In today’s world, a reliable color printer is essential, whether for home office needs or occasional personal projects. However, finding a printer that balances quality and affordability can be a challenge.
Many budget-friendly options promise impressive results but often fall short on performance or longevity. Thatβs why carefully selecting the best cheapest color printer is crucial.
This article aims to guide you through the often-overwhelming landscape of inexpensive color printers. We understand that value is paramount, but compromising on print quality or overall reliability is not an option.
Our focus is on identifying the best cheapest color printer that delivers the most bang for your buck, ensuring you get a dependable device without breaking the bank.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Cheapest Color Printer Compared
π BEST OVERALL HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces.
- Includes color printing, copying, and scanning functions.
- HP app allows for convenient printing from smartphones.
- Made with at least 60% recycled plastics.
4.5/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Automatic 2-sided printing and auto document feeder save time and paper.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi provides reliable wireless connectivity.
- HP app allows for convenient mobile printing and scanning.
- Includes 6 months of ink with HP+ subscription.
4.4/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM Output
- Fast print speeds up to 19 PPM.
- Wireless connectivity for easy mobile printing.
- 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills.
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper.
4.7/5
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Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-
- All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan)
- Cloud connectivity to popular services
- Automatic duplex printing and ADF for increased productivity
- Wireless and USB connectivity options
4.8/5
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Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer with Mobile and Tablet Printing
- Wireless mobile printing and scanning.
- Auto 2-sided printing.
- Compact, space-saving design.
- Alexa integration for ink monitoring and reordering.
4.5/5
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HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Wireless connectivity with reliable Wi-Fi.
- All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan).
- Includes automatic document feeder (ADF).
4.3/5
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HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
- Fast print speeds (up to 26 ppm black/color)
- Automatic 2-sided printing
- Automatic document feeder
- Professional-quality color documents
4.6/5
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Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- Compact and stylish design.
- Versatile printing, copying, and scanning functions.
- Flexible paper handling with front and rear trays.
- Good print quality with 4800 DPI resolution.
4.4/5
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Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Laser Quality Output
- Compact design suitable for small spaces.
- Laser-quality color prints.
- Fast print speeds up to 27 ppm.
- Automatic duplex printing for efficient paper use.
4.6/5
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Brother Color Laser Printer All-in-One with Scanner
- Good print quality suitable for professional documents.
- Versatile connectivity options (Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB).
- Automatic document feeder and duplex printing increase productivity.
- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable shortcuts.
4.4/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Cheapest Color Printer
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer – Compact design fits easily in small spaces.
The HP DeskJet 2855e is a basic all-in-one printer suitable for light home use. It offers color printing, copying, and scanning capabilities. The single-band Wi-Fi connectivity aims for reliability, and the HP app provides convenient control from a smartphone.
The printer’s compact design makes it easy to place in smaller spaces, and the inclusion of 3 months of HP+ ink is a nice bonus. The control panel with an ICON LCD is easy to understand. The use of recycled plastics and ENERGY STAR/EPEAT certification are positives for environmentally conscious buyers.
However, print speeds are on the slower side, and the printer is restricted to using only HP cartridges, potentially limiting cost-saving options. Buyers should also be aware of the single-band Wi-Fi limitation, as it might not be compatible with all network configurations.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces.
- Includes color printing, copying, and scanning functions.
- HP app allows for convenient printing from smartphones.
- Made with at least 60% recycled plastics.
- ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified.
Cons
- Limited to using only HP cartridges.
- Single-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz only) may not be compatible with all networks.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer – Automatic 2-sided printing and auto document feeder save time and paper.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e is marketed as a suitable printer for home offices needing quality color documents. It offers features such as automatic two-sided printing, a 225-sheet input tray, and an auto document feeder, adding convenience for various tasks. Wireless connectivity is facilitated by dual-band Wi-Fi, aiming to provide a stable connection.
The HP app enables printing, scanning, copying, and faxing from mobile devices. A notable incentive is the inclusion of 6 months of ink through HP+, but users should be aware of the subscription fees after the trial period. The 2.7-inch touchscreen provides a user-friendly interface.
HP Wolf Essential Security aims to safeguard your network. The printer’s construction incorporates over 45% recycled plastic, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Finally, note that this printer primarily works with HP cartridges and may block third party alternatives.
Pros
- Automatic 2-sided printing and auto document feeder save time and paper.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi provides reliable wireless connectivity.
- HP app allows for convenient mobile printing and scanning.
