Finding the best 24 inch pigment printer for fine art involves balancing image quality, color accuracy, and ease of use. The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 stands out as the best overall choice for its reliable performance and excellent print quality. The Epson SureColor T2170 offers a compelling alternative with precise color rendition suited for professional artists. Buyers face tradeoffs between cost, print speed, and color fidelity, especially when choosing between entry-level and high-end models. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top options to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- The top printers combine high-resolution capabilities with accurate color reproduction, essential for fine art printing.
- Cost-effective models often sacrifice some color fidelity or speed but remain suitable for hobbyists or small studios.
- Premium options deliver exceptional detail and longevity but come with a higher price tag and more complex maintenance.
- Compatibility with various media and ease of operation are crucial for consistent fine art output.
- Choosing between printers and media requires balancing your specific art quality needs with budget constraints.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24″ Large Format Inkjet Printer with Wireless & Auto Roll Feed
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 stands out for delivering high-quality, vibrant prints suitable for fine art reproduction, especially given its crisp 1200 dpi resolution. Its automatic roll and sheet media feeding streamline workflow, making it a strong alternative to the Epson SureColor T2170, which excels in speed but can be less user-friendly for beginners. However, this model’s bulkiness at nearly 100 pounds and its higher initial purchase price make it less ideal for small studios or artists on a tight budget. The touchscreen interface simplifies operation, and the wide media compatibility supports a variety of art papers, but it remains a print-only device, limiting versatility. Overall, this printer suits artists who prioritize color fidelity and robust features over space or cost constraints.
Pros:- Vibrant, detailed color output with crisp resolution
- Automatic media feeding for efficient workflow
- Wireless connectivity offers flexible placement
Cons:- Heavy and bulky, requiring dedicated space
- Limited to print functions only, no scanning or copying
Best for: Artists or small studios needing high-quality, versatile color prints with easy wireless connectivity
Not ideal for: Small spaces or artists seeking a budget-friendly, multi-functional device because of its weight and cost
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Print Width:24 inches
- Print Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi (color), 600 dpi (black & white)
- Color Ink Colors:Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
- Maximum Print Speed:15 ppm (color), 20 ppm (black & white)
- Connectivity:Wired (USB, Ethernet), Wireless (Wi-Fi)
Bottom line: This printer is ideal for artists who need reliable, high-quality color reproduction and have space for a larger device.
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-Inch Large Format Printer
The Canon TM-240 offers outstanding resolution at 2400 x 1200 dpi, making it ideal for detailed fine art prints that demand sharpness and color accuracy. It’s notably faster than the TC-21, capable of producing a print in about 3.2 minutes, which benefits busy studios. Compared with the Epson SureColor T2170, it provides water and UV resistance, perfect for outdoor or long-lasting art pieces. Still, its size and weight—over 88 pounds—may challenge those with limited space, and its higher price reflects its professional-grade capabilities. The limited media width to 24 inches means it’s not suitable for wider projects, but its automatic calibration and color consistency make it a top choice for artists needing durable, high-res output.
Pros:- Exceptional resolution for sharp, detailed images
- Fast printing speeds improve workflow efficiency
- Water and UV-resistant inks for outdoor durability
Cons:- Heavy and requires substantial space
- Limited to 24-inch media width, restricting larger projects
Best for: Artists producing outdoor signage or long-lasting fine art prints who value speed and durability
Not ideal for: Small studios or those on a tight budget, due to its size and cost
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Print Width:24 inches
- Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Ink Color:5-color set
- Print Speed:Up to 3.2 ppm
- Media Types:Banner, glossy, high-res paper, plain paper
Bottom line: This model suits professional artists needing high-res, durable prints with quick turnaround times.
Epson SureColor T2170 24-Inch Desktop Wireless Poster CAD Plotter Printer with PrecisionCore Printhead and All-Pigment Inks
The Epson SureColor T2170 excels at fast, precise large-format poster and CAD plotting with a 2400 dpi resolution that captures fine lines and vibrant colors. Its compact design makes it suitable for smaller offices or studios, contrasting with the bulkier Canon models. The large 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen simplifies operation, and its wireless capabilities add convenience. However, its reliance on Epson cartridges limits third-party ink options, which can increase long-term costs. The printer’s focus on technical and poster printing means it may lack some fine art-specific features like media flexibility or color gamut for delicate art reproductions. Still, for those prioritizing speed, ease of use, and durability, this model makes a compelling choice.
