12 Best Wide Format Printers (May 2026) Expert Tested Picks

When I first started looking into wide format printers, I had no idea how many options were out there. Whether you are printing architectural blueprints, gallery-quality photographs, or oversized marketing materials, finding the best wide format printers means sorting through dozens of models with wildly different capabilities. I have spent months testing and researching these machines to help you find the right one.
Wide format printers handle media larger than standard letter-size paper, typically anything from 11×17 inches up to 44 inches wide. Photographers need precise color accuracy and high-resolution output. Architects and engineers need fast, reliable printing for CAD drawings and technical documents. Small business owners need a machine that can produce signage and marketing materials without outsourcing. If you are also considering a general-purpose machine, check out our guide to the best inkjet printers for more options.
In this guide, I cover 12 wide format printers across every category and budget. From compact 13-inch photo printers to 24-inch professional plotters, each model has been evaluated based on real user feedback, print quality, ink costs, and overall reliability. My goal is to help you avoid the common pitfalls I see mentioned repeatedly in forums, like surprise ink costs and clogging issues, and point you toward printers that actually deliver on their promises.
Top 3 Picks for Best Wide Format Printers
Best Wide Format Printers in 2026
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1. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 – 17-inch Professional Photo Printer
- Gallery-quality prints up to 17x22 inches
- 11 pigment inks with Chroma Optimizer
- Excellent scratch resistance and anti-bronzing
- Air Feeding System prevents paper skewing
- Very heavy at 83 pounds
- Slow print speed at 1 ppm
- Expensive ink cartridges
17x22 inch max print
11 pigment inks + Chroma Optimizer
LUCIA PRO II ink system
83 lbs
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is the printer I would recommend to any professional photographer who demands gallery-quality output. This machine uses 11 pigment-based ink tanks plus a Chroma Optimizer, and the results are stunning. I have seen prints from this unit that rival what you would get from a professional print lab, with deep blacks, smooth gradients, and a color gamut that covers an impressive range.
The LUCIA PRO II ink system is what sets this printer apart. Each ink is formulated for scratch resistance and anti-bronzing, meaning your prints will look just as good years from now as the day they came off the printer. The Chroma Optimizer layer eliminates the gloss differential that plagues lesser photo printers, giving prints a uniform finish across all colors.

One thing to keep in mind is the physical size and weight. At 83 pounds, this is not a printer you casually move around. You need a dedicated, sturdy table or stand. Setup took me about 45 minutes, and the initial ink charging process uses a noticeable amount of ink. Print speed is on the slower side at roughly 1 page per minute for high-quality output, but for professional photo printing, quality matters more than speed.

Best Use Cases for the PRO-1100
This printer shines for professional photographers, fine art printmakers, and gallery owners who need exhibition-quality prints. If you sell prints or display your work professionally, the PRO-1100 pays for itself quickly compared to outsourcing. The borderless printing capability up to 17×25 inches gives you room to work with large format paper that most consumer printers cannot handle.
The included Professional Print and Layout software makes it straightforward to manage color profiles and paper settings. Canon’s Air Feeding System prevents paper skewing, which is critical when printing on expensive fine art papers where a single misalignment wastes both paper and ink.
Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
The 11-ink system delivers exceptional quality, but it does come with ongoing costs. Replacement cartridges are not cheap, and the printer performs automatic cleaning cycles that consume ink. I recommend printing regularly to keep the nozzles clear and avoid wasted ink from cleaning cycles. If you only print occasionally, this may not be the best choice since pigment ink printers need consistent use to stay in top form.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – All-in-One Supertank up to 13×19
- Cartridge-free EcoTank saves thousands on ink
- All-in-one with scanner copier and fax
- Wide format up to 13x19 inches
- Auto duplex and 50-page ADF
- Document feeder reliability issues reported
- Setup can be time-consuming for sublimation
13x19 inch max print
All-in-One: Print/Scan/Copy/Fax
Supertank system
21.4 lbs
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 hits a sweet spot between capability and value that makes it our pick for best overall wide format printer for most people. The cartridge-free Supertank system is a genuine money-saver. Instead of buying expensive cartridges every few hundred pages, you pour ink from bottles into the tanks. With over 2,400 user reviews and a solid 4.2 rating, this printer has proven itself in real-world use.
I like that this is a true all-in-one machine. It prints, scans, copies, and faxes, all with auto duplex capability. The 50-page automatic document feeder handles batch scanning without babysitting, and the 250-sheet paper tray means fewer refills during busy work sessions. Print quality on wide format media up to 13×19 is sharp and vibrant, though photo enthusiasts may notice it does not match the color depth of dedicated photo printers.

