Looking for the best printer for art prints? This article will have you printing your beautiful art in no time!
For anyone invested in creating quality art, finding the best art printer for art prints and designs is an absolute must. For many, digital art is a way to design without any physical copies. But making a physical copy of art can make all the difference between a serious and an amateur artist.
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So if you take your art seriously, buying a good art printer to sell your art prints or even just have a physical copy of your portfolio can be essential to pushing your art career and journey forward.
Finding the best art printer can be a bit challenging if you’re new to it. So to help out with this, we’ve gone ahead and created a list of the best art printers for artists in 2022.
Interested? Check out our list for the best art software and also the best laptops for digital artists.
Top 9 Best Art Printers for Artists in 2022
Finding the best printers for artists can be hard. To make things easier, we’ve gone ahead and listed our top 7 picks for art printers, below
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- Epson EcoTank-7750 — The best printer for art prints overall (Editor’s Choice)
- Canon iP8720 — The best art printer for value
- Epson SureColor P800 Inkjet Printer — The best high-end art printer
- Canon PIXMA Pro 10 — An art printer with over 10 color pigments
- Canon ProGraf 1000 — The best printer for gallery-quality art prints
- Brother HL-L8360CDW — The best laser printer for art prints
- HP ENVY 5055 — The best art printer for beginners
- HP DesignJet Studio — The best art printer for ecosystem professionals
- Epson Expression XP-970 Photo Printer — The best art printer for smartphones
Also see our posts on the best printers for artists, the best black & white printers and the best printers for card stock, the best printers for heat transfers.
Which printer is best for art prints?
The best printer for art prints on our list is the Epson EcoTank-7750 but we’ve gone ahead and listed some other options as well.
What kind of printer is a better fit for art — Laser or Inkjet?
When looking at printers, it’s first important to pick one based on your needs. With art prints, it’s usually color accuracy and clarity that determines your final choice, but along with, primary use, your design needs also play an important role.
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When it comes to picking between a laser or an inkjet printer, it usually comes down to what you value more. With Inkjet printers, color accuracy and sharpness are usually the key takeaways. However, with laser printers, you get more affordable prints, at faster speeds but might have to compromise slightly on color accuracy and quality.
Generally, most art prints or projects require you to use an inkjet printer to best capture the colors and details of your artwork. But if you’re working at a firm or with a large group of people, you might require getting a laser printer to keep things efficient and convenient for your work.
Best Printer for Art Prints Buying Guide
We’ve listed and gone into some of the factors that are most important to consider when picking the best printer for art prints.
Ink and Toner Cartridges
While inkjet printers typically use ink cartridges or refills, laser printers make use of toner cartridges, and the price of replacement of either is something to consider before making your purchase.
When it comes to Inkjet printers, you’ll find that printers using only one cartridge are not really your best choice. Inkjet printers with a single cartridge can end up causing color bleeding as well as clogs to your art prints. For art prints using an inkjet printer, one with at least 4 cartridges or preferably more, will ensure sharpness and outstanding color quality.
On the other hand, with laser printers, it’s important that you keep tabs on how long it typically lasts and opt for one that has a higher capacity, even if it costs more!
Price
When it comes to picking a good printer, basing your decision on your budget and what you’ll be going for is a smart choice. The cost of a good printer can be solely based on how much you plan on using it.
The more affordable printers are more suitable for amateurs or artists that are printing their own personal collection. However, if you’re printing art prints commercially or to sell and widen your brand, it would be smart to print with high ink capacity.
Even though some of the higher ink/toner capacity printers may seem expensive up front, if it’s something you’re serious about, investing in it can save you a huge amount of money in the long run.
Paper Size
For art prints, there are three main sizes: A3, A4, and A5. So if you feel like you want to keep things versatile we suggest you look for a printer that can handle 13 x 19-inch proofs (also known as A3+ Super B). Picking a printer that can’t handle A3 sizes can be a nuisance unless you’re fairly confident about what you’re looking for.
It’s also important that your printer be able to handle different kinds of paper. Regardless of whether you opt for a laser or an inkjet printer, it would be wise to make sure your printer can handle light, heavy, and even double-sided sheets. If you’re looking to print on shirts or garments, it would be a smart move to look into Direct to Garment (DTG) printers.
