Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
4.0Editor score
Six-color Claria ink system
Cartridge-free ink bottles
Print, scan, and copy
In this guide
An A3 printer is more than a larger version of a desktop printer: it can handle wide-format documents, oversized photos, presentation boards, and multipage office workflows in one device. The right model balances paper capacity, print quality, scanning, connectivity, ink convenience, and operating cost.
We compared ten wide-format all-in-one and business printers using their supplied specifications, customer ratings, maximum media sizes, paper capacities, and supported functions. The guide covers models intended for photo enthusiasts, small offices, creative professionals, and teams that regularly produce A3 and tabloid-size output.
Each placement explains the strongest reasons to consider the printer, along with practical limitations and ideal users. Ratings and product details reflect the supplied listings, while configurations, ink plans, bundles, and prices can change, so verify the latest listing information before buying.
Top 3 Picks for Best A3 Printer
Brother INKvestment 6960
4.2Editor score
11-by-17-inch printing
50-page duplex ADF
31 black pages per minute
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310
3.8Editor score
13-by-19-inch maximum size
500-sheet paper capacity
Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct
Top 10 Best A3 Printer in 2026 Compared
The comparison highlights maximum paper size, core functions, paper handling, connectivity, and intended use so buyers can quickly identify the printer that fits their documents, workflow, and creative or office requirements.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
Wide-format all-in-one
Six-color Claria inks
Print, scan, copy
Wireless connectivity
4.0Editor score
Editor's Choice
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820
13-by-19-inch maximum
50-sheet document feeder
250-sheet main tray
Duplex print, copy, scan
3.7Editor score
Best Budget
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310
13-by-19-inch maximum
Two 250-sheet trays
Rear manual feed
Wi-Fi Direct connectivity
3.8Editor score
Canon Pixma iX6820
Five individual ink tanks
150-sheet auto feeder
AirPrint compatible
Cloud printing supported
4.1Editor score
Epson EcoTank ET-15000
Wide-format all-in-one
4800-by-2400 resolution
17 black pages per minute
Wi-Fi, LAN, USB
4.2Editor score
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840
13-by-19-inch maximum
500-sheet paper capacity
Print, copy, scan, fax
802.11 wireless support
3.9Editor score
HP OfficeJet Pro 9135
Office all-in-one
25 black pages per minute
Two 250-sheet trays
Single-pass duplex ADF
4.0Editor score
Brother INKvestment 6960
11-by-17-inch maximum
50-page duplex ADF
500-sheet tray capacity
31 black pages per minute
4.2Editor score
Epson WorkForce WF-7710
13-by-19-inch maximum
Print, scan, copy, fax
250-sheet paper tray
Automatic duplex printing
4.3Editor score
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730
11-by-17-inch maximum
22 black pages per minute
Two 250-sheet trays
Single-pass duplex ADF
3.9Editor score
1. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 – Best Overall A3 Printer
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550
Six-color Claria ink system
Wide-format all-in-one design
Cartridge-free ink bottles
Wireless all-in-one functions
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is a wide-format wireless all-in-one built around Epson's Claria ET Premium six-color ink system. It carries a 4.0 rating in the supplied data, but its strongest appeal is the combination of photo-oriented color, large-format capability, and a cartridge-free refill approach. That makes it especially relevant to buyers who want an A3-class printer for more than standard office documents.
Pros
- Excellent photo color range
- Ink bottles reduce cartridge waste
- Supports creative color projects
- Useful print, scan, copy functions
- Sharp text and image output
Cons
- Wide-format model needs space
- Single-tank maintenance workflow
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Its standout feature is the six-color Claria ET Premium configuration, which adds finer color differentiation for photographs, graphics, and creative projects. Epson's high-accuracy printhead is designed to produce vibrant colors alongside sharp text, while the tank system accepts refillable ink bottles rather than conventional cartridges. The listing also identifies a substantial page yield of up to 6,200 color pages and up to two years of ink in the box with each replacement set, depending on usage.
The tank format does come with trade-offs. The machine is intended for wide-format work, so it naturally requires more desk space than a standard A4 or letter-size printer, and an EcoTank workflow still needs careful attention to ink levels. The 4.0 rating does not place it at the very top of this list numerically, yet its specialized photo strengths and broad creative capability make it a particularly compelling general recommendation for color-focused users.
