Contents
- The Top 9
- Top 9 Printers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Most Versatile
- 3. Best Value
- 4. Best Heavy-Duty
- 5. Best Budget
- 6. Best Premium
- 7. Best for Small Spaces
- 8. Best for Beginners
- 9. Best Lightweight
- Printers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Printers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
If you are looking for the best printer with cheap ink, the HP DeskJet 2955 is your top pick. It offers an all-in-one solution, including printing, scanning, and copying. This printer also includes a 3-month trial of Instant Ink, allowing you to save on ink costs. For a more affordable option, consider the Canon PIXMA TS6520. It sacrifices some advanced features for a lower price but still provides vibrant prints and essential functions.
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The Top 9
Top 9 Printers Reviewed in Detail
Now, let’s take a closer look at the printers that stand out for their cost-effective ink solutions.
1. Editor’s Choice
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a reliable choice for anyone seeking the best printer with cheap ink. It offers a compact design and includes a 3-month trial for Instant Ink. This feature allows you to save on ink costs while enjoying all-in-one capabilities, including scanning and copying. Compared to other models, it stands out for its affordable ink usage and user-friendly setup. However, some users may find its print speed slower than higher-end models, making it less suitable for heavy printing tasks.
Pros
- Compact all-in-one design for printing, scanning, and copying
- 3-month trial of Instant Ink for cost savings
- Wireless printing capability for easy access from devices
Cons
- Slower print speed compared to some competitors
- Limited paper capacity may require frequent refills
Best for: Home users needing versatile printing. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty printing tasks requiring fast speeds.
An excellent choice for affordable home printing with added convenience.
2. Most Versatile
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 known for its vibrant print quality. It uses a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system, which allows for sharp text and bright colors. Compared to the HP DeskJet models, it offers better photo quality, making it a solid option for both home and hybrid work environments. However, the TS6520 may have higher ongoing ink costs, especially for users who print frequently. This model suits those who prioritize print quality over the lowest ink costs.
Pros
- Crisp and vibrant prints for documents and photos
- Compact design, making it suitable for small spaces
- Offers duplex printing for double-sided documents
Cons
- Ongoing ink costs can be higher than some competitors
- Fewer advanced features compared to higher-end models
Best for: Users needing a balance of quality and versatility. Not ideal for: Those prioritizing the lowest ink costs.
A great all-in-one option for quality printing at home.
3. Best Value
Canon PIXMA TS4320 – Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan
- Affordable Versatility – A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints – Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use – Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity – Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling – Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
- Save Time & Paper – Optimize your printing with automatic 2-sided printing, reducing paper consumption and speeding up your workflow
- Diverse Media Support – Print a wide range of documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”, with or without borders, for all your creative and professional needs
- Compact & Stylish – Designed to fit seamlessly into any workspace, its small footprint complements your environment without sacrificing functionality
- Convenient Mobile Printing2 – Print directly from your smartphone or tablet with popular services like the Canon PRINT App, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service
- Eco-Conscious Choice – This printer is EPEAT Silver and ENERGY STAR certified, helping you reduce your environmental footprint
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a budget-friendly printer that provides excellent value. It shares many features with the TS6520 but comes at a lower price point. The print quality remains impressive, making it suitable for everyday documents and photos. This model has a compact design, which is great for limited spaces. However, it lacks some advanced features, like duplex printing, that users may miss. Overall, it suits casual users looking for an affordable and reliable option.
Pros
- Affordable all-in-one functions for printing, scanning, and copying
- Great print quality for documents and photos
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
Cons
- No duplex printing feature for double-sided pages
- May not have as many advanced settings as competitors
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic functions. Not ideal for: Heavy users requiring advanced features.
An affordable choice that meets most basic printing needs.
