Category: Printers for Construction Firms

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Top Large Format Printer Brands for AEC Industry in 2025

For AEC professionals, the stakes are high. 

A scaling error in construction documents can cost thousands in field corrections. 

Poor color accuracy in architectural renderings can lose client presentations and slow printing speeds can delay project milestones. 

At Steven Enterprises, we have supported Southern California’s AEC community for over three generations to navigate the evolving landscape of large format printing technology. 

We’ve watched the industry shift from purely technical output to demanding hybrid capabilities; crisp CAD drawings in the morning and vibrant client presentations in the afternoon.

This guide explores the top large format printer brands we always recommend for AEC professionals..

Understanding Print Volume and Technology Choices

The fundamental decision between ink-based and toner-based technology remains critical, but here are the considerations that affect this choice:

  • Ink-Based Territory: Under 10,000 Square Feet Monthly
    Small to medium AEC firms like boutique architecture studios, specialized engineering consultancies, or regional construction companies, typically fall into this range. 

At approximately $0.025 per square foot, ink-based printing costs remain manageable while delivering superior color accuracy and fine detail reproduction.

  • Toner-Based Territory: 10,000-20,000+ Square Feet Monthly
    Larger operations like multi-discipline firms, major construction companies managing multiple projects, or regional headquarters producing plans for branch offices, benefit dramatically from toner’s $0.011 per square foot cost. 

At these volumes, the savings compound significantly: a firm printing 15,000 square feet monthly saves roughly $2,520 annually with toner versus ink.

The Real Cost Difference

While ink costs essentially double what toner costs per square foot, the decision involves more than simple math. 

Consider setup time, maintenance frequency, media versatility, and output quality for your specific applications. 

Sometimes paying more per print makes sense when it delivers capabilities your projects demand.

For comprehensive strategies on reducing printing supply expenses, explore our guide: How AEC Firms Can Maximize Savings on Large Format Printing Supplies.

Top Ink-Based Large Format Printer Brands for AEC

Ink-based printers continue dominating among AEC firms prioritizing output quality, color accuracy, and file complexity handling. 

HP Large Format Printers

HP maintains its leadership position in AEC technical printing through continuous innovation in AutoCAD file processing, dimensional accuracy, and integrated software solutions.

These printers handle the full spectrum of AEC printing needs: precise construction documents, color-coded MEP plans, and presentation-quality renderings. 

The HP Click mobile app, now standard across the DesignJet line, allows architects to print directly from project sites or client meetings without returning to the office.

Recent improvements in printhead technology have dramatically increased processing speed for complex CAD files. 

What once took 10-15 minutes to rip and print now completes in under 5 minutes; meaningful time savings when deadlines loom.

Recommended HP Series for AEC:

For detailed HP model comparisons organized by print volume and cost analysis, see: Top HP Wide Format Printers: Organized By Print Volume & Costs.

Canon Large Format Printers

Canon continues excelling in applications where color accuracy and visual impact determine success. 

While HP dominates purely technical printing, Canon leads when architectural visualization, photorealistic rendering, and presentation quality take priority.

Canon’s recent integration of acquired OCE technology brings improved technical printing capabilities to traditionally graphic-focused equipment. 

This convergence allows architecture firms to use one printer for both daily technical work and premium presentation output.

Understanding the distinction between graphic and technical printers helps clarify when Canon’s strengths matter most: Choosing Between Graphic and Technical Large Format Printers.

Top Toner-Based Large Format Printer Brands for AEC

Toner-based LED printers dominate in high-volume AEC environments where consistent speed and operating cost efficiency determine profitability. 

KIP Large Format Printers

KIP leads the toner-based market through relentless focus on software development and user experience. 

While other manufacturers emphasize hardware specifications, KIP invests in making printing easier, faster, and more intuitive. 

These qualities are particularly valuable in busy AEC environments where technical staff shouldn’t need to become printing experts.

Construction companies printing plan sets for multiple trades daily appreciate KIP’s consistent 10-12 page per minute output regardless of page coverage or complexity.

Recommended KIP Models for AEC:

  • KIP 700 Series: Mid-range with enhanced capabilities for growing practices
  • KIP 900 Series: High-capacity for major firms and construction companies

OCE Large Format Printers

OCE built its reputation on consistent, reliable performance in demanding production environments, exactly what AEC firms need when printing delays can impact project deadlines. 