Pros:- High-resolution, sharp line and color detail
- Fast print speeds improve productivity
- Wireless connectivity simplifies setup
Cons:- Limited third-party ink options increase costs
- Designed mainly for technical and poster printing, less for delicate art
Best for: Architects, designers, or artists needing fast, durable poster and CAD printing with wireless ease
Not ideal for: Artists seeking highly nuanced color reproduction for fine art purposes, due to its technical focus and cartridge restrictions
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Print Width:24 inches
- Resolution:2400 dpi
- Ink Type:UltraChrome XD2 pigment
- Print Speed:43 seconds for A1
- Connectivity:Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct
Bottom line: This printer is best for professionals needing quick, durable large-format prints with straightforward operation.
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 24″ x 60′, 290gsm, Quick Dry, Wide Format Inkjet Compatible for Fine Art and Photography
This polyester matte canvas provides a high-quality, waterproof surface ideal for fine art and photography reproductions. Its 290gsm weight offers durability and a rich matte finish that minimizes glare, making it a good choice for Giclée prints. Compared with the thinner 200gsm options, this canvas feels more substantial and archival, though it comes at a higher cost. Compatibility with various ink types and printers broadens its use, but users must ensure their device supports the specific media. Its waterproof coating guarantees vivid, long-lasting results, yet it demands careful handling and proper printer matching to avoid issues with ink absorption or stretching. This canvas is well-suited for artists looking for professional, museum-quality reproductions.
Pros:- Waterproof coating ensures vivid, durable prints
- Heavyweight, archival quality material
- Versatile media compatibility across ink types
Cons:- More expensive than standard canvas options
- Requires printer compatibility for best results
Best for: Fine art printers and photographers aiming for durable, waterproof canvas reproductions
Not ideal for: Artists with budget constraints or printers incompatible with thicker media, due to higher cost and weight
- Size:24″ x 60′
- GSM:290gsm
- Material:Polyester
- Finish:Matte
- Waterproof Coating:Yes
- Compatibility:Aqueous dye, pigment, eco-solvent, UV
Bottom line: This canvas is perfect for artists seeking high-end, waterproof reproductions with excellent longevity.
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 24″ x 100′, 6 Rolls, 200gsm
This polyester matte canvas roll offers a cost-effective, versatile solution for professional artists producing large, long-term projects. Its 200gsm weight balances print quality with affordability, and waterproof, matte coating ensures sharp, vivid images with protection against moisture. Its length—100 feet over six rolls—makes it suitable for high-volume reproduction work. Compared to the 290gsm option, this roll is lighter and more flexible, but may be less durable over time. Compatibility with a wide range of inkjet printers, including eco-solvent and UV models, makes it a flexible choice for various studio setups. However, handling such large rolls requires appropriate storage and mounting considerations, especially for delicate or framed pieces. It’s a strong choice for budget-conscious artists needing large-format, high-quality canvas.
Pros:- Vivid, waterproof, matte finish for professional-grade results
- Large 100-foot length for high-volume projects
- Compatible with multiple ink types and printers
Cons:- Less heavy and durable than 290gsm options
- Requires compatible printer for optimal results
Best for: Artists and print studios producing large volumes of fine art or photography on a budget
Not ideal for: Artists seeking the highest archival quality or working with printers incompatible with 200gsm media
- Size:24″ x 100′
- GSM:200gsm
- Rolls:6
- Material:Polyester
- Coating:Waterproof, matte
Bottom line: Ideal for high-volume, large-scale fine art printing where cost efficiency and size matter most.