- Includes 6 months of ink with HP+ subscription.
- User-friendly 2.7-inch touchscreen.
- Built with over 45% recycled plastic.
Cons
- Requires HP+ subscription for full functionality and continuous ink supply; costs apply after initial 6 months.
- Only works with HP cartridges, potentially increasing long-term running costs.
Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM Output – Fast print speeds up to 19 PPM.
The Brother color laser printer appears to be a solid option for home offices or small businesses needing reliable color printing. It boasts a print speed of 19 pages per minute, which is adequate for most general office tasks. Wireless connectivity is a plus, allowing for convenient printing from various devices.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a decent size, reducing the frequency of refills. Automatic duplex printing is a welcomed feature for saving paper. The printer also has mobile integration allowing for printing from different devices.
While the features are appealing, potential buyers should consider the cost of laser toner cartridges, as they can be expensive.
Pros
- Fast print speeds up to 19 PPM.
- Wireless connectivity for easy mobile printing.
- 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills.
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper.
- Mobile printing capability.
Cons
- Laser toner cartridges can be expensive to replace.
Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All- – All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan)
The Brother all-in-one inkjet printer is designed for home and home office use, offering printing, copying, and scanning functionalities in a compact design. It features cloud connectivity for easy printing and scanning to services like Google Drive and Dropbox, accessible through a 1.8″ color display. Productivity features include automatic duplex printing, a 20-sheet ADF, and a 150-sheet paper tray.
Print speeds are rated at up to 16 ppm for black and 9 ppm for color. Connectivity options include wireless and USB. The Brother Mobile Connect app enables mobile printing, scanning, and device management, including ink monitoring with Page Gauge.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan)
- Cloud connectivity to popular services
- Automatic duplex printing and ADF for increased productivity
- Wireless and USB connectivity options
- Mobile app for convenient control and monitoring
Cons
- Relatively small 1.8″ color display
- Print speeds might be slow for high-volume printing
Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer with Mobile and Tablet Printing – Wireless mobile printing and scanning.
This wireless 3-in-1 printer offers standard functionality for home and small office use. It supports printing, copying, and scanning directly from mobile devices, which is convenient. The print speed is adequate for moderate use, with 9.9 ipm for black and white and 5.7 ipm for color.
The 100-sheet capacity is sufficient for most daily tasks, and the auto 2-sided printing feature is a nice addition for saving paper. The compact design helps save space. The Alexa integration for ink level monitoring and smart reorders is a potentially useful feature, especially for those who frequently forget to check ink levels.
Being ENERGY STAR certified is also a plus. However, the print speeds might be slow for users with higher volume printing needs.
Pros
- Wireless mobile printing and scanning.
- Auto 2-sided printing.
- Compact, space-saving design.
- Alexa integration for ink monitoring and reordering.
- ENERGY STAR certified.
Cons
- Moderate print speed.
- 100-sheet capacity might be limited for some users.
HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer – Compact and space-saving design.
The HP DeskJet 4255e is a compact all-in-one printer suitable for basic home use. It offers printing, copying, and scanning functionalities, along with an automatic document feeder. The wireless connectivity is reliable, and the HP app provides convenient control from smartphones.
Print speeds are adequate for occasional use, but not ideal for high-volume printing. The inclusion of 3 months of Instant Ink with HP+ is a nice bonus, though a subscription is required afterward. The printer’s eco-friendly design, incorporating recycled plastic and energy-saving certifications, is a plus.
The ICON LCD provides basic control. The restriction to HP cartridges could be a drawback for some users.
Pros
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Wireless connectivity with reliable Wi-Fi.
- All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan).
- Includes automatic document feeder (ADF).
- 3 months of Instant Ink included with HP+ activation.
- Eco-friendly design with recycled plastic and energy certifications.
Cons
- Relatively slow print speeds.
- Restricted to HP cartridges.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer – Fast print speeds (up to 26 ppm black/color)
The HP color printer appears to be a solid option for small teams needing to print, scan, and copy. With print speeds of up to 26 ppm for both black and color, it should handle most office tasks efficiently. The TerraJet toner aims to produce vivid colors, potentially improving the quality of printed documents.
It offers auto 2-sided printing and an auto document feeder, which are convenient features. The 250-sheet input tray is adequate for standard use. However, the printer’s restriction to only using cartridges with HP chips is a significant consideration for budget-conscious users.
The reliance on HP cartridges could increase running costs. Overall, it seems like a capable printer, but the cartridge limitations warrant careful consideration.