Now fully integrated under Canon ownership, OCE equipment benefits from Canon’s technological innovation while maintaining the dependability that made OCE trusted in conservative AEC organizations.

OCE printers deliver steady, predictable performance without the learning curve or complexity some modern systems introduce. 

Engineering consultancies appreciate consistent line quality across extensive print runs. 

Construction companies value toner-based print durability in harsh jobsite conditions where ink-based prints might smudge or fade.

Recommended OCE Series for AEC:

Want to Upgrade Your AEC Printing Capabilities?

The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry continues to evolve, and so do the printing technologies that support it. 

We understand that most firms develop brand loyalty for good reasons and we respect those preferences while ensuring you’re selecting equipment truly matched to your current and future needs.

Our team provides:

  • On-site workflow analysis identifying actual printing requirements
  • Side-by-side demonstrations of relevant equipment options
  • Installation, training, and ongoing support

Contact our team of experts or call (800) 491-8785 for personalized guidance tailored to your specific AEC discipline, print volume, and workflow requirements.

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Is the HP Pagewide XL 5200 worth investing in?

Is the HP Pagewide XL 5200 worth investing in?

When it comes to high-volume printing in industries like architecture, engineering, and construction, choosing the right large format plotter can make or break project timelines. 

The HP PageWide XL 5200 is designed for businesses that need fast, reliable, and high-quality prints to keep complex projects moving forward.

At Steven Enterprises, we often get asked: “Is the HP PageWide XL 5200 worth investing in?” 

The answer depends on your printing needs, but for industries where detailed plans and quick turnarounds are critical, the XL 5200 is a powerhouse.

Let’s break down what makes this machine a smart investment for the right kind of workflow.

When the HP PageWide XL 5200 Makes Sense

High-Volume Operations: The 20,000+ Square Foot Threshold

HP PageWide XL 5200 Printer

The HP PageWide XL 5200 becomes cost-effective when your operation prints over 20,000 square feet per month. 

This speed is critical for industries that need quick turnarounds on large volumes of technical drawings, such as AutoCAD renderings, ensuring projects stay on schedule.

For example, printing multiple copies of building plans for handoffs among contractors is seamless and efficient.

Another good thing about this powerhouse is its reliability. 

It uses HP PageWide XL pigment inks for vivid colors, crisp lines, and fine details that outperform traditional LED printers, ensuring reliable output even under heavy workloads. 

This durability is ideal for demanding environments where equipment must perform consistently.

 The PageWide XL 5200 supports industries with complex dependencies, such as:

  • Engineering: Produces precise technical drawings for project planning.
  • Architects: Creates high-quality renderings for client presentations and contractor handoffs.
  • Construction: Supports rapid printing of updated plans to keep all teams aligned.
  • Electricians and Plumbers: Provides detailed schematics for accurate installations.
  • Fire Sprinkler Installations: Fire sprinkler installers, in particular, rely on highly detailed prints due to frequent changes driven by other contractors’ decisions. The PageWide XL 5200’s ability to produce precise, large-format prints ensures compliance and accuracy, even with frequent revisions.

Who Should Invest in the HP PageWide XL 5200?

HP PageWide XL Pro 5200 MFP

The 5200 excels in industries where multiple stakeholders depend on timely, accurate documentation:

Engineering Firms

Engineering companies managing complex projects require rapid turnaround on technical drawings, specifications, and design revisions. The 5200’s speed ensures engineering teams can meet tight deadlines while maintaining precision.

Architecture Practices

Large architectural firms working on multiple simultaneous projects need consistent, high-quality output for client presentations, permit submissions, and contractor communications.

Construction Management

General contractors coordinating multiple subcontractors require quick access to updated plans and specifications as projects evolve.

When the Investment Doesn’t Make Sense

Businesses printing less than 3,000 square feet per month typically can’t justify the 5200’s premium:

  • Underutilized capacity: The printer’s speed advantages aren’t realized at low volumes
  • Higher per-page costs: Premium equipment costs more to operate at low utilization
  • Simpler alternatives: Lower-volume operations can achieve adequate results with less expensive options

In these cases, a smaller model like the HP DesignJet XL 3800 may deliver the speed and reliability you want at a lower investment.