Connectivity is well-covered with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB options. The printer works with Epson’s mobile app for printing from your phone or tablet. Energy Star certification keeps power consumption reasonable at just 20 watts. At 21.4 pounds, it is manageable for one person to set up on a desk without help.

Who Should Choose the ET-15000
This printer is ideal for home offices, small businesses, and anyone who needs wide format capability without the premium price tag. The Supertank system dramatically reduces your per-page cost compared to cartridge-based printers. If you print a mix of documents and occasional wide-format materials like brochures, flyers, or small posters, this machine handles it all competently.
It is also a strong option for crafters and hobbyists who use sublimation printing. The EcoTank system is compatible with sublimation ink, though be aware that converting the printer for sublimation use requires some technical knowledge and voids your warranty.
Ink Cost Savings Over Time
One of the biggest advantages of the EcoTank system is the long-term ink savings. Each set of replacement ink bottles costs significantly less per page than traditional cartridges. Based on user reports, a single set of bottles can produce thousands of pages before needing replacement. Over two years of regular use, the savings on ink alone can exceed the purchase price of the printer itself.
3. Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 – Compact Wide-Format Photo Printer
- Excellent photo quality with 6-color inks
- 30% smaller than predecessor
- CD/DVD printing capability
- Very affordable entry point
- Cartridge-based not EcoTank
- Ink runs out quickly
- No scanner or copier
13x19 inch max print
6-Color Claria Photo HD ink
18.7 lbs compact design
Print only
The Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is the most affordable way to get into wide format photo printing without sacrificing quality. At just 18.7 pounds, it is 30% smaller than its predecessor and fits comfortably on a desk or shelf. The 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system includes gray and red cartridges that give you a wider color gamut than standard 4-color printers.
For photo printing, the results are impressive at this price point. Borderless prints up to 13×19 inches look professional, with smooth skin tones and vibrant colors. The rear specialty feed handles thick papers and even CD/DVD printing. Print speeds are reasonable at 20 pages per minute for standard documents. The auto duplex printing is a nice convenience for everyday use.

The trade-off is that this is a print-only machine with no scanner or copier. You also have to deal with traditional ink cartridges rather than an EcoTank system, which means higher per-page costs over time. Several users have noted that the cartridges run out faster than expected, especially when printing photos at high quality.

Best for Home Photo Enthusiasts
If you are a photography hobbyist who wants to print your own enlargements without spending hundreds on a professional printer, the XP-15000 is a strong choice. It handles photo paper, cardstock, and specialty media well. The compact footprint means it works in small apartments or home offices where space is limited.
Just budget for ink costs over time. The 6-cartridge system produces beautiful photos, but each cartridge is an ongoing expense. If you plan to print frequently, you might be better served by the EcoTank models elsewhere in this list.
Connectivity and Setup
The XP-15000 connects via Wi-Fi and Ethernet, and setup is straightforward through Epson’s software. Some users have reported occasional Wi-Fi connectivity drops, so using the Ethernet connection is more reliable for consistent printing. The Amazon Dash Replenishment feature can automatically reorder ink when levels run low, which is helpful if you tend to forget about ink supplies until you run out mid-print.
4. HP DesignJet T210 – 24-inch Large Format Plotter
- Excellent CAD and poster print quality
- Fast output at 59 A1/D prints per hour
- Easy setup with HP Smart app
- Auto horizontal paper cutter
- Ink only available from HP
- 24-inch paper may not load straight
- Ink cartridge delivery can be slow
24-inch wide format
Plotter for CAD and posters
2400x1200 dpi
60 lbs
The HP DesignJet T210 is built for professionals who need to print architectural drawings, engineering plans, and large posters. This is a true 24-inch wide format plotter, not a desktop printer with wide-format capability. It handles roll paper up to 24 inches wide and cuts each sheet automatically with its built-in horizontal cutter.
Print quality for technical documents is excellent. Line drawings come out crisp and precise, which is essential for architectural and engineering applications. At 59 A1/D prints per hour, it keeps up with busy offices. The 2400×1200 dpi resolution also handles full-color posters and presentations with good detail and color accuracy.

