Contents
- The Top 9
- Top 9 Printers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Daily Use
- 3. Best Value
- 4. Best Lightweight
- 5. Runner-Up
- 6. Most Versatile
- 7. Best Compact
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- 9. Best Heavy-Duty
- Printers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Printers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
When searching for the best budget printer, HP DeskJet 2955 is the top choice. It is a wireless all-in-one printer that includes a scanner and copier. This model weighs just 10.450 lbs, making it easy to place anywhere in your home. For those looking for a great value, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a solid option. You give up some advanced features but still get excellent print quality for a lower cost.
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The Top 9
Top 9 Printers Reviewed in Detail
This article reviews several budget printers, focusing on features, performance, and usability.
1. Editor’s Choice
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a top pick for anyone looking for the best budget printer. It combines wireless functionality with scanning and copying features in one device. The printer weighs only 10.450 lbs, making it easy to move around your home or office. Compared to other options, it brings excellent value for everyday home use. In comparison, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 also does well with vibrant prints but lacks some advanced features. One limitation is that the DeskJet may not handle high-volume printing as efficiently as more expensive models.
Pros
- Wireless printing from any device
- All-in-one functionality with scanning and copying
- Lightweight design for easy placement
Cons
- Not ideal for high-volume printing
- May require frequent ink replacements
Best for: Home users needing basic printing functions. Not ideal for: Those who print large volumes regularly.
A reliable choice for everyday printing tasks.
2. Best for Daily Use
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer, Duplex Printing, Copier/Scanner, 1.42" OLED Display, Compact, White
- Affordable Versatility – A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints – Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use – Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity – Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling – Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
- Save Time & Paper – Optimize your printing with automatic 2-sided printing, reducing paper consumption and speeding up your workflow
- Diverse Media Support – Print a wide range of documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”, with or without borders, for all your creative and professional needs
- Intuitive OLED Display – Easily monitor ink levels, printer status, and adjust settings at a glance using the 1.42” Monochrome OLED screen
- Compact & Stylish – Designed to fit seamlessly into any workspace, its small footprint complements your environment without sacrificing functionality
- Convenient Mobile Printing2 – Print directly from your smartphone or tablet with popular services like the Canon PRINT App, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is a great option for daily use. It features a compact design and duplex printing, which allows for automatic double-sided printing. The 1.42″ OLED display makes it easy to work through settings. While it produces high-quality prints, the HP DeskJet 2955 offers more versatility with scanning and copying features. A downside is that it may not be as fast as some other models, affecting large print jobs. Still, it remains a strong contender for home users.
Pros
- Duplex printing for saving paper
- Compact design fits in small spaces
- High-quality prints with vibrant colors
Cons
- Slower print speeds for large jobs
- Limited scanning and copying functions
Best for: Home users needing color printing. Not ideal for: Those requiring extensive scanning capabilities.
A compact printer for everyday documents and photos.
3. Best Value
Canon PIXMA TS4320 – Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan
- Affordable Versatility – A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints – Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use – Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity – Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling – Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
- Save Time & Paper – Optimize your printing with automatic 2-sided printing, reducing paper consumption and speeding up your workflow
- Diverse Media Support – Print a wide range of documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”, with or without borders, for all your creative and professional needs
- Compact & Stylish – Designed to fit seamlessly into any workspace, its small footprint complements your environment without sacrificing functionality
- Convenient Mobile Printing2 – Print directly from your smartphone or tablet with popular services like the Canon PRINT App, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service
- Eco-Conscious Choice – This printer is EPEAT Silver and ENERGY STAR certified, helping you reduce your environmental footprint
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers affordability without sacrificing quality. This model is ideal for home users and hybrid workers. It shares several features with its sibling, the TS6520, like vibrant color prints but comes at a lower cost. When placed alongside the HP DeskJet 2955, the TS4320 covers similar ground but may lack some advanced features. Its limitation is the absence of a display, which can make navigation less user-friendly. Overall, it remains a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros
- Affordable pricing for a versatile printer
- High-quality prints for documents and photos
- Compact, suitable for small locations
Cons
- No display for easy navigation
- Less advanced features than competitors
Best for: Budget-conscious home users. Not ideal for: Users needing advanced navigation and features.
A solid choice for everyday printing on a budget.