However, even some lower-volume teams choose the 5200 for its unmatched speed and reliability—especially if meeting deadlines is more valuable than saving on upfront cost.

See the Power of the HP PageWide XL 5200 in Action

The best way to understand the PageWide XL 5200’s capabilities is to see it yourself. At Steven Enterprises, we offer both:

  • In-person demos so you can test the machine directly
  • Virtual demos to see its performance from your office

Ready to explore whether the HP PageWide XL 5200 is worth it for your business? Fill this form today or call us at 800-491-8785 to schedule a demo and get the best pricing available.

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How IT Firms Can Boost Revenue by Reselling Wide Format Printers

Wide Format Printer

IT firms across the country are discovering a lucrative revenue stream that’s hiding in plain sight: reselling wide format printers to their Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) clients.

At Steven Enterprises, we have seen forward-thinking IT firms build steady income simply by guiding their AEC accounts through printer selection, network integration, and ongoing support.

Providing IT services to AEC businesses and haven’t explored this opportunity yet?

You’re missing out on significant additional income while your competitors are already capitalizing on this natural extension of IT services.

Here’s why wide-format printer sales are earning a place in the modern IT service stack and how to decide if this revenue channel belongs in yours.

Why IT Firms Are Perfect for Wide Format Printer Sales

As an IT professional, you are uniquely positioned to recommend and manage wide format printing solutions because you already understand your clients’ networks, security requirements, and operational needs. 

When AEC businesses need large format printing capabilities, they naturally turn to their trusted IT partners for guidance.

The relationship makes perfect sense. 

You are already managing their technology infrastructure, so adding printing solutions creates a seamless extension of your existing services while providing substantial additional revenue.

What Additional Income Streams Work Best for IT Firms?

Wide format printer reselling offers IT firms multiple revenue opportunities like:

  • Initial equipment sales with competitive margins
  • Network setup and integration services (your core expertise)
  • Ongoing maintenance and support contracts
  • Security monitoring and updates
  • User training and workflow optimization
  • Consumables and supplies management

This diversified income stream means you generate money from the initial sale and also build long-term, recurring revenue relationships.

The Strategic Advantage: Network Control and Security

Kip 600 Series Printer

When you help source and select wide format printers for your AEC clients, you gain several critical advantages:

  • Network Security Control: You choose machines you trust on your managed networks, eliminating potential security vulnerabilities from unknown or incompatible devices.
  • Brand Reliability: Leading manufacturers such as HP, KIP, and Canon all offer excellent software platforms with robust security features, providing confidence in the solutions you implement.
  • Ongoing Service Opportunities: Once printers are installed, you become the go-to resource for network integration, troubleshooting, security updates, and user support. This creates multiple touchpoints that strengthen your client relationships.

Which IT Service Models Work Best for Wide Format Printer Sales?

The opportunity varies based on your service model:

  • Large AEC companies typically have in-house IT departments that can become internal champions for your solutions
  • Smaller AEC firms usually rely on outsourced IT services, making you the natural point person for all technology decisions, including printing infrastructure.

Both scenarios present opportunities, but outsourced IT relationships often provide more direct influence over purchasing decisions.

Why are AEC Businesses Ideal Clients for This Service?

Colorado m3 Canon printer

Architecture, Engineering, and Construction firms have unique printing needs that require specialized knowledge:

  • Large format technical drawings and blueprints
  • High-volume document processing
  • Color accuracy for presentations and marketing materials
  • Network integration with existing CAD and project management systems
  • Security requirements for sensitive project data

Your existing relationship and technical expertise make you the ideal consultant for these specialized requirements.

How Does IT Involvement Improve Printing Security for Clients?

When you manage wide format printer selection and implementation, you provide significant security benefits to your AEC clients:

  • Risk Mitigation: You can evaluate and implement proper security protocols from day one, thereby preventing potential data breaches through the use of unsecured printing devices.
  • Network Integration: A professional setup ensures that printers are properly configured within existing security frameworks, rather than creating vulnerable access points.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Your continued involvement means security updates and monitoring become part of your managed services offering.

What Cost Savings Can IT Firms Demonstrate to AEC Clients?

