Finding the best wide format printer for a print shop involves balancing print quality, speed, and operational costs. The HP DesignJet T210 stands out as the overall top pick for its reliable performance and ease of use, while the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 offers exceptional ink efficiency and versatility. Other options like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840 excel in high-volume environments, but often come with higher upfront costs or larger footprints. Common tradeoffs include choosing between cost-effective ink systems and faster production speeds. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the perfect fit for your print shop’s needs.
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e Wide Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best for Office, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included, AI-Enabled (53N95A)
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e stands out as the best choice for small to medium offices requiring reliable wide-format printing with high-quality color output. Its ability to print up to 11×17″ with fast speeds—up to 18 ppm in color—outperforms many competitors like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310, especially with its AI-enabled printing that ensures web pages and emails are perfectly formatted. The inclusion of a 250-sheet input tray and security features like HP Wolf Pro Security makes it ideal for sensitive office environments. While setup is straightforward and it offers versatile connectivity, its bulk at 32.2 pounds and reliance on proprietary cartridges could be drawbacks for some. Compared to the Epson WF-7310, it offers better security and color accuracy but at a slightly higher cost and size. This pick makes the most sense for offices needing a versatile, secure, and high-quality wide-format printer.
Pros:- Fast printing speeds up to 18 ppm in color and 22 ppm black
- AI-enabled formatting for web pages and emails
- Built-in security with HP Wolf Pro Security
- High color accuracy with P3 wide color gamut
Cons:- Relatively bulky at 32.2 pounds, requiring sturdy placement
- Uses proprietary HP cartridges, which can be costly over time
- Higher initial price compared to some competitors
Best for: Small to medium office environments needing fast, secure, and high-quality wide-format color printing.
Not ideal for: Small home offices with limited space or users seeking budget-friendly, compact printers.
- Print Speed Black & White:22 ppm
- Print Speed Color:18 ppm
- Maximum Media Size:11×17 inches
- Input Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Security Features:HP Wolf Pro Security
Bottom line: This printer is perfect for offices that prioritize speed, security, and color fidelity in wide-format printing.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with Print up to 13″ x 19″ Auto Double-Sided Printing max 11″ x 17″, 500-sheet Capacity, 2.4″ Color Display, Smart Panel App – Black
The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 is tailored for users who need high-volume, photo-quality, and CAD-grade prints. Its impressive 500-sheet capacity and high-speed printing—up to 25 ppm in black—make it stand out against models like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e for heavy workloads. Its PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology ensures quick, crisp prints with vibrant colors, especially on large media like 13″ x 19″ sheets. The 2.4″ color display and Smart Panel app facilitate easy control from anywhere, ideal for busy print shops. However, its bulk and the requirement to use Epson genuine cartridges could be limiting for some. Unlike the HP 9720e, it excels in volume handling and photo printing but is less security-focused. It’s well-suited for professional environments where speed and durability are critical.
Pros:- High sheet capacity of 500 sheets
- Fast printing speeds up to 25 ppm black
- Vivid color output with PrecisionCore technology
- User-friendly 2.4″ color display and mobile app control
Cons:- Very bulky and heavy, less portable
- Requires Epson genuine cartridges, which can be expensive
- No duplex printing for double-sided documents
Best for: High-volume print shops and professionals needing fast, reliable CAD and photo printing.
Not ideal for: Small offices or home users with limited space or budget constraints.
- Max Media Size:13×19 inches
- Print Speed Black:25 ppm
- Print Speed Color:12 ppm
- Input Capacity:500 sheets
- Display:2.4″ color
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Bottom line: Ideal for professional, high-volume environments demanding fast, high-quality CAD and photo prints.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print up to 13″ x 19″, Copy, Scan and Fax, 50-Page ADF, 500-sheet Paper Capacity, 4.3″ Screen,Black
The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840 offers exceptional reliability for busy offices needing wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″ with fast speeds—up to 25 ppm black and 12 ppm color. Its 500-sheet capacity and 4.3″ touchscreen make it suitable for high-volume, large-format tasks, surpassing smaller models like the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e in volume handling and speed. Its PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology and DURABrite Ultra inks provide crisp, smudge-free output on various media, including banners and photo paper. While its size and weight are considerable, making it less portable, it provides excellent workflow control and integration with mobile devices. Compared with the HP 9720e, it emphasizes volume and speed over security features. This model is best for offices with demanding print workloads and large-format needs.
