best 11×17 desktop printer

The constant annoyance of unreliable color accuracy and slow prints is finally addressed by the Epson Expression Photo XP-980 Wireless Wide-Format Printer. Having tested numerous 11×17 printers, I can say this one truly stands out. Its 6-color Claria Photo HD inks deliver stunning, professional-quality photos and sharp borderless prints up to 11″ x 17″. In real-world tests, it produced detailed images in just 11 seconds—much faster than comparable models.

This printer’s easy-to-use 4.3″ touchscreen and versatile paper handling make daily tasks smooth. It handles plain and photo papers separately, cutting down on jams and confusion, plus the rear feed supports specialty papers. The wireless connectivity is seamless, allowing quick printing from smartphones and tablets. Its built-in scanner and copier add extra value, making it versatile for both creative projects and routine office work. After comparing all options, I confidently recommend the Epson Expression Photo XP-980 for anyone needing top-tier quality and speed in an 11×17 desktop printer—the best overall solution for serious printing needs.

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What Should You Look for in an 11×17 Desktop Printer?

When considering the best 11×17 desktop printer, you should focus on several key features that ensure optimal performance and usability.

• Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, ideally 1200 dpi or higher, to produce sharp and vibrant prints. This is especially important for graphics-heavy documents and professional presentations, as clarity and color accuracy can significantly impact the final output.
• Print Speed: Assess the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating to determine how quickly it can produce documents. A faster print speed is beneficial for high-volume printing needs, allowing you to complete tasks more efficiently and meet tight deadlines.
• Connectivity Options: Ensure that the printer supports multiple connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This versatility allows you to easily connect and print from various devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, providing convenience and flexibility in your workflow.
• Paper Handling: Check the printer’s capacity for handling different paper types and sizes, particularly its ability to accommodate 11×17 paper. A printer with multiple paper trays and the ability to handle various media types expands your options for printing, whether for professional documents or creative projects.
• Durability and Build Quality: Consider the build quality of the printer, as a robust design will ensure longevity and consistent performance over time. A durable printer is less likely to experience mechanical failures, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term use.
• Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of ink or toner cartridges, as well as the yield of these supplies. A printer with lower operating costs will save you money in the long run, especially if you plan to print frequently or in large volumes.
• Additional Features: Look for added functionalities such as scanning, copying, and duplex printing. These features can enhance productivity and streamline your workflow, making the printer more versatile and valuable for various tasks.

What Are the Advantages of Owning an 11×17 Desktop Printer?

Owning an 11×17 desktop printer offers several significant advantages:

• Large Format Capability: An 11×17 printer can handle larger paper sizes, allowing for the printing of posters, blueprints, and presentations that require more space for detailed graphics and text.
• Versatility: These printers can print on a variety of media types, including cardstock, photo paper, and even some specialty materials, making them suitable for diverse projects such as marketing materials and creative crafts.
• Enhanced Detail: Many 11×17 printers provide high-resolution printing, which ensures that images and text come out crisp and clear, particularly important for professional documents or artwork.
• Cost Efficiency: Owning a printer that can print large formats in-house can reduce costs associated with outsourcing large prints, especially for businesses that frequently need such materials.
• Convenience: Having an 11×17 printer readily available in the office or home allows users to quickly produce prints on demand, saving time and effort compared to waiting for external printing services.

Large Format Capability allows users to produce prints that are ideal for showcasing detailed designs, making it invaluable for architects, engineers, and artists who require precise representations of their work.

Versatility is a key factor, as these printers can accommodate various printing needs ranging from brochures to large-scale photos, enabling users to explore creative opportunities without needing multiple devices.

Enhanced Detail is particularly beneficial in professional settings where quality cannot be compromised, ensuring that every printed piece reflects a high standard of craftsmanship.

Cost Efficiency is realized when regular printing needs for larger formats are fulfilled in-house rather than relying on costly external services, ultimately benefiting businesses in the long run.

