HP DesignJet T850 36-inch Plotter Review

Introduction

The HP DesignJet T850 is a professional-grade 36-inch large format plotter built for architects, engineers, and design studios that demand precise, high-resolution line work and reliable throughput. With up to 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi and pigment-based inks, the T850 is engineered to reproduce crisp technical drawings, vibrant renders, and large-scale posters without the smearing or fade common in lesser wide-format devices.

Beyond image quality, this plotter is designed to solve common bottlenecks in busy production workflows: slow D-size turnaround, frequent media swaps, and fragile connectivity. The T850 addresses these pain points with fast D-size output (approx. 25 seconds per page), versatile media handling up to 36 inches wide, and Gigabit Ethernet plus Wi‑Fi for seamless network integration — all backed by a two-year Care Pack for extended peace of mind. For teams that need dependable, accurate large-format prints day after day, the T850 brings performance, reliability, and cost-conscious ink management together.

Overview

Physically imposing yet thoughtfully organized, the DesignJet T850 sits on a bundled stand with integrated media bin and spindle, turning a heavy 158-pound device into a tidy footprint for a studio or print shop. Its control panel is touch-enabled for local job management, and the included 1 GB memory ensures complex files are handled smoothly. The printer’s thermal inkjet technology paired with pigment inks means superior line definition, durable prints, and excellent resistance to water and fading — a must for technical documentation and long-term archives.

Under the hood the T850 balances speed and precision. It pumps out D-size drawings in roughly 25 seconds (about 90 D-size prints/hr under continuous mode) while maintaining a maximum color resolution of 2400 x 1200 dpi. Connectivity covers Ethernet, USB, and Wi‑Fi 802.11b/g/n, allowing PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones to print directly or via networked workflows. Ideal users include architects, civil engineers, GIS teams, construction firms, and graphic designers who need consistent wide-format output with manageable running costs and low downtime.

Features

Superior 2400 x 1200 dpi Output: This high-resolution thermal inkjet engine renders ultra-fine lines, crisp text, and smooth gradients across technical drawings and posters. The optimized 2400 x 1200 dpi setting reduces artifacts on linework and improves color transitions on large graphics, producing professional-grade plots suitable for client presentations and permit submissions.

Fast D-Size Throughput: Rated at approximately 25 seconds per D-size sheet (roughly 90 D-size prints per hour), the T850 accelerates project delivery and reduces queue times. Faster turnaround is especially valuable when multiple revisions are required — the printer gets new versions out quickly so teams can iterate without waiting hours for large prints.

Versatile Media Handling: Supports media from A4 to A0 and up to 36-inch-wide rolls, plus cut sheets up to 13″ x 19″. The included spindle, manual feed, and media bin let you switch between glossy film, high-resolution paper, banners, and standard bond stock with minimal fuss, enabling one device to cover posters, maps, and render prints.

Robust Connectivity and Workflow Integration: Gigabit Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 802.11b/g/n, and USB ports provide multiple print paths for desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. The T850 also supports standard network printing protocols and integrates with common CAD and GIS software, reducing friction when printing complex multi-layer files from diverse platforms.

Cost-effective Pigment Ink System: Four pigment-based cartridges (C, M, Y, mK) are optimized for longevity and reduced replacement frequency. Pigment inks resist water and fading, which lowers reprint rates and archival degradation, and HP’s cartridge design simplifies swaps to minimize downtime.

Benefits

Precision That Protects Your Reputation

Deliver permit-ready blueprints and client-facing renderings with the fine line quality and crisp text representation that preserves professional credibility.

Faster Project Turnaround

Shorter D-size print times streamline revisions and client approvals, helping teams meet tight deadlines and increase billable throughput without adding staff.

Flexible Media to Match Every Job

From waterproof site maps to glossy posters, being able to handle varied media in one device reduces the need for external specialty shops and speeds delivery.

Lower Long-Term Running Costs

Pigment inks and larger, efficient cartridges reduce the frequency of replacements and reprints, cutting overall cost per square foot compared with dye-based alternatives.

Network-Ready for Team Environments

Robust Ethernet and Wi‑Fi support lets multiple stakeholders submit jobs from CAD workstations or mobile devices, minimizing manual handoffs and saving time.

Usages

Perfect for Architecture & Engineering Firms

Produce permit drawings, detailed line-work, and multi-sheet set prints with the precision and speed needed to keep projects moving.

Ideal for GIS and Mapping Departments

Large-format maps with fine topographical and cadastral detail print cleanly; pigment inks hold up to lamination and outdoor applications when needed.

