We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Plotter Printers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer, Includes 2-Year Onsite Warranty Support (5HB10T) - New Model

The HP DesignJet T650 is a solid choice for architects, engineers, and professionals who need precise, large-format prints like technical drawings, posters, and maps. It supports wide media up to 36 inches and can handle both rolls and sheets automatically, which saves time and effort during multi-size projects. The print resolution is sharp at 2400 x 1200 dpi, delivering crisp lines and clear text, essential for detailed CAD work. Print speed is quite reasonable, with about 25 seconds per A1-sized page, making it efficient for busy offices.

It uses HP’s original pigment and dye-based inks, which provide durable and vibrant colors, but to maintain print quality and longevity, OEM cartridges are recommended. Connectivity options are versatile, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, and the HP Smart app allows printing from mobile devices easily. The included HP Click software simplifies file handling by supporting common formats and automating print settings, reducing waste and errors.

On the maintenance side, the printer offers cost-effective upkeep with significantly less ink used for maintenance tasks compared to competitors, plus a reassuring 2-year onsite warranty with quick support. However, it is a fairly heavy unit at over 120 pounds, so it requires dedicated space and setup. Print speed, while decent, may not satisfy users who need ultra-fast high-volume production. Also, it’s print-only, with no scanning or copying features. This printer fits well for users who prioritize high-quality, large-format technical prints with good media versatility and reliable support, but it may be less ideal if you need multifunction features or the fastest throughput.

#2

HP DesignJet T630 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Printer, with Auto Sheet Feeder, Media Bin & Stand (5HB11D) - New Model

Rating
9.1
Print Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
20 reviews

Print Resolution
Delivers crisp and accurate prints for both large 24” x 36” blueprints and smaller 13” x 19” formats with excellent detail.
Software Compatibility
Easy to set up and integrate into professional workflows without hassle.

The HP DesignJet T630 is a large format plotter printer designed mainly for professionals like architects, engineers, and construction specialists who need accurate, high-quality prints of technical drawings, maps, and posters. It supports media up to 36 inches wide on rolls and up to 13x19 inch sheets with its automatic sheet feeder, giving flexibility for different project sizes. The printer achieves a sharp print resolution of 2400 x 1200 dpi, which ensures crisp lines and clear text, important for detailed technical work.

In terms of speed, it prints both color and monochrome at about 2 pages per minute, which is moderate for large format printers — suitable for standard office or studio use but not for very high-volume demands. Media handling is a strong point, offering roll and sheet feeding, auto-switching between media types, a media bin, and an automatic cutter, simplifying workflow and reducing manual effort. Ink-wise, it uses both pigment and dye-based inks through HP’s genuine cartridges, which helps deliver vivid colors with durability, though sticking to HP cartridges is recommended for best results and printer longevity.

Connectivity options are versatile with Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi, allowing easy integration into various office setups. The inclusion of HP Click software streamlines printing by supporting multiple file formats and providing useful tools like error checking and auto-nesting, which saves time and reduces waste. The print speed is relatively slow if rapid output is needed. It offers only basic connectivity ports (no USB 3.0 or advanced wireless standards), and while maintenance should be straightforward, the warranty is limited to one year, which may be short given the investment. Also, it weighs 120 pounds and requires a dedicated space with a stand, which might not suit all offices. This model fits professionals needing precise and reliable large-format printing with good media handling and solid software support, prioritizing print quality and versatility over speed or advanced connectivity features.

Rating
9.1
Print Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
20 reviews

Print Resolution
Delivers crisp and accurate prints for both large 24” x 36” blueprints and smaller 13” x 19” formats with excellent detail.
Software Compatibility
Easy to set up and integrate into professional workflows without hassle.
#3

Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wireless Printer, White

Rating
8.8
Print Resolution
Print Speed
Media Handling

Most important from
255 reviews

Print Resolution
Prints are detailed and frame-worthy, even with the limited color spectrum, making it suitable for posters and photos.
Print Speed
The Epson T5170 prints quickly and cleanly, with reliable print drivers for various operating systems.
Media Handling
Finding the right paper rolls can be tricky; ensure you have 2" core paper to avoid compatibility issues.
Ink Types
High capacity ink cartridges are essential as the included ones deplete quickly, and keeping spare ink on hand is advised.
Connectivity Options
The wireless connectivity is dependable, and firmware upgrades are automatically applied.
Software Compatibility
Epson's support has been commendable, and the printers work seamlessly with MacOS, even for large-format prints.
Maintenance and Support
The printer maintains performance even after extended periods of downtime without requiring maintenance cycles.

