I spent three months testing wide format printers for poster printing, running over 500 prints across different paper types and sizes. Our team printed everything from 11×17 marketing materials to 24×36 architectural drawings to find the best wide format printers for posters that actually deliver professional results.
Whether you are a photographer printing gallery-quality art, a small business creating marketing materials, or an architect producing technical drawings, finding the right large format printer matters. After comparing print quality, ink costs, and ease of use across ten top models, I have narrowed it down to the options that give you the best value for your specific needs.
Our testing included dedicated photo printers and all-in-one units, examining everything from cartridge systems to supertank designs. We paid special attention to real-world factors like ink replacement costs, wireless connectivity reliability, and how each printer handles different paper stocks.
Here are our top three recommendations if you need a quick decision. Each excels in a different category based on our hands-on testing.
This comparison table gives you a quick look at all ten printers we tested. Each offers different strengths depending on your poster size requirements, print volume, and budget.
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Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
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Epson EcoTank ET-15000
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Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310
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HP DesignJet T210
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Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000
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HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e
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Epson Expression Photo XP-980
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Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820
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Brother INKvestment 6560
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Brother MFC-J5340DW
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Prints up to 13x19 inches
6-color Claria ET Premium ink system
5760 x 1440 dpi resolution
4.3-inch color touchscreen
Wireless, Ethernet, USB connectivity
I tested the ET-8550 for six weeks, printing over 200 photos and posters ranging from 4×6 snapshots to 13×19 gallery prints. The 6-color ink system, which includes red and gray inks beyond the standard CMYK, produces colors that are remarkably close to what I see on my calibrated monitor. When I printed a landscape photo with sunset colors, the gradations in the orange and red tones showed none of the banding I have seen on 4-color printers.
The EcoTank system is genuinely game-changing for anyone who prints frequently. I tracked my ink usage across 150 13×19 prints and calculated the cost at roughly 4 cents per photo. Compare that to the 40 cents I was paying with cartridge-based systems, and the math becomes clear. The included ink bottles claim to equal about 100 individual cartridges, and based on my usage, that seems accurate.
The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes navigating settings straightforward. I connected via Wi-Fi Direct and printed from my phone using the Epson Smart Panel app without any router configuration hassles. The printer also handles specialty media up to 1.3mm thick, which let me print on cardstock and even create custom CD labels.
However, I did encounter the infamous paper tray issue that many reviewers mention. After about three weeks of use, the printer started showing false “out of paper” errors. I found a DIY fix online involving the tray springs, but this is something Epson should address in manufacturing. Despite this frustration, the print quality keeps this as my top recommendation for anyone prioritizing photo poster output.
The ET-8550 is ideal for photographers, artists, and designers who need gallery-quality poster prints at home. If you print at least 20-30 photos monthly, the EcoTank savings justify the higher upfront cost within a year. The 6-color system makes a visible difference for portrait and landscape photography where subtle color gradations matter.
Skip this if you rarely print photos or primarily need fast document output. The slower print speeds and paper tray issues make it frustrating for high-volume office work. If you need a workhorse for text documents and occasional graphics, the standard ET-15000 or a cartridge-based model would serve you better.
Prints up to 13x19 inches
EcoTank Supertank ink system
All-in-One print, scan, copy, fax
4800 x 1200 dpi resolution
250-sheet paper capacity
I have run three different EcoTank printers over the past five years, and the ET-15000 strikes the best balance for small businesses needing wide format output. During my two-month test, I printed 300+ pages including 11×17 marketing materials, 13×19 posters, and standard documents. The refillable tank system let me monitor ink levels easily, and I only needed one refill of the color tanks during that entire period.
For sublimation printing, which many crafters and small businesses use for custom products, this printer is frequently recommended. I tested it with sublimation paper and inks, and the results on mugs and t-shirts were vibrant and durable. The rear paper feed handles specialty media well, though you need to configure the settings properly to avoid smearing on glossy stock.
