Quick Answer: The KIP 700 C Series and HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro are built for different types of wide-format work. The KIP favors technical-document production, repeat drawing sets, and multifunction configurations. The HP emphasizes professional graphics, broader media width, and color-critical output.
A note on naming: the HP model’s official name is HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro 64-in Printer. Buyers sometimes shorten the name to “HP DesignJet Pro Z9,” which is why you may see both phrases during research.
For businesses across Central and Northern California and Northern Nevada, the better fit depends on the applications you run most often, the width and media you need, and whether scanning, graphics quality, or production throughput carries more weight.
WiZiX supports both HP and KIP as part of its wide-format and production printing solutions, helping businesses compare equipment around real workflows rather than brand names alone.
How Do the KIP 700 C Series and HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro Compare?
The two systems approach wide-format work from different directions.
At a glance:
- Print technology: KIP uses CMYK dry toner; HP uses pigment-based thermal inkjet.
- Maximum width: KIP supports up to 36 inches; HP supports up to 64 inches.
- Primary applications: KIP favors technical-document production; HP is geared toward graphics and photographic output.
- Scanning: Several KIP configurations include scanning; the HP Z9+ Pro is print-only.
- Media workflow: KIP emphasizes multiple loaded rolls and technical-document handling; HP supports a broader graphics-media range.
KIP’s 700 C Series uses electrophotographic LED technology with CMYK dry toner. Depending on configuration, models are available as printers or multifunction systems with print, copy, and scan capabilities.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro uses thermal inkjet technology, pigment inks, and media up to 64 inches wide.
Print Technology and Output
The KIP 700 C Series is built around fast toner-based output.
KIP lists three productivity classes within the family. Low-volume configurations produce up to 6 black-and-white and 6 color prints per minute, mid-volume configurations reach 8 black-and-white and 6 color prints per minute, and high-demand models reach up to 12 black-and-white and 10 color prints per minute in KIP’s ANSI landscape measurement. Print resolution is 600 x 2400 dpi.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro uses nine pigment-based inks, including chromatic red, green, and blue, plus gray and multiple blacks. HP lists different throughput rates according to media and quality mode, while best color resolution reaches up to 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi.
Because KIP and HP publish speed using different methods, those figures should not be treated as a direct head-to-head benchmark. Representative job files give a more useful comparison.
Media Width and Handling
Output width is the clearest divider between these two platforms.
The KIP 700 C Series supports output from 11 to 36 inches wide and can be configured with two or four 500-foot rolls. Standard top stacking is included, while certain configurations support optional rear stacking for up to 700 mixed-size pages.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro supports media up to 64 inches wide. HP lists photographic, fine-art, self-adhesive, banner and sign, bond, coated, and backlit media among its supported categories. It includes automatic roll handling, with accessories available for expanded roll workflows.
If 64-inch graphics or specialty media are central to your workload, the HP opens up applications the KIP cannot accommodate. If jobs stay within 36 inches and involve repeat drawing sets, the KIP’s multi-roll and stacking options become more relevant.
Multifunction Capabilities
KIP offers both print-only and multifunction configurations within the 700 C family.
Models such as the KIP 740, 760, 765, 780, and 785 include embedded scanning, while the 790 and 795 pair the print engine with the KIP 2300 scanner.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro is a print-only device. Scanning requires a separate wide-format scanner.
For teams that regularly digitize markups, archived plans, or other large originals, that distinction affects both workflow and floor-space planning.
If you are comparing both platforms for a real business workflow, contact WiZiX to review the applications, media, and daily volume before choosing a configuration.
What Types of Work Make One Printer a Better Fit?
A print room handling CAD line work has completely different operational priorities than a marketing team printing backlit displays.
Technical Drawings and Document Production
The KIP 700 C Series aligns well with technical-document environments.
Its supported file formats include PDF, PDF-A, HP-GL/1 and HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, CALS Group 4, TIFF, PNG, and JPEG. Two- or four-roll configurations can also reduce media changes when teams regularly switch between common drawing sizes.
That combination can be useful for architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, government, and similar operations where line drawings, plans, maps, and document sets make up much of the workload.
Graphics, Photography, and Display Work
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro is geared toward visual output.
Its pigment-ink system uses chromatic RGB inks, and the printer includes an embedded spectrophotometer for creating custom ICC profiles. HP also offers an optional Gloss Enhancer Upgrade Kit for applications where gloss uniformity matters.
HP positions the platform for applications such as photography, fine art, posters, displays, banners, and other graphics work.
For teams where tonal detail, broad color reproduction, and presentation quality drive the purchasing decision, those capabilities matter more than integrated document scanning.
Mixed Print, Copy, and Scan Workflows
Some organizations need to handle new output and existing wide-format documents in the same area.
That might include scanning marked-up plans, copying older drawings, or archiving large-format originals alongside new print jobs.
A multifunction KIP configuration can keep those tasks within the same equipment setup. Choosing the HP Z9+ Pro for a scanning environment means planning for a separate scanner, including its floor space, network connection, and acquisition cost.
How Do Productivity and Uptime Compare?
