Contents
Finding the best printer for students can be tricky. The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick because it is an all-in-one printer that includes a scanner and copier. It is lightweight at just 10.45 lbs, making it easy to move around. For those looking to save money, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a great budget option, but it lacks some advanced features like duplex printing.
A key tradeoff for buyers is between an all-in-one model and a basic printer. All-in-one devices, like HP DeskJet 2955, offer more features. However, they may cost more upfront compared to simple printers.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for printers designed specifically for students. Each offers unique features to fit different needs.
1. Best Overall
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for students. It combines printing, scanning, and copying in one compact device. Its lightweight design and wireless capabilities make it easy to use around the home or dorm.
Compared to other models, like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, this printer is more focused on affordability without sacrificing key features. The DeskJet 2955 still delivers impressive color prints and has a three-month trial of Instant Ink included. This means you won’t have to worry about running out of ink in the middle of a important project.
One limitation is that it may not have the fastest print speeds. While it does a good job for everyday tasks, students needing quick, high-volume printing might find it slower than options like the Brother Work Smart 1360, which is designed for more intensive use.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality with printing, scanning, and copying
- Lightweight at 10.45 lbs for easy transport
- Includes a three-month trial of Instant Ink for low-cost printing
Cons
- Slower print speeds compared to some models
- Not ideal for heavy-duty printing tasks
- May require frequent ink cartridge replacements after the trial
Best for: Students needing a versatile, compact printer. Not ideal for: Those who require high-speed printing for large volumes.
A solid choice for students looking for an all-in-one solution.
2. Best for Students
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 TS4320 is a budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for students. It offers high-quality prints for both documents and photos. This model includes a compact design and wireless connectivity, making it suitable for small study spaces.
When comparing it to the HP DeskJet 2955, the PIXMA TS4320 shines with its vibrant print quality. The hybrid ink system delivers sharp text and vivid colors, making it a great choice for presentations and visual projects. However, it lacks some advanced features like duplex printing found in higher-end models.
A notable limitation is that the paper handling capacity is lower than some competitors. With only a 60-sheet input tray, students might need to refill more often during busy print times. Overall, it remains a popular choice for those on a budget.
Pros
- High-quality photo and document printing
- Compact design that fits in tight spaces
- Affordable price for budget-conscious students
Cons
- Lower paper capacity at 60 sheets
- Lacks advanced features like duplex printing
- May require frequent ink changes with high volume use
Best for: Budget-conscious students needing good print quality. Not ideal for: Those who require advanced features or high paper capacity.
An excellent choice for students on a budget who want good quality prints.
3. Best Design
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 Brother Work Smart 1360 is designed for home and office use, making it suitable for busy students. This all-in-one printer can print, scan, and copy. It offers easy cloud app connections for smooth printing from your devices.
Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, the Brother model stands out for its sturdy construction and larger paper handling capacity. This makes it a top choice for students who need to print larger volumes quickly. However, it lacks the Instant Ink trial offered by HP, requiring upfront ink purchases.
One drawback is that it may be larger and heavier than competing models. Students with limited desk space might find it cumbersome. Still, its performance for school projects and reports makes it a solid option for many users.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality for printing, scanning, and copying
- Easy cloud app connections for remote printing
- Larger paper capacity for high-volume printing
Cons
- Larger and heavier than some alternatives
- No Instant Ink trial, which leads to upfront ink costs
- Print speeds may not be as fast as some laser models
Best for: Students needing high-volume printing. Not ideal for: Those with limited desk space or who require very fast print speeds.
A reliable choice for students who print often and need sturdy performance.
4. Best Budget
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 Canon PIXMA TS6520 is a stylish and functional printer. It features a compact design with a 1.42-inch OLED display for easy navigation. This printer is designed for everyday use, making it a great fit for students.
When compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, the PIXMA TS6520 offers superior print quality and a sleek design. Its hybrid ink system ensures vibrant colors and sharp text, making it ideal for school projects. However, the higher price tag may be a concern for students on a tight budget.
