After extensive testing and comparisons spanning decades, the field of photo printers essentially boils down to a two-horse race: Canon and Epson. While other brands exist, these two giants stand out as the premier choices for desktop printers delivering exceptional photo quality. If you’re looking to create prints worthy of framing, mounting, or displaying, focusing on Canon and Epson is key.
Several crucial factors come into play when selecting the ideal photo printer. The size of prints you desire and the type of ink technology are paramount. This guide begins with a focus on the best standard Letter-size (A4) photo printers, then progresses to larger-format 13-inch (A3+) printers, and culminates with professional-grade 17-inch (A2) options. Remember, for wall-worthy photo displays, larger prints generally make a greater impact.
Cost is another significant consideration. It’s not just the initial printer price; ink replacements can be surprisingly expensive. However, for those committed to producing numerous photo prints, the long-term value often outweighs the cost, especially when compared to using external photo printing services. Personally, I find the immediacy and complete control offered by printing at home invaluable. Within minutes, I can transform digital images into tangible prints, maintaining full command over the entire process.
Minimizing ink waste is a priority for me, so all printers featured here utilize individually replaceable ink cartridges. This ensures you only replace cartridges that are actually depleted. Alternatively, Canon MegaTank and Epson EcoTank printers, a newer generation, employ bottled ink rather than cartridges. This system can be more efficient, generate less waste, and prove considerably more economical over the printer’s lifespan. However, it’s worth noting that refillable tank models are still less prevalent in the realm of large-format photo printers.
Matthew Richards is a seasoned photographer and journalist with years of experience in rigorously testing and reviewing a wide array of photographic equipment. As Digital Camera World’s lead printer reviewer, he has personally evaluated every printer featured in this guide. His expertise extends beyond printers to encompass cameras, bags, lighting, tripods, and virtually anything related to the world of imaging.
The Top Photo Printers at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the best photo printers covered in this guide. Keep scrolling for detailed reviews of each model.
[
Canon PIXMA G620](Best for Letter (A4) photos)
1. Canon Pixma G620: The top choice for standard Letter/A4 photo printing, offering exceptional color fidelity and cost-effective bottled ink.
[
Epson EcoTank ET-8500](Best multi-purpose Letter (A4))
2. Epson EcoTank ET-8500: A versatile all-in-one for both document and photo printing at Letter/A4 size, balancing quality with long-term economy.
[
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300](Best for 13-inch (A3+) photos)
3. Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300: The undisputed champion for 13-inch (A3+) photo prints, delivering stunning image quality on various paper types.
[
Canon PIXMA PRO-200](Best 13-inch (A3+) dye-based)
4. Canon Pixma Pro-200: The ultimate 13-inch (A3+) dye-based printer, producing exceptionally smooth and vibrant glossy and luster photo prints.
[
Epson SureColor SC-P700](Best 13-inch (A3+) for panoramas)
5. Epson SureColor SC-P700: Ideal for panoramic prints at 13-inch (A3+) size, this pigment-based printer excels on matte and fine-art media and includes a roll feeder.
[
Epson EcoTank ET-8550](Best refillable 13-inch (A3+))
6. Epson EcoTank ET-8550: A refillable ink tank system in a 13-inch (A3+) format, offering versatility and cost savings for both photos and documents.
[
Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100 printer, with a black-and-white print in its tray, against a white background](Best 17-inch (A2) Canon)
7. Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100: Canon’s flagship 17-inch (A2) printer, setting the standard for super-sized, gallery-quality prints with unparalleled monochrome performance.
[
Epson SureColor SC-P900](Best 17-inch (A2) Epson)
8. Epson SureColor SC-P900: Epson’s top 17-inch (A2) offering, delivering professional pigment-based printing in a surprisingly compact footprint.
In-Depth Reviews: The Best Photo Printers
At Digital Camera World, our reviews are built on rigorous testing and real-world use. We dedicate countless hours to comparing products, ensuring you get the most informed recommendations. Learn more about our testing process.