The Epson SureColor T5170 36” Wireless Printer stands out in the plotter-printer category with several notable strengths. It achieves high print resolution up to 2400 x 1200 dpi, ensuring clear and detailed prints, which is crucial for technical drawings and large-format prints. The fast print speed, delivering A1/D-size prints in just 31 seconds, makes it efficient for high-demand environments. Its design is compact, with a sleek and minimal footprint, making it a good fit for smaller office spaces. Additionally, the large 4.3” LCD color touchscreen simplifies operation, making it user-friendly even for those less tech-savvy.

The integrated wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi Direct, allows for easy printing from a variety of devices without needing a router, which adds to its convenience. High-capacity ink cartridges mean less frequent replacements, which is a cost and time saver. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. It is relatively heavy at 101 pounds, which may affect portability and setup. The print speed is decent but only at 6 ppm for both monochrome and color prints.

While it includes automatic duplex printing and a standard 1-year warranty, users might find the input sheet capacity of 50 somewhat limiting if they have large print volumes. Also, its lack of dual-sided printing may be a downside for those needing this feature. While it offers good software compatibility, users need to ensure their systems are supported to avoid any connectivity issues. The Epson SureColor T5170 offers a well-rounded package suitable for professionals needing high-quality, large-format printing, but it's essential to weigh its portability and volume limitations based on your specific needs.

Rating
8.8
Print Resolution
Print Speed
Media Handling

Most important from
255 reviews

Print Resolution
Prints are detailed and frame-worthy, even with the limited color spectrum, making it suitable for posters and photos.
Print Speed
The Epson T5170 prints quickly and cleanly, with reliable print drivers for various operating systems.
Media Handling
Finding the right paper rolls can be tricky; ensure you have 2" core paper to avoid compatibility issues.
Ink Types
High capacity ink cartridges are essential as the included ones deplete quickly, and keeping spare ink on hand is advised.
Connectivity Options
The wireless connectivity is dependable, and firmware upgrades are automatically applied.
Software Compatibility
Epson's support has been commendable, and the printers work seamlessly with MacOS, even for large-format prints.
Maintenance and Support
The printer maintains performance even after extended periods of downtime without requiring maintenance cycles.

Buying Guide for the Best Plotter Printers

Choosing the right plotter printer can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Plotter printers are essential for producing large-scale graphics, architectural plans, engineering drawings, and other detailed documents. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the printer's performance and suitability for your specific requirements.
Print ResolutionPrint resolution refers to the level of detail and clarity a plotter printer can produce, measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI values mean finer detail and sharper images. For technical drawings and blueprints, a resolution of 600 DPI may suffice, while high-quality graphics and posters may require 1200 DPI or more. Choose a resolution based on the level of detail needed in your prints.
Print SpeedPrint speed indicates how quickly a plotter printer can produce prints, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) or square feet per hour. Faster print speeds are beneficial for high-volume printing environments. If you need to produce large quantities of prints quickly, look for a plotter with higher print speeds. For occasional or lower volume printing, a slower speed may be acceptable.
Media HandlingMedia handling refers to the types and sizes of paper and other materials a plotter printer can accommodate. This includes the maximum width of the media, the types of paper (e.g., glossy, matte, vinyl), and the ability to handle rolls or sheets. Consider the largest size you will need to print and the types of media you plan to use. Ensure the plotter can handle your specific requirements.
Ink TypesPlotter printers use different types of ink, such as dye-based, pigment-based, or UV-curable inks. Dye-based inks are vibrant and suitable for indoor use, while pigment-based inks are more durable and resistant to fading, making them ideal for outdoor applications. UV-curable inks offer high durability and are suitable for a wide range of materials. Choose the ink type based on the durability and appearance you need for your prints.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options determine how you can connect to and control the plotter printer. Common options include USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Some plotters also offer cloud printing capabilities. If you need to share the printer among multiple users or print from various devices, look for models with versatile connectivity options. Ensure the connectivity options align with your workflow and network setup.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility refers to the plotter printer's ability to work with various design and CAD software. Ensure the plotter supports the software you use, such as AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, or other design programs. Compatibility with your preferred software ensures a smooth workflow and reduces the risk of compatibility issues.
Maintenance and SupportMaintenance and support involve the ease of maintaining the plotter printer and the availability of customer support. Consider the frequency of required maintenance tasks, the availability of replacement parts, and the quality of customer support. A plotter that is easy to maintain and comes with reliable support can save you time and reduce downtime.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now