8 Best 11x17 Printer for Architects: Buyer’s Guide (2025)

Architects rely on clarity, scale, and precision and when these fall short, even the most compelling concept can lose its impact. Large-format drawings, renderings, and technical plans require tools that maintain accuracy without slowing the workflow. In architecture and engineering studios, the ability to produce consistent tabloid-size output becomes crucial. Because of this, many professionals prioritize choosing the best 11x17 printers that can deliver both reliability and high-quality results.

In this guide, we present a detailed evaluation of the top-performing devices available in 2025. Our assessments cover print quality, color accuracy, speed, and cost efficiency across a wide range of models. You'll also find answers to common architectural printing questions to support your decision-making. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what defines the best 11x17 printer for different professional needs.

Architect’s Decision Matrix Buying Guide

When an architect invests in a new 11x17 printer, the objective extends far beyond simply producing prints. The focus is on maintaining line accuracy, ensuring color consistency, and preserving the long-term quality of presentation materials. In this buying guide, we outline four essential decision factors that architects should evaluate before selecting a device. We begin with one of the most technically significant yet often misunderstood aspects of printer performance: ink technology.

1. Ink Technology: Pigment vs. Dye

Inkjet printers used in 11×17 and large-format workflows commonly rely on either pigment-based or dye-based formulations. These ink types differ in chemical structure and in how they interact with various substrates, but their performance is influenced by multiple external variables.

Observed characteristics should therefore be understood as tendencies documented in industry research rather than guaranteed outcomes. Factors such as media coating, paper porosity, ambient humidity, light exposure, and the design of the printer’s ink delivery system can significantly modify results.

Pigment vs. Dye Ink: Technical Characteristics (Adjusted for Accuracy)

Updated Technical Summary

• Pigment inks and dye inks exhibit different behaviors due to their chemical structures, but neither guarantees superior performance in all scenarios.

• Characteristics such as water resistance, color vibrancy, gamut range, and durability occur under specific conditions, particularly relating to media coating, environmental exposure, printer technology, and curing time.

• Lightfastness and archival behavior depend on the exact ink formulation and paper combination, not solely on pigment vs dye classification.

• For architectural use, the appropriate ink type should be selected based on document purpose, preferred media, and expected storage or display conditions, rather than relying on broad assumptions about ink behavior.

2. AIO Functions and A3 Scanning

In an architectural studio, printing alone may not support all workflow requirements, especially when drawings must be digitized or reproduced. An all-in-one device that offers A3 (11 × 17 inch) scanning can help handle larger documents more effectively, depending on the model and its hardware capabilities.

Key elements to review include maximum supported scan size, optical resolution, ADF capacity, duplex scanning, and how well the device manages different paper types. These factors can influence output accuracy, particularly when dealing with technical drawings.

A full A3-compatible scanner typically offers a scan area close to 11.7″ × 17″, helping capture tabloid sheets without cropping when the document is properly aligned. Optical resolutions around 600 dpi are common in this category and can support the preservation of fine linework in CAD drawings. ADF units with capacities ranging from 50 to 200 sheets, depending on the device, may help improve productivity when scanning multiple documents. Duplex scanning and multi-feed detection can also reduce interruptions during higher-volume tasks.

For architectural offices, A3 scanning capability can support workflows involving large-format CAD prints or oversized presentation sheets. Devices that combine an ADF with a flatbed may also accommodate thicker, folded, or delicate documents if the flatbed is designed to handle such media. Because scan quality is influenced by media characteristics, paper weight, coating, humidity, feeder mechanics, and user workflow, selecting a model with robust A3 scanning features can help maintain consistent results over time.

3. Paper Handling Tray Capacity and Roll Support

Some printers designed for office and production environments include multiple paper trays that are specified to accept different media sizes within the device’s documented limits. For example, certain models list support for media up to 320 × 432 mm (12.6″ × 17″) in their trays, which includes formats such as A4, Letter, A3, and 11×17. When trays support these sizes simultaneously, the listed paper sizes can be loaded at the same time without exceeding the manufacturer’s capacity specifications.

