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HP DesignJet T1600
36" color graphics & photo printer
- ModelT1600
- Prints36" wide
- Score68/100
Authorized HP dealerGenuine hardware & ink
1-year warranty includedExtendable to 5 years
Free shippingContinental U.S.
Plotter specialistsAEC experts, not just sellers
Analyst take
- The six-color system includes gray, photo black, and matte black alongside cyan, magenta, and yellow for AEC drawings and color-coded documents.
- Native support for PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, TIFF, JPEG, and CALS G4 suits common AEC file flows.
- The HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in is the relevant family alternative when dual-roll handling is needed.
Not sure if the T1600 is right for you?
Compare key specs and an AI analyst read-out against similar models.
- Wide-format reach Prints up to 36" wide on rolls and sheets.
- Fine detail 2400 x 1200 DPI maximum resolution for crisp line work.
- Ink platform Cyan, Photo black, Matte black, Magenta, Yellow, Gray.
- Analyst score Scores 68/100 in our class-relative rating.
Overview
A six-ink 36-inch plotter built for overnight construction sets that come out flat
The HP DesignJet T1600 36-in PostScript, Plus Edition is a current six-ink thermal-inkjet plotter aimed squarely at AEC production. It runs cyan, magenta, yellow, gray, plus separate photo black and matte black, at up to 2400 x 1200 DPI. In practice that means crisp, readable line work on bond and, when you switch to coated or matte stock, color coordination drawings that hold their distinctions — the last few percent of a saturated red where a color-coded utility plan lives. We report resolution as a manufacturer figure; measured gamut depends on the media under the printhead.
- Overnight bid, permit and as-built sets — HP rates the integrated top stacker at up to 100 D-size prints, which keeps sheets flat rather than nested in a cloth bin.
- Mixed CAD and PDF workflows — PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2 and the Adobe PDF Print Engine handle layered Revit and AutoCAD exports.
- Managed environments — HP Security Manager, Web Jetadmin and optional SmartTracker cover IT and chargeback.
- Firms wanting cloud submission via HP Click and HP Build Workspace.
Single-roll design is the main limit. Shops that swap media constantly should look at the dual-roll HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in; teams needing 44-inch width should consider the HP DesignJet T1700 44-in.
- 36″Max print width
- 1,211 ft²/hRated speed
- 6Ink channels
- 2,400 dpiMax resolution
- 12 moIncluded warranty
Spec Analysis
overall
overall
At a glance
- Print width
- 36 in (roll); custom sizes to 36 x 48 in
- Ink set
- 6 cartridges — C, M, Y, Gray, Photo black, Matte black
- Max resolution
- 2400 x 1200 DPI (HP figure)
- Languages
- PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, TIFF, JPEG, HP-RTL, CALS G4
- Ink
- HP 730 inks
- Footprint (W x D x H)
- 54.7 x 29.9 x 42.5 in; 180.8 lbs
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi Direct, HP ePrint, direct printing; HP Click App
- Power / efficiency
- 10 W sleep, 0.3 W off; ENERGY STAR
Ideal for: firms running unattended overnight D-size construction sets that need PostScript-accurate PDFs and flat, ordered output. Not the tool for: high roll-swap shops (see the T1600dr 36-in) or teams needing 44-inch width (see the T1700 44-in).
Expert analysis
What you should know
Key takeaways
- The six-color system includes gray, photo black, and matte black alongside cyan, magenta, and yellow for AEC drawings and color-coded documents.
- Native support for PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, TIFF, JPEG, and CALS G4 suits common AEC file flows.
- The HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in is the relevant family alternative when dual-roll handling is needed.
- The supplied record identifies this as a printer, so it should not be selected where integrated scanning and copying are core requirements.
- Color fidelity for critical renders or branded output should be tested on the actual media because no measured ICC gamut data is supplied.
At the end of a coordination meeting, the question is rarely whether a drawing can be printed; it is whether the fine MEP overlay, revision clouds, and lineweights still read cleanly on ordinary bond when the set reaches the trailer. The HP DesignJet T1600 36-in PostScript Printer Plus Edition is a color, 36-inch AEC printer built for that daily mix of CAD, PDF, HP-GL/2, and construction-document output.
Its six-color ink set includes cyan, photo black, matte black, magenta, yellow, and gray. That combination is useful when grayscale drawings need disciplined neutral structure while color-coded utilities, phasing plans, GIS maps, and presentation sheets need clearer separation. The 2400 x 1200 DPI specification indicates the addressable resolution; the more important operational question remains whether the submitted PDF, driver settings, and chosen media preserve the intent of the file.
2400 x 1200 DPIMaximum resolution
36" x 48" (914 x 1219 mm)Maximum custom media size
54.7" (1390 mm)Installed footprint
10 WSleep power consumption
Where the workflow fits
This model is particularly well suited to architecture, engineering, surveying, and construction teams that need in-house sheets up to 36 inches wide without turning a project office into a reprographics room. Direct printing, Wi-Fi Direct, and HP ePrint support varied submission paths, while its native languages—PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, TIFF, JPEG, and CALS G4—cover the file types that still move through AEC document control.
