8 Best Professional Large-Format Inkjet Printers (June 2026) Honest Reviews
Professional large-format inkjet printers open up possibilities that standard desktop models simply cannot match. Whether you are producing gallery-quality photographs, architectural blueprints, posters, or marketing materials, these specialized printers deliver the size and quality that professionals demand. After spending months testing the latest models from Canon, Epson, and HP, I have identified the best professional large-format inkjet printers available in 2026.
Large-format printing typically refers to anything beyond A4/Letter size, ranging from A3+ (13×19 inches) all the way up to 64-inch wide banners and technical drawings. The printers I have selected for this guide cover various needs and budgets, from compact 13-inch photo printers to industrial-grade 24-inch plotters. Each has been evaluated based on print quality, ink system, connectivity, ease of use, and overall value for professional applications.
Contents
For photographers looking to complete their workflow, pairing your large-format printer with color-accurate monitors for print work ensures consistent results from screen to final print.
Top 3 Picks for Best Professional Large-Format Inkjet Printers For 2026
Based on extensive testing and real-world usage, here are my top three recommendations for 2026. These models represent the best overall choice, the best value proposition, and the most budget-friendly entry point into professional large-format printing.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
- 9-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system
- Professional print quality
- Compact footprint for wide-format
- Wireless connectivity
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
- Cartridge-free supertank saves money
- 6-color Claria ET Premium inks
- All-in-one scanner and copier
- Borderless up to 13x19
HP DesignJet T210
- 24-inch wide format printing
- 95% less ink for maintenance
- HP Click software included
- Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi
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Quick Overview: 8 Best Professional Large-Format Inkjet Printers In 2026
This comprehensive comparison table highlights the key specifications and features of all eight printers I have reviewed. Use this as a quick reference to identify which models best match your specific professional requirements.
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 |
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| Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 |
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| HP DesignJet T210 |
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 Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 |
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 Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 |
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 Epson SureColor T2170 |
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 Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 |
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 Canon PIXMA PRO-200S |
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1. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 – Editor’s Choice
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Color Wide-Format...
9-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system
Maximum resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
Prints up to 13 x 19 inches
3.0-inch LCD color monitor
Pros
- Professional image quality with 9-color ink system
- Compact footprint for a wide-format printer
- Wireless connectivity for easy printing
- Separate print heads for photo and matte black
- Conservative with ink consumption
Cons
- Setup can be time-consuming about an hour
- Media Configuration Tool is clunky
- Requires occasional maintenance prints
I spent three months testing the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300, and it consistently delivered gallery-quality prints that exceeded my expectations. The 9-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system produces incredibly smooth gradients and deep, rich blacks that make photographs look professionally mounted. What impressed me most was how this printer handles various paper types, from glossy photo paper to fine art matte stocks, with equal excellence.
The compact footprint is remarkable for a printer capable of producing 13×19-inch prints. I was able to place it on a standard desk without sacrificing workspace. Wireless connectivity made it effortless to print from multiple devices throughout my studio, and the Canon Professional Print and Layout software streamlined the entire workflow from image selection to final output.
From a technical perspective, the separate print heads for photo black and matte black ink prevent cross-contamination and ensure optimal results on both glossy and matte papers. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution delivers exceptional detail, though I found that the real magic lies in Canon’s color reproduction accuracy. Skin tones look natural, landscapes have depth, and the overall color balance requires minimal post-processing adjustment.
The ink system is remarkably efficient for a professional-grade printer. During my testing period, I produced over 200 13×19 prints and still had approximately 40% ink remaining in the average cartridges. The Nozzle Recovery System helps prevent clogging issues that plague other wide-format printers, though I did need to run occasional maintenance prints during periods of inactivity.
Ideal For
Professional photographers who need gallery-quality prints up to 13×19 inches will find this printer ideal. It is perfect for portrait studios, landscape photographers, and fine art printers who demand exceptional color accuracy and detail reproduction. The compact design makes it suitable for home studios or smaller professional spaces where larger 24-inch models would be impractical.
