The ultimate guide to finding the best printer for art prints in 2024

When it comes to printing your own art, whether it’s for personal enjoyment or professional purposes, having the right printer is key. The quality of your prints can make a big difference in how your artwork is perceived and appreciated. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in a printer that can faithfully reproduce the colors, details, and texture of your art.

Choosing the best printer for art prints can be a daunting task, considering the multitude of options available on the market. There are various factors to consider, such as color accuracy, resolution, ink quality, and compatibility with different types of papers. To help you navigate through the sea of choices, we have compiled a list of top printers that are renowned among artists for their exceptional performance in printing art.

The Epson SureColor P800 is widely regarded as one of the best printers for art prints. This large-format printer offers a wide color gamut, ensuring accurate reproduction of vivid and vibrant colors. With its advanced MicroPiezo AMC printhead technology, it can produce prints with sharp details and smooth gradations.

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is another favorite among artists. This professional-grade printer boasts a 12-color LUCIA PRO ink set, which allows for a wide color range and excellent color accuracy. Its 1.28-inch wide print head enables faster printing speed, while the Chroma Optimizer ensures uniform glossiness on every print.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the HP DesignJet Z9+ is worth considering. This printer uses HP’s Vivid Photo inks, which deliver vibrant and long-lasting prints. It also features an embedded spectrophotometer for precise color calibration, ensuring consistent and accurate results.

Ultimately, the best printer for art prints will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as your desired print size, the level of color accuracy required, and your budget. By doing thorough research and reading reviews, you can find the perfect printer that will bring your artwork to life.

Best Printer for Art Prints

When it comes to printing high-quality art prints, having the right printer is essential. Whether you’re an artist looking to reproduce your artwork or a collector wanting to create professional-quality reproductions, finding the best printer is crucial.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a printer for art prints. One of the most important factors is the printer’s color accuracy. You want a printer that can reproduce your artwork’s colors as accurately as possible. Look for a printer that offers a wide color gamut, as well as advanced color management tools.

The printer’s resolution is another vital consideration. A higher resolution printer will produce sharper and more detailed prints. Look for a printer with a resolution of at least 2400 DPI (dots per inch) to ensure your art prints look the best they can.

Another feature to consider is the printer’s ink system. Many printers use either pigment or dye-based inks. Pigment inks are generally more durable and fade-resistant, making them ideal for art prints that need to stand the test of time. However, pigment inks can sometimes be more expensive. Dye-based inks, on the other hand, tend to have a wider color gamut and can produce vibrant prints. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between pigment and dye-based ink systems.

Additionally, consider the size of the printer and the maximum print size it can handle. If you plan on printing large art prints, make sure the printer you choose can accommodate your desired print size.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a table of some of the best printers for art prints:

Printer Model Color Accuracy Resolution Ink System Print Size
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Excellent 2400 x 1200 DPI Pigment 17″ x 22″
Epson SureColor P800 Excellent 2880 x 1440 DPI Pigment 17″ x 22″
HP DesignJet Z3200 Excellent 2400 x 1200 DPI Pigment 24″ x 44″
Epson SureColor P600 Excellent 5760 x 1440 DPI Pigment 13″ x 19″

These printers have consistently received positive reviews from artists and photographers for their color accuracy, resolution, and print quality. However, it’s essential to note that individual preferences may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always a good idea to read reviews, compare specifications, and consider your specific needs before making a final decision.

Investing in a high-quality printer for your art prints is a worthwhile investment that can significantly enhance your artwork’s presentation and value. With the right printer, you can bring your artistic vision to life and share it with the world.

Factors to Consider

When choosing the best printer for art prints, there are several important factors to consider. These factors will help ensure that you find a printer that can deliver high-quality prints and meet your specific needs as an artist.

  1. Print Quality:The most crucial factor when it comes to art prints is the print quality. Look for a printer that offers high resolution and excellent color accuracy. This will ensure that your prints capture the fine details and vibrant colors of your artwork.
  2. Ink System:The type of ink system used by the printer can also affect the quality of your prints. Many professional printers use pigment-based inks, which offer superior color reproduction and longevity. However, some artists may prefer dye-based inks for their vibrant and intense colors.
  3. Paper Compatibility:Consider the types of paper that the printer can handle. Different art prints may require different types of paper, such as matte, glossy, or fine art paper. Ensure that the printer can accommodate the paper size and thickness that you plan to use for your prints.
  4. Size and Speed:Depending on the size of your artwork and the volume of prints you need, you may need to consider the printer’s size and printing speed. Larger printers can accommodate larger paper sizes, while faster printers can produce prints more quickly. Keep in mind your specific requirements to choose the right size and speed for your needs.
  5. Connectivity and Compatibility:Make sure that the printer is compatible with your computer system and that it offers the connectivity options you need. USB and Wi-Fi connectivity are common, allowing you to easily connect to your computer or print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet.
  6. Brand Reputation and Support:Consider the reputation of the printer brand and the level of customer support they provide. Research customer reviews and ratings to ensure that the printer you choose is reliable and backed by excellent customer service.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect printer to showcase your artwork and bring your artistic vision to life.

