Architects do a very complicated job, so anything that makes their life easier is very welcome.
While most of us are happy with a standard A4 printer, architects require something a bit different to meet all their needs.
Today, we are looking at the best A3 printer for architects. An A3 format printer gives an architect the freedom to print the designs on larger-sized papers to present them to their clients.
Additionally, they allow for the handling of different types of media and a range of connectivity options.
Finally, these architect printers will produce the accurate fine lines that let architects sleep easier at night.
Top A3 Printer for Architects in 2023 by Editors' Picks
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Contents
- Top A3 Printer for Architects in 2023 by Editors' Picks
- Comparison Table for Top A3 Printers for Architects
- Top 5 Best A3 Printer for Architects: Reviews 2023
- Buying Guide for the Best A3 Printer For Architects
- What Is an A3 Printer and What Are Its Benefits for Architects and Designers
- Benefits of Using a A3 Printer For Architects
- Expert Tips for Maintaining Your A3 Printer For Architects
- FAQs about A3 Printers for Architects
- Conclusion for A3 Printer Architects
- Related posts
Comparison Table for Top A3 Printers for Architects
| Product Name | Main Features | Our Score |
|---|---|---|
| | Brother MFC-J5330DW
Price Check | |
 | Canon Pixma iX6820
Price Check | |
 | HP OfficeJet Pro 7740
Price Check | |
 | Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000
Price Check | |
 | Epson WorkForce WF-7720
Price Check |
Top 5 Best A3 Printer for Architects: Reviews 2023
1. Brother MFC-J5330DW | Best 11×17 Printer For Architects
The Brother MFC-J5330DW is a wonderful A3 printer scanner copier machine. All your printing and general office needs are solved on one machine.
With a monthly duty cycle of 30,000 sheets, this A3 size printer has little chance of breaking down or becoming prone to paper jams.
The 4800×1200 dpi resolution is more than enough to ensure that you get detailed prints with clear lines and crisp text. Just make sure you have the printer on the optimum settings when you want to print your final work.
Your work or home office will greatly improve workflow thanks to printing speeds - 22 pages per minute in black and 20 pages per minute in color.
Finally, you don't even need your own Wi-Fi connection set up as this A3 inkjet printer runs with Wi-Fi Direct.
Pros
- Maximum print size of 11×17 inches (borderless)
- Automatic Document Feeder of 50 sheets saves you time
- 2.7 touchscreen lets you easily navigate the printer options
- Fantastic print speeds, including 20 pages per minute in color
Cons
- Better for black printing than for color
- Handles 11×17 print media, but not in duplex
2. Canon Pixma iX6820 | Best Printer For Architects
Canon is always a brand that needs consideration when looking for A3 printer scanners.
You are getting an inkjet printer with a color resolution of 9600×2400 dpi at a very affordable price. Not only that, this is a printer that offers a much wider format print than most others at a similar price. 13×19 inch borderless printing is a great extra you are receiving here.
This Google Cloud Print enabled printer is especially good if you are looking to print glossy paper. The inclusion of a pigment black cartridge is testament to that idea, as this cartridge will ensure much deeper blacks.
In a profession that relies upon accuracy of detail, a reliably accurate architectural printer is required. Ink droplet size is, therefore, of great importance. This printer lets you choose to print with a droplet size of 1, 2, or 5 picoliters.
The smaller droplet size can be used for your final presentation prints and a larger size for printing rough work. You can check pixma pro 100 & pixma ix6520 too.
Pros
- High resolution, wide format printers for architects
- Incredible line accuracy with ink droplet sizes as little as 1 picoliter
- Comes with a range of Canon extras, including My Image Garden
- Print to a maximum 13×19 inch print media
Cons
- Setup can be difficult with Macs
- The wireless function can be temperamental
3. HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 | Best 11×17 Inkjet Printer For Architects
HP is a brand known worldwide, and for a good reason. This printer for architectural drawings is something of a dream with the number of features it possesses. It differentiated itself from the competition.
This printer features a duplex printing option for a start, which is always useful for those who require many double-sided printouts.
Additionally, this 4800x1200dpi resolution color inkjet printer boasts two input trays. That means you don't waste time swapping out your A3 and A4 paper as you need them. Both paper sizes can be loaded at the same time.
