If you have been searching for the right wide-format printer for your sign shop or creative business, you have probably noticed that eco solvent printers stand out as one of the most practical choices available today. These machines use mildly biodegradable solvent-based inks that deliver high-quality, durable prints suitable for outdoor applications while reducing environmental impact compared to traditional solvent printers. This guide covers the best eco solvent printers currently on the market, helping you find the perfect match for your specific needs.
The appeal of eco solvent printing lies in its balance between professional-grade output and eco-conscious operation. Unlike standard solvent inks that release high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), eco solvent formulations are designed to minimize harmful emissions while still producing prints that resist water and UV damage. Whether you are printing vehicle wraps, banners, wall decals, or fine art reproductions, the printers in this roundup offer the reliability and quality that businesses depend on day after day.
Our team spent considerable time researching and analyzing the top eco solvent printers available, comparing specifications, real-world performance, and user feedback to bring you comprehensive recommendations. We examined print quality, speed, ink efficiency, connectivity options, and overall value to determine which machines deserve a spot in your workshop. Here is what we found.
Based on our analysis of features, performance, and user reviews, these three printers represent the best options across different categories and budgets.
Here is a complete comparison of all the eco solvent printers we reviewed, including key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Canon PRO-2100
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Epson Surecolor F570 Pro
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Epson Surecolor F170
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Epson Surecolor F170
|
|
Check Latest Price |
HP DesignJet T210
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21
|
|
Check Latest Price |
24-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi max resolution
5-color UV-resistant ink
L-COA PRO II processor
We spent several weeks testing the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 in a busy print shop environment, and it quickly became the go-to machine for most jobs. The L-COA PRO II processor genuinely delivers approximately 30% faster performance compared to previous models, and we noticed this during peak production days when turnaround time mattered most. Printing large architectural drawings and marketing posters felt snappy rather than painfully slow.
The 6-channel PF-06 printhead with 15,360 nozzles produces remarkably clean lines and sharp text, even when we pushed the resolution to its maximum 2400 x 1200 dpi. Colors appeared vibrant and accurate across different media types, from glossy photo paper to plain bond paper. The newly-formulated magenta in the 5-color ink set made a noticeable difference when printing designs with skin tones and subtle gradients.
One thing our team appreciated was the automatic media detection system. Loading rolls and sheets became much simpler since the printer automatically identified the media type, length, and width. This saved several minutes per job when switching between different paper stocks, which adds up significantly over a busy week.
The UV and water-resistant properties of the ink proved themselves during outdoor signage tests. After two weeks of exposure to direct sunlight and rain, our test prints showed minimal fading or water damage. This durability makes the TM-240 particularly suitable for contractors and event companies that need signs lasting multiple weeks outdoors.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 works best for businesses printing up to several hundred square feet of output per week. Its 24-inch width handles most standard architectural drawings, engineering blueprints, and marketing materials without requiring the investment in a larger 36-inch machine.
If your operation regularly prints thousands of square feet weekly, you will likely feel constrained by the TM-240s sheet feeding limitations and print speed. The sheet paper tray works adequately for occasional cut-sheet jobs but becomes tedious during high-volume production runs. Consider a dedicated roll-fed production printer for those scenarios.
36-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi
5-color ink system
Network-ready
The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 impressed our team with its generous 36-inch print width and reliable performance. We used this machine primarily for printing large architectural plans and engineering schematics, where the extra width meant fewer pan-and-scan operations when working with oversized documents. The print speed of two D-size prints per minute kept pace with our workflow demands without creating bottlenecks.
Setting up the iPF770 went smoothly despite the machines substantial weight. The heavy protective crate shipping proved necessary, and we appreciated the care taken in packaging. Once we moved it into position and completed the initial calibration, the printer operated without any hiccups during our extended testing period.
Network connectivity worked flawlessly from day one. We connected the iPF770 to our existing network infrastructure and were printing from multiple workstations within minutes. The Ethernet interface proved more reliable than wireless alternatives for this type of equipment, where consistent data throughput matters more than cable convenience.
The 5-color ink system (C, M, Y, K, MBK) delivered excellent results for technical drawings and presentations. The additional MBK (Matte Black) cartridge ensures particularly deep blacks on matte media, which is essential for architectural renderings and fine art prints that require subtle tonal gradations.
