Contents
Finding the cheapest printer is a challenge for many buyers. The HP DeskJet 2955 is our top pick due to its all-in-one capability. It functions as a printer, scanner, and copier, making it versatile for home use. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 serves as our value choice, but it sacrifices some print speed and size for a lower cost.
Most buyers must choose between multifunction options like the HP DeskJet 2955 and more compact models like the Canon PIXMA TS4320. This page will provide you with details about each printer, so you can find the best fit for your printing needs.
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The Top 9
Top 9 Printers Reviewed in Detail
We have reviewed several printers to help you find the best option.
1. Top Pick
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a wireless all-in-one color inkjet printer. It can print, scan, and copy. It is lightweight at 10.450 lbs. This printer is great for home use, especially for families. It also comes with a 3-month trial of Instant Ink, which can help you save on costs.
Pros
Affordable price for a multifunction printer. Easy setup and connectivity. Compact design saves space. Instant Ink trial helps reduce ink costs.
Cons
May not handle high-volume printing well. Lacks advanced features compared to other models. Limited print speed for large documents.
Best for families or students needing everyday printing. Great for light use at home. Suitable for those on a budget.
The HP DeskJet 2955 offers solid performance for basic home needs. It is an excellent entry-level option.
2. Best Heavy-Duty
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 compact and versatile printer. It provides impressive print quality with crisp text and vibrant colors. The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system enhances print results. It is ideal for home users and those working from home.
Pros
Excellent print quality for documents and photos. Compact design fits easily in small spaces. Wireless connectivity for easy printing from devices.
Cons
Ink cartridges may need frequent replacement. Limited paper capacity might slow down larger tasks. Slower print speed compared to other models.
Ideal for home users and hybrid workers. Great for those who need to print photos and documents. Suitable for light to moderate use.
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 combines quality with affordability. It meets the needs of everyday users well.
3. Best for Small Spaces
Canon PIXMA TS4320 – Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan
- Affordable Versatility – A budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for both home users and hybrid workers, offering exceptional value
- Crisp, Vibrant Prints – Experience impressive print quality for both documents and photos, thanks to its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that delivers sharp text and vivid colors
- Effortless Setup & Use – Get started quickly with easy setup for your smartphone or computer, so you can print, scan, and copy without delay
- Reliable Wireless Connectivity – Enjoy stable and consistent connections with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), ensuring smooth printing from anywhere in your home or office
- Scan & Copy Handling – Utilize the device’s integrated scanner for efficient scanning and copying operations
- Save Time & Paper – Optimize your printing with automatic 2-sided printing, reducing paper consumption and speeding up your workflow
- Diverse Media Support – Print a wide range of documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”, with or without borders, for all your creative and professional needs
- Compact & Stylish – Designed to fit seamlessly into any workspace, its small footprint complements your environment without sacrificing functionality
- Convenient Mobile Printing2 – Print directly from your smartphone or tablet with popular services like the Canon PRINT App, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service
- Eco-Conscious Choice – This printer is EPEAT Silver and ENERGY STAR certified, helping you reduce your environmental footprint
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is another great option from Canon. This printer offers print, copy, and scan features. Its hybrid ink system ensures vibrant prints. Its compact size allows it to fit anywhere in your home.
Pros
Affordable and versatile for home use. Good print quality for both text and images. Easy to set up and use.
Cons
Limited features compared to higher-end models. Ink may be expensive over time. Print speed may not satisfy heavy users.
Perfect for occasional printing needs. Students and families will find it useful. Good choice for those on a budget.
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a reliable printer for home use. It offers value without sacrificing quality.
4. Best Value
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 home office tasks. It prints, copies, and scans efficiently. Its compact design is perfect for small spaces. Users will appreciate the wireless capabilities.
Pros
Great for everyday home office tasks. Easy to connect with cloud apps. Produces quality prints and scans.
Cons
Not as fast as some competitors. May struggle with high-volume printing. Lacks advanced features.
Best for home offices and students. Suitable for light to moderate printing tasks. Great for those who need a compact solution.
The Brother Work Smart 1360 is efficient and easy to use. It meets basic printing needs without fuss.
5. Best Splurge
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 cartridge-free printer. It comes with up to 3 years of ink included. This one is designed for high-volume printing. Users will appreciate the easy setup and maintenance.
Pros
Cartridge-free design saves money long-term. High-volume printing capability. Low maintenance and easy to use.
Cons
Initial investment may be higher. May be overkill for light users. Limited features compared to some all-in-one models.
Best for users with high printing needs. Ideal for small businesses or busy families. Suitable for those who want long-term savings.
The HP Smart Tank 5003 offers excellent value for heavy users. It is a smart choice for frequent printing.
6. Runner-Up
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 an all-in-one printer with wireless features. It includes up to 2 years of ink. Users can print thousands of pages with one set of inks. It is ideal for those looking to save on ink costs.
Pros
High ink capacity leads to significant savings. Wireless connectivity allows for easy printing. Compact design fits well in any space.
Cons
Limited print speed may disappoint some users. Initial setup might be complex. Only supports single-sided printing.
Perfect for families and small businesses. Great for users who print frequently. Suitable for those seeking low long-term costs.
The Canon MegaTank G3270 is a cost-effective solution for heavy users. It offers great savings and quality.
7. Best Premium
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 multifunction color inkjet printer. It prints, copies, and scans with ease. Its compact design makes it suitable for home use. This printer supports mobile and wireless printing.
Pros
Affordable color printing for everyday documents. Easy to set up and operate. Compact size saves space in your home.
