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10 Best Plotter Machines 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 36-inch 5-Color Inkjet Printer Plotter

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Print Resolution
Print Speed
Media Handling

Most important from
14 reviews

Print Resolution
The print quality is shoulders above my HP T210.
Print Speed
The clarity of the printout is amazing and fast.
Media Handling
It's easy to load the paper and ink.

The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 is a versatile plotter machine designed for office use. With a high print resolution of 2400 x 1200 dpi, it ensures detailed and sharp print quality, which is a significant strength for anyone needing professional-grade prints. The use of LUCIA TD pigment inks enhances the color vibrancy and longevity of prints, making it suitable for both monochrome and color projects.

The print speed is relatively slow, capped at 3 pages per minute for both monochrome and color prints, which might be a drawback if you need to print large volumes quickly. The device supports various media types, including banner paper and glossy photo paper, with a maximum media size of 36 inches, allowing flexibility for different project sizes. Connectivity options are robust with Wi-Fi and Ethernet support, making it easy to integrate into modern office environments.

The plotter's large weight (215 pounds) and dimensions could pose challenges for smaller office spaces, despite being marketed as having a small footprint. Additionally, it only supports single-sided printing and has a max input sheet capacity of one, which may not be efficient for high output needs. Compatibility with multiple Canon cartridges ensures that ink replacements are straightforward, and the printer comes with a 1-year on-site warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding maintenance and support. The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-300 would be particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized offices that prioritize print quality over speed and have the space to accommodate its size.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,279
Print Resolution
Print Speed
Media Handling

Most important from
14 reviews

Print Resolution
The print quality is shoulders above my HP T210.
Print Speed
The clarity of the printout is amazing and fast.
Media Handling
It's easy to load the paper and ink.
#2

Canon 9856B002AA Wireless Color Printer, ImagePROGRAF

Rating
9.8
Print Resolution
Media Handling
Software Compatibility

Most important from
53 reviews

Print Resolution
The plotter delivers very crisp and clean plots, meeting high-quality expectations.
Media Handling
Handling and moving the plotter required some effort due to its large size.
Software Compatibility
Plotting calibration and software setup were straightforward and hassle-free.
Maintenance and Support
Customer service from Canon is not very helpful and can be grumpy.

The Canon 9856B002AA Wireless Color Printer, ImagePROGRAF IPF770, is a robust plotter machine designed for high-precision printing tasks, such as posters and signage. With a resolution of 2400 × 1200 dpi, it delivers sharp and detailed prints, making it suitable for professional applications.

The printer's high-speed capabilities, rated at 2 ppm for both monochrome and color, are complemented by features like the sub-ink tank system and economy print mode, which help manage ink use efficiently and reduce costs over time. The status monitor feature aids in keeping track of the printing process, ensuring smooth operation and timely maintenance.

This plotter supports various media types, including banner paper, glossy photo paper, and high-resolution paper, enhancing its versatility for different printing needs. Connectivity is somewhat limited to USB, though it does support app control via Android devices. Maintenance appears manageable with the use of Canon PFI-107 cartridges, and the machine’s drop-proof special feature adds durability. Its significant weight (224 pounds) and large dimensions necessitate ample space and potentially limit portability. The Canon ImagePROGRAF IPF770 is ideal for businesses and professionals needing high-quality, large-format prints and can handle medium to high-volume printing jobs.

Rating
9.8
Print Resolution
Media Handling
Software Compatibility

Most important from
53 reviews

Print Resolution
The plotter delivers very crisp and clean plots, meeting high-quality expectations.
Media Handling
Handling and moving the plotter required some effort due to its large size.
Software Compatibility
Plotting calibration and software setup were straightforward and hassle-free.
Maintenance and Support
Customer service from Canon is not very helpful and can be grumpy.
#3

Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 Inkjet Large Format Printer - 914.40 mm (36") - Colour - 5

Rating
9.7
Print Speed

Most important from
5 reviews

Print Speed
Printing speed is a major strength, particularly for businesses that prioritize speed over quality.

