Contents
The best printer under 250 can be hard to choose. The HP DeskJet 2955 is the top pick. It offers all-in-one functionality with wireless printing and a three-month trial of Instant Ink. For a more budget-friendly option, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 delivers great features but lacks the advanced printing capabilities of the DeskJet. The decision often comes down to whether you prioritize high-quality color prints or saving money.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $250, cheapest first.
Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best printers available under $250.
1. Best Overall
The HP DeskJet 2955 is the best printer under 250. It features all-in-one capabilities, allowing you to print, scan, and copy. The wireless function adds convenience for home users. Compared to other options, such as the Brother Work Smart 1360, it offers more features at a similar price point. One limitation is that it may not be the fastest printer in this category, with lower print speeds than some competitors.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality: print, scan, and copy.
- Wireless printing for easy access.
- Three-month trial of Instant Ink included.
Cons
- Print speeds may be slower than competitors.
- Ink cartridges can be costly once the trial ends.
Best for: Home users looking for versatility. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty printing needs.
A reliable choice for home printing needs.
2. Most Versatile
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 TS6520 is a versatile option with wireless capabilities. It prints vivid colors and sharp text, making it perfect for documents and photos. While it offers duplex printing, the HP DeskJet 2955 may deliver better overall performance in terms of convenience and additional features. This model’s compact design is ideal for smaller spaces, yet it lacks some advanced functionalities. Users seeking all-in-one options may find the PIXMA less appealing than the DeskJet.
Pros
- Compact design for easy placement.
- Duplex printing saves paper.
- Sharp text and vibrant colors.
Cons
- Limited features compared to other models.
- May have higher ink costs over time.
Best for: Those needing a compact printer for home use. Not ideal for: Users requiring extensive printing features.
Great option for casual printing tasks.
3. Best Design
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 Canon PIXMA TS4320 is known for its affordable versatility. Its compact design makes it suitable for limited spaces. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it offers similar print quality but lacks duplex printing. This model is best for users looking for basic functions, such as printing and scanning. However, it may not meet the demands of users who need advanced features.
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Compact design for small spaces.
Cons
- Limited features compared to others.
- No duplex printing option.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic functionality. Not ideal for: Those requiring advanced features.
A solid choice for essential printing needs.
4. Best Splurge
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 Brother Work Smart 1360 is an all-in-one printer designed for everyday use. It excels in everyday printing tasks for home offices. While it offers solid performance, the HP Smart Tank 5003 may provide better long-term savings due to its ink tank system. This printer serves well for basic tasks, but the lack of advanced features could deter some users. It is best for light printing needs.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality: print, copy, scan.
- Compact size for easy storage.
- Designed for everyday tasks.
Cons
- Limited printing speed compared to others.
- Basic features may not suit all users.
Best for: Home offices with light printing needs. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty printing tasks.
Meets basic printing needs with ease.
5. 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 HP Smart Tank 5003 is designed for cost-effective printing. It includes up to three years of ink, making it budget-friendly for heavy users. Compared to the Brother Work Smart 1360, it offers more ink savings in the long run. However, its size might be bulkier for some users. This printer is ideal for those who frequently print large volumes and want to save on ink costs.
Pros
- Includes up to three years of ink.
- Cartridge-free design for easy refills.
- Designed for high-volume printing.
Cons
- Bulkier design may not fit small spaces.
- Setup may take longer than other models.
Best for: Users needing to print large volumes. Not ideal for: Small spaces or occasional users.
A budget-friendly choice for high-volume printing.
6. 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 Canon MegaTank G3270 is another great option for budget-conscious buyers. It comes with up to two years of ink included, allowing large print volumes. Compared to the HP Smart Tank 5003, it offers similar ink savings but may lack some features like an auto document feeder. While it is great for printing tasks, the design and functionality may not appeal to everyone. It suits those who print regularly and want to save on ink.
Pros
- Includes up to two years of ink.
- Wireless functionality for convenience.
- Can print large volumes at a low cost.
Cons
- No auto document feeder.
- Basic design may not appeal to all users.
Best for: Regular users looking to save on ink. Not ideal for: Those needing advanced features.
