Finding the best wide format printer under $500 involves balancing print size, print quality, and features without overspending. The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 stands out as the overall best for its reliable performance and versatile features. For those prioritizing cost efficiency, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 offers impressive ink savings, while the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e is ideal for office environments that need multifunctionality. These choices highlight the main tradeoffs: higher print quality versus affordability, and multifunction versus dedicated printing. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these top picks and how they compare.
Key Takeaways
- Top performers balance print size, quality, and feature set within the $500 limit, with Epson leading in versatility.
- Ink efficiency significantly impacts long-term costs, making supertank models like the EcoTank ET-15000 attractive for heavy use.
- Multi-functionality varies—some printers excel at copying and scanning, others focus solely on printing, affecting suitability based on needs.
- Build quality and ease of use are consistent differentiators, with models like the Workforce Pro series offering intuitive controls.
- Choosing between compact design and larger capacity models depends on available space and volume expectations.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer, Auto 2-Sided Print 13″ x 19″ Copy, Scan & Fax, 50-Page ADF, 250-sheet Paper Capacity, Works with Alexa – Black
This Epson model stands out for its combination of speed, versatility, and wireless connectivity, making it well-suited for busy home offices or small businesses. Compared to the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, it offers faster print speeds and a more streamlined setup, though it lacks the ultra-high capacity ink system. Its ability to handle up to 13″ x 19″ prints with auto duplexing and a 50-page ADF makes it highly efficient, yet its higher initial cost and slightly smaller paper capacity are tradeoffs. This pick makes the most sense for those who need reliable, fast wide-format printing without sacrificing convenience or wireless features.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 25 ISO ppm for black and color
- Wireless printing from multiple devices via Wi-Fi and mobile apps
- Automatic duplex printing and scanning for efficiency
- Handles wide-format up to 13″ x 19″ with ease
Cons:- Relatively higher initial price within the $500 range
- Limited paper capacity at 250 sheets compared to larger models
Best for: Small business owners or professionals who require fast, versatile wide-format printing with wireless capabilities.
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume users needing maximum paper capacity or those on a very tight budget, as the initial cost and ink expenses can add up.
- Maximum Media Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Speed Black/Color:22/18 ppm
- Automatic Duplexing:Yes
- ADF Capacity:50 pages
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Weight:23.2 pounds
Bottom line: Ideal for users who need quick, high-quality wide-format prints with wireless flexibility without exceeding the budget.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, Ethernet and Printing up to 13 x 19 Inches, White
This EcoTank model excels for high-volume printing thanks to its refillable supertank system, drastically reducing ongoing ink costs compared to cartridge-based models like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310. While it offers comparable wide-format capabilities up to 13″ x 19″ and features like auto 2-sided printing and a built-in scanner, its initial price is on the higher end for under $500. The tradeoff is slower print speeds and less compact design, which could be a concern for smaller spaces. This printer makes the most sense for users prioritizing low running costs and large ink capacity over speed.
Pros:- Extremely low ink costs with refillable supertank system
- Prints up to 13″ x 19″ with borderless options
- Wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity for versatile setup
- High page yield with ink bottles lasting for thousands of pages
Cons:- Slower print speeds compared to cartridge-based printers
- Larger physical size suitable for dedicated workspace
Best for: Small businesses or home offices with high-volume printing needs and budget-conscious ink expenses.
Not ideal for: Users who need fast turnaround times or a compact footprint, as the EcoTank is larger and slower than inkjet counterparts.