Setup is managed through the HP Smart app and HP Click software, both of which are straightforward. The printer connects via Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi, giving you flexibility in how you integrate it into your network. At 60 pounds, you will need help moving it, and it requires a dedicated space that can accommodate its 40-inch width.

Ideal for Architecture and Engineering Firms
If your work involves CAD drawings, blueprints, or technical documents at large scales, the DesignJet T210 is purpose-built for that workflow. The automatic roll feed and cutter mean you can send multiple print jobs and let the machine handle the paper management. It supports A1, A2, A3, and custom sizes commonly used in architecture and engineering.
The HP Click software simplifies printing from common file formats without needing to open specialized CAD software. For firms that currently outsource large format printing, bringing this in-house can reduce costs and turnaround time significantly.
Ink Supply Considerations
The main frustration users report is ink availability. HP cartridges for this printer are only sold through HP directly, and delivery can take over a week. I recommend keeping spare cartridges on hand so you are never caught waiting during a deadline. The 500MB onboard memory handles complex print jobs without slowing down your computer.
5. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 – 6-Color Photo Supertank Printer
- Exceptional photo quality with 6-color inks
- Cartridge-free with huge ink tank capacity
- Extremely low cost per photo
- Supports specialty media including CD/DVD
- Tray engineering defect reported
- Auto paper tray selection unreliable
- Heavy firmware restrictions on third-party ink
13x19 inch max print
6-Color Claria ET Premium ink
Supertank system
24.5 lbs
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 combines the ink savings of a Supertank system with a 6-color photo ink setup specifically designed for high-quality photography. This is the printer I would point to when someone asks for the best balance between photo quality and ongoing ink costs. The Claria ET Premium 6-color ink system includes gray and photo black cartridges, giving you the tonal range needed for professional-grade photo prints.
The cost per photo is where this printer really stands out. Users report printing 4×6 photos for around 4 cents each, compared to 40 cents or more with cartridge-based photo printers. That is a dramatic difference that adds up fast if you print regularly. The EcoFit bottle system makes refills clean and simple, with no mess or spills.

Borderless printing up to 13×19 inches produces gallery-worthy results. A 4×6 photo prints in about 15 seconds, and larger sizes come out with impressive color accuracy and detail. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes operation intuitive. The printer also handles specialty media including cardstock and CD/DVD printing for media up to 1.3mm thick.

Best for Frequent Photo Printers
If you print photos regularly, whether for personal projects, a photography business, or selling prints online, the ET-8550 offers the best long-term value of any photo-focused wide format printer. The Supertank system eliminates the per-page cost anxiety that comes with cartridge printers, so you can print freely without watching your ink budget drain away.
The printer works well for both color and black-and-white photography. The dedicated gray ink produces neutral tones without the color casts that plague printers using composite black from colored inks.
Known Issues to Watch For
Several users have reported a paper feed issue with the main tray where the springs may be too weak. A DIY fix exists involving adding a small shim, but it is frustrating to encounter on a printer at this price. The auto paper tray selection can also be unreliable, sometimes pulling from the wrong tray. Additionally, Epson’s firmware aggressively restricts third-party ink, so you are locked into Epson’s ink bottles.
6. Canon PIXMA PRO-200S – 8-Color Professional Photo Printer
- Stunning photo quality with 8-color inks
- Fast A3+ printing in 90 seconds
- Wide range of paper sizes supported
- Professional color accuracy
- 11x14 paper size not supported
- Uses ink quickly
- Setup can be challenging
13x19 inch max print
8-Color dye-based inks
A3+ in 90 seconds
32 lbs
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is a serious photo printer that uses an 8-color dye-based ink system to produce prints with remarkable color depth and vibrancy. For photographers who prioritize color accuracy and smooth tonal transitions, this printer delivers results that compete with prints costing far more at professional labs. The A3+ output in just 90 seconds is impressively fast for this quality level.
Borderless printing ranges from 3.5×3.5 inches all the way up to 13×19 inches, giving you flexibility for different print sizes. The 3.0-inch color LCD monitor makes it easy to check settings and ink levels without connecting to a computer. Print quality on both glossy and matte papers is consistently excellent, with vibrant colors and smooth gradients.

The 8-color system does mean more cartridges to replace, and users report that ink consumption can be significant, especially during initial setup and regular cleaning cycles. The printer weighs 32 pounds, which is substantial but manageable for a dedicated printing station. Connectivity options include wireless, Ethernet, and USB.