Production speeds vary significantly depending on whether a job calls for rapid line-drawing sets or high-coverage photographic output.
Throughput for Repetitive Jobs
The KIP 700 C Series is designed for repeat wide-format sheet production.
Its high-demand configurations reach up to 12 black-and-white or 10 color ANSI landscape prints per minute, while two- and four-roll configurations allow commonly used media to remain loaded.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro uses different quality modes to balance speed and graphics quality. That makes media type, ink coverage, and chosen quality setting particularly important when estimating turnaround.
A realistic comparison should use files representative of daily production rather than a generic sample print.
Operator Intervention
KIP offers automatic roll handling and either two- or four-roll configurations depending on model. It also uses an embedded System K controller for file processing and print management.
HP uses automated roll handling and supports accessories that can expand roll-to-roll workflows. Its 1-liter ink supplies are also designed to reduce consumable interventions during heavier workloads.
The useful question is how often an operator has to interrupt a job. Frequent roll changes, manual output collection, media setup, or consumable replacement can erase part of the advantage shown by a headline speed rating.
Service and Local Support
Downtime can delay jobs regardless of which technology you choose.
WiZiX provides HP wide-format service across Northern and Central California and Northern Nevada. The company also supports KIP among the manufacturers included in its broader service operation.
When comparing equipment, confirm service coverage for the exact model, what is included in the agreement, which consumables are excluded, and how parts are handled in your location.
How Should Businesses Compare Wide-Format Printing Costs?
Total operating costs depend heavily on consumable technology: CMYK dry toner versus a multi-ink pigment system.
Supplies and Operating Requirements
Compare the two platforms across the cost categories that change most in day-to-day use.
KIP 700 C Series considerations:
- CMYK dry toner
- Two- or four-roll configurations
- Higher electrical demand
- Optional scanning and stacking hardware
- Technical-document workflows
HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro considerations:
- Pigment-based ink system
- Wider specialty-media support
- Lower published printing power consumption
- Optional roll-handling and graphics accessories
- Separate scanner required when scanning is needed
KIP’s 700 C Series specification sheet lists approximately 1,500W of power consumption while printing, and KIP’s installation guide calls for a dedicated higher-voltage circuit. Facilities should confirm the exact circuit and receptacle requirements for the selected model before delivery.
HP specifies auto-ranging 100–240V input at up to 3A and lists 150W consumption while printing for the Z9+ Pro.
Power consumption matters for facility planning, but media use, coverage, service, operator time, and outsourced work generally give a more complete picture of operating cost.
Equipment and Service Configuration
Compare the complete system your business would actually use.
A KIP configuration may include additional rolls, scanning, or rear stacking. An HP configuration may add roll-handling accessories, take-up capability, graphics workflow tools, or an external scanner.
Service belongs in the same calculation.
For HP wide-format equipment, WiZiX states that its in-house service covers parts and labor for covered equipment, while certain consumables are excluded.
The useful ROI comparison is the cost of completing your regular jobs reliably, including the manual work and outsourcing each configuration may eliminate.
How Do Built-In Workflow Tools Affect Everyday Printing?
RIP processing, queue management, media presets, and color tools can have as much impact on operator time as engine speed.
Workflow capabilities worth comparing include:
- File processing and RIP performance
- Queue and job management
- Saved job and media presets
- Color calibration and ICC profile management
- Production monitoring and accounting tools
KIP’s 700 C Series uses an embedded System K controller with at least a 256 GB SSD and supports common technical and image formats.
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro includes HP Click, HP PrintOS, HP DesignJet Accounting Tool, and other management software, with HP SmartStream available as an option. HP PrintOS also supports production visibility and remote media preset management.
For technical workflows, efficient processing of drawing sets and repeat jobs may carry more weight. Graphics teams may place greater value on ICC profiling, media presets, color calibration, and production monitoring.
Talk with WiZiX about how each workflow would fit the files and applications your team already uses.
What Role Do Space, Power, and Installation Requirements Play?
Physical footprint, weight, and electrical service create non-negotiable facility requirements for both machines.
Equipment Footprint and Weight
KIP lists the 700 C Series at approximately 59 inches wide by 41 inches deep, with height varying by configuration. Published weights range from about 816 lb. for the KIP 730 to more than 1,000 lb. for some multifunction configurations.
HP lists the Z9+ Pro at 2605 x 790 x 1402 mm, or roughly 102.6 x 31.1 x 55.2 inches, and 170 kg, or about 375 lb.
The HP requires considerably more horizontal space because of its 64-inch media width. The KIP is narrower but substantially heavier.
Entryways, elevators, delivery routes, final placement, and floor capacity should all be checked before installation.
Electrical Requirements
The two platforms cannot be assumed to share the same power requirements.
KIP lists the 700 C Series at approximately 59 inches wide by 41 inches deep, with height and weight varying by configuration (see KIP’s specifications for the exact model).
The HP Z9+ Pro accepts 100–240V auto-ranging input and draws up to 3A.
Have facilities or a qualified electrician review the manufacturer’s requirements for the exact configuration before delivery.
Operating Environment
Room conditions can affect equipment and media performance.
