Contents
Finding the best printer for car needs careful thought. The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick. It is compact and lightweight at 10.450 lbs. This makes it easy to store and transport in your vehicle. For those looking to save money, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 is a great value pick. You give up a bit of print speed and weight, but it still delivers excellent quality prints.
Most buyers face a choice between portability and speed. The HP DeskJet offers easy transport but may print slower than others like the Canon PIXMA TS6520. The rest of this page provides detailed reviews and comparisons of other options that can fit your car printing needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are the top printers for your car. Each one has features that make them easy to use on the go.
1. Top Pick
The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick for the best printer for car. This all-in-one printer offers essential features like wireless printing and a compact design. Its lightweight of 10.450 lbs makes it easy to carry in any vehicle. Compared to others, it is user-friendly and includes a three-month trial of Instant Ink for convenience. This service helps you avoid running out of ink while on the road.
When matched against the Canon PIXMA TS6520, the DeskJet excels in portability. However, the PIXMA offers faster print speeds, making it suitable for those needing quicker results. The DeskJet focuses more on ease of use and transport, which can be more important for car users who need reliable printing on the go. An honest limitation is its relatively slower print speed, which might not suit those with high-volume printing needs.
Overall, the HP DeskJet 2955 provides a great balance of convenience and functionality. You can easily print documents or photos without hassle. It is an excellent option for anyone needing a reliable printer while traveling.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Wireless printing capability
- Includes a trial of Instant Ink service
Cons
- Slower print speeds compared to some models
- Limited to basic printing functions
Best for: Light, portable printing needs in a car. Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing tasks.
This printer is perfect for easy transport and reliable printing on the go.
2. Best for Car
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 an excellent choice as the best printer for car users needing versatility. It features wireless color printing and a compact design, making it ideal for mobile use. This printer excels in print quality thanks to its hybrid ink system. It delivers sharp text and vibrant colors, making it a strong contender for photo prints and documents. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, it offers better print quality and faster speeds, making it suitable for users who print frequently.
However, the PIXMA is slightly heavier than the DeskJet, which may be a consideration for those with limited space in their vehicle. The tradeoff is that while the PIXMA delivers superior quality and speed, it sacrifices some portability. It’s not as lightweight, but offers greater versatility for those who prioritize print quality over weight.
In summary, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 is a fantastic option for users who want quality prints on the move. It strikes a balance between functionality and ease of use, making it an ideal printer for car users who enjoy high-quality outputs.
Pros
- Excellent print quality for photos and documents
- Compact and wireless design
- Fast printing speeds
Cons
- Heavier than some other models
- May need more frequent ink changes
Best for: Users who prioritize print quality. Not ideal for: Those seeking the lightest option.
This printer provides exceptional print quality, making it a standout choice for on-the-go printing.
3. Best for Daily Use
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 is a solid pick for those seeking the best printer for car use at an affordable price. It offers wireless color printing and a compact design. The PIXMA TS4320 produces vibrant prints and sharp text, making it suitable for various printing tasks. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it is slightly less capable in terms of speed and features but still offers great value for the price.
While it is a reliable all-in-one printer, users should note that it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models. The absence of duplex printing, for instance, means you will need to manually flip pages for double-sided prints. This could be a drawback for those who often print on both sides of the paper.
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a reliable choice for car users who want versatility without spending too much. It provides good print quality and features that meet basic needs, making it a strong budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile printing options
Cons
- Lacks duplex printing
- Slower than some other models
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic functionality. Not ideal for: Frequent double-sided printing.
This printer is a great budget option without sacrificing essential features.
4. Best Splurge
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).
The Brother Work Smart 1360 is a great all-in-one printer for those looking for the best splurge option. It is designed for home and home office use but works well in cars too. This model offers wireless printing, copying, and scanning, making it versatile. It produces beautiful prints and has an easy-to-use interface. Compared to the HP models, this printer stands out for its cloud app connections, allowing remote printing and scanning.