Wide-format printers used in CAD, technical drawing, and imaging applications may include roll-paper support when this feature is defined in the hardware specifications. Devices offering roll feed list measurable limits such as maximum roll width, maximum roll diameter, core size, and supported media thickness.

For example, several wide-format models specify roll widths up to 1,118 mm (44″) or larger, along with maximum roll diameters stated in millimeters and supported core sizes such as 2″ or 3″. These values are provided directly in product datasheets and define the mechanical constraints of the roll-feed system.

When evaluating a printer’s paper-handling capabilities, the technical documentation specifies tray capacity in sheets, supported paper weights in g/m², maximum media thickness in millimeters, and the supported feed mechanisms for cut-sheet or roll media. These values describe exactly which paper types the device can process and under what mechanical limits. No additional performance characteristics can be assumed beyond those listed in the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Operating Cost CPP and Volume

In large-format printing, operating cost is defined by measurable factors such as consumable yield, ink system design, and output volume. Tank-based systems like MegaTank or EcoTank use refillable reservoirs and list ink capacities and page-yield values according to ISO/IEC test methods. These documented yields allow the cost per page (CPP) to be calculated directly from ink cost and certified page output.

CPP values in datasheets are derived using ink bottle or cartridge cost divided by the specified yield, providing a quantifiable comparison between tank and cartridge systems. Print-volume requirements are indicated in a device’s duty cycle and recommended monthly print range, both stated numerically in technical specifications. Choosing a model with volume ratings aligned to expected workloads helps ensure operation within the manufacturer’s defined limits for large-format output.

Detailed Reviews & Technical Specifications of the Best 11x17 Printers

Below you’ll find detailed reviews and verified technical specifications for all ten printers featured in this guide, organized to help architects evaluate each model based on format support, print technology, workflow compatibility, and documented performance capabilities.

1. Brother MFC-J6955DW

Pros

• Supports print, copy, scan and fax up to A3/11×17 (ledger) size, including automatic 2-sided print, scan, copy and fax.

• Includes two 250-sheet input trays plus a 100-sheet multipurpose tray (total 600-sheet input).

• 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) with duplex capability.

• Maximum print speed up to 30 ipm (A4).

• Uses high-yield INKvestment Tank cartridges (up to 6,000 pages black, 5,000 pages colour, ISO/IEC).

  
  

Cons

• Listed maximum monthly duty cycle around 40,000 pages, with recommended volumes significantly lower; sustained use above recommendations is not specified.

• Ink system is cartridge-based rather than bottle-filled tanks.

• Optical scan resolution specified at up to 1200 × 2400 dpi; higher-resolution flatbed scanners may be required for specialised archiving work.

Why We Selected It?

This device is included because it offers full A3/11×17 all-in-one capability (print, copy, scan, fax), duplex ADF and a 600-sheet input configuration in a single unit, matching typical requirements for architecture and engineering offices that work with tabloid-size plans and documents.

Who Should Consider It?

It is technically suited to offices that need frequent A3/11×17 printing and scanning with automatic duplex handling and relatively high page volumes within the stated duty cycle, such as multi-user architectural or construction teams.

Technical Specifications

2. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550

Pros

• All-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy.

• Supports printing up to 13″×19″ (A3+); borderless up to 11″×17″.

• Six-color Claria ET Premium ink system (Pigment Black, Photo Black, Gray, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow).

• Multiple media paths: front tray plus rear feed; rear straight path supports media up to 1.3 mm thick.

Cons

• Scanner is A4/Letter flatbed only; no ADF.

• Paper input capacity is approximately 100-sheet main tray and 50-sheet rear feed.

Why We Selected It?

This device is included because it combines A3+ photo-capable output with a six-color tank system and provides clearly defined ink yield information for both documents and photos.

Who Should Consider It?

It is suitable for users who need photo-grade render and presentation output up to 13″×19″ and prefer refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges.

Technical Specifications

3. HP OfficeJet Pro 7740

Pros

• Supports printing, scanning, copying and faxing.

• Can print up to 11″×17″ (A3) size media and offers borderless printing up to that size.

• Automatic two-sided (duplex) printing is included.