Connectivity options is another area that HP has thought about. Sometimes it's just simpler to plug in a USB and print rather than connect to and log into devices.
However, should you be an avid fan of using Apple products, you can connect your Mac, iPad, or whatever else you own through using Apple AirPrint.
Pros
- All-in-one printer color inkjet printer that includes duplex printing
- Borderless printing up to an impressive 11×17 inches
- Includes two input trays of 250 sheets so you can easily alternate print media
- Connect your USB directly to print your work
- Energy-efficient printer with ENERGY STAR certification
Cons
- The software prevents 3rd party cartridges
- High ink costs from HP
4. Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 | Best A3 Printer
Epson creates A3 paper size printers that any architect would love to use as they go about their daily work.
Boasting the largest printing area of the printers we are reviewing, you can use print media up to 13×44 inches by using the rear input tray. This means you can keep your A4 or letter-sized print media in the front input tray.
A 1.5 picoliter ink droplet size is not the smallest size we have found but will still be extremely effective in ensuring accurate, thin lines on your work. A standard printer is likely to have more than double the size ink droplet.
Connectivity options are available in abundance with this printer set up for iOS device users through Apple AirPrint and Android devices and associated apps.
Don't forget, Epson always has a range of their own connection solutions and helpful apps that you will undoubtedly benefit from.
Pros
- Huge maximum printable area of 13×44 inches including 13×19 inches borderless
- High degree of printing accuracy from 1.5 picoliter ink droplets
- Larger 6-individual cartridge set up for superior color printing
- Front feed and rear feed output trays let you use varied print media
Cons
- No setup manual
- Requires regular calibration
5. Epson WorkForce WF-7720 | Best 13×19 Printers For Architects
Another printer from Epson now, as we come to the end of our reviews. The last Epson printer we looked at was from the higher end of the market, while this model is for those who require something more basic.
While still a color inkjet printer, you'll be getting a 4-individual cartridge configuration. This is beneficial to people who want to reduce the amount they are spending on color cartridges.
A benefit you do find, even on this entry-level printer, is the extra input tray. With tray one and tray two allowing you to load up 250 sheets of A3 and A4 paper simultaneously, the third tray is there for individual sheets of specialist print media to be used.
Finally, with a 20,000-page monthly duty cycle, don't mislead yourself into thinking that more basic features mean a less robust printer. This printer is still built to last.
Pros
- Three input trays, with tray 3 for 13×47.2 inch print media
- 4.3-inch touch screen gives you easy access to your printer settings
- Duplex printing & auto document feeder saves you both time and paper in the long term
- Heavy use printer with 20,000-page monthly duty cycle
Cons
- The printer has difficulty recognizing paper types
- It uses a lot of ink
Buying Guide for the Best A3 Printer For Architects
When looking for a wide format printer to enable you to print on A3 paper, there are certain requirements the printer should meet. In this guide, we look at which features help make a specific model the best A3 printer for architects.
Resolution
The standard printer resolution on more affordable models is 4800×1200 or 4800×2400 dpi. That resolution is not bad, and with high-resolution files being printed, you should still get good quality prints.
If you want a cheaper printer and that kind of resolution suits you, consider the Epson WorkForce WF-7720, the HP OfficeJet Pro 7740, and the Brother MFC-J5330DW for printing your work.
Should you have a higher budget, then the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 offers 5760×1440 dpi resolution, which is certainly an improvement on the entry-level models.
However, if you want to get an extremely high resolution, the best option is the Canon PIXMA ix6820 with its 9600x2400dpi.
Paper Sizes
With a wide format printer, you will be getting something that can print larger than the standard A4 paper. But just how large can you go?
The Canon PIXMA ix6820 offers a 13×19 inches print (including borderless), as does the Epson WorkForce WF-7720. Offering equal width of 13 inches is the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000. However, this Epson model has a special feature allowing you to print up to 44 inches in length.
The Brother MFC-J533oDW offers a slightly smaller input of 11×17 inches, and the HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 is similar to the Brother with its 11.7×17 inches. Both still meet the requirements of any architect or photographer working with A3 paper.