Beyond security benefits, you can show clients tangible cost savings:

  • Reduced downtime through proper network integration and ongoing support
  • Optimized printing workflows that improve productivity
  • Bulk purchasing power when you manage equipment procurement
  • Preventive maintenance that extends equipment life and reduces emergency service calls

How We Help IT Firms Succeed in Wide Format Sales

Expert Equipment Selection

Our team helps you select the machines that are best suited for your clients’ specific needs, taking into account their volume requirements, security standards, and integration needs.

Security Deep-Dive Analysis

We’ll provide you with detailed comparisons of security features across different brands (HP, KIP, Canon), giving you the technical knowledge to make informed recommendations and articulate security benefits to your clients.

Client Implementation Support

Steven Enterprises helps you pitch your clients by providing materials that clearly demonstrate the value proposition: cost savings for them combined with risk removal for potential security breaches.

We also handle all the technical legwork for your client relationship, making you more valuable as their trusted IT advisor while ensuring seamless implementation.

Are Other IT Firms Reselling Wide Format Printers?

IT firms across the country are already capitalizing on this opportunity. From coast to coast, smart IT professionals have recognized that wide format printer sales and management represent a natural evolution of their service offerings.

The trend is clear and in favor of IT service providers that deliver print services as part of a broader offering. 

Companies are asking their IT partners to “find a printer” because they trust their technical judgment and want integrated solutions.

What Happens If You Don’t Adapt?

If you’re not offering wide format printing solutions to your AEC clients, you’re likely missing revenue opportunities while competitors position themselves as more comprehensive technology partners.

The businesses that provide complete technology solutions—including printing infrastructure—become more valuable and harder to replace than those offering only traditional IT services.

Getting Started with Wide Format Printer Sales

Starting your wide format printer sales program doesn’t require massive upfront investment or extensive training. 

The key is maximizing your existing client relationships and technical expertise while partnering with experienced suppliers who can provide the specialized knowledge you need.

What Support Do You Need to Succeed?

Successful IT firms in this space rely on knowledgeable partners who can:

  • Provide technical specifications and comparisons
  • Offer competitive pricing and terms
  • Handle complex client questions about printing workflows
  • Support implementation and ongoing service needs
  • Keep you updated on new technologies and security features

Add Wide Format Printers to Your IT Service Portfolio

The opportunity to boost your revenue while providing additional value to your AEC clients is significant, but success requires the right partnership and approach.

Let us help you build this lucrative service offering while strengthening your client relationships.

Call 800-491-8785 or reach out through our contact form to discuss how we can help you capitalize on the wide format printing opportunity in your market.

We’ll help you do all the legwork for your clients, positioning you as their complete technology solution provider while building a profitable new revenue stream for your business.

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How to Rent a Plotter for Your Large Format Printing

When you need a large-format printer for only a few months, such as for a film shoot, job site trailer, or special event, purchasing outright can feel like overkill. 

Renting a plotter solves that dilemma by giving you professional-grade printing capabilities without the long-term costs and responsibilities of ownership.

At Steven Enterprises, we have helped organizations across industries manage short-term printing needs through flexible rental plans, on-site setup, and comprehensive support.

Let’s investigate why you should rent a plotter rather than buy one.

Who Should Rent a Plotter?

1. Movie & TV Production Studios

Film and TV productions often require on-set printing for set designs, location layouts, and promotional materials. 

Because each show’s shooting schedule might last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, renting a plotter allows studios to scale up or down without paying for a device they may not use after production wraps.

Case in Point: A streaming studio needed a wide-format solution for a 6-month pilot series. By renting an HP Z9 from Steven Enterprises, they printed 500+ large-format designs — everything from storyboards to promotional posters — and saved roughly $22,000 over buying a new device or outsourcing. Once the show was green-lit for Season 2, they confidently purchased the Z9 outright, proving its value and reliability.

2. Construction & Engineering Teams

Many construction and engineering projects happen at temporary job sites lasting just a few months. Quick access to large-format blueprints, permits, and as-builts can save critical time and keep projects moving forward.

When the project ends, you don’t have to store or resell the equipment you used. Simply return it, and you’re done — no ongoing maintenance or depreciation to manage.

3. Event Planners & Trade Shows

One-time or seasonal events—such as trade shows, festivals, or holiday promotions—often demand vibrant banners, directional signage, and floor plans on a tight deadline. Owning a plotter that sits idle for most of the year isn’t cost-effective.