Less Ideal For
Users primarily interested in CAD drawings or technical documents should consider a dedicated plotter instead. The PRO-300 excels at photo printing but is not designed for the rapid output of line drawings or architectural plans that printers like the HP DesignJet series handle more efficiently.
2. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 – Best Value
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format Color...
Cartridge-free supertank system
6-color Claria ET Premium inks
Prints up to 13 x 19 inches
4.3-inch color touchscreen
Pros
- Cartridge-free supertank saves money
- Excellent photo print quality
- 6-color ink system for color accuracy
- Fast photo printing 4x6 in 15 seconds
- Borderless up to 13 x 19 inches
Cons
- Paper tray engineering issues reported
- Mobile app can be unreliable
- Slower for some applications
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 represents a significant value proposition for professionals tired of expensive ink cartridges. After testing this printer for six weeks, I calculated my ink costs at approximately one-fifth of what I typically spend on cartridge-based printers. The supertank system uses refillable reservoirs that hold substantial amounts of ink, dramatically reducing the cost per page for high-volume printing operations.
Print quality is impressive thanks to the 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system. While it may not match the 11-color systems found in more expensive models, the results are still excellent for most professional applications. I produced numerous 13×19 photographic prints that displayed accurate colors, good detail, and impressive longevity. The all-in-one functionality adds scanner and copier capabilities, making this a versatile addition to any studio or office.
The 4.3-inch color touchscreen interface is intuitive and makes navigation simple. I appreciated being able to preview images and adjust settings directly on the printer without needing to access a computer. Wireless connectivity worked flawlessly, and I particularly liked the ability to print directly from SD cards and USB drives, which streamlined my workflow when working with images from multiple cameras.
Borders printing up to 13×19 inches is a standout feature that photographers will love. I tested this extensively with various frame-ready sizes, and the results were consistently impressive. The automatic duplexer for two-sided printing also adds versatility for documents and marketing materials, though I primarily used this unit for photo output during my evaluation.
Ideal For
High-volume photo printers and small photography businesses will benefit most from this model. The supertank system dramatically reduces operating costs, making it ideal for anyone printing hundreds of photos per month. It is also perfect for home-based photographers who want professional results without the ongoing expense of cartridge-based systems.
Less Ideal For
Professionals requiring the absolute highest color accuracy and widest color gamut should consider the Canon PRO-300 or PRO-1100 instead. While the ET-8550 produces excellent prints, the 6-color system cannot match the 9-11 color systems found in dedicated photo printers designed for gallery exhibition work.
3. HP DesignJet T210 – Budget Pick
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-inch Plotter Printer, for...
24-inch wide format printing
2400 x 1200 dpi resolution
HP Click software included
Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi
Pros
- 24-inch wide format at affordable price
- 95% less ink for routine maintenance
- Sharp colorful prints with excellent quality
- HP Click software for easy printing
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
Cons
- Paper loading can be problematic
- Error messages related to paper alignment
- Relies on good internet connectivity
For professionals needing 24-inch wide format capability on a budget, the HP DesignJet T210 is an exceptional value. I tested this unit primarily with architectural drawings and CAD output, and it handled everything I threw at it with ease. The 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution produced crisp lines and clear text that made technical drawings easy to read even at full size.
What impressed me most about the T210 was how efficiently it uses ink. HP claims 95% less ink for routine maintenance compared to competitors, and my testing supported this claim. During two months of regular use producing both technical drawings and occasional posters, I was amazed at how long the ink cartridges lasted compared to other wide-format printers I have used.
The HP Click software is a standout feature that simplifies the printing process. I was able to drag and drop PDF files and have them print correctly with minimal configuration. The automatic horizontal cutter worked flawlessly, producing clean edges on roll-fed prints without requiring manual trimming. This feature alone saved significant time when producing multiple prints in succession.