For IT and print-room staff, the supplied software list matters: HP Click App, HP Click Driver for Windows 11, HP Web Jetadmin, and HP Security Manager are included, with HP SmartTracker and HP SmartStream listed as optional. Those tools can be more consequential than a resolution figure when several disciplines are submitting sets at once. See how it sits in the 36-inch AEC printer class.
Color and linework in practical terms
The machine renders color rather than merely adding it to a drawing. Gray and two blacks give the system ingredients for neutral CAD output, while cyan, magenta, and yellow support markups and coordination layers. Think of the quiet cyan edge of a utility route against a dense grayscale base: that separation is valuable only if it remains legible after the sheet leaves the printer.
There is no desk-measured ICC gamut data in the supplied record, so it would be hand-waving to make a claim about photographic gamut or color accuracy. For documents where a corporate color, render, or GIS classification must be tightly controlled, test the actual paper and PDF. The supported media list includes bond, coated, matte, glossy, semi-glossy, satin, photo, and heavy papers. Consumables are HP 730 inks and the HP 727 printhead.
Estimate plot time for a representative set, then allow separately for file processing, media loading, collection, and any operator review.
One set: – · Weekly plotting time: –
Computed from the manufacturer's rated 1,211 ft²/h. Real-world mixed sets run slower — treat this as a best case for comparing machines, not a promise.
Family position and limits
The practical step-up within this family is the HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in, whose catalog description identifies it as dual-roll. That advantage matters most where bond and coated media, or different sheet formats, must stay loaded for frequent switching. Firms that regularly require wider output should also assess the HP DesignJet T1700 44-in or HP DesignJet T1700dr 44-in.
At the other end, the HP DesignJet T1530 36-in remains a relevant 36-inch family comparison. This T1600 configuration is not the right tool where scanning and copying are central requirements: the provided product record describes a printer, not a multifunction system. Nor should a buyer infer unattended mixed-roll production from a single-roll specification; validate the complete media-handling configuration and the local service arrangement before committing.
Compare the relevant alternatives
HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-inConsider the dual-roll version when media switching is part of the daily workload.HP DesignJet T1700 44-inAssess the wider format where 36-inch output constrains the drawing set.Compare T1600 configurationsReview this printer beside the dual-roll T1600dr.36-inch AEC printer rankingsPlace the T1600 in its wider class context.
The read
The HP DesignJet T1600 36-in PostScript Printer Plus Edition is a sensible fit for teams that value 36-inch color and monochrome drawing output, broad AEC file-language support, and managed submission tools in a business environment. Its trade-off is straightforward: organizations whose productivity depends on keeping multiple media rolls ready, producing wider sheets, or scanning active markups should evaluate the appropriate family alternative rather than asking a single printer configuration to cover every document task.
Spec analysis
How the specs grade
Overall performance
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100% spec coverage
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Category leaders best color graphics & photo printers, by dimension
Verified specifications
The specs that decide it
| Maximum print width | 36 in |
|---|---|
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Printing colors | Cyan, Photo black, Matte black, Magenta, Yellow, Gray |
| Number of print cartridges | 6 |
| Page description languages | PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, TIFF, JPEG, HP-RTL, CALS G4 |
Specifications
Full technical detail
Max resolution2400 x 1200 DPI
Max print width36"
ColorColor
Use caseCAD / Technical
Printing
| Color | Yes |
|---|---|
| Printing colors | Cyan, Photo black, Matte black, Magenta, Yellow, Gray |
| Resolution color | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Number of print cartridges | 6 |
| Page description languages | PostScript 3, PDF 1.7, HP-GL/2, TIFF, JPEG, HP-RTL, CALS G4 |
Performance
| HP segment | Business |
|---|---|
| Certification | Compliant with Class A requirements, including: USA (FCC rules), Canada (ICES), EU (EMC Directive), Australia (ACMA), New Zealand (RSM), China (CCC), Japan (VCCI), Korea (KCC) |
Paper handling
| Custom media sizes | 210 x 279 to 914 x 1219 mm |
|---|---|
| Paper tray media types | Coated paper, Semi-glossy paper, Glossy paper, Bond paper, Photo paper, Matte paper, Heavy paper, Satin paper |
| ISO A-series sizes (A0…A9) | A0, A1, A2, A3, A4 |
Ports & interfaces
| Wi-Fi Direct | Yes |
|---|---|
| Direct printing | Yes |
| Mobile printing technologies | HP ePrint |
Technical details
| Box contents | HP DesignJet T1600 Printer, printer stand and media bin, spindle(s)[6], printheads, introductory ink cartridges, user guide, power cords |
|---|
Weight & dimensions
| Depth | 29.9" (760 mm) |
|---|---|
| Width | 54.7" (1390 mm) |
| Height | 42.5" (1080 mm) |
| Weight | 180.8 lbs (82 kg) |
Power
| AC input frequency | 50/60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Power consumption (off) | 0.3 W |
| Power consumption (sleep) | 10 W |
Operational conditions
| Storage temperature (T-T) | -25 – 55 °C |
|---|---|
| Operating temperature (T-T) | 5 – 35 °C |
| Operating relative humidity (H-H) | 20 – 80% |
Other features
| UNSPSC-code | 43212104 |
|---|---|
| Electromagnetic compatibility | Compliant with Class A requirements, including: USA (FCC rules), Canada (ICES), EU (EMC Directive), Australia (ACMA), New Zealand (RSM), China (CCC), Japan (VCCI), Korea (KCC) |
Packaging data
| Package depth | 30.2" (767 mm) |
|---|---|
| Package width | 58.1" (1477 mm) |
| Package height | 31.5" (800 mm) |
| Package weight | 249.1 lbs (113 kg) |
| Bundled software | HP Click App, HP App, HP Web Jetadmin, HP Security Manager, HP SmartTracker (optional), HP Click Driver for Windows 11, HP Build Workspace, HP SmartStream (optional) |
Sustainability
| Sustainability certificates | ENERGY STAR |
|---|
Brand-specific features
| HP GTIN (EAN/UPC) | 199896725873. 199896725897 |
|---|---|
| HP dynamic security | Yes |
| HP GTIN (EAN/UPC) with options | (B19) 199896725873; (B1K) 199896725897 |
Everything that fits the HP DesignJet T1600
The full supplies hub lists every cartridge, printhead, roll and accessory verified against the manufacturer's own documentation for this machine.
