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HP DesignJet T790
44" color graphics & photo printer
- ModelT790
- Prints44" wide
- Score53/100
Authorized HP dealerGenuine hardware & ink
Manufacturer warrantyExtension plans available
Free shippingContinental U.S.
Plotter specialistsAEC experts, not just sellers
Analyst take
- The T790 is a 44-inch color thermal-inkjet printer intended for full-size AEC drawing and presentation output.
- Its specified ±0.1% line accuracy and 0.00236-inch minimum line width are directly relevant to technical-document readability.
- HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, and TIFF support suit established CAD and PDF-oriented production environments.
Not sure if the T790 is right for you?
Compare key specs and an AI analyst read-out against similar models.
- Wide-format reach Prints up to 44" wide on rolls and sheets.
- Fine detail 2400 x 1200 DPI maximum resolution for crisp line work.
- Ink platform Cyan, Gray, Magenta, Pigment matte black, Yellow.
- Connectivity Ethernet for shared team printing.
- Analyst score Scores 53/100 in our class-relative rating.
Overview
Built for the work
HP Designjet T790 44", Thermal inkjet, 2400 x 1200 DPI, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, TIFF, Cyan, Gray, Magenta, Pigment matte black, Yellow, A0 (841 x 1189 mm), Bond paper, Coated paper
- 44″Max print width
- 6Ink channels
- 2,400 dpiMax resolution
Spec Analysis
overall
overall
Where it performs best
Size / Fit
85
Print Quality
84
Media Handling
48
Class best is 79. How we grade →
Expert analysis
What you should know
Key takeaways
- The T790 is a 44-inch color thermal-inkjet printer intended for full-size AEC drawing and presentation output.
- Its specified ±0.1% line accuracy and 0.00236-inch minimum line width are directly relevant to technical-document readability.
- HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, and TIFF support suit established CAD and PDF-oriented production environments.
- The unit supports roll paper and media from 60 to 328 g/m², but the supplied data does not establish automated roll switching or finishing.
- The HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in is the more relevant in-family alternative when dual-roll operation matters, while the HP DesignJet T830 24-in addresses integrated scan/copy needs at a smaller width.
A full-width civil plan or a dense coordination sheet succeeds when the eye can follow the fine black line without hesitation. The HP T790 44-inch is a color thermal-inkjet wide-format printer for that everyday AEC terrain: CAD sheets, PDF issue sets, GIS maps, marked-up drawings, and presentation-oriented output on bond, coated, or photo media.
Its appeal is straightforward. It accepts roll media, reaches A0 output, supports HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, and TIFF, and specifies ±0.1% line accuracy with a minimum line width of 0.00236 inches. Those are useful foundations for teams whose work is still anchored in readable construction documents rather than occasional poster printing. The specification deserves context, however: this is a printer, not an integrated scan/copy system, and its network and operating-system fit should be reviewed carefully by IT.
A0 (33" x 47" (841 x 1189 mm))Maximum print sizeSuitable for full-size plan output.
+/- 0.1%Line accuracyA relevant specification for scaled drawings.
2400 x 1200 DPIMaximum resolutionFor detailed lines and color rendering.
0.031" (0.8 mm)Media thicknessSupports a range of paper and compatible media.
Where the T790 fits in an AEC print room
The T790 is particularly well suited to an architecture, engineering, survey, or contractor office that needs a dedicated wide-format device for recurring plan output. A 44-inch roll width gives room for large drawing formats, while the supported media range of 60 to 328 g/m² accommodates ordinary bond as well as coated sheets and selected presentation media. The five-color system—cyan, gray, magenta, pigment matte black, and yellow—includes gray and matte black, a sensible combination for drawings where neutral text, hatch patterns, and grayscale imagery need to remain distinct.
For teams sending a mixture of CAD-derived and PDF-based work, the presence of HP-GL/2 and HP-RTL matters: those languages remain familiar in many established plotting workflows. USB Type-A and Fast Ethernet provide direct local and network connection paths. The practical question is not whether a file can be sent, but whether the firm’s driver deployment, authentication policy, and current endpoint systems have been tested with the listed Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Citrix environments.
