Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Infrequent Use
- 3. Best Heavy-Duty
- 4. Runner-Up
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best for Small Spaces
- 7. Best Splurge
- 8. Best for Beginners
- Printers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Printers
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best printer for infrequent use can feel tough. The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick because it combines a compact design with a 3-month trial of Instant Ink. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers great features at a lower cost, but it lacks that long ink trial. Most buyers must decide between the convenience of Instant Ink or saving money upfront. The rest of the page helps you understand which factors are most important in your decision.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best printers for occasional printing needs. Each model has different strengths to fit your specific needs.
1. Best Overall
The HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One is designed for users who print infrequently. Its top feature is the inclusion of a 3-month trial of Instant Ink, which can save you time and money. It weighs just 10.45 lbs, making it easy to move and store. Compared to others, it is a solid choice for home use, especially if you print occasionally. While it does not have the highest print resolution, it fits perfectly for basic printing tasks. The main limitation is that it may not be suitable for users needing high-quality photo prints, as its focus is on everyday documents.
Pros
- Includes a 3-month trial of Instant Ink for cost savings.
- Compact design weighs only 10.45 lbs for easy storage.
- All-in-one functionality: print, scan, and copy capabilities.
Cons
- Lower print resolution may not suit photo printing needs.
- Limited paper tray capacity may require frequent refills.
Best for: Occasional home users seeking simple printing solutions. Not ideal for: Users who need high-quality photo printing.
A solid choice for those who print occasionally and want convenience.
2. Best for Infrequent 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 versatile printer that balances quality and affordability. It offers excellent print quality using a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system. This system produces sharp text and vibrant colors, making it great for both documents and photos. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, this model offers better overall print quality but lacks the 3-month ink subscription. One limitation is that while it has duplex printing, it is slower than some of the other models available. If you need a reliable printer for everyday tasks, this model stands strong.
Pros
- High-quality prints with sharp text and vivid colors.
- Compact and stylish design fits in small spaces.
- Includes a 1.42-inch OLED display for easy navigation.
Cons
- Slower duplex printing compared to some competitors.
- No ink subscription model included.
Best for: Users needing a versatile all-in-one solution. Not ideal for: Those who print frequently and want lower ink costs.
A great choice for versatile printing needs and vibrant results.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
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 another excellent option for infrequent use. This printer is compact and offers solid performance for everyday printing needs. Similar to the TS6520, it uses a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system for decent print quality. It easily fits into small spaces, but it lacks some advanced features like duplex printing. While it is budget-friendly, users must be aware that it does not come with an ink subscription. The main drawback is its limited features compared to higher-end models, making it less suitable for users with diverse printing requirements.
Pros
- Compact design suitable for small spaces.
- Affordable price with decent print quality.
- Multiple functions: print, copy, and scan.
Cons
- No duplex printing option for automatic double-sided pages.
- Limited advanced features compared to rivals.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic printing. Not ideal for: Users who require more advanced functions.
A reliable choice for everyday printing at an affordable price.
4. Runner-Up
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 solid printer that serves users who need an all-in-one solution. It handles printing, copying, and scanning effectively. It is compact and designed for everyday use, making it suitable for both home and home offices. In comparison to the Canon models, it offers more functionality, such as cloud app connections. However, it may not deliver the same level of print quality for photos. One limitation to consider is that it can be less user-friendly due to its cloud connection setup, which may confuse some users.
Pros
- Affordable all-in-one functionality for home and office use.
- Easy to use with cloud app connections.
- Compact design fits into small corner spaces.
Cons
- Print quality may not match competitors for photos.
- Cloud app setup may be confusing for some users.
Best for: Users needing an all-in-one printer with cloud capabilities. Not ideal for: Those prioritizing photo printing quality.
A versatile option for both home and office environments.
5. Best Lightweight
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 designed for users who want a reliable printer with a long-lasting ink supply. It comes with up to 3 years of ink, allowing for low-cost printing over time. Compared to others in this list, it excels in efficiency and cost savings for infrequent use. However, it is bulkier and may not fit in smaller spaces. Users should also be aware that it may require more maintenance than standard cartridge models. Overall, it’s a great choice for those focused on long-term savings.
Pros
- Up to 3 years of ink included for cost savings.
- Cartridge-free, refillable design reduces waste.
- All-in-one functionality for printing, scanning, and copying.
Cons
- Bulkier design may not suit small spaces.
- Requires regular maintenance for optimal performance.
Best for: Users needing long-term, low-cost printing. Not ideal for: Those with limited space or less willingness to maintain their printer.
A smart choice for those looking for long-lasting ink solutions.
6. Best for Small Spaces
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 built for high volume and low-cost printing. With up to 2 years of ink included, this model is great for infrequent use. It can print a high number of pages using a single set of inks, making it ideal for occasional users who want to save money. It also has a compact design, which is advantageous for smaller spaces. However, it may not provide the best print quality for photos, focusing more on efficiency. Users should also consider that it lacks some features present in more advanced models.
Pros
- Up to 2 years of ink included for maximum savings.
- Can print thousands of pages from a single ink set.
- Compact design fits well in small areas.
Cons
- Print quality may be lower for photos and graphics.
- Fewer advanced features compared to competitors.
Best for: Users prioritizing low-cost, high-volume printing. Not ideal for: Those who print a lot of photos or graphics.
An efficient choice for infrequent users focused on cost savings.
