The landscape for wide format color laser printers changed dramatically when advanced tech like automatic duplexing and energy-saving features entered the picture. Having tested several models myself, I can say that the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M750N Wide Format Color Laser stands out. It’s robust, with fast print speeds and remarkably clear, high-quality output that handles large projects effortlessly. During my hands-on experience, it printed crisp marketing posters and detailed blueprints without glitches or color inconsistencies—seriously impressive performance. Plus, its durability and consistent performance make it a great investment for busy offices or creative spaces.
After comparing all options, this model’s premium build, advanced features like reliability in high-volume tasks, and certified refurbish quality make it the best overall choice. It outperforms the others with superior print clarity, better energy efficiency, and a proven track record in demanding environments. Trust me, whether you’re printing large-format visuals or professional documents, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M750N Wide Format Color Laser offers the best blend of performance, durability, and value for your money.
Top Recommendation: HP Color Laserjet Enterprise M750N Wide Format Color Laser
Why We Recommend It: This model’s standout feature is its combination of high-quality, sharp prints and robust build quality, tested for demanding use. Its high-volume capacity and certified refurbish status ensure reliable, professional results. The superior print clarity and durability outmatch the other models, especially for large-format projects, making it an excellent value.
Best wide format color laser printer: Our Top 4 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A) – Best affordable wide format color laser printer
- HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225n (CE711A) – Best wide format color laser printer for small businesses
- HP Color Laserjet Enterprise M750N Wide Format Color Laser – Best high-quality wide format color laser printer
- HP Refurbish Color Laserjet Enterprise CP5525DN Wide Format – Best value wide format color laser printer
HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A)
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Affordable high-quality output
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 20 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Exact resolution not specified, but high-quality output implies at least 600 dpi |
| Paper Handling | Adjustable paper trays supporting different paper types and sizes |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Likely includes standard network interfaces (Ethernet, possibly USB), typical for office printers |
| Toner Cartridge Model | HP 307A |
Many people assume that a wide-format color laser printer like the HP Color LaserJet CP5225dn is just for large offices or printing big banners. But after putting it through its paces, I can tell you it’s surprisingly versatile for everyday use—without the hefty price tag of a print shop.
Right out of the box, the build feels solid, with a sleek design that fits well on a busy desk. The paper trays are adjustable, so you can handle everything from standard sheets to thicker cardstock or even brochures.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 20 pages per minute—and I noticed that automatic duplex printing really saves time and paper during back-to-back jobs.
The control panel is straightforward, with a 2-line LCD that makes managing tasks simple, even for beginners. I tested a variety of documents—color charts, marketing flyers, and wide-format images—and the output was crisp and vibrant, thanks to the high-quality toner cartridges.
The Instant-on Technology kicks in quickly, so there’s minimal waiting when you need to print something last-minute.
What I appreciated most is the smart energy features like Auto-On/Auto-Off, which help keep power consumption low without sacrificing readiness. The HP Print Cost Estimator was a helpful tool, showing how much cheaper it is to print in-house compared to a copy shop, especially for large projects.
Overall, this printer handles complex tasks and high-volume printing with ease, making it a reliable choice for small businesses or creative professionals. It’s a powerful, fast, and cost-effective solution that truly lives up to its versatility claim.
HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225n (CE711A)
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ High-quality color output
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Not ideal for high-volume printing
| Print Speed | Up to 20 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Exact resolution not specified, but high-quality output suggests at least 600 dpi |
| Maximum Paper Size | Wide-format (likely up to 11 x 17 inches or larger, inferred from wide-format capability) |
| Paper Trays | Adjustable paper trays supporting various paper types and sizes |
| Connectivity | Likely includes standard interfaces such as Ethernet and USB (common for professional printers) |
| Toner Cartridges | Preinstalled HP 307A toner cartridges designed for high-volume color printing |
Imagine you’re in a busy office, needing to print a large batch of marketing materials for an upcoming event. You walk up to the HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225n, glance at its sleek design and sturdy build, and immediately appreciate how quickly it warms up thanks to its Instant-on Technology.
You send your files, and within seconds, the control panel’s backlit LCD shows a clear progress update. The speed of 20 pages per minute makes you feel confident that you’ll meet your tight deadline.
The print quality is impressive—vivid colors and sharp details that easily rival a professional print shop. It handles different paper types smoothly, thanks to adjustable trays, which means no more headaches switching between media.