Rent a wide-format printer for the duration of your event schedule. Afterward, return the machine and eliminate the headaches of storage or maintenance.

Plotter Models Available for Rent

Beyond the popular HP Z6 and HP Z9 for large-format color printing, we also offer additional HP plotter models that provide scanning, dual-roll printing, and high-speed output. 

HP T2600 Multifunction Printer

  • Key Features:

    • Prints up to 180 D/A1 pages per hour

    • Integrated 100-page output stacker for higher productivity

    • Built-in scanner and advanced collaboration tools

  • Best For: Construction offices that need rapid blueprint printing and scanning capabilities without tying up the budget for a permanent machine.

    HP PageWide XL 3600 MFP

  • Key Features:

    • 30% smaller footprint and quieter operation compared to similar devices

    • Fast 30-second first page out

    • Automated scanning and post-editing features for quick markups

  • Best For: Fast-paced environments that require both color and monochrome prints at high speed. It’s also great for engineering teams that regularly need to revise plans or create detailed technical documents.

What Do You Get with Your Plotter Rental?

Depending on the model and configuration, purchasing a new wide-format printer can easily cost $8,000–$20,000. 

Renting lets you pay a predictable monthly rate (often $325–$400) and invest your capital elsewhere. When you rent a plotter from Steven Enterprises, you get a complete, worry-free printing solution that includes:

  1. Full On-Site Setup & Installation: We’ll deliver the machine to your location, set it up, and walk you through the fundamentals — from loading paper and inks to performing basic troubleshooting.

  2. Ongoing Service & Support: If there’s a malfunction, our certified technicians will come on-site to fix it at no extra charge — unlike owning a printer, where post-warranty repairs are out-of-pocket. If persistent issues arise, we can swap the plotter so you’re not left waiting for lengthy repairs.

  3. Flexible Rental Terms: Whether you need the device for two months, six months, or a year, we tailor the rental period to match your project timeline. When your job is done, simply return the plotter. If your printing needs change, you can upgrade to a different model without the hassle of selling or replacing owned equipment.

  4. User Training: We’ll train your team on tasks like loading media, installing ink cartridges, and clearing paper jams. This will reduce downtime and maximize the value of your rental.

Note: Paper and ink are not included in the monthly fee. However, we can supply them at competitive rates, or you can purchase these supplies from your preferred vendor.

Explore a Plotter Rental for Your Next Project

With Steven Enterprises, you can focus on your project’s success, not the overhead of printer ownership. Whether you’re managing a movie set, running a construction site, or planning a one-time event, our HP plotter rentals make it easy to produce professional documents and graphics on demand. 

Call us now at (800) 491-8785 to discuss pricing, model availability, and rental terms or request a custom quote via our website. We’ll match you with the ideal Plotter and set up flexible rental terms tailored to your needs.

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PageWide Pro Series: Best Printer for Foam Boards & Yard Signs

PageWide Pro Series: Best Printer for Foam Boards & Yard Signs

The HP PageWide Pro Series is a versatile line of printers designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses and institutions looking to print on foam boards and yard signs efficiently. As a 2-in-1 machine, it offers you both roll-to-roll printing and rigid board printing — all in one device. 

This makes it an excellent alternative to purchasing separate machines such as the HP Latex or lamination printers.

At Steven Enterprises, we have helped architects, sign shops, and schools streamline operations by replacing outdated setups with the Pro Series — reducing their costs by 30% and also production bottlenecks by 50%.

Who Needs the PageWide Pro Series?

1. Small Sign Shops (e.g., Minuteman Press)

Small sign shops often face delays when outsourcing lamination for yard signs, election posters, or event displays. By printing directly onto Coroplast, the PageWide Pro Series eliminates extra lamination steps. 

It allows up to 4 boards per minute, ensuring tight deadlines are met without sacrificing quality. What’s more? This direct-to-board capability also reduces labor costs and gives full control over print output — from color accuracy to final finish.

For example, our Pro 8200 helped a Florida sign shop print Coroplast yard signs in-house, reducing their order fulfillment from 5 days to 6 hours.

2. Schools & Universities

Schools and universities often operate under tight budget constraints that make it challenging to purchase separate roll-to-roll and foam board printers. 

