Vinyl printers are an essential tool for those who want to create custom designs on vinyl sheets. These printers are designed to print high-quality images and text on vinyl, making them ideal for creating signs, banners, and other promotional materials. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which vinyl printer is the best fit for your needs.
When shopping for a vinyl printer, the critical thing to consider is the type of vinyl you will be using. Some printers are designed to work with only specific types of vinyl, so it's essential to ensure that the printer you choose is compatible with the vinyl you plan to use. Other factors to consider include the printer's print quality, speed, and connectivity options.
To help you find the best vinyl printer for your needs, we've tested and reviewed several models. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top vinyl printers on the market and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you're a professional graphic designer or a hobbyist, we've got you covered.
Best Vinyl Printers
If you're looking to create custom designs on vinyl, a vinyl printer is an essential tool to have. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That's why we've rounded up the best vinyl printers to help you make an informed decision. From high-end models to budget-friendly options, we've got you covered. So, whether you're a professional designer or just starting out, read on to find the perfect vinyl printer for you.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy
If you're looking for a basic home printer that's fast, affordable, and easy to use, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a great choice. With its innovative cartridge-free system, you can worry less about running out of ink and save a lot on replacement ink. The ET-2800 features genuine Epson print quality, a high-resolution flatbed scanner, and a convenient color display.
Pros
- Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― High-capacity ink tanks mean no more tiny, expensive ink cartridges; Epson’s exclusive EcoFit ink bottles make filling easy and worry-free.
- Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color, equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges.
- Stress-Free Printing — Up to 2 years of ink in the box – and with every replacement ink set – for fewer out of ink frustrations.
Cons
- Limited Connectivity Options ― Wired and wireless connectivity are available, but no mobile printing capability.
- Slow Print Speeds ― The maximum print speed is only 10 pages per minute for monochrome and 5 pages per minute for color.
- Limited Paper Size Options ― The maximum paper size is 8.5 x 14 inches.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a reliable and cost-effective printer that's perfect for basic home use. It eliminates the need for expensive cartridges and offers impressive print quality, a high-resolution scanner, and a convenient color display. While it may not be the fastest printer on the market and has limited connectivity and paper size options, it's a great choice if you're looking for an affordable and reliable basic printer.
HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer
If you're looking for a budget-friendly, high-volume printer that delivers quality prints, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a great option.
Pros
- With up to 2 years of ink included, you won't have to worry about running out of ink anytime soon.
- The self-healing Wi-Fi feature makes connectivity issues a thing of the past.
- The easy-access, spill-free refill system makes replenishing ink a breeze.
Cons
- The printer is a bit bulky and may take up more space than you'd like.
- It's not the fastest printer on the market, so if speed is a priority, this may not be the best option for you.
- The printer doesn't have automatic duplexing, so you'll have to manually flip pages to print on both sides.
The HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a reliable all-in-one printer that offers a variety of features to make printing, scanning, and copying a breeze. With its high-capacity ink tank system, you'll be able to print up to 6,000 black or color pages right out of the box, making it a great option for home or small office use.
In addition to its impressive ink capacity, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 also offers wireless connectivity, mobile printing capabilities, and a variety of other features to make your printing experience as seamless as possible. The printer's smart-guided buttons illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan, and copy tasks, while the HP Smart app allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, wherever you are.
While the HP Smart-Tank 5000 may not be the fastest printer on the market, it delivers quality prints and is a great option for those who need to print large volumes of documents. Its sustainable design, made from 45% recycled plastic, also makes it an eco-friendly choice. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use printer, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is definitely worth considering.
VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine
If you're looking for a vinyl printer that can handle various materials, the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a great option.
Pros
- With its cutting capacity of 14 inches, this vinyl printer can handle a wide range of materials.
- The illuminated LCD screen and large control panel make it easy to control and adjust the cutting pressure and speed.
- The VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is compatible with both COMPIM and USB interfaces and supports DM/PL, HP/GL language.
Cons
- The vinyl printer is not compatible with the Mac system.
- Some users have reported difficulty with the initial setup and operation.
- The machine does not have a Final Cut to cut the vinyl you've worked on to take it away from the machine.
The VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of materials, including sticker and decal vinyl, masking film for painting or etching, scrapbook papers, card stock, and various T-shirt heat transfer media. With its cutting precision of +/-0.01 mm and paper feed precision of 3 m, you can trust that your designs will come out perfectly.
The ARM motherboard and 16 MB high-speed cache memory ensure trustworthy performance, and the two double-spring pinch rollers and aluminum knurling stick ensure that the paper feed will not deviate by long distance. The vinyl printer also has cutting pressure 10-500g adjustable, and cutting speed 10-800 mm/s adjustable, giving you precise digital control over your designs.
While the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is not compatible with the Mac system, it is available with both COMPIM and USB interfaces for more precise control. The vinyl printer supports DM/PL, HP/GL language, and is compatible with Pentium processor-based PC or compatible computer (Windows), Windows XP/VISTA/7/8/10 (32&64).
Overall, if you're looking for a vinyl printer that can handle various materials and give you digital precise control over your designs, the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a great option.
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format 24-inch Color Plotter Printer
Looking for a printer that can produce professional quality technical line-drawings, renders, posters, and detailed map prints? The HP DesignJet T210 is a popular choice among architects, engineers, geographic firms, and construction professionals.
Pros
- High-speed printing as fast as 45 seconds per A1/D plot.
- Print multi-size projects automatically, without needing to manually switch the media source.
- Uses up to 95% less ink for routine maintenance vs. some competitor plotter printers.
Cons
- Some users have experienced printer head problems.
- Installation issues have been reported by some users.
- Print quality is not exceptional.
The HP DesignJet T210 is designed to fit your office and budget, with the world's smallest plotters. The printer also comes with a 2-year Warranty Care Pack that includes comprehensive large format device protection with enhanced coverage, including remote technical support, onsite support, and HP parts.
With the HP Click software included, you can create beautiful, professional quality posters for free, without any graphic design experience required. Choose from professionally designed templates or millions of free and premium photos, vector graphics, or pattern designs.
The HP Smart app allows you to print your jobs and manage your plotter from virtually anywhere, anytime. You'll also get high-quality results with HP Bright Office Inks that plot up to 31% more line accuracy and up to 65% more gamut.
While some users have experienced printer head problems and installation issues, the HP DesignJet T210 is a simple and cost-effective solution for printing technical line-drawings, blueprints, posters, indoor signage, maps, sewing patterns, and other professional wide or large format prints.
In summary, if you're looking for a printer that can print multi-size projects automatically and fits your office and budget, the HP DesignJet T210 could be a good choice for you. However, if you require exceptional print quality, you may want to consider other options.
HP DesignJet T650 Large Format 36-inch Plotter Color Printer
If you're looking for a printer that can handle technical line-drawings with precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, the HP DesignJet T650 could be an excellent choice. It's popular among architects, engineers, and construction professionals who need high-quality wide or large format prints.
Pros
- The printer comes with a 2-year Warranty Care Pack that includes onsite and remote support, HP parts, and as fast as next business day device service if your issue can’t be resolved.
- You can print multi-size projects automatically, without needing to manually switch the media source, which is a cost-saving efficiency.
- The HP Smart app allows you to manage your large format printing and printer virtually anywhere and anytime from your smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer.
Cons
- At 76 pounds, this printer is quite heavy and may not be easy to move around.
- The printer's print speed of up to 25 seconds per page on A1/D size may not be fast enough for some users.
- The printer is quite expensive, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
The HP DesignJet T650 has some great features that make it a good choice for professionals who need high-quality wide or large format prints. The printer's 2-year Warranty Care Pack is a great bonus, and the HP Smart app makes it easy to manage your printing from anywhere. However, the printer is quite heavy and expensive, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
HP DesignJet T630 Large Format Wireless Plotter Color Printer - 24"
If you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use large format printer, the HP DesignJet T630 is a great option.
Pros
- With high-speed printing as fast as 30 seconds per A1/D plot, you can avoid waiting by the printer and be more productive.
- The HP Smart app allows you to print your jobs and manage your plotter from virtually anywhere, anytime.
- The printer is designed to fit your office and budget, with space-saving features and the use of up to 95% less ink for routine maintenance.
Cons
- The printer is designed for technical line-drawings, renders requiring precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, posters, and detailed map prints, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a more versatile printer.
- The printer is relatively expensive compared to other large format printers on the market.