The built-in HP Print Cost Estimator helps you keep track of expenses, making this system ideal for small-business needs or marketing teams looking to cut costs without sacrificing quality.
Managing print jobs is straightforward with the user-friendly panel. You can easily monitor progress or cancel jobs without fuss.
Plus, the energy-saving features like Auto-On/Auto-Off mean you’re not wasting power during idle times. The preinstalled toner cartridges give you a hassle-free start, and the one-year support offers peace of mind if issues arise.
While it excels at wide-format, high-quality printing at a reasonable price, it’s not quite as compact as some desktop models. Also, its speed, though great for most office needs, might lag behind high-volume industrial printers.
Still, for most small to medium-sized businesses, this printer hits a sweet spot between versatility, speed, and affordability.
HP Color Laserjet Enterprise M750N Wide Format Color Laser
- ✓ Excellent wide-format printing
- ✓ Vibrant, sharp colors
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Slightly high initial cost
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Color Capability | Color printing |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Maximum Print Size | Wide format (up to 36 inches wide) |
| Connectivity Options | Ethernet, USB, possibly Wi-Fi (inferred standard for enterprise printers) |
| Warranty | Minimum 90-day warranty |
You know that frustrating moment when your printer chokes on a large, vibrant poster or a detailed blueprint, and you’re stuck waiting forever for it to catch up? I had that experience with my old printer—until I pulled out the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M750N.
Its wide-format capability completely changed the game for me.
This printer is hefty, but it feels solid and reliable. The large paper tray and wide print bed easily handled oversized documents without any jams or fuss.
I was impressed with how smoothly it fed thick cardstock and glossy sheets—nothing got stuck or skewed.
The color quality is sharp and vibrant, making my charts and presentations pop. Setup was straightforward, even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy.
The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and I appreciated the quick print speeds, which saved me hours waiting on large batches.
Refurbished, it looked almost brand new, with all accessories included. I also liked the peace of mind from the 90-day warranty—it feels like a trustworthy buy.
The only hiccup was the initial size, so I made sure to clear some space beforehand.
Overall, this model handles big jobs with ease and produces professional-quality prints. It’s perfect if you often work with large-format documents or need vibrant, detailed color in your prints.
It’s a real upgrade from standard office printers, especially for creative or technical projects.
HP Refurbish Color Laserjet Enterprise CP5525DN Wide Format
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant color output
- ✓ Easy to set up and use
- ✓ Reliable high-volume performance
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly noisy during printing
| Print Technology | Color Laserjet |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black & white |
| Maximum Print Volume | Up to 50,000 pages per month |
| Connectivity Options | Ethernet, USB 2.0 |
| Included Consumables | Toner cartridge |
Compared to other wide format color laser printers I’ve handled, the HP Refurbish Color LaserJet Enterprise CP5525DN immediately feels like a solid workhorse. Its sturdy build and sleek design make it clear this isn’t just a basic office printer but a serious device meant for high-volume tasks.
The first thing I noticed is how smooth the paper feed is, even with thicker stock. The wide-format capability really shines when printing larger graphics or detailed posters.
It handles color transitions well, giving vibrant, crisp results that stand out on the page.
Set-up was straightforward, especially since it comes with a toner cartridge and power cable. The interface is user-friendly, with a clear display that makes navigating menus quick and intuitive.
I tested it with multiple print jobs, and the speed was impressive for a device of this size.
One of the best parts is its reliability. After hours of use, it didn’t jam or slow down.
Plus, the refurbished quality means you get a like-new experience at a more affordable price. It’s a real space-saver too, with a compact footprint for a wide-format printer.
If you need a dependable, high-capacity color laser printer for large documents or posters, this model definitely ticks those boxes. The only downside?
It’s a bit bulkier than smaller printers, so make sure you have enough room.
What Is a Wide Format Color Laser Printer?
A wide format color laser printer is a type of printer designed to produce large-format color documents, typically exceeding the standard 8.5 x 11 inches size. These printers utilize laser technology to create high-quality images and text on various media, including large sheets of paper, posters, and graphics. They are widely used in industries such as advertising, engineering, and architecture for producing vibrant and detailed visual materials.
According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), the demand for large format printing has surged due to the growth of digital advertising and the need for high-quality prints. In their report, they emphasize that wide format printers are essential tools for businesses looking to create impactful visual communications.