4. Best Heavy-Duty
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 designed for home and small office use. It excels in providing reliable printing, copying, and scanning. The compact design makes it easy to fit into tight spaces while still delivering quality results. When compared to other models, it stands out for its easy cloud app connections, making it more versatile. However, it may have a higher upfront cost compared to budget models, which could deter some buyers. This printer is best for users who need consistent performance without sacrificing quality.
Pros
- Compact design suitable for home and small office
- Easy to use with cloud app connections
- Reliable performance for everyday printing tasks
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic models
- Limited features compared to all-in-one printers
Best for: Users needing a reliable multi-function printer. Not ideal for: Those on a very tight budget.
A dependable choice for those who print regularly.
5. Best Budget
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 offers an innovative ink tank system designed for low-cost printing. It comes with enough ink for up to three years, which is a remarkable feature. This printer is ideal for users who need to print in high volumes without frequent trips to the store for ink. Although it has a higher initial investment, the savings on ink can be significant over time. However, it may not be as compact as other models, making it less suitable for small spaces.
Pros
- Cartridge-free ink tank system for low-cost printing
- Includes up to 3 years of ink for massive savings
- Versatile all-in-one features for home use
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in tiny spaces
- Higher upfront cost compared to standard printers
Best for: High-volume users needing low ink costs. Not ideal for: Limited spaces and small prints.
An excellent investment for users needing to print a lot without high costs.
6. Best Premium
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 unique offering with its ink tank system, allowing for impressive page yields. This printer can produce up to 6,000 black and white pages and 7,700 color pages with its initial ink set. Compared to traditional cartridge systems, this makes it a standout choice for cost-conscious users. However, it lacks some features like automatic duplex printing, which could be a downside for those who need that capability. Overall, it is an excellent choice for high-volume printing.
Pros
- Impressive ink yield with low printing costs
- All-in-one functionality for various needs
- Easy wireless printing and scanning capabilities
Cons
- No automatic duplex printing feature
- Larger footprint may not suit small spaces
Best for: Users needing high-volume printing at low costs. Not ideal for: Those wanting more advanced features.
A strong choice for users focused on low-cost, high-volume printing.
7. Best for Small Spaces
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 a compact all-in-one printer designed for everyday tasks. It features a simple setup, making it user-friendly. This model also includes mobile printing capabilities, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone. While it is ideal for basic printing, it may struggle with high-volume tasks. Users looking for advanced features may also find it lacking. This printer is best for casual users who need a dependable machine for light printing.
Pros
- Compact design ideal for smaller spaces
- Includes mobile printing capabilities
- 3-month trial of Instant Ink for savings
Cons
- Not designed for high-volume printing
- Limited features compared to higher-end models
Best for: Casual users needing light printing. Not ideal for: Heavy users requiring advanced features.
A simple, compact choice for everyday printing tasks.
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 a high-performance printer aimed at home offices. It features fast print speeds and advanced capabilities like automatic duplex printing. This model is ideal for users needing professional-quality prints for business documents. Compared to other models, it stands out for its reliability and speed. However, it may come with higher upfront costs, which could be a barrier for some users. This printer suits those who prioritize speed and quality in their printing tasks.
Pros
- Fast print speeds for efficient office tasks
- Automatic duplex printing for saving paper
- 3-month trial of Instant Ink included
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to budget models
- May be too advanced for casual users
Best for: Home office users needing fast, professional prints. Not ideal for: Occasional users who print infrequently.
A fast and reliable option for home offices.
9. Best Lightweight
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
- BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and delivers high-quality black & white prints
- FAST PRINTER WITH EFFICIENT SCANNING – Produces documents quickly with print speeds up to 36 ppm(2) and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm(3) (black/color). A 50-page auto document feeder(4) allows for convenient, time saving multi-page scanning and copying
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTION OPTIONS – Easily navigate the changing demands of your business with secure multi-device connectivity via built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Ethernet. Or connect locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Print, scan, and manage your wireless printer anytime, from almost anywhere from your mobile device. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(5)
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(6) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome printer that excels in productivity. It offers printing, scanning, and copying functionalities in one machine. This printer is particularly well-suited for small businesses needing efficient black and white documents. However, it does not support color printing, which limits its utility for users needing vibrant printouts. Overall, it’s a solid choice for businesses focused on productivity and cost-effectiveness.