Output detail and media choices
The stated 2400 x 1200 DPI resolution and 6 pl/9 pl ink-drop sizes point to fine-detail capability, but AEC buyers should judge it with their own line weights, screened fills, aerial imagery, and color-coded coordination layers. Resolution is not a guarantee that every PDF renders identically; embedded transparencies, driver settings, paper choice, and source-file construction all have a say. On a good coated sheet, the difference often appears at the cyan edge of a utility overlay or in the smallest annotation beside a crowded detail.
The unit takes rolls up to 3,582.7 inches long and 5.31 inches in diameter. That can support extended runs, although the supplied information does not establish automatic roll switching, collation, or finishing capability. Firms producing mixed-size permit sets, folded packages, or frequent bid revisions should therefore map the operator touches around the printer, not just the engine specification. Compatible supplies include HP 72 inks and HP 72 printheads; confirm the exact approved consumable configuration before ordering.
Family context: width, scanning, and roll strategy
Within the listed HP family, the HP DesignJet T770 44-in shares the 44-inch format and 2400 x 1200 DPI specification, making it the closest same-width reference point. The HP DesignJet T730 36-in is the sensible step-down for offices that do not need 44-inch output. At the other end, the HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in adds a dual-roll configuration, a meaningful operational difference where teams regularly alternate between bond and coated media or manage competing job types.
If scan/copy is central to the workflow, the HP DesignJet T830 24-in is explicitly identified as a scanner/MFP, though its 24-inch format is a substantial change in output capacity. The T790 can work with the HP HD Pro 42-in Scanner or HP SD Pro 44-in Scanner accessories listed for it, but buyers should validate the complete configuration and workflow before treating it as a replacement for a purpose-built multifunction environment. For a direct family comparison, use the T790 and T1600dr comparison.
Compare related wide-format options
HP DesignJet T770 44-inA same-width, same-resolution in-family reference.HP DesignJet T730 36-inA narrower thermal-inkjet alternative for smaller-format needs.HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-inA dual-roll in-family option for media-switching workflows.Wide-format class rankingReview the T790 alongside its class peers.
The read
The HP T790 44-inch is a credible fit for AEC teams that need full-size color plan output, established CAD language support, and a dedicated roll-fed device with specified fine-line accuracy. It becomes more compelling when the workload is primarily plotting and presentation output on a defined set of media. It may be less appropriate for offices that need integrated scanning, automated mixed-media production, or a more modernized endpoint and network validation path. Before committing, run representative PDF, CAD, and GIS files; test the smallest text and the densest color overlays; and have the dealer document the supported driver, service, and accessory configuration for the actual office workflow.
Spec analysis
How the specs grade
Overall performance
within color graphics & photo printers · 10 compared
Class best 79 — Epson SureColor T7770DR
70% spec coverage
- This printer
- Epson SureColor T7770DR
Category leaders best color graphics & photo printers, by dimension
Verified specifications
The specs that decide it
| Maximum print width | 44 in |
|---|---|
| Print technology | Thermal inkjet |
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Printing colors | Cyan, Gray, Magenta, Pigment matte black, Yellow |
| Number of print cartridges | 6 |
| Page description languages | HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, TIFF |
| Maximum print size | A0 (841 x 1189 mm) |
| Media thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Maximum roll diameter | 5.31" (13.5 cm) |
| Ethernet | Yes |
| Power consumption | 120 W |
Specifications