- Maximum Media Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Speed Black/Color:Approx. 8 ppm
- Display:2.4″ color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Print Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Printer Type:All-in-One Supertank
- Weight:27.2 pounds
Bottom line: Best suited for high-volume users seeking to minimize ink costs, even if it means slower printing and larger size.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with Print up to 13″ x 19″ Auto Double-Sided Printing max 11″ x 17″, 500-sheet Capacity, 2.4″ Color Display, Smart Panel App – Black
Compared to the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820, the WF-7310 offers an impressive 500-sheet capacity, making it a better choice for high-volume environments. Its ability to handle wide-format prints up to 13″ x 19″ and auto duplexing enhances productivity, though it sacrifices some speed—printing at 25 ppm is fast but slightly slower than the WF-7820. The 2.4″ color display and Smart Panel app simplify operation, but its size and weight (over 30 pounds) might be a concern for smaller setups. This model is perfect for those needing a durable, high-capacity printer for frequent printing jobs, with less emphasis on ultra-fast speeds.
Pros:- Massive 500-sheet paper capacity for high-volume printing
- Wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″
- Auto duplex printing and scanning
- User-friendly 2.4″ color display and smart app control
Cons:- Relatively heavy and bulky for small spaces
- Slightly slower than some competitors at 25 ppm
Best for: Small to medium-sized offices or serious hobbyists with high printing demands and a need for large paper capacity.
Not ideal for: Users with limited space or those who prioritize the fastest print speeds over large volume capacity.
- Maximum Media Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Speed Black/Color:25/12 ppm
- Automatic Duplexing:Yes
- Display:2.4″ color LCD
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Printer Type:Wide-format Inkjet
- Weight:35.7 pounds
Bottom line: Best for environments demanding high-volume, wide-format printing with large paper capacity and reliable performance.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e Wide Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best for Office, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included, AI-Enabled (53N95A)
This HP model is designed with office workflows in mind, offering fast color printing up to 18 ppm, along with AI-enabled features for optimized output, making it ideal for detailed documents like floorplans or marketing materials. It stands out from the Canon Pixma iX6820 by providing additional scanning, copying, and automatic document feeding, plus robust security features. While its print resolution reaches 4800 x 1200 dpi and it supports up to 11″ x 17″ sheets, its higher price and slightly larger footprint are tradeoffs. This printer makes the most sense for small to medium offices needing accurate color and reliable multifunctionality.
Pros:- Fast color print speed up to 18 ppm
- AI-enabled printing ensures better formatting and layout
- Automatic duplex printing and 250-sheet input trays
- Secure with HP Wolf Pro Security suite
Cons:- Higher price point within the sub-$500 range
- Larger footprint that may not fit small desks
Best for: Small to medium business offices that require high-quality, color-accurate printing with integrated scanning and security features.
Not ideal for: Home users or hobbyists who only need basic printing, as the advanced features and cost may be unnecessary for simpler needs.
- Maximum Media Size:11″ x 17″
- Print Speed Color:18 ppm
- Maximum Print Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
- Automatic Duplexing:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Weight:32.2 pounds
Bottom line: Best suited for office environments needing high-quality, color-accurate prints with multifunction capabilities and security features.
Canon Pixma iX6820 Wireless Business Printer with AirPrint and Cloud Compatible, Black, 23.0” (W) x 12.3” (D) x 6.3” (H)
The Canon Pixma iX6820 earns its spot for offering superb print detail at a budget-friendly price, especially for those needing 13″ x 19″ printing. Its resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi ensures sharp images and detailed documents, with the five individual ink tanks allowing for efficient ink replacement. Compared to models like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310, it may lack some advanced features like large paper capacity and duplex scanning, but it excels in print quality and wireless cloud compatibility. The main tradeoff is slower print speeds and a smaller paper capacity—more suitable for creative projects or occasional large prints. This printer makes sense for users prioritizing high-quality output over speed or volume.
Pros:- Exceptional print resolution up to 9600 x 2400 dpi
- Wireless printing via AirPrint and cloud services
- Individual ink tanks for cost-effective refilling
- Compact and easy to set up
Cons:- Slower printing speeds around 14.5 ppm
- Limited paper capacity of 150 sheets
Best for: Creative professionals or hobbyists needing detailed large-format prints on a budget, especially for photos or presentations.