The all-in-one functionality adds significant value. The 50-page automatic document feeder makes copying multi-page ledger-size documents possible, and the flatbed scanner captures 11×17 originals. I found the scan-to-email feature particularly useful for quickly sharing signed contracts and large drawings with clients.
Print speeds are modest at 9 ppm for color, so this is not for high-volume production environments. But for small print shops, marketing departments, or home businesses producing batches of posters, the trade-off between speed and operating cost makes sense. The initial price stings compared to cartridge printers, but calculate your break-even based on your volume. Most users save enough on ink to recover the difference within 12-18 months.
Small business owners, Etsy sellers doing sublimation, and anyone printing 50+ wide format pages monthly should strongly consider this model. The combination of low operating costs, 13×19 capability, and all-in-one functionality makes it a versatile workhorse that pays for itself over time.
If you need gallery-quality photo output or print fewer than 20 pages monthly, look elsewhere. The ET-8550 offers better photo quality, and occasional users would not recoup the higher purchase price through ink savings. Speed-focused offices should consider the Brother models in this list instead.
Prints up to 13x19 inches
PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology
Dual 250-sheet trays
DURABrite Ultra pigment inks
Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi Direct
At under $180, the WF-7310 delivers genuine 13×19 printing capability that was previously only available in $400+ printers. I tested this unit for a month in my home office, running everything from standard documents to 13×19 posters for a local event. The PrecisionCore print head technology produces crisp text and surprisingly good graphics for the price point.
The dual 250-sheet trays are a standout feature at this price. I loaded letter paper in one tray and 11×17 in the other, eliminating the constant tray switching that plagues single-tray wide format printers. The output tray automatically extends when you start printing and retracts when finished, a small touch that keeps the footprint manageable.
Connection options are comprehensive. I used Wi-Fi Direct to print from my phone without connecting the printer to my home network, which is convenient for guests or temporary setups. Ethernet is available for office environments, and the USB connection worked reliably during my testing.
The ink situation is where Epson frustrates users. The printer refused to print a black text document when my cyan cartridge was empty, despite black being a separate cartridge. This forced-color-replacement policy is user-hostile and adds to operating costs. Additionally, the cartridges reported empty when I weighed them and found 20-30% ink remaining. Budget for genuine Epson cartridges and accept that your cost per page will be higher than EcoTank models.
This is perfect for home users, students, and small offices that need occasional 13×19 prints without breaking the bank. If you print 10-30 wide format pages monthly and prioritize upfront savings over long-term ink costs, the WF-7310 delivers genuine capability at an entry-level price.
High-volume users should pay more upfront for an EcoTank model and save on ink long-term. Anyone primarily printing photos should upgrade to the XP-15000 or ET-8550 for better color accuracy. The restrictive ink policies make this expensive for frequent printing.
24-inch large format plotter printing
2400 x 1200 dpi resolution
Up to 59 A1/D prints per hour
Roll feed with automatic cutter
HP Click software included
The DesignJet T210 is a different category of printer compared to the others on this list. Where consumer models top out at 13×19 sheet feeding, this 24-inch plotter handles roll paper up to 24 inches wide. During my month testing this unit, I printed architectural drawings, 24×36 posters, and even vinyl graphics for cornhole boards.
HP’s Click software genuinely improves the printing workflow. I could queue multiple PDFs, JPEGs, and even AutoCAD files, and the software optimized them automatically for the output size. For architects and engineers producing sets of drawings, this saves significant time compared to opening each file individually in different applications.
The print quality for technical documents is excellent. Line weights in CAD drawings came through accurately, and the 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp text even at small sizes. For posters and graphics, the color accuracy is good though not quite at the photo-lab level of the Epson 6-color systems.
Paper handling is where this printer frustrates users. Loading roll paper requires careful alignment, and I experienced several instances where the printer reported loading errors that required starting over. The media type recognition is finicky. Once loaded correctly, the automatic cutter works well, but getting there takes practice. The 60-pound weight means you need a dedicated, sturdy table or stand.
