What Are Large Format Printers – And Who Needs Them?

At its simplest, a large format printer is exactly what it sounds like: a printer designed to handle bigger print jobs than a standard office printer. But there’s more to it than just size. Large format printers bring professional quality, vibrant color, and the ability to print on a wide range of materials, making them an essential tool in many industries.
Whether you’re a business owner, designer, or creative professional, here’s what you need to know about large format printers — and why they might be exactly what your work needs.
What makes a printer “large format”?
While a normal printer handles sizes like A4 or A3, large format printers can print on much bigger media — from A2, A1, A0, and often several meters wide.
They can also print on many types of materials beyond paper, such as:
Vinyl
Canvas
Fabric and textiles
PVC boards
Backlit film
Posters and banners
This flexibility allows businesses and creatives to produce stunning, high-resolution graphics that are impossible to create with standard printers.
Who uses large format printers?
Large format printers are everywhere — even if you don’t notice them directly. They’re used by:
Print shops and sign makers – producing banners, shop signage, window decals, vehicle wraps, and more.
Advertising agencies and marketing teams – for striking retail displays, billboards, trade show graphics, and promotional posters.
Architects and engineers – to print technical drawings, plans, and blueprints at scale.
Event planners and decorators – for large backdrops, step-and-repeat walls, and creative decor pieces.
Photographers and artists – to produce high-quality art prints, photo enlargements, and canvas pieces.
If your business wants to create professional graphics in-house, a large format printer can help you save outsourcing costs and respond faster to client needs.
Why large format printing matters
Large format printing isn’t just about size; it’s about:
Professional presentation – stand out with crisp, detailed prints.
Versatility – print on many materials for different uses.
Cost savings – handle projects in-house instead of paying external print shops.
Speed – produce what you need when you need it.
Ready to explore large format printing?
From shop signs to exhibition backdrops, large format printers make it possible to turn big ideas into reality.
If you’re looking to add professional printing to your business or creative work, investing in a large format printer can open up new markets, new products, and new opportunities.
Want help choosing the right machine?
📞 Contact us today to learn more about the best large format printers for your needs.