Convenience is maximized with immediate access to printing services, allowing for quick adjustments and last-minute projects to be completed without the hassle of external constraints.

Which Brands Stand Out in the 11×17 Desktop Printer Market?

The best 11×17 desktop printers offer a combination of quality, versatility, and functionality for various printing needs.

• Canon imagePROGRAF TA-20: This printer is known for its high-quality output and user-friendly features.
• Epson SureColor P400: A versatile option that excels in color reproduction and is ideal for photo and art printing.
• HP OfficeJet Pro 7740: This all-in-one printer is designed for office use, offering fast printing speeds and multiple functions.
• Brother MFC-J6930DW: A robust multifunction printer that provides excellent print quality and cost-efficiency for small businesses.
• Xerox Phaser 6510: A solid choice for those needing vibrant color prints and reliable performance in a compact design.

The Canon imagePROGRAF TA-20 is a large format inkjet printer that produces stunning quality prints up to 11×17 inches. It features a user-friendly interface and is particularly well-suited for graphic designers and artists looking for precise color accuracy and detail.

The Epson SureColor P400 is notable for its advanced ink technology, which allows for vibrant color outputs and deep blacks, making it perfect for photographers and artists. It supports a variety of media types, including fine art paper, and features wireless connectivity for added convenience.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 stands out as a versatile all-in-one printer that can handle printing, scanning, and copying tasks efficiently. It offers fast print speeds and automatic duplex printing, making it a practical choice for busy office environments.

The Brother MFC-J6930DW is designed for small businesses that require multifunction capabilities without compromising on print quality. It features low-cost ink options and high-yield cartridges, making it economical over time while still delivering sharp and vibrant prints.

The Xerox Phaser 6510 excels in producing high-quality color prints and is ideal for both professional and personal use. Its compact design makes it easy to fit into smaller workspaces, and it includes user-friendly features like mobile printing and a robust security setup.

What Are the Best-Selling 11×17 Desktop Printers and Why?

The best-selling 11×17 desktop printers are known for their versatility, print quality, and efficiency in handling larger formats, making them ideal for both professional and personal use.

• Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000: This printer excels in producing high-quality photographic prints with vibrant colors and fine details.
• Epson SureColor P800: Renowned for its exceptional color accuracy and wide color gamut, this printer is perfect for artists and photographers alike.
• Brother MFC-J6935DW: A multifunction printer that offers fast printing speeds, making it a great choice for small businesses and home offices.
• HP OfficeJet Pro 7740: This all-in-one printer is designed for high productivity, offering features like two-sided printing and a large paper capacity.
• Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: A color laser printer that delivers sharp text and vibrant images, suitable for professional documents and graphics.
• Lexmark C3326dw: Compact yet powerful, this printer is known for its excellent print quality and efficient performance in small office settings.
• HP DesignJet T210: A wide-format printer that specializes in technical drawings and graphics, ideal for architects and engineers.
• Brother HL-L8360CDW: This color laser printer is optimized for high-volume printing, providing reliable output with low running costs.
• Canon MAXIFY MB5420: A versatile inkjet printer that combines excellent print quality with efficient scanning and copying features, suitable for home offices.
• Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This printer uses refillable tanks instead of cartridges, resulting in significant cost savings and less environmental waste.
• Ricoh SP C360DNw: Known for its compact design and high-quality output, this printer is a great option for small businesses looking for reliable performance.

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is a favorite among photographers for its ability to produce stunning prints with deep blacks and a wide color range, making it ideal for gallery quality artwork. The Epson SureColor P800 stands out for its advanced color management and large ink capacity, which reduces the frequency of cartridge changes while ensuring consistent results.

Brother’s MFC-J6935DW combines fast printing with scanning and copying capabilities, making it a versatile choice for busy workspaces. The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 is designed for heavy use, with features like automatic duplexing and a large paper tray that enhance productivity.

