If you’re searching for a 36 inch wide format printer, you’re likely balancing quality, speed, and cost. The Epson SureColor T5170 stands out as the best overall for its precision and wireless features, ideal for professional environments. The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 offers excellent color accuracy for detailed posters, while the HP DesignJet T630 excels in ease of use with its auto sheet feeder. Each option presents specific tradeoffs—such as higher initial costs versus long-term durability or feature set. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these models to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top models balance print quality, speed, and ease of maintenance, with Epson and Canon leading in precision and color accuracy.
- Price varies significantly, with high-end models offering professional features and entry-level options prioritizing affordability and simplicity.
- Wireless connectivity is common among the best, but some models sacrifice speed for this convenience.
- Support and warranty options can influence long-term value, especially for business-critical use.
- Choosing the right model depends heavily on whether your priority is color fidelity, speed, ease of use, or cost.
| Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wireless Printer |  | Best Overall for Compact, High-Speed Wide-Format Printing | Print Speed: 31 seconds for A1/D-size prints | Display: 4.3-inch LCD color touchscreen | Print Size: 36 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 36-Inch Large Format 5-Color Poster & Plotter Printer |  | Best for Vibrant Color and Entry-Level Use | Print Width: 36 inches | Color: 5-color pigment ink | Ink Capacity: 300 ml | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with Auto Sheet Feeder, Media Bin & Stand |  | Best for Technical Drawings and Maps with Flexible Media Handling | Media Size: Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19-inch sheets | Media Handling: Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with 2-Year Onsite Support |  | Best for Professional Technical and Construction Use with Reliability | Media Size: Up to 36-inch wide media rolls | Media Handling: Sheet and roll feed, automatic switch | Print Speed: Up to 25 seconds per page | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TA-30 with Stand 36” Large Format Inkjet Printer |  | Best for High-Speed Poster Production and Easy Wireless Printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format 36-inch Color Plotter Printer with 2-Year Support |  | Best Overall for Professional-Grade Large Format Printing | Media Size: Up to 36 inches wide | Media Handling: Roll feed, sheet feed (50 sheets), automatic cutter, media bin | Media Roll Diameter: 100mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 Inkjet Large Format Printer – 36″ Color |  | Best for Fast, High-Quality Large Format Prints | Print Size: 914.40 mm (36 inches) | Print Speed: 2 D-size prints per minute | Warranty: 1 year on-site | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format 36-inch Color Plotter Printer | | Best Connectivity and Versatility for Technical and Creative Projects | Media Size: Up to 36 inches wide | Media Handling: Roll feed, sheet feed (50 sheets), automatic cutter, media bin | Media Roll Diameter: 100mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 36-inch 5-Color Inkjet Printer Plotter |  | Best for High-Quality Color and Small Footprint | Size: 36 inches | Color: 5-Color LUCIA TD pigment inks | Connectivity: Wi-Fi | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| inch wide format printer | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wire | Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 36-I | Wired and Wireless (USB, Ethernet) |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TA-30 with | — |
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 Inkj | — |
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint, HP app |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 36-i | Wi-Fi |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wireless Printer
This Epson model stands out for its combination of speed, ease of use, and compact design, making it ideal for small offices or studios where space is limited. Compared to the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340, the T5170 offers faster print speeds—up to 31 seconds for A1 prints—and a more streamlined wireless setup, which simplifies workflow for users who need quick, reliable output from multiple devices. However, it lacks detailed information on ink replacement costs, which could impact long-term expenses, and it does not include scanning or copying features, limiting its versatility. This pick is perfect for users who prioritize fast, wireless large-format printing in tight spaces without requiring multifunction capabilities.