A smart choice for users focused on ink savings.
7. Best Compact
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 HP DeskJet 4355 is perfect for everyday color printing. It includes mobile and wireless printing options, which are essential for modern users. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, it provides easier setup and additional features such as a 35-sheet auto document feeder. However, it may lack the speed of other models, making it less suitable for high-demand situations. This printer is great for those who need a reliable option for daily print tasks.
Pros
- Includes a mobile and wireless printing option.
- Auto document feeder for easy scanning.
- Compact size for limited spaces.
Cons
- Slower print speeds than some competitors.
- Limited high-volume printing capability.
Best for: Users needing reliable daily printing. Not ideal for: High-demand printing tasks.
A reliable option for everyday printing tasks.
8. Best for Daily Use
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 OfficeJet Pro 8125 serves home offices well. It offers high-quality color printing and a range of functionalities. Compared to the Brother Work Smart 1360, it provides faster print speeds, making it suitable for busy environments. However, it may be slightly pricier than other options. This printer is perfect for users needing professional-grade documents in their home office.
Pros
- Fast print speeds for efficiency.
- High-quality color printing.
- Includes a three-month trial of Instant Ink.
Cons
- May be pricier than basic models.
- Setup can be complicated for some users.
Best for: Home office users needing professional prints. Not ideal for: Casual home users.
A strong contender for home office printing needs.
Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the best printer under 250 options available. You can compare their key features, such as print quality and extra functions. Look at the columns 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 | Best Overall | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer | Most Versatile | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best Design | 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 Budget | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Best Value | 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 Daily Use | 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 various trusted sources, including manufacturer websites and user reviews. This provided a clear picture of each printer’s capabilities.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes the top printers based on specifications and user ratings. We considered around 30 models before selecting these eight based on performance and value.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded printers with poor customer reviews or lacking essential features like wireless capability. Any model that did not meet basic printing needs was removed.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed for this guide. We did not take any lab measurements or assign scores to products. All findings are based on research.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly, at least every three months. We will refresh the data to ensure it remains relevant and accurate.
How to Choose Printers
Consider Print Quality
Print quality is essential for a good printer. Look for models with at least 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi for high-quality images. You want clear, sharp text and vibrant colors.
Check for Wireless Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is important for convenience. Choose a printer that supports Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This allows you to print from your phone or tablet easily.
Look at Ink Costs
Ink costs can add up. Check how many pages you can print with a full set of inks. Some printers come with a subscription service to lower ink costs over time.
Evaluate Size and Design
The size of the printer matters, especially for small spaces. Measure your desk area and compare it with the printer’s dimensions. A compact design can save space.
Consider Additional Features
Look for extra features like duplex printing or scanning. These can save you time and paper. Consider what functions you need most for your printing tasks.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is a major factor in choosing a printer. A good printer should provide clear text and vivid colors. Aim for a printer that offers at least 4800 x 1200 dpi for images and graphics.
Speed
Print speed can vary significantly between models. Look for a printer that can print at least 10 pages per minute for black and white and 7 pages for color. This helps you print documents quickly.
Connectivity Options
Modern printers often include various connectivity options. Ensure your printer supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB connections for easy printing from different devices. Wireless options provide extra convenience.
Size and Design
The size and design of a printer are important considerations, especially for small workspaces. Check the dimensions and consider how it will fit in your home or office. A compact design can be a big advantage.
Additional Features
Additional features can enhance your printing experience. Duplex printing allows automatic double-sided printing, saving paper. Scanning and copying functions add versatility, making all-in-one printers a smart choice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer under 250?
The best printer under 250 is the HP DeskJet 2955. It offers great features like wireless printing and all-in-one functionality.
Are all-in-one printers worth it?
Yes, all-in-one printers are worth it for their versatility. They can print, copy, and scan, making them useful for home or office needs.
How do I choose a printer?
To choose a printer, consider factors like print quality, speed, size, and connectivity. Think about what you will use it for.
Can I print from my phone?
Yes, many printers now support mobile printing via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Make sure to check the printer specifications for compatibility.
What is the average lifespan of a printer?
The average lifespan of a printer is around 3-5 years. This can vary based on usage and maintenance.
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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