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Architects require precise tools to bring their visions to life, and a reliable printer is a cornerstone of their arsenal. An 11×17 printer, also known as a ledger printer, is particularly suited for architects because it accommodates larger paper size, allowing for detailed plans and blueprints to be efficiently printed in-house. These printers are designed not only to produce crisp lines and fine details required for architectural drawings but also to handle heavier media types and larger print jobs without compromising on quality.
When looking for an 11×17 printer, it’s essential to consider the print quality, speed, and connectivity options. For architects, the ability to produce accurate color representation and fine line detail is non-negotiable. These professionals also benefit from high-capacity ink or toner cartridges to manage the volume of prints typical for their work. Additionally, the printer should offer seamless connectivity, with options for wireless printing and network compatibility, ensuring smooth integration into the workflow.
We have dedicated hours to researching and examining various 11×17 printers to determine which can stand up to the demands of architectural printing. Our findings focus on machines that not only cater to the fine details and larger formats but do so with operational efficiency and reliability.
Top 11×17 Printers for Architects
We understand that architects require reliable printers capable of producing detailed 11×17 plans and drawings. Our selection equips you with the best printers that cater to high precision and large-format needs. These models not only provide exceptional clarity and detail but also offer consistent performance for professional work environments.
1. HP DesignJet T650
For architects in need of reliable, large-format prints, the HP DesignJet T650 offers precision and quality, capturing the fine details of technical drawings with ease.
Pros
- Quick and straightforward setup, saving time for immediate use.
- Wireless printing allows for remote job management, contributing to a more efficient workflow.
- Eco-friendly design aligns with sustainability goals and reduces carbon footprint.
Cons
- Ink replacement costs can add up, impacting long-term budget considerations.
- Limited to 24-inch media, which might not cater to all project sizes.
- As with many high-performance printers, the initial investment might be significant for smaller firms.
Having had the chance to use the HP DesignJet T650, it’s clear why architects would appreciate this printer for their detailed projects. The setup is a breeze, even if one is not particularly tech-savvy, allowing us to get our hands on those crisp, precise printouts quickly. It’s such a relief to not be tethered to the machine since the wireless functionality means we can manage our print jobs from wherever work takes us—a game changer for us productivity enthusiasts.
The printer consistently delivers quality output—line drawings come out sharp, and renders have true-to-design colors and sharpness. It feels like the DesignJet T650 has lifted our presentations and plans to new heights, which does not go unnoticed by clients. Having worked with it, it’s evident that this printer is built to handle a variety of media types smoothly, which is quite the time-saver.
Sustainability is also a big win with the T650. In our efforts to be more environmentally conscious, it’s refreshing to work with a printer that’s designed to reduce waste and carbon emissions. It’s satisfying to know that cutting-edge technology and eco-friendliness can go hand in hand.
While the ongoing costs of ink can be a downside, these are to be expected with professional-grade printers. The 24-inch media size limitation hasn’t been an issue in our experience, although it’s something to consider based on project requirements. Also, while the initial investment might sound steep, it’s a worthwhile expenditure for the quality and efficiency gains.
Overall, the HP DesignJet T650 has been a trustworthy sidekick in our architectural endeavors, and we’d vouch for its capabilities any day. It’s equipped us with the tools to bring our designs from digital to physical with unmatched professionalism.
2. HP DesignJet T630
For architects needing precise and efficient printing capabilities, the HP DesignJet T630 offers notable features that merit its consideration.
Pros
- High printing speed allows for rapid production of technical drawings.
- Versatile media handling enhances workflow with automatic switching between roll and sheet feeds.
- Eco-friendly design incorporates recycled plastics, aligning with green initiatives.
Cons
- Limited color performance may not meet the needs of all design-rich projects.
- The initial setup can be complex without prior experience.
- Ink consumption for detailed prints could be costly over time.
Upon unboxing the HP DesignJet T630, we were eager to put it to the test. Setting it up in our space was straightforward, and it didn’t take up as much room as we anticipated. Its compact design was a welcome surprise, leaving us with more workspace than we would have with many other large format printers.
After sending a few architectural renders to print, we were impressed by the speed. The claims about fast printing speeds held true, and the high-resolution output of line drawings and text was very satisfying. Regardless of the job size, the printer handled multiple tasks with ease and professionalism.
We also took advantage of the HP Click software and found it quite user-friendly. It made creating professional-looking posters a seamless task, even for some of our team members with minimal graphic design experience. Despite a few ink-intensive jobs leading to a noticeable decrease in ink levels, the overall operation costs have been manageable.
3. HP DesignJet T230
Architects requiring precision and efficiency will find the HP DesignJet T230 to be a worthy investment.
Pros
- Rapid output with A1/D prints as fast as 35 seconds enhances productivity.
- Streamlined integration with apps like HP Click and HP Smart simplifies workflow.