Level of Detail
Ink droplet size can help increase the level of detail, optimum image generating system and even line accuracy, which is so important for an architect.
By far, the best printers for the accuracy you are looking for are the Canon PIXMA iX6820 which offers a one picoliter ink droplet size, and the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 which offers a slightly larger 1.5 picoliter droplet.
Monthly Duty Cycle
Should you require a printer that will deliver a high workload throughout the month, you need to check the monthly duty cycle.
Printers designed for more creative work tend to have lower duty cycles, so don't expect to get thousands of prints a month from the Canon PIXMA iX6820 or Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000.
However, if you are willing to sacrifice a bit of print quality for a printer that will get through a lot of work, consider either the Brother MFC-J5330DW (30,0000 pages per month) or the Epson WorkForce WF-7720 (20,000 pages per month).
What Is an A3 Printer and What Are Its Benefits for Architects and Designers
Architectural Designers and Architects working in the construction industry should always stay on top of new technologies coming out, as these will often result in better, faster or cheaper ways to get things done. Understanding how a change may impact your organization should be a key part of your specialization. That's why understanding what Specialized Digital Color Printers are, their main benefits and what types of Architectural Designers are most likely to use them is important.
ADC, or A3 printers as they are also known, are specialized digital color printers that produce the best color prints on paper up to A3 size for large format printing. They usually work with pigment-based inks which results in excellent image quality and durability of the printouts. These printers can be used by Architects, Construction Managers or Quantity Surveyors alike. Their primary purpose is to provide Digital As Built Documentation (DAC). However they may be used for presentations too.
A typical ADC has specific features that set it apart from your average office printer:
- It can print on a variety of media including glossy photo paper, coated and uncoated papers;
- It can print A3 drawings without margins even on wide format rolls;
- It offers the highest possible color quality and high speed of printing.
These printers are often part of special printing stations that consist either of one printer and a separate scanner (print/scan station), or a combined all-in-one device that offers scanning, faxing and copying too. These stations usually come with specific software that allows for quick file saving as PDFs plus other useful features such as direct uploading to cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive as well as remote printing capabilities. They also allow for integration with third party BIM management solutions. However some A3 printers may not offer these additional features.
Example of a print/scan station. Such devices are often used in large facilities which have more than one branch or store.
According to the US Department of Labor, there are over 50,000 Architectural Designers working in the United States. A3 printers will be most useful for those who work with construction documents on a daily basis and need to provide Digital As Built Documentation (DAC) as part of their job responsibilities. Those responsible for DAC process should always stay on top of new technologies as they may impact not only quality but also cost and speed of production. Unfortunately this means that many small or even medium size architectural firms do not use A3 printers simply because they never had to - until now! However thanks to first-rate print at reasonable prices, Architectural Designers and Architects working in the construction industry should consider investing in A3 printers or even all-in-one printing stations. This could be a great opportunity to expand their business and offer better service to construction project stakeholders and employers - who may not want to print hundreds of drawings on their own printers and need a quick turnaround time.
A3 printers may be utilized by Construction Managers or Quantity Surveyors that work with DAC related issues on a daily basis or need to provide Digital As Built Documentation as part of their job responsibilities too. However you should keep in mind that for those roles an A3 printer would not be as necessary as it will be for an Architect or an Architectural Designer.
A3 printers also are great additions to any architectural firm, construction company and all types of design offices that need to provide Digital As Built Documentation. You can either buy new devices or use third-party printing and scanning stations which may offer additional features such as uploading to cloud services or remote printing. These printers will allow you to save time, money and offer better service to construction project stakeholders and employers that need architectural drawings fast.
Benefits of Using a A3 Printer For Architects
If you are an architect, then you know that having a reliable and high-quality printer is essential. After all, you need to be able to produce clear and accurate drawings and plans for your clients. And, when it comes to finding a printer that can do all of this, an A3 printer is definitely the way to go. Here are just some of the benefits of using an A3 printer for your architectural needs:
1. They print at a higher quality.
A3 printers are designed to print at a higher quality than standard printers. This means that your drawings and plans will be much more precise and detailed. Additionally, they use finer inks which results in sharper images and text.
2. They are faster.
Another great benefit of using an A3 printer is that they are much faster than standard printers. This means that you will be able to get your prints done in a fraction of the time, which is ideal when you have deadlines to meet.