Pros:- Fast print speeds for large-format documents
- Intuitive 4.3-inch color touchscreen
- Compact size saves valuable workspace
- Wireless connectivity from multiple devices
Cons:- Uncertain long-term ink costs due to limited info
- No scanning or copying features included
Best for: Small architectural firms or design studios needing quick, high-quality prints with limited workspace
Not ideal for: Large-scale production environments or users requiring scanning and copying functions
- Print Speed:31 seconds for A1/D-size prints
- Display:4.3-inch LCD color touchscreen
- Print Size:36 inches
- Cartridge Capacity:up to 50 mL color, 80 mL black
- Connectivity:Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct
Our verdict“This printer works best for small teams needing speedy, wireless wide-format printing without extra multifunction features.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 36-Inch Large Format 5-Color Poster & Plotter Printer
The Canon TM-340 offers vibrant, consistent color output thanks to its 5-color pigment ink system, making it suitable for posters, signage, and detailed CAD work. Compared with the Epson SureColor T5170, it provides automatic color calibration and media detection, which simplifies operation for beginners or small shops. Its full-frontal media loading system enhances ease of use, but being targeted at entry-level users, it may lack advanced features needed by professionals. The initial ink capacity (300 ml) might require frequent refills for high-volume jobs, and its size could demand significant space. This printer is ideal for small businesses or educational settings where color quality and ease of setup matter most.
Pros:- Vivid color output with automatic calibration
- Easy media loading with front operation
- Includes creative workflow software
- Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly
Cons:- Limited to entry-level features, may lack professional options
- High-volume printing could be hampered by ink refills
Best for: Small print shops or educational institutions focusing on vibrant posters and basic CAD drawings
Not ideal for: High-volume professional printing or workflows requiring advanced media handling
- Print Width:36 inches
- Color:5-color pigment ink
- Ink Capacity:300 ml
- Connectivity:Wired and Wireless (USB, Ethernet)
- Certifications:ENERGY STAR, EPEAT Gold
Our verdict“This model is suited for users who need vibrant output with straightforward operation and moderate volume capacity.”
HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with Auto Sheet Feeder, Media Bin & Stand
The HP DesignJet T630 excels at technical and mapping applications, supporting media up to 36 inches wide with multiple handling options, including sheet and roll feed. Its support for diverse media types and sizes makes it a flexible choice for architects and engineers. Compared to the Epson SureColor T5170, the T630 emphasizes media versatility and support for sheet feeding, but it might be less suitable for high-volume or color-intensive poster work. The setup process can be complex, especially when installing the stand and media bin, which could be a barrier for casual or small-office users. This printer is best for professionals who need precise, large-format technical prints in varied media formats.
Pros:- Supports large media rolls and sheets up to 36 inches
- Multiple media handling options including roll and sheet
- Wireless connectivity provides flexible placement
- Automatic media detection simplifies setup
Cons:- High cost may deter casual users
- Requires dedicated space for stand and media bin
Best for: Architects, engineers, or GIS specialists needing precise technical drawings and maps
Not ideal for: High-volume poster production or casual hobbyists due to setup complexity
- Media Size:Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19-inch sheets
- Media Handling:Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Hi-Speed USB 2.0
- Support:Large-format, technical, mapping
Our verdict“Ideal for professionals demanding flexible media options and precise technical large-format printing.”
HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with 2-Year Onsite Support
The HP DesignJet T650 combines high-quality, precise output with faster print speeds (up to 25 seconds per page for A1/D size), making it well-suited for busy professionals like architects and engineers. Compared with the more entry-level Canon TM-340, the T650 emphasizes productivity and cost-efficiency, particularly with its ink management and remote software control via the HP Smart app. Its setup can be challenging for those unfamiliar with technical printers, and it offers limited media size options for very large projects. However, the included 2-year onsite support adds peace of mind for critical work environments. This model makes sense for professionals who require reliable, fast, and accurate large-format prints with minimal downtime.
