Finding the right wide format printer for legal exhibits and timelines involves balancing print quality, size, speed, and cost. The Epson EcoTank ET-16650 stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its combination of affordability and reliable performance. For those prioritizing speed and large-volume printing, the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 offers impressive accuracy and size. Meanwhile, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 provides a more budget-friendly option suited for smaller or less frequent jobs. Each option presents tradeoffs among initial cost, ongoing maintenance, and print quality. Continue reading for the full breakdown to find your ideal match.
Key Takeaways
- Large-format printing capabilities are essential for legal exhibits, but size alone isn’t enough—consider integration and ease of use.
- The top picks balance print quality, speed, and cost, with the best overall offering a strong mix of features and value.
- Premium models tend to offer better durability and color accuracy at a higher initial investment, suited for high-volume or critical printing.
- Budget options are available for smaller practices or infrequent use, but may sacrifice speed or print longevity.
- Maintenance and ink efficiency significantly impact ongoing costs, making these factors critical in the decision.
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Inkjet Printer | ![]() | Best Overall for Versatile Wide-Format Printing | Print Technology: Inkjet | Maximum Print Size: 13 x 19 inches | Print Speed: 25 ppm black, 12 ppm color | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 Wireless All-in-One Wide-format Printer (Renewed) | ![]() | Best for Heavy Office Use and Professional Quality | Maximum Print Size: 13 x 19 inches | Print Speed: 25 black/12 color ppm | Paper Capacity: 500 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Tank Printer | ![]() | Best for High-Volume, Cost-Effective Printing | Print Speed: Up to 25 ppm | Maximum Print Size: 13 x 19 inches | Scan Size: Up to 11 x 17 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer | ![]() | Best for Versatile Office Use with High-Resolution Output | Print Resolution: 4800 x 2400 dpi | Black/White Speed: 17 ppm | Color Speed: 9 ppm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Tank Printer | ![]() | Best for High-Quality Photo and Creative Output | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-Inch Large Format Printer | ![]() | Best for High-Resolution Outdoor Exhibits | Printer Type: Large Format Printer | Maximum Resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi | Print Speed: up to 3.2 ppm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | ![]() | Best for Versatile Office Use with Wide-Format Capability | Print Speed (Black): 22 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 18 ppm | Maximum Print Size: 11×17 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | ![]() | Best for Heavy-Duty Professional Printing with Security | Print Speed (Black): up to 22 ppm | Print Speed (Color): up to 18 ppm | Maximum Print Size: 11×17 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wide format printer for legal exhibits and timeline | Maximum Print Size | Print Speed | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 Wi | 13 x 19 inches | 25 ppm black, 12 ppm color | Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 Wi | 13 x 19 inches | 25 black/12 color ppm | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth |
| Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wir | 13 x 19 inches | Up to 25 ppm | Wireless |
| Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireles | 13 x 19 inches | — | USB 2.0, LAN, Wi-Fi |
| Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wi | — | — | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-I | — | up to 3.2 ppm | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 Wide-For | 11×17 inches | — | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide-For | 11×17 inches | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Inkjet Printer
This model stands out for its ability to produce vibrant, borderless prints up to 13 x 19 inches at a rapid 25 ppm, making it ideal for legal exhibits that require detailed, high-quality visuals. Compared with the EcoTank ET-16650, the WF-7310 offers faster prints and larger paper trays, but it relies on genuine Epson cartridges, which can drive up ongoing costs. Its wireless connectivity and large 500-sheet capacity make it well-suited for busy offices, though the initial setup can be complex, and the higher purchase price reflects its premium features. The tradeoff here is between top-tier performance and a higher upfront investment, but for those needing reliable, high-speed wide-format printing, this model delivers.
Pros:- High-speed printing up to 25 ppm for efficiency
- Wide-format capability up to 13 x 19 inches for detailed exhibits
- Large 500-sheet paper capacity supports heavy workloads
- Wireless connectivity enables flexible device management
Cons:- Requires genuine Epson cartridges, increasing ongoing costs
- Setup process can be complicated for first-time users
- Higher initial cost compared to standard printers
Best for: Legal professionals and office managers who need fast, high-quality wide-format prints with high-volume capacity.