- The printer is quite heavy, weighing 64 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around if needed.
The HP DesignJet T630 is a great choice for architects, engineers, geographic firms, and construction professionals who need a reliable and easy-to-use large format printer. The printer is designed to fit your office and budget, with space-saving features and the use of up to 95% less ink for routine maintenance. With high-speed printing as fast as 30 seconds per A1/D plot, you can avoid waiting by the printer and be more productive. The HP Smart app allows you to print your jobs and manage your plotter from virtually anywhere, anytime.
However, the printer is designed for technical line-drawings, renders requiring precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, posters, and detailed map prints, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a more versatile printer. Additionally, the printer is relatively expensive compared to other large format printers on the market. Finally, the printer is quite heavy, weighing 64 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around if needed.
Overall, if you're in need of a reliable and easy-to-use large format printer for technical line-drawings, renders requiring precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, posters, and detailed map prints, the HP DesignJet T630 is a great choice.
HP DesignJet T630 (T600 Series) Large Format Wireless Plotter Printer - 36"
If you're an architect, engineer, or construction professional looking for a printer that can handle technical line-drawings, renders requiring precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, posters, and detailed map prints, then the HP DesignJet T630 might be right for you.
Pros
- Print up to 2x faster with high-speed printing as fast as 30 seconds per A1/D plot.
- Create professional quality posters for free with HP Click software.
- Save space with the world's smallest plotters designed to fit your office.
Cons
- The printer is quite heavy, weighing 77 pounds.
- Some customers have reported issues with drivers and the HP app.
- The printer is quite expensive compared to other options on the market.
The HP DesignJet T630 is a powerful printer that can handle a variety of different tasks. With the ability to print up to 2x faster than other printers, you can get your work done quickly and efficiently. The HP Click software also allows you to create professional quality posters for free, without any graphic design experience required.
One of the downsides of the HP DesignJet T630 is its weight. At 77 pounds, it can be difficult to move around, so it's important to find a permanent spot for it in your office. Some customers have also reported issues with drivers and the HP app, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase.
Overall, the HP DesignJet T630 is a great option if you're looking for a powerful printer that can handle a variety of different tasks. While it may be expensive compared to other options on the market, it's worth the investment if you need a printer that can handle technical line-drawings, renders requiring precise, accurate line-quality and crisp text, posters, and detailed map prints.
HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer
If you're looking for an affordable printer that can handle high-volume printing, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With up to 2 years of Original HP Ink included in the box, this printer is perfect for low-cost, high-volume printing.
- The HP Smart app allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, wherever you are.
- The self-healing Wi-Fi automatically detects and resolves connection issues, making connectivity more reliable.
Cons
- The printer setup guide could be more user-friendly.
- The installation of the print cartridge can be challenging for some users.
- It's not the fastest printer on the market.
If you're looking for a printer that can handle everyday color documents in high volumes, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a smart choice. With up to 2 years of Original HP Ink included in the box, you can print up to 6,000 black or color pages right out of the box. The HP Smart app also makes it easy to print, scan, and copy from your phone, wherever you are. However, the printer setup guide could be more user-friendly, and some users may find the installation of the print cartridge challenging. Additionally, it's not the fastest printer on the market. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable, affordable printer that can handle high-volume printing, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is definitely worth considering.
VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine
Looking for a vinyl printer that can handle a variety of materials and comes with a range of features? The VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine might be just what you need.
Pros
- Efficient digital control for quick adjustments to speed and force
- Precise scale and cutting precision for superior sharpness and accurate sizing
- High compatibility with most versions of Windows and other software
Cons
- Poor quality vinyl that comes with the machine
- Customer service can be slow to respond to warranty claims
- Software can be difficult to use for those with limited design experience
This vinyl printer boasts a range of features that make it a great choice for those looking to create designs on a variety of materials. The efficient digital control allows for quick adjustments to speed and force, while the precise scale and cutting precision ensure superior sharpness and accurate sizing. Plus, the machine is highly compatible with most versions of Windows and other software, making it easy to use with your existing setup.
However, some customers have reported poor quality vinyl that comes with the machine, which can be frustrating for those looking to get started right away. Additionally, customer service can be slow to respond to warranty claims, which can be a concern for those who rely on their equipment for business purposes. Finally, the software can be difficult to use for those with limited design experience, which may require additional training or resources to fully take advantage of the machine's capabilities.