Elegance Velvet 24 in x 40 ft Roll – Premium Matte 310 gsm Fine Art Inkjet Paper
This premium velvet matte paper stands out for its exceptional longevity, with a lifespan exceeding 100 years, thanks to its high-quality cotton fiber composition. Its mould-made texture and velvet finish give fine art prints a rich, tactile appearance that surpasses standard matte papers like the Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, which offers durability but a less nuanced surface. The high white point ensures vibrant, true-to-life colors, making it ideal for gallery-quality reproductions. However, its weight of 310 gsm means it demands a compatible printer with sufficient ink capacity and handling, which might be a challenge for some. The higher price reflects its archival promise, making it less suitable for casual or short-term projects. Overall, this paper is perfect for artists and collectors seeking longevity and texture, with the tradeoff of needing a robust printer and higher investment.Pros:- Extremely durable with over 100-year archival life
- Velvet matte texture enhances visual depth and tactile quality
- Compatible with most dye-based and pigment printers, offering versatility
- High white point delivers vibrant, accurate colors
Cons:- Heavy weight can be challenging for some printers to handle
- Higher cost than standard fine art papers
- Requires compatible printers with sufficient ink capacity
Best for: Artists and collectors who prioritize archival longevity and tactile surface quality in fine art prints.
Not ideal for: Hobbyists or casual photographers seeking affordable, quick-turnaround printing solutions.
- Size:24 in x 40 ft
- Weight:310 gsm
- Thickness:19 mil
- Texture:Velvet matte
- Material:100% cotton fiber
- Color:Bright white
- Archival quality:Yes
- Compatibility:Most dye-based and pigment printers
Bottom line: This paper makes the most sense for those who need lasting, textured fine art prints and are willing to invest in quality equipment.
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 24″ x 60′, 290gsm, 2 Rolls
This polyester matte canvas is tailored for artists and photographers who need durable, waterproof prints with vibrant colors. Compared to the Elegance Velvet paper, which emphasizes texture and longevity, this canvas offers a smooth, sturdy surface suitable for gallery display and outdoor use due to its waterproof coating. Its 290 gsm weight provides a substantial feel, while compatibility with a broad range of inks—including eco-solvent and latex—makes it versatile. However, its slightly higher cost and the need for specific printer settings can pose hurdles for those with limited experience. It excels in applications where durability and waterproof qualities are essential, though it may be less ideal for those seeking a traditional textured finish. This pick is perfect for professional projects demanding resilience and color vibrancy, with the tradeoff of requiring a compatible printer and careful setup.Pros:- Waterproof coating ensures long-lasting, vibrant prints
- Compatible with multiple inks including eco-solvent and latex
- Heavyweight, acid-free, archival quality canvas
- Versatile for fine art, photography, and commercial use
Cons:- Higher price compared to standard canvas options
- Requires specific printer settings for optimal results
- Less textured surface, may not appeal to those seeking traditional canvas feel
Best for: Photographers and artists needing waterproof, durable canvas for exhibitions or outdoor displays.
Not ideal for: Hobbyists on a tight budget or those preferring textured surfaces over smooth canvas.
- Size:24″ x 60′
- GSM:290gsm
- Material:Polyester
- Waterproof Coating:Yes
- Printer Compatibility:Aqueous dye, pigment ink, eco-solvent, latex UV
- Quantity:2 Rolls
Bottom line: Ideal for professionals requiring resilient, waterproof canvas prints that stand up to outdoor conditions and handling.
24″ x 100′ Premium Luster Inkjet Photo Paper – Roll
This luster photo paper excels in delivering vivid color and sharp detail, making it a prime choice for professional photographers. Its 24-inch width and 100-foot length provide a cost-effective solution for large-volume printing. Compared to the textured Elegance Velvet, this paper offers a smooth, slightly reflective surface that enhances color depth and clarity, but with less tactile appeal. The thicker base adds durability, although it demands a compatible printer capable of handling thicker media. Its German-made quality base ensures consistent results, yet its higher price may deter casual users. This product is best suited for those who prioritize vibrant color reproduction over texture or matte finishes, trading off tactile richness for brightness and durability.Pros:- Vibrant color reproduction with high detail clarity
- Thicker, more durable base for professional use
- Compatible with all major dye and pigment inkjet printers
- Long roll length offers good value for bulk printing
Cons:- More expensive than standard photo papers
- Requires a compatible printer capable of handling thicker media
- Less suitable for matte or textured finish preferences
Best for: Photographers producing large quantities of vibrant, detailed images for exhibitions or sales portfolios.
