3 Best Printers for Artists

As an artist, finding the best printer to bring your creations to life can feel like a daunting task. Whether you want to create fine art prints, posters, or portfolios for art grant applications, the right printer can make all the difference. When I started looking for a printer to meet my needs, I quickly realized that not all printers are created equal. If you're navigating this journey too, let me share what I've learned about choosing the best printers for artists.

What Are the Best Printers for Artists?

When I think about what makes a printer great for artists, three things come to mind: high-quality prints, archival ink capabilities, and versatility with different paper types. Printers designed with these qualities help ensure your art looks professional and lasts for years.

Here are my top picks for the best printers for artists, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional:

1. Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Color Professional Inkjet Printer ($298)

One of the best printers for artists is the Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Color Professional Inkjet Printer
Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Color Professional Inkjet Printer

The Canon Pixma Pro-100 is my absolute go-to for creating professional-quality art prints, and I can’t recommend it enough if you’re serious about producing vibrant, high-quality work.

Whether you’re printing traditional art, illustrations, or digital designs, this printer consistently delivers stunning results. The colors are rich and true to life, thanks to its eight-color dye-based ink system, which provides a wider range of tones and smooth gradients. This feature makes a noticeable difference, especially in detailed pieces or artworks with subtle color transitions.

One of the standout features of the Pixma Pro-100 is its ability to print up to 13” x 19”. This size is perfect for creating large, striking prints that truly showcase your work. Paired with high-quality paper, like Hahnemühle archival paper, your prints will not only look premium but also feel luxurious—an essential factor if you’re selling art prints. The combination of the Pixma Pro-100’s precision and archival-grade paper ensures your work has that professional edge that customers notice and appreciate.

This printer strikes a perfect balance between quality and affordability, making it a favorite among artists who want to elevate their print game without breaking the bank. Whether you're starting out or looking to upgrade, the Canon Pixma Pro-100 is a solid investment in your art business.

2. Epson SureColor P600 Inkjet Printer ($690)

Epson SureColor P600 Inkjet Printer
Epson SureColor P600 Inkjet Printer

The Epson SureColor P600 is a solid choice for artists who want professional-quality prints that last. It uses pigment-based inks, which are fade-resistant and archival, so your prints can hold up for decades without losing their vibrancy. If you’re selling your work or just want to create pieces that will stand the test of time, this is a great option.

What I love about this printer is its ability to handle paper rolls up to 19 inches wide. This means you can create larger prints or experiment with custom sizes, which is perfect if you want to make a big impression with your art or try something a little different.

The P600 also has an eight-color UltraChrome HD ink system, which produces amazing detail and bold, accurate colors. Whether you’re printing a piece with fine shading or something with bright, saturated tones, this printer brings your artwork to life.

If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile printer with high-quality results, the Epson SureColor P600 is definitely worth considering.

3. HP Designjet T120 Inkjet Large Format Printer ($799)

HP Designjet T120 Inkjet Large Format Printer
HP Designjet T120 Inkjet Large Format Printer for artists who want to make bigger prints.

The HP DesignJet T120 is a great option if you’re an artist looking to dip your toes into large-format printing without spending a fortune. It can handle rolls up to 24 inches wide, which is perfect for creating posters, oversized art prints, or other larger projects. For the price, it offers solid performance and reliable results.

That said, the T120 doesn’t have the same level of color detail as some higher-end printers, so it’s best suited for artists who only occasionally need large prints or who don’t need ultra-precise color matching. If you’re just starting out with large-format printing or want a printer that’s budget-friendly for larger pieces, this one is a good fit.

If you find that large-format printing becomes a regular part of your workflow, you might want to think about upgrading to a more advanced model or outsourcing to a professional print service down the line. For getting started, though, the HP DesignJet T120 does the job well.

What Makes a Printer Ideal for Artists?

When choosing a printer as an artist, there are three key things I always keep in mind to make sure it meets the demands of creating professional-quality prints:

1. High-Quality Prints

Your artwork deserves to look its absolute best, and a good printer is essential for achieving that. I always look for features like vibrant color reproduction, sharp details, and smooth gradients, which make prints truly stand out. Printers with multiple ink cartridges, especially those with expanded color systems (like eight or more inks), can produce more accurate and lifelike tones. High-resolution capabilities are also a must for capturing all the fine details in your work.

2. Archival Inks and Papers

If you're selling prints, longevity is a big deal. I always recommend using archival-quality materials to ensure your prints last for decades without fading or yellowing. Pigment-based inks are ideal for this because they’re more fade-resistant than dye-based ones. Pair them with acid-free, museum-grade papers, like those from Hahnemühle, to give your customers something truly premium. These materials not only elevate your art but also give you peace of mind that you’re delivering lasting value.

3. Versatility

As artists, we often experiment with different styles, materials, and sizes, so having a versatile printer is a game-changer. I look for printers that can handle a variety of media, from heavyweight fine art papers to canvas and even glossy photo papers. The ability to print in larger sizes, like 13” x 19” or beyond, is also important for creating impactful statement pieces. A versatile printer gives you the freedom to bring your creative vision to life without limitations.

When you keep these three qualities in mind, you’ll be equipped to choose a printer that not only meets your artistic needs but also supports the growth of your art business.

Should You Buy a Printer or Outsource Prints?

While owning a printer offers convenience and creative control, outsourcing can save time and ensure consistent results. If you’re just starting out, outsourcing might be the way to go until you’re ready to invest in your own equipment.

Check out my guide on how much it costs to ship a painting for tips on handling logistics.

How to Choose the Best Printer for Your Needs

Here’s a simple process to help you decide:

  1. Define Your Goals: Are you making fine art prints, posters, or portfolios? Your goals will influence your choice.
  2. Set a Budget: Printers range from $100 to several thousand dollars. Decide how much you’re willing to invest.
  3. Research Features: Look for key features like archival ink, paper compatibility, and print size.
  4. Read Reviews: Hearing from other artists can give you insights into real-world performance.

Inkjet vs. Laser Printers for Art

For art prints, inkjet printers are the clear winner. They’re capable of producing vibrant, detailed images and work well with archival inks and papers. Laser printers, while great for text-heavy documents, fall short when it comes to capturing the nuances of artwork.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right printer can open up new opportunities, whether you’re selling art prints or preparing a portfolio for art grants. While there are plenty of options out there, the best printer for you depends on your goals, budget, and the type of art you create. If you’re still unsure, feel free to explore my guide on how to make prints at home for more detailed advice.

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