Full technical detail
Print technologyThermal inkjet
Max resolution2400 x 1200 DPI
Max print width44"
ColorColor
ConnectivityEthernet (Gigabit LAN), USB
Use caseCAD / Technical
Printing
| Color | Yes |
|---|---|
| Printing colors | Cyan, Gray, Magenta, Pigment matte black, Yellow |
| Print technology | Thermal inkjet |
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Number of print cartridges | 6 |
| Page description languages | HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, TIFF |
Paper handling
| Roll paper | Yes |
|---|---|
| Media thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Maximum print size | A0 (841 x 1189 mm) |
| Maximum roll length | 3582.7" (91 m) |
| Maximum roll diameter | 5.31" (13.5 cm) |
| Paper tray media types | Bond paper, Coated paper |
| Recommended media weight | 60 – 328 g/m² |
| ISO A-series sizes (A0…A9) | A0, A1, A2, A3, A4 |
Ports & interfaces
| USB port | Yes |
|---|---|
| Ethernet LAN | Yes |
| USB connector | USB Type-A |
| RJ-45 ports quantity | 1 |
| USB 2.0 ports quantity | 1 |
| Ethernet interface type | Fast Ethernet |
Weight & dimensions
| Weight | 179.9 lbs (81.6 kg) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 69.7 x 27.6 x 41.3" (1770 x 701 x 1050 mm) |
Power
| Power consumption (off) | 0.1 W |
|---|---|
| Power consumption (standby) | 27 W |
| Power consumption (typical) | 120 W |
Other features
| Ink drop | 6 pl (C, G, M, pK); 9 pl (mK, Y) |
|---|---|
| Photo paper | Yes |
| Coated paper | Yes |
| Line accuracy | +/- 0.1% |
| Minimum line width | 0.00236" (0.0600 mm) |
Sustainability
| Sustainability certificates | ENERGY STAR |
|---|
System requirements
| Mac compatibility | Yes |
|---|---|
| Compatible operating systems | Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate/Professional/Home Premium, Windows Vista Ultimate/Business/Home Premium; Windows XP (32-bit, 64-bit) Professional/Home, Server 2008 (32-bit, 64-bit), Server 2003 (32-bit, 64-bit); Mac OS X v10.5, v10.6; Citrix XenApp; Citrix XenServer; Linux |
Everything that fits the HP DesignJet T790
The full supplies hub lists every cartridge, printhead, roll and accessory verified against the manufacturer's own documentation for this machine.
14 ink cartridges · 3 printheads · 75 paper & media items · 4 accessories
HP DesignJet T790 ink and paper →Supplies
Compatible ink, printheads & media
Genuine consumables that fit the HP DesignJet T790 44-in — only the cartridges, printheads and media compatible with this model.
Ink Cartridges 14
HP Premium Plus Gloss 610 mm x 15.2 m (24 in x 50 ft) White
HP 72 130-ml Gray Ink Cartridge
HP Premium Gloss 610 mm x 15.2 m (24 in x 50 ft)
HP Premium Gloss 914 mm x 22.9 m (36 in x 75 ft)
HP Premium Gloss 1067 mm x 30.5 m (42 in x 100 ft) White
HP Premium Matte White
HP 72 130-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 72 130-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 72 130-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 72 130-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 72 130-ml Photo Black Ink Cartridge
HP 72B 130-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 72B 130-ml Gray Ink Cartridge
HP 72B 130-ml Photo Black Ink CartridgePrintheads 3
Paper & Media 75
Representative image16 Mil WR Opaque Scrim Vinyl (3″ AC)Representative image15 Mil Water-Resistant Econo Scrim VinylRepresentative image11 Mil Water-Resistant Synthetic BannerRepresentative image180gsm Solvent Satin PE PaperRepresentative image5 Mil Polycarbonate LaminateRepresentative image230gsm Special Matte Photo PaperRepresentative image200gsm Special Matte Photo PaperRepresentative image10 Mil Water-resistant Blockout Display FilmRepresentative image10 Mil White Opaque BackerRepresentative image5 Mil Water-Resistant Self-Adh Vinyl (3" AC)Representative image6 Mil Water-Resistant Self-Adhesive PolypropyleneRepresentative image24LB Inkjet Coated Matte Paper Economy (714)
HP C3868A plotter paper 45.7 m 91.4 cm
HP C3869A plotter paper
HP White Matte Polyester Film
HP Q1420A photo paper Brown, White
HP Q1760A large format media 45.7 m Matte
