularly for technical drawings, renders, posters, and maps. It supports media up to 24 inches wide via rolls and up to 13×19 inch sheets with an optional accessory. The printer offers flexible media handling with sheet feed, roll feed, and an automatic cutter.
HP emphasizes cost-effectiveness with features like reduced ink usage for maintenance and automated multi-size printing. The included HP Click software streamlines the printing process with error checking, auto-nesting, and drag-and-drop printing functionality. Connectivity options include Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi.
It also boasts fast print speeds and compatibility with HP 712 ink cartridges. A one-year limited hardware warranty and support are included.
Pros
- Supports large format printing up to 24 inches wide.
- Cost-effective with reduced ink usage and automated features.
- Includes HP Click software for simplified printing workflow.
- Offers multiple connectivity options (Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi).
- Relatively fast print speeds for its class.
Cons
- Uses USB 2.0 which is not the fastest available, potentially impacting file transfer speeds with larger files.
- One-year limited hardware warranty could be considered short for professional environments.
Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13″ Wireless Inkjet Photo Printer with 3.0″ Color LCD Monitor – Vibrant, high-quality prints due to 8-color dye-based ink system.
This printer offers a dye-based ink system promising vibrant and high-quality prints, which is a significant selling point for photographers and designers. The compact design is a welcome feature for those with limited space. Borderless printing capabilities, ranging from small squares to larger 13” x 19” sizes, provide flexibility for various printing needs.
The stated print speeds seem reasonably fast, especially for larger A3+ prints. The inclusion of a 3.0” color LCD monitor is convenient for monitoring ink levels and printer status. However, potential buyers should research the cost and availability of replacement ink cartridges, as dye-based inks can sometimes be expensive.
Overall, this printer seems well-suited for home or studio use where print quality and space-saving design are important.
Pros
- Vibrant, high-quality prints due to 8-color dye-based ink system.
- Compact design saves space.
- Borderless printing from 3.5″ x 3.5″ up to 13″ x 19″.
- Relatively fast printing speeds.
- 3.0″ color LCD monitor for easy status monitoring.
Cons
- Dye-based ink can be expensive and require frequent replacement.
- Limited to printing only. No scan or copy features included.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print 13″ x 19″ – Wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″.
The Epson printer offers wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″, making it suitable for various projects requiring larger paper sizes. It boasts high-speed printing with PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology, delivering decent speeds for both black and color documents. The printer also provides high-precision printing with DURABrite Ultra pigment inks, ensuring professional-quality output.
The inclusion of automatic 2-sided printing, copying, scanning, and faxing, along with a 50-sheet ADF, increases its versatility. With a 250-sheet paper capacity and a user-friendly 4.3″ color touchscreen, the printer aims to maximize efficiency and ease of use. Wireless connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enhance convenience.
However, it is important to note the printer’s compatibility is exclusive to Epson Genuine Cartridges.
Pros
- Wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″.
- High-speed printing with PrecisionCore technology.
- Automatic 2-sided printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.
- Convenient wireless connectivity options.
- User-friendly 4.3″ color touchscreen.
- Large 250-sheet paper capacity.
Cons
- Exclusively compatible with Epson Genuine Cartridges.
- Print quality can vary based on paper quality.
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24″ – Large Format Printer – High-quality 4-color printing.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 is a 24-inch desktop roll printer designed for producing quality prints on various media types. It features a 4-color ink system promising sharp text and vibrant images. A key selling point is the inclusion of a full set of ink (280ml total), a substantial amount for this printer class.
The printer supports both roll and sheet media, with an automatic sheet feeder for added convenience. Setup is designed to be user-friendly with a tiltable touchscreen and animated guides. Connectivity options include USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, enabling both wired and wireless printing.
Furthermore, the printer boasts an ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Gold rating, suggesting energy efficiency. Overall, the TC-21 seems well-suited for users needing a versatile printer capable of producing detailed prints in a variety of formats.
Pros
- High-quality 4-color printing.
- Generous ink supply included (280ml total).
- Supports roll and sheet media, including automatic sheet feeder.
- User-friendly setup with touchscreen and animated guides.
- Versatile connectivity options: USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi.
- Energy Star and EPEAT Gold certified.
Cons
- Limited to 4-color printing, which might not be ideal for professional-grade photo printing requiring a wider color gamut.
- 24-inch width might be limiting for users needing larger format prints.
Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier – Prints high-quality, borderless photos up to 11″ x 17″.
The Epson photo all-in-one printer offers a range of features for photo enthusiasts and home users. It boasts borderless photo printing up to 11″ x 17″ with 6-color Claria Photo HD inks, aiming for smooth color gradations. Print speeds are notably quick, especially for 4″ x 6″ photos.