Dye-Based or Pigment-Based Inks for Inkjets
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When it comes to picking between a dye-based or pigment-based ink, we would strongly recommend you opt for the dye-based option. Pigment-based inks are likely to fade when exposed to sunlight over time, while on the other hand, dye-based inks are longer-lasting, more vibrant, and quite affordable.
So when looking into viable options, it’s important that you double-check what ink it utilizes as printers are built to only handle one or the other option.
Now we have an idea of the fundamentals, you can go ahead and pick a printer from our list.
9 Best Printers for Art Prints 2022
Below we feature the best art printers, whatever your budget.
1. Epson EcoTank-7750 (Editor’s Choice)
The best printer for art prints overall
Category: Color Inkjet Printer | Print speed: 13 ppm for black and 10 ppm for color | Paper sizes: up to A3| Paper capacity: 100 pages or 20 photo sheets | Weight: 11.02 kg
When choosing the best printer for art prints or your work, picking from all the options out there can make things confusing. However, when it comes to it, the Epson EcoTank-7750 is definitely our recommended option for the best-looking art prints.
Even though it may seem slightly pricey to buy, most serious artists and illustrators will find it one of the best affordable options in the long run. This inkjet printer makes use of 5 color inks capable of printing up to 9,000 pages in color and 12,000 pages in black and white.
With versatile paper handling and a Maximum Print Resolution of 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi, this is the best printer for art prints when it comes to quality and price overall.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Affordable in the long-term | ➖ Slightly expensive upfront |
| ➕ Great print quality | ➖ Slower than some printers |
| ➕ Easily accessible | ➖ Could be sturdier |
| ➕ High ink capacity | ➖ The display is a bit small |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Epson strongly recommends the use of Genuine Epson inks for a quality printing experience. Non-Epson inks and inks not formulated for your specific printer may cause damage that is not covered by the...
- Cartridge-free printing — comes with up to 2 years of ink in the box (1).
- Includes enough ink to print documents up to 14,000 pages black/9,000 color (3) — equivalent to about 30 ink cartridge sets (2).
- Save up to 80 percent on ink with replacement bottles (4) — plus easy-to-fill, supersized ink tanks.
- 5-color inks — for printing high-quality documents and photos up to 11" x 17". Maximum Print Resolution: 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi
2. Canon iP8720
The best value printer for artists
Category: color inkjet printer | Print speed: 14.5 ppm (mono) | Paper sizes: up to Super A3/B | Paper capacity: 150 | Weight: 8.43 kg
When it comes to high-quality and affordable art printers, the Canon IP870 is likely the best printer around. Even though there are quite a few other options available, this one is undoubtedly the one with most value for money.
The Canon iP8720 comes with a 6 color ink system that includes grey ink, which means even black and white artwork and illustrations can turn out quite well.
This inkjet printer provides relatively quick, professional-quality prints while being both compact and light on your pocket. So if you’re looking for print quality at an affordable price, we’d strongly recommend the Canon iP8720. This is also our pick for the best printer for digital art.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Good price | ➖ No direct USB access from devices |
| ➕ Can print up to 13’’ by 19’’ images | ➖ A bit bulky |
| ➕ Good image quality | ➖ Only up to 150-sheet capacity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Don't get stuck in an 8 inches x 10 inches world; Print your favorite photos up to 13 inches x 19 inches
- With a 6 color ink system including gray ink and 9600 x 2400 maximum color dots per inch, the results are incredible quality and amazing detail in your black & white and color photos. Noise level:...
- Print wireless from any Wi-Fi enabled computer around the house; Ink droplet size: 1, 2 and 5
- Note: Kindly refer to the user manual provided as a PDF manual in the product description section
- Ink compatibility : PGI 250 Pigment Black XL, CLI 251 Cyan XL, CLI 251 Magenta XL, CLI 251 Yellow XL, CLI 251 Gray XL, CLI 251 Black XL , PGI 250 Pigment Black, CLI 251 Cyan, CLI 251 Magenta, CLI 251...
3. Epson SureColor P800 Inkjet Printer
The best printer for high-end art prints
Category: Color inkjet printer | Print speed: 3ppm | Paper sizes: various | Paper capacity: n/a | Weight: 19.5 kg
When it comes to high-end printers for art the Epson SureColor P800 is one of the best money can buy. Even though it might seem pricey for some, this impressive machine makes use of over 8 types of ink, meaning your art prints and designs will look more vibrant, accurate, and crisper than most other alternatives.
