Best Wide Format Photo Printers: Top Choices Reviewed

Best Wide Format Photo Printers: Top Choices Reviewed

For photographers and artists demanding exceptional print quality at scale, choosing the best best wide format photo printers is crucial. These printers offer the capability to produce stunning, large-format images, but navigating the market can be overwhelming.

The array of options, features, and price points requires careful consideration to ensure you select the right machine for your specific needs. This review article aims to simplify that process.

We understand the importance of balancing performance with value, providing insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional seeking reliable output or a serious hobbyist wanting to elevate your craft, finding the best best wide format photo printers is an investment.

Let’s explore the factors that matter most. —

Top 5 Best Wide Format Photo Printers Compared

Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

  • Prints large format, up to 13 x 19 inches
  • Versatile mobile and PC device compatibility
  • High-resolution color printing for vibrant photos
  • Auto duplex printing saves paper and time
★★★★

4.2/5
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Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer

Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer

  • Prints up to 13 x 19 inch media
  • High resolution color and B/W printing
  • Automatic duplex printing saves paper
  • Includes ink and setup CD-ROM
★★★

3.9/5
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HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer

HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer

  • Wide format printing up to 11 x 17 inches
  • High-resolution color and black/white printing capabilities
  • Automatic duplex printing saves paper and time
  • Large input capacity for high-volume printing needs
★★★

3.9/5
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Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier

Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier

  • High-quality photo printing with Claria Photo HD ink.
  • Versatile functionality: print, copy, and scan features.
  • Compact design fits small spaces easily.
  • Wireless printing from smartphones, PCs, and laptops.
★★★★

4.1/5
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Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13

Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13″ Wireless Inkjet Photo Printer with 3.0″ Color LCD Monitor

  • Prints on a wide variety of paper sizes.
  • Includes both paper and inkjet cartridges to start.
  • Large format printing up to 13” x 19”.
  • Reputable manufacturer: Canon.
★★★★

4.3/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Best Wide Format Photo Printers

Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner – Prints large format, up to 13 x 19 inches

Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

Crucial to note is the significant improvement in the overall experience with Epson’s new tank-style printer, particularly for users accustomed to the frustrations of traditional inkjet models. The printer is described as an absolute joy to use, inspiring frequent printing due to its ease of use and high-quality output. The gloss prints on Epson ultra-premium paper are highlighted as being exceptionally fine, offering a superior visual result.

A key advantage lies in the innovative ink tank system. The large, transparent tanks allow for easy monitoring of ink levels, and the ink itself is both long-lasting and reasonably priced. The uniquely designed ink bottles prevent accidental mixing, ensuring a mess-free and user-friendly refilling process.

The printer’s ability to produce gorgeous, luminous prints with fewer colors is also a noteworthy benefit. Beyond print quality, the printer’s convenience and functionality are praised. The built-in scanner and its software are efficient, and the touch screen simplifies copying tasks.

The wireless printing capability allows for effortless printing from smartphones and tablets. The printer also features multiple paper slots designed to accommodate various paper sizes and types, including a dedicated slot for 4×6 photos. While laser printers are still preferred for high-volume black and white text printing on plain paper due to their speed, water resistance, and cost-effectiveness, the overall versatility and user-friendliness of this Epson inkjet printer make it a highly recommendable option for a wide range of users.

Pros

  • Prints large format, up to 13 x 19 inches
  • Versatile mobile and PC device compatibility
  • High-resolution color printing for vibrant photos
  • Auto duplex printing saves paper and time
  • Includes a full set of starter ink bottles

Cons

  • * Inkjet not laser quality
  • * Software looks quite dated

Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer – Prints up to 13 x 19 inch media

Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer

Best large format printer for those seeking alternatives to expensive ink solutions. Extensive research confirms this printer is an ideal choice for handling card stock and producing exceptional quality prints. The initial setup is straightforward, with a CD and quick setup manual included.

While the default Windows drivers may not suffice for custom print sizes, the complete Epson software suite, readily available on the website, ensures seamless printing for specific needs. The WIFI connectivity setup is easy to configure. Updating the printer is easy, with the ability to update directly from the printer screen.

This printer features a 6-color cartridge system (regular 4 colors, red, and gray), resulting in impressive color accuracy and high-quality prints. While black ink may deplete faster with full-page prints, proactively purchasing extra black ink is recommended. A standout feature is its remarkably quiet operation, often making it difficult to notice when prints are complete.

This printer is highly recommended for its performance and features.

