Large Format Printers

Understanding the difference between large format printers and classic printers

A printer that supports paper sheets approx. 46 to 254 cm in width is usually considered large format (for comparison, classic A4 papers are 21cm wide). The largest of these printers don't even use separate sheets, but print on a rotating paper roll. They usually print using ink or laser.

Their use is usually more economical than screen printing, which transfers the ink onto the target surface through a mesh. Screen printing demands rather complex pre-printing preparation, which means it is rather costly and time-consuming unless you print a lot at once.

Commonly supported paper formats

Large format printers enable colour and black and white printing of documents in A3 and larger formats. The formats differ in both size and designated usage:

What printing technology should you choose?

• Laser printers (both colour and black and white) are more suitable for printing documents in bulk with low operating costs.
• LED printers are fundamentally similar to laser printers and are used for the same purpose.
• Inkjet printers can print both standard text documents and graphics, photographs and colour documents.
• Dye-sublimation printers are designed for high-quality photo printing, but usually in standard "small" formats.

Large format printer interface and printing options

Large format printers bring unprecedented flexibility. The classic USB connection options bring  their typical versatility, but they limit you to having to print from only one PC. A good alternative is to use LAN or WiFi — then you can print wirelessly and from virtually anywhere. Android and IOS platforms also include their own Google Cloud Print and Apple AirPrint programs, with which you can print without having to install any drivers. NFC technology can also come in handy — just place your mobile device on the printer and print away.

What else should you know before choosing a large format printer?

• Touch screen integration provides more intuitive controls.
• Multifunction options - in addition to the printer, you can also purchase a scanner, copy machine and fax in one device.
• Economical operation - how often the printer needs to be cleaned, refills, etc.
• Max. media resolution - if you want to print detailed diagrams, make sure to choose a high-resolution printer.
• Borderless printing options. These can be necessary for graphic printing.
• Automatic duplex or double-sided printing. Without it, you will have to turn the paper sheets manually and print them twice.
• Print speed, which is measured by the number of pages printed per minute.
• Physical dimensions of the device itself. Does it fit comfortably in your office?