Answering the search for a wide-format multifunction printer, this guide highlights five strong options ideal for offices and design-heavy workflows. Each pick supports up to large-format paper (11×17 or larger) and combines print, scan, copy, and sometimes fax. Best-for-office models excel in speed and reliability, while large-format plotters suit exacting technical drawings and posters. The buyers below cover color performance, media flexibility, and workflow features to help you compare quickly and choose confidently.
Selected products at a glance
| Product | Format Range | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 | Up to 11×17 | Professional offices needing color documents | Fast color printing with two 250-sheet trays |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 | 36″ wide, color | AEC/MCAD posters and large-format plots | 5-color pigment ink for sharp lines |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 | Up to 11×17 | Offices needing reliable wide-format color | Auto document feeder and duplex printing |
| HP DesignJet T650 | Up to 36″ wide | Technical drawings and posters | 2-year onsite warranty and robust media support |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 | 24″ wide | Poster and plotter workflows on medium-wide media | Automatic roll & cut sheet feeder |
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide-Format Overview
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 is a wide-format color inkjet with native support for up to 11×17 paper. It combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in a single device and includes an auto duplex document feeder for two-sided scanning and copying. This model is best for offices that produce client-facing documents, floor plans, and color-spreads frequently. A 3-month Instant Ink trial helps control ongoing ink costs, appealing to workgroups that print in color with moderate volume.
- Best for: Office teams producing color documents like floorplans and mood boards.
- Why selected: Strong color quality, reliable color inkjet performance, and convenient two-tray paper handling.
- Caution: Ink-subscription pricing may vary after the trial period; review ongoing costs.
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 36″ Large Format
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 is a professional 36-inch large-format multifunction printer designed for technical maps, posters, and renders. It prints, scans, and copies in a single unit with automatic media handling and color calibration options that favor precise line work and color accuracy. This model is best for AEC and design teams needing large, sharp output and a dependable workflow for oversized documents.
- Best for: AEC, GIS, and MCAD professionals needing precise line quality.
- Why selected: Large-format capability with reliable automated media handling.
- Caution: Higher upfront footprint; plan for adequate workspace.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 Wide-Format
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 brings wide-format color printing and scanning to medium-to-large offices. It supports up to 11×17 and offers an auto document feeder, duplex printing, and robust media handling for color documents, diagrams, and client proofs. This model is well-suited for environments that prioritize ease of use and consistent color output in a compact footprint.
- Best for: Offices needing reliable wide-format color on a busy schedule.
- Why selected: Balanced speed, color quality, and workflow features.
- Caution: May require periodic ink cost planning beyond trial offers.
HP DesignJet T650 Large Format Plotter
The HP DesignJet T650 is a dedicated 36-inch wide-format plotter designed for technical drawings and posters. It emphasizes media versatility and offers a two-year onsite warranty for peace of mind in pro environments. It is best for professional offices and studios that produce large-format architectural drawings, maps, and renderings with reliable support.
- Best for: Technical professionals needing long-format plot capability.
- Why selected: Strong warranty and robust media handling for large formats.
- Caution: Primarily a plotter workflow; scanning and copying are secondary.
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24″ Printer
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 is a 24-inch wide-format printer with a roll-and-cut feeder for mixed media. It ships with a generous amount of ink and offers automatic media detection to simplify operation. This model is best for studios and small teams producing posters and signs that require consistent color across a range of media.
- Best for: Poster and plotter workloads on medium-wide media.
- Why selected: Automatic media handling and a full ink setup for immediate use.
- Caution: Notably suited for 24″ wide output; larger formats require other options.
Buying Guide
What wide-format needs should guide your choice?
Determine the maximum print width you require and whether you need true 11×17 support or larger formats like 24″ or 36″. If your primary output is technical drawings or posters, prioritize devices with robust media handling and clear line quality.
Color vs. monochrome considerations
Color printers are essential for proofs, client deliverables, and marketing materials. Monochrome devices excel in fast, cost-efficient black-and-white output but are generally not suitable for color-heavy tasks in design-heavy workflows.
Workflow features to compare
- Auto duplex scanning/copy and automatic document feeders save time on multi-page jobs.
- Ink subscription or ongoing consumables costs; compare included trials versus ongoing expenses.
- Media compatibility: sheets, envelopes, tabs, and large-format rolls; check roll-to-cut capabilities if needed.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB; cloud printing support can improve team collaboration.
Space, maintenance, and support
Consider footprint and required workspace for large-format devices. Warranty terms and on-site support are valuable for professional environments that rely on uptime and quick service responses.
Usage patterns and total cost of ownership
Estimate monthly page volumes, color versus black-and-white shares, and ink/toner replacement intervals. A model with a favorable total cost of ownership over five years better serves busy offices or design studios.
Summary comparison for quick decision-making
- Best for color-heavy office proofing: HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 or 9720.
- Best for large-format technical outputs: Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 or HP DesignJet T650.
- Best for medium-wide posters and mixed media: Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the maximum paper width supported by these printers?
– It varies by model; the HP and Canon wide-format devices listed support up to 11×17 inches for standard sheets, while TM-340 and DesignJet T650 support 36-inch wide media for large-format outputs. - Do these devices include scanning and copying capabilities?
– Yes, all listed multifunction models include print, scan, and copy; some also offer fax capabilities depending on the model. - Is there a trial for ink or toner?
– Several models include a trial or promotional ink program; ongoing costs depend on usage and replacement schedules. - Which device is best for architectural plotting?
– For large-format plotting, Canon imagePROGRAF TM-340 and HP DesignJet T650 are strong choices due to large format and precision. - What about warranty and support?
– The DesignJet T650 includes a 2-year onsite warranty; check each model’s warranty terms on purchase. - Are these devices easy to integrate into an existing office network?
– All listed devices feature standard network connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet) for shared access across teams.