Wide Format Comparison Chart | Authorized Wide Format Dealership

In the space of wide format printing, KIP stands out as a pivotal player, consistently delivering robust and innovative solutions tailored to the demands of diverse industries. Known for their precision, reliability, and efficiency, KIP wide format printers and plotters serve a broad spectrum of professional needs, from architectural designs to large-scale commercial advertisements.

This blog explores the different models within the KIP lineup, their specifications, applications across various industries, the history of the KIP line, and the intrinsic value of KIP managed print services.

KIP’s Legacy in Wide Format Printing

KIP Wide Format Printers & Plotters: Models, Specs, and How They Compare

By Wendy Campbell, Director of Marketing  |  ABT  |  Updated 2026  |  7-minute read

If your organization produces architectural drawings, engineering plans, construction documents, or large-format graphics, you’re probably evaluating wide format printers and plotters — and KIP is likely on your shortlist. This guide covers KIP’s current model lineup and specifications, how KIP compares to Canon, HP, Epson, Xerox, and Ricoh, which industries rely on wide format printing most, and what to look for when deciding which platform fits your workflow. ABT is an authorized wide format dealer serving the full Colorado Front Range from three locations.

What Is KIP and Why Does It Matter?

KIP was founded in the early 1980s with a focus on blueprint machines for the architecture and engineering sectors. The company transitioned from analog to digital printing as those technologies matured, becoming one of the dominant players in toner-based wide format printing. That transition is significant — toner-based wide format is faster and more cost-effective per page for high-volume technical document environments than inkjet, which is why KIP remains the preferred platform for firms that print a lot of CAD drawings and construction documents.

Today KIP’s lineup spans compact workgroup devices to high-volume production systems, and their managed print services model adds proactive maintenance and monitoring to the hardware investment.

KIP Current Models & Specifications

 

Model	Best For	Key Specs	Standout Feature
KIP 660	Workgroups needing color and mono output with cloud connectivity	Color & monochrome; built-in touchscreen; cloud print and scan support	Ease of use for mixed-output environments where time and quality are the priority
KIP 860	High-demand production environments with large-scale project volume	6 D/A1 per min; 600 x 2400 dpi; dual-roll; toner-based	Dual-footprint multifunction configuration — high throughput without requiring additional floor space
KIP 940	Organizations with very high print volumes that need both color and B&W at reduced cost per page	High-capacity color & B&W; advanced ink management	Reduced operational cost at scale — built for environments where per-page cost is a primary consideration

Who Uses Wide Format Printers? Industry Use Cases

Wide format printing isn’t a niche requirement — it spans a broad range of industries wherever large-scale, precise output matters. Here’s where KIP (and wide format generally) delivers the most value:

Industry	Primary Use Cases
Architecture & Engineering	Blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and as-builts. Precision is non-negotiable — KIP’s toner-based output delivers the line clarity these documents require.
Construction	Site plans, construction documents, and permit sets that need to be large, legible, and durable on job sites. High-volume output capability is critical during active project phases.
Manufacturing	Assembly diagrams, parts blueprints, and facility layout drawings for large equipment and production environments.
Government & Municipalities	Urban planning maps, public works documents, transportation schematics, and zoning materials. Requires both reliability and cost accountability.
Advertising & Graphic Design	Banners, posters, point-of-sale displays, and retail graphics. Color quality and speed matter here more than the line precision that AEC users need.
Education	Universities and colleges with architecture, engineering, or design programs frequently provide wide format access to students as part of their lab infrastructure.
Print & Copy Shops	Service bureaus for clients who need occasional wide format access — small businesses, local artists, real estate, and event organizers.

Wide Format Comparison: KIP vs. Canon, HP, Epson, Xerox & Ricoh

KIP isn’t the only player in wide format — here’s how the major platforms compare on the specifications that matter most for technical document and graphics environments. ABT carries several of these brands and can help you evaluate which fits your specific workflow and volume.

 

Related reading: KIP Wide Format Slow Scanning — Troubleshooting Guide  |  Wide Format Printers for Builders & Real Estate Agencies 

KIP Managed Print Services: Keeping Your Wide Format Running

A wide format printer is a meaningful capital investment — and like any production equipment, its value depends entirely on uptime. KIP’s managed print services model addresses this with proactive maintenance, monitoring, and on-demand support built around maximizing device availability.

