Finding the ideal 36 inch photo printer for art involves balancing print quality, media versatility, and ease of use. The HP DesignJet T650 stands out as the best overall, offering reliable large-format printing with professional results. For artists prioritizing cost-effective media options, the Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 36″ x 100′ provides excellent value. If you need a multifunction device, the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M delivers versatility in a compact package. Keep reading to explore these options and understand their tradeoffs, so you can pick the best fit for your art printing needs.
Prime made for students and young adults
- Fast, free delivery for dorm and study essentials
- Prime Video and Amazon Music included
- Member-only deals
Key Takeaways
- The top printers balance print quality with media versatility, with the HP DesignJet T650 excelling in both.
- Media compatibility and handling are critical, especially for artists working with different textured or specialty papers.
- Cost per print and media options significantly impact long-term value, making media compatibility a key consideration.
- Multifunction printers like the Canon TC-21M offer flexible use but may compromise on speed or maximum media width.
- Higher-end models tend to focus on color accuracy and durability, suitable for professional fine art reproduction.
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer |  | Best Overall for Precision and Workflow Integration | Media Size: Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19-inch sheets | Media Handling: Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch, media bin, horizontal cutter | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 36″ x 100′, 290gsm, Quick Dry, Wide Format Inkjet Compatible |  | Best for Fine Art Reproduction and Wall Décor | Material: Polyester | Size: 36″ x 100′ | GSM: 290 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with Auto Sheet Feeder, Media Bin & Stand |  | Best for Technical and Architectural Drafting | Media Size: Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19 inches sheets | Media Handling: Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch, media bin | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M 24-Inch Large Format Multifunction Printer |  | Best for Versatile Reproduction and Educational Use | Maximum Print Width: 24 inches | Print Resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi | Scanner Type: Flatbed | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 36″ x 100′, 200gsm, Quick Dry, Wide Format Inkjet Compatible for Fine Art and Photography |  | Best for Affordable Fine Art Reproduction | Material: Polyester | Size: 36″ x 100′ | GSM: 200 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-Inch Large Format Printer |  | Best for Outdoor-Resistant Art and Fast Turnaround | Printer Type: Inkjet | Maximum Print Width: 24 inches | Print Resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| inch photo printer for art | Connectivity | Print Speed |
|---|---|---|
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 | Up to 25 seconds per page on A1/D size |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas | — | — |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | Not specified, optimized for technical accuracy |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M 24-I | USB, cloud, Ethernet | — |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas | — | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-I | — | up to 3.2 ppm |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer
The HP DesignJet T650 stands out for its ability to produce highly detailed technical drawings, renders, and posters with professional quality. Compared with the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M, it offers faster print speeds and more advanced media handling, making it ideal for busy design studios. However, its larger size and complexity might be overwhelming for casual users or small offices. Its support for multiple media types and automatic media switching provide flexibility, while cost-efficient ink usage reduces long-term expenses. Despite the higher initial investment, this model’s seamless workflow integration simplifies large-format printing tasks.
Pros:- Exceptional accuracy for technical and architectural prints
- Supports multiple media sizes and automatic media switching
- Efficient ink consumption reduces ongoing costs
- Intuitive workflow integration via HP software
Cons:- High purchase price may deter casual or small-scale users
- Large footprint requires significant space for setup
- Complex features could have a steep learning curve for beginners
Best for: Architects, engineers, or large design teams needing precise, high-volume large-format printing
Not ideal for: Small creative freelancers or hobbyists with limited space or infrequent print needs
- Media Size:Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19-inch sheets
- Media Handling:Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch, media bin, horizontal cutter
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11
- Print Speed:Up to 25 seconds per page on A1/D size
- Memory:1GB RAM
- Included Ink:HP 712 Original Ink cartridges (Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow), HP 713 Printhead
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for professionals who need reliable, high-precision large-format outputs with smooth workflow integration.”