4. Best Lightweight
Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Print, Scan, Copy
- AFFORDABLE ALL-IN-ONE FOR HOME AND HOME OFFICE: Print, copy, and scan on one compact wireless printer designed for everyday home office printing, schoolwork, documents, and reports. Produce beautiful prints for results that stand out.
- EASY TO USE WITH CLOUD APP CONNECTIONS: Print from and scan to popular Cloud apps(2), including Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and more from the simple-to-use 1.8” color display on your printer.
- FULL-SIZE FEATURES IN A COMPACT DESIGN: This printer includes automatic duplex (2-sided) printing, a 20-sheet single-sided Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)(3), and a 150-sheet paper tray(3). Engineered to print at fast speeds of up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color(4).
- MULTIPLE CONNECTION OPTIONS: Connect your way. Interface with your printer on your wireless network or via USB.
- MOBILE PRINTING MADE EASY: Go mobile with the Brother Mobile Connect app(5) that delivers easy onscreen menu navigation for printing, copying, scanning, and device management from your mobile device. Monitor your ink usage with Page Gauge to help ensure you don’t run out(6).
Brother Work Smart 1360 is a lightweight option, perfect for home and office. This all-in-one printer is designed for everyday tasks like copying and scanning. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, it has a slightly higher print volume capability but lacks wireless features. It excels in ease of use, making it suitable for users who need functionality without complexity. A notable limitation is its weight, which is slightly heavier than some compact models, making it less portable.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Multi-functionality for home use
- Easy to connect with cloud apps
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Limited wireless functionality
Best for: Users needing a simple all-in-one printer. Not ideal for: Those requiring extensive wireless options.
A practical choice for everyday printing needs.
5. Runner-Up
HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier with up to 3 Years of Ink Included, Best-for-Home, Cartridge-Free Refillable,…
- THE LAST PRINTER YOU’LL EVER NEED – Set it up once and print with confidence; no complicated maintenance, just easy, reliable printing you can count on
- FULLY LOADED WITH SAVINGS – Best for low-cost, high-volume printing—up to 3 years of HP Ink included; get up to 6,000 color or black pages right out of the box
- KEY FEATURES – Print, copy and scan, plus borderless prints, mobile and wireless printing
- MESS-FREE REFILL – Replenish ink with HP’s easy-access, mess-free refill system; simply plug the ink bottles into this cartridge-free ink tank and let them drain—no squeezing, no spilling
- BEST PRINT QUALITY, PERIOD – Sharper text, richer colors, only with HP Smart Tank
The HP Smart Tank 5003 stands out with its cartridge-free refillable ink system. It comes with up to 3 years of ink, making it an excellent choice for low-cost, high-volume printing. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it excels in cost-saving aspects, particularly for users with heavy printing needs. However, this model is bulkier, which can be a downside for those with limited space. You will need to consider your available space before choosing this printer.
Pros
- Up to 3 years of ink included
- Cartridge-free design for easy refills
- Great for high-volume printing
Cons
- Bulkier design takes up more space
- Higher initial setup may be required
Best for: Users with high-volume printing needs. Not ideal for: Those with limited space for a larger printer.
A great option for cost-effective high-volume printing.
6. Most Versatile
Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer
- Wireless Print/Copy/Scan
- Up to 2 years of ink included (2)
- Print up to 6,000 black & white / 7,700 color pages using a single set of inks! (1)
- Save up to $1,000 on ink (1)
- 1.35” Square LCD display
- Single-sided printing
- See below for disclaimers
The Canon MegaTank G3270 is known for its impressive ink savings. With a single set of inks, it can print up to 6,000 black and white pages and 7,700 color pages. This makes it ideal for someone who prints frequently. Compared to other models, this printer offers exceptional value for ink efficiency. However, it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models, which can limit functionality for advanced users. Despite this, it remains a cost-effective choice.
Pros
- Impressive ink savings and yield
- Wireless printing capabilities
- All-in-one functionality
Cons
- Limited advanced features
- May not meet high-end user needs
Best for: Budget-conscious users who print often. Not ideal for: Those seeking advanced features and capabilities.
An excellent choice for long-term ink savings.