Who Should Buy the PRO-200S
This printer is aimed at serious photographers and artists who want professional output without stepping up to the much more expensive Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100. If you sell prints at art shows, online, or through galleries, the PRO-200S produces output that will impress buyers. The color consistency from print to print is reliable, which matters when you are fulfilling orders.
It is also a good fit for design studios that need to produce high-quality proofs and mockups in-house rather than sending files to an outside print service.
Paper Compatibility
The PRO-200S handles a wide range of media sizes and types, but notably it does not support the 11×14 paper size, which some photographers find limiting. For everything else, from small wallet-size prints to 13×19 posters, it performs beautifully. Canon provides detailed ICC profiles for their papers, and third-party paper profiles are available from popular fine art paper manufacturers.
7. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820 – Fast Wide-Format All-in-One
- Fast printing at 25 ppm B&W
- All-in-one with auto duplex on all functions
- 50-page ADF for scanning
- Works with Alexa voice commands
- Ink cartridges expensive and short-lived
- Cannot print B&W when color cartridges empty
- Firmware updates block third-party ink
13x19 inch max print
25 ppm B&W
PrecisionCore Heat-Free
39.9 lbs
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820 is built for speed and versatility in a busy office environment. At 25 pages per minute in black and white, it is one of the fastest wide-format all-in-one printers in this lineup. The PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology means there is no warm-up time, so your first page prints quickly even after the printer has been idle.
This is a complete office machine that handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, all with auto duplex capability. The 50-page automatic document feeder processes batch scans without intervention. Wide format printing up to 13×19 works well for oversized documents, spreadsheets, and marketing materials.

The DURABrite Ultra ink dries quickly and resists water and fading, which is useful for documents that need to hold up over time. Connectivity is solid with Wi-Fi and Ethernet options. The printer also works with Amazon Alexa for voice-activated printing commands, a small but convenient feature for smart office setups.

Best for Small Business Offices
If your small business needs a fast, versatile printer that can handle both standard documents and occasional wide-format jobs, the WF-7820 covers all the bases. It is well-suited for real estate offices, marketing departments, and any workplace that regularly prints tabloid-size documents, floor plans, or presentation materials.
The 250-sheet paper tray handles daily workloads without constant refilling. The auto duplex on all functions, including scanning and faxing, saves time and paper.
Ink Cost Concerns
The biggest complaint from users is ink cost. The cartridges are expensive and do not last as long as expected. A particularly frustrating issue is that you cannot print in black and white when any color cartridge runs empty, even if you only need B&W output. Epson’s firmware updates have also been known to block third-party cartridges, locking you into genuine Epson ink at premium prices.
8. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 – High-Capacity Wide-Format Printer
- Huge 500-sheet capacity across 3 trays
- Fast 25 ppm B&W printing
- Excellent for CAD and technical drawings
- Durable with 10000+ page track record
- Very heavy at 45.4 pounds
- Firmware blocks third-party cartridges
- Paper feed errors reported
13x19 inch max print
500 sheets across 3 trays
PrecisionCore Heat-Free
45.4 lbs
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 is the bigger brother of the WF-7820, and its standout feature is the massive 500-sheet paper capacity spread across three trays. For offices that print in high volume, this means loading different paper sizes in each tray and switching between them without manually changing paper. You could have letter-size in one tray, legal in another, and 13×19 wide format in the third.
Long-term durability is a strong point. I found multiple reports from users who have printed over 10,000 pages on their WF-7840 units with no major issues. The 4.3-inch touchscreen makes navigation straightforward, and the PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology delivers consistent quality without the warm-up delays of thermal inkjet systems.

Wide format printing up to 13×19 handles CAD drawings, technical documents, and marketing materials with good detail. The auto duplex scanning and copying through the 50-page ADF is a real time-saver for processing double-sided documents. Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity cover both wireless and wired network setups.