Great for Poster, Signage, and Render Printing

High-resolution color output and support for glossy films and high-resolution paper make it suitable for client presentations, marketing collateral, and exhibition graphics.

Central Print Hub for Small to Medium Studios

With network printing and a compact integrated stand, the T850 serves as a reliable centralized device for teams producing a mix of technical and visual output.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptionally high 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution for clear technical linework and vibrant color posters.
• Fast D-size output (~25 seconds) increases productivity during high-volume periods.
• Flexible media handling from A4 to 36-inch rolls with an included stand and media bin.
• Pigment-based inks deliver durable, water-resistant prints and lower archival fade.
• Robust connectivity (Gigabit Ethernet, Wi‑Fi) and extended 2-year Care Pack for business continuity.

Cons

• Heavy and large footprint (158 lbs) requires dedicated space and professional installation.
• Initial cost and consumables are higher than desktop printers — an investment for teams, not casual users.
• Sheetfed scanner listing may cause confusion; this model is primarily a print device for wide-format media.
• Limited onboard memory (128 MB) compared with some higher-end production plotters handling very large files.

FAQs

Can the T850 print borderless posters?

Yes — the T850 supports wide-format printing on roll media and can produce edge-to-edge output on compatible substrates, ideal for posters and signage.

What file types and software does it support?

The printer integrates with industry-standard CAD and graphics workflows. It handles PDF, HP-GL/2, TIFF, JPEG, and common raster/vector files compatible with most CAD and design packages.

Is this printer suitable for photo-quality prints?

While optimized for technical line work and large-format graphics, the 2400 x 1200 dpi resolution and pigment inks can produce attractive photographic posters. For lab-grade photo prints, a dedicated photo printer may still offer finer color gamut control.

How much maintenance is required?

Routine maintenance is minimal: occasional printhead checks and ink cartridge replacements. The included two-year Care Pack reduces downtime with support and coverage for common service events.

Does it support duplex printing?

Large-format roll printers are primarily single-sided. The T850 is designed for single-sided wide-format output (duplex is not applicable for 36-inch roll media).

Product Specifications

Printer Type	36-inch Large Format Thermal Inkjet Plotter
Print Speed (PPM)	Up to 2.4 ppm (D-size ≈ 25 sec per page / ~90 D-size prints per hour)
Resolution (DPI)	2400 x 1200 dpi (optimized)
Connectivity	Gigabit Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 802.11b/g/n, USB 2.0
Duplex	Not applicable (single-sided wide-format printing)
Supported Media Sizes	A4 to A0; up to 36-inch-wide rolls; cut sheets up to 13″ x 19″
Ink/Toner Type	Pigment-based HP 738 DesignJet Ink (C, M, Y, matte K)
Dimensions	27.6″ D x 55.4″ W x 38.1″ H
Weight	158 pounds
Power Consumption	35 Watts
Included Components	Printer, printhead, introductory ink cartridges, stand, spindle, power cord, quick guide
Warranty	Extended 2-year limited warranty (Care Pack included)

Ratings

Print Quality (Color & Sharpness)	4.8
Ink Efficiency / Yield	4.3
Connectivity & App Integration	4.1
Print Speed (Pages per Minute)	3.9
Build Quality & Design	4.5
Value for Money	4.0

Recommendation

The HP DesignJet T850 is recommended for architecture and engineering practices, GIS departments, and design studios that require high-resolution wide-format output with fast D-size turnaround and durable pigment inks. Purchase it if you need reliable, accurate plots and high-capacity media handling backed by extended warranty support.

If you are a casual user, hobbyist, or require desktop photo printing rather than large-format technical output, consider smaller-format photo or office printers — the T850 is optimized for professional workflows and represents a workplace-level investment.

Conclusion

The HP DesignJet T850 blends the resolution and color fidelity necessary for professional technical drawings with the workflow robustness demanded by busy teams. Its 2400 x 1200 dpi output reproduces fine linework and dense text cleanly, while pigment inks extend print longevity and reduce reprint risk. Fast D-size prints and flexible media handling translate directly into time saved on revisions and faster client approvals.

While its size, initial cost, and consumable prices reflect its professional positioning, the two-year Care Pack and efficient ink system make the T850 a cost-effective central print device for organizations that produce large-format output regularly. For firms that depend on precision, speed, and reliable network integration, the DesignJet T850 is a strategic tool that raises productivity and protects the quality of deliverables over the long term.