Best Photo Printer for Letter (A4) Photos
Canon Pixma G620 / Canon Pixma G650
1. Canon Pixma G620
The Unrivaled Champion for Photo Quality in Standard Size
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Dye-based
- Ink System: 6 ink tanks
- Ink Capacity: 60ml bottles
- Max Print/Scan Resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
- Max Photo Print Speed: 47 seconds (4×6 inch)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 445 x 340 x 167mm
- Weight: 6.6kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional Print Quality: Produces stunning, vibrant photos with a wide color gamut.
- Low Running Costs: MegaTank system with bottled ink dramatically reduces ink expenses.
- Affordable Initial Price: Remarkably inexpensive for a bottled ink photo printer.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Document Printing Compromise: Less optimized for everyday document printing compared to photo output.
- Basic Interface: Lacks a touchscreen, relying on a more traditional button interface.
- Slower for Small Prints: Print speed for postcard-sized photos could be faster.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users prioritizing premium photo quality in Letter-size prints.
✅ Those who primarily print photos and don’t require smudge-resistant mono text on plain paper.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users needing a printer equally proficient at high-volume document printing.
❌ Those desiring a modern touchscreen interface for ease of use.
What I appreciate most about the Canon Pixma G620 (also known as G650 in Europe and G660 in Australia) is its MegaTank system. Like other Canon MegaTank printers, it’s a cartridge-free design with high-capacity ink tanks replenished by readily available 60ml ink bottles. From a cost-saving perspective, this equates to roughly one-eighth the ink cost of typical cartridge-based printers. Furthermore, the printer itself is surprisingly affordable compared to many other bottle-fed models.
The G620 boasts a photo-centric six-dye-based ink set, including CMYK plus dedicated red and grey inks. This configuration aims for a broad color spectrum and enhanced monochrome photo reproduction. The user-friendly, keyed ink bottles ensure straightforward, mess-free refills, preventing accidental color mixing.
Paper handling is simplified with a rear upright input tray, facilitating easy switching between different paper types and sizes. While lacking a color touchscreen, the small mono LCD and button interface are intuitive. The built-in scanner simplifies color and monochrome photocopying. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring USB and Wi-Fi, including Pixma Cloud Link, Apple AirPrint, Mopria for Android, and Wireless Direct.
A single set of ink bottles is capable of producing approximately 3,800 6×4-inch photos, or around 3,700 mono documents, or 8,000 color documents. Although it lacks a dedicated pigment black ink, mono text remains reasonably sharp. Print speeds are moderate, taking around 47 seconds for a 4×6-inch glossy photo. However, a borderless A4 photo print is completed in just a couple of minutes in standard quality mode. Color accuracy is remarkably impressive, tonal range is excellent, and it handles black & white photo printing admirably. In the long term, the Canon Pixma G620 represents exceptional value for a high-performance photo printer.
Read my comprehensive review of the Canon Pixma G620 / G650 / G660
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Impressive tonal range and accurate color reproduction, ideal for A4 photos. | ★★★★½ |
| Running Costs | Approximately one-eighth the cost of most cartridge-based printers. | ★★★★★ |
| Overall Value | Excellent initial price, low running costs, and high print quality for A4. | ★★★★★ |
Best Multi-Purpose Letter (A4) Photo Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-8500
2. Epson EcoTank ET-8500
The Versatile All-Rounder for Home and Home Office
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Dye-based + Pigment Black
- Ink System: 6 ink tanks
- Ink Capacity: 70ml bottles
- Max Print/Scan Resolution: 5760 x 4800 dpi
- Max Photo Print Speed: 25 seconds (4×6 inch)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, SD card slot
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 403 x 369 x 162mm
- Weight: 8.4kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Dual Functionality: Equally adept at both document and high-quality photo printing.
- Fast Small Photo Prints: Quick output for postcard-sized photos.
- User-Friendly Touchscreen: Features an intuitive color touchscreen interface.
Reasons to Avoid:
- High Initial Investment: Relatively expensive, even for an EcoTank printer.
- Heavier Than Average: Quite weighty for a Letter (A4) sized printer.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users needing a single printer for both excellent photos and everyday documents.
✅ Those who value a multi-function printer with a modern, intuitive touchscreen.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users deterred by a higher upfront purchase price, despite long-term cost savings.
