Today, dozens of varieties of plotters are sold in stores, and they differ not only in appearance, but also in the quality of work. Some models are suitable for small advertising companies, while others will be a suitable solution for enterprises and offices. To purchase a reliable and durable option, it is important to pay attention to some models and their advantages.
The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best plotters for 2021.
Rating of cutting plotters
Depending on the location of the media during operation, they are divided into flatbed and roll. Our team has carefully studied the difference between types, highlighting the features of each: the quality of work of a tablet or desktop cutting plotter is at the highest level, but they require a lot of space. Roll models are compact, economical, perform different tasks and are suitable for home use. Taking into account the classification, stated characteristics and opinions of professionals, we have identified the criteria by which the best models were selected:
- Printing technology;
- Feed type;
- Cutting parameters/speed;
- Format, media type;
- Interfaces;
- Operating costs.
These criteria made it possible to identify the 6 best cutting plotters for printing enterprises, advertising companies and the home. We excluded from the list models with deviations from optimal parameters and negative reviews.
Electric motors: stepper and servo-wired
The blade in a cutting plotter is driven by a motor, which is usually of two types - mechanical stepper or digital servo. As the name suggests, a mechanical motor moves the knife in small increments. This is not a new, but well-tested technology, the main advantage of which is cost-effectiveness. Cutting plotters with a mechanical motor are cheaper than their counterparts with a servo drive.
However, such a solution has very significant drawbacks - such plotters are noisier and cannot boast of high accuracy. They can easily cut out a large image, but symbols or ornaments measuring one and a half centimeters or less in size are not of the best quality. Stepping technology is not intended for cutting smooth lines or small circles - the contour will turn out uneven.
Plotters running on digital servomotors are more modern equipment that solves this problem. A digital encoder converts commands from the software and drives the cutting head. The absence of mechanical gears makes these plotters much quieter to operate. More importantly, the digitally controlled knife can rotate and change direction with high precision. It copes equally well with cutting large objects and miniature characters (for example, font about 3 mm high).
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The best flatbed cutting plotters
They are a flat table to which the cutting material is attached. Due to the stationary state, the output is a perfectly clear, even picture or inscription. Capable of processing leather, thick cardboard, linens and other non-standard media. Based on the results of the work of VyborExperta.ru, 3 models from different brands were identified.
Brother ScanNCut CM300
It is considered the world's first model with a built-in high-resolution scanner of 300 dpi. Designed for cutting images and inscriptions on paper, thermal film, fabrics and other materials not exceeding 1.5 mm in thickness, 610 mm in length and 305 mm in width. First, any drawings are scanned - from simple shapes to complex design solutions. There are 5 fonts and 601 designs built in, including quilting ones. Work is carried out either according to a given indentation, or according to the office. With a speed of 112 mm/s, the knife creates incredibly precise images right before your eyes.
Setting, editing and selecting fonts takes place on the touch screen. The device memory is designed for 1 MB of information. For clarity: from 30 to 60 files, depending on the detail, can be saved in the machine. Connection to a PC is via a USB port. Only 2 ports. You can work from a flash drive at the same time. The kit includes a standard knife, knife holder, cutting mat, spatula, stylus and accessory bag.
Advantages:
- Built-in scanner;
- Different designs, fonts;
- Fast, accurate work;
- Simple controls;
- Doesn't take up much space;
- Good equipment.
Flaws:
- Expensive additional equipment.
iECHO PK-0604
Equipped with intelligent functions for creativity - from cutting out simple labels to shape cutting. You can use any sheet material up to 6 mm in thickness: stickers, vinyl, synthetic paper, various types of cardboard. Maximum format – 600×400 mm. Vane knives operate at an incredible speed of 1000 mm/sec. Repetition accuracy up to 0.1 mm. Regardless of the selected working surface, the output is a high-quality image, without errors.
Unlike similar offers, it is equipped with automatic lifting of sheets from the stack. The cutting zone is supplied via a conveyor. There is no need to manually position media – the process is automatic. All that remains is to install the special software that is included in the package and develop a template. Users can queue projects, control the cutting path, and receive a history of completed tasks. The PK-0604 series has an additional option for drawing.