What’s Included Regular scheduled maintenance checks Continuous monitoring of device health On-demand repair support Supply management and replenishment

What It Delivers Reduced unplanned downtime Consistent output quality across every job Lower total cost of ownership Predictable monthly operating cost

For AEC firms, construction companies, and government agencies where a wide format printer going down mid-project has real consequences, a managed print agreement isn’t optional overhead — it’s risk management.

Also Considering Roland Wide Format?

The short version: KIP for high-volume technical document printing (AEC, construction, government). Roland for color graphics, signage, and specialty media production. Canon and HP sit in the middle — capable for both but optimized for neither at the highest volume levels. ABT can walk you through the trade-offs for your specific workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wide Format Printers

Talk to ABT About Wide Format Printing

ABT has been helping Colorado businesses and organizations find the right wide format equipment since 2005. We carry KIP, Canon, HP, and Roland — and we service everything we sell, from Front Range offices in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Westminster. Whether you’re evaluating your first wide format device or replacing an aging system, we’ll help you match the right platform to your specific workflow and volume.

20+ Years serving Colorado businesses

3 Front Range office locations

Local On-site service available

ABT Front Range Offices:

Denver/Centennial: 11999 E. Caley Ave Suite A  |  303-778-0600

Colorado Springs: 1047 Elkton Drive  |  719-434-4080

Westminster/NoCO: 12000 N. Pecos St., Suite 330  |  720-389-2460

KIP, established in the early 1980s, quickly became synonymous with high-quality and technologically advanced wide format printing solutions. Originally focusing on creating blueprint machines for the architecture and engineering sectors, KIP evolved to incorporate digital technologies, becoming a leader in toner-based printing. The transition from analog to digital systems marked a significant turn in KIP’s history, enhancing the speed, quality, and usability of its printers and plotters.

KIP’s Modern Models and Specifications

KIP has consistently innovated its product line to include models that cater to varying needs, ranging from compact, low-volume units to high-volume, multifunction systems. Some of the notable models in their current lineup include:

• KIP 660: A true workhorse, the KIP 660 delivers exceptional color and monochrome print quality. It is equipped with a built-in touchscreen for ease of use and supports cloud printing and scanning, making it ideal for environments where time and quality are of the essence.
• KIP 860: Designed for high-demand environments, the KIP 860 offers dual-footprint configuration which allows for multifunction capabilities without sacrificing space. It’s perfect for large-scale projects that require both speed and precision.
• KIP 940: A high-capacity model that offers both color and black-and-white printing. This printer is suited for producing high volumes of professional-quality prints with reduced operational costs, thanks to its advanced ink management technology.

Industry Usage: From Architecture to Advertising

KIP printers and plotters are versatile tools that span multiple industries. In architecture and engineering, precision is paramount, and KIP devices meet this requirement with high-definition prints that bring blueprints and technical drawings to life. In the advertising sector, the ability to produce vibrant large-scale banners and posters quickly and efficiently makes KIP a preferred choice. Additionally, the government and manufacturing sectors utilize KIP’s wide format solutions for their reliability and ability to handle large print jobs with consistent quality.

So, Does Your Business Need A KIP?

If you think your office needs a wide format printer or plotter, then odds are you’re likely right. We’ve put together a few examples of different industry use cases to help you visualize the possiblities.

1. Architecture and Engineering Firms: These are primary users of KIP wide format printers, relying on them for accurate and detailed prints of architectural drawings, blueprints, and schematics. Professionals such as architects, civil engineers, and construction managers often use these printers.
2. Construction Companies: Large construction firms also form a significant part of the user base, utilizing wide format printers for site plans, blueprints, and construction documents that need to be large and easy to read.
3. Manufacturing Industry: Manufacturing companies, especially those involved in the design and production of large machinery or equipment, use wide format printers to produce detailed assembly diagrams and parts blueprints.
4. Government and Municipalities: Local government offices use wide format printers for urban planning and public works. This includes everything from city planning maps to public transportation schematics.
5. Advertising and Graphic Design: The advertising sector uses wide format printers to create striking promotional materials, including banners, posters, and retail store displays. Graphic designers also rely on these printers for producing high-quality visuals at large scales.
6. Educational Institutions: Universities, colleges, and some schools, particularly those with strong programs in architecture, engineering, or design, often have KIP wide format printers available for student use.
7. Printing and Copy Shops: These businesses often serve as a hub for those needing occasional access to wide format printing, catering to small business owners, local artists, and the general public for various large-format printing needs.