7. Best Splurge
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 printer designed for home use. Its key features include mobile and wireless printing options, making it easy to print from various devices. Compared to others, it is user-friendly and has a compact design. However, it may not be the best choice for high-quality photo printing. The main limitation is the smaller paper tray, which may require frequent refilling for larger print jobs. Overall, it’s suitable for casual users needing basic functions.
Pros
- Affordable color printing for everyday documents.
- Compact design with mobile and wireless printing.
- Includes a 35-sheet auto document feeder for convenience.
Cons
- Smaller paper tray capacity may require frequent refills.
- Not ideal for high-quality photo printing.
Best for: Casual users needing basic printing features. Not ideal for: Users looking for high-resolution photo printing.
A practical choice for everyday color printing needs.
8. Best for Beginners
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 designed for home offices and those needing high-quality printing. It offers fast print speeds and good color quality, making it suitable for professional documents. Compared to models like the DeskJet 2955, it provides better performance for business-related printing tasks. However, it may not be the best fit for infrequent users due to its higher price point. Users should also keep in mind that the ink costs can add up if printing infrequently. Overall, it’s great for those who prioritize print speed and quality.
Pros
- High print speeds of up to 20 ppm for black and 10 ppm for color.
- Includes a 3-month trial of Instant Ink for convenience.
- Perfect for professional-quality printing of documents.
Cons
- Higher price point may not suit casual users.
- Ink costs can add up with infrequent use.
Best for: Home offices needing fast, high-quality printing. Not ideal for: Infrequent users looking for low-cost options.
A strong option for those needing professional-quality prints quickly.
Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of the best printer for infrequent use options. The columns show the brand, model, key features, and specifications. Look for the row that matches your printing needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Overall | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer | Best for Infrequent Use | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best Heavy-Duty | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Runner-Up | Brother | $99.98 | Check |
| 5 | HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer | Best Lightweight | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Best for Small Spaces | Canon | $159 | Check |
| 7 | HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Splurge | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best for Beginners | 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 We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reliable sources such as manufacturer websites, expert reviews, and customer feedback. This research helps ensure you get accurate information about each printer.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on printers designed for infrequent use, filtering by user ratings and key features. After reviewing over 30 models, we selected the top eight based on their suitability for occasional printing.
What we ruled out and why
Models without wireless connectivity or those that did not support mobile printing were removed. We also excluded printers that had poor user reviews regarding reliability and print quality.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted, and we did not take any lab measurements. All scores and ratings were based on research from credible sources, ensuring no personal bias in the evaluations.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months to reflect the latest product releases and any changes in user feedback. This ensures that you have the most current information available.
What to look for
Print Quality
Look for printers that provide good print quality, especially if you print photos or detailed documents. A printer with a good resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI), produces clearer prints. For general use, a printer with at least 4800 x 1200 DPI is recommended for sharp images and text.
Ink Efficiency
Infrequent users should focus on ink efficiency. Some printers offer high-yield cartridges that last longer, especially if you print rarely. For example, models like the HP Smart Tank include multiple years of ink, which can save you money in the long run.
Connectivity Options
Choose a printer that easily connects to your devices. Wireless options allow printing from smartphones, tablets, or laptops without the hassle of cables. Make sure the printer supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile printing apps for convenience.
Size and Portability
Consider the size of the printer, especially if you have limited space. Smaller printers, like compact models, are easier to store and move. Aim for a printer that fits your workspace while still offering necessary features.
Cost of Ink and Maintenance
Look beyond the printer’s price to consider ongoing ink costs. Some printers use expensive cartridges, which can add up quickly. Checking for models with cheaper ink systems or those that offer bulk ink savings will help you save money over time.
How to Choose Printers
Prioritize Print Quality
When choosing a printer, focus on print quality. Look for a minimum resolution of 4800 x 1200 DPI for clear and sharp prints. This is especially important if you frequently print photos or documents with fine details.
Check Ink Efficiency
Consider ink efficiency for long-term savings. Look for printers that offer high-yield cartridges or come with a substantial amount of ink included. This helps reduce the frequency of ink replacement and can save you money.
Evaluate Connectivity Options
Ensure the printer has multiple connectivity options. Choose models with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile printing capabilities. This makes it easier to print from various devices without dealing with cables.
Assess Size and Portability
Measure your workspace and choose a printer that fits comfortably. Compact models are often easier to store and transport. Ensure you find a balance between size and the features you need.
Consider Total Cost of Ownership
Look at the total cost, including the printer price and ongoing ink costs. Choose models with affordable ink options to save money in the long run. Some brands offer subscription services that can also lower your costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer for infrequent use?
The best printer for infrequent use is the HP DeskJet 2955 due to its compact size and 3-month trial of Instant Ink, providing convenience for occasional printing.
How often should I print to avoid issues?
For optimal performance, print at least once a month. This prevents ink from drying and clogging the nozzles, which can happen with infrequent use.
Are ink tank printers better for infrequent use?
Yes, ink tank printers like the HP Smart Tank offer lower costs and longer-lasting ink, making them suitable for users who print less often.
Can I print from my phone?
Most modern printers, including those discussed here, allow printing directly from your phone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, providing flexibility.
What features should I look for in a printer for occasional use?
Look for good print quality, efficient ink usage, wireless connectivity, and a compact size. These features will enhance your experience for infrequent printing.
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