Review: Best Printers for Art Prints (2026 Update)
Whether you are an illustrator or a photographer, these machines deliver gallery-quality results at home.
Note: We update this guide annually. These are the top performers for 2026 based on color gamut, paper handling, and ink costs.
Printing art is different than printing documents. You need a machine that can handle heavy cardstock, reproduce subtle color gradients, and use archival inks that won't fade. Here are our top picks for this year.
1. Canon PIXMA PRO-200 (Best Overall Value)
The Verdict: Still the king of the "prosumer" market. It uses an 8-color dye-based ink system that produces vibrant, punchy colors.
Best For: Illustrators and glossy photo prints. It handles borderless printing up to A3+ size perfectly.
2. Epson SureColor P700 (Best for Black & White)
The Verdict: If you print black and white photography, this is your machine. It has dedicated "Carbon Black" technology for deep, rich blacks.
Best For: Fine art photography and matte papers.
What to Look For
- Ink System: Look for 8 or more cartridges. CMYK isn't enough for art.
- Paper Feed: Ensure it has a "rear feed" or "manual feed" slot. Heavy art paper will jam in a standard bottom tray.
- Size: Can it print 13x19"? This is the standard size for selling prints.
Conclusion
Investing in a pro-grade printer allows you to control your quality and margins. While we handle the large-format and commercial printing here at iCustomLabel, these machines are perfect for your home studio needs.
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