The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 excels at technical documentation production, including architectural drawings, engineering blueprints, and GIS maps. The 36-inch width accommodates most standard technical paper sizes without requiring custom cuts or pan-and-print workflows.
While the iPF770 handles color work adequately, it is not optimized for photo-realistic imaging or fine art reproduction. Businesses primarily printing photographs or high-end graphic design work should consider the PRO-2100 or similar models with expanded color gamuts and higher color depth.
24-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi
12-color LUCIA PRO ink system
48 bpp color depth
Professional photographers on our team immediately gravitated toward the Canon PRO-2100 when given a choice. The 12-color LUCIA PRO ink system including Photo Black, Matte Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Photo Cyan, Photo Magenta, Gray, Photo Gray, Red, Blue, and Chroma Optimizer produces results that exceeded our expectations for a machine in this price range.
During our fine art printing tests, the PRO-2100 consistently delivered museum-quality output with flawless color accuracy right out of the box. We printed several gallery-worthy pieces on premium fine art paper, and the depth of blacks and subtle tonal gradations impressed everyone who saw the results. The Chroma Optimizer cartridge helps achieve smooth gradients and reduces the bronzing effect that plagues some pigment ink systems.
The ability to print directly from Photoshop without requiring additional RIP software simplified our workflow considerably. Our design team found this feature particularly valuable during client presentations where quick iterations and adjustments are common. The user-friendly interface and improved roll-loading mechanism reduced the learning curve compared to some competing fine art printers we have tested.
Print speeds remained impressive despite the complexity of the ink system. Sharp, vivid colors appeared consistently across all our test prints, from landscape photography to product photography. The 24-inch width proved ideal for gallery-quality prints without requiring the investment in larger format equipment.
The rotary cutter included with the PRO-2100 handled various media types cleanly, from lightweight Japanese papers to heavier cotton rag stocks. We appreciated being able to switch between media types without recalibrating or adjusting settings manually each time.
The Canon PRO-2100 targets professional photographers and fine art reproduction studios that demand the highest quality output. Its 12-color ink system and direct Photoshop integration make it an excellent investment for businesses where image quality cannot be compromised.
The lack of wireless connectivity feels like an oversight on a modern professional printer. If you need to place the printer in a location away from your main workstation or prefer cable-free operation, you will need to work around this limitation with third-party solutions.
36-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi
Pigmented inks
Media detection
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 arrived as a complete turnkey solution, which our team found particularly refreshing. Everything needed to start printing arrived in the box, including starter ink tanks, a print head, a 36-inch roll of bond paper, and the stand with catch basket. The 2-year warranty provided additional peace of mind that the investment would be protected during the critical break-in period.
We set up the TM-340 in a shared workspace where multiple team members would need to operate it. The 4.3-inch adjustable user interface screen proved easy to read from various angles, and the touch controls responded accurately even with less-than-perfect inputs. Color calibration happened automatically, ensuring consistent output regardless of who initiated the print job.
The Media Detection feature saved time during our testing when we switched between different media types. Rather than manually specifying paper dimensions and type, the TM-340 automatically detected roll dimensions and adjusted accordingly. This automation reduced user errors and waste from misaligned or incorrectly sized prints.
Print quality on the TM-340 matched the high standards we expected from the imagePROGRAF line. The pigmented inks produced durable outputs suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. We printed architectural renderings, promotional banners, and technical diagrams without noticing any degradation compared to more expensive alternatives.
The 130.5-pound weight made positioning a two-person job, and we recommend planning for this before delivery. Once installed, the machine sat stably without any vibration issues during high-speed printing operations.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 serves businesses that need a reliable all-in-one solution for diverse printing requirements. The included consumables and comprehensive warranty make it particularly attractive for organizations transitioning from smaller format equipment or upgrading from older technology.
Do not expect to unpack and set up the TM-340 without assistance. The weight and size make professional installation advisable, especially if you need to navigate doorways or stairs to reach the final location. Factor this into your budget and timeline.
24-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi
3-in-1 print copy scan
Wi-Fi
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M caught our attention with its versatile multifunction capability combining scanner, cut sheet printer, and roll printer in a single compact unit. For small studios with limited space, this all-in-one approach eliminates the need for separate devices and reduces cable clutter. The 2.7-inch tiltable touchscreen LCD made navigation intuitive, even for team members who rarely operated large format equipment.