What about the competition, who has the best wide format devices?

KIP wide format printers and plotters face competition from several reputable manufacturers that produce similar equipment tailored for industries requiring large-scale and high-quality printing solutions. Here are some of the main competitors:

• Canon: Known for their imagePROGRAF series, Canon offers a range of wide format printers that are popular in the graphic arts, photography, and technical document markets.
• HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP provides a broad lineup of wide format printers, including the DesignJet and PageWide series, which are well-regarded for their speed, efficiency, and print quality, catering to both design professionals and commercial printers.
• Epson: Epson’s SureColor series is another strong competitor, known for exceptional print quality and reliability, frequently used in graphic design, commercial printing, and photography.
• Xerox: While more renowned for their office and digital presses, Xerox also offers wide format printers that serve professional printing needs in architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.
• Ricoh: Ricoh’s portfolio includes wide format printers that are ideal for CAD/GIS markets and graphic arts, known for their robust performance and support for a variety of media types.
• Océ-Canon: Océ specializes in engineering, manufacturing, and distributing large format printing systems, including a variety of printers and plotters that compete directly with KIP’s offerings.
  
  

Brand/Model	Print Speed	Resolution	Media Handling	Ink Technology	Primary Use Cases
KIP 860	6 D/A1 per minute	600 x 2400 dpi	Dual roll	Toner-based	Architecture, Engineering
Canon imagePROGRAF TX-4000	3 D/A1 per minute	2400 x 1200 dpi	Single roll	Pigment Ink	CAD, GIS, Posters
HP DesignJet T2600	3 D/A1 per minute	2400 x 1200 dpi	Dual roll	Dye-based and Pigment Ink	Graphic Design, Engineering
Epson SureColor T5470	2 D/A1 per minute	2400 x 1200 dpi	Single roll	Pigment Ink	Graphic Design, Commercial Printing
Xerox IJP 2000	20 A1/D per minute	1600 x 1600 dpi	Single roll	Dye-based	High-volume Posters, Retail Graphics
Ricoh MP CW2201SP	3.8 D/A1 per minute	600 x 600 dpi	Dual roll	Pigment Ink	CAD, GIS, AEC

Related Articles: KIP | Wide Format | Slow Scanning & The Advantages of Wide Format Printers For Builders and Large Real Estate Agencies

The Value of KIP Managed Print Services

Optimizing printer performance and ensuring longevity are crucial for businesses relying on wide format printing. KIP’s managed print services offer a solution that maximizes uptime and minimizes costs through proactive maintenance and on-demand support. These services include regular check-ups, immediate repairs, and continuous monitoring of printer health, ensuring that every print job meets the highest standards of quality. For businesses, this means less downtime, reduced waste, and better resource management, translating into higher productivity and profitability.

 

KIP wide format printers and plotters represent a blend of historical excellence and modern technology, with each model designed to meet specific industry needs. Whether for creating detailed architectural drawings or eye-catching promotional materials, KIP provides reliable and efficient printing solutions. Furthermore, with KIP managed print services, businesses can maintain peak operational efficiency, ensuring that their wide format printing capabilities are always ready to deliver on demand. In a world where precision and reliability can define success, KIP stands as a beacon of quality and innovation.

If you’re looking to enhance the precision and efficiency of your large-scale printing tasks, consider the advanced capabilities of KIP wide format printers and plotters. Tailored to meet the needs of professionals across various industries, these machines promise reliability and superior print quality.

To explore how a KIP wide format printer can transform your workflow, or to schedule a live demonstration, contact us today. Leverage the power of KIP’s technology to ensure that your projects always stand out with exceptional clarity and detail. Let’s discuss how KIP can support your business’s specific needs and help you achieve new levels of productivity and excellence.