Cons
Not suitable for high-volume printing. Print speed may be slower than competitors. Limited features for advanced users.
Best for families needing everyday color printing. Suitable for light use and small spaces. Great for budget-conscious buyers.
The HP DeskJet 4355 provides good value for basic tasks. It is a solid choice for families.
8. Best Compact
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 aimed at home office users. It prints, scans, and copies with professional quality. The print speeds are impressive, making it efficient for larger jobs. It also includes a 3-month trial of Instant Ink.
Pros
Fast printing speeds for documents. High-quality color outputs. Easy to use with reliable performance.
Cons
Initial cost may be higher than some options. Not the best choice for casual users. Some features may be unnecessary for light users.
Best for home office with significant printing needs. Ideal for professionals needing quick outputs. Suitable for users who print frequently.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 is a strong contender for home offices. It balances speed and quality well.
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. It combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device. It excels in producing black and white prints quickly. This one is designed for small businesses.
Pros
Fast print speeds for black and white documents. Compact design fits well in small spaces. Multifunction capabilities add convenience.
Cons
Only prints in black and white. May not suit those needing color printing. Limited features for advanced tasks.
Best for small businesses focused on productivity. Great for users who need quick black and white printing. Suitable for light to moderate use.
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is efficient for business tasks. It is a reliable choice for monochrome printing.
Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of each printer. You can see specifications such as print speed, functions, and weight. This will help you decide which is the cheapest printer for your needs.
| # | 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 Heavy-Duty | Canon | $79 | Check |
| 3 | Canon PIXMA TS4320 | Best for Small Spaces | Canon | $69 | Check |
| 4 | Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One… | Best Value | Brother | $99.98 | Check |
| 5 | HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer | Best Splurge | HP | $189.99 | Check |
| 6 | Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer | Runner-Up | Canon | $159 | Check |
| 7 | HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Premium | HP | $69.99 | Check |
| 8 | HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet… | Best Compact | 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 information from credible sources like manufacturer websites, user reviews, and tech sites. Analyzing over 30 printers in the category gave us a solid foundation to work from. We focused on features important to budget-conscious buyers.
How we built this shortlist
From our data set, we filtered for all-in-one printers that are affordable and suitable for home use. We focused on models with good user ratings and practical functionalities. This process led us to our final picks that represent value and reliability.
What we ruled out and why
Models that did not meet a minimum rating threshold of 4 stars were excluded. We also removed outdated models that lacked modern features. This way, we ensured only the best options are represented.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted. This review is based purely on research and analysis of existing data. We did not perform any lab measurements or create scores for the printers.
How often this page is updated
We review and update this page quarterly to reflect any changes in product availability. New models and features are added as they become available. This ensures you always get the latest information.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is essential when choosing a printer. Look for models with good reviews on color accuracy and sharpness. A higher resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), generally means better print quality. For home use, aim for at least 600 DPI for color and 1200 DPI for black and white.
Ink Costs
Ink costs can add up quickly. Look for printers that use affordable ink cartridges or have refillable tanks. Some models come with a trial of ink, which can help you save initially. Consider how many pages you can print with a single cartridge for better cost management.
Speed and Efficiency
Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is another important factor. For home use, a printer with a speed of 10-20 PPM is usually sufficient. If you print in bulk, faster models can save you time and increase productivity.
Connectivity Options
Modern printers offer various connectivity options. Look for models with wireless capabilities, allowing you to print from your phone or tablet. USB connections are standard, but some printers also support cloud printing. Choose a printer that suits your tech needs.
Size and Design
Consider the size and design of the printer. Compact models may fit better in small spaces, while all-in-one printers require more room. Ensure you have the space for the printer you choose. Check dimensions and weight if portability is important.
How to Choose Printers
Choosing an All-in-One Printer
All-in-one printers can print, scan, and copy. Look for models that offer these features while staying budget-friendly. Check that it has a good print speed and quality for your needs. A good all-in-one printer can save you space and money.
Understanding Print Speed
Print speed is important, especially if you print many documents. Look for printers that offer at least 10 PPM for decent performance. Faster printers can help manage your workload better, so consider how often you will use it.
Evaluating Print Quality
Print quality is measured in DPI. For documents, 600 DPI is decent. For photos, aim for 1200 DPI or higher. Check user reviews for feedback on print clarity and color accuracy to ensure you get a printer that meets your expectations.
Considering Ink Costs
Ink costs can vary widely. Some printers offer lower upfront costs but expensive ink. Look for printers that use affordable cartridges or offer savings programs. Factor in long-term costs when making a decision, not just the price of the printer.
Assessing Connectivity Options
Modern printers often have multiple connectivity options. Look for wireless printing capabilities if you want to print from your phone or tablet. Some printers also allow cloud printing for added convenience. Choose one that fits your tech lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest printer available?
The cheapest printer is often an all-in-one model that balances purchase price and ink costs. Look for basic features and reliable performance to get good value.
Are all-in-one printers worth it?
Yes, all-in-one printers can save space and money. They provide printing, scanning, and copying in one device. This makes them a practical choice for home users.
How do I reduce ink costs?
To reduce ink costs, consider printers that use refillable tanks or cost-effective cartridges. Regularly check for discounts on ink and consider subscription services offered by brands.
Can I print from my phone?
Yes, many modern printers offer wireless connectivity. You can print from your phone or tablet using apps provided by printer brands. Ensure the model you choose supports this feature.
What should I look for in a budget printer?
Look for a printer that offers essential features like decent print quality and speed. Assess ink costs and ensure it has the connectivity options you need. Reading user reviews can also help you choose wisely.
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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