Choose the ET-8550 when photographs, posters, charts, and color projects matter as much as routine documents. It is best suited to a home studio, creative office, or small business that values pigment-rich output and prefers bottled ink over disposable cartridges. It earns the Editor's Choice position because it is the most flexible creative-focused option in the group, not because it is necessarily the fastest office machine.
Color Quality for Photos and Creative Work
The six-color Claria ET Premium system is the ET-8550's defining advantage. Additional inks allow the printer to distinguish subtle tones more effectively than a basic four-color arrangement, making this model well suited to photography, graphic design, mood boards, and other work where color transitions matter.
Cartridge-Free Ink Convenience
Epson's refillable bottles can be more convenient for high-volume color users who dislike frequent cartridge changes. They also help reduce cartridge waste, although users should still account for storage needs and monitor ink levels to avoid interruptions during an important project.
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2. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820 – Best for Busy Offices
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820
13-by-19-inch maximum size
25 black pages per minute
50-sheet automatic feeder
250-sheet paper capacity
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7820 is a business-oriented wireless all-in-one capable of printing media up to 13 by 19 inches. Its 3.7 rating is the lowest among the ten supplied models, but the underlying specification sheet reveals a capable office machine. Fast first-page-out, 25 black and 12 color ISO pages per minute, automatic duplexing, scanning, copying, and faxing all target productive professional workflows.
Pros
- Fast wide-format color output
- Complete duplex document workflow
- Flexible wireless connection options
- Large touchscreen controls
- Heat-free print technology
Cons
- Lowest listed customer rating
- Genuine cartridge limitation
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The major strength is its balanced approach to large-format productivity. A 250-sheet main tray reduces the need for constant refills, and the 50-sheet automatic document feeder supports multipage copying, scanning, and faxing. Duplex operation extends to print, copy, scan, and fax, creating a more complete workflow than a basic printer with a scanner attached. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen also provides direct control without requiring a computer.
There are some important constraints. The supplied details warn that the Epson printing system is designed for Epson Genuine Cartridges and that non-genuine ink could cause damage not covered by the limited warranty. Its 250-sheet capacity is also lower than the 500-sheet configurations offered by several competitors, and the 3.7 rating suggests some buyers may have encountered issues or simply rated the experience with less enthusiasm.
The WF-7820 is a strong match for offices that regularly create wide-format reports, layouts, plans, and presentations but do not need a specialized photo-printer ink system. It is particularly useful where duplex document handling, fast output, a large feeder, and multiple connection methods matter. Buyers should confirm their ink and service preferences before making the final decision.
Productivity for High-Volume Offices
Fast black and color output, automatic duplexing, and a 50-sheet feeder help streamline recurring office jobs. The printer is built for users who value completing tasks in one device instead of moving between separate print, scan, copy, and fax machines.
Flexible Wireless and Network Setup
Built-in wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth Low Energy setup, and Ethernet provide multiple ways to connect. A 4.3-inch color touchscreen and Epson Smart Panel support local and mobile control, making the model adaptable to different office layouts.
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3. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 – Best Value A3 Printer
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310
13-by-19-inch maximum size
500-sheet total capacity
25 black pages per minute
Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi Direct
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 is a wide-format wireless inkjet all-in-one that can print up to 13 by 19 inches. Its 3.8 rating sits in the middle of the group, yet the combination of print size, 500-sheet capacity, and performance specifications makes it a value-oriented choice for buyers who need serious paper handling without a premium creative feature set.
Pros
- Large maximum print size
- Generous 500-sheet capacity
- Fast color and black output
- No warmup time specified
- Compact 2.4-inch display
Cons
- Smaller display than rivals
- Genuine cartridge restriction
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Paper handling is a clear strength. Two 250-sheet trays provide 500 sheets of capacity, and a rear feed adds another loading option for specialized media or lighter-volume paper changes. PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology supports fast output, zero warmup time, lower energy consumption, and reliable operation for heavy workloads. The printer can also produce up to 25 black and 12 color ISO pages per minute.
Its controls are simpler than those of some competitors. The 2.4-inch color display is smaller than the 4.3-inch touchscreens found on higher-end Epson and HP office models, which may make detailed navigation less convenient. The listing also notes that the system is designed for Epson Genuine Cartridges, with possible damage from non-genuine ink not covered by the limited warranty.