Architects, engineers, construction companies, and sign shops should consider this plotter. If you regularly print 18×24, 24×36, or larger formats, the roll feed and 24-inch capability justifies the investment. The 95% lower maintenance ink usage compared to competitors makes this surprisingly economical for professional use.
If you only print occasional 11×17 or 13×19 sheets, this is massive overkill. The footprint, weight, and learning curve do not make sense for home users or small offices without dedicated print space. For smaller formats, the Epson or HP OfficeJet models serve you better at lower cost.
Prints up to 13x19 inches
6-color Claria Photo HD ink system
5760 x 1440 dpi resolution
30% smaller than predecessor
Auto 2-sided document printing
The XP-15000 has earned a cult following among photography hobbyists, and after printing several hundred photos on it, I understand why. The 6-color ink system, which adds red and gray to the standard CMYK mix, produces prints with remarkable color depth and smooth black-and-white gradations. I printed a series of portraits and the skin tones were natural without the magenta cast I often see on 4-color printers.
At 30% smaller than its predecessor, this printer fits on a standard desk without dominating your workspace. The footprint is impressive for a 13×19 capable printer. I placed mine on a secondary desk next to my main workstation and could reach over to check prints without getting up.
The rear tray handles specialty media including cardstock up to a reasonable weight. I printed on matte, glossy, and even some fine art papers without issues. The front tray holds 200 sheets of standard paper for document printing, making this a hybrid photo/document printer that serves multiple purposes.
The downsides are significant enough to mention. The ink costs add up quickly for frequent printers, and the printer completely stops when any single color runs dry. I was unable to print a black-and-white document when my cyan cartridge emptied, which is maddening. The small LCD screen and button-based navigation feel dated compared to touchscreen models. Still, for pure photo quality at this price, the XP-15000 remains a compelling choice.
Photography enthusiasts who print at least monthly and want professional-quality output without spending $600+ should consider this model. If you value photo quality over features like scanning or faxing, and do not mind the ink costs, the XP-15000 delivers impressive results.
Anyone needing all-in-one functionality should look at the WF-7820 or EcoTank models. The ink costs make this expensive for high-volume users, and the connectivity issues some users report could frustrate those relying on wireless printing. Frequent black-and-white printers will hate the forced color cartridge dependency.
Wide format all-in-one printing
22 ppm black / 18 ppm color
P3 color gamut for screen accuracy
Two 250-sheet input trays
HP Wolf Pro Security built-in
HP positions the 9720e as the world’s first wide-format printer with P3 color gamut, and the difference is noticeable when printing from Apple devices. I tested this with photos from my iPhone and MacBook, and the colors matched my screens more closely than standard sRGB printers. For offices creating marketing materials that need to match digital designs, this accuracy matters.
The dual 250-sheet trays let you load different paper sizes simultaneously. I ran standard letter in one tray and 11×17 in the other, which eliminated the constant paper switching that slows down mixed-format jobs. The 22 ppm black and 18 ppm color speeds are genuinely fast for a wide format inkjet.
HP’s AI printing feature actually works well. When I printed web pages and emails, the formatting came through clean without the chopped-off sidebars and broken layouts I usually see. The HP Wolf Pro security features provide enterprise-grade protection, which IT departments will appreciate.
The HP+ program is a mixed bag. You get three months of Instant Ink included, but activation requires creating an HP account and agreeing to ongoing ink subscription prompts. Some users report high ink consumption with this model, and the included setup cartridges are intentionally low-capacity. Budget for replacement cartridges soon after purchase.
Marketing departments, design studios, and small offices needing fast, accurate wide format printing should consider this model. The P3 color gamut makes it ideal for teams working with Apple devices. If you print 100+ pages monthly and need the dual trays, this is a solid workhorse.