❌ Those who only occasionally print photos and primarily need a document printer.
I see the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 as a photo printer with a strong focus on business versatility. For most households, the desire is to avoid having separate printers for photos and documents. The ET-8500 adeptly handles both. The EcoTank system, with its bottled ink refills, ensures low running costs, a significant advantage. However, the initial purchase price is higher, requiring a longer period to recoup the investment through reduced ink expenses.
Similar to the larger Epson EcoTank ET-8550, this Letter (A4) printer utilizes a hybrid ink system: pigment-based black ink for crisp document text and dye-based cyan, magenta, yellow, black, and grey inks for photo printing. This combination delivers smudge-resistant black text on plain paper alongside a wide tonal range and color space for both color and monochrome photos.
I’m impressed by its speed for 4×6-inch borderless color photos, completing them in just 25 seconds – ideal for producing large sets of prints quickly. Document printing is also streamlined with automatic duplexing and easy copying or scanning via the integrated scanner, SD card slot, and USB memory stick port. Connectivity is robust with USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. It even supports direct printing onto printable CDs and DVDs. A user-friendly 4.3-inch color touchscreen manages all these features seamlessly.
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Good quality for both photos and documents, though larger prints are slower. | ★★★★ |
| Running Costs | Low running costs, especially beneficial for users printing both document and photos. | ★★★★ |
| Overall Value | A great all-in-one printer, though the upfront cost is higher compared to others. | ★★★★ |
Best Photo Printer for 13-inch (A3+) Photos
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
3. Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300
The Undisputed King of Large-Format Desktop Photo Printing
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Pigment-based
- Ink System: 10 individual cartridges
- Ink Capacity: 14ml cartridges
- Max Print Resolution: 4800 dpi (no scanner)
- Max Photo Print Speed: 4 minutes 15 seconds (A3)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 639 x 379 x 200mm
- Weight: 14.4kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Unmatched Photo Quality: Produces breathtakingly detailed and accurate photos.
- Professional Build Quality: Robust and reliable construction for demanding use.
- Wide Media Support: Handles glossy, matte, and fine-art papers with equal excellence.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Glossy Print Limitation: While good, glossy prints aren’t its absolute strongest point.
- Slower Print Speed: Pigment-based printing is generally slower than dye-based.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users needing versatility across glossy, matte, and fine-art media types.
✅ Those demanding exceptional black & white and color photo print quality.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users prioritizing speed and preferring faster dye-based printers.
❌ Those primarily printing on glossy and semi-gloss photo papers.
What I love about the pigment-based Pro-300 is its remarkable versatility. It consistently delivers outstanding results across various media, including glossy, matte, and fine-art papers. Like its predecessor, the Pixma Pro-10, and the larger A2 format ImagePrograf Pro-1100, it incorporates a Chroma Optimizer cartridge. This technology smooths the surface of glossy photo paper, minimizing differences in reflectivity across colors and tones.
The ink system is impressively comprehensive, featuring ten individual cartridges from Canon’s advanced Lucia Pro line. This system provides a wide color gamut for rich, vibrant colors and exceptional fidelity in monochrome photo printing. The 14ml cartridge capacity is sufficient for approximately 30 to 60 A3+ prints, though ink consumption varies based on image color density.
Media handling is excellent. It includes a rear upright paper feeder and a horizontal manual feeder, the latter being ideal for fine art and thicker media. The manual feeder also supports oversized prints for panoramas and banners up to nearly a meter in length. A 3-inch color LCD screen enhances usability, although it’s not a touchscreen. Unlike previous Canon pigment printers, the Pro-300, like the Pro-200, enables borderless printing on matte and fine-art media, significantly expanding creative possibilities.
Image quality is simply spectacular for both color and monochrome prints. A standout feature is its ability to produce incredibly deep and detailed blacks, adding remarkable depth and richness to prints. While faster than some pigment printers, it’s not as quick as dye-based models, and pigment inks are not instantly dry upon printing.
Note: The Canon imagePrograf Pro-310, announced in January 2025, is set to replace the Pro-300 in the future.