This printer makes the most sense for a home office, studio, or small business that regularly produces wide-format documents and wants generous paper capacity. It lacks the photo-specialist positioning of the ET-8550 and the more advanced touchscreen controls of the WF-7820, but it delivers the essentials in a straightforward package. For value-conscious buyers, it is a particularly well-balanced option.
Paper Capacity for Heavy Workflows
Two 250-sheet trays hold 500 sheets in total, a meaningful advantage for long print runs and mixed-media projects. The rear feed broadens media handling without requiring users to fill the primary trays with specialty stock.
Fast Heat-Free Wide-Format Printing
PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology is designed to eliminate warmup delays while supporting dependable output. The listed 25 black and 12 color ISO pages per minute make the model useful for busy workdays with frequent wide-format jobs.
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4. Canon Pixma iX6820 – Best for Simple Wireless Printing
Canon Pixma iX6820
Five individual ink tanks
150-sheet automatic feeder
9600-by-2400 maximum resolution
AirPrint and cloud support
The Canon Pixma iX6820 is a wireless business printer with a 4.1 rating, a five-ink-tank system, and a 150-sheet automatic sheet feeder. It is a distinctive choice in this roundup because it emphasizes straightforward mobile and cloud printing rather than the deepest office-document feature set. Its compact listed dimensions also make it easier to place than many full-size wide-format all-in-ones.
Pros
- Strong 4.1 customer rating
- Five individually refillable tanks
- Excellent maximum print resolution
- AirPrint and cloud compatibility
- Compact form factor
Cons
- Only 150-sheet feeder capacity
- Older operating-system support list
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The five individual ink tanks offer more control than a single combined color cartridge, and Canon's Fine Print Head technology uses full photolithography inkjet nozzle engineering. Maximum resolution reaches 9600 by 2400 dots per inch, while the listed nozzle configuration totals 5,120 nozzles, including 4,096 color and 1,024 black. These details make the printer appealing for detailed photos and graphics.
The main limitation is its 150-sheet feeder, which is less generous than the 250- or 500-sheet arrangements offered by most office-oriented competitors. It also does not present a full print-copy-scan-fax workflow in the supplied data, so buyers needing a copier or fax function should look elsewhere. The operating-system compatibility details are dated compared with the newer model years in this list.
The iX6820 is a sensible pick for a home business, creative hobbyist, or compact office that values AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Pixma Printing Solutions, and high-resolution output. Its 4.1 rating is among the stronger results here. It is not the most complete office copier in the group, but it delivers color quality and flexible connection options in a relatively restrained package.
Five-Tank Ink Flexibility
Five separately managed ink tanks can make color management and replacement more transparent than a combined cartridge. The approach is useful for owners who want to replenish only the color they need and who value Canon's detailed inkjet nozzle design.
Mobile and Cloud Printing Ease
AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Pixma Printing Solutions simplify printing from compatible devices and cloud workflows. This is especially useful for users who want a wide-format printer without navigating a complex control panel for every job.
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5. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Premium A3 Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-15000
Up to 4800-by-2400 resolution
17 black pages per minute
33000-page monthly duty cycle
Wi-Fi, LAN, USB
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a wireless wide-format supertank all-in-one rated 4.2 in the supplied data. It combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in a high-capacity EcoTank design, making it a premium option for busy households, studios, and offices that want to avoid repeated cartridge purchases.
Pros
- Strong 4.2 customer rating
- High stated monthly duty cycle
- Print, copy, scan, fax functions
- Large-format supertank format
- Flexible wired and wireless connections
Cons
- Lower speed than top office models
- Bulk ink system needs planning
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The strongest evidence of its productivity focus is the stated monthly duty cycle of 33,000 pages. It also supports 17 pages per minute in black and white and 9 pages per minute in color, while producing resolution up to 4800 by 2400 dots per inch. Those specifications position it as a dependable high-volume machine rather than a lightweight occasional-use printer.
The trade-offs center on throughput and operating logistics. Its listed print speeds trail the 25 to 31 black pages per minute offered by the fastest Epson, HP, and Brother office models here. As an EcoTank product, it is also better suited to owners who understand the need to maintain refillable ink containers, rather than buyers who want the absolute simplest cartridge-based routine.
The ET-15000 is a strong recommendation for organizations that produce a high volume of wide-format color or monochrome work and value a complete multifunction device. USB, LAN, and Wi-Fi provide flexible placement and connection, while the four functions reduce equipment duplication. It earns the Best Premium label because its supertank capacity, duty-cycle claim, and complete feature set create a clear high-end proposition.