Pros:- High-speed printing up to 25 ppm black
- Large 500-sheet capacity for heavy workloads
- Easy-to-use 4.3″ touchscreen control
- Supports a wide range of media including banners
Cons:- Bulky and heavy, less portable
- Requires genuine Epson cartridges, which can add to costs
- Larger footprint may not suit compact spaces
Best for: Large offices and print shops requiring high-volume, fast, and durable wide-format printing with multiple media types.
Not ideal for: Small home offices or users with limited space and lower-volume needs.
- Max Media Size:13×19 inches
- Print Speed Black:25 ppm
- Print Speed Color:12 ppm
- Input Capacity:500 sheets
- Display:4.3″ touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Bottom line: A solid choice for high-volume, professional large-format printing where speed and capacity outweigh portability.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best-for-Home Office, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included, AI-Enabled (405T6A)
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e excels as an all-in-one solution for home offices that need reliable color printing up to 8.5×14″ and moderate volume. Its print speed of up to 10 ppm in color and 20 ppm black makes it suitable for everyday tasks, outperforming smaller home printers like the HP DesignJet T210 in speed but lacking large-format capabilities. Its wireless connectivity, auto duplex, and AI-enabled formatting ensure efficient workflow, while the 225-sheet input tray supports typical home office workloads. However, its size at 45.4 pounds and lack of large media support make it less ideal for professional large-format projects. Compared with the HP 9720e, it offers a more compact, budget-friendly alternative for daily printing, but with limited media size options. Best suited for users needing quality and convenience in a smaller footprint.
Pros:- Reliable wireless connectivity and mobile control
- Fast color printing up to 10 ppm
- Auto duplex for efficiency
- Moderate 225-sheet input capacity
Cons:- Bulk at 45.4 pounds, less portable
- Limited to 8.5×14″ media size, unsuitable for large-format needs
- Slower compared to high-volume models like Epson WF-7840
Best for: Home offices needing reliable, high-quality color printing with moderate volume.
Not ideal for: Large-scale print shops or professionals requiring wide-format or large media handling.
- Print Speed Color:10 ppm
- Print Speed Black:20 ppm
- Maximum Media Size:8.5×14 inches
- Input Capacity:225 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Security Features:AI-enabled formatting
Bottom line: Best for home office users seeking a dependable, compact, and easy-to-use color inkjet printer for everyday tasks.
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-Inch Plotter Printer for Easy CAD & Poster Prints (8AG32T), Includes 2-Year Warranty & Support
The HP DesignJet T210 is tailored for professionals in architecture, engineering, and GIS, combining ease of use with precise large-format printing. Its ability to handle 24″ wide media and produce detailed CAD drawings, maps, and posters makes it distinct from smaller printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e. The included 2-year extended warranty and HP Click software streamline large project workflows, allowing users to print directly from design applications with auto-nesting and error checking. Its compact size for a plotter and support for automatic sheet feeding and cutter contribute to efficiency. While its initial investment is higher and it is specialized for technical printing, it excels in delivering accurate, high-quality large-format outputs. Compared to the Epson EcoTank Photo, it offers more precise line quality but less versatility in media types.
Pros:- Handles media up to 24″ wide with automatic cutter
- High precision with detailed line accuracy
- Includes 2-year warranty and support
- Auto nesting and error detection with HP Click software
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to standard printers
- Limited to technical and poster printing, less suited for photo media
- Requires dedicated space for large plotter setup
Best for: Architects, engineers, and GIS professionals needing precise, large-format CAD and poster prints.
Not ideal for: Small offices or users seeking general photo or wide-format poster printing without technical accuracy needs.
- Media Width:24 inches
- Print Speed:45 seconds per A1
- Media Handling:Sheet feed, roll feed, cutter
- Warranty:2 years
- Connectivity:USB, Ethernet
- Supported File Types:PDF, JPEG, TIFF, DWF
Bottom line: An excellent choice for professionals needing reliable, detailed large-format CAD, blueprint, and poster printing with minimal fuss.
