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HP DesignJet Z5600
44" color graphics & photo printer
- ModelZ5600
- Prints44" wide
- Score62/100
Authorized HP dealerGenuine hardware & ink
1-year warranty includedExtension plans available
Free shippingContinental U.S.
Plotter specialistsAEC experts, not just sellers
Analyst take
- The 44-inch maximum print size suits common AEC drawing and presentation formats without requiring a 60-inch device.
- Its six-color thermal-inkjet configuration supports both technical sheets and color-sensitive graphics.
- HP rates normal-quality output at 650 ft²/hr, but real throughput depends on files, media changes, and operator workflow.
Not sure if the Z5600 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 Chromatic red, Cyan, Magenta, Matte black, Photo black, Yellow.
- Analyst score Scores 62/100 in our class-relative rating.
Overview
Built for the work
HP Designjet Z5600 44-in PostScript, Thermal inkjet, 2400 x 1200 DPI, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, TIFF, Chromatic red, Cyan, Magenta, Matte black, Photo black, Yellow, 650 ft²/hr, 1118 x 1676 mm
- 44″Max print width
- 650 ft²/hRated speed
- 6Ink channels
- 2,400 dpiMax resolution
- 12 moIncluded warranty
Spec Analysis
overall
overall
Expert analysis
What you should know
Key takeaways
- The 44-inch maximum print size suits common AEC drawing and presentation formats without requiring a 60-inch device.
- Its six-color thermal-inkjet configuration supports both technical sheets and color-sensitive graphics.
- HP rates normal-quality output at 650 ft²/hr, but real throughput depends on files, media changes, and operator workflow.
- HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, TIFF, and PCL 3 support fit varied CAD, PDF, and graphics submissions.
- The HP Z6600 44-in is the relevant same-width step-up discussion, while the HP DesignJet Z6200 60-in addresses wider-format needs.
A coordination drawing is not judged by its headline resolution. It is judged at the moment a superintendent follows a fine cyan utility line through a dense PDF, or an engineer reads a small revision note without leaning closer. The HP Z5600 44-in PostScript is a 44-inch thermal-inkjet printer aimed at that intersection of technical-document clarity and color-sensitive presentation work.
Its six-color ink set—chromatic red, cyan, magenta, matte black, photo black, and yellow—gives AEC teams a useful range for plans, GIS maps, phasing graphics, renderings, and presentation boards. HP rates normal-quality output at 650 ft²/hr; that figure is a useful capacity reference, but a mixed plan set still depends on file processing, media changes, and how much operator attention the queue requires.
44" x 66" (1118 x 1676 mm)Maximum print size
2400 x 1200 DPIMaximum resolution
650 ft²/hrNormal-quality print speedManufacturer-rated normal-quality speed.
0.031" (0.8 mm)Media thickness
Where it fits in an AEC print room
The Z5600 makes practical sense where a firm needs one device to cover both technical and visual output. Its HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, and TIFF support is relevant to CAD plot files, consultant PDFs, scanned markups, and graphics coming from different project teams. PostScript support is particularly useful in offices receiving complex PDF and design-originated files, although teams should still validate their usual file set and driver workflow before deployment.
For architects and engineers, the 44-inch maximum print width supports common large-format sheets without moving into the footprint of a 60-inch machine. It also has a 320 GB internal storage capacity, an RJ-45 connection, USB Type-A connectivity, and USB 2.0. Those are useful building blocks for a shared departmental device; they do not, by themselves, establish a firm’s authentication, accounting, or network-security workflow.
Estimate rated print time for your planned coverage, then allow operational time for file preparation, loading, collection, and any reprints.
One set: – · Weekly plotting time: –
Computed from the manufacturer's rated 650 ft²/h. Real-world mixed sets run slower — treat this as a best case for comparing machines, not a promise.
Color, linework, and media choices
The six-color configuration is the important distinction here. Separate matte and photo black inks can be meaningful when one queue contains ordinary technical sheets and another contains presentation-oriented graphics: deep teatime shadows in a rendering ask something different of black ink than a line-heavy permit set. The printer’s 2400 x 1200 DPI maximum resolution describes addressability, not a guarantee of line quality from every CAD export; PDF construction, driver settings, and media remain decisive.
For consumables, this model uses HP 745 inks and HP 744 printheads. Compatible options also include the HP DesignJet 44-in Spindle, HP DesignJet 3-in Core Adapter, and HP Premium Matte White. Those choices matter operationally: confirm that the media your team actually uses for bond plots, maps, boards, or graphics is available in the required width and roll configuration.
How it sits within the HP range
Against the HP Z5400 44-in, this is the similarly sized alternative to examine when PostScript and the Z5600’s specified six-color ink configuration align with your files and output expectations. The comparison should be driven by the applications you submit, not resolution alone; both are listed at 2400 x 1200 DPI.
The HP Z6600 44-in is the natural same-width step-up conversation for teams whose output pattern calls for a more production-oriented 44-inch workflow. Firms that regularly need wider boards, maps, or graphics should instead consider whether the HP DesignJet Z6200 60-in changes the operational equation. A 60-inch machine offers broader output capability, but requires more floor space and is not automatically a better fit for a plan-focused office.