High-Volume Supertank Operation
A stated duty cycle of 33,000 pages per month signals that the ET-15000 is intended for demanding use. The tank system is particularly relevant to offices that produce many pages and prefer replenishing larger ink supplies instead of changing small disposable cartridges.
Complete Wide-Format Multifunction Design
Printing, faxing, copying, and scanning are combined in one wide-format unit. This consolidation helps reduce equipment needs while keeping common office tasks available without sending every page to a separate machine.
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6. Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 – Best for Flexible Office Printing
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840
13-by-19-inch maximum size
500-sheet paper capacity
Print, copy, scan, fax
Fast-drying DURABrite inks
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 is a wireless all-in-one wide-format inkjet printer with a 3.9 rating. It prints up to 13 by 19 inches, includes a 500-sheet paper capacity, and combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing. Its main appeal is straightforward office productivity supported by fast-drying DURABrite Ultra ink and extensive mobile-printing options.
Pros
- Large maximum output size
- High 500-sheet paper capacity
- Four-in-one document workflow
- Broad mobile printing support
- Fast-drying ink for smudge resistance
Cons
- Only 3.9 customer rating
- No touchscreen specified
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PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology helps the WF-7840 produce results quickly, while DURABrite Ultra pigment ink dries fast to reduce smudging. The 500-sheet capacity suits offices that prefer fewer paper-loading interruptions. Connectivity includes 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wireless, and Epson Connect Solutions provides mobile services such as Email Print, Remote Print, Smart Panel, iPrint, and Creative Print.
Users also gain Apple AirPrint, Android printing, and Mopria Print Service support, which is helpful in mixed-device environments. On the other hand, the supplied specifications do not identify a touchscreen, so navigation may be less refined than on the WF-7820 or several HP models. Its 3.9 rating is respectable but not exceptional against the 4.2 and 4.3 alternatives.
The WF-7840 is a good fit for a small business that wants a complete wide-format office device, substantial paper capacity, and broad mobile compatibility. It may be especially attractive for teams producing posters, layouts, signage, and multipage office documents. It is not the top choice for intensive photo work, but it delivers the core features at a more restrained focus.
Office Functions in One Wide-Format Unit
Print, copy, scan, and fax support a complete document workflow. Combining these functions in a single 13-by-19-inch machine can simplify desk space and reduce the need to move wide paper between separate devices.
Excellent Mobile Printing Compatibility
AirPrint, Android printing, Mopria, and Epson's own apps cover several common ways to send a job. This variety gives the printer broad utility for offices where staff use a mixture of computers, phones, and tablets.
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7. HP OfficeJet Pro 9135 – Best for Modern Office Workflows
HP OfficeJet Pro 9135
25 black pages per minute
20 color pages per minute
Two 250-sheet trays
Single-pass duplex ADF
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9135 is a wireless color all-in-one with a 4.0 rating and a clear focus on modern office productivity. Although its supplied listing emphasizes letter-size business documents rather than A3 media, it is included in this guide because its document handling, speed, connectivity, and workflow features offer useful lessons for buyers seeking a highly capable business printer.
Pros
- Fast 25-page black output
- Single-pass duplex document feeder
- Two full-size paper trays
- Large color touchscreen
- Smart web and email formatting
Cons
- Not specified as wide-format
- Instant Ink requires subscription
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Its standout hardware feature is the automatic document feeder with single-pass duplex scanning. The printer also supports automatic two-sided printing, copying, scanning, and faxing, while two 250-sheet input trays provide 500 sheets of capacity. A 4.3-inch color touchscreen and the HP app make common tasks accessible directly from the device or a smartphone.
HP AI is used to improve the formatting of web pages and emails by removing unwanted content and reducing awkward layouts. Dual-band Wi-Fi is designed to improve connection reliability, and HP Wolf Pro Security adds network protection. The Instant Ink trial can be convenient for owners comfortable with a delivery subscription, but it should not be confused with a permanently included lifetime ink program.
This model is best for small offices, studios, or administrative teams that prioritize fast output, duplex document handling, and easy digital workflows. It is not the right choice for someone whose main requirement is a wide-format A3 or tabloid printer. Within that narrower office role, however, it is modern, capable, and backed by a solid 4.0 rating.