• Equipped with a 35-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) for multi-page documents.

Cons

• Uses standard cartridges rather than a refillable tank system.

• Standard paper input tray is 250 sheets, which may be less than some high-volume devices.

Why We Selected It?

This model stands out because it offers wide format printing (up to 11″×17″), full multifunction capabilities (print/scan/copy/fax), and built-in features like duplex and ADF, making it suitable for both creative output and business document needs.

Who Should Consider It?

It is appropriate for users who need reliable wide-format output up to 11″×17″ (A3) for documents, drawings, layouts or presentation materials. This model is especially suitable for professionals in architecture, interior design and construction who require clear, large-format prints of plans and project sheets while also needing integrated scanning, copying and faxing capabilities within a single device. It is likewise a good fit for users with moderate to high print volumes who prefer a cartridge-based system.

Technical Specifications

4. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300

Pros

• 13″-wide A3+ professional photo printer; print-only (no scan/copy/fax).

• Uses a 10-ink LUCIA PRO pigment system: 9 colours (C, M, Y, R, PC, PM, Gray, Photo Black, Matte Black) plus Chroma Optimizer.

• Supports borderless printing up to A3+ (13×19″) and custom lengths up to approx. 990.6 mm.

• Handles a wide range of media types via top tray, manual (straight-path) feed and multi-purpose tray (disc/nail sticker).

• Supports thick media up to approx. 0.6 mm via manual feed.

• Wireless and wired connectivity: USB, Ethernet and Wi-Fi; 3.0″ colour LCD for direct control.

Cons

• Print-only device; no integrated scanner, copier or fax.

• Does not support automatic duplex printing; double-sided output is manual only and supported only on compatible media.

• Uses individual cartridges rather than refillable ink tanks.

• Top tray and manual feed are optimised for photo and fine-art stocks rather than very high-capacity office paper loading.

Why We Selected It?

This model is included because it provides A3+ (13×19″) photo and fine-art output using a 10-ink LUCIA PRO pigment system with Chroma Optimizer, supports borderless printing on many media sizes, and offers detailed, manufacturer-specified information on media handling, thickness ranges and cartridge configuration that is relevant for tracking consumables in professional and gallery-grade printing workflows.

Who Should Consider It?

It is appropriate for users who need high-quality A3+ photo and fine-art prints on a variety of media, including thicker fine-art papers, and who prefer a cartridge-based pigment ink system with separate tanks for each colour and Chroma Optimizer. It is particularly suitable for photographers, studios and graphic artists requiring borderless large-format prints and precise media handling, but who do not require integrated scanning, copying or fax functions.

Technical Specifications

5. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310

Pros

• Supports wide-format printing up to 13″×19″ (A3+), with borderless printing up to 11″×17″ (A3).

• Includes automatic 2-sided (duplex) printing.

• Provides dual 250-sheet input trays for a total input capacity of 500 sheets.

• Maximum print resolution up to 4800 × 2400 dpi.

• ISO print speeds rated at 25 ipm black and 12 ipm colour.

• Uses DURABrite Ultra pigment-based inks for durable, water-resistant output.

Cons

• Does not support copy, scan or fax; this is a single-function (print-only) device.

• No scanner unit means no ADF (automatic document feeder).

• Maximum monthly duty cycle rated at 50,000 pages, while the recommended monthly print volume is about 2,500 pages; continuous use above recommended volume is not indicated.

• Ink system is cartridge-based, not a bottle-filled tank system.

Why We Selected It?

This device is included because it offers 13″×19″ (A3+) wide-format printing, automatic duplex print capability, pigment-based ink quality, and a total 500-sheet input capacity. These characteristics make it suitable for technical offices requiring wide-format plan, document and presentation output without needing multifunction capabilities.

Who Should Consider It?

It is suited to users and offices requiring frequent wide-format (13″×19″ and 11″×17″) prints such as architectural, engineering or design teams who need high-quality large-format output but do not require scanning, copying or fax functionality. Ideal for workgroups that need a dedicated wide-format printer with reliable pigment-ink performance.