The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF770 is a large format inkjet printer designed for those who need high-quality color prints up to 36 inches wide. It boasts a good print resolution and is capable of producing two D-size prints per minute, which is quite efficient for its category. This makes it a suitable choice for businesses that need to print technical drawings, posters, or other large documents quickly and with precision.

The weight of the machine is substantial at 65 kilograms, so it is not very portable and requires a dedicated space. It offers network-ready connectivity options through USB and Ethernet, which simplifies the process of integrating it into office environments. The printer supports various types of media, including banner paper and glossy photo paper, enhancing its versatility. The ink types include five colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, black, and matte black, ensuring vibrant and accurate prints.

One of the significant advantages of the Canon iPF770 is its software compatibility and ease of use, including an LCD display and app control. This makes it user-friendly even for those who are not very tech-savvy. Additionally, the one-year on-site warranty provided by a reputable Canon Platinum Reseller ensures good maintenance and support. The initial cost and the need for regular ink replacements could be a consideration for budget-conscious users. This plotter is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and professionals in architecture, engineering, and advertising who need reliable and high-quality large format prints.

Rating
9.7
Print Speed

Most important from
5 reviews

Print Speed
Printing speed is a major strength, particularly for businesses that prioritize speed over quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Plotter Machines

Choosing the right plotter machine can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Plotter machines are used for printing vector graphics, and they are essential for industries like architecture, engineering, and graphic design. When selecting a plotter machine, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure that the machine meets your requirements. Here are the key specs you should focus on and how to navigate them.
Print ResolutionPrint resolution refers to the level of detail and clarity that a plotter can produce, measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI values mean finer detail and sharper images. For professional-quality prints, look for a plotter with at least 1200 DPI. If you need the plotter for basic line drawings or less detailed work, a lower DPI, such as 600, may suffice. Your choice should be guided by the level of detail required in your prints.
Print SpeedPrint speed indicates how quickly a plotter can produce prints, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) or square feet per hour. Faster print speeds are beneficial for high-volume printing environments where time is of the essence. If you need to produce a large number of prints quickly, look for a plotter with a higher PPM. For occasional or low-volume printing, a slower speed may be acceptable and more cost-effective.
Media HandlingMedia handling refers to the types and sizes of media that a plotter can accommodate. This includes the width of the media, the types of paper or other materials it can print on, and whether it supports roll or sheet media. Consider the maximum media width you need; common widths are 24, 36, and 44 inches. Ensure the plotter can handle the specific types of media you plan to use, such as glossy paper, vinyl, or fabric. Your choice should align with the specific media requirements of your projects.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how you can connect the plotter to your computer or network. Common connectivity options include USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. If you need to share the plotter among multiple users or integrate it into a network, Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity is essential. For direct, single-user connections, USB may be sufficient. Choose the connectivity options that best fit your workflow and network setup.
Ink TypesInk types used by plotters can vary, including dye-based, pigment-based, and eco-solvent inks. Dye-based inks are typically used for vibrant colors and are suitable for indoor use. Pigment-based inks offer better durability and are more resistant to fading, making them ideal for outdoor use. Eco-solvent inks are used for printing on vinyl and other non-porous materials. Select the ink type based on the durability and material requirements of your prints.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility refers to the plotter's ability to work with various design and printing software. Ensure that the plotter is compatible with the software you use, such as AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, or other CAD and graphic design programs. Compatibility ensures a smooth workflow and prevents potential issues with file formats and print quality. Check the plotter's specifications for supported software and operating systems.
Maintenance and SupportMaintenance and support are crucial for the long-term reliability of your plotter. Consider the availability of customer support, warranty options, and the ease of obtaining replacement parts and consumables like ink and printheads. A plotter with good support and easy maintenance will minimize downtime and ensure consistent performance. Choose a brand and model known for reliable support and user-friendly maintenance.

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