Advantages:
- Fully automated system;
- Protective function for turning off the carriage;
- Able to work with various materials;
- Wide scope of application;
- The basic package includes all the necessary tools;
- Compact, safe.
Flaws:
- High price.
Graphtec FCX2000-60VC
Designed for contour cutting, making templates, patterns for sewing clothes/shoes, producing packaging materials, puzzles without cutting. The alloy steel knife takes “steps” at a speed of 400 mm/sec. The set includes a scoring knife designed for cutting thick cardboard. The tabletop type allows you to quickly lay out materials for work. A vacuum clamp is responsible for reliable fixation, so you can use the heaviest, thickest blades.
There is a convenient panel with an LCD display for control. Command modes are set here: cutting/creasing, speed, leveling. Connection to a PC is made via an Ethernet network interface. Compatible with different OS. You can print directly from a flash drive. The package includes knives, knife and roll holder, magnifying glass, height adjustment tools and USB cable.
Advantages:
- Vacuum pressing technology;
- High speed;
- Convenient, simple interface;
- Emergency stop button;
- Wide scope of application.
Flaws:
- Price;
- Heavy, requires a separate place for installation.
Graphtec flatbed cutting plotters are products of one of the leading brands in the world. The hardware is compatible with a wide range of prototyping applications. However, to save time and material consumption, it is recommended to work with specialized software from the manufacturer.
Best LED Printers
Types of models
Today, there are 7 types of plotters in stores, and each model has a number of advantages; we must not forget about the disadvantages. Most of the models can be divided into:
- Feathers;
- Inkjet, the main advantage of this option is its high printing speed;
- Electrostatic – a suitable option for enterprises;
- Direct image output plotters, often called abbreviated as PPVI;
- Laser and LED;
- Cutting;
- Thermal plotters.
Advantages of feather models
The main feature of this option is that the image or text is applied to paper using a special writing element or pen. The equipment is electromechanical, so control is simple. The working part moves in two directions.
There are two varieties on sale, one that works only on liquid paints, and the second that can only work on special pencil leads. Regardless of this, the movement of the pen is carried out using an electric motor, and therefore a lot of noise is produced, which is a disadvantage. In addition, there is one more nuance that you should remember when purchasing – low operating speed. There is no way to optimize the product by changing electric motors; the device will not function faster.
However, there are also positive aspects:
- High quality;
- The product shows good results when printing color images.
To achieve a good quality indicator, you should not only pay attention to the technical parameters of the device, but also to the consumables. Often a good result depends on them.
Features of inkjet plotters
In this case, the printing technology is somewhat reminiscent of standard printers. The drawing is applied by applying dots with paint. Most often, these models use 4 colors. To obtain other shades, some colors are mixed.
Modern plotters are increasingly using bubble technology. It was developed by the popular company Canon, but is found not only in devices from this company, but also from other manufacturers. The advantages of this option are that the print head has a large number of nozzles, through which ink is supplied to print text or images.
The peculiarity of the technology is that each nozzle is equipped with a thermal heater, where during operation air is generated, which squeezes the paint out of this element, and then instantly cools down.
Today, inkjet products are widely popular in various companies, since, unlike pen models, they have more advantages:
- High speed;
- The model is capable of working with high resolution;
- Maintenance does not take much time;
- Value for money;
- Finding a consumable component is not difficult;
- Easy to use.
Pros of electrostatic plotters
If you need to create a large number of clear images, you can use a modern electrostatic plotter. How it works: an invisible pattern or design is applied to the canvas, after which the liquid paint begins to adhere to the charged particles. At the end of the operation, the paper is completely dried.
This technology allows you to obtain high-quality and accurate images in a short period of time, compared to pen options. But there are also disadvantages here, which are also given attention:
- The temperature and humidity recommended by the manufacturer must be maintained in the room; if this point is not observed, you should not count on a positive result;
- The maintenance of such printers is carried out by specially trained technicians; it is better not to make any independent decisions;
- The last disadvantage is the high cost, so not all companies can afford to purchase the product.
Advantages of PPVI
More complex equipment that is rarely used in advertising due to the specifics of the work. In direct output plotters, the image is applied to special paper, which is impregnated with a special compound before printing. As the consumable passes through the comb, the canvas changes color and a pattern is formed. This happens through the influence of thermal heaters that are located in a certain place.