Technical Specifications

6. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550

Pros

• All-in-one device supporting print, scan and copy.

• Supports wide-format printing up to 13″×19″ (A3+), with borderless printing up to 13″×19″.

• Uses 6-colour Claria ET Premium refillable ink tanks (Pigment Black + Photo Black + Grey + Cyan + Magenta + Yellow).

• Automatic 2-sided (duplex) printing is supported.

• Flatbed scanner with up to 8.5″×14″ (Legal) maximum scan size and 1200 × 4800 dpi hardware resolution.

• Media versatility: dual front trays, rear feed, and straight-through rear path supporting media up to 1.3 mm thick; supports CD/DVD printing.

• High print resolution up to 5760 × 1440 dpi.

• High-yield ink bottles: up to 6,700 pages black and 6,200 pages colour (ISO), with Photo Black up to 7,300 pages depending on region.

  
  

Cons

• No ADF; scanning and copying are flatbed-only.

• No fax functionality.

• Input capacity is smaller than office-oriented A3 devices (e.g., 100-sheet main tray, 20-sheet photo tray, ~50-sheet rear feed).

• Epson does not specify a maximum monthly duty cycle or recommended monthly page volume.

Why We Selected It?

This model is included because it provides A3+ photo-quality output, a 6-colour refillable tank system, borderless 13″×19″ printing, and supports a wide range of media including straight-path thick-media handling. It is suitable for workflows requiring render, presentation, portfolio and high-quality photo/document output with predictable ink consumption.

Who Should Consider It?

It is appropriate for users needing photo-grade prints and mixed media output up to 13″×19″, especially photographers, designers, studios and architectural visualization users who produce high-quality renderings, presentation boards and printed assets, and who prefer a refillable tank system but do not require ADF-based batch scanning or fax.

Technical Specifications

7. Brother MFC-J5340DW

Pros

• 4-in-1 device: print, copy, scan and fax in one unit.

• Supports A3 / 11″×17″ (Ledger) printing, while copy/scan/fax functions support up to A4/Letter.

• Automatic 2-sided (duplex) A4 printing for reduced paper use.

• 250-sheet enclosed paper tray (A3-capable) plus single-sheet manual feed slot for special media.

• 50-sheet ADF for multi-page A4 documents.

• Fast ISO print speeds up to 28 ipm mono / 28 ipm colour (A4, ISO/IEC 24734).

• Maximum print resolution up to 1200 × 4800 dpi.

• Uses 4-colour pigment-based ink designed for business documents.

• Optional high-yield cartridges available: up to 3,000 pages black and 1,500 pages colour (C/M/Y) per ISO/IEC 24711.

Cons

• Scan, copy and fax are limited to A4/Letter size; A3 scanning/copying/faxing is not supported.

• No automatic 2-sided (duplex) scanning; double-sided originals must be scanned manually if both sides are needed.

• Uses a cartridge-based system rather than refillable ink tanks.

• Maximum monthly duty cycle is up to 35,000 pages, but the recommended monthly print volume is only 250–2,500 pages, so it is not intended for continuous high-duty enterprise workloads.

Why We Selected It?

This model is included because it offers full A4 all-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan, fax) combined with A3/11″×17″ printing, automatic A4 duplex printing, a 250-sheet A3-capable tray, a 50-sheet ADF, and ISO-rated speeds up to 28 ipm. These characteristics align well with typical requirements in small office, architecture and engineering environments that need tabloid-size (A3) output alongside everyday A4 document workflows and predictable cartridge yields.

Who Should Consider It?

It is technically suited to offices that need frequent A3/11″×17″ printing (for plans, drawings, layouts and presentation documents) while relying on A4 scanning, copying and faxing with automatic 2-sided A4 print and relatively high page volumes within the 250–2,500 pages per month recommended range. This includes multi-user teams in architecture, construction, engineering and design who want an A3-capable all-in-one with business-grade pigment inks, but who do not require A3 scanning or duplex ADF scanning.

Technical Specifications

8. Canon PIXMA PRO-200

Pros

• A 13-inch A3+ (13×19") professional photo printer, print-only.

