Best Printer for Hydrographic Film: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2022

by Mia M.

Hydrographic printing, also known as water transfer printing, is a process that uses specialized inks and coatings to apply designs to various substrates. The most common applications for this printing technique are automotive parts and firearms, but it can be used on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

The best printers for hydrographic film are those that can produce high-quality prints with a wide range of colors. In addition, the printer should be able to handle large prints without any noticeable distortions or warping.

Many of today's printing technologies are not well-suited for use with hydrographic film. Inkjet printers, for example, typically produce prints with a high degree of image clarity and sharpness, but they often fail to produce the level of detail and color saturation needed for successful hydro printing. Laser printers are also unsuitable for use with hydrographic film, as they typically produce prints with a high degree of contrast that can cause problems when used with water-based inks.

Looking for the best printer for hydrographic film? You've come to the right place! In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the best printers on the market and help you decide which one is right for you. So whether you're a beginner or a pro, read on to find out more!

Top 5 Best Printer for Hydrographic Film Reviews in 2022

Top 5 Best printer for hydrographic film
Top 5 Best printer for hydrographic film

1. HP DesignJet Z9+ Large Format Proscript Photo Printer - Link

HP DesignJet Z9+ Large Format Postscript Photo Printer - 24
HP DesignJet Z9+ Large Format Postscript Photo Printer - 24

Using thermal technology for printing, the HP DesignJet Z9+ is ideal for professional architects, designers, and service providers that does printing work. It is capable of printing on long media and comes with an adaptable roll feed tray.

The printer also comes with a standard top sheet feed tray and a rear sheet feed for accessing rigid media. The media output bin also comes with an automatic horizontal cutter.

One of the features we love about the HP DesignJet 29+ is its security features. This is in line with many of HP's strict security features that make the brand so reliable. It comes with HP Secure Boot so you can start the printer even when it is connected to an unknown ethernet network. It comes with a whitelisting option for protecting your documents while sending, features role-based access control for better teamwork it also comes with some firewall and IP security to protect your printer.

The printer comes with Ethernet connectivity and Wi-Fi Support. It also supports a Type-A Host port so you can print directly from your smartphone using the iOS or Android app.

Another feature you will love is the email printing option on the printer thanks to its HP ePrint capability.

The printer also has decent print speed. Out of the box, the printer has pre-installed printer drivers, HP web Jetadmin and HP DesignJet Utility for other functionality.

Best Features

  • Supports printing on a wide range of media including hydrographic film.
  • Comes with Ethernet and Wifi connectivity
  • Supports mobile printing from smartphones and tablets
  • Supports email printing via HP ePrint. The HP Smart App for smartphones also allows email printing
  • Ideal printer for professional photographers, service providers as well as graphic designers.
  • Comes with an adaptable roll feed tray so you can print on wide sheets
  • Comes with a ton of highly effective security features including secure file erase and PIN Printing so only you can access and use the printer.
  • Decent printing speed
  • Customer support available in case of malfunctions

Cons

  • The printing speed can be better
  • Booting time is long due to the number of programs the printer runs to protect as mandatory security checks.

2. Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless Wide Format color All-in-One Supertank Printer - Link

Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless Wide-Format Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax and Ethernet
Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless Wide-Format Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax and Ethernet

Many would argue this claims a spot as one of the best hydrographic printers one can get and rightly so.

There is no denying the clear quality of Epson Printers. The brand has grown in terms of popularity due to the high performance and reliability their printers bring to the table. Added to the fact that they are also cost-efficient, it is safe to say you can't go wrong with an Epson Printer.

The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 features higher technology that makes it extremely productive. This is because you can use it to print, copy, scan, and even fax important documents to any connected computer. In other words, with one printer, you can get most of your office work done!

Another amazing feature we love about the EcoTank Pro ET-16650 is its super-efficient ink management. The tank can last at least two years before you need to get a refill.

The only drawback you get with this printer is its price. However, considering all the features you get from the printer, it is safe to say you are getting your money's worth.

Best Features

  • All in one printer for all your office printing, scanning, faxing, and copying work
  • Comes with enough ink to last two years
  • Low maintenance cost since the ink refills costs about 80% less than other printers.
  • Can print colored and monochrome documents at the same time
  • The printer uses PrecisionCore Heat Free Technology which ensures high-quality printing output
  • Can print wide-format documents (as large as 13 inches)
  • It comes with a 500 Paper capacity tray
  • Comes with a rear feed tray that you can use if you need to print on special paper.
  • Uses DuraBrite ET Ink for vibrant and crisp white and black printing
  • Comes with Ethernet support for connectivity
  • Can do botherless printing
  • Two years limited warranty
  • Suitable for printing on plain paper, cardstock, glossy photo paper, matte paper, envelopes, etc.
  • Supports two-sided duplex printing

Cons

  • It cost a lot of money compared to other hydro dip printers
  • The color printing can be a little better

3. Canon ImagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Color Wide Format Printer - Link

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Prints up to 13
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Prints up to 13

Another printer you can't go wrong with is the Canon ImagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Printer. Canon is a brand that needs no introduction in matters that involves manufacturing high-quality printers for office use. The brand even claims to offer state-of-the-art printing services to its customers. That of course is subject to personal preference.