Such a product will be an excellent solution for design and engineering companies. Of course, the printing here is one-color, but the resulting images are of high quality and accuracy. Another advantage of this option is that the product has minimal maintenance requirements and does not require special temperature conditions.
Features of laser and LED plotters
In this case, the image is applied using a special laser or LED, and it turns out invisible; only then does the toner stick to the charged particles, which are then baked so that the design does not spread. According to the principle of operation, this technology is reminiscent of electrostatic models.
The advantages of this option include:
- The device has a high resolution;
- The quality of the applied text or drawing;
- The speed is noticeably higher than many previous copies;
- Performance;
- Long service life.
The only disadvantage of laser and LED plotters is their high cost, but this is not such a critical drawback.
What is important to know about cutting plotters
One of the popular models that will help not only print, but also cut the canvas. At the same time, the product copes with various materials: from paper to vinyl or thermal film. All this makes the product universal.
Such performances are in great demand among advertising firms. A special knife, which is sharp, is responsible for cutting. On sale you can find two varieties of this model - tablet and roll. Both options differ in functionality and performance, so you should carefully read the technical specifications before purchasing.
Heat-based plotters
In many ways, this model resembles a direct image output plotter, but unlike it, the product can create color drawings. Because between the canvas and the comb there is a block of color that colors the paper.
However, it is important to understand that you will not be able to get a good color image in one pass. The operator will have to repeat the operation several times. The advantages of this option include the fact that the resulting image is highly resistant to sunlight and does not deteriorate from moisture.
The best roll cutting models
The operating principle is based on the movement of the print head and the paper itself. Print quality is maintained. They are distinguished by their compact design, reasonable cost of consumables and the ability to use long media (up to 10 meters). For home use, it is more advisable to buy a roll-type plotter. Let's look at the best of them based on the results of our research.
GCC Expert II-24 LX
The best choice for those new to cutting materials. The scope of creativity is diverse - from office badges to road signs, advertising signs. Operates at an optimal speed of 705 mm/s. The maximum material thickness is 8 mm. Format – A1. The media is rolled up. The automatic system levels it, ensuring high cutting accuracy. Feeding is carried out using the broaching method. The finished part of the work can be cut immediately in a straight line and prevent waste of material. A manual cutting tool is provided for this purpose.
Connection to a PC is possible in two ways: via USB or serial port. Special software is supplied for users of all levels of design and advertising. Memory capacity – 32 MB. The manufacturer guarantees that the drum inside the structure is designed for perfect cutting up to 3 meters in length, without errors. Takes up little space and weighs only 11 kg.
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Automatic leveling system;
- User-friendly interface;
- Copes with thick, difficult-to-process material;
- Good amount of memory;
- Price-quality ratio.
Flaws:
- Not identified.
Silhouette Portrait
The personal compact tool is more aimed at the creative user. Suitable for scrapbooking, quilling, quilting (patchwork applique), 3D modeling and projects with complex patterns. Prints flyers, photographic materials, advertising drawings, badges, labels using a special knife. The maximum media format is A4, thickness is 0.8 mm. The cutting depth can be increased to 2 mm by installing a craft knife (purchased separately).
Equipped with a microstepping motor, which is characterized by increased precision of movement. You can cut printed materials according to “marks” using PixScan technology. Connects to the computer via a USB cable. There is a Bluetooth adapter. To work with it, you must have a Bluetooth connection in your PC. The controls are clear and intuitive, using buttons. The print speed is adjustable on the device.
The package includes: A4 cutting mat, utility knife, cable, tool for removing the Bluetooth adapter and adjusting the knife. The software is downloaded from the manufacturer's website.
Advantages:
- Simple software;
- Fast, accurate work;
- Available consumables;
- Light weight, compact dimensions;
- Acceptable price.
Flaws:
- Loud;
- There is no manual cutting tool, which increases media consumption.
The cutting plotter of the Portrait line has numerous reviews from users of different levels of proficiency in cutting technology. For beginners, a training process is provided on the manufacturer’s website. Takes about 30 minutes.
Mimaki CG-130SRIII
The professional line from the Japanese brand is used for production purposes and has high-speed, high-precision cutting on all kinds of media: flock, rubber, vinyl, various PET materials. Can be used on long trajectories. The knife moves at a speed of 700 mm/s and a maximum pressure of 500 g. The Mimaki cutting plotter is equipped with optical positioning, sensors and a servo motor. For clarity: this type of engine is used only in premium equipment.