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 36″ x 100′, 290gsm, Quick Dry, Wide Format Inkjet Compatible
This canvas roll excels in delivering high-quality, archival matte finishes perfect for fine art, photography, and gallery displays. Compared with the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M, which offers versatile media options, this canvas provides a superior matte surface that enhances vibrant detail and reduces glare. Its quick-dry coating supports faster production workflows, though the weight and handling require sturdy equipment. Its recyclability and archival qualities make it ideal for artists and galleries seeking professional reproductions, but the limited size per roll means less flexibility for large projects.
Pros:- High-quality matte surface enhances color vibrancy and detail
- Quick-dry coating supports faster turnaround
- Archival and recyclable for long-lasting prints
- Compatible with various ink types for versatility
Cons:- Heavy weight makes handling more challenging
- Limited to one sheet per roll, restricting large projects
- Price point may be high for occasional users
Best for: Fine art printers, photographers, and galleries reproducing artwork for display or sale
Not ideal for: Casual hobbyists or small-scale printers who prefer single-sheet printing or lighter materials
- Material:Polyester
- Size:36″ x 100′
- GSM:290
- Weight:340 g
- Finish:Matte
- Compatibility:Dye, pigment, latex, eco-solvent, solvent, UV inks
Our verdict“This canvas roll is a top choice for professional fine art reproduction where print quality and durability matter most.”
HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer with Auto Sheet Feeder, Media Bin & Stand
The HP DesignJet T630 provides reliable large-format printing tailored for technical drawings, maps, and posters, much like the T650 but with a focus on ease of use. Its automatic sheet and roll handling, combined with wireless connectivity, makes it a more user-friendly option compared to the more complex T650. While it lacks some of the advanced workflow features of the T650, it offers a more straightforward experience for professionals who mainly print technical documents and need quick, dependable outputs without extensive setup. Its slightly lower price point makes it appealing for smaller architectural firms or educational institutions.
Pros:- Supports large media widths up to 36 inches
- Automatic sheet and roll switching for versatility
- Easy wireless connectivity for quick printing
- Includes a stand and media bin for convenience
Cons:- Less suited for photo or art printing due to focus on technical media
- Limited advanced workflow features compared to T650
- Primarily aimed at professional use, not casual hobbyists
Best for: Architectural firms, engineering teams, or educational environments requiring straightforward large-format printing
Not ideal for: Artists or photographers seeking high-end color accuracy or fine art media handling
- Media Size:Up to 36-inch wide media rolls, 13×19 inches sheets
- Media Handling:Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic switch, media bin
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Hi-Speed USB 2.0
- Print Speed:Not specified, optimized for technical accuracy
- Included Accessories:Stand, media bin
- Warranty:2-year onsite support
Our verdict“This printer offers straightforward, reliable large-format printing ideal for technical and architectural projects, especially in institutional settings.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M 24-Inch Large Format Multifunction Printer
The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M offers a broader range of functions, including scanning with its flatbed scanner, making it suitable for enlargements, labels, and posters. Compared with the HP DesignJet T650, which emphasizes high-precision large-format printing, the TC-21M’s multifunction capabilities provide extra value for educational or small business environments. Its maximum print width of 24 inches limits larger projects but enhances portability and space efficiency. Its support for cloud connectivity and USB printing makes it flexible, though the absence of wireless options could hinder convenience for some users.
Pros:- Versatile with scanning, copying, and printing functions
- Supports cloud printing and USB connectivity
- Compact size suitable for smaller spaces
- Supports a variety of media including banners and labels
Cons:- Limited to 24-inch maximum print width, restricting larger art projects
- No built-in wireless connectivity, reducing ease of use
- Less suited for high-volume or detailed art printing compared to larger-format dedicated printers
Best for: Educational institutions, small businesses, or professionals needing multifunctionality in a compact footprint
Not ideal for: High-volume print shops or artists requiring 36-inch wide art-specific media handling
- Maximum Print Width:24 inches
- Print Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Connectivity:USB, cloud, Ethernet
- Additional Features:Auto sheet feeder
- Item Dimensions:21″D x 38″W x 10″H
Our verdict“This multifunction printer makes sense for users needing a compact, versatile device for diverse printing and scanning tasks, not for large-scale fine art production.”
Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll, 36″ x 100′, 200gsm, Quick Dry, Wide Format Inkjet Compatible for Fine Art and Photography
This canvas roll offers a more economical option compared to the 290gsm version, making it suitable for artists and photographers seeking quality results without premium costs. Its 200gsm weight and matte finish deliver sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors, comparable to the canvas roll at 290gsm, but with a lighter feel. While handling might be easier due to lower weight, the single-roll format limits large projects. Its quick-dry coating ensures faster production times, ideal for small galleries or artists producing multiple reproductions quickly.
Pros:- Affordable option with high-quality matte finish
- Quick-dry coating speeds up production
- Vibrant colors with sharp detail for fine art
- Compatible with multiple ink types
Cons:- Limited to one sheet per roll, reducing output volume
- Heavier and less flexible handling compared to lighter canvases
- Not ideal for large, multi-piece projects
Best for: Artists, photographers, or small galleries producing reproductions and wall art with budget considerations
Not ideal for: High-volume commercial printing or projects requiring the thickest, most durable canvas
- Material:Polyester
- Size:36″ x 100′
- GSM:200
- Weight:14 pounds
- Finish:Matte
- Compatibility:Multiple inks
Our verdict“This canvas roll is a practical choice for artists and small studios seeking quality reproduction at a more accessible price point.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-Inch Large Format Printer
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 stands out for its ability to produce high-quality, water-resistant prints on a variety of media, making it an excellent choice for outdoor signage and vibrant art pieces. Compared with the HP DesignJet T650, which offers a larger 36-inch width, the TM-240’s 24-inch maximum print width limits its size but provides superior resolution and color accuracy at that scale. Its 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution ensures crisp details, ideal for detailed artwork, while the fast print speed of 3.2 ppm helps meet tight deadlines. The water- and UV-resistant inks give this model an edge for art that needs to withstand weather. However, it’s quite bulky, weighing over 88 pounds, and with only one media tray, media handling is less flexible. Its higher price reflects its professional-grade features, but space and media capacity could be drawbacks for smaller studios.
Pros:- High-resolution, sharp detail with 2400 x 1200 dpi output
- Water- and UV-resistant inks suitable for outdoor use
- Fast printing speeds support professional workflows
- Automatic media detection and color calibration improve print consistency
Cons:- Limited to 24-inch maximum print width, restricting larger art projects
- Heavy and bulky, requiring substantial space and setup effort
- Single media tray reduces flexibility for multiple media types
Best for: Artists or print shops needing durable outdoor art or signage at medium sizes with precise color fidelity.
Not ideal for: Home art enthusiasts or small studios that require larger 36-inch prints or more media versatility, since the TM-240’s max width is 24 inches and it’s heavy to move around.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Print Width:24 inches
- Print Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed:up to 3.2 ppm
- Number of Ink Colors:5
- Media Types:Banner paper, Glossy photo paper, High-resolution paper, Plain paper
- Item Weight:88.2 pounds
- Item Dimensions:29.4″D x 38.5″W x 17.2″H
- Compatible Devices:Laptops, PCs
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for artists and professionals needing durable, high-quality prints at medium sizes with fast turnaround times.”
How We Picked
The selection process focused on printers that can handle 36-inch wide media, emphasizing print quality, media versatility, and ease of operation. We evaluated build quality, media handling options, color accuracy, and ongoing maintenance costs. Devices with reliable media feeding and minimal user intervention scored higher, as these features are vital for producing consistent art prints. Our rankings reflect a balance between professional-grade performance and value, ensuring options for both budget-conscious artists and high-end professionals.| inch photo printer for art | Connectivity | Print Speed |
|---|---|---|
| HP DesignJet T650 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 | Up to 25 seconds per page on A1/D size |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas | — | — |
| HP DesignJet T630 Large Format | Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | Not specified, optimized for technical accuracy |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M 24-I | USB, cloud, Ethernet | — |
| Premium Polyester Matte Canvas | — | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-I | — | up to 3.2 ppm |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 36 Inch Photo Printer For Art
Choosing the right 36 inch photo printer for art requires understanding several key factors. Art printing demands high color fidelity, media flexibility, and durability, so weighing these elements can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your investment aligns with your creative goals.Print Quality and Color Fidelity
For fine art, color accuracy and vibrancy are paramount. Look for printers with wide color gamuts, high resolution (at least 2400 dpi), and support for professional-grade inks. A printer that delivers consistent, fade-resistant prints can make a significant difference in the final presentation of your artwork. Keep in mind that some printers excel in color accuracy but may take longer to produce prints, so balance quality with speed based on your workflow.
