For Mac users, finding the right printer can significantly impact workflow and productivity. While color printing has its place, a dedicated black and white printer remains essential for sharp, professional documents, efficient printing of text-heavy materials, and overall value.
But navigating the market for the best black and white printers for Mac can be overwhelming. With varying specifications, features, and price points, choosing the optimal device requires careful consideration.
This review article aims to simplify that process. We understand the importance of quality and reliability in printing, especially within the Apple ecosystem.
We’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting the best black and white printers for Mac, ensuring you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and budget.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 5 Black And White Printers For Mac Compared
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces.
- Fast print speed for efficient black and white.
- Mobile printing via smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- Energy efficient with low power consumption.
4.2/5
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Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing
- High resolution for sharp text and images.
- Compact size fits home or office use.
- Good paper capacity handles most print jobs.
- Wireless connectivity for easy mobile printing.
4.2/5
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Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer [Print
- High-resolution printing for crisp, clear documents.
- Versatile media handling, including envelopes and photo paper.
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money.
- Integrated scanner and copier for home office needs.
3.9/5
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HP Laserjet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer
- Fast printing at 28 ppm for efficiency
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money
- Compact size fits small office or home use
- Mobile printing via app for easy control
4.3/5
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HP LaserJet M209dw Wireless Black & White Printer
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money.
- Compact size fits easily in office spaces.
- High-resolution printing ensures clear, crisp documents.
- Wireless connectivity enables convenient mobile printing.
4.2/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Black And White Printers For Mac
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer – Compact size fits easily in small spaces.
My take on the HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Printer reveals several compelling features. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for those with limited space, fitting seamlessly into small work areas or home offices without clutter. This ensures it can be easily integrated into any environment, providing functionality without compromising space.
The printer boasts effortless setup and wireless connectivity, allowing for quick and easy connection to various devices, including smartphones. This feature enables convenient printing from mobile devices, providing flexibility and mobility for on-the-go printing needs. No longer are you tied to a computer to get your documents printed.
One of the most notable advantages of the HP LaserJet M110w is its longevity and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional inkjet printers that require frequent ink replacements, this laser printer offers extended use with its durable toner. This results in fewer refills and reduced maintenance, making it a reliable and economical choice for long-term use.
Overall, the HP LaserJet M110w is a standout product offering exceptional performance, convenience, and value. It is ideally suited for anyone seeking a dependable, user-friendly, and long-lasting printing solution, making it a highly recommended option for various printing needs.
Pros
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces.
- Fast print speed for efficient black and white.
- Mobile printing via smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- Energy efficient with low power consumption.
- Affordable price point with essential features.
Cons
- Here are two cons based on the review:
- Large print jobs may take a while
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing – High resolution for sharp text and images.
In the world of printing solutions, this Brother printer offers a blend of convenience and compatibility. Initial setup can be achieved via USB connection, ensuring a reliable pathway to connect to your WiFi network. Following the provided instructions and restarting both the computer and printer is crucial for successful integration into the network.
Once connected, the printer demonstrates seamless compatibility with various devices, including MacBooks, iPhones, and Windows 11 laptops. Brother offers a mobile app which provides an alternative setup option, catering to individuals who primarily use smartphones. This app enables printing directly from iCloud files, expanding accessibility.
Regular firmware updates are supported to maintain optimal performance. The printer also monitors and displays toner levels, providing insights into supply status. The printer comes with a generous supply of toner, indicated by a full toner level display upon initial setup, suggesting that a standard toner cartridge is included.
While the printer’s “Deep Sleep” mode cannot be disabled and may require some network adjustments with EERO routers, Brother support provides resources to optimize connectivity on dual-band and mesh networks. It’s worth noting that the printer operates exclusively on the 2.4 GHz band and may necessitate a dedicated SSID for optimal performance with EERO routers. If direct connectivity proves challenging, alternative solutions such as portable Wi-Fi devices can be employed.
Pros
- High resolution for sharp text and images.
- Compact size fits home or office use.
- Good paper capacity handles most print jobs.
- Wireless connectivity for easy mobile printing.
- Affordable toner cartridges available for replacement.
Cons
- Deep sleep mode cannot be disabled
- Brother does not support five ghz
Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer [Print – High-resolution printing for crisp, clear documents.
Surprising versatility makes the TS7720 an excellent choice for home printing and home office needs, offering flexible media options through both front and rear input sources. Once past the initial startup, printing proceeds at a good pace. The printer handles smaller photos with fair to good quality and performs adequately with larger 8×10 prints.
The flatbed scanner is suitable for scanning documents and photos in both black and white and color. The included software is adequate for home use, facilitating both printing and scanning tasks. While not a professional-grade photo printer/scanner/copier, it meets the requirements for typical home applications.
Installation may require more attention than initially expected. While unpacking is straightforward, setting up a wireless connection with Windows 8.1 may involve consulting the user manual. Connecting the TS7720 to the router via the touch-screen control panel is a crucial step.
Once the printer is connected to the network, the Canon setup software can easily find it, enabling a smoother installation process. A noteworthy feature is the Auto Power setting, which, by default, shuts down the printer after four hours of inactivity. Adjusting this setting via the printer preferences allows for enabling Auto Power On, ensuring the printer turns on automatically when a print job is sent.
This adjustment affects the printer’s behavior for all connected computers.
Pros
- High-resolution printing for crisp, clear documents.
- Versatile media handling, including envelopes and photo paper.