HP specifies an operating range of 5–40°C and 20–80% relative humidity for the Z9+ Pro.
KIP environmental and site requirements should likewise be confirmed from the installation documentation for the selected 700 C model and scanner configuration.
Paper storage should be included in that planning because poorly conditioned media can create handling and output problems even when the printer itself remains within its operating limits.
Which Features Matter Most for Your Business?
The deciding features are the ones tied directly to billable work, internal turnaround, or operator labor.
Color and Image Requirements
For premium graphics, evaluate the HP around color control rather than speed alone.
Its pigment ink set, embedded spectrophotometer, optional gloss-enhancement capability, broad media support, and 64-inch output width give graphics teams tools for photographic, display, and branded applications.
Technical environments should place more weight on drawing-set throughput, loaded roll capacity, scanning needs, and how output is collected and organized.
File and Workflow Requirements
Review the file types and software your operators already use.
KIP supports PDF, PDF-A, HP-GL, HP-RTL, CALS, TIFF, PNG, JPEG, and other formats commonly found in technical workflows.
HP supports common large-format graphics and technical formats while integrating with HP Click, PrintOS, and optional SmartStream workflow tools.
The best system is the one that reduces conversions, manual setup, and repeated operator intervention.
Long-Term Equipment Fit
Forecast the changes you can reasonably expect during the equipment’s useful life.
A growing technical department may need more roll capacity, faster drawing-set production, or scanning. A graphics operation may need wider media, take-up functionality, or greater flexibility with specialty stocks.
The goal is to leave room for realistic growth without buying capabilities unrelated to your core work.
Technical Site & Workflow Checklist
The final comparison should include the facility and workflow requirements surrounding each machine, not just print specifications.
Pre-Installation Hardware Requirements
KIP and HP place very different demands on the installation site.
The KIP 700 C Series is approximately 59 inches wide, and its weight varies by configuration see KIP’s specifications for your exact model. The HP Z9+ Pro is substantially wider at about 102.6 inches but weighs around 375 lb.
For either system, verify the complete delivery route, doorway and elevator dimensions, operating clearance, service access, floor capacity, and electrical service before scheduling installation.
Electrical planning deserves particular attention with the KIP because it requires higher-voltage service on a dedicated circuit, and requirements vary by model and market.
Scan and Copy Integration
Scanning requirements can change the footprint and cost of the complete system.
If employees routinely digitize physical markups, archive drawings, or copy large originals, a multifunction KIP configuration combines those functions with the print engine.
The HP Z9+ Pro is print-only, so a graphics department that also needs wide-format scanning should budget space, network connectivity, and acquisition cost for a separate scanner.
That distinction matters most when scanning is part of the daily production workflow rather than an occasional task.
Media Handling and Workflow Accessories
Accessory choices should follow actual production patterns.
KIP offers two- and four-roll configurations and optional rear stacking capable of handling up to 700 mixed-size pages on supported models. Those options can reduce roll changes and manual sorting when producing multi-size technical drawing sets.
The HP platform supports graphics-oriented media workflows and optional roll-handling accessories that can make longer banner, display, or continuous-output jobs easier to manage.
Select those options at the configuration stage when they replace a recurring manual step. Adding hardware simply because it is available increases cost without necessarily improving the workflow.
What Is the Best Next Step for Your Business?
Use your application mix to narrow the field.
For technical documents, compare the KIP around drawing-set throughput, roll capacity, scanning, file handling, and stacking.
For graphics-focused output, compare the HP around 64-inch media, color control, specialty stocks, roll handling, and image quality.
If both types of work matter, test representative files and media on the proposed configurations rather than making the decision from brochures alone.
WiZiX works with both KIP and HP and serves businesses across Central and Northern California and Northern Nevada. Contact WiZiX for a wide-format consultation to compare the equipment around your actual workload, workspace, and service needs.
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FAQs About the KIP 700 C Series and HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro
What is the main difference between the KIP 700 C Series and HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro?
The KIP 700 C Series is designed primarily around technical and document production, with multiple-roll and multifunction configurations. The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro is built around wide-format graphics, color management, and media up to 64 inches.
Which printer is better for architectural and engineering drawings?
The KIP 700 C Series offers several features suited to technical-document environments, including two- or four-roll configurations, technical file-format support, toner-based output, and available integrated scanning. Required width, volume, and workflow should still determine the final configuration.
Which printer is better for posters and photo-quality graphics?
The HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro is designed for professional graphics. It supports media up to 64 inches wide, uses pigment inks, includes an embedded spectrophotometer, and supports photography, fine art, displays, and other graphics applications.
Can the HP DesignJet Z9+ Pro scan and copy like the KIP 700 C Series?
The HP Z9+ Pro is a print-only device. Wide-format scanning requires separate equipment. Several KIP 700 C Series configurations combine printing, copying, and scanning in one system.
Which system requires more installation planning?
Both require site planning for different reasons. The HP Z9+ Pro is roughly 102.6 inches wide because of its 64-inch format, while the KIP 700 C is narrower but heavier, with weight varying by configuration (see KIP’s specifications).. KIP also requires higher-voltage electrical service on a dedicated circuit.