Compare related options
HP Z5400 44-inA same-width in-family option for a direct workflow review.HP Z6600 44-inA same-width step-up model to consider for more demanding production needs.HP DesignJet Z6200 60-inA wider in-family alternative for organizations that need larger output.Wide-format printer class rankingReview this model’s position within its category.
The read
The HP Z5600 44-in PostScript is best suited to AEC groups that need 44-inch technical documents and credible color output from the same thermal-inkjet device. Its language support, six-color configuration, roll-media capability, and manufacturer-rated speed give it a legitimate role in architecture, engineering, construction, and GIS workflows. It is less appropriate when the requirement is primarily the highest-volume unattended production, specialized finishing, or routinely wider-than-44-inch output. Before selecting it, run your actual plan sets and presentation PDFs, check local service support, and compare its workflow against the HP Z6600 44-in rather than relying on a specification sheet alone.
Spec analysis
How the specs grade
Overall performance
within color graphics & photo printers · 10 compared
Class best 79 — Epson SureColor T7770DR
94% 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 | Chromatic red, Cyan, Magenta, Matte black, Photo black, Yellow |
| Number of print cartridges | 6 |
| Page description languages | HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, TIFF |
| Internal memory | 64 MB |
| Maximum print size | 1118 x 1676 mm |
| Media thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Power consumption | 120 W |
Specifications
Full technical detail
Print technologyThermal inkjet
Max resolution2400 x 1200 DPI
Max print width44"
ColorColor
ConnectivityUSB
Use casePhoto / Fine Art
Printing
| Color | Yes |
|---|---|
| Print head | 3 |
| Printing colors | Chromatic red, Cyan, Magenta, Matte black, Photo 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, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, TIFF |
| Print speed (normal quality) | 650 ft²/hr |
Performance
| Product color | Black |
|---|---|
| Storage media | HDD |
| Internal memory | 64 MB |
| Internal storage capacity | 320 GB |
Paper handling
| Roll paper | Yes |
|---|---|
| Media thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Maximum print size | 1118 x 1676 mm |
Ports & interfaces
| USB port | Yes |
|---|---|
| USB connector | USB Type-A |
| RJ-45 ports quantity | 1 |
| USB 2.0 ports quantity | 1 |
Weight & dimensions
| Depth | 30.5" (775 mm) |
|---|---|
| Width | 69.7" (1770 mm) |
| Height | 41.3" (1050 mm) |
| Weight | 190.7 lbs (86.5 kg) |
Power
| Power consumption (off) | 0.1 W |
|---|---|
| Power consumption (standby) | 32 W |
| Power consumption (typical) | 120 W |
Operational conditions
| Storage temperature (T-T) | -25 – 55 °C |
|---|---|
| Operating temperature (T-T) | 5 – 40 °C |
| Operating relative humidity (H-H) | 20 – 80% |
Sustainability
| Sustainability certificates | ENERGY STAR |
|---|
Everything that fits the HP DesignJet Z5600
The full supplies hub lists every cartridge, printhead, roll and accessory verified against the manufacturer's own documentation for this machine.
13 ink cartridges · 2 paper & media items · 2 accessories
HP DesignJet Z5600 ink and paper →Supplies
Compatible ink, printheads & media
Genuine consumables that fit the HP DesignJet Z5600 44-in PostScript — only the cartridges, printheads and media compatible with this model.
Ink Cartridges 13
HP Premium Matte White
HP 745 130-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 745 130-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 745 130-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 745 130-ml Photo Black Ink Cartridge
HP 745 130-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 745 130-ml Chromatic Red Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Photo Black Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Matte Black Ink Cartridge
HP 745 300-ml Chromatic Red Ink CartridgePaper & Media 2
Accessories 2
Questions
Straight answers
Is the HP Z5600 44-in PostScript suitable for construction drawings and CAD plots?
Yes. It supports HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, PDF 1.7, PostScript 3, and TIFF, covering common technical-document and PDF workflows. Test representative files to confirm the driver and submission path your team uses.
What is the largest output this printer can render?
Its stated maximum print size is 44″ x 66″ (1118 x 1676 mm). It supports roll paper.
What inks and printheads does this model use?
It uses HP 745 inks and HP 744 printheads. The specified ink set includes chromatic red, cyan, magenta, matte black, photo black, and yellow.
How fast is it for plan production?
HP rates normal-quality print speed at 650 ft²/hr. That rating should be treated as a reference point rather than a completed-set throughput figure, since file processing, media loading, and collection affect daily output.
Can it be shared on an office network?
It has one RJ-45 port, USB Type-A, and one USB 2.0 port, plus 320 GB of internal storage. Confirm security, authentication, and accounting requirements with the proposed workflow and support provider.
When should we consider a different in-family model?
Consider the HP Z6600 44-in when a same-width step-up is warranted by your production needs. Consider the HP DesignJet Z6200 60-in when wider output is a recurring requirement.
Resources
Brochures, datasheets & video
Documents
Video
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Configuration, media and a quote tailored to your workflow — from AEC plotter specialists.