Technical Printers Archives - Steven Enterprises

Posted on January 23, 2026December 13, 2025 by abidemisblog

Top Large Format Printer Brands in 2026 (& Why You’d Choose Them)

Large format printers are crucial across numerous industries, from architecture and engineering to signage production and design firms.

Each business faces unique challenges and printing demands, which is why multiple large format printer brands have emerged as top choices in today’s market.

At Steven Enterprises, we’ve supported businesses with equipment purchases for over three generations. We continually educate ourselves about the latest models released by various brands.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top five large format printer brands in 2026, highlight their best-selling models, and explain which applications each brand excels at serving.

1. HP: The Technical Printing Powerhouse

HP has long been renowned for technical large format printers, consistently releasing new models with innovations in speed and AutoCAD technology.

These printers have become indispensable for fields requiring detailed drawings and plans, particularly architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing.

Why Choose HP?

HP printers excel as the “one-stop shop” for AEC firms.

They handle everything from technical blueprints to short-run graphics, making them remarkably versatile for businesses that need both precision technical prints and occasional marketing materials.

The HP DesignJet line is backed by HP’s extensive service network and robust security features which is critical for firms handling sensitive project documents.

Top HP Models for 2026

HP DesignJet XL 3800 MFP

The XL 3800 is HP’s sweet spot for medium-sized AEC operations. It produces 6 D-sized color prints per minute with excellent CAD line quality and vibrant graphics delivered by HP’s pigment-based inks.

The multifunction capability adds scanning and copying, making it a complete document management solution.

Ideal For: Architectural, engineering, and construction firms printing below 5,000 square feet per month who need superb CAD line quality at a competitive price point.

HP DesignJet XT950 MFP

The XT950 is an entry point into HP’s professional MFP lineup, offering reliable performance for smaller teams or satellite offices.

It balances affordability with HP’s renowned print quality and ease of use.

Ideal For: Smaller AEC firms or branch offices needing occasional large format printing with scanning capabilities.

2. Canon & Océ: For Technical Excellence + Graphics Innovation

Canon’s acquisition of Océ in 2009 created a printing powerhouse that combines technical document expertise with cutting-edge graphics capabilities.

Today, the Canon/Océ brand offers solutions spanning from traditional AEC applications to high-end UV graphics production.

Why Choose Canon/Océ?

The Canon/Océ portfolio is unique in offering both worlds: proven technical plotters for AEC workflows and advanced UV printers for graphics production.

This versatility makes Canon/Océ an excellent choice for businesses serving diverse markets or planning to expand their service offerings.

Top Canon/Océ Models for 2026

Océ PlotWave T35

The PlotWave T35 continues to serve as a reliable workhorse for AEC firms in 2026.

Built on the proven 6th generation PlotWave platform, it features Océ’s patented Radiant Fusing technology for instant-on printing with no warm-up time and exceptional energy efficiency.

Ideal For: Small to medium AEC workgroups with moderate technical document printing needs who value reliability and eco-friendly operation.

Canon Colorado M-Series

For businesses focused on outdoor graphics and signage production, the Colorado M-Series gives Canon’s innovative UVgel technology with FLXfinish+ capabilities.

These printers excel at producing durable, weather-resistant graphics with exceptional color quality.

Ideal For: Print service providers, sign shops, and marketing agencies producing outdoor signage, vehicle wraps, and retail displays.

3. Mutoh: The Outdoor Graphics Specialist

Mutoh has built its reputation on delivering reliable, high-quality printers specifically engineered for outdoor signage and specialty applications.

Their XpertJet series combines versatility with durability, making them favorites among sign shops and print service providers.

Why Choose Mutoh?

Mutoh printers are purpose-built for businesses focused on outdoor signage, vehicle graphics, and sticker production.

Their ink formulations are optimized for outdoor durability, and their print-and-cut models integrate perfectly into sign production workflows.

The brand’s commitment to specialty applications means you’re getting technology refined specifically for outdoor graphics, not a general-purpose printer adapted for signage work.