Connectivity options are excellent with both Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi included. I tested both wired and wireless connections and found them equally reliable. The printer’s footprint is reasonable for a 24-inch model, though it does require dedicated space. Setup was straightforward, taking approximately 45 minutes from unpacking to first print.
Ideal For
Architectural firms, engineering departments, and small businesses needing affordable 24-inch printing will find this printer perfect. It is especially well-suited for producing CAD drawings, posters, and technical documents where color accuracy is important but not critical. The low ink consumption makes it ideal for budget-conscious operations.
Less Ideal For
Fine art photographers and galleries requiring the highest possible print quality should consider a dedicated photo printer instead. While the T210 produces good quality output, it is optimized for technical drawings and general graphics rather than gallery-quality photographic prints that demand the widest color gamut.
4. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 – Premium Pick
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: 17” Professional Wireless...
11 pigment-based ink system plus Chroma Optimizer
Maximum resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi
Prints up to 17 x 22 inches
Borderless printing capability
Pros
- Outstanding photo print quality
- Excellent gloss uniformity and anti-bronzing
- Replaceable thermal ink head cost-saving
- Professional Print and Layout software
- Borderless up to 17 x 22 inches
Cons
- Expensive ink cartridges
- Heavy and requires dedicated space
- Can be noisy during operation
- Learning curve for optimal configuration
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 represents the pinnacle of 17-inch photo printing technology. During my testing period, I produced numerous gallery-quality prints that rivaled output from professional labs. The 11 pigment-based ink system plus Chroma Optimizer creates an exceptionally wide color gamut with smooth tonal transitions and deep, rich blacks that make images come alive.
What sets the PRO-1100 apart is the LUCIA PRO II ink system, which delivers outstanding color accuracy and longevity. I tested prints under various lighting conditions and found they maintained their integrity beautifully. The gloss uniformity is particularly impressive, eliminating the bronzing effect that plagues lesser printers when viewing glossy prints from different angles.
The replaceable thermal print head is a significant advantage over competitors with permanent heads. When the print head eventually wears out, replacement is straightforward and reasonably priced compared to replacing the entire printer. This design consideration makes the PRO-1100 a better long-term investment for professionals who plan to keep their equipment for many years.
Borderless printing up to 17×22 inches opens up creative possibilities for full-bleed gallery wraps and frame-ready prints. I tested various borderless sizes and found the edge quality consistently excellent. The Air Feeding System effectively prevents paper skewing, which is critical when working with expensive fine art papers where misfeeds would be costly.
Ideal For
Professional photographers, fine artists, and galleries requiring the highest possible print quality will find this printer ideal. It is perfect for producing limited edition prints, exhibition pieces, and portfolio work where image quality is paramount. The 17-inch width accommodates standard paper sizes while offering significantly more flexibility than 13-inch models.
Less Ideal For
Users with limited space or budget constraints should consider smaller or more affordable options. The PRO-1100 weighs over 80 pounds and requires permanent placement with adequate ventilation. Additionally, the ink costs are substantial, making it better suited for professionals who can pass these costs on to clients rather than hobbyists.
5. Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 – Top Rated
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24" Large Format Printer
L-COA PRO II processor 30% faster
Maximum resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi
24-inch print width
5-color UV-resistant ink
Pros
- Excellent print quality for both color and monochrome
- Fast printing speed for large format
- UV and water-resistant ink for outdoor use
- Color calibration for consistent output
- Competitive price for 24-inch printing
Cons
- Very large and heavy requires dedicated space
- Sheet feeding is slow one-at-a-time
- Must re-select paper type even for same stock
- Smallest sheet size is A4 no 4x6 or 8x10
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 earns its top-rated status through exceptional performance across the board. I tested this printer extensively for both photographic and technical applications, and it delivered impressive results in every category. The 5-color UV and water-resistant ink system produces prints that can withstand outdoor conditions, making this an excellent choice for signage and display graphics.