Pros:- High-quality, precise large-format printing
- Fast print speeds improve workflow
- Cost-efficient ink usage reduces running costs
- Remote management via HP Smart app
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge less tech-savvy users
- Limited to certain media sizes for very large projects
Best for: Architectural firms and construction professionals needing dependable, high-speed large-format printing
Not ideal for: Casual users or hobbyists who do not require quick turnaround or high-volume output
- Media Size:Up to 36-inch wide media rolls
- Media Handling:Sheet and roll feed, automatic switch
- Print Speed:Up to 25 seconds per page
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi
- Memory:1GB RAM
Our verdict“This printer suits busy professional environments demanding dependable, fast, and precise large-format output.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TA-30 with Stand 36” Large Format Inkjet Printer
The Canon TA-30 offers impressive speed, capable of printing 113 posters per hour, making it an excellent choice for high-volume poster and banner printing. Its wireless capabilities and included poster creation software streamline workflow, especially for users needing quick turnaround for marketing or event signage. Compared with the Epson SureColor T5170, the TA-30 emphasizes speed and ease of use but lacks detailed specs on ink capacity or media versatility, which could be limiting for ongoing or large-scale projects. Its focus on fast poster production makes it less suited for detailed CAD or technical work. This model is ideal for businesses or print shops that prioritize rapid poster output and wireless convenience.
Pros:- Exceptional speed—113 posters per hour
- Wireless printing for flexible setup
- Includes free poster creation software
- Supports media widths up to 36 inches
Cons:- Limited info on ink capacity for sustained high-volume use
- No mention of advanced media handling features
Best for: Commercial print shops or marketing teams needing fast, high-volume poster printing
Not ideal for: Technical or detailed CAD printing, or environments requiring multifunction features
Our verdict“Perfect for rapid poster production, especially in commercial settings where speed and wireless printing are priorities.”
HP DesignJet T850 Large Format 36-inch Color Plotter Printer with 2-Year Support
The HP DesignJet T850 stands out for its versatile media handling, supporting both roll and sheet media up to 36 inches wide, making it ideal for technical drawings, maps, and posters. Its inclusion of a 2-year onsite support plan provides peace of mind for busy offices. Compared to the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300, the T850 offers more media options and larger media capacity, but it is bulkier and potentially more expensive. The automatic cutter and media bin streamline workflow, which is a big plus in high-volume environments. However, its size and complexity may be overwhelming for casual users or small offices with limited space. This model makes the most sense for professionals needing reliable, large-format output with comprehensive support, despite its higher price and space requirements.
Pros:- Supports media up to 36 inches wide for versatile printing needs
- Includes 2-year onsite support for peace of mind
- Features automatic cutter and media bin for efficient workflow
- Compatible with a range of media types for diverse projects
Cons:- Large physical footprint requiring significant space
- Designed primarily for professional use, which can be complex for beginners
Best for: Design firms, engineering offices, or GIS professionals needing durable, high-volume large-format printing with support.
Not ideal for: Small businesses or hobbyists looking for a compact or budget-friendly option, as the T850’s size and cost may be prohibitive.
- Media Size:Up to 36 inches wide
- Media Handling:Roll feed, sheet feed (50 sheets), automatic cutter, media bin
- Media Roll Diameter:100mm
- Memory:1 GB
- Supported Media:Bond, coated, heavyweight paper/media rolls
- Support:2-year onsite and phone support
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for professional environments demanding high-volume, reliable large-format printing with comprehensive support.”
Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 Inkjet Large Format Printer – 36″ Color
The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 offers a quick output of two D-size prints per minute, making it suitable for professional environments where speed is essential. It provides high-quality color reproduction, essential for detailed maps and graphics, with a 1-year on-site warranty that adds some assurance. In comparison to the HP DesignJet T850, which supports a wider array of media handling options, the iPF770’s strength lies in its rapid output and color accuracy. However, its limited print size speed (focused on D-size) and sparse technical specs can be a drawback for users needing more media versatility or detailed control. This printer makes sense for professionals prioritizing fast, high-quality printing over media flexibility or advanced workflow features.
Pros:- High-quality color printing with accurate reproduction
- Fast output of 2 D-size prints per minute
- Includes a 1-year on-site warranty for support
- Compact footprint suitable for small offices
Cons:- Limited to D-size prints at this speed, reducing versatility
- Lack of detailed specifications for media handling
Best for: Architects or engineers needing quick, high-quality printing of technical drawings and posters, especially when speed outweighs media flexibility.
