Contents
Finding the best printer under 50 can be tough. The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick. It is an all-in-one color inkjet printer with scanning and copying features. This model includes a three-month trial of Instant Ink, which helps manage ink costs. For those looking to save, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers solid performance but lacks the Instant Ink trial.
The main tradeoff for most buyers is between extra features, like the Instant Ink trial and simple printing functions. The rest of this page will help you compare each printer’s strengths and weaknesses to find what works for you.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $50, cheapest first.
Top 8 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review each printer in detail to help you choose the best one for your needs.
1. Top Pick
The HP DeskJet 2955 is an all-in-one color inkjet printer that fits various needs. It includes features like scanning and copying. Its lightweight design makes it easy to place anywhere in your home. Compared to other picks, it offers good value with the Instant Ink trial that helps save on ink costs.
In comparison to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, which also has vibrant print quality, the HP model includes a valuable subscription service. However, the PIXMA TS4320 is smaller and is known for exceptional photo printing. The DeskJet’s limitation is that it may struggle with larger print jobs over time, making it less ideal for high-volume use.
Overall, this model excels in providing essential functions for home use. If you need a reliable basic printer with added features, it is a suitable choice.
Pros
- All-in-one functions: print, scan, and copy
- Includes three-month trial of Instant Ink subscription
- Lightweight design at 10.45 lbs
Cons
- May not handle high-volume printing well
- Basic features compared to higher-end models
Best for: Home users needing an all-in-one solution. Not ideal for: Heavy users with frequent printing needs.
This printer is a great starter option for home use.
2. 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 TS6520 is a compact wireless inkjet printer that offers excellent versatility. With its duplex printing feature, you can save paper while printing double-sided documents. The vivid colors and sharp text make it a great option for both documents and photos. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, it has a smaller footprint, making it suitable for users with limited space.
While it performs better in print quality than some competitors, it might require more frequent ink changes. This could add to the ongoing costs, especially for users who print regularly. In contrast, the HP model provides the added benefit of an ink subscription service.
Overall, the PIXMA TS6520 makes a solid choice for home users who need a reliable and compact printer for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Great photo and document printing quality
- Compact size fits easily in tight spaces
- Includes duplex printing for paper savings
Cons
- May require frequent ink replacements
- Limited features compared to other models
Best for: Occasional home users and hybrid workers. Not ideal for: Users needing heavy-duty printing.
This printer is versatile and well-balanced for everyday tasks.
3. 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 Canon PIXMA TS4320 is another solid all-in-one printer designed for home users and hybrid workers. This model combines printing, scanning, and copying functions within a compact design. It’s user-friendly and easy to set up, which is great for beginners. Compared to the other Canon model, the TS6520, this one has fewer advanced features but remains a budget-friendly alternative.
Though it excels at basic tasks, the print speed may lag behind other models in this category. For example, the HP DeskJet 2955 is faster, but the TS4320’s print quality is still impressive for both documents and photos. Users who prioritize speed may find this limitation significant.
Overall, the PIXMA TS4320 serves as a versatile printer for everyday needs without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable option with all-in-one capabilities
- Easy to set up and use
- Compact design saves space
Cons
- Basic features may not satisfy advanced users
- Print speed is slower compared to others
Best for: Users needing a straightforward and reliable printer. Not ideal for: Those requiring advanced features or fast speeds.
This printer offers excellent versatility at a budget price.
4. Best Budget
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 color inkjet printer designed for everyday tasks. It can print, scan, and copy, making it suitable for a variety of home and office applications. This model stands out for its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to move around. Compared to the Canon PIXMA models, this one may lack some advanced features but remains effective for basic printing needs.
While it is affordable and easy to use, the printing speeds are not the fastest, which could be a drawback for users who need to print many pages quickly. The HP DeskJet 2955 may deliver better performance in that regard. Users should keep this limitation in mind when considering their printing demands.
Overall, the Brother Work Smart 1360 is a good choice for users who need a reliable printer for occasional tasks without extra features or costs.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable all-in-one functions
- Easy wireless printing options
Cons
- Not the fastest printing speeds
- Limited to basic color printing features
Best for: Casual users with occasional printing needs. Not ideal for: Office settings that require high-volume prints.
This printer is a solid budget choice for light users.
5. Best for Beginners
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 an all-in-one ink tank printer designed for high-volume printing. It stands out with a cartridge-free design that allows users to refill the ink tanks directly. This model includes up to three years of ink, which can print thousands of pages. Compared to other picks, it offers significant savings on ink costs, making it a great long-term investment.
However, its larger size may not be suitable for every workspace. In contrast, more compact models like the Canon PIXMA TS4320 are easier to fit in small areas. Users looking for portability may find this model less convenient due to its size.
Overall, the Smart Tank 5003 is excellent for users who prioritize lower ink costs and sustainability in their printing solutions.
Pros
- Includes a long-term ink supply
- Cartridge-free design is eco-friendly
- User-friendly setup and operation
Cons
- Larger size may not fit all spaces
- Higher initial cost compared to others
Best for: Users looking for long-term savings on ink. Not ideal for: Those needing a compact printer.
This printer is a great option for beginners focused on sustainability.
6. Best Splurge
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 designed for users needing a high-volume printer. Its ink tank system is designed for long-lasting use, capable of printing thousands of pages on a single fill. This model combines printing, copying, and scanning capabilities, making it versatile for various tasks. Compared to others on this list, it offers a significant advantage in terms of long-term ink savings, which is appealing for users who print frequently.
The downside is its bulkiness compared to traditional printers, which may require more desk space. Models like the HP DeskJet 2955 are more compact and travel-friendly. Users should consider how much space they can dedicate to the printer before making a choice.