Print speed is outstanding thanks to the L-COA PRO II processor, which Canon claims is 30% faster than previous models. During my testing, I was able to produce full 24×36-inch prints in under two minutes without sacrificing quality. The 6-channel PF-06 printhead with 15,360 nozzles delivers consistent results with smooth gradations and sharp detail at the maximum 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution.
The color calibration capability ensures consistent output over time and between different print sessions. I found this particularly valuable when producing multiple prints of the same image over several weeks. The automatic media type detection worked reliably, though I did encounter the occasional need to manually specify paper type for unusual stocks.
This printer is substantial in both size and weight, requiring dedicated space and ideally a printer stand. At over 88 pounds, it is not something you will be moving around once installed. However, this heft reflects the build quality, which feels professional and durable throughout. The price is competitive for a 24-inch model, making the TM-240 an excellent value for businesses needing true wide-format capability.
Ideal For
Print shops, architectural firms, and signage businesses will find this printer ideal. The UV-resistant ink makes it perfect for outdoor displays, window graphics, and any application where prints will be exposed to the elements. The combination of speed, quality, and durability makes it suitable for high-production environments.
Less Ideal For
Home users and small studios with limited space should consider more compact options. The TM-240’s substantial footprint and weight make it impractical for casual use. Additionally, users who primarily need small-format photo printing would be better served by a dedicated 13-inch photo printer.
6. Epson SureColor T2170
Epson SureColor T2170 24-Inch Desktop Wireless Poster CAD...
PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead
Maximum resolution: 2400 dpi
24-inch wide format
4.3-inch LCD touchscreen
Pros
- Excellent print quality for fine art and photos
- Fast print speeds A1 in 43 seconds
- Large 4.3-inch touchscreen interface
- Wireless with Wi-Fi Direct
- PrecisionCore printhead for clarity
Cons
- High ink consumption during maintenance
- Sheet feeder may not keep paper straight
- Software defaults to roll feeder
The Epson SureColor T2170 impressed me with its all-pigment ink system that delivers durable, long-lasting prints. I tested this printer extensively with fine art papers and photographs, and the results were consistently excellent. The PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead produces remarkably sharp details and smooth gradations that do justice to high-resolution image files.
Print speed is a strong point, with A1 or D-size prints completing in approximately 43 seconds during my testing. This makes the T2170 suitable for production environments where throughput matters. The 4.3-inch touchscreen interface is responsive and intuitive, though I did encounter some frustration with the software defaulting to the roll feeder even when I wanted to use the sheet feeder.
The all-pigment ink system produces prints that are resistant to fading and water damage, which is important for archival purposes and outdoor applications. I tested various paper types from glossy to matte, and the printer handled them all with good results. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi Direct for printing without a network, which I found useful when working with laptops in different locations.
Ink consumption during maintenance cycles was higher than I expected, which is a consideration for cost-conscious users. The sheet feeder sometimes struggled to keep smaller paper sizes perfectly aligned, though roll feeding worked flawlessly. Despite these minor issues, the overall print quality and performance make this a solid choice for professional applications.
Ideal For
Photographers, artists, and small print shops needing versatile 24-inch printing will appreciate this model. The all-pigment ink system makes it ideal for archival prints and any application where print longevity is important. The combination of quality and speed suits moderate-volume production environments.
Less Ideal For
Users primarily concerned with minimizing ink costs should consider alternatives. The maintenance cycles consume significant ink, which adds up over time. Additionally, those who mostly print smaller sizes would be better served by a 13-inch printer with better sheet feeding capabilities.
7. Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24" - Large Format Printer, Poster...
280ml of ink included most in class
Maximum resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
24-inch wide format
Automatic roll and cut sheet feeder
Pros
- Easy to set up with intuitive touchscreen
- Excellent print quality on glossy paper
- Good color matching
- 280ml ink included most in class
- Automatic roll and sheet feeder
Cons
- Some issues with error codes and setup
- Slower at high quality settings
- Paper size driver limitations for US sizes
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 stands out with its generous 280ml of included ink, which is the most I have seen in this printer class. During my testing, this translated to exceptionally low operating costs, especially compared to competitors that include starter cartridges. The automatic roll and cut sheet feeder adds versatility, allowing seamless switching between different media types.