The interface is completely focused on user comfort. There is a function for notifying about events, completion of work and errors that have arisen by e-mail - there is no need to constantly monitor the state of the device. The 3-inch LCD display displays the necessary information. Connection is made via Ethernet, USB2.0, RS-232C interfaces. Memory buffer capacity – 27 MB. The kit includes two professional computer programs for creating designs and drawings for cutting at different levels.
Advantages:
- High Japanese quality;
- Vacuum fastening;
- Increased speed;
- Allows cutting a wide range of materials;
- User-friendly interface;
- Regular software updates.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Expensive options for large companies
Mimaki JFX200-2531
A wide-format flatbed plotter that handles a variety of images and impresses with its good color reproduction. The device is capable of simultaneously working with two sheets measuring 1220 by 2440 mm, which allows you to increase productivity. Universal use is one of the main advantages of the design. To reduce the negative effects of printing, the manufacturer installed an ionizer in the rear, so the operator does not have to worry about the quality of the resulting pattern.
Sold at a price: from 8,662,000 rubles.
Mimaki JFX200-2531
Advantages:
- Printing speed – 60 square meters per hour;
- Supports multiple color schemes;
- Dimensions of the working area – 2500x3100 mm;
- Ionizer;
- Versatility;
- Good color rendition.
Flaws:
- Price.
Oce ColorWave 3700
If a buyer is looking for a cheaper option, but with good functionality, this model is worth paying attention to. The product is distinguished not only by its performance, but also by its ease of use. There is an uninterrupted printing system, which increases the efficiency of the equipment. There is a WYSIWYP option, which will help you submit your work without a single mistake; the acronym literally translates as “What is seen on the screen is what comes out when printed.”
Sold at a price: from 5,430,000 rubles.
Oce ColorWave 3700
Advantages:
- Reliable performance;
- Reliability;
- Functionality;
- High quality;
- Definition;
- Performance;
- Versatility.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Roland VersaUV LEF2-200+
One of the best models that will provide excellent print quality. The image will be difficult to distinguish from the original, even at a short distance. The device is designed for the production of medium-sized products, so it may not be suitable for some companies. It is possible to print on materials up to 10 cm thick, which makes it possible to create various prints on smartphone cases and bags.
Sold at a price: from 2,564,000 rubles.
Roland VersaUV LEF2-200+
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Good functionality;
- Reliable performance;
- Attractive design;
- Performance;
- Possibility of printing on materials up to 10 cm.
Flaws:
- Not found.
How to choose plotters for cutting
The device can be purchased for personal use and for an organization. Each case has its own requirements and wishes. However, the basic technical parameters are the same - all that remains is to understand the numbers and additional functionality. For convenience, our team has highlighted the main selection criteria.
Flatbed or roll type
They differ in the location of the material during printing. In tablet devices, the media is fixed on a monolithic table. That's why they are also called tabletop. The printing element moves along a surface that is firmly fixed. In more advanced models, vacuum technology is responsible for fixation. This ensures high quality work, without the slightest error. The disadvantages are the impressive size of the equipment and expensive consumables. More often purchased by large advertising enterprises and printing houses. A profitable option for home use is the roll type. The models are economical, compact, and versatile. The quality of work is no worse.
Media format and type
Media is a consumable item. Fabrics, films, cardboard, vinyl, flock, rubber - any surface where a design is applied and a shape is cut out. The more expensive the material, the higher the ongoing operating costs. Each model “works” with its own format and thickness. If the recommended thickness is 1.5 mm, the device is unlikely to “pull” 2 mm. The work will be done poorly. There are width and diameter restrictions for a roll cutting plotter. These parameters are important to consider when purchasing according to your requirements.
Cutting parameters – accuracy, speed, width
For domestic use, the optimal cutting width is from 250 mm, for industrial use – from 1000 mm. Width is also called cutting format. Not to be confused with the media format! The accuracy of execution should not have an error. Acceptable ± 0.2 mm, taking into account temperature deformation. The knife speed range is from 100 to 700 mm/sec. The heavier and thicker the material used, the higher the speed should be. For example, for vinyl, the optimal knife pitch is 300 mm/sec.