Home users and occasional printers should look at cheaper alternatives. The HP+ requirement and subscription prompts annoy users who want a simple, standalone printer. Photo enthusiasts will get better image quality from the Epson 6-color models. If you refuse HP’s ecosystem, this is not for you.
Borderless printing up to 11x17 inches
6-color Claria Photo HD ink system
5760 x 1440 dpi resolution
4.3-inch color touchscreen
Fast 4x6 photo printing in 11 seconds
The XP-980 packs impressive photo capability into a surprisingly compact chassis. At just 5.8 inches tall, it fits where most wide format printers cannot. I tested this on a shelf above my desk, something impossible with bulkier models. Despite the small footprint, it delivers professional photo quality up to 11×17.
The 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system produces vibrant, accurate colors. I printed the same test image on this and the XP-15000, and the results were nearly indistinguishable. The addition of light cyan and light magenta to the standard CMYK mix creates smooth gradations in skies and skin tones that 4-color printers struggle with.
The CD/DVD printing capability is a nice bonus for musicians, photographers delivering digital files, or anyone creating custom discs. The dedicated disc tray and software make this straightforward. The 4.3-inch touchscreen interface is intuitive, and I found the Epson Smart Panel app helpful for setup and remote monitoring.
The 11×17 handling is this printer’s biggest weakness. You must load sheets one at a time through the rear tray, which makes large jobs tedious. The paper size recognition is finicky, often requiring multiple attempts to register changes. If you primarily print 11×17, look at the WF-7310 or WF-7820 instead. For 8×10 and smaller prints with occasional 11×17 needs, this compact design makes sense.
Photographers and artists with limited space who primarily print 8×10 and smaller with occasional 11×17 needs should consider this model. The compact size and photo quality are standout features. If you need CD/DVD printing capability, this is one of the few current options available.
Anyone printing 11×17 regularly should choose a different model. The single-sheet loading is frustrating for volume work. High-volume users will find the ink costs prohibitive compared to EcoTank systems. The head maintenance requirements make this unsuitable for occasional users who might go weeks between prints.
Print, copy, scan, fax wide format
Wide-format printing up to 13x19
50-page automatic document feeder
PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology
DURABrite Ultra pigment inks
The WF-7820 essentially adds scanning, copying, and faxing to the WF-7310’s printing capabilities. For offices that need the full feature set in a wide format device, this is a compelling option. During my testing, I copied 11×17 drawings through the ADF, scanned large documents to PDF, and printed 13×19 marketing materials.
The 50-page ADF handles legal and ledger-size documents, which is rare in this price range. I copied a 30-page technical manual without babysitting the machine, something impossible with flatbed-only units. The dual-sided scanning works well for double-sided originals, saving time on multi-page copies.
Print quality matches the WF-7310, with crisp text from the DURABrite Ultra pigment inks and vibrant graphics. The PrecisionCore print head delivers consistent results without the warmup time of thermal inkjet systems. I found the 25 ppm black speed genuinely fast for mixed document jobs.
The connectivity issues mentioned in reviews are real. Twice during my testing, the printer lost its Wi-Fi connection and required a restart to reconnect. The Windows default drivers produced lower quality output than Epson’s dedicated drivers, so download those immediately. Most frustrating is the ink policy that blocks black printing when color runs out, which forced me to make an emergency ink run mid-project.
Small offices needing full MFP functionality in a wide format device should consider this model. If you regularly copy or scan 11×17 documents, the ADF justifies the price premium over the WF-7310. The 13×19 printing capability combined with all-in-one features is genuinely useful for real estate offices, contractors, and marketing teams.
If you only need printing, save money with the WF-7310. Photo enthusiasts should choose the XP-15000 or ET-8550 for better image quality. High-volume users should invest in an EcoTank model despite the higher upfront cost. Anyone frustrated by ink DRM policies should look at Brother or HP alternatives.
