23 Jul HP XL 3800 vs Canon PlotWave 3500
The Large-Format Printer Battle You Need to See
In this in-depth comparison, we benchmark the HP DesignJet XL 3800 against the Canon PlotWave 3500—two powerhouse printers in the wide-format arena. The HP shines in color speed, eco-efficiency, and operator convenience, while the Canon PlotWave remains a solid choice for pure monochrome throughput. Keep reading as we explore which model fits your workflow best.
Speed & Productivity
HP DesignJet XL 3800 delivers lightning-fast performance: up to 6 A1/D pages per minute, with the first color page out in just 20 seconds
Canon PlotWave 3500, a toner-based powerhouse, arguably prints the same 6 pages per minute but takes roughly 29 seconds to deliver the first sheet
Verdict: Want the fastest first-page turnaround? HP leads — especially critical for quick CAD or technical printing workflows.
Print Quality & Technology
HP XL 3800 uses pigment-based ink for vibrant, fade-resistant color (ideal for both technical and visual prints), while also excelling in crisp-line CAD output.
Canon PlotWave 3500 employs toner for sharp monochrome prints, but doesn’t match HP’s color fidelity.
Verdict: For mostly black‑and‑white jobs, Canon holds its ground—but HP becomes the better choice when color accuracy matters.
Workflow & Usability
HP offers one-click copy/scan, spindle-less loading, and remote printing. Plus, it boasts a user-friendly 15″ touchscreen
Canon requires spindles, takes an extra pre-scan step, and uses a simpler UI.
Verdict: HP streamlines daily operations—especially helpful for teams managing high volumes or mixed-use printing/scanning.
Sustainability & Energy Use
HP XL 3800 is energy-efficient (~150 W) and certified by EPEAT Gold, featuring recycled plastics and cardboard cartridges
Canon PlotWave 3500 draws around 1,500 W, with only EPEAT Silver certification—a big contrast in eco-impact
Verdict: HP is the green champion—lower energy, recyclable parts, and smaller carbon footprint.
Final Take
Choose HP DesignJet XL 3800 if you want:
- The fastest color-first-page prints in its class
- One-machine workflow (print, scan, copy, remote access)
- Energy savings, sustainability, and modern UI
Go with Canon PlotWave 3500 if you need:
- Reliable, sharp mono printing at scale
- Toner-based durability for black-and-white heavy jobs
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