Best for High-Volume Office Printing
The WF-7840 is ideal for busy offices that need a workhorse printer capable of handling large print jobs without constant paper refills. Engineering firms that print CAD drawings alongside standard office documents will appreciate having dedicated trays for different paper sizes. The auto tray switching means you can print a letter-size document followed by a tabloid-size drawing without touching the printer.
The 45.4-pound weight means you need a sturdy surface and should plan your placement carefully. Once set up, though, it stays put and works reliably.
Firmware and Ink Compatibility
Like other Epson WorkForce models, firmware updates have been known to block third-party ink cartridges. Several users recommend declining firmware updates to maintain compatibility with more affordable ink options. The trade-off is that you miss out on any improvements or bug fixes in newer firmware versions. This is a common concern across Epson’s current printer lineup.
9. Epson Expression Photo XP-980 – Compact All-in-One Photo Printer
- Excellent photo quality with 6-color inks
- Built-in scanner and copier add versatility
- Fast 4x6 photo in 11 seconds
- Compact 19.4-pound design
- Ink dries on print head causing clogging
- 11x17 paper loaded one sheet at a time
- Uses significant ink for maintenance
11x17 inch max print
6-Color Claria Photo HD inks
Built-in scanner/copier
19.4 lbs
The Epson Expression Photo XP-980 offers something rare in wide format printing: a compact all-in-one that includes a scanner and copier alongside its photo printing capabilities. At just 19.4 pounds and measuring 14 inches deep by 18.9 inches wide, this printer fits into spaces where other wide-format machines would not. The 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system delivers vibrant, accurate colors that look great on photo paper.
Photo printing speed is impressive, with 4×6 photos popping out in about 11 seconds. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes it easy to select photos, adjust settings, and initiate scans without a computer. Borderless printing up to 11×17 inches handles enlargements that look professional on the wall.

The built-in flatbed scanner and copier mean you do not need a separate machine for document scanning. Wi-Fi Direct allows you to print from your phone or tablet even without a router, which is handy for mobile photography workflows. The memory card slot lets you print directly from SD cards without transferring files to a computer first.

Best for Home Photo Printing
If you want a single machine that handles family photos, homework scanning, and occasional wide-format prints, the XP-980 covers all those needs in a compact package. It is well-suited for households where space is at a premium but you still want photo-quality output. The all-in-one functionality eliminates the need for a separate scanner.
The 120-sheet paper capacity is adequate for home use, though it will not keep up with heavy office printing demands. The auto-duplex feature saves paper on two-sided documents.
Ink Maintenance Requirements
The most common complaint about this printer is ink head clogging. If the printer sits unused for more than a few days, the ink can dry on the print head, requiring cleaning cycles that waste ink. If you print at least a couple of times per week, this should not be a major issue. But for occasional printers, the maintenance ink consumption can be frustrating and costly over time.
10. Canon PIXMA iP8720 – Affordable 13-inch Photo Printer
- Excellent photo quality up to 13x19
- 6-color ink with gray for B&W photos
- Handles heavy paper up to 140lb watercolor paper
- Great value for photo enthusiasts
- Wi-Fi connection can be unreliable
- No LCD screen interface
- Manual dual-sided printing
13x19 inch max print
6-Color ink system
9600x2400 dpi
18.6 lbs
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 has been a reliable choice for photo enthusiasts for years, and it continues to earn strong reviews with a 4.1 rating across over 2,500 user reviews. The 6-color ink system includes a dedicated gray cartridge that produces impressive black-and-white prints, something many budget photo printers struggle with. At 9600×2400 dpi maximum resolution, the detail in prints is excellent.
This printer handles a wide range of paper types, including heavy media like 140-pound watercolor paper, which opens up possibilities for fine art printing. The 13×19 maximum print size gives you plenty of room for enlargements. At just 18.6 pounds and with a slim profile of only 6.3 inches tall, it slides easily onto a shelf or desk.

Wireless printing via Wi-Fi works well once configured, though some users report occasional connection drops. There is no LCD screen, so all settings adjustments are handled through your computer or mobile device. The auto power on/off feature helps save energy when the printer is not in use.

Best for Budget-Conscious Photographers
The iP8720 is one of the most affordable ways to get professional-quality 13×19 photo prints at home. If you are just getting started with printing your own photographs and want to see if it is worth the investment before spending more on a higher-end machine, this is an excellent starting point. The print quality genuinely surprises people who are used to drugstore photo prints.
The 150-sheet paper tray holds enough for regular use, and the compact design means it will not take over your workspace. CD and DVD printing is a bonus feature that some users find handy for creating custom discs.
Connectivity and Usability
Without an LCD screen, you rely entirely on the Canon print software or mobile app for status and settings. The setup process requires some technical knowledge, particularly for Wi-Fi configuration. Once connected, printing from computers and phones is straightforward. For the best experience, use a wired USB connection for initial setup, then switch to wireless once everything is configured.
11. Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 – 24-inch Desktop Roll Printer
- Comes with 280 ml of ink included
- Intuitive tiltable touchscreen
- Easy-to-refill ink tanks
- Good for poster printing
- No duplex printing
- Driver issues with some US paper sizes
- Slow in high quality mode
24-inch desktop roll printer
4-Color ink system
280 ml ink included
71 lbs
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 is a 24-inch desktop roll printer designed for offices that need poster and large document printing capability. One of its standout selling points is that it ships with 280 ml of ink included, which is the most ink included with any printer in its class. This means you can start printing right away without an immediate ink purchase.
The 4-color ink system delivers crisp text and vibrant images suitable for posters, signs, and presentations. The tiltable touchscreen control panel includes animated installation guides that walk you through setup. Top and front interior access makes maintenance and ink refills straightforward without having to move the printer.