Even though this printer is not our recommendation for newbies, seasoned artists and designers will be surprised to find that the printer (though slightly large) can offer the best print quality right now.
With USB, wireless, and ethernet connectivity, the Epson Surecolor is accessible and convenient to use. What’s more, its high capacity UltraChrome HD ink cartridges allow you to even print professional-level black and white prints.
So if you’re looking for a printer for the most professional-quality prints, the Epson Surecolor P800 would be a good idea.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Responsive touchscreen | ➖ Ink can be wasted when switching modes |
| ➕ Ink can be easily replaced | ➖ Running costs can be a bit high |
| ➕ Great color saturation | ➖ Cartridges have a small capacity |
| ➕ Professional print quality |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Unit Dimensions: 26.93"W x 14.80"D x 9.85"H | Weight: 43 lbs
- Maximum Printable Area: Maximum paper width: 17" | Maximum cut-sheet size: 17" x 22" | Minimum cut-sheet size: 3.5" x 5" | Maximum printable area: 17" x 129"
- Unmatched print quality — Epson UltraChrome HD Inks deliver vivid color, superior black density and significantly improved print longevity.
- Versatile media handling up to 17" wide - create borderless prints on photo papers, fine art papers and posterboard up to 17" wide; new optional roll feeder lets you print from roll-based media.
- Superior black-and-white prints - three-level black ink technology and advanced black-and-white photo mode for professional-level neutral or toned black-and-white prints.
4. Canon ProGraf 1000
The best for gallery-quality art prints
Category: Color inkjet printer | Print speed: n/a | Paper sizes: various | Paper capacity: n/a | Weight: 70.5 lbs
When it comes to amazing color detail, the Canon ProGraf 1000 is one of the better printers out there. This Inkjet printer can offer artists vibrant art prints with good image quality.
Even though it’s on the pricey end, this printer makes use of over 12 ink chips and Anti-Clogging technology, which ensures the ink is used efficiently and that color accuracy remains a priority.
This easy-to-use printer can switch between matte and photo black effortlessly and makes sure prints are never dull. Despite being a bit heavy and bulky, this printer offers artists and designers the best gallery-quality art prints.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Easy to use | ➖ Takes up space |
| ➕ Great color range | ➖ Slightly pricey |
| ➕ Has anti-clogging technology | |
| ➕ Good connectivity options |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Anti-Clogging Technology: The Fine print head institutes a tubular ink delivery system, this generates faster print speeds and reduces the possibility of clogging.
- Air Feeding System: The Canon Air Feeding System prevents each page from skewing for accurate ink placement, regardless of paper type. A series of openings located on top of the platen vacuum-grip the...
- Lucia Pro Ink System: The Lucia Pro 11-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system satisfies the demands of the most critical photographer or graphic artist. Denser droplet placement provides a broader...
- Wide Color Gamut: This 11-color and Chroma Optimizer ink system helps to achieve an improvement in color-reproduction, image clarity, and enhanced darker areas. It faithfully reproduces colors and...
- Black Density and Dark Shadow Areas: Deep blacks, which make the image crisp, and precise gradation can be attained across all media types. 17" x 22" Bordered Photo
5. Canon PIXMA Pro 10
A high-end fine art printer with over 10 color pigments
Category: Color inkjet printer | Print speed: 3ppm | Paper sizes: various | Paper capacity: n/a | Weight: 43.9 lbs
If you’re looking for a slightly cheaper alternative to the Canon ProGraf-1000, the Canon Pixma Pro 10 is the answer for you! Though older than most of the models on this list, the Pixma Pro 10 stands the test of time quite well.
This high-quality printer comes with 10 color pigment ink cartridges and has optimum ink generation systems to ensure you get the best use of color possible. Also, this printer does a great job with black and white prints and output in various sizes.