• Uses an 8-color ChromaLife100+ dye-based ink system (CLI-65: Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Photo Cyan, Photo Magenta, Grey, Light Grey).

• Supports borderless A3+ printing and panoramic/custom lengths up to ~990 mm (39").

• Three-way media handling: top feed, manual single-sheet feed, and multi-purpose tray for printable CD/DVD discs.

• Thick/fine-art media support up to ~0.6 mm / ~380 g/m² (manual feed).

• Maximum print resolution 4800 × 2400 dpi.

• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, plus a 3.0" colour LCD.

Cons

• Print-only device, no scan, copy or fax; therefore no ADF.

• No automatic duplex printing (manual double-sided only).

• ISO PPM document speeds are not published; only photo print times provided.

• Uses cartridge-based ink (CLI-65), not refillable tanks.

• Manufacturer does not specify recommended monthly print volume (typical for photo printers).

Why We Selected It?

This model offers A3+ borderless professional photo output, an 8-colour dye ink system, and panoramic print support up to ~39", along with extensive media compatibility. It is suitable for workflows requiring high-quality photo, fine-art, design and presentation prints where media control and colour accuracy matter.

Who Should Consider It?

Ideal for photographers, illustrators, graphic designers, studios, and visualization professionals who need high-quality A3+ photo and fine-art printing, panoramic formats and accurate colour reproduction without needing multifunction office features.

Technical Specifications

Critical Comparison Table (Quick View for Architects)

This quick comparison table highlights the key specifications of leading 11×17 printers, helping architects rapidly assess format support, ink type, scanning capability and overall workflow suitability.

Best Choices for Architects

This category highlights models that combine reliable A3/11×17 printing and scanning with efficient supply management and workflow-friendly design, offering a balanced solution for studios that need dependable performance across daily architectural tasks.

Best Overall Solution (Workflow, A3 Print + A3 Scan, Low Operating Cost)

• Brother MFC-J6955DW - Best All-Around Productivity for Architecture Offices

Why it’s the best:

• The only model in the list with true A3 scanning + duplex A3 ADF, critical for digitizing plans, contracts and markups.

• Handles A3 printing and A3 scanning/copying/faxing, creating a complete architectural workflow in one device.

• Fast ISO print speeds and low CPP thanks to high-yield INKvestment cartridges.

• Strong paper handling: dual trays, large capacity, large-format duplexing.

Why architects benefit:

• Perfect for offices processing A3 markups, permit sets, contracts and scanned plan sheets.

• Duplex A3 ADF saves enormous time when scanning multi-page A3 submissions.

• Reliable enough for multi-user teams.

• Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 - Lowest Colour Cost for High-Volume A3 Offices

Why it’s the best:

• Extremely low CPP due to pigment-based EcoTank ink system.

• A3+ printing plus A3 scanning makes it rare among high-volume wide-format AIO devices.

• Uses pigment ink, ensuring water-resistant and smudge-proof technical documents.

Why architects benefit:

• Ideal for offices producing hundreds of A3 plans, specs and schedules each month.

• Very low operating cost for long-term workflows.

• Perfect for project documentation, redlines, check prints and internal review sets.

Best for Presentation & Render Quality (High Detail, Colour Fidelity, Portfolio Output)

• Canon PIXMA Pro-300 - Best A3+ Photo-Grade Output for Architectural Renderings

Why it’s the best:

• 10-colour LUCIA PRO pigment system produces archival, gallery-grade colour stability.

• Exceptional rendering detail, smooth gradients, controlled blacks and precise line/shadow reproduction.

• A3+ borderless makes it ideal for full-bleed presentation boards and portfolio pages.

Why architects benefit:

• Perfect for client presentations, competition boards, portfolio plates, and high-end visualizations.

• Pigment ink ensures long-lasting prints suitable for framing or permanent archive.

• Canon PIXMA Pro-200 - Best Colour Vibrancy & Speed for Presentation Workflows

(If pigment permanence is not required)

Why it’s the best:

• 8-colour dye system delivers extremely vibrant, saturated colour, especially for daylight renderings and glossy prints.

• Faster than many pigment photo printers.

