Wide-format printers are a niche segment in the printing industry, catering to those in need of large-format prints for various purposes. These printers are capable of handling paper sizes larger than the standard letter and legal sizes, making them ideal for professionals like photographers, graphic artists, and architects. While most people rarely print on anything larger than standard paper, wide-format printers offer a universe of possibilities for those requiring tabloid-size output or even larger prints.
Historically, wide-format printers have been a staple in industries where larger prints are essential, such as in graphic design, advertising, and engineering. These printers have evolved over the years to offer improved print quality, faster speeds, and enhanced features to meet the diverse needs of users.
One of the top-rated wide-format printers in 2025 is the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310, a single-function printer that can handle tabloid-size paper and even larger sheets. With features like borderless printing and auto-duplexing, this printer is suitable for offices and home users looking to print larger documents and photos.
Brother MFC-J5340DW is another notable wide-format printer, offering affordability and compactness for small and home offices. While it may have limitations in terms of paper handling compared to higher-end models, it provides good output quality and essential features like mobile printing.
For homes and home offices requiring supertabloid-size prints, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is a top choice. With additional inks for enhanced photo quality and borderless printing capabilities, this printer is ideal for photo enthusiasts and small businesses needing high-quality prints up to supertabloid size.
Businesses with midsize offices or workgroups may benefit from the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650, which offers low cost per page and robust paper handling capabilities. With support for supertabloid-size prints and auto-duplexing, this printer is suitable for environments with high-volume printing needs.
For large offices and workgroups requiring a wide-format printer, the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C8690 stands out for its professional features and performance. With multiple paper trays, high-speed scanning, and excellent print quality, this printer caters to the demands of medium to large businesses.
Canon Pixma Pro-200 and Epson SureColor P700 are dedicated photo printers designed for professional photographers and graphic artists. These printers offer exceptional print quality and support for various paper sizes, making them ideal for producing gallery-level prints.
When choosing a wide-format printer, it’s essential to consider factors like paper handling, print quality, running costs, and total cost of ownership. Understanding the specific needs of your office or home setup will help you select the right printer that meets your requirements for large-format printing.
Wide-format printers continue to play a crucial role in industries where large prints are a necessity. As technology advances, these printers are becoming more versatile, offering improved features and capabilities to meet the evolving demands of professionals and enthusiasts requiring high-quality, large-format prints.