Read my detailed review of the Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Unbeatable blacks and outstanding print quality, perfect for A3+ desktop printing. | ★★★★½ |
| Running Costs | Ten separate inks are more expensive, but deliver professional-grade performance. | ★★★★ |
| Overall Value | High investment for a “do-it-all” printer, but worth it for dedicated photo enthusiasts. | ★★★★½ |
Best 13-inch (A3+) Dye-Based Photo Printer
Canon Pixma Pro-200
4. Canon Pixma Pro-200
The Professional Choice for Glossy and Luster Photo Papers
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Dye-based
- Ink System: 8 individual cartridges
- Ink Capacity: 12.6ml cartridges
- Max Print Resolution: 4800 dpi (no scanner)
- Max Photo Print Speed: 1 minute 30 seconds (A3)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 639 x 379 x 200mm
- Weight: 14.1kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Ultimate Glossy Photo Quality: Produces unparalleled quality on glossy photo papers.
- Competitive Price Point: Attractively priced for a professional-grade photo printer.
- Comprehensive Ink Set: Features 8 individual ink cartridges for superior color rendition.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Matte Paper Limitation: Dye inks are less ideal for matte and fine-art papers.
- Moderate Ink Capacity: Cartridge capacity is not the highest available.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users seeking the highest quality for glossy color photo prints.
✅ Those who primarily use glossy or luster photo media and less frequently use matte or fine-art papers.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users requiring a printer with a built-in scanner.
❌ Those who only need Letter (A4) sized photo prints and not larger formats.
The Canon Pixma Pro-200 is the successor to the Pixma Pro-100, which was my long-standing favorite A3+/13-inch printer for glossy and luster photo papers. Utilizing eight dye-based inks, including black, grey, and light grey, the Pro-100 delivered exceptionally smooth glossy prints with accurate colors and excellent tonal range in monochrome images. The PRO-200 builds upon this legacy with several key enhancements, mirroring the improvements of the ImagePrograf Pro-300 over the older Pixma Pro-10 pigment model.
A major upgrade is the Pro-200’s new and improved ink set, delivering a wider color gamut, enhanced vibrancy, and richer reds, blues, and blacks. Paper handling remains intuitive, similar to the pigment-based Pro-300, with a rear upright feeder and a secondary manual feeder supporting custom print lengths up to 39 inches (99.1cm). Other shared features with the Pro-300 include a 3-inch color LCD screen and compatibility with Canon’s Professional Print & Layout software, a free download. Both printers are also compatible with a wide range of high-quality fine-art media from brands like Canson and Hahnemühle.
As expected, print speeds with this dye-based printer are faster than the pigment-based Pro-300. The difference in print quality between standard and highest quality modes is subtle unless viewed under magnification. Even in standard mode, the Pro-200 delivers outstanding photo print quality and excels on glossy photo paper, although the Pro-300 is superior for black & white images, especially on matte and fine-art media.
Read my in-depth review of the Canon Pixma Pro-200
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Excellent for color printing on glossy paper, achieving smooth, vibrant results. | ★★★★ |
| Running Costs | Eight inks can be somewhat costly depending on print volume, but quality is top-tier. | ★★★★½ |
| Overall Value | Lower upfront cost than many, making it ideal for glossy paper printing focus. | ★★★★½ |
Best 13-inch (A3+) Photo Printer for Panoramas
Epson Surecolor SC-P700
5. Epson SureColor SC-P700
The Panoramic Print Master in the 13-inch Category
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Pigment-based
- Ink System: 10 individual cartridges
- Ink Capacity: 25ml cartridges
- Max Print Resolution: 5760 dpi (no scanner)
- Max Photo Print Speed: Unspecified
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 515 x 368 x 185mm
- Weight: 12.6kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Integrated Roll Feeder: Includes a 2-inch core roll feeder for creating panoramic prints right out of the box.
- 10 Pigment Inks: Utilizes a 10-color pigment ink set for professional-grade output.
- Excellent Color and B&W: Delivers high-quality results for both color and monochrome images.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Glossy Paper Performance: Less impressive quality on glossy photo paper compared to matte.