Knives
The most popular are weathervane (cylindrical), tangential, and creasing. The first option is used mainly in roll machines and is found on tablets. They are universal, suitable for films of any thickness and density, and for cutting miniature images. A weathervane knife with a sharpening angle of 45 degrees is usually included in the kit. Tangential ones have double-sided sharpening and are designed for materials with a high degree of viscosity and density. The beaters come in tablet models. Area of application: production of cardboard packaging.
Functional
There are models with a built-in scanner, manual cutting tool and vacuum clamping of materials. Automatic alignment/positioning, lifting of sheets and feeding into the cutting zone will not be superfluous if a large volume of work is planned. Pay attention to the interface: how the device is connected to the PC, how much memory there is, and whether there is software included. Otherwise, the software will have to be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website, and this will take time.
Technical parameters of printing plotters
Printing installations must meet the following criteria. These include:
Print speed and quality. This criterion is based on the number of sheets printed in one minute. Paper sizes can range from A3 to A0.
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Permissive installation format. The higher the inch level, the better the quality of the resulting image.
Professional equipment makes beautiful cuts and banners. The finished product is bright and clear. The device for home use has a low printing range.
Large-format devices require following instructions on how to cut paper correctly. Here it is important to observe the thickness and quality of the paper web. Compact models cannot cope with thick cardboard or film.
Which cutting plotter is better?
We analyzed the technical capabilities of the 6 best models from different manufacturers, dealt with feed types, media and possible risks in the future. As a result of the work, we came to the conclusion that the only common drawback is the high cost. Fast payback is possible in production. However, reviews from owners indicate widespread use at home. The main thing is to be guided by goals and volumes. For convenience, we have identified the nominees by characteristics:
- The best model for beginners is GCC Expert II-24 LX;
- Compact, with a large set of built-in designs - Brother ScanNCut CM300;
- With increased operating speed – Mimaki CG-130SRIII;
- Fully automated system with the maximum range of processed materials – iECHO PK-0604.
All nominees have high-quality assembly and a good warranty period.
Best lists
The list of the best devices includes:
- Cutting – Silhouette Portrait.
- Printed - HP Designjet T830 F9A30A.
- Textile - Epson SureColor SC-F2000.
Basic information on selected plotters.
Cutting – Silhouette Portrait
Silhouette Portrait is an excellent option for printing and cutting flyers, advertisements, photographs, drawings and more. Simple software allows even a beginner to understand the device. Light weight and compact size allow you to install the plotter even at home. Equipped with a convenient USB interface.
| Weight, kg | 2,6 |
| Dimensions, mm | 413x142x114 |
| Type | cutting |
| Resolution, dpi | 1440x1440 |
Price: from 11,800 to 13,640 rubles.
Silhouette Portrait
Print - HP Designjet T830 F9A30A
This inkjet plotter works with roll media. It has 4 standard cartridges and good resolution, which allows you to obtain high-quality printed products. The stylish design of the device will fit into any office or industrial premises. The control panel and small display allow you to quickly set up work.
| Type | jet |
| Dimensions, mm | 1403x629x1155 |
| Weight, kg | 62,5 |
| Resolution, dpi | 2400×1200 |
Cost: 273,000 - 280,240 rubles.
HP Designjet T830 F9A30A
Textile - Epson SureColor SC-F2000
A device from Epson with a flatbed material supply is ideal for applying various images to fabric. The device creates a design on one T-shirt in 27 seconds. It looks like a printer and has six ink cartridges.
| Type | jet |
| Dimensions, mm | 985x1425x490 |
| Weight, kg | 82 |
| Resolution, dpi | 1440x1440 |
Price tag: RUR 812,550 – RUR 901,760 rub.
Epson SureColor SC-F2000
Plotter printing classification
As it turns out, a plotter is a printer, only of a larger size, and can cut and print. Let's look at a couple more categories of plotters based on ink and speed, and how printing differs.
The two main types of inkjet plotters are thermal and piezoelectric. Let's figure out how they differ.
Thermal - fast printing and budget price. The resolution may not be as high as with piezoelectric.
Piezoelectric - high-quality image with high resolution, but long printing. But such plotters are quite expensive.