Not ideal for: Offices requiring large roll media handling or multi-media types, as the iPF770 is primarily optimized for fast D-size prints and may lack advanced media options.
- Print Size:914.40 mm (36 inches)
- Print Speed:2 D-size prints per minute
- Warranty:1 year on-site
Our verdict“This printer is best for professionals needing rapid, high-quality printouts of technical materials, with less emphasis on media variety.”
HP DesignJet T850 Large Format 36-inch Color Plotter Printer
The HP DesignJet T850 shares many features with the B0CNSTZMJ2 version but distinguishes itself with a broad array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and compatibility with mobile devices via AirPrint and the HP app. This makes it highly flexible for offices with multiple users or remote printing needs. Its high-quality color output and media handling are comparable to the earlier HP model, but the added connectivity options make it easier to integrate into diverse workflows. Compared to the Canon iPF770, the T850’s media versatility and support for large rolls give it an edge in handling complex projects. Nevertheless, the T850’s size and complexity might challenge smaller or less tech-savvy teams. This model is ideal for tech-forward professional environments that require flexible, large-format printing with multiple device compatibility.
Pros:- Supports large media rolls up to 36 inches wide
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi and Ethernet
- High-quality color printing suitable for technical and creative work
- Efficient media handling with automatic cutter and media bin
Cons:- May be expensive for casual or small-scale users
- Large size requires significant space and setup effort
Best for: Large offices or design teams that need flexible, multi-device connectivity and support for various media types in large-format printing.
Not ideal for: Small or casual users who prefer simplicity over extensive connectivity options, as setup and management could be complex.
- Media Size:Up to 36 inches wide
- Media Handling:Roll feed, sheet feed (50 sheets), automatic cutter, media bin
- Media Roll Diameter:100mm
- Memory:1 GB
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint, HP app
Our verdict“This printer offers versatile connectivity and media handling, making it ideal for tech-savvy offices needing flexible large-format output.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 36-inch 5-Color Inkjet Printer Plotter
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 delivers vibrant, high-quality color prints with its 5-color LUCIA TD pigment inks, making it a strong choice for detailed posters and presentation materials. Its compact size suits small offices or tight spaces, and Wi-Fi connectivity simplifies setup. Compared to the larger HP DesignJet T850, the TM-300 sacrifices media versatility and bulk capacity but excels in producing vivid, professional-grade images in a small footprint. Its limited detailed specs and higher ink costs due to pigment inks could be drawbacks for high-volume users. This model is best for professionals who prioritize high-quality color output in a compact package, with moderate volume needs.
Pros:- Produces vibrant, high-quality color prints with LUCIA TD inks
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows easy wireless setup
- Compact footprint fits small or crowded spaces
- Suitable for detailed posters and presentation graphics
Cons:- Limited media handling capacity compared to larger plotters
- Potentially higher ink costs due to pigment inks
Best for: Graphic designers or architects needing vibrant color prints with limited space, and moderate print volume.
Not ideal for: High-volume production environments or those requiring extensive media handling, as the TM-300’s capacity and versatility are limited.
- Size:36 inches
- Color:5-Color LUCIA TD pigment inks
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for professionals needing vibrant, detailed color prints in a small, easy-to-fit device without high-volume demands.”