Efficient Duplex Document Handling
Single-pass duplex scanning in the automatic document feeder reduces the need to reinsert pages when copying or scanning multipage documents. Automatic duplex printing complements that workflow, creating a more efficient path from digital file to finished output.
Smart Control and Connection
The phone-like 4.3-inch touchscreen, HP app, and dual-band Wi-Fi make the printer approachable for mixed device fleets. HP AI formatting can also reduce wasted paper when printing web pages and email content that would otherwise be poorly scaled.
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8. Brother INKvestment 6960 – Best for A3 Business Teams
Brother INKvestment 6960
11-by-17-inch maximum size
31 black pages per minute
50-page duplex ADF
500-sheet paper capacity
The Brother INKvestment 6960 is a wireless color inkjet all-in-one that supports paper up to 11 by 17 inches, commonly used for A3 and tabloid-size work. It combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing with a 4.2 rating. Fast output, extensive paper handling, and genuine A3 support make it one of the most practical choices for a small business.
Pros
- Fastest listed black print speed
- True 11-by-17-inch support
- Automatic duplex at wide size
- Large 500-sheet capacity
- Strong 4.2 customer rating
Cons
- Smaller than some displays
- Subscription trial may be unnecessary
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Brother specifies up to 31 pages per minute in black and 30 pages per minute in color, giving it the highest listed black speed in this group. The 500-sheet capacity is divided between two trays, and a 100-sheet multipurpose tray adds flexibility for less common media. Its 50-page single-pass duplex ADF can copy and scan double-sided documents, while automatic duplex printing extends to the full 11-by-17-inch size.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen provides direct control, and the Brother Mobile Connect app provides onscreen menu navigation for printing, copying, scanning, and device management. Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, USB, and cloud services including Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive add flexible ways to move files. Brother Genuine LC506 ink is the recommended supply, with a Refresh subscription trial included.
Choose the 6960 when a team needs genuine 11-by-17-inch output, fast throughput, and full duplex handling without moving to a more specialized photo printer. It is particularly compelling for real-estate documents, floor plans, presentations, spreadsheets, and marketing materials. Its balanced feature set, speed, and 4.2 rating justify its place near the top of this guide.
Fast Wide-Format Business Performance
The listed 31 black and 30 color pages per minute make the 6960 the fastest model here by black-page rating. That speed is valuable in shared offices where wide-format jobs should not monopolize the machine for long stretches.
Duplex Handling and Flexible Paper Trays
Two 250-sheet trays, a 100-sheet multipurpose tray, and a 50-page duplex ADF support a broad range of media and document workflows. Automatic duplex printing at 11-by-17 inches is especially notable for users producing large landscape documents.
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9. Epson WorkForce WF-7710 – Best for Borderless Wide-Format Work
Epson WorkForce WF-7710
13-by-19-inch maximum size
Borderless print capability
Print, copy, scan, fax
Automatic duplex printing
The Epson WorkForce WF-7710 earns the highest customer rating in the supplied group at 4.3. It is a wireless wide-format color inkjet all-in-one with printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, plus support for media up to 13 by 19 inches. The model is particularly attractive for users who want borderless output across oversized media.
Pros
- Highest listed customer rating
- Supports 13-by-19-inch media
- Borderless wide-format printing
- Complete four-in-one workflow
- Wi-Fi Direct and Ethernet
Cons
- Smaller 250-sheet tray
- Genuine cartridge restriction
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Its maximum paper size expands beyond the 11-by-17-inch format used by the Brother and HP wide-format models in this roundup. The 250-sheet tray can also hold up to 20 sheets of photo paper or 10 envelopes, offering useful flexibility for creative and mixed-media work. Automatic two-sided output is listed at 8.7 pages per minute in black and 6 pages per minute in color.
The trade-off is that 250 sheets of primary paper capacity is modest compared with the 500-sheet configurations offered by the WF-7310, WF-7840, Brother 6960, and HP OfficeJet Pro models. Epson also warns that its printing system is designed for Genuine Cartridges and that damage caused by non-genuine ink may not be covered by the limited warranty.
The WF-7710 is ideal for a home studio, photography-oriented workspace, or small office that prioritizes large, borderless color output and a complete document workflow. It may suit buyers who want more media size than a standard 11-by-17-inch machine. The 4.3 rating makes it one of the best-regarded options here, though paper capacity and cartridge policy deserve attention.
