Image Color Test Page (PDF)

Please note that, for testing your photo printer, you should use this test image provided here on this page instead.

At this point we assume that you have already performed all of the previous selection of color tests. You should only perform color image test once you’re happy with results of all three previous tests. If you have not performed the previous tests, it is highly advised to do so, as each of those tests is specifically designed to target certain features of your printer.

The image test is likely to be the most challenging to execute as it aims to achieve the highest possible picture quality from your printer. It will utilize as much ink or toner as all of the previous tests combined. However, there is no need to worry too much about this. The purpose of this test is to reveal the true performance of your printer since most inexpensive printers do not perform very well when it comes to high-quality picture images.

In contrast, printing this color test page is more likely to highlight any problems or shortcomings that your CMYK printer may have when it comes to color printing or the CMYK color process.

CMYK Color Test Page will test cmyk performance on your inkjet or laserjet printer

Click download button below to get the PDF file required for this test.

How to use this test

Using high-quality paper is essential for getting the best results from your printer. Look for paper that is designed specifically for your printer type and model.

Adjust the printer settings: To get the best results, make sure you have the correct printer settings for the type of paper you are using. You can usually find recommended settings in the printer manual or online.

Consider using a color management system: A color management system can help ensure that the colors in your photos are accurate and consistent across different devices and printers.

Check the ink or toner levels: Before printing, make sure you have enough ink or toner in your cartridges. If the levels are low, you may not get the best results.

To print the downloaded PDF test page, follow these steps:

Open the test page in a PDF viewer or image editor.
Go to the Print dialog box and select your printer.
Make sure the printer settings are correct for the type of paper you are using.
Click Print and wait for the test page to print.

Once the print job is complete, analyze the test page to ensure that the printer is producing the correct colors, shades, and gradients. Look for any visible banding, streaks, or other anomalies that could indicate issues with the printer.

How to evaluate this test

When evaluating photo quality, there are a few things you can look for:

Color accuracy: The colors in the printed photo should match the colors in the original image as closely as possible. Use a reference image to compare the colors side by side.

Contrast: The range of tones in the photo should be balanced, with rich shadows and bright highlights.

Detail: The photo should be sharp and show fine details.

Texture: If the photo contains any textures, they should be visible and not blurred or muddied.

Grain: If the photo contains any grain (as in film photography), it should be uniform and not blotchy or speckled.

To compare the printed photo to the PDF on your screen, you can use a color calibration tool to ensure that your monitor is displaying colors accurately. Keep in mind that the colors on your screen may not match the printed photo exactly due to differences in color gamut and calibration between your monitor and printer.

When printing photos, it is recommended to use high-quality photo paper and the appropriate printer settings for photo printing. A4 size should not be a problem as long as the printer can handle that paper size. It’s also a good idea to use the printer’s highest quality settings for photo printing to get the best possible results.

What’s next?

Once you’re happy with your color test page appearance, you should consider several important measures to maintain printing quality over time.

As your printer ages, it may start to experience wear and tear that can affect its performance and output quality. However, regular maintenance and care can help prolong its life and maintain its quality.

To prevent ink from drying or toner from clogging, it’s important to use your printer regularly, especially if you have an inkjet printer. Inkjet printers are more prone to clogging if they are not used frequently.

For laser printers, you can perform regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning the printer, replacing the toner cartridge when it’s empty, and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.

Keep testing regularly

Performing regular printing tests can help you monitor the quality of your printer’s output over time. You should perform these tests every few months, or more frequently if you use your printer heavily. Keeping printed test pages for comparison can help you identify any changes in print quality and make adjustments to improve it.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your printer maintains its quality and lasts for as long as possible.