In summary, the MegaTank G3270 is excellent for users focused on high volume and low ink costs, but it may not be the best fit for small areas.
Pros
- High-capacity ink tank system
- Can print thousands of pages on a single set of inks
- Versatile all-in-one functionality
Cons
- Bulkier than traditional printers
- Requires more space and careful management
Best for: Users with heavy printing needs. Not ideal for: Smaller spaces or minimal use cases.
This model is best for those who print extensively.
7. 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 HP DeskJet 4355 offers basic printing, scanning, and copying features in a compact design. This all-in-one printer is lightweight, making it easy to move around if necessary. Compared to other models, it excels at everyday tasks without unnecessary complexity. It is ideal for users who do not need advanced functions or high print speeds.
While it is a budget-friendly option, it does have slower print speeds, which may not be suitable for high-volume printing. Users who require more efficiency may want to consider alternatives like the Canon PIXMA TS6520. Some may find its basic features limiting for more demanding tasks.
Overall, the DeskJet 4355 serves as a practical choice for users needing straightforward printing solutions, especially in small spaces.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Compact design fits limited spaces
- Basic printing functions for everyday use
Cons
- Limited features compared to larger models
- Slower print speeds for high volumes
Best for: Users with limited desk space. Not ideal for: Heavy users requiring advanced functions.
This printer is a practical choice for those needing basic printing capabilities.
8. 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 OfficeJet Pro 8125 is a versatile all-in-one printer that’s lightweight and compact. It serves basic printing, scanning, and copying needs well, making it suitable for users who do not require extensive features. Compared to the other picks, it is designed for easy transport and use in small workspaces.
However, it may lack speed and features compared to higher-end models in the same brand. Users looking for advanced functionality may find this printer limited. It is more suited for basic tasks rather than for high-volume printing.
In summary, the OfficeJet Pro 8125 is a good choice for users needing a reliable and portable printer for everyday tasks, though it is not meant for heavy usage.
Pros
- Lightweight design for easy transport
- Compact size for small areas
- Basic functions suitable for light use
Cons
- Limited printing speed and features
- Not ideal for large volume printing
Best for: Users needing a simple printer for light tasks. Not ideal for: Offices needing fast, high-volume printing.
This printer is designed for those who need basic printing without extra bulk.
Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best printer under 50. Each column shows key features like type, functions, and special offers. Users interested in basic printing should pay close attention to the specifications.
| # | 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 Daily Use | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Most Versatile | 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 for Beginners | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Best Splurge | Canon | $159 | Check |
| 7 | HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best for Small Spaces | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best Lightweight | 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
Understand Printing Types
Look for an inkjet printer if you need color printing. Inkjet printers are good for photos and documents. Laser printers are faster but usually cost more upfront. Check what you mainly print to decide.
Check Ink Options
Some printers come with a trial of ink subscription services. This can save you money, especially if you print a lot. Compare the ink costs to see what fits best with your budget.
Look for All-in-One Features
If you need scanning and copying too, choose an all-in-one model. This lets you do more with one machine. Make sure it has a good scanner resolution for clear copies.
Consider Size and Weight
If space is limited, choose a compact printer. Smaller models fit easily on desks without taking up much room. Weigh the size against the features to find the best balance.
Evaluate User-Friendliness
Look for printers with easy setup and wireless printing. User-friendly interfaces make it simpler to operate. Check reviews about how easy the printer is to use for everyday tasks.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reputable sources such as manufacturer websites and expert reviews. This ensures reliable and accurate information on each printer’s specs and features.
How we built this shortlist
Over 30 budget printers were considered for this list. We focused on models under $50 with positive user feedback. The most suitable options made it to our final selection.
What we ruled out and why
Printers that had negative reviews regarding reliability or high ink costs were removed. We also excluded models with limited functionality or low print quality.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted. All data is based on research from verified sources. We did not assign any scores, focusing instead on features and specifications.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed monthly to ensure accuracy. We check for new products and updated features. Information is refreshed based on the latest user feedback and industry changes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer under 50?
The best printer under 50 is the HP DeskJet 2955. It combines printing, scanning, and copying features. It also includes a trial of Instant Ink for added value.
Are there all-in-one printers under 50?
Yes, many all-in-one printers are available under 50. These models can print, scan, and copy. The HP DeskJet 2955 is an excellent example of this type.
Can I use these printers for photos?
Yes, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 is well-regarded for photo printing. It produces vibrant colors and sharp text, making it suitable for both documents and photos.
Is wireless printing available?
Most printers listed offer wireless printing. This feature allows you to print from your smartphone or tablet easily. Check the specific model’s capabilities for details.
What should I consider for ink costs?
Look for printers with low-cost ink options. Some models offer ink subscription services that can save money long-term. Compare these costs before deciding.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is important when choosing a printer. Look for models that offer high resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI). A higher DPI means clearer text and better color prints. Aim for at least 600 DPI for sharp documents.
Speed
Print speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM). Look for models that can print at least 8-10 pages per minute for black and white documents. Faster speeds are helpful if you print large volumes regularly.
Durability
Consider how often you will use the printer. Some budget models may not last as long as premium ones. Look for user reviews about durability and reliability. A good warranty can also indicate a trustworthy product.
User Interface
A clear and easy-to-use interface will save you time. Look for printers with simple controls or touchscreens. This makes operation and setup easier, especially for first-time users.
Size and Portability
Size matters, especially in small spaces. Compact printers can fit on desks without taking up too much room. If you need to move the printer frequently, consider its weight and design for portability.
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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