Pros

  • Prints up to 13 x 19 inch media
  • High resolution color and B/W printing
  • Automatic duplex printing saves paper
  • Includes ink and setup CD-ROM
  • Multiple connectivity options: Ethernet and App

Cons

  • Black ink may deplete quickly
  • Software suite download needed

HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer – Wide format printing up to 11 x 17 inches

HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer

Hot new printer designed for both home and professional use, especially suited for those working with larger formats like watercolor paintings and ledger-sized documents. While its large size makes it a prominent fixture, it offers an array of features that enhance productivity and convenience. The printer boasts effortless setup and seamless connectivity, easily integrating with various devices, including Android phones, iPads, and Raspberry Pi (Debian-based Linux) systems.

Print, scan, and copy functions operate flawlessly, with the added convenience of double-sided to double-sided copying. Equipped with two paper trays, each capable of holding ledger-sized paper, the printer intelligently selects the appropriate tray based on document size and can automatically fit documents to the paper size. Beyond basic printing, it offers extensive FAX capabilities, although these may not be necessary for all.

Cloud connectivity allows for remote printing, even outside the home network, with customizable security settings for authorized users. WiFi-Direct printing enables direct printing from phones without a router. The printer utilizes four reasonably priced ink cartridges, and the system can automatically order ink when levels are low.

The printer’s online web management menus are comprehensive, providing access to management, maintenance, and reporting features. While extending the print tray to ledger size may require some initial effort, and phone-based scanning is limited to single-sided, the printer is a valuable tool. Its user-friendly design and set-and-forget functionality make it an excellent choice for those needing to print and scan ledger-sized paper.

Pros

  • Wide format printing up to 11 x 17 inches
  • High-resolution color and black/white printing capabilities
  • Automatic duplex printing saves paper and time
  • Large input capacity for high-volume printing needs

Cons

  • Extending paper tray is not obvious
  • Phone scan lacks double side option

Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier – High-quality photo printing with Claria Photo HD ink.

Epson Expression Photo XP-970 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier

Ultimate printing solution combining a compact design with the ability to handle large format 11×17 inch prints, making it ideal for both everyday documents and more expansive projects. Experience the thrill of innovative features with its motorized screen and paper tray, adding a touch of technological sophistication to your printing process. Enjoy a hassle-free setup and seamless wireless printing and scanning from both Windows and Android devices.

Achieve vibrant and sharp print quality by pairing the printer with premium bright white inkjet paper, revealing the true potential of your prints. While the feed tray may be modestly sized and the per-page speed is moderate, it is important to note that this printer is optimized for quality over high-volume output. Benefit from dye-based inks that, when used with Epson photo paper, offer fast-drying, moisture-resistant, and long-lasting prints with a color-fastness of up to 70 years.

The scanner provides excellent performance, ensuring clear and accurate digital copies. Reliability is a key strength, with consistent connectivity and minimal issues related to jamming. For exceptional photo prints, it is recommended to use Epson photo paper, as other brands may not yield the same high-quality results.

While the cartridges may require a slightly higher investment and have a shorter lifespan, the overall satisfaction with the printer’s performance and capabilities remains high.

Pros

  • High-quality photo printing with Claria Photo HD ink.
  • Versatile functionality: print, copy, and scan features.
  • Compact design fits small spaces easily.
  • Wireless printing from smartphones, PCs, and laptops.
  • Automatic dual-sided printing saves paper and time.

Cons

  • Cartridges can be expensive
  • Epson paper is almost required

Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13″ Wireless Inkjet Photo Printer with 3.0″ Color LCD Monitor – Prints on a wide variety of paper sizes.

Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13

To provide an honest look, the Pixma PRO 200 is a high-quality printer known for producing gorgeous prints with beautifully laid ink. Its robust construction and exceptional color range make it ideal for specialized printing needs, such as sticker production, making it a cut above standard printers. The printer comes with a full set of ink to get started, which is a significant value.

It’s particularly appealing for those who prioritize color accuracy and print quality. The initial setup is generally straightforward, with options for both Wi-Fi and wired connections. A workaround for Wi-Fi connectivity issues involves manually connecting to the network through the printer’s settings.

However, it’s important to note that this model is strictly for printing purposes, lacking scanning capabilities. While the printer offers outstanding print quality, there are some considerations. The availability of ink can be limited, and the cost per cartridge is relatively high.

It’s advisable to have a spare set of ink on hand, especially for frequent, full-color printing. Additionally, experiences with Canon’s support have been unsatisfactory, directing individuals to forums or charging for representative assistance outside the warranty period. Durability is a potential concern, as some units may experience fatal errors, such as the “paper jam” error, which can be difficult to resolve and may lead to printer failure.

Due to the difficulties with out-of-warranty repairs and limited repair information, purchasing the official Canon carepak warranty is recommended. Despite these concerns, the printer’s superior print quality makes it a worthwhile investment, provided appropriate precautions are taken to protect it.

Pros

  • Prints on a wide variety of paper sizes.
  • Includes both paper and inkjet cartridges to start.
  • Large format printing up to 13” x 19”.
  • Reputable manufacturer: Canon.
  • LCD display for easy navigation and control.