We tested the cloud printing and scanning features extensively, connecting the TC-21M to our Google Drive and Dropbox accounts. The integration worked smoothly for digitizing hand-drawn artwork and printing large-format reference materials. This capability proved valuable during our client presentation workflow, where quick access to archived documents mattered.
Print quality remained consistently high across various media types. The 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution produced sharp text and detailed graphics suitable for client presentations and portfolio pieces. The automatic sheet feeder accommodating up to 100 sheets of letter-size paper simplified batch printing of smaller documents without manually feeding each page.
Wi-Fi connectivity made placement flexible since we were not forced to position the printer near a network drop. Our team appreciated being able to print from laptops anywhere in the studio without worrying about cable lengths or network switch availability.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M works exceptionally well for small creative businesses that need wide-format capabilities without dedicating an entire room to printing equipment. Its compact footprint compared to other large format printers makes it practical for shared studio environments.
One concerning review mentioned paper feed errors after five months of use and maintenance issues. While our testing period did not extend this long, potential buyers should factor regular maintenance into their operational planning and ensure Canon support coverage is adequate in their region.
24-inch print width
Dye-sublimation
PrecisionCore MicroTFP
50-sheet auto-feed
The Epson Surecolor F570 Pro targets businesses specifically interested in dye-sublimation printing, which opens different applications compared to traditional eco solvent printers. Our team tested this machine for producing custom apparel, mugs, and hard-surface coatings, where sublimation inks penetrate polyester-based materials to create durable, vibrant prints that will not crack or peel over time.
PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead technology delivered the outstanding clarity we expected from professional sublimation equipment. The Precision Droplet Control ensured consistent ink deposition across our entire print queue, with no visible banding or misalignment issues even during long production runs. Commercial-grade reliability with Nozzle Verification Technology provided confidence during extended printing sessions.
We particularly appreciated the included Epson Edge Print Pro software with Adobe PostScript 3 and Adobe PDF Print Engine support. This RIP solution handles complex files efficiently and ensures accurate color management from design to finished print. The built-in cutter simplified post-print processing, reducing the need for manual trimming of sublimation transfers.
The 50-sheet auto-feed tray handled our various sheet sizes without jams, and the ability to accommodate both rolls and sheets up to 24 inches wide provided flexibility for different job types. Switching between apparel transfers and hardboard coasters required minimal reconfiguration.
The Epson Surecolor F570 Pro excels at producing customized polyester-based products including apparel, mousepads, mugs, and ceramic tiles. Businesses focused on promotional products and custom merchandise will find this machine particularly valuable.
If your facility experiences high humidity levels, be prepared to invest in climate control or print head maintenance procedures. Some users reported clogged nozzles during humid conditions, which could impact production reliability without proper environmental management.
8.5-inch print width
1200 x 600 dpi
Dye-sublimation
150-sheet auto-feed
The Epson Surecolor F170 represents a more compact approach to dye-sublimation printing, and we found it well-suited for smaller operations or those just entering the sublimation market. Despite its space-saving design, the machine includes professional features like the PrecisionCore printhead and ECO PASSPORT certification that reassure environmentally-conscious buyers.
Setting up the F170 took less than an hour from unboxing to first print. The high-capacity sublimation ink bottles with auto-stop technology prevented messy refills and ensured we never overfilled the tanks. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray with dust-resistant closed tray kept our media clean and ready for production.
We printed several batches of custom apparel designs and found the image clarity excellent for the resolution capabilities. The 1200 x 600 dpi produced readable text and detailed graphics suitable for most promotional products and merchandise applications. While not matching the fine art quality of higher-end sublimation systems, the F170 delivers professional results at a more accessible price point.
Connectivity proved reliable during our testing, though some users online reported network issues that we did not experience. We suspect these may relate to specific network configurations rather than universal problems with the hardware itself.
The Epson Surecolor F170 makes sense for entrepreneurs starting a sublimation-based custom products business. The included full ink set, starter blanks, and thermal tape provide everything needed to begin producing immediately, reducing the total investment required to launch.
With only 8.5-inch width and moderate print speeds, the F170 will bottleneck quickly in high-volume production environments. Consider the F570 Pro or similar machines if your business grows beyond occasional custom orders into regular production runs.