12 ink cartridges · 18 paper & media items · 3 accessories · 12 coverage plans
HP DesignJet T1600 ink and paper →Supplies
Compatible ink, printheads & media
Genuine consumables that fit the HP DesignJet T1600 36-in PostScript Printer, Plus Edition — only the cartridges, printheads and media compatible with this model.
Ink Cartridges 12
HP 730 300-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 730 300-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 730 300-ml Gray Ink Cartridge
HP 730 300-ml Photo Black Ink Cartridge
HP 730 300-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 730 300-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Photo Black Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Gray Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 730 130-ml Yellow Ink CartridgePaper & Media 12
Representative image10 Mil Water-resistant Blockout Display FilmRepresentative image11 Mil Water-Resistant Synthetic BannerRepresentative image180gsm Solvent Satin PE PaperRepresentative image200gsm Special Matte Photo PaperRepresentative image230gsm Special Matte Photo PaperRepresentative imageWSL 28LB Simple Inkjet Coated Matte Paper (C2S) (448)Representative image5 Mil Water-Resistant Self-Adh Vinyl (3" AC)Representative image6 Mil Water-Resistant Self-Adhesive PolypropyleneRepresentative image24LB Inkjet Coated Matte Paper Economy (714)Representative image24LB Inkjet Bond Paper (731)Representative image6.5mil Matte Coated Paper w/ PSA (746PSA)Representative image18LB Inkjet Bond Paper (Translucent) (750)Coverage & Support Plans 6
Hp 3 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 1 (UC6M2E)Hp 3 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 2 (UC6N0E)
Hp 4 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 1 (UC6M3E)Hp 4 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 2 (UC6N1E)
Hp 5 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 1 (UC6M4E)Hp 5 Year Next Business Day Onsite Hardware Support W/Dmr For T1600 2 (UC6N2E)Questions
Straight answers
Does this model include the top stacker?
Yes. The T1600 series uses an integrated top-delivery stacker that HP rates at up to 100 D-size prints, collecting and flattening sheets rather than dropping them into a cloth catch-bin. That matters most for firms printing large sets overnight and expecting them ordered in the morning.
What does the PostScript designation actually add for AEC work?
This edition includes PostScript 3 and the Adobe PDF Print Engine, which helps process complex, multi-layered Revit and AutoCAD PDF exports without stitching errors or dropped data. If your submissions are mostly straight HP-GL/2 CAD plots, that advantage matters less.
Is it a single-roll or dual-roll machine?
Single roll. If your workflow constantly alternates between bond and coated stock, or between two sizes, the dual-roll HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in reduces manual swaps. The trade-off with a single roll is more operator intervention on mixed-media days.
How does color hold on coated media?
The six-ink set with a dedicated gray produces smoother neutrals for renderings and cleaner separation on color-coded plans. Actual gamut depends on the media measured — coated and matte stocks such as the Dietzgen 46LB Inkjet Coated Matte Paper (747) render color differently than plain bond.
Can IT manage security and job accounting?
Yes. HP Security Manager and HP Web Jetadmin support fleet security and administration, and HP SmartTracker (optional) covers departmental chargeback. HP Dynamic Security is enabled, so plan on HP 730 inks.
Should I consider a wider model instead?
If you routinely output E-size on 44-inch rolls, look at the HP DesignJet T1700 44-in, or its dual-roll sibling the HP DesignJet T1700dr 44-in. For most 36-inch D-size construction workflows, the T1600 is correctly sized.
Ready to put the HP DesignJet T1600 to work?
Configuration, media and a quote tailored to your workflow — from AEC plotter specialists.