Not ideal for: Small offices or home users with limited space or budget constraints, as its size and cost may be prohibitive.
- Print Technology:Inkjet
- Maximum Print Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Speed:25 ppm black, 12 ppm color
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi Direct
- Display:2.4-inch color display
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for busy legal offices needing fast, high-quality wide-format prints with substantial volume capacity.”
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 Wireless All-in-One Wide-format Printer (Renewed)
Compared with the WF-7310, the WF-7840 offers an even larger feature set with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, automatic duplexing, and multiple trays, making it better suited for high-volume, professional environments. It provides similar print speeds of 25 ppm for black and 12 ppm for color, but its larger footprint and complex setup may be a challenge for smaller spaces or less tech-savvy users. While it excels in handling demanding workloads with multiple paper trays and security features, the fact that it is a renewed unit introduces some variability in condition. This pick makes the most sense for offices that prioritize speed, security, and versatility over compact size or initial cost.
Pros:- High-speed, professional-quality wide-format printing
- Multiple paper trays and automatic duplexing for efficiency
- Large 4.3-inch touchscreen simplifies operation
- Supports wireless, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:- Relatively large footprint may not fit in small offices
- Refurbished condition might vary in reliability
- Setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Large offices requiring reliable, high-volume, professional-quality wide-format printing with advanced features.
Not ideal for: Home offices or small teams with limited space or budget constraints, due to its size and the potential variability of renewed units.
- Maximum Print Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Speed:25 black/12 color ppm
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Display:4.3-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for busy, security-conscious offices seeking high-volume, versatile wide-format printing with advanced features.”
Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Tank Printer
The ET-16650 distinguishes itself from inkjet competitors like the WF-7310 with its cartridge-free ink tanks, offering significant savings on ongoing ink costs while maintaining impressive speeds of up to 25 ppm. Its large 500-sheet capacity and borderless printing up to 13 x 19 inches make it suitable for small businesses needing reliable, high-volume output. However, its initial setup can be complex, and using third-party inks risks damaging the printer, so genuine Epson ink bottles are a must. Compared with traditional cartridge models, this EcoTank excels in reducing waste and cost over time, though the upfront investment and setup complexity might be barriers for some users. Still, this model is a strong choice for those prioritizing long-term savings and high-volume production.
Pros:- Cartridge-free ink tanks reduce waste and ongoing costs
- Fast print speeds up to 25 ppm for large jobs
- Vibrant, borderless prints up to 13 x 19 inches
- Large 500-sheet paper capacity supports heavy workloads
Cons:- Requires genuine Epson ink bottles to prevent damage
- Initial setup can be complicated for some users
- Limited to specific refill bottles, reducing flexibility
Best for: Small businesses and offices focused on high-volume, cost-efficient wide-format printing without sacrificing quality.
Not ideal for: Occasional users or those with limited technical skills, due to setup complexity and ink management requirements.
- Print Speed:Up to 25 ppm
- Maximum Print Size:13 x 19 inches
- Scan Size:Up to 11 x 17 inches
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Ink Type:DURABrite pigment-based
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for budget-conscious small offices needing high-volume, economical wide-format printing over the long term.”
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
Compared to the smaller ET-16650, the ET-15000 offers a broader feature set with a focus on all-in-one versatility, including scanning, copying, and faxing, along with high resolution up to 4800 x 2400 dpi. It is slower in color printing (9 ppm) but excels in producing sharp images and detailed documents, making it suitable for offices that handle both legal exhibits and detailed reports. Its larger size and slower color speeds may be disadvantages for high-volume, fast-paced environments, but the high-quality output and multifunctionality make it a solid choice for versatile office needs. The tradeoff here is between print quality and speed versus multifunctionality and resolution.