3. They are more versatile.
A3 printers are also more versatile than standard printers. This means that they can handle a variety of different paper sizes and types. Additionally, they often come with additional features such as duplex printing, which allows you to print on both sides of the paper at once.
4. They are more affordable.
Despite their many benefits, A3 printers are actually very affordable. This is especially true when you compare them to other high-end printers on the market.
5. They are easy to find.
A3 printers are widely available and can be easily found online or at your local office supply store. However, before making your purchase, be sure to do some research to find the best deal.
If you are an architect in need of a reliable and high-quality printer, then an A3 printer is definitely the way to go. With their many benefits, they are sure to meet all of your printing needs.
Expert Tips for Maintaining Your A3 Printer For Architects
As an architect, you know that having a reliable and high-quality A3 printer is essential to your business. After all, you need to be able to produce detailed drawings and plans that are accurate and professional-looking.
But what you may not know is that there are some expert tips that can help you keep your A3 printer in top condition. By following these tips, you can ensure that your machine will always be ready to produce the high-quality prints that you need.
Here are four expert tips for maintaining your A3 printer:
1. Use the right paper
One of the most important things that you can do to maintain your A3 printer is to use the right paper. Architectural drawings and plans are typically printed on heavyweight paper that is designed for use with A3 printers.
If you try to use regular copy paper in your A3 printer, you may experience jams, poor print quality, or even damage to your machine. To avoid these problems, make sure to always use the correct type of paper in your A3 printer.
2. Keep it clean
Another important tip for maintaining your A3 printer is to keep it clean. Just like any other piece of machinery, your printer can accumulate dust and dirt over time. If left unchecked, this build-up can cause problems with your machine's performance.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to regularly clean both the outside and inside of your A3 printer. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust off the exterior of your machine, and use compressed air to clean out the interior components.
3. Perform regular maintenance
In addition to keeping your A3 printer clean, it's also important to perform regular maintenance on your machine. This may include replacing the ink cartridges or toner, as well as calibrating the machinery.
By performing regular maintenance, you can help ensure that your A3 printer always produces high-quality prints.
4. Store it properly
When you're not using your A3 printer, it's important to store it properly. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place that is free from dust and dirt.
Additionally, it's a good idea to cover your printer with a dust cover when it's not in use. This will help protect your machine from the elements and keep it clean between uses.
By following these expert tips, you can help ensure that your A3 printer always produces high-quality prints. By taking good care of your machine, you can avoid costly repairs and downtime.
FAQs about A3 Printers for Architects
What printer would an architect use?
An architect needs a printer that will print in wide format for A3 paper and larger. Equally, an architect wants a printer capable of producing fine lines. Any of the printers we've looked at from Brother, Canon, HP, and Epson would not be out of place in an architect's office.
What is A3 printing?
A3 paper is a larger paper of 11.69×16.53 inches. It is a common type of paper size used by architects who need to display their designs.
Standard printers usually print on A4 paper. Therefore, a wide-format printer is required for printing on larger print media.
Do A3 printers also print a4?
An A3 printer can print on A4. You just need to make sure you have the correct size paper selected in your printer options when printing.
If you buy a printer with dual input trays, you can load one with A4 paper and the other with A3.
Buy on Etsy, eBay, Walmart (limited quantity)
Canon PIXMA PRO-200 Wireless Professional Color Photo Printer, Prints up to 13"X 19", - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Color Professional Inkjet Printer with Airprint and Mobile - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Epson EcoTank ET-4760 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
WorkForce WF-7210 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer with Wi-Fi Direct and - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Brother MFC-J5330DW All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Wireless Connectivity, Automatic - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Conclusion for A3 Printer Architects
We've been looking at the best A3 printer for architects, and we've found a great bunch that does exactly what every architect needs.
Coming from Brother, Canon, HP, and Epson, these printers offer you wide format printing, and each has at least one extra feature that makes each printer stand out individually.
Now you need to consider the following: Do you want a printer with a high resolution? Or perhaps you want one that can pump out thousands of pages a day? What is the ink droplet size that will work best for you?
Whichever printer you go for, you are sure to find quality.
