From stunning posters to precise CAD drawings, find the perfect large format printer for your professional needs.
HP DesignJet Studio 24
Stylish design meets pro quality
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100
11-color professional quality
HP DesignJet T650
Fast, precise technical prints
HP DesignJet T210
Entry-level wide format
Wide format printers have become essential tools for architects, engineers, photographers, artists, and businesses that need to produce large-scale prints in-house. In 2026, the technology has advanced to deliver stunning quality, faster speeds, and lower per-print costs than ever before.
Whether you need precise CAD drawings for construction projects, vibrant posters for marketing, or gallery-quality fine art prints, there's a wide format printer designed for your specific needs. We've tested the leading models across key categories to help you find the perfect match.
Entry-level professional width. Perfect for posters, presentations, and smaller architectural drawings.
Common sizes: 18x24", 24x36"
Standard for CAD and engineering. Handles D and E-size prints for construction and architectural work.
Common sizes: 24x36", 36x48"
Professional production level. For signage, banners, and high-volume commercial printing.
Common sizes: 44x60", custom lengths
Wide format printers are essential for architects and engineers
The HP DesignJet Studio combines stunning design with professional performance. Available in wood or steel finishes, it looks at home in any modern design studio. But don't let the aesthetics fool you - this printer delivers exceptional quality for posters, presentations, and graphics up to 24 inches wide.
✨ Standout Feature: Available in high-tech wood or steel designs that make a statement in any studio!
HP DesignJet Studio 24"
~$2,099
Design studio essential
When gallery-quality prints are non-negotiable, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100 delivers. Its 11-color LUCIA PRO pigment ink system produces an astonishing color gamut with smooth gradations and rich blacks. Photographers and fine artists worldwide trust this printer for exhibition-quality output.
🎨 Perfect for: Fine art prints, photography, gallery exhibitions, and archival reproductions.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2100
~$1,695
Gallery-quality prints
Built for speed and precision, the HP DesignJet T650 is the workhorse of architectural and engineering firms. With print speeds up to 82 A1/D-size pages per hour and automatic sheet feeding, it keeps up with demanding project deadlines while maintaining sharp line work and accurate colors.
📐 Ideal for: Architects, engineers, construction firms, and anyone printing technical drawings.
HP DesignJet T650 36"
~$2,199
CAD & engineering champion
Starting out with wide format printing? The HP DesignJet T210 offers an accessible entry point without sacrificing quality. This compact 24-inch printer handles posters, CAD drawings, and presentations with ease. It's perfect for small businesses, education, and home offices that need occasional large format prints.
HP DesignJet T210 24"
~$999
Budget-friendly entry
| Feature | HP Studio 24 | Canon PRO-2100 | HP T650 36 | HP T210 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$2,099 | ~$1,695 | ~$2,199 | ~$999 |
| Max Width | 24" | 24" | 36" | 24" |
| Ink Colors | 4-color | 11-color | 4-color | 4-color |
| Best For | Design Studios | Fine Art/Photo | CAD/Engineering | Entry Level |
| Print Speed | 26 sec/A1 | Varies | 82 A1/hr | Moderate |
Need precise line work and fast turnaround? The HP DesignJet T650 handles technical drawings with speed and accuracy.
Recommended: HP T650 or T210
Color accuracy and archival quality are paramount. The Canon PRO-2100's 11-color system produces gallery-ready prints.
Recommended: Canon PRO-2100
Vibrant colors and professional finish for presentations and promotional materials. The HP Studio delivers quality with style.
Recommended: HP DesignJet Studio
Occasional large format needs on a budget? The HP T210 provides solid quality without the premium price.
Recommended: HP T210
If you only need prints up to 24" wide, save money with a 24" model. But if you ever need D-size (24x36") or larger architectural prints, invest in a 36" model from the start.
Look beyond the purchase price. High-capacity ink systems (like HP's 300ml cartridges) reduce per-print costs significantly over standard cartridges.
4-color systems are fine for CAD and line work. If you print photos or graphics, invest in a 6+ color system for smooth gradients and accurate colors.
Wide format printers are large. Measure your space carefully, and remember you'll need clearance for media loading and output. Floor-standing models may require dedicated floor space.
The terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, "wide format" refers to 18-24" printers, while "large format" typically means 36"+ printers. "Super wide" or "grand format" describes printers 60" and larger used for banners and signage.
Costs vary widely based on ink coverage, paper quality, and print size. A typical 24x36 poster might cost $2-5 in ink, plus paper costs of $0.50-3 depending on media type. Technical line drawings use less ink and cost less.
Yes, but quality varies significantly. 4-color CAD/technical printers produce acceptable photos but may show banding in gradients. For gallery-quality photos, choose a printer with 6+ colors and pigment-based inks designed for photography.
Most modern wide format printers have automatic printhead cleaning and maintenance routines. Regular printing (at least weekly) keeps ink flowing and prevents clogs. If used infrequently, some ink may be used for maintenance cycles.
Roll paper is more economical and allows custom-length prints. Cut sheets are convenient for standard sizes and don't require cutting. Most wide format printers support both, with automatic roll cutters for hands-free operation.
Choose the wide format printer that fits your workflow