Pros
- Fast print speeds (up to 26 ppm black/color)
- Automatic 2-sided printing
- Automatic document feeder
- Professional-quality color documents
- 250-sheet input tray
Cons
- Only works with cartridges containing HP chips or circuitry, potentially increasing running costs.
Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Compact and stylish design.
The Canon PIXMA TR7020a is a compact and versatile all-in-one inkjet printer suitable for home and small office use. It offers print, copy, and scan functionality with both USB and Wi-Fi connectivity. The printer features a user-friendly 1.44″ display for easy navigation and setup.
Its flexible paper feeding options, including front and rear trays, are convenient for different media types. The print quality is good, especially for documents and photos, thanks to its 4800 DPI resolution. The printer also supports automatic double-sided printing, which is a plus for saving paper.
The PIXMA Print Plan ink subscription service is a convenient option for hassle-free ink replacement.
Pros
- Compact and stylish design.
- Versatile printing, copying, and scanning functions.
- Flexible paper handling with front and rear trays.
- Good print quality with 4800 DPI resolution.
- Supports automatic duplex printing.
- Compatible with Canon PIXMA Print Plan.
Cons
- The 1.44″ display is small.
- Potential interruption to ink delivery if internet connection fails while using PIXMA Print Plan
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Laser Quality Output – Compact design suitable for small spaces.
The Brother HL-L3280CDW is a compact color laser printer geared towards home and small office users. It emphasizes laser-quality prints and boasts print speeds up to 27 pages per minute. Automatic duplex printing is a welcome addition, promoting efficient paper usage.
The integrated 2.7-inch touchscreen provides direct access to cloud-based printing from services like Google Drive and Dropbox, which can be quite convenient for those reliant on cloud storage. While it seems well-suited for its target audience, potential buyers should consider its limitations relative to larger, more feature-rich office printers. Overall, it appears to offer a solid balance of features and size for its intended purpose.
Pros
- Compact design suitable for small spaces.
- Laser-quality color prints.
- Fast print speeds up to 27 ppm.
- Automatic duplex printing for efficient paper use.
- Cloud printing via integrated touchscreen.
Cons
- May not be suitable for high-volume printing needs.
- 2.7-inch screen might be small for some users.
Brother Color Laser Printer All-in-One with Scanner – Good print quality suitable for professional documents.
The Brother color laser printer offers a solid set of features for small to medium-sized businesses. Print speeds are decent at up to 19 ppm, and the laser-quality output is suitable for professional documents. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB, catering to various user needs.
The inclusion of a 50-sheet auto document feeder, a 250-sheet paper tray, and automatic duplex printing enhances productivity. The 3.5″ color touchscreen with customizable shortcuts and cloud service integration is a convenient addition. Mobile printing capabilities and toner level monitoring via the companion app are also valuable.
Overall, it seems like a well-rounded printer suitable for office environments that need reliable printing capabilities.
Pros
- Good print quality suitable for professional documents.
- Versatile connectivity options (Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB).
- Automatic document feeder and duplex printing increase productivity.
- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable shortcuts.
- Mobile printing support and toner level monitoring via app.
Cons
- Print speed, while decent, might not be sufficient for very high-volume printing.
- Initial setup and connecting to cloud services might require some technical know-how.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Cheapest Color Printer
Understanding Your Printing Needs
Before diving into the market for the best cheapest color printer, consider your typical printing volume, the types of documents you’ll be printing (text, graphics, photos), and the importance of features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing. Identify if you need all-in-one functionalities (printing, scanning, copying) or just basic printing. This assessment will help you narrow down your options and avoid paying for features you won’t use. Also, consider the long-term cost of ink or toner, which can significantly impact the overall affordability of the best cheapest color printer.
Inkjet vs. Laser: Which is Right for You?
Inkjet printers are generally more affordable upfront, making them attractive as the best cheapest color printer option. They excel at printing photos and documents with vibrant colors. However, laser printers, while initially more expensive, often offer a lower cost per page due to their efficient toner usage. Laser printers are ideal for high-volume text printing and are known for their speed and durability. Choose the technology that aligns with your primary printing needs and budget.
Key Features to Consider
Several features can enhance the user experience and efficiency of a best cheapest color printer. Wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money. An automatic document feeder (ADF) streamlines scanning and copying multi-page documents. Consider the paper tray capacity to minimize refills. Finally, investigate the availability of mobile apps for convenient control and monitoring.