However, its size can be somewhat bulky for car use, especially if space is limited. While it has impressive features, users may find it challenging to fit in smaller vehicles. The Brother Work Smart 1360 is excellent for those who need high-quality prints and extra functionality.
Overall, this printer is a strong option for users who value performance. It balances quality and added features, making it a good investment for home and car use.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality with wireless printing
- Quality output for various tasks
- Cloud app connections for easy access
Cons
- Bulkier than other options
- May require more space
Best for: Users who want high-quality prints and multi-functionality. Not ideal for: Small car spaces.
This printer offers great quality and features, making it worth the investment.
5. Best for Beginners
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 is a standout printer that emphasizes low-cost, high-volume printing. It includes up to three years of ink, making it a budget-friendly choice for car users. The cartridge-free ink tank system makes it easy to refill and manage. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, this model offers much higher page yields, reducing the need for frequent ink replacements. This makes it appealing for users who print regularly.
However, its size is on the larger side, which may not suit all vehicles. While it excels in cost efficiency, those with limited space may find it challenging to accommodate it. It is best for users who prioritize printing volume over portability.
In summary, the HP Smart Tank 5003 is an excellent option for heavy users. It offers impressive savings on ink costs and reliability for everyday printing tasks.
Pros
- Includes up to three years of ink
- Cartridge-free and easy to refill
- High-volume printing capabilities
Cons
- Larger size may be hard to fit in cars
- Less portable than smaller models
Best for: High-volume printing needs. Not ideal for: Users with limited vehicle space.
This printer is perfect for users who print a lot and want to save on ink.
6. Runner-Up
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 offers an all-in-one solution for printing, copying, and scanning. It includes up to two years of ink, making it a strong choice for cost-conscious car users. This printer has a wireless feature that allows easy printing from mobile devices. Compared to others like the Brother Work Smart 1360, it focuses on ink savings, producing thousands of pages per tank. However, its print quality does not match that of some premium models.
Users should be aware that while it is economical, the output quality may fall behind competitors. Those seeking high-resolution prints may want to consider more advanced options. However, for everyday use and basic tasks, it performs well and can meet most needs.
The Canon MegaTank G3270 is a reliable option if you want to save on ink costs. It offers decent performance and great savings without sacrificing too much functionality.
Pros
- Includes up to two years of ink
- Wireless printing capabilities
- Cost-effective for high-volume printing
Cons
- Print quality is less than premium models
- May not meet high-resolution needs
Best for: Economical printing solutions. Not ideal for: Users needing high-resolution outputs.
This printer is economical and saves costs effectively, making it suitable for everyday tasks.
7. Best Premium
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 choice for car users looking for the best printer for light use. This model combines printing, scanning, and copying in one compact design. It features a 35-sheet auto document feeder, adding to its convenience. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, it offers more features, such as mobile printing capabilities. This makes it easy to print from anywhere using your smartphone.
However, it may not have the same print speed as some competitors in its class. Users needing fast results may find this limitation significant. The DeskJet 4355 is best for those who require basic functionality without the need for rapid output.
In summary, the HP DeskJet 4355 is a great option for car users who seek a reliable and multifunctional printer. It is easy to use and provides essential features while remaining compact.
Pros
- Includes mobile printing features
- Compact design with auto document feeder
- Affordable and easy to use
Cons
- Slower print speed
- Limited to basic printing functions
Best for: Users needing basic functionality in a compact form. Not ideal for: High-speed printing tasks.
This printer is a user-friendly option that meets basic needs effectively.
8. Best Budget
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 is a top choice for users looking for a premium printer that offers excellent print quality. It is designed for home offices but can be used in cars as well. This model provides fast print speeds of up to 20 ppm for black and 10 ppm for color, making it suitable for business use. Compared to the other models, it excels in speed and quality, making it a great choice for those who print frequently.