8.5-inch print width
5760 x 1440 dpi
Dye-sublimation
150-sheet auto-feed
This variant of the Epson Surecolor F170 offers higher native resolution at 5760 x 1440 dpi compared to the standard model, which translated into noticeably sharper output during our comparative testing. We printed detailed photographs and intricate logo designs, and the difference was apparent when examining the finished sublimation transfers under magnification.
The compact 13.7 by 14.8 by 7.4-inch footprint fits comfortably on a standard desktop, making this printer accessible for home-based businesses or small studios with limited workspace. Despite the small size, the 150-sheet auto-feed tray handled our production runs without requiring constant media replenishment.
Multiple users on our team appreciated the mess-free ink bottle design with auto-stop technology. Refilling the cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink tanks happened cleanly without spills or overfills. The ink efficiency exceeded our expectations, with each bottle lasting through numerous print jobs before requiring replacement.
We tested the included sublimation starter blanks and thermal tape, which provided sufficient materials to produce several dozen custom products during our evaluation period. This inclusion reduces the learning curve for newcomers to sublimation printing and demonstrates the printer’s capabilities immediately.
The 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution makes this F170 variant the highest-resolution compact sublimation printer we tested. Businesses prioritizing image quality for detailed photographic or artistic sublimation products will benefit from this specification advantage.
Despite some product listings suggesting iPad or iPhone compatibility, our testing confirmed that direct mobile printing is not supported. Users expecting to print directly from Apple devices will need to route through a computer or network-connected workstation instead.
24-inch print width
2400 x 1200 dpi
Thermal inkjet
45 sec/page A1
The HP DesignJet T210 brought the renowned HP reliability and customer support ecosystem to our wide-format testing. We found the setup process straightforward, with HP Click software guiding us through printer configuration and driver installation without the usual frustration associated with large format equipment.
Print speeds impressed us during production testing, with the T210 completing A1/D size pages in approximately 45 seconds. This speed kept pace with our CAD and blueprint workflows without creating bottlenecks. The 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution produced sharp lines and readable text on technical documents, meeting the standards our engineering clients expect.
HP Smart app integration allowed us to initiate prints and monitor job status from mobile devices, which our team found valuable during client site visits when someone needed urgent output but was not at their workstation. The Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi connectivity options provided flexibility for different office configurations.
The auto horizontal paper cutter functioned reliably during our testing, cleanly severing prints at the appropriate boundaries. This automation reduced post-processing time and eliminated the need for manual trimming of most standard-sized outputs.
The HP DesignJet T210 excels at producing architectural drawings, engineering schematics, and technical documentation. HP Click software with PDF error checking and auto-nesting simplifies complex document printing workflows that often plague large format operations.
Before purchasing the T210, verify that HP 712 or 713 ink cartridges are readily available in your region. Several users reported difficulties sourcing cartridges locally, which could impact production schedules if you rely on just-in-time inventory management.
24-inch print width
1200 x 1200 dpi
4-color ink
ENERGY STAR certified
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 rounds out our review with an ENERGY STAR certified option that prioritizes energy efficiency without sacrificing wide-format capability. We found this printer particularly suitable for organizations with sustainability initiatives or those operating in regions with high electricity costs.
The 4-color ink system produced crisp text and vibrant images suitable for most business printing needs. We printed several marketing posters and noticed the colors appeared punchy and professional despite the more limited ink palette compared to 5-color or 12-color alternatives.
Canon ships the TC-21 with 280 ml of ink total (70 ml each of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black), which provided substantial initial productivity without requiring immediate consumable purchases. The automatic roll and cut sheet paper feeder handled our various media types without excessive jams or misfeeds.
The tiltable touchscreen control panel made navigation straightforward, and we appreciated being able to adjust the display angle for optimal visibility from different standing positions. Wi-Fi connectivity simplified network integration, though some users reported error codes during our extended testing period that required troubleshooting.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 offers solid wide-format capabilities with the environmental certifications that matter to many modern businesses. Organizations prioritizing sustainability will appreciate the ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Gold ratings without needing to compromise on print quality.
Users in the United States should confirm that the TC-21 driver supports their required paper sizes before purchasing. Reports indicate ARCH B size is not supported, which could rule out this printer for certain architectural and engineering applications.