Top Mutoh Models for 2026

Mutoh XpertJet C641SR Pro

The C641SR Pro is a compact print-and-cut solution ideal for businesses producing decals, labels, and smaller-format signage. The integrated cutting capability eliminates the need for a separate cutter, streamlining your production workflow.

Ideal For: Sign shops and print service providers specializing in custom decals, vehicle graphics, and indoor/outdoor stickers.

Mutoh XpertJet 1682SR Pro

For larger-format signage production, the 1682SR Pro provides professional results up to 64 inches wide.

The printer handles a wide range of substrates and produces vibrant, durable prints suitable for long-term outdoor exposure.

Ideal For: High-volume sign shops producing banners, vehicle wraps, and outdoor advertising displays.

4. KIP: The Toner Technology Leader

KIP has established itself as the premier manufacturer of toner-based large format printers.

Their LED toner technology provides exceptional quality with lower running costs compared to inkjet systems, making them extremely popular for high-volume environments.

Why Choose KIP?

Toner-based printing offers several distinct advantages for the right applications.

KIP printers:

Produce waterproof prints immediately (no drying time required)
Offer faster print speeds for black-and-white documents
And typically cost less per square foot than comparable inkjet systems

For businesses printing 10,000+ square feet monthly, the cost savings of toner technology can be substantial, approximately half the per-square-foot cost of ink-based printing.

Top KIP Models for 2026

KIP 71 Series

The KIP 71 Series represents the foundation of KIP’s toner printer lineup. These monochrome systems deliver exceptional speed and reliability for technical document workflows, making them ideal for busy AEC operations.

Ideal For: Architecture and engineering firms with high volumes of black-and-white technical prints who prioritize speed and cost-effectiveness.

KIP 700 Color Series

When you need both technical documents and color graphics, the KIP 700 Color Series delivers.

These printers combine KIP’s toner technology benefits with full-color capability, opening up applications beyond pure technical printing.

Ideal For: AEC firms and reprographics shops that need both technical prints and color output for presentations, marketing materials, and client deliverables.

Choose the Right Large Format Printer Brand for Your Business

With five excellent brands offering distinct advantages, how do you select the right large format printer for your operation?

There isn’t a single “best” large format printer brand in 2026, the right choice depends entirely on your specific applications, print volumes, and workflow requirements.

Choose HP if you need versatile equipment that handles both technical and graphics applications with industry-leading support.
Choose Canon/Océ if you want proven AEC technology (PlotWave) or are expanding into high-end UV graphics production (Colorado).
Choose Mutoh if outdoor signage and specialty graphics are your primary focus and you value purpose-built equipment.
Choose KIP if high-volume production and lowest cost per square foot are your top priorities.

Want to Find Your Perfect Large Format Printer?

Our printing specialists have helped hundreds of businesses navigate these decisions, and we’re here to help you too.

We’ll discuss your specific applications, volume requirements, and budget to recommend the ideal equipment for your operation, whether that’s HP, Canon/Océ, Mutoh, KIP, or a combination of brands.

Posted on August 23, 2024August 9, 2024 by laylalameijer — 1 Comment

3 Large Format Printer Maintenance Tips to Avoid Needing Repairs

Maintaining your large format printer is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently and to avoid costly repairs.

To ensure your large format printer operates at its best and to reduce the likelihood of disruptions in your workflow, most businesses we work with find that scheduling one annual preventative maintenance check-up is sufficient. This is typically even when using the printer at high volumes.

In this blog, we’ll review 3 essential maintenance tips that your team should likely do to keep your large format printer in top condition and minimize the need for service calls.

3 Maintenance Tips to Avoid Large Format Printer Repairs

1. Run Your Printer Every 2-4 Weeks Minimum

Regular printer use is essential, especially for inkjet models, to prevent the ink from drying out.

Why? If a printer remains idle for too long, the ink can harden, resembling a crayon-like consistency that clogs the lines and print heads, leading to significant issues.

Many businesses had this issue during COVID because they were not in the office. As a result, their print heads needed to be replaced. Which cost businesses anywhere from $80 to $500, not including the service call fee of $200 to $400.

We recommend you run your printer at least once every week or month, depending on your printing needs.