Not ideal for: Artists seeking textured or matte surfaces; casual users who prefer lower-cost options.
- Size:24 inches x 100 feet
- Finish:Luster
- Thickness:18% thicker than typical lab prints
- Material:German-made quality base
- Compatibility:All dye and pigment inkjet printers
Bottom line: This roll makes sense for photographers needing high-quality, large-volume prints with vibrant colors and durability.
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll for Wide Format Inkjet Printer, 24in x 100ft, 260gsm
This polyester matte canvas offers a versatile option for artists and photographers who want vibrant, quick-drying prints without the texture of traditional canvas. Compared to the Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, which has a slightly higher GSM (290gsm), this 260gsm version provides a lighter feel that may be easier for some printers to handle. Its quick-dry surface and compatibility across water-based, pigmented, eco-solvent, latex, and UV inks make it highly adaptable. However, color consistency can vary depending on the printing setup, and slight measurement discrepancies are possible. It’s a practical choice for those seeking a flexible, durable canvas for both fine art reproduction and creative projects, accepting some minor variability in color and size as tradeoffs.Pros:- Quick-dry surface facilitates fast workflows
- Compatible with a broad range of inks and printers
- Heavyweight, acid-free, durable canvas
- Suitable for painting or printing applications
Cons:- Possible color variation due to printing setup
- Minor measurement discrepancies may occur
- Less textured than traditional canvas options
Best for: Artists and photographers needing a lightweight, quick-drying canvas suitable for multiple ink types and artistic applications.
Not ideal for: Purists seeking textured, traditional canvas finishes or those with very strict color accuracy requirements.
- Material:Polyester
- Weight:260gsm
- Size:24in x 100ft
- Surface:Matte
- Printer Compatibility:All inkjet printers (water-based, pigmented, eco-solvent, latex, UV)
Bottom line: This canvas is a flexible, practical choice for artists and photographers needing quick-dry, durable prints across various ink types.
Professional Matte Canvas Roll – Wide Format Inkjet Printer, 24″ x 60ft
This professional-grade matte canvas is designed for large-scale, high-resolution prints with a focus on durability and color fidelity. Its multiple GSM options (200, 290, 300, 420) allow customization for specific project needs, making it versatile for both fine art and commercial applications. Compared with the Polyester Matte Canvas Roll at 260gsm, this product offers a broader range of weights, including heavier options for added texture or durability. Its waterproof, archival-quality coating supports outdoor and long-term display, but it comes at a higher price point and requires a compatible wide-format printer to realize its full potential. This canvas is best suited for professionals who need flexibility in weight and size while maintaining top print quality, with the tradeoff of increased cost and setup complexity.Pros:- Multiple GSM options for tailored texture and durability
- Waterproof, archival-quality coating for outdoor use
- Compatible with various printer types and inks
- Large width and length options for versatile projects
Cons:- Higher cost compared to lighter, standard canvases
- Requires a compatible wide-format inkjet printer
- Potentially more complex setup due to multiple GSM choices
Best for: Professionals producing large-scale, high-resolution fine art or commercial prints that demand durability and flexibility in media weight.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious hobbyists or those preferring ready-to-hang textured canvases without specific weight needs.
- Width:24 inches
- Length:60 feet
- GSM:200, 290, 300, 420
- Material:Poly-Cotton
- Compatibility:Aqueous dye, pigment ink, eco-solvent, latex UV
Bottom line: This canvas is an excellent choice for professionals needing large, durable, high-resolution prints with customizable weight options.