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or users needing fast, continuous printing, due to slower speeds and lower capacity.
- Maximum Media Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Resolution:9600 x 2400 dpi
- Print Speed Black/Color:14.5/15 ppm
- Number of Ink Tanks:5
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Printer Type:Wireless Inkjet
- Weight:17.9 pounds
- Maximum Paper Size:13″ x 19″
Bottom line: Best for creative users who need high-quality large-format prints without high volume demands and have space constraints.
Epson Expression Photo XP-980 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with 6-Color Claria Ink System, Borderless Printing up to 11″ x 17″, Fast 4″ x 6″ Photo Printing, Built-in Scanner and Copier
This model stands out for producing professional-quality photos and prints, thanks to its 6-color Claria Photo HD inks and 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution, making it ideal for gallery-quality prints. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-8550, it offers more vibrant color control but at a slightly higher per-print cost, especially for large volumes. Its borderless 11″ x 17″ printing and fast 4″ x 6″ photo output are perfect for creative projects, though it lacks the high paper capacity of larger office models like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840. The 4.3″ color touchscreen makes operation intuitive, and wireless connectivity allows printing from multiple devices. The built-in scanner and copier add versatility, but the ink system’s use of genuine cartridges can be costly over time. This pick makes the most sense for photographers or artists prioritizing print quality over volume or speed.
Pros:- Exceptional print resolution for detailed photos
- Borderless printing up to 11″ x 17″
- Easy to operate with touch screen and wireless options
- High-quality photo output with vibrant color accuracy
Cons:- Higher cost per page compared to ink tank models
- Limited paper capacity (plain paper tray and rear feed)
- Relies on genuine Epson cartridges, which can be expensive
Best for: Photographers and artists needing high-fidelity, borderless photo prints up to 17 inches wide.
Not ideal for: High-volume offices seeking fast, cost-effective printing with large paper capacity.
- Maximum Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Borderless Printing:up to 11″ x 17″
- Print Speed (4×6 photo):as fast as 11 seconds
- Wireless Printing:Yes
- Built-in Scanner and Copier:Yes
- Touchscreen Size:4.3 inches
Bottom line: Best suited for creative professionals who need high-quality, borderless photo printing and are willing to invest in genuine ink.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7840 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print up to 13″ x 19″, Copy, Scan and Fax, 50-Page ADF, 500-sheet Paper Capacity, 4.3″ Screen,Black
This printer is designed for busy workspaces needing versatile, high-volume printing, with support for up to 13″ x 19″ media and a massive 500-sheet paper capacity, surpassing the Epson Expression Photo XP-980’s smaller trays. Its Auto Duplex feature and 50-page ADF streamline multi-page document handling, making it more suitable for office tasks. The 4.3″ color screen, wireless connectivity, and compatible apps enhance productivity, but it’s less specialized for photo quality compared to the XP-980. It also features fax and copy functions, adding to its multifunction appeal. The tradeoff is that its photo output might lack the fine detail of a dedicated photo printer, but for volume and multifunctionality, this is a superior choice. It’s ideal for small business or office environments that need large-format, multi-function printing.
Pros:- Large paper capacity (500 sheets)
- Auto duplex and 50-page ADF for efficiency
- Supports media up to 13″ x 19″
- All-in-one functions including fax, scan, copy
Cons:- Bulkier and heavier than smaller models
- Photo quality not as detailed as dedicated photo printers
- Higher initial cost and ink usage for multifunctionality
Best for: Small businesses or offices requiring large-format printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in high volumes.
Not ideal for: Photographers or artists seeking gallery-quality images, as its photo output is more utilitarian.
- Maximum Print Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Speed:up to 20 ppm (color and black)
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Duplex Printing:Auto
- ADF Capacity:50 pages
- Wireless Connectivity:Yes
Bottom line: Best for office environments that need efficient, large-format multifunction printing with high capacity and speed.