The HP PageWide Pro Series consolidates these needs into one cost-effective machine, supporting everything from event banners to academic models like science fair exhibits and architectural prototypes. 

This all-in-one approach allows institutions to stretch funds further while still producing vibrant, high-quality prints.

3. Federal Agencies

Federal agencies frequently need high-volume, tamper-resistant posters — such as public health notices and safety regulations — that exceed the capabilities of standard devices. 

With the HP PageWide XL Pro 10,000, you can print up to 7,500 sq ft per hour, producing more than 500 D-size posters each hour. 

This efficiency ensures immediate availability of critical information during emergencies or routine government operations.

In fact, a federal agency in Texas cut poster production time by 70% during hurricane season just by using the XL 10,000.

4. Architecture Firms

Architecture firms often spend hours manually mounting renderings onto foam boards, risking damage to delicate prints during the adhesive process. 

The HP PageWide Pro Series overcomes these challenges by enabling direct-to-board printing on foam boards up to 3/8″ thick, preserving every detail at 2400 DPI resolution. 

This approach allows you to produce 20 foam board renderings in 5 minutes instead of 2 hours, all while avoiding creases, air bubbles, or misalignment. The result? A flawless, professional finish that truly wows clients.

The Top 3 PageWide Pro Models to Choose From

If you need a reliable large format printer that can handle both high-volume roll-to-roll projects and direct-to-board jobs, the PageWide Pro Series has a model to suit your workload. 

Below are the three top HP PageWide XL Pro models and what sets them apart.

1. HP PageWide XL Pro 10,000

The HP PageWide XL Pro 10,000 is designed for large-scale printing and provides rapid output without compromising quality. 

Its robust construction and advanced technology meet the demands of high-volume sign shops and production facilities.

Key Features:

  • It prints up to 7,500 sq ft per hour (1,000 B1 posters/min), delivering quick turnarounds for bulk orders.
  • It uses 5-liter cartridges for sustained productivity, minimizing downtime from frequent ink changes.
  • Accommodates up to 6 rolls at once, allowing seamless transitions between different media types.

Ideal For: Enterprises needing continuous production for large signage, marketing materials, or architectural plans.

2. HP PageWide XL Pro 8200 Multifunction Printer

The HP PageWide XL Pro 8200 is a balanced option for businesses seeking productivity and versatility as it merges fast printing speeds with an integrated scanner.

It’s ideal for teams that require both production-grade prints and easy document digitization.

Key Features:

  • Prints at 5,400 sq ft per hour (30 A1 pages/min), keeping pace with demanding workflows.
  • Integrated scanner supports multifunction workflows and streamlines document handling.
  • Relies on 3-liter cartridges for moderate print runs, reducing refill frequency.
  • Supports up to 6 rolls, making it easy to switch between various paper types.

Ideal For: Organizations looking for a unified solution that covers printing and scanning in one device.

3. HP PageWide XL Pro 5200 Multifunction Printer

HP PageWide XL Proo 5200 Multi-function printer

The HP PageWide XL Pro 5200 is built for smaller or moderate production needs, balancing efficient performance with a compact design. 

Its cost-effective approach suits businesses that want professional-quality prints on a lower volume scale.

  • Delivers up to 4,300 sq ft per hour (20 A1 pages/min), handling a range of routine print jobs.
  • Operates on 1-liter cartridges, making it both economical and easy to maintain.
  • Holds up to 4 rolls, allowing quick swapping between multiple print media.

Ideal For: Small to mid-sized operations looking for high-quality output without the footprint or capacity of larger models.

So, Is the PageWide Pro Series Worth the Upgrade?

Upgrading to the Pro Series requires an investment of about $10,000 more than standard models, but it offers significant long-term savings. With direct-to-board printing, there’s no need for separate lamination — yielding annual savings estimated at $12,000 on adhesive materials.

The Pro Series also delivers a 15% faster turnaround compared to outsourcing, reducing both labor costs and downtime. 

These enhanced capabilities, coupled with lower operating costs and increased productivity, make the upgrade worthwhile

Discover Your Savings with the PageWide Pro Series

Contact Steven Enterprises now at 800-491-8785 for a personalized consultation, or fill out our contact form for a free cost comparison analysis and discover how much you could save. We’ll help you choose the right solution to boost your productivity and reduce operating costs.