7. Best Compact
HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier, Best-for-Home, 3 Month Trial of Instant Ink Included, AI-Capable (AJ4Y0A)
- AFFORDABLE COLOR PRINTING – Print everyday color documents like to-do lists, letters, financial documents and recipes
- KEY FEATURES – Color print, copy, scan, a 35-sheet auto document feeder and a 60-sheet input tray, plus mobile and wireless printing
- OPTIMIZE PRINT FORMATTING WITH HP AI – Print web pages and emails with precision—no wasted pages or awkward layouts; HP AI easily removes unwanted content, so your prints are just the way you want
- ICON LCD – Print your basic documents with ease from the intuitive control panel
- PRINT SPEED – Up to 8.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- WIRELESS PRINTING – Stay connected with our most reliable dual-band Wi-Fi, which automatically detects and resolves connection issues
- 3 MONTH TRIAL OF INSTANT INK INCLUDED – Subscribe to Instant Ink delivery service to get ink automatically delivered before you run out ; after 3 months, a monthly fee applies unless cancelled
- HP APP – Print, scan, copy, or fax right from your smartphone with the easiest-to-use print app
- SUSTAINABLE DESIGN – Made with at least 70% recycled plastics, plus it’s ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified
- COMPACT DESIGN – Made to fit any home
The HP DeskJet 4355 is another solid all-in-one option. It features a 35-sheet auto document feeder for easier scanning and copying. This model is lightweight and user-friendly, similar to the HP DeskJet 2955. While it may not have as many features, it serves well for everyday needs. A downside is that the print speed may be slower than other models, which can affect productivity for heavy users.
Pros
- 35-sheet auto document feeder
- Lightweight for easy placement
- User-friendly setup and operation
Cons
- Slower print speeds for large jobs
- Fewer advanced features than competitors
Best for: Simple home and school projects. Not ideal for: Users needing fast printing for larger jobs.
A user-friendly choice for everyday tasks.
8. Best for Small Spaces
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, Scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best-for-Home Office, 3 Month Trial of Instant Ink…
- FROM AMERICA’S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – The OfficeJet Pro 8125 is perfect for home offices printing professional-quality color documents like business documents, reports, presentations and flyers. Print speeds up to 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color.
- 3 MONTH TRIAL OF INSTANT INK INCLUDED – Subscribe to the Instant Ink delivery service to get ink delivered directly to your door before you run out, and you save up to 50% on ink; after 3 months, a monthly fee applies unless cancelled
- KEY FEATURES – Fast color printing, scan, copy, auto 2-sided printing, auto document feeder, and a 225-sheet input tray
- 2.7-INCH TOUCHSCREEN – Quickly navigate your printer with a large color touchscreen and a phone-like user interface
- WIRELESS PRINTING – Stay connected with our most reliable dual-band Wi-Fi, which automatically detects and resolves connection issues
- HP APP – Print, scan, copy, or fax right from your smartphone with the easy-to-use print app
- OPTIMIZE PRINT FORMATTING WITH HP AI – Print web pages and emails with precision—no wasted pages or awkward layouts; HP AI easily removes unwanted content, so your prints are just the way you want
- PROTECTS YOUR DATA – HP Wolf Essential Security bolsters security and helps keep your network protected from cyber threats
- SUSTAINABLE DESIGN – Made with more than 45% recycled plastic content
- This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry. Periodic firmware updates will maintain the effectiveness of these measures.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 delivers professional-quality prints. It is designed for home office use, with fast print speeds and duplex capabilities. This model competes well with the Canon PIXMA TS6520 for both quality and speed. While it offers more advanced features, it may not be as budget-friendly as other options. The main limitation is that it may be overkill for users who only need basic printing functions.
Pros
- Fast print speeds for efficiency
- Duplex printing for convenience
- Professional-quality color prints
Cons
- More expensive initial investment
- May be excessive for basic needs
Best for: Home office users requiring professional-quality prints. Not ideal for: Casual users needing simple printing tasks.
An efficient option for high-quality home office printing.