Pros
- Compact design for small office spaces
- Fast printing for increased productivity
- Monochrome functionality for everyday business needs
Cons
- Only prints in black and white
- Limited features compared to all-in-one color printers
Best for: Small businesses needing efficient monochrome printing. Not ideal for: Users requiring color printing.
A reliable monochrome printer for efficient business tasks.
Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the key features of each printer. You’ll find details like brand, model, and specific capabilities. This will help you see which is the best printer with cheap ink for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Editor's Choice | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer | Most Versatile | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best Value | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Best Heavy-Duty | 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 Premium | 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 for Beginners | HP | $109.99 | Check |
| 9 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | Best Lightweight | 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, including manufacturer websites and customer reviews. This helped us get a clear picture of printer specifications and user experiences. We looked at over 30 different printers in the market.
How we built this shortlist
To build our shortlist, we focused on printers with affordable ink options. We filtered out models with poor reviews and high ink costs. We aimed for models that provided the best balance between features and value.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out printers that had expensive replacement ink cartridges or low customer satisfaction. Models that did not include essential functions like scanning and copying were also excluded. This helped us concentrate on versatile machines.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand in this review. We didn’t take any lab measurements or create scores based on personal use. All findings are based on available data and online reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page is regularly updated to reflect the latest product information. We check for new models and any changes in pricing or availability every few months. This ensures you have the most current data when making a decision.
How to Choose Printers
Ink Cost Per Page
Evaluate the ink cost per page to determine long-term expenses. Look for printers with a low ink cost, ideally under 5 cents per page for black and white prints. This helps you save money over time.
Print Speed
Check the print speed, measured in pages per minute (ppm). For home use, a speed of around 10-15 ppm is ideal for everyday tasks. Faster speeds are better for busy households or offices.
All-in-One Features
Consider whether you need all-in-one features like scanning and copying. If so, choose a printer that includes these functions for added convenience. This can save space and money compared to buying separate devices.
Wireless Connectivity
Look for wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This allows you to print from smartphones and tablets without needing a cable. It’s convenient for modern households where devices vary.
Size and Weight
Consider the size and weight of the printer, especially if space is limited. Compact models are ideal for small offices or homes. Make sure it fits your designated space without crowding other equipment.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is essential for both documents and photos. Look for printers with high DPI (dots per inch) ratings. A rating of at least 4800 x 1200 DPI is ideal for vibrant color images and sharp text.
Ease of Use
Choose a printer that is user-friendly. Look for models with easy setup and clear control panels. A printer with a simple mobile app can also make printing from your device easier.
Brand Reputation
Consider brands known for reliability and customer support. Well-established brands often have better warranties and customer service. Research customer feedback to gauge overall satisfaction with the brand.
Maintenance and Support
Look for printers that require minimal maintenance. Check if the brand offers good support for troubleshooting and repairs. This can save you time and hassle in the long run.
Environmentally Friendly Options
Consider printers that offer eco-friendly ink options or recycling programs. This is important if you’re concerned about environmental impact. Brands that focus on sustainability may also offer lower ink costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printer with cheap ink?
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a top choice for the best printer with cheap ink, offering low-cost printing and versatile features.
How do I know if a printer has cheap ink?
Check the ink cartridge costs and the estimated page yield. Lower costs per page indicate cheaper ink.
Can I use third-party ink cartridges?
Many printers allow third-party cartridges, which can save money. However, check the printer’s warranty guidelines.
What is Instant Ink?
Instant Ink is a subscription service that automatically sends ink when you’re running low. It can save you money on ink.
Are all-in-one printers worth it?
All-in-one printers are often worth it for their versatility. They combine printing, scanning, and copying in one device.
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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