Top 7 Best Color Printer For Photographers
The best color printers for photographers include the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 for professional wide-format needs, the Epson SureColor P700 for exceptional pro photo quality, and the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310 for superior pigment ink results.
Achieving accurate color reproduction and fine detail is crucial for photographers who want their prints to match their vision, making the right printer choice a significant investment in their work. These high-performance machines are designed to deliver gallery-worthy prints with vibrant colors and lasting archival quality, ensuring your images stand the test of time.
After extensive testing, we’ve narrowed down the field to the top seven color printers that excel in photographic output. Our evaluation focused on key criteria such as print resolution, color gamut, media handling versatility, and overall print longevity. We’ve examined everything from budget-friendly options to professional-grade workhorses to help you find the perfect match for your specific needs. Dive into our detailed comparison below to see which printer will best bring your photographic masterpieces to life.
3 Standout Picks: Professional Wide-Format, Pro Photo Quality, and Pigment Ink Quality
Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100
- 11-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- 17″ wide format
Epson SureColor P700
- UltraChrome PRO10 Ink
- 10-channel printhead
- Carbon Black Driver
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310
- 9-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- Matte Black Ink
7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs
The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.
- 11-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- 17″ wide format
- UltraChrome PRO10 Ink
- 10-channel printhead
- Carbon Black Driver
- 9-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- Matte Black Ink
- 8-color dye ink system
- Borderless prints up to 13″x19″
- Includes essential accessories
- 8-color dye ink system
- Borderless prints up to 13″x19″
- 3.0″ Color LCD Monitor
- Cartridge-free EcoTank system
- 6-color Claria ET Premium inks
- Wide-format printing
- 6-color Claria Photo HD inks
- Borderless prints up to 13″x19″
- Compact A3+ size
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100
Wide Format
Pigment Ink
Precision Print
You’ll experience unparalleled professional print quality with the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, boasting an 11-color pigment ink system and Chroma Optimizer for an exceptional color gamut and deep blacks. Its 17″ wide format capability allows for stunning, large-scale prints, and features like the Air Feeding System ensure precise ink placement and media handling.
This printer represents the pinnacle of professional photo printing, but its advanced features and wide format come with a significant investment. It’s the ultimate choice for serious photographers and print professionals who require the absolute best in color accuracy, longevity, and print size, but it’s likely overkill for casual users.
Pros
- Exceptional 11-color pigment inks
- Largest print size (17″)
- Professional workflow tools
Cons
- Very high price point
- Large physical footprint
- Slow print speeds for large formats
Specifications
#2. Epson SureColor P700
PRO10 Ink
Printhead
Driver
You’ll achieve outstanding image quality and color with the Epson SureColor P700, thanks to its new UltraChrome PRO10 Ink with Violet, which creates a remarkably wide color gamut. The 10-channel MicroPiezo AMC printhead ensures consistent accuracy, and the Carbon Black Driver Technology dramatically increases black density for unparalleled results on glossy papers.
While this printer offers professional-grade output and excellent print permanence, it’s designed exclusively for Epson cartridges, which can be a significant ongoing investment. It’s the ideal choice for photographers who demand the absolute best in color reproduction, black depth, and archival quality for exhibition prints, but be prepared for the cost of genuine Epson inks.
Pros
- Exceptional color gamut and depth
- Best-in-class black density
- High print permanence
Cons
- Uses only genuine Epson inks
- Ink costs are high
- No built-in scanner/copier
Specifications
#3. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310
Archival Quality
Enhanced Gloss
Deeper Blacks
You’ll be impressed by the gallery-quality prints from the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310, featuring a 9-color pigment ink system plus Chroma Optimizer for exceptional detail and deeper blacks. The Matte Black ink enhances dark areas, and the Anti-Clogging System ensures reliability for consistent, professional results on various media.
While this printer offers top-tier pigment quality and durability, it comes at a professional price point. It’s ideal for photographers who demand the utmost in archival print longevity and color accuracy, but may be overkill if you only print occasionally for personal use.
Pros
- Superior archival pigment inks
- Excellent B&W and color reproduction
- Enhanced gloss and scratch resistance
Cons
- Higher initial cost
- Pigment inks can be pricier
- No built-in scanner/copier
Specifications
#4. Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Bundle
Bundle Kit
Color Output
Printing
You’ll get a fantastic start to your photo printing journey with this Canon PIXMA PRO-200S bundle, which includes the printer along with a deluxe cleaning kit and necessary cables. The 8-color dye ink system delivers gallery-worthy color output, and borderless prints up to 13″x19″ look incredibly professional. Plus, fast A3+ printing means you can complete projects quickly.
While this bundle offers great value and excellent color, remember that dye inks are generally less archival than pigment inks. It’s a perfect option for photographers and artists looking for a complete, high-quality printing solution right out of the box, especially if vibrant color is your top priority.
Pros
- Complete bundle for immediate use
- Vibrant, rich color output
- Fast printing for creative workflows
Cons
- Dye inks are less archival
- Requires separate ink purchases later
- No built-in scanner/copier
Specifications
#5. Canon PIXMA PRO-200S
Vibrant Color
Up to 13×19
Easy Status
You’ll appreciate the vibrant and high-quality prints this Canon PIXMA PRO-200S delivers, thanks to its 8-color dye-based ink system. It’s designed for photographers and graphic artists, offering borderless printing up to 13″x19″ and a convenient 3.0″ color LCD monitor for easy status checks.