Connectivity options include high-speed USB, Ethernet, and built-in Wi-Fi. The printer is ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Gold rated for energy efficiency, consuming just 28 watts during operation. At 71 pounds and 44 inches deep, you need substantial desk or floor space for this unit.

Best for In-House Poster and Sign Printing
Small businesses, schools, and retail stores that regularly produce their own posters, signs, and displays will find the TC-21 practical and cost-effective. The roll paper feed handles long prints continuously, and the automatic sheet feeder provides a second paper path for standard-size media. Having both roll and sheet capability in one machine adds flexibility.
The included 280 ml of ink gives you a generous starting supply, reducing the initial total cost of ownership compared to competitors that ship with starter cartridges that last only a short time.
Software and Driver Considerations
Some users have reported driver limitations with specific US paper sizes, including the common 12×18 ARCH B size not being supported. The driver software has some localization issues with English language errors that suggest it was not fully adapted for the US market. If you work with non-standard paper sizes, verify compatibility before purchasing. Canon’s support has been responsive to these issues, but fixes may require driver updates.
12. Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 – Professional Supertank All-in-One
- Extremely low cost per page at about 2 cents
- 500-sheet paper capacity across 3 trays
- 25 ppm for both B&W and color
- Fast wide-format prints and scans
- Wi-Fi printing can be unreliable
- Large and heavy requiring substantial space
- Initialization uses about 20% of ink
13x19 inch max print
25 ppm B&W and color
500-sheet capacity
46.1 lbs
The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 sits at the top of Epson’s EcoTank Pro lineup, combining wide format printing up to 13×19 with professional-grade features. The standout spec is the incredibly low cost per page: approximately 2 cents per color ISO page, compared to about 14 cents with cartridge-based printers. For offices that print in volume, this difference compounds dramatically over months and years.
The 500-sheet paper capacity across three trays means you can load different paper sizes and let the printer switch automatically. Print speeds of 25 pages per minute for both black and white and color output keep pace with demanding workloads. The pigment-based DURABrite inks produce crisp text and vibrant graphics that resist water and fading.

Automatic duplex printing and scanning save paper and time. The printer handles borderless prints up to 11×17 inches and wide-format prints up to 13×19. The 2-year limited warranty with registration provides longer coverage than the standard 1-year warranty on most consumer printers.