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-format Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner Copier, Ethernet and 4.3-inch Colorfull Touchscreen
This EcoTank model makes a compelling case for budget-conscious creative users, offering refillable ink tanks that dramatically lower ongoing printing costs compared to cartridge-based systems like the XP-15000. Its ability to print borderless 13″ x 19″ photos, along with supporting various media including cardstock, makes it versatile for artistic projects. Compared to the XP-15000, it provides a higher page yield—up to 6,200 pages with low-cost ink bottles—and can print for up to 2 years without replacement. The 4.3″ touchscreen and wireless features add user-friendliness. However, the initial purchase price is higher than some entry-level models, and refillable tanks require careful handling to prevent messes. It’s perfect for hobbyists or small studios that want high-quality output without the high running costs.
Pros:- Cost-effective ink system with low per-page costs
- Supports borderless up to 13″ x 19″
- High page yield (up to 6,200 pages)
- Versatile media support including cardstock and DVDs
Cons:- Higher upfront cost compared to cartridge-based printers
- Requires careful handling of refill bottles
- Slower print speeds than dedicated photo printers
Best for: Hobbyists, small studios, or creative enthusiasts prioritizing low-cost, large-volume photo printing.
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or photographers needing ultra-fine detail for large professional prints.
- Maximum Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Borderless Printing:up to 13″ x 19″
- Page Yield:up to 6,200 pages
- Display:4.3-inch color touchscreen
- Media Support:Cardstock, DVDs, specialty media
- Connectivity:Wireless and Ethernet
Bottom line: Ideal for cost-conscious users focused on large-volume, high-quality creative printing at home or small studios.
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready, Black, Large
This printer provides a rare combination of affordability and large-format photo printing, supporting borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″ with professional 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution. It includes a comprehensive ink set with red and gray inks, expanding the color gamut and enhancing black-and-white images. Compared to smaller models like the XP-980, it offers much larger media support at a similar price point, making it suitable for photographers or hobbyists who want big prints without high costs. Its wireless and Ethernet connectivity, along with Dash Replenishment, add convenience for frequent use. The main tradeoff is its slower print speed and the need for genuine Epson cartridges, which can be costly over time. This is perfect for those needing high-quality large-format prints at home or small studios with budget constraints.
Pros:- Supports borderless 13″ x 19″ prints
- Excellent color and black-and-white quality
- Includes red and gray inks for expanded color range
- Supports wireless and Ethernet connections
Cons:- Slower print speeds compared to professional large-format printers
- Relies on genuine Epson cartridges that can be expensive
- May require careful handling of ink and paper loading
Best for: Photographers or hobbyists wanting affordable, high-quality large-format photo printing at home.
Not ideal for: High-volume professional labs requiring rapid throughput and minimal manual intervention.
- Maximum Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Borderless Printing:up to 13″ x 19″
- Media Support:up to 13″ wide, including cardstock
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Ink System:6-color with red and gray
- Print Speed:slower than professional models
Bottom line: Best for budget-minded creatives seeking large, high-quality borderless prints without sacrificing color accuracy.
How We Picked
The selection process focused on printers that can handle wide-format printing up to 13 inches or more while remaining under $500. We evaluated performance, print quality, ink cost efficiency, usability, and durability. Additional considerations like connectivity options, paper capacity, and ease of maintenance were also key. Ranking reflects a balance between initial affordability and long-term value, prioritizing models that perform reliably across multiple functions and print sizes. This approach ensures that each top pick offers distinct advantages aligned with different user needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Wide Format Printer Under $500
Choosing the best wide format printer under $500 requires understanding key factors that impact performance, cost, and usability. Beyond initial price, consider how often you’ll print, the quality you need, and whether multifunction features are essential. The right printer should meet your specific needs without overextending your budget, but also avoid common pitfalls like sacrificing print quality or ink efficiency just to save money.Print Size and Volume
Assess your typical print size needs—most models here support up to 13 inches, but some excel at higher volumes. If you plan frequent large prints, look for models with higher paper capacity and faster print speeds. Conversely, if occasional printing suffices, a more compact model with lower capacity can save space and cost. Remember, higher volume models often come with better build quality and additional features, but may also increase upfront complexity.