Cons

  • Error prone and costly to fix
  • Ink can be hard to find at times

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Wide Format Photo Printers

Understanding Wide Format Photo Printers

Wide format photo printers are designed to handle larger paper sizes, typically up to 13 x 19 inches, making them ideal for printing high-quality photos, posters, and artwork. When selecting the best best wide format photo printers, consider your specific needs. Are you a professional photographer, a graphic designer, or someone who simply enjoys printing large, vibrant photos at home? Understanding your primary use case will guide your decision.

Key Features to Consider

Several key features differentiate the best best wide format photo printers. Print resolution is crucial for image clarity and detail. Look for printers offering high resolutions for vibrant, detailed photos. Ink type is another important factor; pigment-based inks offer greater fade resistance and longevity compared to dye-based inks. Connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities, ensure seamless integration into your workflow. Automatic duplex printing can save paper and time, while a large paper input capacity is beneficial for high-volume printing.

Budget and Ink Costs

The initial cost of a wide format photo printer is just one aspect to consider. Ink costs can significantly impact the overall expense of printing. Some printers, like the Epson EcoTank models, use refillable ink tanks, which can be more cost-effective in the long run. Factor in the price of ink cartridges or bottles and their expected yield when comparing different models. Researching the long-term running costs is crucial for making an informed decision about the best best wide format photo printers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Wide Format Photo Printers

What is the primary advantage of a wide format photo printer?

The main benefit is the ability to print on larger paper sizes, typically up to 13 x 19 inches. This allows for the creation of stunning, high-impact photos, posters, and artwork that wouldn’t be possible with standard-sized printers. Wide format printing provides greater creative freedom and is essential for professionals and enthusiasts who require larger prints for display or portfolio purposes. These best best wide format photo printers are a great investment for photographers.

Are wide format photo printers more expensive to operate than standard printers?

Generally, yes. The initial cost of the printer itself is often higher, and the larger ink cartridges or bottles required for wide format printing can also be more expensive. However, some models, like those with refillable ink tanks, can offer lower long-term running costs. It’s crucial to compare ink prices and yields when evaluating the overall cost of ownership. When selecting the best best wide format photo printers, consider ink costs.

What type of ink is best for wide format photo printing?

Both dye-based and pigment-based inks are used in wide format photo printers, each with its advantages. Dye-based inks offer vibrant colors and are typically more affordable. Pigment-based inks, on the other hand, provide greater fade resistance and archival quality, making them ideal for prints that need to last for many years. The choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.

What resolution should I look for in a wide format photo printer?

A higher resolution generally translates to sharper, more detailed prints. Look for a printer with a resolution of at least 4800 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch) for excellent photo quality. Some models offer even higher resolutions, resulting in even finer details and smoother gradations. The resolution is a key factor in determining the overall quality of your printed images.

Do I need a professional-grade wide format photo printer for home use?

Not necessarily. While professional-grade printers offer advanced features and exceptional print quality, many consumer-grade wide format photo printers are suitable for home use. These models often provide a good balance of performance, features, and affordability. If you’re primarily printing photos for personal enjoyment, a consumer-grade option may be sufficient.

What connectivity options are important in a wide format photo printer?

Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for wireless printing from smartphones, tablets, and computers. Ethernet connectivity provides a stable wired connection for network printing. USB connectivity allows for direct printing from computers and external storage devices. Mobile printing capabilities, such as Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, offer convenient printing from mobile devices.

How important is automatic duplex printing in a wide format photo printer?

Automatic duplex printing, which allows for printing on both sides of the paper automatically, can save paper and reduce printing costs. While not essential for all users, it’s a valuable feature for those who frequently print documents or brochures. It also contributes to a more environmentally friendly printing process. It is a good feature to consider when looking for the best best wide format photo printers.

What paper types can wide format photo printers handle?

Wide format photo printers can typically handle a variety of paper types, including glossy photo paper, matte paper, fine art paper, and canvas. The specific paper types supported will vary depending on the model. Check the printer’s specifications to ensure it’s compatible with the paper types you intend to use.

Are refillable ink tank systems a good option for wide format photo printers?

Refillable ink tank systems, such as those found in Epson EcoTank printers, can offer significant cost savings over traditional cartridge-based systems. While the initial cost of the printer may be higher, the lower cost per page can make them a more economical choice in the long run, especially for high-volume printing.

What is the warranty and support like for wide format photo printers?

Before purchasing, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period provides greater peace of mind. Also, consider the availability of customer support, including online resources, phone support, and service centers. Reliable support can be invaluable if you encounter any issues with your printer.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

After careful consideration of all the options, we believe the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner stands out as the best overall choice for most users. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you are a casual user or a discerning enthusiast, this product delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying experience.

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