Best for High-Volume Professional Use
Offices and businesses that print hundreds of pages per week will see the most benefit from the ET-16650. The combination of fast print speeds, high paper capacity, and ultra-low ink costs makes it one of the most economical wide-format printers to operate over time. Each set of replacement ink bottles produces up to 7,500 black pages or 6,000 color pages before you need to restock.
Wide format capability handles oversized spreadsheets, marketing materials, and presentation documents that standard printers cannot accommodate. The all-in-one functionality with fax capability covers every office document need.
Setup and Network Reliability
The initial setup process consumes roughly 20% of the included ink for priming the system, which is standard for EcoTank printers but still catches some users off guard. Wi-Fi connectivity has been inconsistent for some users, with occasional drops requiring printer reinstallation. For the most reliable connection, use the Ethernet port for wired networking. The printer is large at 46.1 pounds, so plan your placement carefully and get help with lifting during setup.
How to Choose the Best Wide Format Printer for Your Needs
Picking the right wide format printer comes down to understanding what you need it to do, how much you print, and what your ongoing budget looks like. I have broken down the key factors below to help you make the right choice. For more specialized photo printing guidance, see our guide to the best photo printers.
Print Width and Media Size
The first question to answer is how wide you need to print. Most consumer and prosumer wide format printers max out at 13×19 inches, which works for photography, small posters, and tabloid-size documents. If you need 17-inch or wider output for professional photography or fine art, look at the Canon imagePROGRAF series. For architectural and engineering drawings at 24 inches or wider, a plotter like the HP DesignJet or Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 is the right tool.
Also consider paper handling. Roll-fed printers like the DesignJet T210 and TC-21 handle continuous printing of long documents and banners. Sheet-fed printers are simpler but require manual paper loading for each print. Some printers, like the Canon TC-21, offer both roll and sheet feeding for maximum flexibility.
Ink System and Cost Per Page
Ink costs are where wide format printers can surprise you with ongoing expenses. Cartridge-based printers like the Epson XP-15000, Canon iP8720, and Canon PRO-200S have higher per-page costs. EcoTank models like the ET-15000, ET-8550, and ET-16650 offer dramatically lower ink costs over time. Our guide to the best tank printers covers these savings in detail.
Pigment-based inks, found in the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 and Epson ET-16650, offer better longevity and water resistance. Dye-based inks, used in the Canon PRO-200S and Epson photo printers, produce more vibrant colors on glossy paper. For archival prints that need to last decades, pigment inks are the safer choice.
Color vs Black-and-White Printing
If you print primarily in color, a 6-color or 8-color ink system will give you the best results. Printers with dedicated gray cartridges, like the Canon iP8720, Epson ET-8550, and Epson XP-15000, produce much better black-and-white prints than printers that create gray from composite colored inks. For professional monochrome photography, the Canon PRO-1100 with its dedicated gray inks is the gold standard.
Connectivity and Software
Modern wide format printers offer Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. For office environments, Ethernet provides the most reliable connection. Wi-Fi is convenient for home use but can be inconsistent, as noted in reviews of several Epson models. Check software compatibility with your operating system, especially if you use macOS or Linux, as some printer drivers have limited support outside of Windows.
Mobile printing apps vary in quality. Epson’s Connect app and HP’s Smart app both get decent reviews, but some Canon users report software issues with non-standard paper sizes. If you print from mobile devices frequently, test the app before committing to a printer.
Space and Weight Requirements
Wide format printers are larger and heavier than standard printers. The compact models like the Epson XP-15000 and XP-980 weigh under 20 pounds and fit on a desk. Professional models like the Canon PRO-1100 at 83 pounds and the HP DesignJet T210 at 60 pounds require dedicated furniture and are not meant to be moved once placed. Measure your available space carefully before ordering, and account for paper feed and output clearance.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of wide format printers?
Wide format printers have several drawbacks worth considering. They are significantly larger and heavier than standard printers, requiring dedicated space. Ink costs can be high, especially for cartridge-based models. Maintenance is more involved, with print heads that can clog if the printer sits unused for extended periods. Professional-grade models may need IT support for network setup and troubleshooting. Additionally, wide format paper and media are more expensive and not as readily available as standard letter-size paper.
What printer prints 13×19?
Several printers in this guide handle 13×19 inch printing. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000, Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550, Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000, Canon PIXMA iP8720, Canon PIXMA PRO-200S, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840, and Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 all support 13×19 inch output. The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 are particularly strong choices for photo-quality 13×19 prints.
What printer has 11×17 paper size?
Most wide format printers support 11×17 inch (tabloid) paper. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840, Epson Expression Photo XP-980, and Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 all handle 11×17 printing with borderless capability. The Epson Expression Photo XP-980 is a compact option if 11×17 is your maximum needed size, as it includes a built-in scanner and copier in a small footprint.
What printer is best for large prints?
For large prints, the best printer depends on your use case. For professional photography and fine art up to 17×22 inches, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 produces gallery-quality output. For 24-inch architectural and engineering prints, the HP DesignJet T210 is purpose-built for technical documents. For the best balance of quality and value at 13×19, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 offers excellent photo quality with low ongoing ink costs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Wide Format Printers
Finding the best wide format printers in 2026 means matching the machine to your specific needs and budget. For professional photographers who demand gallery-quality output, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is the clear winner with its 11-ink system and stunning print quality. For most people who want a balance of wide format capability and value, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 offers all-in-one functionality with ink savings that add up over time. And for budget-conscious buyers who still want excellent photo prints, the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 delivers quality at an accessible price.
Before you buy, think about your ongoing ink costs, available space, and how frequently you will use the printer. A printer that sits unused for weeks will likely develop clogging issues, so choose one that matches your actual printing habits. For more home office printing guidance, browse our home office printers section for additional recommendations.
