A3 Printers Review

The main feature of A3 printers is the ability to print larger graphics and documents.  Unlike the standard A4 models that take 8 1/2 X 11” paper, the larger models can produce graphics and photos as large as 13 X 19”. They do take up more space than the typical printer that sits on the desk top.  The top of a shorter filing cabinet or a separate stand may be needed to use one of these models in your office.  One of the main benefits to owning one of these versatile machines is that they yield much more vivid graphics.  The larger versions are helpful for presentations and lectures where groups of people must be able to view materials.  While they do well with graphics, the ability to print typical A4 size documents is still an option.  Costs for these larger models have dropped significantly.  A device for home use can cost as little as $50.

The HP inkjet 7000 is a useful model that can be found for as little as $150.  You will still have better quality prints and graphics than with a standard home model.  Used with a quality digital camera, you can make lab quality photos and save hundreds on family portraits.  You can event print a love one's favorite snapshot and frame it for a gift.  Epson, Canon, Konica and others offer models of this size as well. The most expensive models with various functions can cost as much as $600.

When selecting an A3 printer, the specific printing needs must be considered.  Just like other smaller models, there are various features and additional functions available.  Costs for basic models are much less than for higher quality offerings.  An A3 colour laser printer can cost as much as $15,000, depending on the manufacturer.  Typically the more expensive models are meant for large printing jobs.  Some can produce as much as 50 sheets per minute and store over 5,000 sheets in the paper tray.  However, there are some excellent models for under $500.  Many other brands are available if an A3 laser printer is what you want.  Names like Konica, Minolta and Ricoh are just a few.  Ricoh and Konica are trusted names in copiers and supplies, so you can expect quality and reliability.

An excellent model for a variety of graphics needs is the HP A3 printer, model 1220 C. This machine can be used by engineers, architects, realtors, insurance adjusters, designers and builders, or any other professional who wants larger, crisp, detailed photos or drawings.  The cost is typically around #350 to $400, depending upon where the machine is purchased.  Another wonderful A3 inkjet printer to consider is the Epson Stylus Photo 1400.  It features 6 different color tanks which contain Claria photo quality inks.  Features like advanced color management make this a great option for the photographer or for printing realistic looking brochures and advertising.  For under $250, it is simply a great value in an A3 photo printer. 

Of course, for printing large quantities of printed advertising material, a laser model may be the best solution.  This would be more appropriate for marketing purposes or serious advertising campaigns and more applicable to business use.  A multiple function machine, such as an A3 printer scanner, can save space and time.  It can eliminate the need for an additional device that will take up more space.  It will also help save time moving from one work station to another, and help reduce the clutter of multiple power cords.  Such models also have great networking capabilities, for the office where more than one worker will need printing capabilities.  Scanned documents will have different qualities, depending on the model.  It is wise to consider the main functions or uses, when considering the purchase of any A3 printers especially A3 colour printer models.