Pros:- High-resolution printing up to 4800 x 2400 dpi
- Wireless connectivity for flexible setup
- All-in-one functionality with fax, scan, and copy
- Large duty cycle supports frequent use
Cons:- Slower color print speeds at 9 ppm
- Bulky design may not suit small spaces
- Higher ongoing costs for ink refills
Best for: Legal offices and creative teams needing high-resolution, multifunctional printing with reliable color quality.
Not ideal for: Fast-paced environments prioritizing high-volume color printing or limited space due to its size and slower speeds.
- Print Resolution:4800 x 2400 dpi
- Black/White Speed:17 ppm
- Color Speed:9 ppm
- Monthly Duty Cycle:33,000 pages
- Connectivity:USB 2.0, LAN, Wi-Fi
- Maximum Print Size:13 x 19 inches
Our verdict“This model suits offices demanding detailed, high-resolution prints and versatile multifunction features over rapid high-volume output.”
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Tank Printer
Compared with the multifunctional ET-15000, the ET-8550 emphasizes photo quality with a 6-color ink system and a maximum print size of 13 x 19 inches, making it perfect for creative professionals and home studios. Its long-lasting ink bottles can produce up to 6,200 color pages, offering excellent value for high-quality image reproduction. However, initial setup may be complex, and its higher cost might deter budget-conscious buyers. While it isn’t designed for rapid high-volume printing, its vibrant color output makes it the best choice for those prioritizing image quality over speed. Its eco-friendly, cartridge-free design aligns with sustainable practices while delivering superior visual results.
Pros:- Vibrant, high-quality 6-color photo printing
- Long-lasting ink supply up to 6,200 pages
- Cartridge-free ink bottles reduce waste
- Supports borderless printing up to 13 x 19 inches
Cons:- Complex initial setup process
- Higher upfront cost compared to standard models
- Slower print speeds at 16 ppm
Best for: Photographers, artists, and creative professionals seeking high-quality, long-lasting wide-format prints.
Not ideal for: Offices that need fast turnaround for large legal exhibits or documents, due to slower speeds and higher upfront costs.
Our verdict“This printer is best for creative setups prioritizing stunning image quality and long-term ink savings over rapid printing needs.”
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-Inch Large Format Printer
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 stands out for its ability to produce sharp, high-resolution prints up to 2400 x 1200 dpi, making it ideal for detailed exhibits and timelines where clarity matters. Compared with the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730, which offers greater versatility for office tasks, the Canon prioritizes print quality and outdoor durability, though at a higher ongoing cost of ink and maintenance. Its 5-color water-resistant ink set ensures that legal exhibits and timelines remain legible outdoors or under challenging conditions, but this focus means it’s less suited for casual or occasional use. The automatic media calibration guarantees consistent color quality, a key advantage for professional display work. The main tradeoff is that this printer is primarily intended for professional or commercial environments, making it less practical for small offices or infrequent users. Best for legal professionals or display specialists needing durable, high-detail prints.
Pros:- High-resolution print quality up to 2400 x 1200 dpi
- Fast printing speeds for large-format outputs
- Water and UV resistant ink suitable for outdoor exhibits
- Automatic media calibration for consistent color
Cons:- Designed mainly for professional or commercial use, not casual users
- Potentially high costs for ink and maintenance
Best for: Legal professionals, exhibit designers, or agencies requiring durable, high-resolution outdoor signage
Not ideal for: Small law firms or individuals with infrequent printing needs due to high ongoing costs and professional focus
- Printer Type:Large Format Printer
- Maximum Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed:up to 3.2 ppm
- Media Size:24 inches
- Ink Colors:5-color ink set
- Water Resistance:Yes
Our verdict“This printer suits professionals who need durable, detailed outdoor exhibits, accepting higher operational costs for superior quality.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 offers a flexible solution for offices needing up to 11×17 inch printing alongside scanning, copying, and faxing. Compared with the Canon TM-240, it excels in multifunctionality and ease of use, especially with its large 2.7-inch color touchscreen and wireless connectivity. While it’s capable of printing legal exhibits, its maximum media size is 11×17 inches, which may limit larger exhibit formats, making it less ideal for those requiring full 24-inch wide prints. Its quick color printing and security features suit busy offices handling sensitive documents. However, the ongoing subscription for Instant Ink after a trial period can be a drawback for cost-conscious users, and its size may be cumbersome for compact spaces. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for legal teams and offices that need reliable, versatile printing within a smaller footprint. Best for small-to-medium offices needing versatile, high-quality wide-format prints.