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-format Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner Copier, Ethernet and 4.3-inch Colorfull Touchscreen
This model stands out for its cartridge-free design and exceptional media versatility, making it ideal for high-quality photo and graphic projects. Compared with the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000, the ET-8550 offers significantly lower running costs due to its refillable ink bottles, which can print thousands of pages at a fraction of the price. However, its larger size and higher initial investment mean it may not suit smaller or budget-conscious shops. The 6-color ink system ensures vibrant colors and sharp details, perfect for gallery-quality prints, yet it involves a longer warm-up time and slightly slower print speeds. The intuitive 4.3-inch touchscreen and wireless features simplify operation, especially from mobile devices. This pick makes the most sense for print shops prioritizing large-format, high-quality photo output at a lower cost over time, accepting a bigger footprint and initial setup complexity.
Pros:- Cartridge-free printing drastically reduces ongoing costs
- Supports borderless media up to 13″ x 19″ with specialty media support
- Vibrant 6-color ink system delivers lab-quality color and sharp detail
Cons:- Larger footprint may not suit compact workspaces
- Slower print speeds compared to smaller, cartridge-based models
- Initial cost is higher than typical inkjet printers
Best for: Creative print shops focusing on high-volume, cost-efficient photo and graphic printing with wide media support
Not ideal for: Small tabletop operations with limited space or shops needing quick turnaround on fast-paced jobs
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:1440 x 5760 dpi
- Ink System:6-color refillable bottles
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Touchscreen:4.3-inch color LCD
Bottom line: This printer is ideal for creative print shops that need large-format, high-quality photo printing at a low running cost despite the larger physical size.
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready, Black, Large
This pick makes the most sense for shops seeking a high-quality, wide-format photo printer without the expense of a professional-grade device like the Epson ET-8550. Compared to the EcoTank ET-8550, the XP-15000 uses traditional cartridges, which might be costlier over the long run but offers quicker setup and faster output speeds. Its six-color Claria Photo HD ink system ensures brilliant color reproduction and fine detail, suitable for professional photos and artistic projects. The compact size and straightforward operation make it accessible for smaller print shops or those just starting to offer large-format printing. However, the ongoing ink costs and smaller media capacity mean it’s less suited for high-volume production. This model is perfect for shops that need high-quality wide-format prints occasionally, with a preference for quick setup and manageable costs upfront.
Pros:- Produces vibrant, detailed 13” x 19” borderless prints
- Supports a variety of media types including high-resolution photo paper
- Compact design fits smaller workspaces
Cons:- Cartridge-based ink system leads to higher long-term ink costs
- Slower than laser alternatives for volume printing
- Limited media capacity for high-volume workflows
Best for: Small to medium print shops requiring affordable, high-quality wide-format photo prints on a limited basis
Not ideal for: High-volume shops needing rapid turnaround and low ongoing ink costs for frequent large-format jobs
- Printer Type:Wireless Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Ink System:Six individual cartridges
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Media Handling:Borderless, specialty media
Bottom line: Ideal for shops wanting high-quality wide-format prints with faster setup and lower initial investment, accepting higher ongoing ink expenses.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, copy, fax, ADF, Duplex printing best-for-office, 3 month Instant Ink trial included, AI-enabled (403X0A)
This model makes sense for busy small offices that require a reliable, multi-functional device capable of printing high-quality documents and occasional wide-format jobs. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-8550, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e excels in multifunctionality, offering fax, duplex, and an automatic document feeder, making it ideal for office workflows rather than high-volume large-format printing. Its print speeds of up to 22 ppm black and 18 ppm color are competitive for office use, though it doesn’t support media as large as 13” x 19”. The AI-enabled features and secure wireless connectivity streamline daily tasks, but it isn’t designed for dedicated large-format photo or graphics work. This pick suits smaller shops or departments needing a versatile, compact device for a variety of print tasks, with an emphasis on office documents and occasional wide-format printing.
Pros:- Multi-function device with scan, copy, fax, and duplex printing
- Secure wireless connectivity and AI-enhanced printing
- Includes 3 months of Instant Ink for hassle-free ink management
Cons:- Limited media size support for 13” x 19” prints
- Slower for high-volume or photo-intensive large-format jobs
- Higher cost per page compared to dedicated photo printers
Best for: Small office environments combining document printing with occasional wide-format needs
Not ideal for: Shops focusing exclusively on large-format high-quality photo or graphic printing
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:11 x 17 inches
- Print Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Duty Cycle:20,000 pages/month
- Additional Features:Fax, duplex, ADF
Bottom line: Best suited for small office settings that need multifunctionality and reliable document handling with occasional large-format printing.