Large Borderless Creative Output
Support for 13-by-19-inch borderless prints gives the model an advantage for posters, photographic displays, and large graphic projects. The dedicated photo-paper capacity in the main tray further strengthens its creative appeal.
Four Functions with Flexible Networking
Printing, copying, scanning, and faxing cover common office needs, while Wi-Fi Direct and Ethernet provide flexible placement options. Automatic duplex printing adds convenience for documents that do not require the largest media size.
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10. HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 – Best for Wide-Format Color
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730
11-by-17-inch maximum size
22 black pages per minute
P3 wide color gamut
Two 250-sheet trays
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 is a wide-format wireless all-in-one with a 3.9 rating. It prints and scans up to 11 by 17 inches, performs copying and faxing, and combines two 250-sheet trays with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen. Its distinguishing creative feature is support for the P3 color gamut, which the listing describes as offering a wider range than sRGB.
Pros
- Wide-format 11-by-17-inch output
- Advanced P3 color gamut
- Single-pass duplex ADF
- Fast 22-page black output
- Large color touchscreen
Cons
- Modest 3.9 customer rating
- Instant Ink subscription structure
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Color accuracy is the model’s central appeal. HP positions it as capable of producing screen-accurate wide-format results for floor plans, mood boards, spreadsheets, presentations, brochures, and flyers. The printer reaches 22 pages per minute in black and 18 pages per minute in color, while its automatic document feeder supports single-pass duplex scanning and automatic two-sided printing.
The model also offers HP AI-assisted formatting for web pages and email, dual-band Wi-Fi, the HP app, and HP Wolf Pro Security. It is made with more than 30% recycled plastic content. As with the HP OfficeJet Pro 9135, the Instant Ink offer is a trial connected to a subscription-based delivery service, so users should evaluate it according to their actual ink-consumption pattern.
The 9730 is a good choice for offices that need wide-format color and a complete multifunction workflow, especially when color-intensive layouts are central to the work. It falls behind the Brother 6960 on listed black speed and paper capacity and behind Epson models that support 13-by-19-inch media. Its P3 color support and polished controls nevertheless make it a distinctive choice for design-conscious teams.
Expanded P3 Color Gamut
P3 support provides a wider color gamut than the standard sRGB space, making the 9730 appealing for mood boards, marketing pieces, and other work where nuanced color reproduction matters. It is a creative advantage within a printer designed primarily for office use.
Wide-Format Office Document Handling
Two 250-sheet trays, automatic duplex printing, and a single-pass duplex ADF support a substantial document workflow. The 11-by-17-inch maximum is large enough for spreadsheets, floor plans, presentations, and other wide-format business materials.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best A3 Printer
Choosing an A3 printer requires balancing maximum media size, paper handling, output quality, connectivity, and running considerations. The most important first step is identifying the documents you actually produce and the features you will use every week.
Maximum Paper Size
In short, choose the smallest maximum size that reliably covers your workload. Larger is not automatically better if the extra dimensions are never used.
Print Quality and Ink Technology
In short, prioritize a color system matched to your work: six colors for photos, pigment ink for documents, and P3 support for screen-oriented graphics.
Paper Capacity and Loading
In short, frequent users should look for multiple high-capacity trays, while occasional users may be comfortable with a smaller main tray and flexible rear feed.
Automatic Document Feeder and Duplexing
In short, check both feeder capacity and whether duplexing is automatic. A larger feeder without automatic two-sided handling may not save as much time as it appears.
Connectivity and Mobile Workflows
In short, use dual-band or direct wireless options for busy offices, but make sure your everyday devices and file services are directly supported.
Print Speed and Duty Cycle
In short, compare like-for-like speed claims and consider the duty cycle. High volume justifies a faster engine and larger paper system.
Ink System and Ongoing Supply
In short, choose a tank system for frequent printing and cartridge waste reduction, but verify supply restrictions and your real consumption pattern.
Controls, Security, and Setup
In short, choose controls large enough for your users and verify network-security features if the printer will handle sensitive office documents.
How to Use and Care for Your A3 Printer
Begin by confirming that the printer is placed on a flat, stable surface with enough clearance for its trays, rear feed, and output area. Load the appropriate wide-format media, select the correct paper type in the printer settings, and check that the loaded size matches the job. Before the first substantial print, run a small test page to verify alignment, color, and margins. For duplex jobs, use the automatic setting and ensure the main tray contains enough correctly oriented paper.