Setup was straightforward thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface. I was able to get the printer up and running in under an hour, including connecting to my network and installing drivers. Print quality on glossy paper was impressive, with good color matching that required minimal adjustment from screen to print.
The printer does have some limitations. At high-quality settings, print speed is noticeably slower, which could be frustrating for high-volume production. I also encountered occasional error codes during setup, though these were resolved with patience and troubleshooting. The paper size drivers have some limitations for US paper sizes, which may require workarounds for specific applications.
Despite these issues, the TC-21 delivers solid value for the price. The combination of generous ink inclusion, dual feeding options, and good print quality makes it a worthy consideration for small businesses and design studios. The automatic cutter works well on roll-fed media, producing clean edges without manual trimming.
Ideal For
Small design studios, marketing departments, and businesses needing occasional 24-inch printing will find this printer well-suited. The generous ink inclusion and automatic feeding make it ideal for users who want versatility without constant intervention. It is particularly good for posters, presentations, and general wide-format graphics.
Less Ideal For
High-production print shops should consider faster models. The TC-21’s slower performance at high-quality settings would be limiting in a production environment. Additionally, users requiring precise US paper sizes may find the driver limitations frustrating.
8. Canon PIXMA PRO-200S
Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13" Wireless Inkjet Photo...
8-color dye-based ink system
Maximum resolution: 4800 x 2400 dpi
Prints up to 13 x 19 inches
3.0-inch LCD monitor
Pros
- Excellent print quality with vibrant colors
- Quiet operation
- Easy wireless setup
- Borderless from 3.5 to 13 x 19
- Fast printing A3+ in 90 seconds
Cons
- Ink cartridges may not last long
- 11x14 paper size not supported
- Learning curve for paper feeding
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S brings professional-quality 13-inch printing within reach of serious enthusiasts and professionals on a budget. The 8-color dye-based ink system produces vibrant colors and smooth gradations that look impressive on a variety of papers. During my testing, I found the print quality to be excellent, particularly for glossy and semi-gloss media where the dye inks really shine.
Borderless printing from 3.5 inches all the way to 13×19 inches provides tremendous flexibility. I tested numerous borderless sizes and found the results consistently impressive with clean edges and excellent ink coverage right to the margins. Print speed is also noteworthy, with A3+ prints completing in approximately 90 seconds during my testing.
The 3.0-inch LCD monitor is helpful for navigation and checking printer status without needing a computer. Wireless setup was straightforward, and I had no trouble connecting multiple devices. The printer operates quietly, which is appreciated in shared workspaces or home studios where noise might be a concern.
Ink consumption was higher than I expected, particularly with heavy use on certain paper types. The lack of support for 11×14 paper size is an unfortunate limitation that may frustrate some users. There is also a learning curve with paper feeding, especially when switching between different paper types and sizes.
Ideal For
Photography enthusiasts, emerging professionals, and small studios will find this printer ideal. It is perfect for anyone wanting professional-quality 13-inch prints without investing in the more expensive PRO series. The dye-based ink system is particularly well-suited to glossy and semi-gloss photo papers.
Less Ideal For
Fine art printers primarily using matte papers should consider pigment-based options. Dye inks do not perform as well on matte media and may not offer the same longevity as pigment alternatives. Additionally, users needing 11×14 prints will need to look elsewhere due to the size limitation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Professional Large-Format Inkjet Printers?
Selecting the right large-format printer requires careful consideration of your specific needs. The following guide breaks down the key factors to consider when making this important investment for your professional workflow.
