Creating art prints that capture every detail and color is a challenge without the right equipment. Whether you’re selling prints online or decorating your own space, the best printers for art prints combine high resolution, wide color gamut, and reliable media handling. In this guide, we’ve evaluated seven top models from Epson, Canon, and HP to help you find the perfect match for your studio or home office. For more on high-quality photo output, check out our roundup of the top photo printers for Stunning, Gallery-Quality prints.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Printer for Art Prints
Print Quality and Color Accuracy
The heart of any art print printer is its ability to reproduce colors faithfully and with fine detail. Look for models with multiple ink colors, such as six or more pigment-based inks, which provide a wider gamut and better archival stability. Print head technology also matters: Micro Piezo from Epson and FINE from Canon deliver precise droplet placement for smooth gradients. For black-and-white art prints, you can read our dedicated guide to monochrome printers.
Media Handling and Size Options
Art prints often require specialty papers like fine art, canvas, or photo luster. Ensure your printer supports borderless printing on various sizes, from 4×6 inches up to 13×19 inches or even 17 inches wide for larger works. A straight paper path is ideal for thick media, as it reduces curling. Wide-format models like the Epson ET-8550 and Canon PRO-1100 excel here, letting you produce gallery-sized pieces.
Ink System and Cost Efficiency
Frequent ink changes can derail your budget. Supertank and ink tank systems (Epson EcoTank, HP Smart Tank) use refillable bottles that yield thousands of pages, drastically lowering per-print costs. For occasional use, cartridge-based printers like the Epson XP-7100 are affordable upfront but require more frequent replacements. Consider your print volume: if you produce many art prints, an ink tank model pays off quickly. For a broader look at cost-effective options, see our best printers for photos and documents.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless printing via Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi Direct lets you send prints from your computer or mobile device without cables. A large touchscreen simplifies navigation, previewing, and editing. Some models also support USB and SD card slots for direct printing. For artists who need to print from design software, compatibility with Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom is a plus. The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 and HP Envy 6155 offer smart features like AI-powered formatting and the HP App for seamless mobile printing.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating the top contenders, our recommendation splits between two standout options. For professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand the widest color gamut and largest print sizes, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is unbeatable with its 11-pigment ink system and 17-inch support. If you need a versatile all-in-one that balances photo quality with low running costs, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format delivers lab-quality prints at a fraction of the cost per page. Both are exceptional choices for bringing your art to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of printer is best for art prints?
Inkjet printers with multiple pigment-based inks are ideal for art prints because they produce vibrant colors and sharp details. Models like the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 are specifically designed for fine art and photo output. For a comprehensive selection, see our roundup of best printers for photos and documents.
Can I print art prints on a regular printer?
Yes, but results may fall short of gallery quality. Standard office printers often use dye-based inks that fade faster and have a narrower color range. For lasting, museum-quality art prints, invest in a printer with pigment inks, high resolution, and support for thick media.
How important is color accuracy for art prints?
Extremely important. Art prints must match the original artwork’s hues and tones. Printers with dedicated color management software and calibration tools, such as the Canon PRO-1100, ensure consistent, repeatable results. Look for models that support ICC profiles and offer manual color adjustments.
Do I need a wide-format printer for art prints?
It depends on your typical print size. If you mostly print 8×10 inches or smaller, a standard letter-size printer like the Epson ET-4800 works fine. For larger pieces up to 13×19 or 17 inches, a wide-format model like the Epson ET-8550 or Canon PRO-1100 is necessary. In 2026, wide-format printers are more affordable than ever, making them a worthwhile investment for serious artists.