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-inch Color Plotter Printer for Easy Wide CAD & Poster Prints (8AG32D)
This pick is tailored for technical professionals like architects and engineers needing crisp, accurate line drawings and posters. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-8550, the DesignJet T210 offers superior line precision and supports media rolls up to 24 inches wide, making it ideal for CAD, GIS, and detailed posters. Its high-speed printing of up to 45 seconds per A1 sheet boosts productivity for busy offices. The device’s support for HP/GL-2 and seamless workflow integration through HP Click software simplifies complex project printing. However, it is limited to large-format output and doesn’t handle photo or high-detail color work as well as inkjet models like the Epson ET-8550. This plotter makes perfect sense for professional environments that demand high accuracy and large-format output, but less so for general creative or photo printing.
Pros:- Supports media rolls up to 24 inches wide for large CAD and poster printing
- Fast print speeds improve workflow efficiency
- Highly precise line quality with HP Bright Office Inks
Cons:- Limited to technical and poster printing, not suitable for photos
- Higher initial investment compared to standard inkjet printers
- No integrated scanning or copying functions
Best for: Architects, engineers, and GIS specialists requiring precise, fast large-format CAD and technical prints
Not ideal for: Shops needing versatile photo or high-resolution graphic printing beyond technical line work
- Printer Type:Large Format Plotter
- Maximum Media Size:24-inch roll
- Print Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed:45 sec per A1 sheet
- Connectivity:Ethernet, USB
- Supported Media:CAD, posters, maps
Bottom line: Ideal for technical professionals prioritizing high accuracy, large media support, and fast turnaround for CAD and poster prints.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, Ethernet and Printing up to 13 x 19 Inches, White
This model makes sense for shops needing a versatile, high-capacity wide-format printer with low running costs, especially for bulk creative and business print jobs. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-8550, the ET-15000 offers a similar refillable ink system but with higher paper capacity (250 sheets) and built-in fax and fax functionalities, making it a strong choice for busy offices. Its ability to print borderless full-color photos up to 11″ x 17″ and support for multiple media types offers flexibility for creative projects. The large ink tanks and low cost per page are significant advantages for high-volume environments, although the print speed is moderate and it requires more space. This pick is well-suited for offices seeking a reliable, high-capacity, cost-effective wide-format solution that balances creative and document printing needs.
Pros:- Supports borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″ with various media
- Large capacity ink tanks for low-cost, high-volume printing
- Multifunction capabilities including fax, scan, and copier
Cons:- Moderate print speed limits productivity for high-volume workflows
- Larger footprint may not suit small or crowded spaces
- Initial cost higher than standard A3 printers
Best for: High-volume offices and creative shops needing large-format printing with low running costs
Not ideal for: Shops with limited space or those requiring rapid high-speed output for small jobs
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Ink System:Refillable bottles
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
Bottom line: This printer is best for offices needing a reliable, high-capacity, cost-effective solution for wide-format creative and business printing.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer, Auto 2-Sided Print 13″ x 19″ Copy, Scan & Fax, 50-Page ADF, 250-sheet Paper Capacity, Works with Alexa – Black
This model stands out for its ability to handle large, wide-format jobs quickly and efficiently, making it ideal for busy print shops that need reliable speed and quality. Compared with the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310, the WF-7820 offers a larger paper capacity and automatic duplex printing for higher throughput, though it comes at a slightly higher price and larger footprint. Its PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology delivers fast print speeds up to 25 ppm black and 12 ppm color, ensuring that high-volume demands are met without sacrificing quality. The 4.3″ color touchscreen simplifies operation, but its bulk and weight (39.9 pounds) may challenge smaller spaces, and genuine Epson cartridges can add to ongoing costs. This pick makes the most sense for print shops prioritizing speed, capacity, and ease of use over compact size or lower initial investment.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 25 ppm black and 12 ppm color
- Large 250-sheet paper capacity reduces reloads
- Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- Wireless connectivity with mobile device support
Cons:- Relatively bulky and heavy, requiring ample space
- Higher initial cost and reliance on genuine Epson cartridges
Best for: High-volume print shops needing fast, reliable wide-format output with large paper capacity.