How We Picked
These printers were evaluated based on a combination of performance metrics, build quality, usability, and value. We considered print resolution, color accuracy, media handling, and connectivity options to assess their suitability for professional and commercial applications. Maintenance requirements and support options also played a role, as durability and serviceability impact total ownership costs. The ranking emphasizes models that deliver reliable results in a 36-inch format, with clear distinctions based on their intended user profiles and feature sets.| inch wide format printer | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wire | Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 36-I | Wired and Wireless (USB, Ethernet) |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TA-30 with | — |
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 Inkj | — |
| HP DesignJet T850 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint, HP app |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 36-i | Wi-Fi |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 36 Inch Wide Format Printer
Choosing the right 36-inch wide format printer involves understanding key factors that influence performance and value. Beyond basic specs, buyers should consider how the printer fits their specific workflow, the types of media supported, and the ongoing costs associated with ink and maintenance. Making the wrong choice can lead to higher expenses or compromised output quality, so it’s worth evaluating these details carefully.Print Quality and Resolution
High-resolution output is essential for detailed graphics, photographs, and professional posters. Look for printers with at least 2400 dpi for sharp images, but consider models with even higher resolutions if color accuracy and fine detail are priorities. Keep in mind that higher resolution can sometimes slow down print speeds, so balance quality with productivity based on your needs.
Media Handling and Compatibility
Check which media types and sizes the printer can handle. Many models support a variety of papers, vinyl, and canvas, but some are more versatile than others. Automatic sheet feeders and roll feed options streamline workflow, especially for large-volume jobs. Consider your typical media types and whether the printer’s media handling capabilities match your volume and project types.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless connectivity, cloud printing, and mobile app support add convenience, especially for teams that need to print from multiple devices. However, these features can sometimes introduce complexity or slowdowns. Evaluate the user interface and control options—touch screens and intuitive software can reduce setup time and errors, saving you frustration and time.
Cost of Operation and Maintenance
Initial price is only part of the total cost. Ink, maintenance kits, and replacement parts can add up over time. Some models have larger ink cartridges that reduce refilling frequency, but they may have higher upfront costs. Consider the longevity of consumables and whether support packages or warranties are included to mitigate unexpected expenses.
Support and Warranty
Reliable customer support and comprehensive warranties can be a lifeline for busy environments. Look for models with on-site support options or extended warranties, especially if your business depends on consistent output. Also, consider the availability of local service centers and the ease of obtaining replacement parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a roll-fed and sheet-fed 36-inch printer?
Roll-fed printers are ideal for large-volume printing of banners, posters, and continuous media, offering longer runs without changing media frequently. Sheet-fed models, on the other hand, are better suited for smaller runs or jobs requiring precise cuts, like detailed posters or proofs. Your workflow volume and media preferences should guide this choice; if you print large banners regularly, a roll-fed model provides efficiency, while sheet-fed models offer more flexibility for mixed-media projects.
Is wireless connectivity worth it for a 36-inch printer?
Wireless features add convenience, especially in shared workspaces or studios with multiple devices. They allow direct printing from laptops, tablets, or cloud services without physical connection. However, some wireless setups can slow down performance or introduce connectivity issues, particularly with large files. If your environment demands frequent, quick printing from multiple sources, wireless is a valuable feature; otherwise, a wired connection might offer more stability and speed.
What’s the difference between inkjet and laser in wide-format printing?
Most 36-inch wide format printers are inkjet-based, which excel in producing high-quality color and detailed images, making them ideal for posters, photos, and art reproduction. Laser models are less common but can offer faster speeds and lower running costs for simpler line drawings or CAD prints. For detailed, vibrant output, inkjet is generally the better choice, but if speed and cost efficiency are priorities, exploring laser options may be worthwhile.
How often should I expect to replace ink or toner in these printers?
Replacement frequency depends on your print volume and media type. High-capacity ink cartridges can last for hundreds of pages but will need replacement less frequently if your volume is moderate. For large ongoing jobs, consider models with bulk ink systems, which reduce downtime and lower per-page costs. Regular maintenance and monitoring ink levels can prevent unexpected interruptions, especially in busy production environments.
Are extended warranties necessary for a 36-inch wide format printer?
Extended warranties can be a wise investment if your printer is critical for daily operations or high-volume jobs. They often cover repairs, replacements, and support beyond the standard warranty period, reducing unexpected expenses. For occasional or hobbyist use, the standard warranty may suffice, but for professional or commercial use, investing in extended support can provide peace of mind and ensure minimal downtime.