Media Compatibility and Handling
Artists often work with a variety of media, from glossy papers to textured canvas. Ensuring your printer can accommodate multiple media types and thicknesses without jamming or misfeeding is essential. Consider models with adjustable media rollers and easy media loading features to minimize frustration. A printer limited to specific media types may restrict your creative options or increase operational costs.
Print Speed and Workflow
While speed might seem less critical for art prints, it becomes relevant if you’re producing large volumes or working on tight deadlines. High-end large-format printers can take several minutes per print, which might impact your productivity. Assess your typical print size and volume to choose a model that balances quality with efficiency, especially if you plan to use the printer frequently.
Cost of Maintenance and Ink
Long-term costs often surpass initial investment. Some printers require proprietary inks that can be expensive, and frequent maintenance can add to total ownership costs. Check the availability and price of replacement inks, and consider models with user-friendly maintenance routines. Choosing a printer with economical ink options can help sustain your art practice without unexpected expenses.
Size, Space, and Connectivity
Ensure your workspace can accommodate a 36-inch printer comfortably. Consider the device’s footprint, weight, and ventilation needs. Connectivity options like USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi influence how seamlessly you can integrate the printer into your workflow. A compact, network-ready model offers more flexibility, especially if your studio space is limited or if multiple users need access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print on textured canvas with a 36 inch photo printer?
Yes, many large-format printers support textured or thick media like canvas, but it’s important to verify media compatibility beforehand. Look for printers with adjustable media rollers and support for heavier, textured paper types. Proper media handling ensures your textured art prints are free of jams or misalignments, maintaining the quality and integrity of your artwork.
What is the difference between dye-based and pigment-based inks for art printing?
Dye-based inks typically produce more vibrant colors and a wider color gamut, making them suitable for photographic art. However, they are more susceptible to fading over time. Pigment-based inks, on the other hand, offer superior longevity and water resistance, ideal for fine art prints meant to last. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize color vibrancy or durability for your artwork.
Is it worth investing in a multifunction printer for art production?
Multifunction printers combine printing, scanning, and copying, offering versatility for artists who also digitize their work or need to produce proofs. They can save space and money compared to separate devices but may compromise on speed or maximum media width. If your workflow benefits from scanning or copying, a multifunction model can be a valuable addition, provided it meets your print quality standards.
How important is resolution for large-format art prints?
Resolution directly impacts the detail and sharpness of your prints. For large-format art, a resolution of at least 2400 dpi ensures fine details are preserved, especially when printing high-resolution images or intricate designs. Lower resolutions might suffice for casual or decorative prints, but for professional-quality artwork, higher resolution is generally worth the investment.
What should I consider when choosing media for large-format art printing?
Selecting the right media involves considering the surface texture, weight, and compatibility with your printer and inks. Artists often choose gloss, matte, or textured surfaces depending on the desired aesthetic. It’s also important to verify that the media is archival quality if longevity matters. Using high-quality, compatible media ensures your prints maintain their appearance over time and match your artistic vision.
Conclusion
For those seeking a reliable, high-quality all-around performer, the HP DesignJet T650 stands out as the best overall choice, balancing quality with usability. Artists on a budget or working with a variety of media might prefer the Premium Polyester Matte Canvas Roll for excellent value, especially if you print frequently on textured surfaces. Professionals prioritizing longevity and color accuracy should consider premium options like high-end pigment ink printers, while beginners or hobbyists will find compact models like the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 easier to operate. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific needs—whether it’s print quality, media versatility, or workflow integration.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day Picks
long weekend sales