In terms of speed, quality, functionality, and flexibility, this cannon printer is impressive. It is capable of printing on hydrographic film among other mediums. The images and printing output produced on the Canon ImagePROGRAF is top class. The printer effortlessly renders crisp color for quality output.

It uses LUCIA PRO ink to print your documents. The advantage of this is that the ink does not leave any byproducts and is also very easy to refill. The printer also uses a Nozzle recovery System coupled with a Skew correction to improve the quality of your printing output.

Best Features

  • Uses a LUCIA PRO pigment system that comprises 9 colors. This ensures you get excellent picture resolution when printing on your film.
  • The printer uses chroma optimizing coating and sealing for enhanced durability and improved output quality.
  • Features a Nozzle Recovery System that makes the printer intuitive and easier to operate.
  • Best for printing professional photos and fine artwork.
  • The printer is capable of printing banners up to 39 inches long
  • Compact and lightweight as it only weighs 31.6 pounds.
  • Built-in paper roll adapter so you can load papers that are long in a cylindrical manner.
  • LCD Screen selecting printing layout from its built-in software
  • Supports mobile device printing
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity

Cons

  • Pricier compared to other products in the same category
  • Printing Speed is considerably slow but the printing quality cannot be denied
  • Only comes with printing functionality; does not support faxing, copying, or scanning

4. Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide Format Printer - Link

Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer with Copy, Scan, Fax, Wi-Fi Direct and Ethernet, Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready
Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer with Copy, Scan, Fax, Wi-Fi Direct and Ethernet, Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready

The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide Format Printer is another printer you can use to get all your printing work on the hydrographic film done without issues. This is no surprise considering how highly users rank Epson for making quality printers.

The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is not only capable of printing. It can also scan and fax media excellently well. The best way to describe how impressive the printing quality of this printer is is to compare it to that of a laser printer. The WF-7720 uses PrecisionCore Technology to ensure the produced work depicts the colors and details as crisp as possible.

Another impressive factor we love about this printer is that it is easy to maintain. The printer does not consume much power. The printer has a 500 sheet paper capacity and supports printing from your smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi connectivity.

In addition, if you have access to Alexa, the printer supports voice-activated printing so you can enjoy a hands-free experience while still getting your work printed.

One drawback worth nothing about this printer is how expensive its printing ink costs.

Best Features

  • Comes with PrecisionCore Technology for high performance
  • Supports borderless printing and is capable of printing on media up to 13 inches long.
  • Uses considerably less power; almost 80% less compared to other printers.
  • The printer is capable of printing a high volume of work at once
  • Comes with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation and control
  • Supports duplex printing - automatically prints on both sides of the page if the option is enabled.
  • Holds up to 500 pieces of paper in its dual sheet tray
  • Supports Alexa

Cons

  • Costly ink significantly increases the cost per page of this printer.
  • Making high graphical prints with the WF-7720 is quite difficult

5. HP DesignJet T210 Large Format Compact Wireless Plotter Printer - Link

HP DesignJet T210 Large Format Compact Wireless Plotter Printer - 24
HP DesignJet T210 Large Format Compact Wireless Plotter Printer - 24

The HP DesignJet T210 is one of the best plotter printers for technical line drawing, precision, and accurate rendering work, crisp poster, map printer, etc. Hence, why it is very popular among engineers, architects, and construction professionals.

Compact and designed for modern use, there is pretty much nothing you can't use this printer for. It comes with Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless and remote printing. The Printer is capable of printing at 45 secs per page (A1 paper). This speed is even faster when printing on smaller paper. It handles printing on hydrographic film efficiently and supports one-click printing.

Best Features

  • Comes with 500 MB of built-in memory
  • Comes with Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
  • Amazing printing speed. Can print up to 59 pages in an hour.
  • The printer is made from 30% recycled plastic which makes it eco-friendly
  • The printer is lightweight and compact.
  • Comes with a color touchscreen for easy control
  • Ideal printer for professional architects, construction experts, engineers, etc.
  • Efficient ink usage for low-cost maintenance

Cons

  • The printer does have certain color issues while printing maps.

What Is Hydrographic Film and What Are Its Uses

Hydrographic film, also known as water transfer printing or hydro dipping, is a process that uses a special film to apply printed designs to three-dimensional objects. The film is submerged in a water tank, and the object is then lowered into the water. The design on the film is then transferred to the object.

To Add Designs to Vehicles

Hydrographic film is often used to add designs to vehicles, such as cars and motorcycles. It can also be used to add designs to various types of furniture, such as coffee tables and chairs. In addition, hydrographic film can be used to create custom phone cases, laptop decals, and other types of personalized decorations.

The process of hydrographic film can be used to add a wide variety of designs to objects. Some of the most common designs include camouflage patterns, abstract designs, and geometric shapes. However, it is also possible to create custom designs that are specific to the object that is being decorated.