Print Quality and Resolution
Pay attention to resolution specs, especially if you plan to print detailed images or photos. Inkjet models generally provide superior photo quality, while laser or supertank options may excel at sharp text. For creative projects or professional presentations, prioritize printers with higher DPI and color accuracy. However, high resolution often means higher ink or toner costs, so balance quality with ongoing expenses.
Ink and Cost Efficiency
Inks and toners significantly influence the total cost of ownership. Supertank printers like the EcoTank series can drastically reduce per-page costs, making them ideal for frequent printing. Cheaper ink cartridges may save money upfront but require frequent replacements, increasing long-term expenses. Consider your expected print volume and choose a model that offers a sustainable ink system suited for your needs.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Modern printers should offer flexible connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. An intuitive control panel or mobile app improves usability, especially if you plan to print from multiple devices. Avoid models with overly complicated setup processes or obscure controls, as this can hinder daily use and lead to frustration.
Size, Space, and Maintenance
Consider the physical dimensions and whether the printer fits comfortably into your workspace. Larger capacity models often require more space but deliver better durability and fewer refills. Maintenance requirements, such as cleaning and ink refills, vary between models; choosing a printer with easy access to ink tanks and straightforward cleaning routines can save time and effort over its lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use third-party ink or toner with these printers?
Many wide format printers under $500 are compatible with third-party inks or toners, which can lower ongoing costs. However, using non-original supplies may affect print quality and could void the warranty. It’s essential to verify compatibility beforehand and weigh the potential savings against possible risks like clogs or damage. For frequent printing, investing in genuine ink may provide more consistent results and greater reliability.
Are these printers suitable for photo printing?
Some models, especially those with higher resolution and color accuracy like the Epson Expression Photo series, can produce good-quality photo prints. However, under $500 limits the ability to match professional photo printers, so results may vary. If photo quality is a priority, look for printers that support borderless printing and have dedicated photo ink sets. Keep in mind that photo printing generally consumes more ink and may require more frequent maintenance.
How important is the speed of printing for my needs?
Print speed can matter if you need to produce large volumes quickly. While most models under $500 are adequate for small to medium jobs, faster printers like the Epson Workforce Pro series can significantly cut down wait times. If your workflow involves frequent large-format prints, investing in a faster model can improve efficiency, but it may come with higher initial costs or complexity.
What should I consider if I have limited space?
For small or cluttered workspaces, choosing a more compact model like the Canon Pixma iX6820 makes sense. Be mindful that smaller printers may have lower paper capacity or fewer features, which could impact usability over time. Always measure your available space and compare it with the dimensions and footprint of the printer. Additionally, consider ease of access for paper loading and maintenance to avoid inconvenience.
Is it worth paying more for multifunction features?
Multifunction printers that combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing can be highly valuable if you need all these functions regularly. They save space and consolidate your equipment, often at a lower total cost than buying separate devices. However, multifunction models may be more complex to operate and maintain, and sometimes sacrifice speed or quality in certain functions. Evaluate your actual needs carefully to determine if the added features justify a slight premium within your budget.
Conclusion
For most users, the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 offers the best overall balance of performance, features, and value. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is ideal for those prioritizing long-term savings and high-volume printing, making it the best value. If budget is tight and ease of use is key, the Canon Pixma iX6820 suits beginners or casual users. Creative professionals or serious hobbyists should consider the Epson Expression Photo XP-980 for superior photo quality. Finally, office users needing multifunctionality will find the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e a strong contender, combining all-in-one capabilities with wide-format options.