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Best Large Format Printers for Construction & General Contractors in 2025

Best Large Format Printers for Construction & General Contractors in 2024

In the dynamic world of construction, having the ability to quickly and accurately produce high-quality prints directly on the job site isn’t just convenient—it’s crucial. 

For general contractors, large format printers are indispensable tools that ensure the seamless flow of information, from architectural designs to complex construction plans.

In this blog post, we’ll review the top large format printers that Steven Enterprises Equipment and Account Specialists recommend to superintendents and construction project managers. You’ll learn the fundamental differences in the latest models on the market in 2025. 

Why General Contractors Need On-Site Printers

Unlike architectural offices where plans are initially drafted, construction sites are where these plans come to life—and often change. 

The ability to perform “red line markups” and send immediate feedback to architects is essential for the timely progression of any project. 

With a large format printer on site, general contractors can handle these tasks efficiently, reducing downtime and avoiding costly delays.

Top Features General Contractors Should Look for in Large Format Printers

  • Speed and Efficiency: Time is money, and in construction, delays can be costly. Printers that can deliver quick prints without sacrificing quality are crucial.
  • Durability and Portability: Given the harsh conditions on many job sites, printers need to be both durable and portable. A compact design ensures they fit within the confined spaces of a job site trailer.
  • Ease of Use: Printers should be user-friendly, allowing quick setup and operation by various subcontractors, including electricians and plumbers who may need access to updated plans.
  • High-Quality Output: Detailed prints are necessary to accurately convey complex construction details and ensure all team members are on the same page.

Best Large Format Printers for General Contractors in 2025

HP DesignJet T-2600 MFPDesignJet T2600 Front

Created for highly efficient teams with the most compact, quiet MFP, the HP DesignJet T2600 is excellent for construction sites. It supports collaboration with a smart interface and access to shared folders. 

Since tight deadlines are a crucial part of the construction industry, this printer has become a top choice. It has the fastest print speed and the only automatic print stacking. 

AEC, GIS, and MCAD professionals who want to print maps, technical drawings, posters, and renders with precise, accurate line quality and crisp textDynamic security enabled printer.

Check out the latest HP T-2600 here.

KIP 900 Series

Ideal for environments demanding high durability and excellent color quality, the KIP 900 series withstands the rigors of a construction site while providing outstanding print quality.

From technical documents to vibrant posters, this printer has it all. The KIP 900’s toner-based system combines affordability, speed, and waterproof quality, making it a robust choice for all types of AEC applications.

Check out the latest KIP 900 Series here.

OCE Plotwave 450 SlantedOce (Canon) PlotWave Series

With a user-friendly interface and robust security features, the PlotWave series is designed for high productivity and operational ease, crucial for some privately-owned construction settings.

Designed to deliver reliable, high-quality prints, the PlotWave 7500 stands out from the other large format printers listed because of it’s six rolls of media. For some job sites with lots of different contractors, this is a game-changer for their productivity.

Check out the latest Plotwave OCE printers here.

Best Overall: HP DesignJet XL 3800 Multi-Function PrinterThe innovative HP DesignJet XL 3800 Large Format Printer, showcasing its superior color printing capabilities.

The evolution of color printing over the last five years has been nothing short of revolutionary, especially with the advent of the HP DesignJet XL 3800 Large Format Printer.

This breakthrough technology has significantly lowered the financial barrier to high-quality color printing for engineering firms. In turn, marking a departure from the era when such capabilities commanded a price tag upwards of $100,000.

With features like enhanced printing speeds, batch scanning, and a compact design, it addresses all the needs of construction firms. Especially for those looking for reliability, efficiency, and a smaller environmental footprint.

This is why we determined the HP DesignJet XL 3800 to be the overall winner for the best large format printer for the construction industry.

Read more: New HP XL DesignJet 3800 Multi-Function Printer: A Comparison to Black & White Models

Streamline Your Construction Projects with the Right Large Format Printer

Embracing technology on the job site isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about staying ahead. By equipping your site with a capable large format printer, you ensure that your construction project runs smoother, stays on budget, and avoids unnecessary delays.

Ready to Upgrade?

Discover how the latest large format printers can transform your construction site’s efficiency. 

Contact Steven Enterprises today to explore the best printing solutions for your needs.