The printer accommodates specialty media through a rear paper feed and allows for direct printing onto CDs/DVDs. Its design includes a fold-over scan lid and a 4.3″ touchscreen for easy PC-free operation. Wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi Direct, facilitates printing from various mobile devices.
Voice-activated printing adds another layer of convenience. The printer also provides basic photo editing tools and scan-to-cloud functionality. However, it’s important to use genuine Epson cartridges to avoid potential warranty issues.
Pros
- Prints high-quality, borderless photos up to 11″ x 17″.
- Fast printing speeds, especially for smaller photos.
- Supports specialty media and direct CD/DVD printing.
- Easy to use with touchscreen display and mobile connectivity.
- Voice-activated printing provides added convenience.
- Offers scan-to-cloud functionality.
Cons
- Relies on genuine Epson ink cartridges, potentially limiting options and increasing costs.
- Although the product description contains multiple features, the user needs to research compatibility with specific devices.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: 17” Professional Wire – Wide color gamut and excellent image clarity thanks to the LUCIA PRO II ink system.
The Canon PRO-1100 is a professional-grade printer designed for photographers and artists seeking high-quality prints. Its 11-pigment ink system, combined with Chroma Optimizer, aims to deliver a wide color gamut, improved gloss uniformity, and reduced bronzing. The printer’s software suite offers robust tools for layout and color management, integrating seamlessly with popular photo editing software.
Anti-clogging technology and an air feeding system contribute to consistent print quality. The LUCIA PRO II ink system promises enhanced scratch resistance. The large ink tanks (80ml each) are a plus for high-volume printing.
Overall, this printer seems well-equipped for demanding print needs, but it’s essential to consider the cost of replacement ink and whether the advanced features justify the investment for all users.
Pros
- Wide color gamut and excellent image clarity thanks to the LUCIA PRO II ink system.
- Comprehensive software suite for professional print and layout management.
- Anti-clogging technology and air feeding system ensure reliable printing.
- Large ink tanks (80mL) minimize the frequency of replacements.
- Chroma Optimizer enhances glossiness and expands color range.
- 1-year warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons
- High initial investment and ongoing ink costs may be significant.
- The advanced features might be overkill for casual users.
HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer – Supports large format printing up to 36 inches.
The HP printer targets professionals needing large format printing for technical drawings, renders, posters, and maps. It accommodates media up to 36 inches wide on rolls and 13×19 inch sheets using the auto sheet feeder. Media handling includes sheet, roll feed, and an automatic cutter.
Connectivity options are Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi. The included HP Click software aims to simplify printing by predefining settings and offering PDF error checking and auto-nesting. It supports various file formats (PDF, JPEG, TIFF, DWF, HP-GL/2, PNG) and integrates with CAD applications.
While it seems well-suited for its target audience, performance and print quality depend on factors not explicitly detailed in this description such as ink quality and print resolution.
Pros
- Supports large format printing up to 36 inches.
- Versatile media handling with roll and sheet feed options.
- Multiple connectivity options including Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
- HP Click software simplifies printing and offers error checking.
- Supports a variety of file formats commonly used in design and CAD.
- Automatic cutter for convenient finishing.
Cons
- USB 2.0 is somewhat dated compared to USB 3.0 or higher.
- Print quality relies heavily on factors not detailed in the description (resolution, ink type, etc.).
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Wide Format Photo Printers
Understanding Wide Format Photo Printers
Wide format photo printers are capable of printing images larger than standard sizes, typically exceeding 8.5 x 11 inches. These printers cater to photographers, graphic designers, artists, and businesses needing larger prints for display, marketing, or artistic purposes. When choosing the best wide format photo printer, consider factors like print quality, ink type, paper handling, connectivity, and overall cost of ownership. The best wide format printers will offer a balance of these factors to meet your specific needs.
Key Features to Consider
Print Quality: Resolution (DPI) and color gamut are crucial. Look for high DPI for sharp details and a wide color gamut for accurate color reproduction. Ink type (dye-based vs. pigment-based) affects longevity and water resistance. Dye-based inks offer vibrant colors but are less fade-resistant, while pigment-based inks are more archival.
Ink System: Consider the cost per print. Some printers use individual ink cartridges, while others use bulk ink tanks (supertanks) which can significantly reduce running costs.
Media Handling: Check the types of paper supported (glossy, matte, canvas, etc.) and the maximum paper size. Borderless printing is a desirable feature for photos.
Connectivity: Ensure the printer offers the necessary connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB) for your workflow. Mobile printing capabilities are also convenient.