The Pixma Pro 10 has WiFi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity options. A HUGE plus with this printer is that the printer heads can be removed and cleaned to prevent ink clogs, which is not a feature with most printers. So if you’re looking for a high-image-quality printer for an art gallery or selling art prints, this one is a great choice. It gets our top pick for the best fine art printer.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great image quality | ➖ Does not print from paper rolls |
| ➕ Removable printheads | ➖ Has several newer models to compete with |
| ➕ Works well with text | |
| ➕ Good color accuracy |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- The PIXMA PRO-10 shares technology with the rest of the PIXMA PRO line utilizing the Optimum Image Generating System to ensure what you envision is exactly what you get
- The combination of Pigment based inks and Chroma Optimizer adds uniform glossiness, a wide color gamut and dense blacks for the satisfaction of the professional user
- The Optimum Image Generating System reproduces colors as you intend them by logically selecting the optimum ink combination and placement
- Compatible with Individual PGI-72 Ink Tanks (Matte Black, Photo Black, Gray, Cyan, Photo Cyan, Magenta, Photo Magenta, Yellow, Red, Chroma Optimizer). Save Even More On Value Packs. Only Replace The...
- Three dedicated monochrome inks for amazing black & white prints
6. Brother HL-L8360CDW
The best laser printer for art prints
Category: color laser printer | Print speed: 33 ppm | Paper sizes: up to A4 | Paper capacity: 250 | Weight: 21.81 kg
When it comes to the best laser printer for artwork, the Brother HL-L8360CDW is most likely your best option. Though typically people opt to use inkjet printers for art prints and designs, the Brother HL-L8360CDW is definitely one of the better options for high printing speed and quantity.
One major reason people pick laser printers over inkjets is, laser printers can print a lot quicker and be cheaper to work with. This Brother HL-L8360CDW is a great printer for smaller-sized firms, as it can manage a large workload and maintain print quality quite well. Any office or small firm looking for a high-quality, affordable printing option would be wise to consider this laser printer.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great printing speed | ➖ Slightly pricey |
| ➕ Good print quality | ➖ Bulky |
| ➕ Low cost to operate | ➖ Photo print quality is average |
| ➕ Good printing yield |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- HIGH-QUALITY COLOR PRINTING: The Brother HLL8360CDW can print professional color documents at speeds of up to 33 ppm.
- EASY CONNECTIVITY: Connect via wireless or Gigabit Ethernet network interfaces or wireless print from your mobile device(1).
- AUTOMATIC DUPLEX PRINTING: The Brother Color Laser Printer features an automatic 2-sided printing feature that can help save money and time.
- DASH REPLENISHMENT ENABLED: Upon activation, Dash Replenishment measures the toner level and orders more from when it’s low. Standard Memory (MB): 512
- BROTHER GENUINE TONERS: TN431: TN431BK, TN431C, TN431Y, TN431M, TN433: TN433BK, TN433C, TN433Y, TN433M, TN436: TN436, TN436BK, TN436C, TN436Y, TN436M
7. HP ENVY 5055
The best art printer for beginners
Category: 3-in-1 colour inkjet printer | Print speed: 15ppm | Paper sizes:up to A4 | Paper capacity: 100 | Weight: 5.4 kg
For art students, newbies, and even people with a limited budget, the HP Envy 5055 is most likely the best option for you to pick. This printer is perfect for a home office or if you’re just getting started with art prints.
However, this printer can be an expensive option in the long run. If you plan on printing items regularly, refilling the ink for this printer can end up costing you more than the printer itself! But not to worry, if you take part in HP’s Instant Ink subscription program, this can be an affordable option (you can read more about that here).
This printer comes with a scanner as well, which can be used for any documents that require scanning. The HP Envy 5055 printer does a good job with prints, and even though not as outstanding as the more expensive Epson models, it can be a perfect choice for people just starting out.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great price | ➖ No ethernet or SD card support |
| ➕ Good print quality | ➖ The touch screen can be unresponsive |
| ➕ Durable and compact build | ➖ Expensive to use without HP ink subscription |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Replaces the HP ENVY 4520, HP ENVY 5055 comes with Bluetooth, Smart, improved Wi-Fi connectivity, faster print speeds and more
- Step up and create projects at home – Print, scan, and copy borderless, high-quality photos and documents with crisp, sharp text using this versatile all-in-1 printer
- Ink delivered to your home: Get your first 2 months free when you enroll in HP Instant Ink (optional) during printer set up; plans starting at 0.99 dollar per month after the trial period, shipping...
- Our most powerful printing app ever: the HP Smart app allows you to easily set up your wireless printer, scan documents with your camera, and print from social media or the cloud, such as iCloud,...