Inkjet Printers for Art Prints

If you are an artist looking to print your artwork, an inkjet printer can be a great choice. Inkjet printers are capable of producing high-quality prints with vibrant colors and fine details. They use small droplets of ink to create precise and accurate reproductions of your artwork.

When choosing an inkjet printer for art prints, there are a few key features to consider:

Resolution:

Look for a printer with a high resolution, measured in dots per inch (dpi). A higher dpi will result in sharper and more detailed prints.

Color Accuracy:

Ensure that the printer has good color accuracy to reproduce your artwork’s colors faithfully. Look for printers with multiple ink cartridges that can produce a wide color gamut.

Paper Handling:

If you work with a variety of paper sizes and thicknesses, make sure the printer can handle them. Look for printers with flexible paper handling options and multiple paper trays.

Print Speed:

Consider the printer’s print speed if you frequently need to print large quantities of art prints. Look for printers that can produce prints quickly without compromising quality.

Some popular inkjet printers for art prints include models from Epson, Canon, and HP. These brands offer a range of printers with different features and price points to suit artists of all levels.

Remember to also consider the cost of ink cartridges and the longevity of the prints when choosing an inkjet printer for art prints. Overall, investing in a high-quality inkjet printer can greatly enhance the presentation of your artwork and provide you with professional-looking prints.

Laser Printers for Art Prints

Laser printers are a popular choice for artists looking to create high-quality art prints. These printers use a laser beam to transfer toner onto the paper, resulting in precise and vibrant prints. If you’re considering a laser printer for your art prints, here are a few options to consider:

Printer Features Price
Epson SureColor P800 This printer offers UltraChrome HD pigment inks, which provide a wide color gamut and long-lasting prints. It can handle prints up to 17 inches wide and has wireless printing capabilities. $1,195.00
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 This printer uses a 12-color LUCIA PRO pigment ink set to produce stunning, gallery-quality prints. It has a large color gamut and can accommodate prints up to 17 inches wide. $1,299.99
HP LaserJet Pro M281fdw This all-in-one laser printer is a more budget-friendly option for artists. It offers fast printing speeds and can handle a variety of media types, including art prints. $429.99

When choosing a laser printer for your art prints, consider factors such as print quality, size limitations, and price. It’s also important to invest in high-quality paper and ink to ensure your prints look their best.

Overall, laser printers are a reliable and versatile option for artists looking to create professional art prints. With their precision and vibrant color reproduction, they can help bring your artwork to life.

All-in-One Printers for Art Prints

If you’re in the market for a printer that can handle all your art printing needs, an all-in-one printer is a great option. These printers combine the functionality of a printer, scanner, and copier into one device, making them perfect for artists who need to reproduce their artwork or create prints of their work.

One of the best all-in-one printers for art prints is the Canon PIXMA Pro-100. This printer offers high-quality printing with a wide color gamut, allowing artists to accurately reproduce the colors in their artwork. It also has a resolution of up to 4800×2400 dpi, ensuring sharp and crisp prints. Additionally, the PIXMA Pro-100 uses an 8-color dye ink system, which provides a wide range of colors and smooth gradations.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one printer that offers versatility and convenience, the Epson Expression Photo XP-8600 is a great choice. This printer features six-color Claria Photo HD ink, which produces stunning photo-quality prints. It also has a built-in scanner with a maximum scanning resolution of 4800×4800 dpi, perfect for creating digital copies of your artwork. The XP-8600 also offers wireless printing capabilities, allowing you to print directly from your phone or tablet.

Printer Features
Canon PIXMA Pro-100
  • High-quality printing with wide color gamut
  • Resolution of up to 4800×2400 dpi
  • 8-color dye ink system
Epson Expression Photo XP-8600
  • Six-color Claria Photo HD ink
  • Maximum scanning resolution of 4800×4800 dpi
  • Wireless printing capabilities

When choosing an all-in-one printer for art prints, it’s important to consider factors such as print quality, color accuracy, and scanning capabilities. Both the Canon PIXMA Pro-100 and the Epson Expression Photo XP-8600 excel in these areas, making them excellent choices for artists looking to reproduce their artwork.

Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting out, investing in a quality all-in-one printer can help you bring your artwork to life and create beautiful prints that accurately represent your vision.

Budget-friendly Options

When it comes to finding a budget-friendly printer for your art prints, there are several options available that can deliver quality results without breaking the bank.

One option is the Canon PIXMA iP8720, a wireless inkjet printer that is designed for printing high-quality photos and artwork. It offers a maximum color resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi, allowing you to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of your artwork. With its six-color ink system, it can produce prints with smooth gradations and rich color reproduction. The PIXMA iP8720 also has a dedicated grayscale photo printing mode, which is perfect for black and white art prints.

Another budget-friendly option is the Epson Expression Photo XP-15000, a wide-format printer that can accommodate prints up to 13 x 19 inches. It features six-color Claria Photo HD ink, which delivers smooth gradations and a wide color gamut. The printer also has advanced media handling capabilities, allowing you to print on various types of art paper, canvas, and even CDs/DVDs. With its wireless connectivity and mobile printing options, you can easily print your artwork directly from your smartphone or tablet.