Pros:- Wide-format printing up to 11×17 inches
- Reliable wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi
- Large 2.7-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation
- Secure printing with HP Wolf Pro Security
Cons:- Limited to 11×17 inch maximum media size, not full 24-inch width
- Subscription required for Instant Ink after initial trial
Best for: Law offices, legal teams, or small agencies needing multifunctional wide-format printing with easy connectivity
Not ideal for: Large firms or those requiring frequent, high-volume printing beyond 11×17 inches, due to size and media limitations
- Print Speed (Black):22 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):18 ppm
- Maximum Print Size:11×17 inches
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Security:HP Wolf Pro Security
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for offices needing versatile, reliable printing for legal exhibits up to 11×17 inches, with some size limitations.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 pushes further into high-volume, professional environments with its ability to print, scan, copy, and fax up to 11×17 inches, along with automatic duplexing and a large 4.3-inch touchscreen. Compared to the HP OfficeJet Pro 9720, it offers a higher input capacity of 500 sheets and features automatic duplex scanning, making it better suited for demanding workflows. While it supports professional-quality wide-format printing, it still does not reach the 24-inch width of the Canon TM-240, making it less suitable for large-scale exhibits that require full 24-inch wide prints. Its advanced security features and larger capacity make it a strong choice for busy law firms handling sensitive, high-volume printing. The larger footprint and higher cost may be drawbacks for smaller or budget-sensitive offices. This model best fits professional environments that demand speed, security, and volume. Best for high-volume, security-conscious offices needing reliable wide-format printing.
Pros:- High-quality wide-format printing up to 11×17 inches
- Automatic duplexing for increased productivity
- Large 4.3-inch touchscreen for easy operation
- Enhanced security features for sensitive documents
Cons:- Does not support full 24-inch wide printing
- Relatively large and expensive upfront
Best for: Large law firms or professional offices demanding high-volume, secure, and fast legal exhibits and timelines
Not ideal for: Small or casual users who do not need high capacity or automatic duplexing, due to size and cost
- Print Speed (Black):up to 22 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):up to 18 ppm
- Maximum Print Size:11×17 inches
- Automatic Duplexing:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:Yes, single-pass 2-sided
- Input Capacity:500 sheets
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for high-volume, secure legal printing in a professional office setting, accepting its size and cost tradeoffs.”

How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their ability to produce clear, accurate legal exhibits and timelines in wide formats. Key criteria included print resolution, size capacity, operational speed, ease of setup and use, and ongoing costs such as ink or toner. Durability and reliability were also critical, as legal workflows demand consistent performance. The ranking reflects a balance of performance, value, and suitability for legal environments, prioritizing models that excel in producing detailed, large-format prints with manageable maintenance and cost over time.| wide format printer for legal exhibits and timeline | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7310 Wi | Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-7840 Wi | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth |
| Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wir | Wireless |
| Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireles | USB 2.0, LAN, Wi-Fi |
| Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wi | — |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 24-I | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9720 Wide-For | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide-For | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wide Format Printer For Legal Exhibits And Timelines
Choosing the right wide format printer for legal exhibits involves understanding several key factors. Beyond just size, consider how the printer handles color accuracy, print speed, and ongoing costs. The best device should integrate seamlessly into your workflow without becoming a maintenance burden. Carefully balancing initial investment with long-term operational expenses will prevent surprises and ensure dependable performance for legal timelines and displays.Print Quality and Resolution
Legal exhibits and timelines require high detail and clarity. Look for printers offering at least 1200 dpi resolution for crisp lines and text. Higher resolutions are especially valuable if color-coding or detailed graphics are involved. A printer with consistent color accuracy and sharpness will make your exhibits more professional and easier to read in court.