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 24″ x 100′, 200gsm
This polyester matte canvas stands out for its high-resolution, waterproof coating that produces vivid, sharp images, making it suitable for both fine art and professional photography. Compared with the Plotter Paper Direct 24in x 40ft Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, it offers a broader compatibility range with various inks and printers, ensuring versatility across different project requirements. The high archival quality and waterproof finish make it ideal for displays or outdoor applications, but this durability comes with a higher cost for larger sizes and GSM options. Its polyester surface tends to lack the natural texture of cotton-based canvases, which may be a drawback for traditionalists. Overall, this roll is best suited for artists or photographers seeking long-lasting, vibrant prints without sacrificing waterproof performance.
Pros:- Vivid, high-resolution prints with waterproof coating
- Wide compatibility with aqueous, pigment, eco-solvent, and UV inks
- Archival quality and durable polyester surface
Cons:- Limited to polyester material, lacking natural fiber texture
- Potentially higher cost for larger quantities or higher GSM options
Best for: Professional artists and photographers needing durable, waterproof prints for exhibitions or outdoor use
Not ideal for: Traditional fine art purists preferring cotton or linen textures, or budget-conscious hobbyists looking for lower-cost options
- Size:24″ x 100′
- Weight:200gsm
- Material:Polyester
- Surface:Matte
- Compatibility:Aqueous dye, pigment ink, eco-solvent, UV printers
- GSM options:200, 290, 300, 420
Bottom line: This canvas is perfect for professionals needing waterproof, vibrant, and durable prints with versatile ink compatibility.
Plotter Paper Direct 24in x 40ft Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 500 Denier, Quick Dry
This 15 mil matte polyester canvas excels in delivering vibrant, water-fast prints that dry quickly, making it ideal for artists and photographers who need fast turnaround without sacrificing quality. Unlike the Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 24″ x 100′, 200gsm, which emphasizes durability and archival qualities, this model prioritizes speed and crack resistance, beneficial for busy studios or commercial settings. Its compatibility with most wide-format inkjet printers using aqueous, dye, pigment, or latex UV inks grants broad flexibility, but it requires an additional protective coating for long-term preservation, adding extra steps and cost. Its 500 Denier thickness contributes to a sturdy, crack-resistant finish, though it may feel less natural compared to cotton-based canvases. This pick makes the most sense for artists producing multiple reproductions or commercial projects where quick drying and water-fast results are essential.
Pros:- Vibrant, water-fast, and quick-drying prints
- Compatible with most wide-format printers and inks
- Crack-resistant and durable for long-lasting artwork
- Versatile for artistic and commercial use
Cons:- Requires additional protective coating for archival longevity
- Higher price point compared to standard paper options
- Less natural texture, more synthetic feel
Best for: Artists and photographers needing rapid, water-fast prints for high-volume or commercial projects
Not ideal for: Fine art purists seeking traditional textures or those requiring immediate archival, as it needs extra coating for preservation
- Size:24 inches x 40 feet
- Material:Polyester
- Thickness:15 mil
- Denier:500
- Compatibility:HP, Canon, other wide-format printers
- Use:Fine art, photography, archival quality prints
Bottom line: This canvas is well-suited for busy art environments where speed and durability are prioritized over traditional textures.
How We Picked
Each product was evaluated based on performance, print quality, color accuracy, media versatility, ease of use, and value for money. We prioritized printers that are well-reviewed in the fine art community and those that offer a good balance of professional features without excessive complexity or cost. Our rankings reflect which models are best suited for different types of artists—whether beginners, enthusiasts, or professionals—by considering how they perform in real-world fine art printing scenarios. The selection process aimed to highlight options that excel in delivering vibrant, durable prints on 24-inch media while maintaining manageable operational costs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 24 Inch Pigment Printer For Fine Art
Choosing the best 24 inch pigment printer for fine art requires understanding several key factors that influence print quality, longevity, and usability. Beyond raw specifications, it’s important to consider how these features align with your specific artistic needs and workflow. Making informed decisions helps avoid common pitfalls like media incompatibility or underestimating maintenance requirements. Here are the critical factors to evaluate:Print Quality and Resolution
For fine art, resolution and color fidelity are paramount. Look for printers with at least 2400 dpi resolution, which ensures sharp details and smooth gradations. Consider the type of ink used; pigment inks tend to offer superior longevity and color stability, essential for artwork preservation. Keep in mind that higher resolution alone isn’t enough—how the printer manages color and tonal range makes a significant difference in final output quality.