- Stay connected, no matter what: Whether connecting to your network or your mobile device, reliable Dual Band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Smart deliver a stable connection for steady performance
8. HP DesignJet Studio
The best art printer for ecosystem professionals
Category: Inkjet | Print speed: As fast as 25 seconds per A1/D plot | Paper size: A1 | Paper capacity: 150 pages | Weight: 9.48 pounds
The HP DesignJet Studio is ideal for AEC ecosystem professionals. It mainly focuses on creativity, design and is sensitive to aesthetics. This printer for artwork includes software such as HP click, HP smart app, HP print preview for windows, HP Easy Start, HP DesignJet Utility for Windows, and HP Support Assistant. You can connect this printer to Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T), Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11.
The DesignJet Studio is also the First net carbon neutral HP DesignJet plotter. With this art printer you can manage your large format printing and printer virtually anywhere and anytime with the HP smart app. It also comes along with a printer stand.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Ideal for line based work | ➖ Only CMYK dye-based inks |
| ➕ Connect via wifi, ethernet, USB | |
| ➕ Up to 24-inch wide media rolls |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Ideal for: AEC ecosystem professionals (architects, engineers, construction, subcontractors) focused on creativity, design and sensitive to aesthetics.
- Media Sizes: Up to 24-inch wide media rolls (printer includes roll cover), and up to 24 by 74.7-inch sheets.
- Media Handling: Sheet feed, roll feed, automatic sheet/roll switch, media bin, automatic horizontal cutter.
- First net carbon neutral HP DesignJet plotter. Save time with the world's easiest job submission tool - HP Click. Print multiple files in as little as one click. Manage your large format printing and...
- Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T), Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11.
9. Epson Expression XP-970 Photo Printer
The best art printer for smartphones
Category: Inkjet | Print speed: (black) 8.5 ISO ppm, Color: 8.0 ISO ppm| Paper size: 11 X 17 inches | Paper capacity: 150 pages | Weight: 22.9 pounds
If you are looking for a printer that is simple yet effective for your art print, you can choose to purchase the Epson Expression XP-970 photo printer. This printer is compatible with PC, laptops and smartphones.
The Epson Expression XP-970 has a color output and a small-in-one printer. This printer gives wide format photos and produces stunning, borderless photos up to 11X17 inches.
With this Epson printer, you can print directly into specialty papers, CDs, and DVDs for more creative flexibility.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Easily print high quality photos | ➖ No third party cartridges or ink |
| ➕ Compact and wireless | |
| ➕ print from smartphones and tablets |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Epson printing system is specifically designed to be used with Epson Genuine Cartridges. Use of non-genuine ink could cause damage not covered under the printer’s ltd. wnty.
- Max Printspeed Black White: 8.5
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best art printer for artists?
The Epson 7750 is the best art printer overall in terms of running costs and print quality. For a more affordable option, we’d suggest the Canon iP8720 printer.
What is the best printer for art prints at an affordable price?
When it comes to printers for art prints, the Canon iP8720 printer is your best option at an affordable price. That said, if you’re working with a limited budget, the HP Envy 5055 is also a good alternative.
What is the best laser printer for art prints and artists?
When it comes to the best laser printers for art prints and artists, we would recommend you look at the Brother HL-l8360CDW printer.
Is laser or inkjet better for art prints?
Inkjet printers are better than laser printers when it comes to the best print quality for art prints. Laser printers on the other hand are excellent for print speed and running costs.
What is Dots Per Inch?
Dots per inch is a way that artists and designers measure the resolution of a printer. Dots Per Inch, or DPI, is a great way to find the best print resolution.
Which printer has the best print speed?
Brother HL-l8360CDW is the best printer when it comes to print speed and handling a large workload.
What is the difference between toner and cartridges?
Toner is used for laser printers while cartridges are used for ink-based printers. When it comes to the best printer for art prints, we'd recommend using a dye-based printer or ink cartridge.
What is the best high-end printer for art prints?
The Epson SureColor P800 Inkjet Printer and Canon PIXMA Pro 10 are two of the best high-end printers for art prints.
What is a great compact printer for art prints?
The Canon IP8720, is a great compact option for vivid colored art prints.
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Best Printers for Art Prints in 2022
When it comes down to it, making sure you get color-accurate and sharp art prints can be challenging for artists and illustrators alike. Regardless of what type of art style you have for your audience, quality speaks for itself, and making sure your prints look good should be a priority for any up-and-coming artist.
You should now have a fairly good idea of what to look for when it comes to choosing the best printer for art prints for you, your audience, and your workload. And now you are on your way to making the right choice!