- Short Setup Cartridge Life: “Setup” cartridges have a limited ink supply.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users needing a printer with a built-in roll feeder specifically for panoramic prints.
✅ Owners of older Epson SureColor printers looking for a significant upgrade in print quality and features.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users prioritizing the absolute best quality specifically for glossy photo prints.
❌ Those who prefer the higher ink capacity cartridges offered in the larger SC-P900 model.
My initial frustration with the Epson SureColor SC-P700 stems from the short lifespan of the “setup” ink cartridges included with the printer. After setup, the initial cartridges provided only enough ink for a handful of 13-inch (A3+) prints. Replacements are not inexpensive. However, once past this initial hurdle, the SC-P700 delivers outstanding photo quality for both color and black & white images, particularly on matte photo paper and fine-art media. Glossy print performance is less ideal due to noticeable “bronzing,” where varying ink densities create uneven reflectivity.
The SC-P700 is user-friendly, aided by a 4.3-inch color touchscreen. Connectivity is comprehensive with USB 3.0, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. A significant improvement over previous Epson 10-ink printers is the dedicated print head channels for all ten inks. Previously, shared channels for photo black and matte black inks required purging and switching inks when changing paper types, wasting considerable ink and time. The SC-P700 eliminates this issue.
While a capable 13-inch (A3+) printer, I believe the larger 17-inch (A2) SC-P900 offers greater value. Although a higher initial investment, the SC-P900 provides larger print capabilities and double the ink cartridge capacity, reducing long-term running costs.
Learn more in my Epson SureColor SC-P700 review
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Excels on most paper types except glossy, delivering high quality color and B&W prints. | ★★★★ |
| Running Costs | Initial setup inks are small, but subsequent 10-ink sets deliver excellent performance. | ★★★★½ |
| Overall Value | A serious investment for users demanding exceptional prints for home or professional use. | ★★★★½ |
Best Refillable 13-inch (A3+) Photo Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-8550
6. Epson EcoTank ET-8550
The Cost-Effective and Versatile Large-Format Ink Tank Printer
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Dye-based + Pigment Black
- Ink System: 6 ink tanks
- Ink Capacity: 70ml bottles
- Max Print/Scan Resolution: 5760 x 4800 dpi
- Max Photo Print Speed: 25 seconds (4×6 inch)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, SD card slot
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 523 x 379 x 169mm
- Weight: 11.1kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Multi-Purpose Functionality: Excellent for both document and photo printing at large formats.
- Low Running Costs: Bottle-fed ink system ensures very economical printing.
- Integrated Scanner & Touchscreen: Features a built-in scanner and intuitive touchscreen interface.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Higher Initial Price: More expensive upfront cost compared to cartridge-based printers.
- Photo Quality vs. Specialists: Doesn’t quite match the photo quality of dedicated photo printers, especially on glossy paper.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users needing a single large-format printer for both photos and documents.
✅ Those who appreciate multi-functionality with a built-in scanner and user-friendly touchscreen.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users prioritizing absolute top-tier photo quality on glossy paper from a specialist printer.
❌ Those who primarily print on matte or fine-art media, where pigment inks are generally preferred.
If Letter/A4 photo prints are sufficient, the Epson ET-8500 is a more economical choice than this larger 13-inch (A3+) version. While the initial cost of the ET-8550 is higher (though not significantly), both models utilize the same set of 70ml ink bottles.
The ink system includes a pigment-based black ink for crisp text and five dye-based inks (CMYK plus grey) for enhanced color and monochrome photo reproduction. A full set of ink bottles can yield approximately 2,300 6×4-inch photos. The EcoTank system truly shines for large-format printing, allowing for numerous large prints without constant concern over expensive cartridge replacements.
The Epson ET-8550 is well-suited for both document and photo printing. It includes multiple input trays for different paper types and sizes, and supports automatic duplex document printing. The built-in 8.5×14-inch scanner and intuitive 4.3-inch color touchscreen are highly convenient. Remote operation via the Epson Smart Panel app is also seamless. Connectivity options are plentiful, including USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, SD card slot, and USB port.