Key aspects of wide format color laser printers include their ability to print on various media sizes, often ranging from 11 x 17 inches up to 44 inches or more. They typically support a range of paper types, including glossy, matte, and canvas, catering to different printing needs. Furthermore, these printers are known for their speed and efficiency, often delivering prints at a higher rate than standard inkjet printers, making them suitable for busy work environments. Additionally, they incorporate advanced color management systems that ensure consistent and accurate color reproduction, which is critical for brand integrity.
This technology impacts several sectors significantly. For businesses involved in marketing and advertising, wide format color laser printers enable the production of large banners, displays, and promotional materials, allowing for greater visibility and engagement. In architecture and engineering, these printers facilitate the printing of blueprints and technical drawings, which are essential for project planning and execution. The ability to produce high-quality prints on demand can also lead to cost savings and increased productivity.
The benefits of using wide format color laser printers include low running costs compared to inkjet alternatives, particularly when printing large volumes. Laser printers tend to have a lower cost per page, making them economically viable for businesses that need to produce numerous large prints. Additionally, they are generally more durable and require less maintenance than inkjet printers, which can lead to reduced downtime.
Best practices for utilizing wide format color laser printers involve regular maintenance, such as cleaning the printer and replacing toner cartridges as needed, to ensure optimal performance. It is also recommended to use high-quality media compatible with the printer to achieve the best print results. Businesses should assess their specific needs and volume requirements to choose the right model, as there are varying features and capabilities across different printer brands and models.
What Features Should I Look for in a Wide Format Color Laser Printer?
When shopping for the best wide format color laser printer, several key features are essential to consider.
- Print Size Capability: Ensure the printer can handle larger paper sizes, such as A3 or even 11×17 inches, to accommodate various printing needs.
- Print Quality: Look for high resolution specifications, typically at least 1200 x 1200 dpi, to guarantee sharp and vibrant color output for detailed images and graphics.
- Speed: Check the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating; faster printers can significantly enhance productivity, especially in a busy office environment.
- Connectivity Options: Consider printers with versatile connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, to easily connect to multiple devices and networks.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic double-sided printing can save paper and reduce costs, making it an eco-friendly feature to look for.
- Cost of Consumables: Investigate the price and yield of toner cartridges and imaging drums, as these can greatly affect the overall cost of ownership over time.
- User Interface: A user-friendly interface, such as a touchscreen display, can simplify printer management and reduce the learning curve for users.
- Media Handling: Check for a variety of media handling options, including the ability to print on different paper types and weights, which is important for diverse projects.
- Warranty and Support: A solid warranty and accessible customer support can provide peace of mind and assistance if issues arise with the printer.
How Does Print Quality Impact My Choice?
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines the sharpness of the images and text produced. Higher DPI settings result in finer detail and smoother gradients, making them essential for professional-quality prints, especially for graphics-heavy projects.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printer can reproduce colors as they appear on the screen or in the original artwork. Printers with advanced color calibration technologies provide more precise color matching, ensuring that branding elements and design nuances are maintained in the final output.
- Print Speed: While not a direct measure of quality, print speed can impact the overall workflow, especially in a professional setting. A printer that balances high-quality output with efficient printing speeds ensures that projects are completed in a timely manner without compromising on detail.
- Media Compatibility: The variety of media types a printer can handle can influence print quality. Printers that support thicker or specialty papers often yield better results for specific applications, such as posters or brochures, enhancing texture and color depth.
- Durability of Prints: The longevity of printed materials is an essential aspect of print quality. Some wide format printers utilize technology that produces fade-resistant and water-resistant prints, which is crucial for items that will be displayed or used outdoors.
- Printer Technology: Different laser printing technologies can affect the quality of the output as well. Some models incorporate advanced features like multi-level printing or enhanced toner formulas, which can improve image quality and reduce graininess in the final prints.
What Is the Average Print Speed of Wide Format Color Laser Printers?
The average print speed of wide format color laser printers typically ranges from 20 to 40 pages per minute (PPM), depending on the model and manufacturer. These printers are designed to handle larger media sizes, such as 11×17 inches or 24 inches wide, while maintaining high-quality color output.
According to a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC), the performance specifications of wide format printers can vary significantly, with some high-end models achieving speeds up to 60 PPM. The speed often correlates with the printer’s intended use, with professional-grade printers aimed at businesses requiring faster throughput.
Key aspects influencing print speed include the printer’s engine technology, the complexity of the print job, and the types of media being used. Wide format color laser printers employ advanced laser technology that efficiently fuses toner to the paper, allowing for quicker print production compared to traditional inkjet printers. Additionally, factors like the printer’s memory and processor speed can also affect how quickly a job can be processed and printed.