Overall, the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile vinyl printer with a range of features. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.
VEVOR Off-line Vinyl Cutter Machine 870mm Vinyl Printer U-Disk, 34 inch Plotter Printer with Accessories & Floor Stand Vinyl Cutting Machine Adjustable Force and Speed for Sign Making Plotter Cutter
If you're looking for a versatile vinyl cutter that can handle a variety of materials, the VEVOR Off-line Vinyl Cutter Machine is a solid choice. With its cutting precision of +/-0.01 mm, you can be sure that your designs will come out just the way you want them.
Pros
- The plotter cutter vinyl has a cutting precision of +/-0.01 mm (0.0004"), ensuring that your designs come out just the way you want them.
- It supports offline control and can be programmed directly by inserting a U Disk.
- The vinyl machine comes with an illuminated LCD screen and a large control panel for digital precise control.
Cons
- The vinyl cutter is not compatible with the Mac system.
- The software can be difficult to work with.
- The vinyl that comes with the machine is not suitable for T-shirts.
This vinyl cutter is perfect for those who need a versatile machine that can handle a variety of materials. It can cut sticker and decal vinyl, masking film for painting or etching, scrapbook papers, card stock, as well as various T-shirt heat transfer media like PU vinyl, flock, Magi Cut colored paper, and more.
The VEVOR Off-line Vinyl Cutter Machine also has a maximum paper feed of 870 mm (34.3"), the maximum cutting width of 780 mm (30.7"), and paper feed precision of 3 m (118"). It is available with COMPIM and USB interface for more precise control and supports DM/PL, HP/GL language.
Overall, if you're looking for a vinyl cutter that offers digital precise control, offline operation, and can handle a variety of materials, the VEVOR Off-line Vinyl Cutter Machine is a solid choice.
VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine
If you're looking for a vinyl printer that can produce precise cuts and is compatible with both MAC and Windows systems, the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a great option for you.
Pros
- The machine has a max feed width of 14.8 inches and a max cutting width of 11.2 inches, making it efficient for larger projects.
- The vinyl cutter comes with three adjustable double-spring pinch rollers and aluminum knurled rods that ensure the vinyl plotter feeds paper steadily without paper jam.
- The vinyl printer includes signcut and signmaster software that works with MAC and Windows via USB or serial port. It also supports other software such as graph-cut and flexi.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the vinyl cutter doesn't always cut designs fully, which may leave some rough edges.
- There are no instructions for the onboard menu, and the diagram showed something that didn't work.
- The instructions show USB settings that do not exist.
The VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is well-designed with a desktop frame that saves space and is easy to carry. The rounded corners prevent scratching, making it more aesthetically pleasing. The vinyl plotter cutter machine is widely used in many areas that you can apply to advertise engraving, heat transfer lettering film, etc.
If you're looking for a vinyl printer that is efficient, precise, and compatible with both MAC and Windows systems, the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine is a great option.
HP ENVY Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Thermal Inkjet Printer
If you're looking for a reliable printer for home use, the HP ENVY Inspire 7255e is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- This printer is manufactured by HP, one of the most trusted printer brands in America.
- The HP ENVY Inspire 7255e is perfect for home printing, including basic color documents like recipes, forms, and travel documents.
- It comes with HP+ smart features, which allow you to upgrade to get advanced features for mobile printing, security, automatic updates, and more.
Cons
- This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry.
- After 3 months, a monthly fee applies unless cancelled, and you'll save up to 50% on ink.
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty printing tasks.
If you're looking for a printer that is easy to set up and use, the HP ENVY Inspire 7255e is a great choice. With its dual-band Wi-Fi and USB 0 port, you can easily connect it to your devices and start printing, scanning, and copying in no time.
The HP Smart App also makes it easy to set up and control your printer from your phone, and you can get advanced features with HP+ in the Smart app, including mobile fax and advanced scanning features such as multi-item recognition.
Overall, the HP ENVY Inspire 7255e is a solid choice if you need a printer for basic home use. With its reliable performance, smart features, and easy setup, it's definitely worth considering.