For larger format printing up to A3+/13×17-inch, it features an upright rear feeder and a horizontal feeder for banners and panoramas up to 2 meters long, and supports specialist media up to 1.3mm thick.
Print speeds are generally fast, except in the highest photo quality mode. Photo quality is good and vibrant, but not quite on par with specialized photo printers like the Canon Pixma Pro-200, which offers a wider range of photo-dedicated inks. However, considering it lacks light cyan and light magenta inks, the Epson ET-8550 still produces rich and vibrant colors.
Read more in my Epson EcoTank ET-8550 review
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Good print quality for both photos and documents, making it a great all-around printer. | ★★★★ |
| Running Costs | Low running costs, though slightly more expensive than the A4 version. | ★★★½ |
| Overall Value | Good overall value, representing a solid median option in the large-format range. | ★★★★ |
Best 17-inch (A2) Canon Photo Printer
Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100 printer in a wooden-interior studio, printing photographs
7. Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100
The Definitive 17-inch Photo Printer for Uncompromising Quality
Our expert review: (link to be added when available)
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Pigment-based
- Ink System: 12 individual cartridges
- Ink Capacity: 80ml cartridges
- Max Print Resolution: 2400 dpi (no scanner)
- Max Photo Print Speed: 3 minutes 35 seconds (A2)
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 723 x 435 x 285mm
- Weight: 32.3kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Unsurpassed Photo Quality: Delivers the highest possible photo quality, especially on matte and fine-art media.
- Excellent Glossy Paper Performance: Also performs very well on glossy photo paper.
- High-Capacity Inks: Features high-capacity 80ml ink cartridges for extended use.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Large and Heavy: A substantial and heavy printer requiring significant desk space.
- High Purchase Price: A significant investment for a top-tier photo printer.
- No Scanner or Touchscreen: Lacks a built-in scanner and touchscreen interface.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users demanding maximum print quality and large print sizes (up to 17-inch/A2).
✅ Professionals who require borderless printing on matte and fine-art media for gallery-quality displays.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users who primarily print on glossy photo paper and less on matte or fine art.
❌ Those who prefer a more compact and lightweight printer due to space limitations.
The Pro-1100 is Canon’s new flagship, succeeding the Pro-1000. Initially, I was skeptical about whether Canon could improve upon the Pro-1000’s already exceptional performance. However, I was proven wrong, particularly impressed by the enhanced depth of blacks in print tests.
While a large and expensive printer, the Pro-1100’s results are undeniable. Print quality is simply unmatched on matte and fine art papers, inheriting the strengths of the Pro-1000 and incorporating monochrome printing enhancements from the Pro-300.
The Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100 utilizes upgraded Lucia Pro II inks. These 11 pigment-based inks now include wax for increased scratch and abrasion resistance, and boast lightfastness up to 200 years. The Chroma Optimizer tank improves glossy paper performance, while the new matte black ink, adopted from the Pro-300, produces incredibly deep blacks, making older monochrome prints appear grey in comparison.
It offers seven new paper sizes and four additional borderless printing sizes compared to the Pro-1000. The long-form print capability for roll paper has been extended from 1.2m to a maximum of 3.2767m, a boon for banner and panorama printing.
Pigment-based printers are typically slower than dye-based models, but the Pro-1100 maintains the speed of its predecessor, outputting full A2 prints in approximately 3.5 minutes. As with all pigment inks, allowing prints to fully dry after exiting the printer is recommended. A full set of cartridges is expensive, but the unusually high 80ml capacity provides more ink than many refillable ink bottles.
Read our upcoming Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100 review
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Outstanding print quality, especially on matte and fine-art paper, setting a new benchmark. | ★★★★½ |
| Running Costs | High cost per print due to pro-grade quality, but results justify the expense. | ★★★★ |
| Overall Value | High upfront and running costs, but top-tier performance makes it class-leading. | ★★★★½ |
Best 17-inch (A2) Epson Photo Printer
Epson SureColor SC-P900
8. Epson SureColor SC-P900
The Compact 17-inch Professional Photo Printer
Read our expert review:
Key Specifications:
- Ink Type: Pigment-based
- Ink System: 10 individual cartridges
- Ink Capacity: 50ml cartridges
- Max Print Resolution: 5760 dpi (no scanner)
- Max Photo Print Speed: Unspecified
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 615 x 368 x 199mm
- Weight: 14.8kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact and Lightweight: Relatively small and light for a 17-inch printer.