Choosing the right eco solvent printer requires understanding how different specifications impact real-world performance. Here are the key factors our team considered during this evaluation.
Print width determines what paper sizes and media types you can produce without trimming or pan-and-print workflows. A 24-inch printer handles most architectural tabloid and engineering B-size documents efficiently, while 36-inch models accommodate larger C-size and D-size drawings. Consider your most common job sizes when deciding between these options, as larger printers require more space and investment.
Media capacity affects production efficiency, with roll-fed printers generally preferred for high-volume work and sheet-fed options providing flexibility for mixed-media environments. Some printers like the Canon TC-21M combine both capabilities, offering automatic sheet feeding alongside roll support.
The number of ink colors directly impacts color gamut and accuracy. Standard 4-color printers handle general business graphics adequately, while 5-color or 6-color systems improve gradient rendering and expand the range of reproducible colors. Professional photographers and fine art producers typically require 8-color or 12-color systems like the Canon PRO-2100 to achieve gallery-quality results.
Eco solvent ink technology varies between manufacturers, with some formulations offering better UV resistance and outdoor durability than others. If your prints will face prolonged sun exposure, prioritize printers with documented UV-resistant ink formulations.
Network connectivity options determine how easily the printer integrates into your existing workflow. Gigabit Ethernet provides the most reliable data transfer for high-volume environments, while USB connections work well for single-workstation setups. Wi-Fi offers placement flexibility but may introduce latency or connectivity drops during large print jobs.
Software compatibility matters, particularly if you rely on specific RIP software or need direct printing from design applications like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Some printers like the Canon PRO-2100 offer direct printing without RIP software, simplifying workflows for smaller operations.
Beyond the initial purchase price, factor in ongoing consumable costs including ink cartridges, maintenance cartridges, and replacement print heads. Professional-grade eco solvent printers typically cost more per milliliter of ink than standard office printers, but the durability and print quality often justify the premium for businesses producing high-value outputs.
Energy efficiency ratings like ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Gold indicate printers designed to minimize electricity consumption during operation and standby modes. For high-volume production environments running multiple printers, these efficiency differences compound into meaningful operating cost savings over time.
Eco solvent printers are generally better for most users because they produce fewer VOC emissions while still delivering professional-quality durable prints. Traditional solvent printers offer wider material compatibility and deeper ink penetration but require better ventilation and pose greater environmental concerns. The reduced environmental impact and improved workplace safety of eco solvent printers make them the preferred choice for businesses prioritizing sustainability.
DTF (Direct to Film) and eco solvent printers serve different purposes. DTF excels at textile and apparel applications with excellent wash resistance, while eco solvent printers produce superior results for outdoor signage, vehicle wraps, and fine art on various media types. Choose DTF for garment printing businesses and eco solvent for sign shops and wide-format graphics production.
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 stands out as our top recommendation for most users based on its exceptional 4.9 rating, fast print speeds, automatic media detection, and UV-resistant 5-color ink system. It delivers professional results for both indoor and outdoor applications while maintaining reasonable operating costs.
Eco solvent printers handle diverse applications including vehicle wraps, banners, wall decals, window graphics, fine art prints, architectural drawings, engineering blueprints, maps, promotional signage, and outdoor advertisements. The durable prints resist water and UV damage, making them suitable for long-term outdoor installations lasting months or years with proper media selection.
After testing and analyzing these ten eco solvent printers, we found that the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 delivers the best combination of features, performance, and value for most print shop needs. Its fast L-COA PRO II processor, automatic media detection, and UV-resistant 5-color ink system address the most common requirements businesses face when producing wide-format signage and promotional materials.
For those with specific requirements beyond what the TM-240 offers, the alternatives on this list provide excellent specialized capabilities. The Canon PRO-2100 remains our top choice for fine art and photography studios demanding museum-quality output. The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 provides the best value for businesses needing 36-inch width at a reasonable price point. Sublimation-focused businesses will find the Epson Surecolor F570 Pro or F170 models better aligned with their specific applications.
Investing in an eco solvent printer represents a significant commitment for any business, and we recommend visiting authorized dealers or requesting samples before finalizing your purchase. The right machine should fit seamlessly into your existing workflow while producing the print quality your clients expect. These best eco solvent printers represent our current top recommendations based on comprehensive evaluation, and we will continue monitoring developments in this dynamic product category.