Speed: Printing speed is important if you need to produce a high volume of prints.
Cost of Ownership: Factor in the initial purchase price, ink costs, and maintenance.
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
Identify your primary use case. Are you printing primarily photos for personal use, professional prints for sale, or large-format posters? This will help you prioritize the features that are most important. For professional photographers, color accuracy and archival quality are paramount. For casual users, ease of use and affordability may be more important. This guide aims to help you pick the best wide format photo printer.
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life of your wide format photo printer. This includes cleaning print heads, using high-quality paper, and storing ink cartridges properly. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance will help ensure optimal print quality and prevent costly repairs. With proper care, your wide format photo printer will provide years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Wide Format Photo Printers
What is the difference between dye-based and pigment-based inks?
Dye-based inks produce more vibrant and saturated colors, making them excellent for photos. However, they are more prone to fading over time, especially when exposed to light or moisture. Pigment-based inks, on the other hand, offer superior fade resistance and archival qualities. They are ideal for prints that need to last for many years, such as fine art prints or important documents. While pigment inks might not have the same level of vibrancy as dye inks, advancements in technology have narrowed the gap.
What DPI (dots per inch) should I look for in a wide format photo printer?
A higher DPI generally results in sharper and more detailed prints. For photo printing, a minimum of 300 DPI is recommended. Some of the best wide format photo printers offer resolutions of 4800 x 2400 DPI or higher, which can produce stunningly detailed images. However, the actual perceived resolution also depends on the quality of the print head and the ink being used. Consider the viewing distance of your prints; prints viewed from a distance may not require as high a DPI.
What is borderless printing and why is it important?
Borderless printing allows you to print images without a white border around the edges. This is particularly desirable for photos as it creates a more professional and polished look. It’s also useful for creating posters and other large-format prints that need to fill the entire page. Most of the best wide format photo printers support borderless printing on various paper sizes. Check the printer specifications to ensure it supports borderless printing on the sizes you need.
What types of media can a wide format photo printer handle?
Wide format photo printers can handle a variety of media, including glossy photo paper, matte paper, canvas, fine art paper, and even specialty media like CD/DVDs. The printer’s media handling capabilities will determine the types of projects you can undertake. Check the printer’s specifications for the maximum paper weight and thickness it can support. A rear tray or manual feed slot is often necessary for handling thicker or more delicate media.
How important is color gamut when choosing a photo printer?
Color gamut refers to the range of colors a printer can accurately reproduce. A wider color gamut means the printer can produce more vibrant and realistic colors. This is particularly important for photographers and designers who need accurate color representation. Look for printers that support industry-standard color spaces like Adobe RGB or sRGB. Some printers also offer advanced color management tools to fine-tune color accuracy. The best wide format photo printers will have a wide color gamut.
What connectivity options should I look for in a wide format printer?
The best wide format photo printers should offer a variety of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. Wi-Fi allows you to print wirelessly from computers, smartphones, and tablets. Ethernet provides a stable wired connection for shared printing in a network environment. USB allows you to connect directly to a computer. Mobile printing capabilities, such as Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, are also convenient.
Are supertank printers a good choice for wide format photo printing?
Supertank printers, which use refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, can offer significant cost savings on ink. This makes them a good choice for users who print frequently or in high volumes. While some supertank printers may not offer the same level of color accuracy as professional-grade printers, many models are now capable of producing excellent photo quality. Consider a supertank printer if you want to reduce your printing costs.
What is the significance of automatic 2-sided printing (duplex printing)?
Automatic 2-sided printing, also known as duplex printing, allows the printer to automatically print on both sides of the paper. This can save paper and reduce printing costs, especially for documents and reports. While not essential for photo printing, it can be a useful feature if you also plan to use the printer for other types of printing. Some wide format printers offer automatic 2-sided printing up to a certain paper size.
What are some important security features to consider in a printer?
Security features are becoming increasingly important, especially for printers used in business environments. Look for printers with features like secure printing, which requires a PIN or password to release print jobs. Other security features include data encryption, access control, and intrusion detection. HP Wolf Pro Security, for example, provides comprehensive security features to protect your printer from threats.
How does printer software enhance the printing experience?
Printer software can significantly enhance the printing experience by providing tools for color management, layout design, and print preview. Software like HP Click simplifies printing and offers error checking. Some printers also include software for creating posters, banners, and other large-format prints. A comprehensive software suite can help you get the most out of your wide format photo printer.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner printer appears to be a solid option for users who frequently print photos and creative projects and are looking to save money in the long run. Its high print quality, versatile media support, and user-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment if the initial cost is within your budget.