If you are on a tight budget, the HP DeskJet 3755 is a compact and affordable option. It may not have the advanced features and high-resolution capabilities of other printers, but it can still produce decent quality prints for basic art prints. The DeskJet 3755 is a multifunction printer that includes scanning and copying capabilities, making it a versatile choice for artists who need a printer for various tasks.

When choosing a budget-friendly printer, it is important to consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term expenses, such as ink cartridge replacements. Some printers may have lower upfront costs but higher ongoing expenses for ink. So, make sure to research and compare the cost of replacement ink cartridges before making a decision.

Overall, these budget-friendly options can provide you with a reliable and affordable solution for printing your art prints. They may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they can still deliver impressive results for your artwork.

Professional Grade Printers

When it comes to producing high-quality art prints, professional grade printers are the way to go. These printers are specifically designed to meet the demands of professional artists, photographers, and printmakers, providing unmatched color accuracy, detail, and longevity.

One of the key features of professional grade printers is their wide color gamut. They are capable of reproducing a vast range of colors, allowing artists to capture the subtle nuances and variations in their artwork. This ensures that the prints are true to the original, with vibrant and accurate colors.

In addition to color accuracy, professional grade printers also excel in producing fine details. They have advanced print heads and precision mechanisms that can produce prints with incredibly sharp and detailed images. This is especially important for artists who create highly detailed and intricate pieces.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a professional grade printer is the longevity of the prints. These printers use archival inks, which are specially formulated to resist fading and ensure that the prints can last for decades without losing their vibrancy. This is crucial for artists who want their prints to stand the test of time and be enjoyed by future generations.

Furthermore, professional grade printers offer a wide variety of media options, allowing artists to experiment with different types of paper, canvas, and other materials. This versatility allows artists to choose the perfect medium that complements their artwork and enhances its overall appearance.

While professional grade printers tend to be more expensive than consumer-grade printers, they are a worthwhile investment for serious artists who value the quality and longevity of their prints. By using a professional-grade printer, artists can ensure that their artwork is faithfully reproduced and appreciated by art lovers and collectors.

So, if you’re a professional artist looking to take your art prints to the next level, consider investing in a professional grade printer. With their exceptional color accuracy, detail reproduction, and print longevity, these printers are the perfect tool for creating high-quality art prints that truly capture the essence of your artwork.

Question-answer: Best printer for art prints

What features make the best art printer for artists in 2023?

The best art printer for artists in 2023 should have excellent color accuracy, high resolution for detailed image quality, support for a variety of paper types and sizes, particularly large formats for fine art printing, and reliable ink technology for long-lasting prints.

Can the Epson EcoTank be considered a good option for fine art printing?

Yes, the Epson EcoTank series is a good option for fine art printing, especially for artists who want to print high-quality art prints frequently. Its refillable ink tanks offer a cost-effective solution, and many models provide excellent color accuracy and image quality.

What makes a photo printer suitable for graphic designers?

A photo printer suitable for graphic designers should offer high image quality with accurate color reproduction, support for various media types, and the ability to produce detailed prints. Features like borderless prints and compatibility with graphic design software are also important.

Are there affordable printer options for artists wanting to sell prints?

Yes, there are affordable printer options for artists wanting to sell prints. Printers like the Canon Pixma Pro 200 offer a balance between quality and affordability, providing high-quality prints at a price point accessible to emerging artists.

What is the advantage of using an Epson EcoTank printer for digital art?

The advantage of using an Epson EcoTank printer for digital art lies in its cost-effectiveness and quality. The EcoTank’s refillable ink tanks reduce the ongoing cost of ink, and many models offer high-quality prints, making them ideal for producing digital art prints.

How does giclee printing differ from standard home printers?

Giclee printing differs from standard home printing in its quality and durability. Giclee printers use archival inks and high-resolution printing processes to produce fine art prints with greater color accuracy and longevity compared to standard home printers.

What should artists and graphic designers look for in a professional art printer?

Artists and graphic designers should look for a professional art printer that offers exceptional color accuracy, supports high-resolution printing for fine details, and accommodates a range of media types and sizes. Features like large ink tanks and the ability to produce borderless prints are also beneficial.

Why might a Canon Pro series printer be a good choice for fine art printing?

A Canon Pro series printer, like the Canon PRO-1000, is a good choice for fine art printing due to its exceptional color accuracy, ability to handle various media types, and high resolution, which ensures detailed and vibrant prints.

Can large format printers be a viable option for artists and designers doing art shows?

Large format printers are a viable option for artists and designers doing art shows, as they allow for the production of larger prints that can be more impactful in a gallery setting. These printers enable artists to showcase their work in a more professional and visually appealing manner.

What considerations should be made when choosing a printer for your needs as an artist?

When choosing a printer for your needs as an artist, consider the type of artwork you produce, the size of prints you need (A3, large format), the quality of prints required (especially for selling), the cost of ink and maintenance, and how frequently you’ll be using the printer.