9. Best Heavy-Duty
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
- BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and delivers high-quality black & white prints
- FAST PRINTER WITH EFFICIENT SCANNING – Produces documents quickly with print speeds up to 36 ppm(2) and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm(3) (black/color). A 50-page auto document feeder(4) allows for convenient, time saving multi-page scanning and copying
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTION OPTIONS – Easily navigate the changing demands of your business with secure multi-device connectivity via built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Ethernet. Or connect locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Print, scan, and manage your wireless printer anytime, from almost anywhere from your mobile device. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(5)
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(6) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome printer designed for productivity. It combines printing, scanning, and copying into one unit, ideal for small offices. While it is a reliable choice, it primarily focuses on black and white printing. This model may not meet the needs of those looking for color printing options found in other models. A limitation is that it does not offer wireless features, which could hinder remote printing.
Pros
- Compact design fits small spaces
- Fast printing speeds for efficiency
- Monochrome printing for everyday documents
Cons
- Limited to black and white printing
- No wireless printing capabilities
Best for: Small offices needing efficient monochrome printing. Not ideal for: Users looking for color printing options.
A reliable choice for everyday monochrome printing.
Printers Compared Side by Side
In the table below, you’ll find key specs for each printer, including pros and cons. This will help you compare all options in your search for the best budget printer. Check each row to see which model fits your needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Editor's Choice | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer | Best for Daily Use | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best Value | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Best Lightweight | Brother | $99.98 | Check |
| 5 | HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer | Runner-Up | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Most Versatile | Canon | $159 | Check |
| 7 | HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Compact | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best for Small Spaces | HP | $109.99 | Check |
| 9 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | Best Heavy-Duty | Brother | $209.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from various reliable sources, including manufacturer websites and customer reviews. We focused on printers that meet the budget-friendly category. Information was verified to ensure accuracy.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist features eight printers selected based on their popularity and features. We looked at over 20 models and narrowed down the list based on user feedback and specifications.
What we ruled out and why
Models that did not meet essential criteria, such as high user ratings or reliable performance, were excluded. printers with limited functions or poor print quality were removed from consideration.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, nor were lab measurements taken. All scores are derived from qualitative data instead of personal experience or testing.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated periodically to reflect new products and customer feedback. Reviews will be adjusted as new data becomes available, ensuring you get the best information.
How to Choose Printers
Print Quality
Look for printers with at least a 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) resolution for sharp text. Higher resolution is essential for photo printing, so consider this if you plan to print pictures frequently.
Functionality
Choose an all-in-one printer if you also need to scan and copy documents. This feature adds value and saves space compared to buying separate devices.
Connectivity Options
Printers with wireless capabilities allow for easier printing from multiple devices. Check if the printer supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile printing apps to suit your needs.
Ink Efficiency
Consider models that offer high-yield ink cartridges. This means you can print more pages before needing to replace ink, which is important for saving money in the long run.
Size and Design
Measure the space where the printer will go. Some models are compact and designed for small areas, while others may require more room. Choose one that fits comfortably in your designated space.
What to look for
Print Speed
Print speed is measured in pages per minute (ppm). A good budget printer should print at least 10 pages per minute for black and white documents. Faster printers save time, especially for larger jobs.
Ink Type
Most budget printers use either inkjet or laser technology. Inkjet printers are versatile for color printing, while laser printers are generally faster and more economical for black and white documents.
Paper Handling
Check the input tray capacity. A printer with a 60-sheet or more capacity can handle more paper, reducing the need for frequent refills. This is especially useful for larger print jobs.
Maintenance Costs
Consider the long-term costs related to ink and maintenance. Some printers come with trial ink offers, while others might have costly ink replacements. Look for models with affordable ink options.
User Reviews
User reviews provide insights into a printer’s real-world performance. Look for consistently high ratings on print quality, ease of use, and customer support. This feedback helps to gauge reliability.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best budget printer for home use?
The best budget printer for home use is the HP DeskJet 2955. It offers great features and quality at a reasonable price.
Can budget printers print photos?
Yes, many budget printers, like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, can print high-quality photos, making them suitable for both documents and pictures.
Do budget printers have scanning capabilities?
Most budget printers, such as the HP DeskJet series, come with scanning and copying features, providing more value.
How often should I replace the ink in a budget printer?
Ink replacement frequency depends on usage. Generally, you might need to replace cartridges every few months or after printing several hundred pages.
Is wireless printing available in budget printers?
Yes, many budget printers, including the Brother Work Smart 1360, offer wireless printing, allowing you to print from various devices easily.
Shopping around? We have 75 more printer guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
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