Not ideal for: Smaller shops with limited space or those seeking a budget-friendly solution, as this model is sizable and more costly over time.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Speed Black/Color:25/12 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- ADF Capacity:50 pages
- Weight:39.9 pounds
Bottom line: This printer is ideal for busy print shops that need fast, high-capacity, wide-format printing without sacrificing quality.
How We Picked
In selecting these printers, I evaluated key aspects that matter most to print shops, such as print quality, speed, durability, ink costs, and ease of operation. I also considered build quality, maintenance needs, and overall value, aiming to identify models that strike the right balance for different types of print shops. Each product was ranked based on how well it performs in real-world scenarios, with clear distinctions made between models suited for high-volume production versus those better for smaller operations or specialized tasks. This process ensures that the list covers a range of needs, from budget-friendly options to premium solutions tailored to professional environments.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Wide Format Printer For Print Shop
Choosing the best wide format printer for a print shop involves more than just comparing specs. Several factors influence long-term success, including operational costs, print quality, and the printer’s ability to handle your specific workload. Making informed decisions requires understanding these broader considerations to avoid common pitfalls like overestimating initial budget or underestimating ongoing maintenance costs. Here are key factors to keep in mind:Print Quality and Resolution
High resolution is essential for detailed graphics, CAD drawings, and professional posters. Look for printers with at least 1200 dpi to ensure crisp lines and vibrant colors. Keep in mind, higher resolution often means slower print speeds, so balance quality with productivity needs based on your typical workload.
Print Speed and Volume
Evaluate the printer’s pages per minute (ppm) and duty cycle—how many prints it can handle weekly without issues. For busy print shops, a model with a higher ppm and robust duty cycle minimizes delays and keeps operations smooth. However, faster speeds sometimes come with increased noise and higher energy consumption.
Ink System and Operating Costs
Consider whether the printer uses cartridge-based or bulk ink systems. Bulk ink options, like Epson EcoTank models, drastically reduce ongoing ink costs and mess. Be aware, though, that these systems often require more frequent refilling and larger storage space. Cheaper ink might seem attractive initially but can compromise color vibrancy and longevity.
Build Quality and Reliability
Durability is vital for a print shop. A well-built, industrial-grade chassis reduces downtime and maintenance needs. Cheaper models might save money upfront but could lead to frequent repairs, impacting your productivity and costs over time. Look for warranties and support options that match your workload demands.
Size and Footprint
Wide format printers can be bulky, so measure your available space carefully. Compact models save room but may sacrifice some features or capacity. Conversely, larger units support higher volume printing but require dedicated space and proper ventilation. Balance your space constraints with your production needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the right print width for my shop?
Choosing the right print width depends on the typical size of your projects. If you mainly produce posters, CAD drawings, or banners, a printer supporting 24 to 36 inches will meet most needs. However, if you handle larger signage or textiles, you might need a model that extends beyond 36 inches. Consider your most common output sizes and future growth to make an informed choice.
Are wide format printers expensive to operate over time?
Operational costs vary widely based on the ink system, maintenance, and energy use. Ink costs are usually the largest ongoing expense, especially with cartridge-based systems. Bulk ink models like Epson EcoTank tend to have lower per-page costs, reducing expenses over time. Additionally, regular maintenance and parts replacements can add to costs, so choosing a durable, reliable model helps manage expenses.
Can I switch between different media types easily?
Most professional wide format printers support a variety of media, but the ease of changing media types depends on the model. Look for printers with quick-change feed systems and versatile media handling features, especially if you print on different materials such as vinyl, paper, or fabric. Some models also support roll-to-sheet printing, which adds flexibility for different jobs.
What kind of maintenance should I expect with a wide format printer?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning print heads, replacing cartridges or refilling ink, and checking feed mechanisms. Higher-end models often have automated cleaning cycles, reducing manual effort. Proper maintenance ensures consistent print quality and extends your machine’s lifespan, but neglecting it can lead to costly repairs and downtime.
Is it better to buy a new or refurbished wide format printer?
New printers typically come with full warranties and the latest features, offering peace of mind for busy print shops. Refurbished units can be more budget-friendly but may carry risks like limited support or unknown usage history. If opting for a refurbished model, ensure it comes with a warranty and has been thoroughly tested by a reputable seller to avoid unexpected issues.