• Supports panoramic formats for elongated competition layouts.

Why architects benefit:

• Ideal for teams producing vibrant renders, glossy presentations and concept boards.

• Excellent for studio reviews, early design visualization, and iterative colour workflows.

Best Print-Only Office Workhorse (Fast, Reliable A3+ Check Prints)

• Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 - Best Budget Pigment A3+ Printer

Why it’s the best:

• A3+ wide-format pigment printing with low hardware cost.

• DURABrite pigment inks give crisp linework for CAD drawings and schematics.

• Dual trays and fast print speeds make it efficient for multi-user environments.

Why architects benefit:

• Great for check prints, layout diagrams, internal reviews, elevations, and plan sets.

• Perfect when A3 printing is required but scanning is handled by a separate device.

Best Compact A3+ All-In-One (Render + Document Hybrid)

• Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 — Best Hybrid for Renders + Everyday Office Output

Why it’s the best:

• 6-colour system (5 dye + 1 pigment) offers high-quality renders at extremely low CPP.

• A3+ borderless capability supports presentation boards and portfolio pages.

• Flatbed scanner covers A4/Legal for office documents.

Why architects benefit:

• Ideal for small studios balancing render output, concept imagery and daily paperwork.

• Very low operating cost; excellent for colour-heavy documents and visualizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of printer is most suitable for architects?

Architects commonly use printers that support A3 or 11×17-inch output, since floor plans, sections, elevations and detail sheets often exceed standard A4/Letter size. Devices that offer wide-format printing, accurate line reproduction, and consistent colour output such as pigment-based inkjet models or office-class A3 all-in-one units are typically preferred.

Do architects need pigment or dye-based ink?

Pigment inks are generally chosen when line accuracy, sharp text, or light-fastness on archival media is important. Dye inks are used when smooth gradients and high-saturation colour are preferred, such as for presentation renders. The choice depends on whether the primary output is technical drawings or visual/portfolio material.

What size paper is most commonly used in architecture offices?

A3 or 11×17-inch (tabloid/ledger) paper is widely used for check sets, schematic drawings and general in-office reviews. Larger format output, A2, A1 or roll-based prints is usually handled by dedicated plotters.

Is an all-in-one printer necessary for architectural work?

Not always. All-in-one devices are useful for scanning marked-up drawings, digitising hand-sketches, or copying contracts. However, studios that rely heavily on presentation printing or board-quality output often use a dedicated photo or large-format printer along with a separate scanner.

What is the difference between A3 and A3+ printers?

A3 printers handle up to 11×17 in / 297×420 mm sheets.A3+ (also called 13-inch printers) accept media up to 13×19 in / 329×483 mm, which is valuable for presentation boards, portfolio spreads, and borderless prints that require extra margin.

Do I need roll-paper support for architectural printing?

Roll support is useful for panoramic layouts, long presentation strips, or formats exceeding typical cut-sheet dimensions. However, most day-to-day architectural office tasks are handled with A3 or A4 cut sheet, so roll printing is primarily needed for specialised presentation or gallery work.

Is monthly print volume important when choosing a printer?

Yes. Manufacturers list either a recommended monthly print range or a maximum duty cycle. Staying within these limits helps maintain consistent performance and avoid premature wear. Wide-format all-in-one devices typically support moderate office volumes, whereas photo-centric models may not include monthly volume guidelines.

Does scanner size matter for architectural workflows?

Yes, especially if the office frequently scans or copies full-size A3 drawings or redlined plans. Many AIOs have A4-only ADFs, even if they support A3 printing, so flatbed size and ADF specifications should be checked carefully.

Is colour accuracy important for architectural printing?

For construction documents, line clarity is the priority.For renderings, presentations and client-facing work, colour accuracy and tonal range become more important. This is why some studios keep both a workhorse A3 office printer and a dedicated pigment or dye-photo printer.

What is the difference between a plotter and an A3 office printer?

A3 printers handle tabloid-size sheets, while plotters are designed for A2/A1/A0 drawings or long continuous lengths using roll media. Plotters are used for final construction sets, whereas A3 printers handle most in-office drafts and review prints.