HP Matte Film 610 mm x 38.1 m (24 in x 125 ft)Representative imageHP Bright White Inkjet Paper, 36 in x 300 ft (C6810A)
HP C6035A large format media 45.7 m
HP C6036A printing paper Matte White
HP C6567B plotter paper
HP Universal Semi-gloss Photo Paper
HP Clear Film 174 gsm-610 mm x 22.9 m (24 in x 75 ft)
HP Q1421A photo paper Brown, WhiteRepresentative imageHP Heavyweight Coated Paper, 42 in x 100 ft (C6569C)
HP Adhesive Vinyl 914 mm x 12.2 m (36 in x 40 ft)
HP Q1956A large format media 67.5 m
HP Q1961A large format media
HP Q1962A large format media
HP Q5486A photo paper Black, Blue, White
HP Q5487A photo paper Black, Blue, White
HP Q5489A photo paper
HP Q5491A photo paper
HP Q6579A photo paper Brown, White
HP Q6580A photo paper Matte
HP Q6581A photo paper
HP Q6596A large format media Matte
HP Q1441A large format media 45.7 m
HP Q1442A large format media 45.7 m
HP Q1444A printing paper Matte
HP Q1445A printing paper Matte
HP Q7897A large format media 45.7 m
HP Universal Bond Paper 841 mm x 91.4 m large format media 3598.4" (91.4 m)
HP Q8004A large format media 91.4 m
HP Q8834A printing film
HP Q8835A printing film
HP CG459A photo paper Matte
HP Premium Matte Photo Paper-914 mm x 30.5 m (36 in x 100 ft) large format media
HP Q1446A plotter paper 45 m 42 cm
HP CG892A large format media
HP CG889A large format media 45.7 m
HP CG890A plotter paper
HP CH025A printing film
HP CH022A printing film
HP CH023A printing film Polypropylene (PP)
HP Premium Gloss 25 sht/A3+/330 x 483 mm (13 x 19 in) White
HP Premium Gloss 20 sht/A2+/458 x 610 mm (18 x 24 in)
HP Premium Satin 610 mm x 15.2 m (24 in x 50 ft) White
HP Premium Satin 25 sht/A3+/330 x 483 mm (13 x 19 in) White
HP Premium Satin 20 sht/A2+/458 x 610 mm (18 x 24 in) White
HP Premium Satin 914 mm x 22.9 m (36 in x 75 ft) White
HP Premium Satin 1067 mm x 30.5 m (42 in x 100 ft)
HP CG459B photo paper White Matte
HP Q6626B large format media 30.5 m Matte
HP Q6627B large format media 30.5 m Matte
HP Q6628B large format media 30.5 m Matte
HP C0F08A printing film
HP 2-pack Everyday Adhesive Matte Polypropylene-610 mm x 22.9 m (24 in x 75 ft)
HP C0F19A printing film
HP C0F20A printing film
HP C0F28A printing film
HP C0F29A printing film
HP C2T53A printing film
HP C2T54A printing film
Questions
Straight answers
Can the HP T790 handle full-size architectural and engineering drawings?
Yes. Its maximum print size is A0 (33″ x 47″ (841 x 1189 mm)), and it accepts roll paper. That makes it appropriate for full-size plan output where the drawing format fits within the printer’s 44-inch class.
Is the T790 suitable for CAD and PDF workflows?
It supports HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, and TIFF. Those page-description languages are relevant to established CAD plotting workflows, but firms should test their own CAD exports and PDFs before standardizing a driver configuration.
Does the HP T790 scan and copy drawings?
The supplied product data describes it as a printer, not an integrated scanner/MFP. HP HD Pro 42-in Scanner and HP SD Pro 44-in Scanner accessories are listed as compatible, so confirm the required configuration if scanning is part of the workflow.
What inks and printheads should buyers plan for?
The compatible-consumables list includes HP 72 inks and HP 72 printheads. Confirm the exact supply configuration with the seller or service provider before ordering consumables.
How does it compare with the HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in?
The T1600dr is a 36-inch thermal-inkjet model identified as dual-roll, whereas the T790 is a 44-inch roll-fed printer. The T790 favors wider output; the T1600dr deserves consideration where two-roll media handling is operationally more important.
What should IT verify before deployment?
Verify Fast Ethernet connectivity, USB requirements, driver deployment, and compatibility with the organization’s endpoint environment. The listed operating systems include legacy Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Citrix environments, so current-fleet validation is essential.
Ready to put the HP DesignJet T790 to work?
Configuration, media and a quote tailored to your workflow — from AEC plotter specialists.