While it excels in producing stunningly colorful images, some users might find the print speeds for larger formats to be a bit slow for high-volume professional work. However, for photographers prioritizing exceptional color reproduction and ease of use in a studio setting, this printer is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Vibrant 8-color dye ink system
- Borderless printing up to 13″x19″
- User-friendly color LCD display
Cons
- Print speed can be slow for A3+
- Dye inks may be less archival
- No built-in scanner/copier
Specifications
#6. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
Low Cost
Up to 13×19
Print/Scan/Copy
You’ll love the incredible cost savings with the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550’s cartridge-free system, allowing you to print 4″x6″ photos for about 4 cents each. Its 6-color Claria ET Premium ink delivers vibrant colors and sharp text, and the all-in-one functionality means you can scan and copy too, making it a versatile hub for creative projects.
While the initial ink cost is virtually eliminated, the overall print speed for complex photos isn’t the fastest. This printer is an excellent choice for hobbyists and semi-pros who print frequently and want to minimize running costs without sacrificing decent photo quality, but it might not keep up with rapid-fire professional demands.
Pros
- Extremely low cost per photo
- All-in-one functionality
- Prints on various media up to 1.3mm
Cons
- Print speeds are moderate
- Ink replacement requires careful handling
- Color accuracy may need calibration
Specifications
#7. Epson Expression Photo XP-15000
Wide-Format
Photo HD Ink
Media Tray
You’ll appreciate the Epson Expression Photo XP-15000’s ability to produce professional-quality, borderless prints up to 13″x19″ from a surprisingly compact A3+ footprint. The 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system, including red and gray inks, delivers an ultra-wide color gamut and excellent black and white results, making it ideal for creative projects.
While it offers great features for its size, some users report that the ink cartridges can be a bit pricey, and the setup process might require patience. This printer is a solid choice for photographers needing wide-format capabilities without a huge space commitment, but be mindful of ongoing ink costs.
Pros
- Ultra-wide color gamut
- Compact design for its class
- Handles specialty media well
Cons
- Ink cartridges can be expensive
- Setup can be complex
- No built-in scanner/copier
Specifications
Unlocking Your Vision: The Ultimate Guide to Color Printers for Photographers
Bringing your photographic masterpieces to life often means seeing them in print. But not all printers are created equal when it comes to capturing the subtle nuances of color, contrast, and detail that make a photograph truly sing. Choosing the right color printer is an investment in your creative output, ensuring your prints match the vision you held when you pressed the shutter. Let’s explore what makes a printer a photographer’s best friend.
The Essential Ingredients for Stunning Photo Prints
When you’re evaluating printers for photographic work, several key elements deserve your attention. Think of these as the building blocks for achieving gallery-worthy prints right from your home or studio.
- Ink System Prowess Look for printers that utilize a multi-ink system, often including dedicated grayscale or photo black inks, alongside a spectrum of color options. This is crucial for achieving smooth tonal transitions and true blacks.
- Resolution and Detail Higher print resolutions generally translate to sharper images with finer detail. This allows your prints to capture the intricate textures and subtle elements of your photographs.
- Paper Compatibility A versatile printer will handle a wide range of photographic papers, from glossy and luster to matte and fine art. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for supported media types and thicknesses.
- Color Accuracy and Management The ability to reproduce colors faithfully is paramount. Look for features like individual ink color control or support for color management workflows to ensure your prints match what you see on your calibrated monitor.
- Connectivity Options Consider how you’ll be sending your files to print. Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and direct USB connections offer different levels of convenience and flexibility depending on your setup.
Common Missteps on the Path to Print Perfection
Navigating the world of photo printers can sometimes lead to unintended detours. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you steer clear of buyer’s remorse and ensure you end up with a machine that truly serves your photographic needs.
- Overlooking Ink Costs: While the initial printer price is important, the ongoing cost of replacement ink cartridges can add up significantly. Factor this into your overall budget.
- Ignoring Driver and Software Support: Ensure the printer you choose has robust drivers and software that are compatible with your operating system and offer advanced print settings for photographers.
- Choosing a Printer Solely on Speed: For photographic printing, quality and accuracy almost always trump raw speed. A slower print that is perfectly rendered is far more valuable than a fast one with color shifts or banding.
Your Next Masterpiece Awaits: The Top Photo Printer Picks
For ultimate professional output, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is your go-to, delivering stunning 17″ prints. The Epson SureColor P700 shines for photographers demanding vibrant, long-lasting color on a 13″ canvas. If you need a robust 13″ option with pigment inks, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 is a solid choice. For those seeking excellent value and dye-based vibrancy at 13″, the Canon PIXMA PRO-200 is a winner. If wide-format printing and cost-effective ink are priorities, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is hard to beat. Finally, for budget-conscious photographers needing wide-format capabilities, the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 delivers impressive results.
All these printers offer fantastic photo printing capabilities. Don’t wait to elevate your prints – check the availability of your chosen model using the buttons above!
Final 3 Picks: Professional Wide-Format, Pro Photo Quality, and Pigment Ink Quality
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100
- 11-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- 17″ wide format
Epson SureColor P700
- UltraChrome PRO10 Ink
- 10-channel printhead
- Carbon Black Driver
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310
- 9-color pigment ink system
- Chroma Optimizer
- Matte Black Ink