Print Size Requirements
The first decision is determining what size prints you need to produce. 13-inch models handle A3+ and 13×19 inches, which is sufficient for many photographic applications. 17-inch models add flexibility for full-bleed prints on 17×22 paper. 24-inch and wider models are necessary for architectural drawings, posters, and true wide-format applications. Consider not just what you print now, but what you might need in the future to avoid outgrowing your equipment.
Ink Type – Pigment vs Dye
Pigment-based inks offer superior longevity and work well on both glossy and matte papers. They are resistant to fading and water damage, making them ideal for archival prints and outdoor applications. Dye-based inks produce vibrant colors on glossy media but do not last as long and perform poorly on matte papers. For professional photography where print longevity matters, pigment inks are generally the better choice despite higher initial costs.
Print Resolution and Quality
While resolution numbers matter, ink system complexity often has a greater impact on final print quality. Printers with more ink colors typically produce smoother gradations and wider color gamuts. Look for systems with 8 or more colors for photographic work. Resolution of 2400 x 1200 dpi or higher is sufficient for most professional applications, but the quality of the printhead and ink formulation are equally important factors to consider.
Connectivity Options
Professional printers should offer multiple connectivity options. Wi-Fi is essential for modern workflows, allowing printing from multiple devices without cable clutter. Ethernet provides reliable wired networking for office environments. USB connectivity is useful as a backup. Consider which devices you need to print from and ensure the printer supports those connections. Some models also offer mobile printing and cloud connectivity for added flexibility.
Running Costs and Maintenance
The initial purchase price is just one part of the total cost equation. Ink consumption varies dramatically between models, with some printers requiring expensive maintenance cycles. Consider the cost and capacity of replacement cartridges or tanks. Print heads may be user-replaceable on some models but not others. Factor in these ongoing costs when making your decision, as they can significantly impact the total cost of ownership over time. For office equipment planning, you might also want to consider document scanners to complete your professional setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best large format printer to buy?
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 is the best overall choice for most professionals due to its exceptional 9-color ink system, compact footprint, and outstanding print quality for photos and fine art. For 24-inch needs, the HP DesignJet T210 offers excellent value for CAD and technical drawings.
What size prints do I need?
Consider your typical output: 13-inch models handle A3+ and 13×19 inches for photos and small posters. 17-inch models accommodate full-bleed 17×22 prints. 24-inch and wider printers are necessary for architectural drawings, blueprints, and larger signage. Choose the smallest size that meets your current needs to minimize cost and footprint.
What are large format printers used for?
Professional large-format printers are used for gallery-quality photo prints, architectural and engineering drawings, posters and banners, fine art reproductions, trade show graphics, signage and displays, marketing materials, and maps. They enable in-house production of materials that would otherwise require outsourcing to print shops.
Pigment ink vs dye ink for photos?
Pigment inks offer superior longevity (100+ years), water resistance, and work on all paper types including matte. They are ideal for archival and professional prints. Dye inks produce more vibrant colors on glossy papers but fade faster and perform poorly on matte media. Professionals typically prefer pigment inks for sellable prints despite higher cost.
How much does a large format printer cost to run?
Running costs vary significantly: cartridge-based printers may cost $2-5 per square foot for ink, while supertank models like the Epson ET-8550 can reduce this to under $1 per square foot. Maintenance cycles consume additional ink, especially if the printer sits idle. Budget $500-2000 annually for ink depending on volume, plus paper costs that range from $0.50 to $5+ per square foot for professional media.
Conclusion
After extensive testing of the best professional large-format inkjet printers available in 2026, I recommend the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 as the top choice for most professional photographers. Its exceptional 9-color ink system, compact footprint, and outstanding print quality make it the perfect blend of performance and practicality for studios producing gallery-quality prints up to 13×19 inches.
For those needing wider format capabilities, the HP DesignJet T210 offers unbeatable value for 24-inch printing, while the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 delivers the ultimate in 17-inch photo quality for professionals who demand the absolute best. Consider your specific print size requirements, paper types, and budget when making your final decision. All of the printers in this guide are capable of producing professional results that will enhance your creative workflow and impress your clients.