- Excellent Color and B&W: Produces high-quality color and monochrome prints.
- Matte and Fine-Art Media Focus: Optimized for matte and fine-art paper types.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Glossy Paper Performance: Not the best choice for users primarily printing on glossy photo paper.
- High Purchase Price: Still a significant investment, though less than some competitors.
Who Should Buy It:
✅ Users wanting large format prints (up to 17-inch/A2) but needing a relatively compact printer.
✅ Those specializing in matte and fine-art media printing.
Who Should Not Buy It:
❌ Users demanding exceptional quality on glossy paper alongside matte and fine-art media.
❌ Those who prefer the higher ink capacity cartridges found in the Canon PRO-1000.
Having discussed the Epson SureColor SC-P700 13-inch (A3+) printer, a direct competitor to the Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300, the SC-P900 17-inch (A2) model is naturally more expensive. However, it offers supersized output in a printer that is surprisingly close in size and weight to the Canon 13-inch (A3+) model. The SC-P900’s 50ml cartridges have twice the capacity of the SC-P700’s, leading to ink cost savings, although still less than the Canon Pro-1000’s 80ml cartridges.
Previous large-format Epson printers shared a channel for photo black and matte black inks, requiring ink purging and refills when switching media types, wasting time and ink. The SC-P700 and SC-P900 address this with dedicated channels for all ten inks.
The SC-P900’s handling features include a pull-out front feeder for fine-art media and thick poster board, and support for extra-long cut-sheet media. A roll paper feeder is available as an optional extra (included with the SC-P700). The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is intuitive, and the translucent top panel and interior LED lighting are useful for monitoring prints.
While up to five quality settings are available depending on media type, the highest settings are often slow with minimal quality improvement for most images. Print quality is excellent for both color and monochrome, though the Canon Pro-300 has a slight edge in black depth, and the Epson lacks a ‘chroma optimizer’ cartridge, resulting in less smooth glossy prints.
Read more in my Epson SureColor SC-P900 review
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Excellent on most media types, but slightly less so on glossy paper. | ★★★★½ |
| Running Costs | Ten inks mean slightly higher running costs than 4-color printers, but justified by quality. | ★★★★ |
| Overall Value | A good investment for pro-grade quality in a compact 17-inch format. | ★★★★½ |
How to Choose the Best Photo Printer for Your Needs
Selecting the right photo printer depends on various factors. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations to guide your decision:
Dye vs. Pigment Inks: Understanding the Difference
Pigment-based inks utilize larger ink molecules, making them more durable and smudge-resistant. This is ideal for document printing on plain paper and offers greater resistance to moisture and highlighter pens. Pigment inks excel in premium photo printing on matte and fine-art media.
Dye-based inks, on the other hand, are better suited for glossy photo prints. Their smaller molecules allow the ink to fully absorb beneath the glossy top layer of photo paper, resulting in vibrant, high-quality images with a smooth finish.
Choosing between dye and pigment ink depends primarily on the type of prints you intend to create most often. If you favor glossy photos or need a printer for general document use alongside occasional photos, dye-based or hybrid systems might be suitable. For matte and fine art prints, pigment-based printers are the superior choice.
Ink Cartridges: How Many Colors Do You Need?
Traditional printers use CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) inks, which are sufficient for basic mono and color document printing. Some dual-purpose photo/document printers incorporate both dye-based and pigment-based black inks. Dye-based black ink enhances depth and contrast compared to “composite black” (created by mixing CMY inks).
High-end photo printers frequently go beyond CMYK, adding inks like light cyan and light magenta to expand the color gamut and improve subtle color gradations. Top-tier models often include extra grey inks to enhance tonal range and depth in black-and-white photo prints, providing smoother transitions and richer blacks.