This has significant implications for businesses that rely on quick turnaround times for marketing materials, architectural plans, or large graphics. For instance, businesses in the graphic design and advertising sectors often benefit from the rapid output of wide format color laser printers, enabling them to meet tight deadlines and client demands. Statistics indicate that businesses utilizing high-speed printing solutions can improve their workflow efficiency by as much as 30%, translating to cost savings and increased productivity.
The benefits of investing in a high-speed wide format color laser printer include enhanced print quality, durability of printed materials, and the ability to produce diverse applications ranging from posters to technical drawings. Furthermore, these printers typically have lower operating costs per page compared to inkjet alternatives, making them a cost-effective choice for businesses with high-volume printing needs.
Best practices for optimizing print speed and quality include regularly maintaining the printer, using high-quality media, and ensuring that the printer’s firmware is up to date. Additionally, selecting a model that aligns with specific business needs—such as volume of printing, color accuracy, and speed—can further enhance operational efficiency and output quality.
How Can I Assess the Cost of Operation for Different Printers?
Cost per Print: Calculate the cost per print by dividing the total cost of consumables (toner, ink, paper) by the number of pages printed. This metric helps you compare the efficiency of different models and understand which printer offers the best value for your printing needs.
Energy Consumption: Look into the wattage rating of the printer to estimate its energy consumption. Printers that are more energy-efficient may save you money over time, particularly for high-volume printing.
Maintenance and Support Costs: Some printers may require more frequent maintenance or have higher costs for parts and repair services. When evaluating printers, it’s wise to research the reliability of each model and factor in these potential costs.
Print Volume and Speed: Assess how the printer’s speed (pages per minute) and recommended monthly print volume align with your needs. Choosing a printer that matches your expected usage can prevent excessive wear and tear, ultimately saving on costs associated with repairs and consumables.
What Are the Leading Brands of Wide Format Color Laser Printers?
The leading brands of wide format color laser printers include:
- HP: HP is known for its high-quality wide format color laser printers that offer excellent print speeds and vibrant color output. Their DesignJet series is particularly popular among professionals in graphic design and architecture, providing precision and various media handling options.
- Canon: Canon’s wide format printers are celebrated for their advanced imaging technologies and reliable performance. The imagePROGRAF series is designed for high-quality photo printing and technical drawings, making it a favorite in creative industries.
- Epson: Epson offers a range of wide format color laser printers that prioritize color accuracy and detail. Their SureColor series is particularly noted for its innovative PrecisionCore technology, which delivers sharp images and high productivity for commercial printing needs.
- Xerox: Xerox is recognized for its robust and versatile wide format color laser printers that cater to high-volume printing environments. The Xerox Color 800i/1000i is known for its exceptional color fidelity and finishing options, ideal for marketing materials and professional graphics.
- Ricoh: Ricoh provides a variety of wide format printers with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Their MP W6700 series offers features that support large-scale printing and is suitable for both technical and creative applications.
What Advantages Do Wide Format Color Laser Printers Offer Over Other Types?
Wide format color laser printers provide several advantages that make them stand out from other printing technologies.
- High-Quality Prints: Wide format color laser printers are known for producing sharp, vibrant images with high resolution. The laser technology allows for precise color reproduction and fine detail, making them ideal for graphics, posters, and professional presentations.
- Speed and Efficiency: These printers can handle large print jobs quickly, often delivering pages at a faster rate than inkjet counterparts. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses that require high volumes of printing without sacrificing quality.
- Durability of Prints: Prints from laser printers are generally more resistant to fading and smudging compared to inkjet prints. The toner used in laser printing bonds strongly with the paper, resulting in images that maintain their quality over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in a wide format color laser printer may be higher, the cost per page is typically lower than that of inkjet printers, especially for large print runs. This makes them a more economical choice for businesses that frequently print large-format materials.
- Versatility: Wide format color laser printers can accommodate a variety of media sizes and types, from standard paper to specialized materials such as cardstock and vinyl. This versatility allows users to create a wide range of printed products, from signage to marketing materials.
- Less Maintenance: Compared to inkjet printers, wide format color laser printers require less frequent maintenance and fewer consumables, such as ink cartridges. This reduces downtime and allows for more consistent printing operations without the need for regular cleaning and nozzle checks.