When your business needs to print more than just standard office documents, a plotter/wide-format printer can make all the difference. Plotters are built for large-format, high-precision printing, making them a go-to choice for architects, engineers, designers, and marketing teams. But do you really need one, and if so, how do you choose the right model? Let’s break it down.
Who Needs a Plotter Printer?
Plotters aren’t for everyone. In fact, if you’re not already using one, it’s likely you don’t need to. The companies that truly rely on plotters like architects, engineers, and design firms usually know from the start that it’s an essential tool for their work. For everyone else, other printing solutions are usually a better fit.
Still curious if you need one though? Here are the most common businesses we see who use a plotter:
- Architecture & Engineering: Blueprints, schematics, site plans, and CAD designs.
- Construction & Manufacturing: 3D modeling outputs, floor layouts, and technical diagrams.
- Marketing & Print Shops: Posters, banners, trade show graphics, and bulletin boards.
- Education Prints: Schools and universities producing maps, charts, and teaching materials.
If you only need the occasional poster or banner, and wondered if getting a plotter would save you money, the answer is almost always no. But if you’re regularly producing or ordering oversized prints, owning a plotter can save time and money.
What Makes Plotters Different from Regular Printers?
Plotters aren’t just “big printers.” They stand apart in a few important ways:
- Print Size: Standard printers/copiers max out at 11”x17.” Plotters handle 24", 36", or even 44" wide rolls of paper—perfect for blueprints or posters.
- Precision: Built for technical accuracy, plotters ensure sharp lines and true-to-scale drawings.
- Color Options: Most plotters are ink-based, not toner-based. Models range from 4-color (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) setups to 5-color machines that add matte black and photo black for richer detail.
- Scanning & Copying: Many modern plotters can also scan and copy oversized documents, streamlining workflows.
Choosing the Right Plotter Printer
When it comes to choosing the right plotter, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are the key considerations we recommend to make sure you find the best fit for your business:
1. What size prints do you need?
- 24" models - These plotters are less common. Providing only 7 more inches of available space than a standard business copier, most businesses like to start at a minimum 36" model to get greater size diversity.
- 36" models - cover the needs for most architectural and engineering needs.
- 44" models - are best for marketing graphics and high-impact visuals. It gives you the range to make banners and posters to customize your fit.
2. What type of prints will you produce?
- Do you need a blueprint printer or something that can print technical drawings and schematics? You probably don't need the full range of colors including photo black. A standard cmyk device will work for you.
- Marketing graphics or photography? Go with a device that can provide matte black and photo black for deeper blacks and sharper images.
3. How many rolls of paper will you need?
- Do you frequently change paper types and sizes? If so, dual-roll options are worth it.
4. Will you need scanning or copying?
- Many businesses benefit from multi-function plotters that allow direct copying of blueprints and posters.
Cost, Maintenance & Upkeep
A plotter is an investment, so understanding long-term costs is crucial.
- Purchase vs. Lease: Most businesses either buy outright or lease, depending on budget flexibility.
- Warranty & Service Plans: Extended warranties (2, 3, or 5 years) often include labor, parts, and service.
- Consumables: Since plotters are ink-based, you’ll want to plan for ongoing ink and paper costs. Often, if you order a plotter through a copier company, they can provide competitive rates on ink and even estimate your average monthly spend. Be sure to ask for their projections so you know what to expect.
- Installation & Support: Plotters are massive devices and may even need special wires, or connections to setup. We highly recommend working alongside a designated copier company to help with the installation process. They will have the tools, resources and training needed to put get the plotter setup properly.
For businesses that print regularly, the ROI often comes from reduced outsourcing costs and faster turnaround on projects.
Final Thoughts
Having trouble sorting through all the options? We’ve got you covered. At American Office Solutions, we see ourselves as print consultants—not salespeople. Our goal isn’t to upsell you on devices or features you don’t need, but to guide you toward the solution that truly fits your business.
Fill out the contact form below and our team will ask the right questions to understand your needs and recommend the plotter that makes the most sense for you.