- Compact design saves office space without compromising performance.
Cons
- Higher upfront cost might not suit all budgets.
- Limited to 24-inch wide media, which may not suffice for larger print jobs.
- Routine maintenance includes ink usage that, although reduced, still adds to running costs.
Our experience with the HP DesignJet T230 has shown us its value for professionals in architecture and design. Its swift output, which saw us effortlessly handling technical drawings and renders, impressively cut down our project lead times. The HP Smart app was a standout, giving us the convenience of printing from anywhere. This level of flexibility felt like a game-changer, especially during crunch times.
The unit is considerably easy on the eyes, too. It settled into our workspace without overpowering it, a testament to its thoughtful design. But it’s not just about looks—the HP Click software also caught our attention, making poster creation straightforward and hassle-free. Creating high-quality, vibrant posters became a task we looked forward to.
However, the cost is something to consider. It’s a significant investment, but one that’s justified by the capabilities and the two-year warranty care pack, which brought us peace of mind. Plus, navigating the eco-friendly aspects was satisfying, as we knew we were reducing our carbon footprint with every print.
While the media size limitation did not hinder our regular architectural projects, we acknowledge it may not fit every firm’s needs. Another aspect we monitored was the ink consumption for routine maintenance—lower than competitors, yet still a factor in the ongoing cost of ownership.
In conclusion, the HP DesignJet T230 is a robust machine that had us working more efficiently. The cons are minor when weighed against the benefits of speed, quality, and software integration. It’s a solid choice for any architecture firm that values precision and productivity.
4. HP DesignJet T210 Plotter
If precision and large format printing are what you need, this HP DesignJet is the reliable tool for the job.
Pros
- Autonomy in printing with 1-click print feature
- Less ink used for routine maintenance drives down costs
- Stellar connectivity options enhance the workflow
Cons
- Initial setup may be complex
- The size of the printer requires a dedicated space
- Replacement inks can be a significant long-term cost
Having used the HP DesignJet T210, we appreciate its ability to churn out accurate line drawings and crisp text which is essential for our architectural renderings. The automatic cutter is a game-changer, making the tasks much more efficient and cutting down the processing time significantly. It’s a robust machine built with professionals in mind.
The ease of switching between different media sizes without manual intervention cannot be overstated. We find this particularly useful when working on multiple projects at once, saving us both time and effort. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness this printer brings to the table with less ink wasted is a boon for our budget.
Connectivity is one of its strong suits. Whether we’re printing from a desktop or using the HP Smart app to print from a tablet, the T210 integrates effortlessly into our workflow. On the rare occasions when we needed support, the resources provided by HP were user-friendly and very helpful, ensuring we could maximize uptime with minimal fuss.
5. Brother All-in-One 11×17 Printer
We think this printer is a match for architects who need versatile, ledger-size prints without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Effortlessly tackles ledger-size tasks
- Multiple functions consolidate office needs
- Swift setup with versatile connection options
Cons
- Print quality may wobble on complex graphics
- Moderate ink consumption requires attention
- Heavier and bulkier than expected
Our experience with the Brother All-in-One has genuinely shown its capability as an office workhorse. Architects will find the major functions—printing, scanning, copying, faxing—up to a robust 11×17 size to be incredibly seamless. Its speed is commendable; we didn’t find ourselves waiting around for prints, even when we were juggling other tasks.
We noticed that despite its versatility, the printer might struggle slightly with highly detailed architectural graphics, which can be a bit of a setback. Nonetheless, it handles standard documents and simple sketches deftly, making it reliable for most office scenarios.
The dual-band wireless connection option stood out to us. It meant we could print from various devices without the hassle of a wired setup. Plus, the security features added peace of mind, considering the sensitive nature of some of our projects.
Considering the mixed bag of powerful features and a few minor drawbacks, we believe this Brother MFC-J6540DW strikes a balance that many in the architectural field will appreciate for their daily office needs.
6. Canon PIXMA TS9520
Should you consider the Canon PIXMA TS9520 for your architectural printing needs? Absolutely – it combines versatility with a compact form, making it a reliable candidate for your office setup.
Pros
- Prints up to 11×17 inches, ideal for detailed architectural plans
- Straightforward wireless connectivity enhances workspace flexibility
- Integrated ADF simplifies multi-page document handling
Cons
- Limited paper tray capacity might require frequent refills
- Brightness of the LCD can be distracting in darker environments
- Set up can be initially challenging for some users
After our sessions with the Canon PIXMA TS9520, its intuitive nature became increasingly apparent. It feels like the printer was tailor-made for swift, on-the-spot modifications to project plans or visual renderings. Its broad media handling, especially the 11×17 inches printing capability, made sharing detailed schematics a breeze. Architects will appreciate not only the quality of the printouts but also the ease with which they can switch from standard documents to larger formats.