Media Compatibility and Handling
Fine art printing often involves various media types like canvas, fine art paper, or specialty films. Ensure the printer supports a wide media range and has features like roll feed or manual loading for flexibility. Media handling mechanisms, such as adjustable guides and reliable feeding, reduce waste and misprints. Choosing a printer that can accommodate your preferred materials will save time and improve consistency.
Color Accuracy and Calibration
Accurate color reproduction is critical in fine art. Look for models with advanced color management tools, including calibration options and wide color gamuts. Compatibility with color profiles and color management software can streamline workflow and ensure that what you see on screen matches your prints. Inaccurate color can compromise the integrity of your artwork, making calibration features a worthwhile investment.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
A user-friendly interface and straightforward maintenance routines are often overlooked but vital for consistent output. Consider printers with clear LCD screens, simple ink replacement, and minimal downtime. Automated cleaning and self-diagnostic tools help maintain print quality over time. For artists without extensive technical expertise, ease of operation ensures you focus more on creating than troubleshooting.
Cost and Long-Term Value
Initial purchase price is just one aspect; ongoing costs for inks, media, and maintenance significantly impact overall value. High-quality pigment inks tend to be more expensive but offer better longevity and color stability. Evaluate the cost per print and media compatibility to ensure the investment aligns with your production volume. Sometimes, spending more upfront leads to savings and better results over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between different ink types for fine art printing?
For fine art, pigment inks are generally preferred due to their superior longevity, water resistance, and color stability. They resist fading over decades, which is essential for artworks intended for display or sale. Dye-based inks, while often producing more vibrant colors initially, tend to fade faster and are less suitable for archival purposes. When selecting inks, also consider compatibility with your media and the printer’s ability to reproduce a wide color gamut for accurate reproduction of your artwork.
Can I print on canvas with these printers, and what should I look for?
Most 24-inch pigment printers support canvas printing, but it’s important to verify media compatibility and the presence of adjustable media guides. Look for printers that can handle flexible, thicker media without creasing or feeding issues. Some models include special roll support or manual feed options specifically designed for canvas. Additionally, consider the availability of media clamps or holders that help keep canvas flat during printing, ensuring sharp, even results.
What maintenance routines are necessary to keep my printer producing quality prints?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning print heads, replacing ink cartridges when needed, and calibrating color profiles periodically. Many printers include automatic cleaning cycles, which simplify this process. Keeping the media path clear and ensuring the printer is stored in a dust-free environment also helps maintain consistent quality. Investing time in routine maintenance prevents clogs, color inaccuracies, and mechanical issues that can compromise fine art prints.
Is it worth investing in a higher-end model for fine art printing?
Higher-end models typically offer wider color gamuts, higher resolution, and better media handling, which translate into more accurate and detailed prints. While they cost more upfront, they often provide better longevity and color stability, critical for fine art use. If your work demands the highest quality and archival standards, investing in a premium printer is justified. However, for hobbyists or those just starting, a mid-range model may deliver excellent results at a lower cost.
How important is media versatility in choosing a printer?
Media versatility is vital for artists who work with different textures and materials, such as canvas, watercolor paper, or specialty films. A printer that supports various media types and thicknesses offers greater creative flexibility. It also reduces the need for multiple printers, saving space and costs. Make sure the printer’s media handling system can accommodate your preferred materials without issues like jams or uneven feeding, which can impact the quality of your fine art prints.
Conclusion
For artists seeking the best overall performance with a focus on color accuracy and ease of use, the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 stands out as a balanced choice. Those prioritizing long-term value and cost efficiency might lean toward mid-range options that deliver reliable results without breaking the bank. Photographers and professional artists aiming for top-tier archival quality should consider premium models like high-end Epson SureColor printers. Beginners or hobbyists will find more affordable, user-friendly options suited to their needs. Ultimately, matching your specific art style and production volume with these considerations will lead to the best printer choice for your workspace.