To Add a Wide Variety of Designs to Objects.

The quality of the finished product depends on the quality of the film and the skill of the person performing the decoration. In general, hydrographic film produces high-quality results that are difficult to distinguish from traditional methods of painting or airbrushing.

The cost of using hydrographic film varies depending on the size and complexity of the design. However, in most cases it is significantly less expensive than traditional methods of decoration.

Hydrographic film is a relatively new technology, and its uses are still being explored. However, it is quickly becoming popular due to the high quality of the finished product and the low cost of the process. In addition, hydrographic film can be used to create customized designs that are not

Buying Guide for the Best Printer for Hydrographic Film

When looking for a printer to use with hydrographic film, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The first is the type of printer. There are three types of printers that can be used for this purpose: inkjet, thermal transfer, and dye sublimation.

Inkjet printers

Inkjet printers are the most common type of printer and are generally the most affordable. However, they can be more difficult to use with hydrographic film as they can be prone to clogging. Thermal transfer printers are less common but tend to be more reliable when used with hydrographic film. They are also more expensive than inkjet printers. Dye sublimation printers are the most expensive type of printer but also the most reliable.

The Printer's Printing Area

The other important factor to consider when choosing a printer for hydrographic film is the size of the printer's printing area. The printing area is the size of the print that the printer can produce. Some printers have a small printing area while others have a large one. It is important to choose a printer with a printing area that is large enough to suit your needs.

With these things in mind, you are ready to start shopping for a printer to use with hydrographic film. Keep these factors in mind and you are sure to find the perfect printer for your needs.

Types of Printers That Can Be Used for Hydrographic Printing

There are four types of printers that can be used for hydrographic printing: Solvent Printers, UV Curable Printers, Latex Printers and Dye-Sublimation Printers.

Solvent printers use a solvent to dissolve the image from the printing plate and deposit it on the substrate. The most common solvents are petroleum distillates, which are flammable and toxic. UV curable printers use ultraviolet light to cure the ink, which makes them safer than solvent printers. However, they still produce ozone, which can be harmful to breathe. Latex printers use water-based inks that are latex-based. They are the safest type of printer to use, but they also have the lowest print quality. Dye-sublimation printers use a dye that is heated until it sublimates, or turns into a gas. This gas then deposits on the substrate, forming the image. Dye-sublimation printers produce the best quality prints, but they are also the most expensive.

Which type of printer you choose will depend on your needs and budget. If you need a high-quality print and are willing to pay for it, then a dye-sublimation printer is the best option. If you are looking for a safe printer that doesn't produce ozone, then a UV curable printer is the best choice. If you are on a tight budget, then a latex printer is your best option. And if you need a printer that can use both solvent and water-based inks, then a Solvent printer is the best option.

The Benefits of Using a Hydrographic Printer

There are a number of benefits to using a hydrographic printer, which is why they have become so popular in recent years. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Increased Efficiency

With a hydrographic printer, you can quickly and easily produce high-quality prints, which can help improve your overall efficiency.

2. Reduced Costs

Hydrographic printers use water-based inks, which means that you can save money on both ink and paper costs.

3. Increased Versatility

Hydrographic printers are extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, including printing logos, graphics, and text onto various surfaces.

4. Improved Quality

With a hydrographic printer, you can produce high-quality prints that are sure to impress.

5. Increased Speed

Hydrographic printers can print at speeds of up to 150 feet per minute, which means that you can get your prints done quickly and easily.

6. Increased Output

Hydrographic printers can produce large quantities of prints in a short period of time, which is ideal for businesses or organizations that need to produce large quantities of prints quickly.

As you can see, there are a number of benefits to using a hydrographic printer. If you are looking for a high-quality, versatile printer that can help improve your efficiency and output, then a hydrographic printer is the perfect solution for you.

Buy on Etsy, Walmart, eBay (quality guaranteed)

Epson EcoTank Pro ET-16650 Wireless Wide-Format Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Prints up to 13"X 19", - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer with Copy, Scan, Fax, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Amazon Dash - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

HP DesignJet T210 Large Format Compact Wireless Plotter Printer - 24", with Modern Office - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Conclusion for Hydrographic Printer Buyers

A hydrographic printer is a computer printer that prints on water-repellent or waterproof paper using special inks. The hydrographic printing process involves the use of a large format inkjet printer to produce a print that is then dipped into a water bath. The image is transferred to the water and then to the object being printed. Hydrographic printing has been used for a wide variety of applications, including printing T-shirts, printing car parts, and printing phone cases.

So, what is the best printer for hydrographic film? The answer to that question depends on your specific needs and budget. But, we hope this article has helped you better understand the different types of printers available and given you a few ideas as to which might be the best fit for you. Thanks for reading!

About Mia M.

I'm going through a bit of an existential crisis right now, I'll tell you about myself when I figure out if I'm real or not.

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hey, i’m mia

tattoo lover, plant hoarder, DIY addict and overall stoner grandma

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