JOYEZA Premium Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper
If you're looking for a printable vinyl sticker paper that is both water-resistant and highly durable, then the JOYEZA Premium Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper is a great choice.
Pros
- The water-resistant feature allows you to create beautiful labels and stickers for both indoor and outdoor use.
- The thick matte printable vinyl is perfect for all your projects, including long-lasting product labels, vinyl lettering, wall quotes, photo stickers, custom decals, and file folder labels.
- The printable vinyl is super easy to use, allowing ink to dry quickly, and the backing layer makes peeling a breeze.
Cons
- The sticker has a grainy feeling when rubbed with fingers.
- The matte printed side is easily scratched.
- The sticker sheets may get jammed in the printer.
This printable vinyl sticker paper is compatible with both inkjet and laser printers and comes with a lifetime factory warranty. With 25 sheets per pack, you can create a variety of labels and stickers for your projects. Whether you're a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this printable vinyl sticker paper is a great investment.
The JOYEZA Premium Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper is perfect for creating long-lasting, color-true product labels, vinyl lettering, wall quotes, photo stickers, custom decals, and file folder labels. The water-resistant feature makes it ideal for creating labels and stickers for outdoor use, and the thick matte printable vinyl ensures that your labels and stickers are highly durable.
The printable vinyl is super easy to use, allowing ink to dry quickly, and the backing layer makes peeling a breeze. However, the sticker has a grainy feeling when rubbed with fingers, and the matte printed side is easily scratched. The sticker sheets may also get jammed in the printer, so it's important to handle them with care.
Overall, the JOYEZA Premium Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper is a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality printable vinyl sticker paper that is both water-resistant and highly durable. With the lifetime factory warranty, you can be sure that you're getting a product that is built to last.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best vinyl printer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Print Quality
One of the most important factors to consider is print quality. Look for a printer that produces high-resolution prints with vibrant colors and sharp details. Check the printer's resolution and color gamut to ensure that it meets your needs.
Size and Capacity
Consider the size and capacity of the printer. If you plan to print large designs or banners, look for a printer with a wide-format printing capability. Additionally, consider the printer's capacity for vinyl rolls to avoid frequent reloading.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Check the printer's connectivity options and compatibility with your computer or other devices. Look for a printer that offers both wired and wireless connectivity options and is compatible with your operating system.
Ease of Use
Choose a printer that is easy to operate and maintain. Look for a printer with a user-friendly interface, easy-to-replace ink cartridges, and other user-friendly features.
Cost
Finally, consider the cost of the printer and its ongoing maintenance. Look for a printer that offers a good balance between cost and features. Be sure to factor in the cost of ink cartridges and other supplies when making your decision.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best vinyl printer for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a printer when planning to print on vinyl for shirts?
When looking for a printer to print on vinyl for shirts, you should consider the following features:
- High resolution and color accuracy
- Compatibility with vinyl materials
- Ability to handle large volumes of printing
- Support for different file formats
- Ease of use and maintenance
Which printer-cutter combo is recommended for both high quality and efficiency in vinyl printing?
The Roland DG VersaStudio BN-20 is a popular choice for those looking for a printer-cutter combo that offers both high quality and efficiency in vinyl printing. It is compact, easy to use, and can handle a variety of materials.
What are the advantages of using a laser printer for vinyl sticker production?
Laser printers offer several advantages for vinyl sticker production, including:
- High resolution and sharpness
- Ability to print on a variety of materials, including vinyl
- Fast printing speeds
- Low cost per page
Can you recommend a printer that works seamlessly with Cricut for vinyl sticker creation?
The HP Envy 4520 is a printer that works seamlessly with Cricut for vinyl sticker creation. It is affordable, easy to use, and offers good quality printing.
What considerations should be taken into account when choosing a printer for vinyl sticker and cutter purposes?
When choosing a printer for vinyl sticker and cutter purposes, you should consider the following:
- Compatibility with your cutter
- Quality of printing
- Cost of consumables
- Ease of use and maintenance
Is it possible to use a standard home printer for printing on vinyl, and what are the limitations?
Yes, it is possible to use a standard home printer for printing on vinyl, but there are limitations. Most home printers are not designed to handle vinyl, so you may experience issues with ink adhesion and smudging. Additionally, the quality of the print may not be as good as with a specialized printer.