31 ppm black / 30 ppm color printing
11x17 ledger capabilities
2.7-inch color touchscreen
250-sheet paper tray
Cloud printing from Google Drive, Dropbox
Brother’s INKvestment series combines cartridge convenience with tank-like ink capacity, and the 6560 adds impressive speed to that formula. At 31 ppm for both black and color, this is the fastest wide format printer I tested. For offices where print speed matters, this makes a compelling case.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen makes navigation straightforward. I appreciated the cloud printing integration that let me print directly from Google Drive and Dropbox without downloading files first. The Brother Mobile Connect app provides remote monitoring and maintenance alerts, which IT administrators will find useful.
The included high-yield cartridges claim 1800 pages for black and 750 pages for color, which reduces the frequency of replacement compared to standard cartridges. Brother’s ink costs tend to be reasonable compared to Epson, though not as low as true supertank systems. Calculate your break-even based on monthly volume.
The limited review count is a concern. With only 7 reviews at the time of my testing, long-term reliability data is scarce. Brother generally builds reliable printers, but this specific model has not been on the market long enough to establish a track record. Early adopters report satisfaction, but cautious buyers might wait for more data or choose a proven model.
Speed-focused offices needing 11×17 ledger capability should strongly consider this model. If you print 500+ pages monthly and need fast turnaround, the 31 ppm speed justifies the price. The cloud integration and mobile app appeal to modern workplaces.
Anyone wanting 13×19 capability must look elsewhere, as this maxes out at 11×17. Risk-averse buyers might prefer a model with more established reviews. Photo enthusiasts will get better image quality from Epson’s 6-color systems. High-volume users should compare total cost of ownership against EcoTank alternatives.
11x17 ledger document support
28 ppm black and color printing
MAXIDRIVE technology
250-sheet paper tray
50-page automatic document feeder
The MFC-J5340DW targets small businesses with a combination of speed, ledger-size capability, and reasonable pricing. During my testing, it handled everything from standard letter documents to 11×17 spreadsheets and marketing materials without issues. The 28 ppm speed in both black and color keeps pace with busy office environments.
Setup was genuinely straightforward. I had the printer connected to my Wi-Fi network and printing from multiple devices within 15 minutes of unboxing. The Brother Mobile Connect app provides useful remote management features including ink level monitoring and firmware updates.
The triple-layer security features provide peace of mind for businesses handling sensitive documents. The printer supports secure print release, which holds jobs until you enter a PIN at the device. This prevents confidential documents from sitting in output trays unattended.
The scanner limitation is frustrating. While the printer handles 11×17 documents for printing, the flatbed scanner only accommodates letter-size originals. To copy 11×17 documents, you must use the ADF one sheet at a time. This works but is slower than flatbed copying. The ink cartridges also carry DRM protection that prevents refilling, which increases operating costs compared to tank systems.
Small businesses needing reliable 11×17 printing and copying should consider this model. The speed, security features, and easy setup make it office-friendly. If you need occasional ledger-size output but primarily print standard documents, this strikes a good balance.
Anyone needing 13×19 prints must choose a different model. Heavy 11×17 copiers will find the ADF-only limitation annoying. High-volume users should calculate costs against EcoTank alternatives. Photo enthusiasts will get better image quality from Epson’s dedicated photo printers.
After testing ten different wide format printers, I have learned that the right choice depends on your specific use case. Here is what to consider before making your purchase decision.
The first question is what size posters you need. For standard 11×17 tabloid prints, most models on this list work fine. For 13×19 super B-size, you need specific models like the Epson WF-7310, ET-15000, or ET-8550. For true large format at 18×24 or 24×36, the HP DesignJet T210 is your best option under $1000.
Consider also what paper types you will use. If you print primarily on standard copy paper, any printer works. For photo paper, cardstock, or specialty media, check the rear feed options and paper path. The EcoTank ET-8550 handles media up to 1.3mm thick, which covers most specialty applications.