Size and Media Handling
Ensure the printer supports the paper sizes you need, typically 24 to 36 inches wide for legal exhibits. Check media handling features such as adjustable guides, multiple tray options, and the ability to handle thick or specialty papers. Larger media capacity reduces the need for frequent reloading, speeding up your workflow during busy periods.
Speed and Workflow Efficiency
Speed impacts how quickly you can produce multiple exhibits, especially under tight deadlines. Look for models with fast print times per page and high duty cycles to handle large jobs without wear. Consider features like automatic double-sided printing or job queuing to streamline your workflow and reduce manual intervention.
Cost of Operation
Ongoing costs such as ink or toner and maintenance can quickly add up. Tank-based ink systems, like those on Epson EcoTank models, often offer lower per-page costs, making them more economical for regular large-format printing. Conversely, traditional cartridges may be cheaper upfront but cost more over time, especially with high-volume use.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
A user-friendly interface, easy paper loading, and straightforward maintenance routines reduce downtime and frustration. Look for models with clear status indicators and accessible parts for refilling. Regular maintenance is essential to keep print quality high and avoid costly repairs, so consider the long-term service needs of each model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between inkjet and laser wide format printers for legal exhibits?
Inkjet printers, like many Epson and Canon models, excel in producing high-resolution, color-rich prints essential for detailed exhibits. They tend to be more affordable upfront and handle a variety of media types well. Laser printers, while less common in wide formats, offer faster printing speeds and lower per-page costs for large volumes, but may have limitations in color accuracy and media handling. For legal exhibits requiring high detail and color, inkjet often stands out, but consider volume and speed needs when choosing between the two.
Are wide format printers suitable for small law firms or solo practitioners?
Yes, but with some caveats. Smaller firms with occasional large-format needs might prefer more compact models that balance size and cost, like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730. These printers typically have lower upfront costs and manageable maintenance. However, if frequent, high-volume printing is expected, investing in a more robust model like the Epson EcoTank ET-16650 could reduce ongoing expenses and improve efficiency. Assess your typical workload carefully before choosing.
What maintenance routines are necessary to keep a wide format printer in good condition?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning print heads, checking ink or toner levels, and ensuring paper paths are free of dust or debris. Following the manufacturer’s recommended routines, such as running cleaning cycles and updating firmware, preserves print quality and prevents costly breakdowns. Maintaining a clean, well-organized workspace will also extend the printer’s lifespan and ensure consistent results, especially critical for legal exhibits where clarity matters.
How important is print speed for legal timelines and exhibit production?
Print speed is a significant factor if deadlines are tight or if large batches of exhibits are needed quickly. Faster printers reduce wait times and improve overall productivity, especially during trial preparations or urgent filings. However, speed should not come at the expense of quality; seek a model that balances rapid output with precision, particularly for detailed legal graphics and text.
Can I upgrade or expand a wide format printer for future needs?
Many wide format printers offer optional accessories, additional media rolls, or upgraded ink systems that can extend their usefulness. However, upgrades are often limited by the original design, so choosing a model with flexible media handling and high durability from the start is advisable. Planning for future needs by selecting a slightly more capable model can save money and hassle later, especially if your practice expands or your printing demands increase.
Conclusion
For general use in a busy law office, the Epson EcoTank ET-16650 provides a reliable, cost-effective option that balances quality and ongoing expenses, making it ideal for most practices. If your priority is high-volume, detail-oriented printing, the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 is worth the investment. Budget-conscious users or smaller firms should consider the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730, which offers decent performance at a lower price point. Beginners or those with occasional needs might find the compact and easy-to-use models more suitable, while large firms or courts requiring premium quality should opt for premium models with advanced features. Ultimately, your choice depends on your volume, quality expectations, and budget constraints.