PRO TIP: Most printers have a “demo print” on file that you can select. This print only uses 5%-10% coverage but has just sufficient enough that your lines clean out.

Can’t find your demo print? Give us a call at 800-491-8785 to have a printing expert help you locate the demo print sample on your large format printer.

2. Monitoring Ink Expiration Dates

Monitoring ink expiration is also vital for maintaining print quality and preventing damage to your printer.

Ink typically has a shelf life of 12 to 18 months, and most printers will alert you when the ink is nearing or has passed its expiration date.

Although you might be tempted to use expired ink for a few weeks or even months, doing so can risk compromising print quality and potentially harming your printer.

It’s common practice to purchase four sets of inks at once and reorder when supplies start to run low, ensuring you always have fresh ink on hand.

PRO TIP: To keep track of the expiration dates of your ink, plug it into your printer. The bar code will be scanned and then remind you when your ink is about to expire.

3. Keep Your Printer Loading Area Clean

Lastly, maintaining printer cleanliness is essential for all types of printers.

For toner-based printers, it’s important to clean up residual powder regularly. Inkjet printers, while generally less messy, still benefit from regular cleaning to prevent operational issues.

How to Get Long-term Use out of Your Large Format Printer

In addition to the maintenance tips mentioned above, we always recommend our customers schedule annual preventative maintenance.

During this time, a professional large-format printing expert will flush the lines fully and run tests on the machine to ensure every feature is functioning correctly. This maintenance is separate from software updates and requires an in-person visit.

Explore Our Affordable Service Contracts

Consider signing up for a service contract with Steven Enterprises to keep your large-format printer operating smoothly and reduce the likelihood of disruptions in your workflow.

Our contracts typically include one maintenance check per year and are often more cost-effective than paying for one-time services. They can be paid monthly or annually, and every client is assigned an inside representative who assists with all supply needs.

For those with higher print demands, ask about our Cost Per Copy (CPC) contract to get even better rates on your supplies.

Posted on July 5, 2024July 2, 2024 by laylalameijer — 1 Comment

Toner vs. Ink Large Format Printers: Cost and Usage Comparison for Businesses

Choosing the right printing technology is crucial for optimizing your business’s operations and budget.

One of the primary distinctions in large format printers is the type of printing technology they utilize—toner vs. ink large format printers.

So, if you’re just beginning your buying journey for a large format printer, the most critical question to answer early on is, “Should I be shopping for a toner-based large format printer and an ink-based large format printer?”

In this blog post, we’ll explain the main differences, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs.

Understanding the Core Differences Between Toner vs. Ink Large Format Printers

What Sets Toner Apart from Ink?

Toner and ink serve the same fundamental purpose—creating images and text on paper—but their methods and outcomes vary greatly.

Inkjet printers use liquid ink sprayed in microscopic droplets onto paper, ideal for high-detail graphic outputs.

Conversely, laser printers use fine powder toner that creates durable and fast-drying prints through a heat transfer process.

Understanding Composition & Quality Differences

Ink formulations typically include a blend of dyes or pigments and various additives that enhance printing quality and maintain ink fluidity.

On the other hand, toner is a polymer-based powder that offers precision and efficiency and is especially suited for high-volume printing tasks.

Evaluating the Advantages and Disadvantages of Ink and Toner

Advantages of Using Ink in Large Format Printers:

Cost-Effectiveness for Lower Volumes: Inkjet printers generally have a lower upfront cost than ink-based printers, making them ideal for businesses with less intensive print needs.
Superior Image Quality: Inkjets produce vibrant images with excellent detail, perfect for artistic and photographic applications.

Challenges with Ink-based large format printers

Maintenance Needs: Ink can dry out or clog the printing mechanisms if not used at least weekly, requiring regular maintenance. During COVID, many businesses had to purchase a brand new print head since repairing a clogged print head is almost impossible.
Higher Cost Per Print: While ink cartridges are cheaper, they yield fewer pages than toner, increasing the overall cost per print in high-volume environments.