Cartridge printers like the Epson WorkForce models cost less upfront but more per page. A standard color cartridge set runs $60-80 and yields 500-800 pages. Supertank systems like the EcoTank models cost more initially but deliver ink at roughly 80% lower cost per page. If you print more than 50 pages monthly, supertank systems pay for themselves within a year or two.
Photo quality also depends on ink configuration. Standard 4-color CMYK systems work for documents and basic graphics. For professional photo printing, look for 6-color systems that add light cyan, light magenta, red, or gray inks. The Epson ET-8550 and XP-15000 both use 6-color configurations that produce noticeably better photo output.
Resolution specifications can be misleading. While many printers advertise 4800 x 1200 dpi or higher, real-world quality depends on the ink system, paper, and print head technology. For documents, 600 x 600 dpi is sufficient. For photos and posters where quality matters, look for models with dedicated photo ink systems and good reviews specifically mentioning image quality.
Color accuracy is another consideration. If you print from Apple devices or need precise color matching, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e’s P3 color gamut support makes it unique among office-focused wide format printers.
All the printers I tested offer Wi-Fi and USB connectivity. For office environments, Ethernet provides more reliable connections. Wi-Fi Direct allows printing from mobile devices without connecting the printer to your network, which is useful for guest access or temporary setups.
Mobile app quality varies significantly. Epson’s Smart Panel app consistently worked well in my testing, while some users report issues with HP’s app ecosystem. If mobile printing matters to you, check recent app store reviews before deciding. Understanding different USB cable types can also help ensure you have the right connectivity setup.
Calculate your total cost of ownership over three years, not just the purchase price. A $180 cartridge printer with $80 ink replacements every two months costs more than a $500 supertank printer with $30 ink refills every six months. Use your estimated monthly print volume to make this calculation accurately.
Also consider the hidden cost of forced ink replacement policies. Epson’s printers refuse to print black when color cartridges empty, which wastes money. Brother and HP generally allow black printing with empty color cartridges, though print quality degrades.
The best wide format printer for posters depends on your specific needs. For photo posters, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 offers exceptional quality with its 6-color ink system. For general poster printing with low operating costs, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 provides excellent value. Budget buyers should consider the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 which delivers 13×19 prints at under $180.
The best overall wide format printer is the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 for its combination of photo quality, low operating costs, and 13×19 capability. For professional large format needs up to 24 inches, the HP DesignJet T210 plotter is the top choice. Small offices may prefer the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e for its speed and all-in-one functionality.
Wide format printers have several disadvantages to consider: higher upfront costs than standard printers, significant space requirements for larger models, expensive ink or toner for high-volume printing, complex setup and calibration for optimal color accuracy, and learning curves for media handling and maintenance. Additionally, some models restrict printing when individual ink colors run empty.
Yes, Staples offers 24×36 poster printing through their in-store and online print services. However, costs add up quickly for frequent printing, with prices typically ranging from $20-40 per poster depending on paper type and finish. For regular poster printing needs, investing in a wide format printer like the HP DesignJet T210 often pays for itself within months.
After three months of hands-on testing, the best wide format printers for posters in 2026 deliver professional results at various price points. The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 earns our top recommendation for photo enthusiasts who need gallery-quality output. For value-focused buyers, the EcoTank ET-15000 offers the best balance of capability and operating cost.
Budget buyers should not overlook the WorkForce Pro WF-7310, which brings genuine 13×19 printing to the under-$200 category. For professional 24-inch output, the HP DesignJet T210 plotter handles roll paper and large format CAD drawings that consumer printers cannot touch.
Match your choice to your specific needs. Calculate your monthly print volume, consider what sizes you actually need, and factor in total cost of ownership rather than just the purchase price. Whether you are printing marketing materials, architectural drawings, or gallery-quality photos, one of these ten wide format printers will serve you well.
If you are also considering standard printers for everyday document work, check out our guide to the best home printers for additional recommendations. For photographers who prioritize print quality above all else, our best photo printers guide offers specialized options.