Long-Term Costs: Ink/Toner and Maintenance
While the initial price is important, don’t overlook the long-term costs associated with owning a best cheapest color printer. Inkjet printers often have higher ink costs, while laser printers have higher toner costs. Research the price and yield of replacement cartridges for the models you’re considering. Also, factor in potential maintenance costs, such as printhead cleaning or drum replacement. Consider subscription services like HP Instant Ink, which can offer significant savings on ink.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cheapest Color Printer
What are the main differences between inkjet and laser printers?
Inkjet printers use liquid ink sprayed onto paper, making them ideal for photos and documents with vibrant colors. They tend to be cheaper initially, but ink cartridges can be expensive. Laser printers use toner powder fused onto paper, resulting in sharp text and faster print speeds. While the initial cost is higher, toner cartridges generally last longer, offering a lower cost per page for high-volume text printing. Selecting the best cheapest color printer hinges on your specific needs.
How important is print resolution (DPI)?
Print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines the sharpness and detail of printed images and text. Higher DPI values result in finer details and smoother gradients. For general document printing, a DPI of 600 x 600 is usually sufficient. However, for printing high-quality photos, a DPI of 4800 x 1200 or higher is recommended. When selecting the best cheapest color printer, consider the type of media you’ll primarily be printing and choose a printer with an appropriate DPI for your needs.
What is duplex printing, and why is it beneficial?
Duplex printing refers to the ability of a printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper. This feature saves paper, reduces printing costs, and is environmentally friendly. Automatic duplex printing is especially useful for printing documents with multiple pages, such as reports, presentations, and manuals. When searching for the best cheapest color printer, consider duplex printing to lower your operational costs.
What is an automatic document feeder (ADF), and when do I need it?
An automatic document feeder (ADF) is a feature that allows you to automatically feed multiple pages into the scanner or copier, streamlining the process of scanning or copying multi-page documents. An ADF is particularly useful if you frequently scan or copy large documents. If you only occasionally scan or copy, an ADF may not be necessary. Determining if the best cheapest color printer must have an ADF is based on frequency of use.
How does wireless connectivity enhance printer usability?
Wireless connectivity allows you to print from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, without needing a physical cable connection. This feature provides flexibility and convenience, especially in homes or offices with multiple users and devices. Many wireless printers also support mobile printing apps, enabling you to print directly from your mobile devices. Wireless connectivity is a crucial feature for the best cheapest color printer.
What are the key factors to consider when evaluating the long-term cost of a printer?
The long-term cost of a printer goes beyond the initial purchase price. Factors to consider include the cost of ink or toner cartridges, the yield (number of pages printed per cartridge), and the frequency of replacements. Also, factor in potential maintenance costs, such as printhead cleaning or drum replacement. Compare the cost per page of different printers to determine the most economical option. Finding the best cheapest color printer also means looking at long-term costs.
How do cloud printing capabilities work?
Cloud printing allows you to print documents from anywhere with an internet connection. You can upload documents to a cloud service (such as Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint) and then print them from any compatible printer. This feature is particularly useful for remote workers or individuals who need to print documents while traveling. Cloud printing is a bonus feature to consider when looking for the best cheapest color printer.
What are the environmental considerations when choosing a printer?
Consider the energy efficiency of the printer, as indicated by ENERGY STAR certification. Look for printers made with recycled materials and those that offer duplex printing to save paper. Also, explore ink or toner recycling programs offered by the manufacturer. Choosing an eco-friendly printer reduces your environmental impact. Many models that are the best cheapest color printer are also mindful of the environment.
What is the role of mobile apps in printer management?
Mobile apps provide convenient control and monitoring of your printer. These apps allow you to print documents and photos directly from your smartphone or tablet, check ink or toner levels, troubleshoot issues, and even order replacement cartridges. Mobile apps simplify printer management and enhance the overall user experience. Many choices for the best cheapest color printer offer mobile app support.
How do I choose between a standard printer and an all-in-one printer?
A standard printer only performs printing functions, while an all-in-one printer combines printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities. If you only need to print documents occasionally, a standard printer may suffice. However, if you frequently scan, copy, or fax, an all-in-one printer offers greater convenience and value. Consider your specific needs and usage patterns when making your decision.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer is a decent, eco-friendly option for basic home printing needs. However, potential buyers should consider the limitations regarding cartridge usage and Wi-Fi connectivity before purchasing. I would recommend this printer for those with light printing needs and who are already invested in the HP ecosystem.