The number of inks directly impacts the color accuracy, tonal range, and overall print quality, especially for photographs. More inks generally translate to finer color control and smoother gradients, particularly crucial for professional-level photo printing.
Scanner Functionality: Do You Need a Multi-Function Printer?
While your primary need might be photo printing, consider whether a built-in scanner would be beneficial. Multi-function inkjet printers combine printing, scanning, and copying capabilities into one device. This versatility can be valuable for digitizing existing photos, documents, or creating quick copies.
Many multi-function models also feature an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), which automates scanning or copying multi-page documents, saving time and effort. The most advanced ADF scanners can even capture both sides of double-sided documents in a single pass, significantly increasing scanning speed.
If you anticipate needing to scan or copy documents or photos regularly, a multi-function printer is a practical choice. However, if your focus is solely on achieving the highest possible photo print quality, a single-function photo printer might be preferable, as these models often prioritize print engine technology over additional features.
Ink Cartridges vs. Ink Tanks: Cost and Convenience
Ink tank printers (like Canon MegaTank and Epson EcoTank models) offer significant advantages over traditional cartridge-based printers in both cost efficiency and convenience. Cartridge-based printers often come with low-capacity “setup cartridges,” and replacement cartridges can be as expensive as, or even more than, the printer itself.
Beyond the expense, cartridges can run out unexpectedly, causing frustration. For frequent printing, cartridges can become both costly and inconvenient. Ink tank systems, on the other hand, use bottled ink to refill large integrated tanks, drastically reducing ink costs per page and increasing the time between refills.
If you plan to print photos regularly, especially in larger volumes, an ink tank printer will likely save you considerable money on ink in the long run. The higher initial cost of ink tank printers is typically offset by the much lower cost of replacement ink bottles over time.
Canon PRO-300
Refilling Ink Tanks: Is It a Messy Process?
Concerns about messy refills with ink tank printers are largely outdated. Modern ink bottles feature keyed tops that only fit into the correct color tank, preventing accidental mixing.
Refilling is now designed to be mess-free and effortless, utilizing a gravity-fed system. Ink dispenses only when the bottle is securely inserted into the tank, and an internal valve automatically stops ink flow once the tank is full. This streamlined process ensures clean and simple ink refills.
Genuine vs. Third-Party Inks: Is Saving Money Worth the Risk?
Third-party ink cartridges and papers are often significantly cheaper than genuine manufacturer supplies. However, ultra-cheap options carry risks. Impurities in low-quality inks can clog print head nozzles, potentially causing serious printer damage.
For photo printing, using low-quality ink can result in poor color accuracy and significantly reduced print longevity. To ensure printer reliability, high print quality, and long-lasting prints, it’s generally best to use genuine manufacturer supplies or reputable third-party alternatives rather than the cheapest options available. Investing in quality ink and paper is essential for preserving your prints and maintaining printer performance.
How We Test Photo Printers: Ensuring Reliable Recommendations
Our photo printer testing process begins with installing the latest software drivers and performing nozzle checks and print head alignment. We then create a series of test prints, including:
- Mono documents: To assess text sharpness and black density.
- Mixed text and graphics color documents: To evaluate color accuracy and document print quality.
- Diverse digital photos: A range of landscapes, portraits, and black & white images to test photo quality across different subjects and tones.
We evaluate prints using various quality modes and image enhancement features. We also utilize a custom-designed test chart to objectively assess:
- Color reproduction accuracy: How faithfully colors are rendered compared to the original image.
- Tonal range: The printer’s ability to reproduce subtle shades and transitions from highlights to shadows.
- Detail retention: Preservation of fine details in bright highlights and dark shadows.
- Smooth gradations: Ability to produce smooth transitions in subtle color variations, avoiding banding or abrupt shifts.
We exclusively use the printer manufacturer’s own-brand inks and papers throughout our testing to ensure consistent and optimal performance evaluation.
For output speed, we measure the time taken to produce prints of various sizes at different quality settings. Ink costs are calculated based on typical page yield figures provided by the manufacturer and average retail prices for their own-brand cartridges or bottles.
Learn more about how we test and review products at Digital Camera World