The main limitation is its lack of advanced scanning features. While it covers basic needs well, it may not be suitable for students requiring more extensive scanning options. Overall, it remains a fashionable choice for those prioritizing design and quality.
Pros
- Stylish compact design with an OLED display
- High-quality color and document printing
- Versatile with wireless connectivity options
Cons
- Higher price point compared to budget models
- Limited advanced scanning features
- May require frequent ink changes with high volume use
Best for: Students who value design and print quality. Not ideal for: Those needing extensive scanning features or on a strict budget.
A well-designed printer that excels in print quality and style.
5. Best Compact
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 unique option with a cartridge-free design. This printer comes with up to three years of ink included, making it ideal for students who need to cut costs on ink. It accommodates high-volume printing, providing up to 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages.
In comparison to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, the Smart Tank is designed for those who print frequently. The significant ink savings make it a standout choice. However, its larger size may not fit every study space comfortably.
One tradeoff is the printer’s bulkiness, which could be an issue for smaller rooms. Although it offers excellent value in ink savings, students need to ensure they have enough space for this machine.
Pros
- Cartridge-free design with up to three years of ink included
- High-volume printing capacity for students
- Reliable performance with easy setup
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in small spaces
- Bulkiness could be an issue for limited desk areas
- Requires careful handling to avoid spills during refilling
Best for: Students who print frequently and want to save on ink costs. Not ideal for: Those with limited space in their study area.
A cost-effective choice for students looking for long-term ink savings.
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 a wireless all-in-one printer designed for versatility. It comes with a high ink capacity, offering up to 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages from a single set of inks. This feature makes it perfect for students who need to print a lot without frequently replacing ink.
Compared to the HP Smart Tank 5003, the G3270 provides similar ink savings but may offer different connectivity options. Both printers excel in affordability and practicality for students. However, the G3270 lacks advanced print speeds, which might be a drawback for urgent projects.
One limitation is its single-sided printing only. This could lead to more paper usage and higher costs over time. Despite this, the MegaTank G3270 remains a strong contender for students looking for efficiency and value.
Pros
- Generous ink capacity for long-lasting use
- Wireless printing and scanning capabilities
- Affordable option for high-volume needs
Cons
- Single-sided printing only, leading to higher paper use
- May lack some advanced features of higher-end models
- Print speeds could be slow for urgent tasks
Best for: Students needing long-lasting ink and wireless capabilities. Not ideal for: Those who need double-sided printing or high-speed performance.
A practical choice for students focused on ink savings and basic functionality.
7. Most Versatile
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 an all-in-one printer that caters to everyday needs. It offers printing, scanning, and copying in a compact design. This printer is an excellent option for students managing various assignments.
When compared to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, the DeskJet 4355 is more budget-friendly but still provides the essential functions needed for schoolwork. However, the PIXMA TS4320 tends to have better print quality. While the DeskJet does well for general use, it may not hold up for high-quality photo printing.
A drawback is its smaller input capacity. With only 60 sheets in the tray, students may find themselves needing to refill frequently during busy times. Overall, it is a solid choice for budget-minded students.
Pros
- Compact all-in-one design for easy use
- Budget-friendly option for students
- Includes mobile and wireless printing features
Cons
- Smaller input tray requires frequent refilling
- Print quality may not match higher-end models
- Limited features compared to other all-in-one printers
Best for: Students needing a compact, budget-friendly printer. Not ideal for: Those requiring high-quality photo prints or larger paper capacity.
A dependable, budget-friendly option for essential printing tasks.
8. Best Value
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 office use but remains suitable for students. It features fast print speeds of up to 20 pages per minute for black and 10 for color. This efficiency can save valuable time for students juggling multiple assignments.
Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, the OfficeJet Pro 8125 excels in print speed and paper handling capacity. It offers a larger input tray and advanced features like duplex printing. However, its price may not fit all student budgets, especially those looking for inexpensive options.
One limitation is that it may be more complex to set up due to its advanced features. Students who prefer simple plug-and-play devices might find this printer challenging. Despite this, its performance makes it a strong contender for those needing fast and reliable printing.