Choosing Between Toner vs. Ink Large Format Printers

The decision between toner and ink ultimately hinges on your specific printing requirements:

For Low Volume Needs = Ink-based printers

If your monthly print needs are below 10,000 square feet, inkjet large format printers might be the more cost-effective choice despite the higher cost per square foot ($0.025) due to their lower upfront costs and high-quality outputs suitable for detailed designs.

For Higher Volume Requirements = Toner-based printers

Toner-based large-format printers are more advantageous for volumes between 10,000 and 20,000 square feet per month. Toner’s cost efficiency ($0.011 per square foot) becomes evident in larger-scale operations, offering significant long-term savings.

To be clear, it’s rare for a business to have the minimum print volume required for a toner-based printer. For most companies in Southern California, purchasing this machine doesn’t make financial sense since the upfront costs are much higher.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Selecting between ink and toner for your large format printing needs depends on various factors, including your typical print volume, the quality of prints required, and overall budget considerations. Both ink and toner have distinct advantages that can effectively serve different business needs.

To navigate these choices and find the perfect match for your business, consider consulting with a large format printing expert.

At Steven Enterprises, we specialize in guiding businesses through these decisions, ensuring you invest wisely in technology that meets your specific requirements.

Book your free consultation by either filling out this form to have our experts contact you or calling us to talk to someone immediately at (800)491-8785.

Posted on February 22, 2024February 22, 2024 by plottersadmin — 1 Comment

Choosing Between Graphic and Technical Large Format Printers for Your Business

In today’s professional printing landscape, the choice between Graphic Large Format Printers and Technical Large Format Printers presents a pivotal decision for businesses.

Each category caters to distinct needs across various sectors, from marketing to engineering.

Our authorized service technicians at Steven Enterprises delve into the essence of these printers, highlighting their unique attributes to guide you in making an informed decision for your business.

Understanding Graphic and Technical Large Format Printers

The divide between Graphic and Technical Large Format Printers is not just about the output; it’s about catering to the specific needs of different industries.

Graphic printers are the go-to for producing visually captivating materials for advertising, photography, and entertainment.

In contrast, Technical printers are designed for precision and accuracy, serving as essential tools for architecture, engineering, and construction professionals.

Types of Businesses Who Use Each Printer

The utilization of these printers varies significantly across industries.

Graphic Large Format Printers are preferred by sectors that demand high-quality visual presentations, such as:

Marketing agencies
Photography studios
Graphic design firms

On the other hand, Technical Large Format Printers are indispensable in fields requiring detailed drawings and plans, like:

Architecture
Engineering
Manufacturing

Key Differences Graphic vs. Technical Printers

1. Functionality and Application

When it comes to functionality, Graphic Large Format Printers shine with their ability to produce vibrant, detailed outputs, making them ideal for creating banners, posters, and high-quality photographs.

Technical Large Format Printers excel in producing precise line drawings and blueprints, prioritizing accuracy and clarity for technical documents.

2. Image Quality and Output Space Comparison

While Technical Large Format Printers boast higher resolutions for crisp and clear document reproduction, Graphic printers offer versatility in media types and design flexibility.

This difference underscores the importance of choosing a printer based on the specific output requirements of your business.

3. Cost Considerations

Evaluating the cost involves looking beyond the initial purchase price to consider long-term operational expenses.

Technical printers, though potentially higher in initial cost, tend to offer more economical long-term use due to their media compatibility.

Conversely, Graphic printers might seem more budget-friendly upfront but can lead to higher ongoing costs because of the diverse media they accommodate.

4. Speed and Efficiency

Recent technological advancements have minimized the speed disparities between Graphic and Technical Large Format Printers. Today’s technical printers match the rapid output of graphic models, ensuring businesses can maintain high productivity without sacrificing print quality.

Need Help Choosing the Right Large Format Printer for Your Business?

Selecting the right Large Format Printer is crucial for aligning with your business’s specific needs, whether prioritizing visual impact or precision. By assessing factors like image quality, cost, brand reputation, and speed, you can make a choice that propels your business forward.

For personalized advice on selecting the ideal Large Format Printer for your business, our team of experts is ready to assist. Contact us today to enhance your printing capabilities to new heights.

If you need help choosing the right printers for your business, contact our team of experts here or give us a call at (800)491-8785.