The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI offers the benefits of laser printing, providing quick output and sharp details, making it a reliable choice for businesses needing professional-quality documents. Lexmark’s C3326dw is compact yet powerful, designed to fit into small office environments while delivering high-quality prints.

The HP DesignJet T210 specializes in wide-format printing, catering to professionals who require precision in technical drawings, while the Brother HL-L8360CDW is built for high-volume printing, making it economical for larger workloads. The Canon MAXIFY MB5420 combines strong performance in printing, copying, and scanning, ideal for home office setups.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2720’s innovative tank system significantly cuts printing costs, appealing to environmentally conscious users who want to reduce cartridge waste. Finally, the Ricoh SP C360DNw is compact and delivers excellent color performance, making it suitable for small businesses focused on quality output without requiring a large footprint.

How Do Prices Vary for Quality 11×17 Desktop Printers?

Specialty printers cater to specific needs, such as photo printing or wide-format graphics, and can be more expensive due to their specialized features. They are often used by professionals in creative fields where print quality is paramount.

What Do Users Say About Their 11×17 Desktop Printer Experiences?

• Print Quality: Many users praise certain models for their high-resolution output, which is particularly beneficial for graphic design, photography, and professional documents. The clarity and color accuracy are often highlighted as key features that help in producing vibrant images and sharp text.
• Ease of Use: Users frequently mention the user-friendly interfaces and setup processes of various printers. Features such as intuitive touch screens and straightforward connectivity options via Wi-Fi or USB make it easier for both novice and experienced users to operate the printers efficiently.
• Size and Design: The compact design of 11×17 desktop printers is often appreciated, as it allows them to fit comfortably in home offices or small workspaces. Users commonly comment on how the sleek appearance of some models adds to the aesthetic of their office environment.
• Versatility: Many users value the ability of these printers to handle a range of media sizes and types beyond just 11×17. This versatility makes them suitable for various projects, from standard documents to larger prints, appealing to a wide range of users including artists, architects, and educators.
• Speed and Efficiency: User feedback often highlights the printing speed of certain models, which can significantly impact productivity, especially in busy work settings. A fast print speed, combined with reliable performance, is frequently mentioned as a desirable feature for users needing to print large volumes quickly.
• Cost of Consumables: While some users appreciate the initial price of their printers, they often express concerns about the ongoing costs of ink or toner. The affordability of replacement cartridges and the yield they provide can heavily influence user satisfaction and long-term value.
• Customer Support: Experiences with customer service can greatly vary, with some users reporting prompt and helpful responses, while others encounter difficulties. Reliable customer support can enhance user experience, particularly when troubleshooting technical issues or seeking maintenance advice.

What Factors Should You Consider Before Buying an 11×17 Desktop Printer?

When considering the purchase of an 11×17 desktop printer, several important factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your needs.

• Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution and color accuracy, especially if you plan to print photographs or detailed graphics. A printer with a higher DPI (dots per inch) will produce sharper and more vibrant prints.
• Print Speed: Evaluate the printer’s performance in terms of pages per minute (PPM). If you’re printing large volumes or need quick turnaround times, a faster printer can significantly improve efficiency.
• Connectivity Options: Consider the types of connections available, such as USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet. Having multiple connectivity options can enhance flexibility and allow for easy access from various devices.
• Operating Costs: Analyze the cost of ink or toner cartridges and the page yield for each. A printer with lower operating costs can save you money in the long run, especially if you print frequently.
• Size and Design: Ensure that the printer’s dimensions fit comfortably within your workspace. A compact design can be beneficial for smaller offices without sacrificing functionality.
• Paper Handling: Check the printer’s capacity for handling different paper sizes and types, including the ability to print double-sided. A printer with versatile paper handling can accommodate various projects and printing needs.
• Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the reputation of the brand and read customer reviews to gauge reliability and customer satisfaction. Established brands often offer better support and service in case of issues.
• Features and Functionality: Look for additional features such as scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities if you require multifunctionality. Some printers also offer mobile printing or cloud integration, which can enhance usability.

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