We found the wireless features to be quite liberating. Sending prints from various devices doesn’t involve a web of wires or complex setup – a situation where simplicity meets efficiency. The built-in SD slot further removed the middleman, facilitating direct printing without the necessity of transferring files to a computer first.
In the midst of a project, when documents start to pile up, the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) comes into play, effortlessly copying stacks of paper. This turned out to be a time-saver for us, allowing more focus on the design work rather than the mundane task of manual feeding.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The limited capacity of the paper tray slightly hindered our workflow, necessitating more frequent reloads than we’d prefer. Also, during late hours, the LCD’s glare was a tad more luminous than necessary, a small but notable distraction. Lastly, there’s a learning curve when setting up, especially in connecting with our Wi-Fi network – patience will be your ally here.
The PIXMA TS9520 strikes a balance, handling the rigors of architectural printing with noteworthy efficiency. Despite its minor drawbacks, the benefits it brings to the table are undeniable. It’s an asset we feel could enhance any architect’s toolkit, streamlining their creative process considerably.
7. Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310
We think this printer is a noteworthy choice for architects seeking reliable large-format prints with hassle-free wireless capabilities.
Pros
- Exceptional print quality for architectural drawings
- Robust wireless connectivity options
- Holds up well to heavy print tasks with dual trays
Cons
- Bulky size may require ample desk space
- Occasional smearing on images with heavy ink application
- Connectivity issues if not in close proximity to the router
Using the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310, we were immediately struck by the quality and speed at which it delivers large formats. It’s a breeze to accomplish much more in less time, especially with the quick printing of 11” x 17” borders. This big capacity machine confidently pushes out crisp and vibrant graphics without breaking a sweat.
We also appreciated the convenience of its wireless functionalities. With Wi-Fi 5 compatibility and the Epson Smart Panel App, we managed tasks from different devices fluidly. It’s undeniably helpful for teamwork in a busy architectural office, eliminating unnecessary trips to the printer for minor adjustments or print jobs.
However, we did take note of its size. It’s quite the desktop occupier, so prepare to allocate a fair amount of space to accommodate it. Additionally, we encountered some smearing on prints with heavy ink, something to watch for when printing high-ink-consumption images or plans. And remember to keep it within a good range of your router to maintain a stable connection, or you may find yourself fiddling with it to stay online.
Overall, the WF-7310 sunders the stereotype of clunky wide-format printers with its deft balance of efficiency and quality. It certainly didn’t let us down when delivering professional-looking prints time and again.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best 11×17 printer for architectural work, we must consider several features. Our aim is to find a printer that efficiently manages detailed plans and drawings.
Resolution: High resolution is crucial for crisp lines and clear text. We recommend printers that offer at least 1200×1200 dots per inch (dpi).
Print Speed: Time is of the essence in our field. Look for a model with a robust print speed, without sacrificing quality.
Ink or Toner Efficiency: Consider the long-term cost of ink or toner. Printers that use less ink or toner per page can save us money.
Connectivity: A printer with various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet, enables us to print from multiple devices seamlessly.
Paper Handling: We require a printer that can handle heavy paper stock without jamming, ensuring smooth feeding of 11×17 sheets.
Color Accuracy: If color prints are necessary, prioritize color accuracy to represent our designs faithfully.
By keeping these features in mind, we can make an informed decision to suit our professional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Architects rely heavily on specialized printing equipment to produce high-quality, large-format designs and documents. We’ve sought to address common questions by identifying top-performing 11×17 printers suited to various architectural needs.
What are the best multifunction 11×17 printers for architects?
We recommend the Brother MFC-J6945DW for its robust functionality in printing, scanning, and copying. It offers high efficiency with low running costs, suitable for frequent architectural needs.
Which 11×17 printer delivers the highest quality for architectural drawings?
The Canon PIXMA Pro-100 stands out for producing sharp, detailed prints using its 8-ink dye system, essential for precise architectural renderings with accurate color gradations.
Are there any 11×17 printers that can handle large advertising banners?
Yes, the Epson SureColor T5170 is designed to accommodate wide media, including large advertising banners. This printer excels with rapid print speeds and precise detail suitable for visual presentations.
What are the top-rated 11×17 color laser printers for professional architectural work?
The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M751n is highly regarded for its color accuracy and consistency, making it a reliable choice for professional work where presentation is key.
Can wide format printers also support standard 11×17 printing for architectural designs?
Absolutely, wide format printers like the Epson WorkForce WF-7720 not only handle larger projects but also deliver high-quality standard 11×17 prints, providing versatility for architects.
Which printers are preferred by architects for producing 24×36 large format prints?
For large 24×36 prints, the HP DesignJet T730 is favored for its precision and ability to handle heavy-duty printing without sacrificing quality on large-scale architectural drawings.
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