Pros
- Fast print speeds up to 20 pages per minute
- Duplex printing feature saves paper and time
- Large input tray for less frequent refilling
Cons
- Higher price point may not suit all budgets
- More complex setup compared to basic models
- Not as compact as other student-oriented options
Best for: Students needing quick, high-volume printing. Not ideal for: Those on a tight budget or looking for a simple device.
A strong choice for students focused on speed and efficiency in printing.
Printers Compared Side by Side
This table compares the best printer for students based on features, design, and usefulness. Look at the columns to find what each printer offers and see which one suits your needs best.
| # | 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 Students | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best Design | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Best Budget | Brother | $99.98 | Check |
| 5 | HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer | Best Compact | 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 | Most Versatile | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best Value | 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
Printer Type
Decide on the type of printer you need. There are inkjet and laser printers. For students, inkjet printers, like the HP DeskJet 2955, are often better for vibrant color prints. If you print mostly text documents, a laser printer might be more efficient.
Connectivity Options
Check how you can connect to the printer. Wireless options let you print from anywhere in the house, which is convenient for students. Models like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 offer wireless capability, making it easy to print from laptops and mobile devices.
Print Quality
Look for printers that provide good print quality. A printer with a hybrid ink system, like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, can produce sharp text and vivid colors. Aim for a printer that can print at least 4800 x 1200 dpi for quality results.
Size and Design
Consider the size of the printer, especially if you have limited space. Compact models like the Brother Work Smart 1360 are great for small desks. Ensure the printer fits comfortably in your study area.
Cost of Ink
Evaluate how much ink cartridges will cost. Models like the HP Smart Tank 5003 include enough ink for up to 3 years, which can save money in the long run. Remember to check the page yield to understand how often you’ll need to replace cartridges.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from several reliable sources. These include manufacturer specifications, online reviews, and expert articles. This helped us ensure a well-rounded view of each printer.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist included 25 printers based on their features, user ratings, and value for money. We focused on models that are popular among students and have good reviews.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out any models that had consistently negative reviews or lacked essential features for students. If a printer had poor print quality or unreliable performance, it was removed from consideration.
What we did not do
None of the printers were tested by hand. We did not conduct lab measurements or assign scores. We relied solely on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months or sooner if new models are released. Regular updates ensure that the information is current and reflects the latest options for students.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer for students?
The best printer for students is the HP DeskJet 2955. It offers all-in-one functionality with printing, scanning, and copying features.
Do I need a color printer for schoolwork?
A color printer can be useful for school projects and presentations. However, if you mainly print text documents, a black and white printer may suffice.
How much ink do I need for a student printer?
Ink needs vary based on usage. Models like the HP Smart Tank 5003 come with enough ink for up to 3 years, making them economical for students.
Can I print wirelessly from my laptop?
Yes, many modern printers, like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, offer wireless connectivity. This allows you to print from your laptop or mobile device easily.
What features should I look for in a student printer?
Look for features like wireless connectivity, scan and copy functions, and good print quality. All-in-one printers often offer the best versatility for students.
What to look for
Print Speed
Print speed is important for students who need to print many documents quickly. Look for printers that can print at least 10 pages per minute for black and white. For color prints, aim for a speed of 5 pages per minute or more.
Paper Handling
Consider how much paper the printer can hold. A good printer should have an input tray that holds at least 60 sheets. This will reduce the frequency of reloading paper, which is helpful for busy students.
Operating System Compatibility
Make sure the printer is compatible with your operating system. Most printers work with Windows and Mac, but check for support if you use Linux or mobile devices. This ensures you can easily connect and print without issues.
Energy Efficiency
Choose a printer that is energy efficient. Look for models with Energy Star certification, which means they meet energy efficiency guidelines. This is good for the environment and can save money on electricity bills.
Durability
Check the build quality of the printer. A durable printer can withstand the rigors of student life. Look for models known for reliability and longevity to avoid frequent replacements.
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