Looking for a good printer for photos and artwork. What’s the best option if you want to get into photo printing beyond a few snapshots. Printer quality vs ink prices – what’s the best combination? [Bonus end notes: What about the PRO-1000 replacement?]
Covering a range of printers, there’s a clear leader if ink costs matter. Will it help improve your photography? Is it good enough for ‘serious’ printing?
Printers discussed [links to detailed reviews and videos]
Dye based: [cartridge] PRO-200
Dye based [ink tank] G550
Pigment ink: PRO-300
P700
Hybrid ink set [ink tank]: ET-8550 | ET-8500
17″ width: P900
P5300/P5370
PRO-1000
Canon TC-20M [24″]
00:00 Start
00:25 A best printer?
01:22 Types of review
03:53 Canon PRO-200, 300
04:10 Pigment inks?
04:50 17″ P5000/5300/5370
05:32 Even bigger printers
05:55 Canon ink tank printers
07:14 The cost of ink carts – does it matter
08:33 And the winner is: ET8550
09:10 Art prints
09:25 Any downsides?
10:25 Why did I pick this printer?
13:24 Not big enough? PRO-1000 replacement?
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More Information:
When it comes to serious photo printing, selecting the right printer is crucial for achieving high-quality results that match your creative vision. Here’s an overview of important considerations and some top choices in the realm of photo printers for serious photographers:
Key Considerations
Print Quality: Look for printers that use advanced inkjet technology capable of delivering high resolution and vibrant colors. Key factors such as DPI (dots per inch) and color depth will determine the quality of prints.
Ink System: Printers with dedicated photo inks (such as pigment inks) tend to produce better color accuracy and longevity. Some printers use more than four colors (CMYK) which may include additional inks like light cyan, light magenta, or specialized black inks to broaden the color gamut.
Media Compatibility: A good photo printer should handle various media types, including glossy, matte, fine art papers, and canvas. This versatility allows photographers to choose the best surfaces for their work.
Size and Format: Consider the maximum print size the printer can handle. If you plan on creating large prints, look for printers that can accommodate larger formats (e.g., 13"x19" or larger).
Connectivity: Look for printers with multiple connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and even cloud printing capabilities, to allow more flexibility when printing from different devices.
Ease of Use: User-friendly software, LCD screens for easy navigation, and an intuitive interface can make the printing process smoother, particularly for larger projects.
- Cost of Ownership: Consider not just the initial price of the printer, but also the cost of replacement ink cartridges and paper over time. Some printers might have a lower initial cost but higher per-print costs because of expensive ink.
Top Recommended Printers for Photo Printing
Epson SureColor P700:
- Ink System: Uses 10-color UltraChrome PRO10 pigment ink for vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- Print Size: Up to 13” wide.
- Features: Excellent color accuracy, supports a wide range of media types, and has a robust software suite.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000:
- Ink System: 12-color LUCIA PRO ink system that delivers striking colors and smooth gradations.
- Print Size: Up to 17” wide.
- Features: High color density, superior print quality, and ability to handle various media.
HP Envy Photo 7855:
- Ink System: Uses standard HP cartridges but provides feature set suited for all-in-one needs, including photo printing.
- Print Size: Up to 8.5” x 14”.
- Features: Good balance between performance and cost, great for household photo printing needs.
Canon PIXMA PRO-100:
- Ink System: 8-ink dye system that provides excellent output with rich colors.
- Print Size: Up to 13”x19”.
- Features: Affordable considering quality, Wi-Fi connectivity, and easy-to-use software.
- Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000:
- Ink System: 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system.
- Print Size: Up to 13”x19”.
- Features: Affordable price point with excellent print quality for both color and black-and-white images.
Conclusion
For serious photo printing, it is essential to invest in a printer that offers high-quality outputs, a variety of media options, and longevity. Depending on your budget and needs, any of the printers mentioned above can provide excellent performance for your photographic endeavors. As you get into photo printing, don’t forget the importance of calibration, as consistent results require a well-calibrated workflow from camera to print.