However, the OfficeJet Pro 8125 is larger and bulkier than many compact options. This could be a drawback for users with limited space in their vehicles. While it offers superior performance, users need to consider whether they can accommodate its size.
Overall, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 is an excellent choice for those prioritizing print quality and speed. If you need a reliable printer for business documents while on the go, this model will serve you well.
Pros
- Fast print speeds for black and color
- High-quality output for professional use
- Multiple functions in one device
Cons
- Bulkier than other options
- Higher price point
Best for: Users needing professional-quality prints. Not ideal for: Those with limited space or budget.
This printer combines speed and quality, making it a solid investment for serious users.
Printers Compared Side by Side
This table compares the best printer for car options. Each column shows key features like weight, print quality, and functionality. Check the rows to find which printer meets your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Top Pick | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer | Best for Car | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best for Daily Use | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Best Splurge | Brother | $99.98 | Check |
| 5 | HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer | Best for Beginners | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Runner-Up | Canon | $159 | Check |
| 7 | HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Premium | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best Budget | HP | $109.99 | Check |
| 9 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | — | Brother | $209.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Printers
Size and Weight
When choosing a printer for your car, size and weight are key. Look for models under 15 lbs. They are easier to lift and fit in tight spaces. Compact models also take up less room.
Wireless Connectivity
Choose a printer with wireless features. This lets you print from your phone or tablet without needing cables. Ensure it supports Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for easy connection.
Print Quality
Check the printer’s print quality. Look for a model that offers at least 4800 x 1200 dpi for clear images and sharp text. This is especially important for printing photos or documents.
Ink System
Consider the ink system used by the printer. Models with cartridge-free systems save money in the long run. They can hold more ink and produce more pages before needing a refill.
Multi-function Features
Multi-function printers can save space and money. Look for models that print, scan, and copy. This means you can do more tasks without needing extra devices.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reliable online sources, including customer reviews and product specifications. Each printer was reviewed based on features, usability, and user satisfaction. This gave us a clear picture of each model’s strengths.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes top-rated printers specifically suited for car use. We reviewed 20 models, filtering for weight, size, and wireless capabilities. Only the best and most relevant models made the final cut.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out printers that did not meet our weight and size criteria. Models over 15 lbs or those without wireless capabilities were excluded. This ensured that our picks are easy to transport.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was done for any printer. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. Our findings are based purely on sourced data and expert reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every few months. We check for new printer releases and changes in user feedback. This ensures that our recommendations remain accurate and helpful.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer for car use?
The best printer for car use is the HP DeskJet 2955. It is lightweight, compact, and offers great features for on-the-go printing.
Can I connect my phone to the car printer?
Yes, many car printers like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 have wireless connectivity. This allows you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Do I need special paper for these printers?
Most printers can use standard paper. However, if you want high-quality photos, consider using photo paper for the best results.
How long does ink last in a car printer?
Ink life varies by model and usage. Many printers offer several months of printing before needing a refill. Check the specific model for details.
Are there portable printers for car use?
Yes, there are several portable printers like the Brother Work Smart 1360. These are designed for easy transport and use in various locations.
What to look for
Portability
Portability is key for car printers. Look for printers that weigh under 15 lbs. This makes them easy to carry and store in your vehicle. Compact designs help fit in small spaces.
Print Speed
Print speed is important if you need quick results. Look for printers that offer at least 10 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white prints. This can save you time when you need documents fast.
Battery Life
Some car printers have battery options. If you often print away from power sources, check the battery life. A printer with at least 100 pages per charge is preferable for convenience.
Ink Efficiency
Consider ink efficiency, especially if you print often. Look for printers that offer high page yields, like 6,000 pages per set of inks. This can save you money and reduce waste.
User-Friendly Features
User-friendly features make a printer easier to use. Look for models with touchscreen controls and wireless connectivity. These features simplify the printing process and enhance your experience.
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
About the author
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