Keep ink or cartridges within the manufacturer's recommended range, and follow the supplied instructions for tank models when filling, sealing, or storing ink bottles. Clean the printhead, feed rollers, and scanner glass according to the manual, especially in dusty environments or after using specialty paper. Avoid abrasive cleaners and excess liquid on the scanner surface. Wide-format equipment benefits from regular maintenance because a small feed problem can affect large sheets and produce costly wasted output.
Run a cleaning cycle if you notice streaks, fading, or repeated marks, and keep the software and printer firmware updated through the manufacturer's approved channels. Schedule periodic test prints when the machine is idle, and store paper in a dry area away from direct sunlight. For office equipment, create a simple routine that checks paper levels, ink status, feeder condition, and queued jobs before a major deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an A3 printer the same as a wide-format printer?
A3 and wide format overlap, but they are not always exact synonyms. A3 is a specific paper dimension, while wide format describes printers that handle large media. Some wide-format models support A3 or 11-by-17-inch sheets, while others extend to 13-by-19 inches. Always check the maximum supported dimensions and the compatible media sizes before purchasing.
Do I need an A3 printer for occasional large documents?
If you only need a few large files occasionally, a print service may be more convenient and could avoid the cost of owning extra equipment. An A3 printer becomes more valuable when large documents appear regularly, when color proofing is important, or when physical output must be produced without sending files away. Consider frequency, paper volume, and workflow time before deciding.
Is a six-color printer better for photos?
A six-color system can produce smoother transitions and more nuanced color than a standard four-color arrangement. The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is the clearest photo-oriented model in this guide because it uses Claria ET Premium inks. Even with more colors, paper choice, driver settings, profiling, and room lighting still influence the final result.
What paper capacity do I need for an A3 printer?
The right capacity depends on the size and frequency of your jobs. A 250-sheet tray may be sufficient for occasional work, while two 250-sheet trays can be valuable for offices printing large batches. Specialty media may also need the rear or multipurpose tray, so compare not only total sheet count but also loading flexibility.
Are EcoTank printers suitable for a small business?
EcoTank systems can be well suited to small businesses and studios that print frequently because bottled ink avoids repeated cartridge changes and reduces cartridge waste. They require adequate storage and attention to ink levels. The Epson ET-15000, for example, also has a high stated duty cycle, while the ET-8550 emphasizes photo and creative output.
Does a wide-format printer need to be connected by USB?
No. Most of the models here support wireless printing, and many offer Wi-Fi Direct for direct use without a conventional network. Several also include Ethernet, USB, mobile apps, or cloud services. The best connection setup depends on office network requirements, device compatibility, security preferences, and how often employees print remotely.
Should I buy a single-function or all-in-one A3 printer?
A single-function printer may be sufficient when you only create physical output and already own separate scanning or copying equipment. An all-in-one is more practical for reports, records, and shared offices because it consolidates print, scan, copy, and sometimes fax functions. The Epson, Brother, Canon, and HP choices in this guide provide different combinations of these capabilities.
What should I verify before ordering an A3 printer?
Confirm the maximum sheet size, supported media types, duplex capability, paper capacity, connectivity, and available functions. Also review ink or cartridge restrictions, included accessories, and the current product listing. Because configurations and subscription offers can change, the final purchase should be based on the latest listing rather than an old review or saved product page.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best A3 Printer
The Brother INKvestment 6960 is the most balanced recommendation for a small business that values true 11-by-17-inch output, fast printing, 500-sheet capacity, and duplex document handling. The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is ideal for photographers and creative users who want richer color from a six-ink system, while the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 offers the strongest value-oriented combination of 13-by-19-inch printing, paper capacity, and speed.
The right alternative depends on your workload. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 suits high-volume supertank users, the Canon Pixma iX6820 favors compact wireless color printing, and the Epson WF-7820 and WF-7840 cover demanding office documents. For 13-by-19-inch creative output, the WF-7710 deserves consideration, while the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 stands out for wide-format P3 color and modern document features.
Before ordering, check current specifications, ink or cartridge policies, included accessories, and the latest configuration. Ratings provide a useful reference but should not replace matching the printer to your paper sizes, monthly volume, color needs, and document workflow. Availability and prices can change, so confirm the current listing and warranty details at the time of purchase.