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money.
- Integrated scanner and copier for home office needs.
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces.
Cons
- Installation can be difficult
- Touchscreen is quite small
HP Laserjet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer – Fast printing at 28 ppm for efficiency
Breaking down the insights, this printer offers phenomenal value. It’s a laser printer, offering a significant upgrade in speed and reliability compared to inkjet alternatives. The technology ensures faster printing speeds and consistent performance, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
A key advantage of this laser printer is the longevity of its toner. Toner cartridges last considerably longer than inkjet cartridges, reducing the frequency of replacements and saving on long-term printing costs. This feature contributes to the overall value proposition, making it an economical choice for homes and offices.
The increased accessibility of laser printers is noteworthy. Laser printers have become more affordable, making them a viable option for a wider range of individuals and businesses. This price reduction, combined with the benefits of laser technology, makes this printer an attractive investment.
In summary, this laser printer provides excellent value, offering superior speed and reliability compared to inkjet printers. Its long-lasting toner and affordable price point make it a practical and cost-effective printing solution for diverse needs.
Pros
- Fast printing at 28 ppm for efficiency
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money
- Compact size fits small office or home use
- Mobile printing via app for easy control
- Good resolution for clear black and white prints
Cons
- Here are two cons based on the review:
- Price may still be too high
HP LaserJet M209dw Wireless Black & White Printer – Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money.
The wait is over for a cost-effective and convenient printing solution perfect for modern households. The HP LaserJet M209dw Wireless Printer addresses the common need for seamless printing from mobile devices, especially for those heavily reliant on iPhones and iPads. This printer offers a fast printing speed and high-resolution output on standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper, ensuring quality documents every time.
Its full WiFi enablement allows for effortless integration into your home network, enabling wireless printing from any compatible device, be it a smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer. The HP LaserJet M209dw presents an economical alternative to color laser printers. While it focuses on monochrome printing, it delivers exceptional value by offering similar features at a significantly lower price point.
The savings extend beyond the initial purchase, as replacement cartridges are substantially more affordable compared to those required for color laser printers. For those seeking a budget-friendly printer with wireless capabilities, the HP LaserJet M209dw is an ideal choice. Its combination of essential features, ease of use, and affordability make it a highly recommended option for individuals and families looking to streamline their printing needs.
Pros
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and money.
- Compact size fits easily in office spaces.
- High-resolution printing ensures clear, crisp documents.
- Wireless connectivity enables convenient mobile printing.
- Multifunction: print, copy, and scan capabilities.
Cons
- Monochrome printing only
- Color printing is much pricier
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Black And White Printers For Mac
Understanding Your Black and White Printing Needs
Choosing the best black and white printer for Mac depends heavily on your individual printing needs. Consider the volume of printing you anticipate. If you print frequently, a laser printer with a high page yield toner cartridge might be more cost-effective in the long run. Also, think about the types of documents you’ll be printing. Are you primarily printing text, or do you need to print graphics and images? The desired resolution will vary based on this. Finally, consider features like mobile printing, duplex printing, and scanning capabilities.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting the best black and white printer for Mac, several key features should be considered. Print speed is crucial if you need to print large documents quickly. Look for printers with a high ppm (pages per minute) rating. Resolution is another important factor, especially if you need to print detailed images or graphics. Automatic duplex printing is a valuable feature that can save paper and money. Wireless connectivity is essential for printing from your Mac and other devices. Consider the printer’s paper capacity and the availability and cost of replacement toner cartridges.
Laser vs. Inkjet for Black and White Printing
For best black and white printers for Mac, the choice between laser and inkjet technology is critical. Laser printers generally excel at printing text documents quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for high-volume text printing. Inkjet printers, while versatile, may not be as cost-effective for monochrome printing. However, some inkjet printers offer excellent grayscale printing and can handle various media types, including photo paper, which might be beneficial if you occasionally need to print grayscale images. Consider the cost per page and the specific needs of your printing tasks.
Connectivity and Compatibility with Mac
Ensure that the printer you choose is fully compatible with your Mac operating system. Most modern printers offer seamless connectivity via Wi-Fi, allowing you to print wirelessly from your Mac, iPhone, and iPad. Look for printers that support Apple AirPrint for easy mobile printing. Also, ensure that the printer comes with Mac drivers or is compatible with generic drivers. Some printers also offer mobile apps that allow you to control printing settings and monitor toner levels directly from your Mac. A best black and white printer for Mac should integrate seamlessly with your Apple ecosystem.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
While the initial purchase price of a printer is important, it’s crucial to consider the long-term costs. Factor in the cost of toner cartridges, paper, and maintenance. Laser printers typically have a lower cost per page than inkjet printers, making them more economical for high-volume printing. Look for printers with affordable toner cartridges and high page yields. Also, consider the energy efficiency of the printer. Energy Star-certified printers consume less power, saving you money on your electricity bill. Finding the best black and white printer for Mac involves balancing initial cost with long-term expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Black And White Printers For Mac
What are the advantages of using a laser printer over an inkjet for black and white printing with my Mac?
Laser printers typically offer several advantages for monochrome printing. They generally print faster, making them ideal for high-volume printing. Laser printers also produce sharper text and are more cost-effective in the long run due to their lower cost per page. Toner cartridges last longer than ink cartridges, reducing the frequency of replacements. For users who primarily print text-based documents, a laser printer is often the best black and white printer for Mac due to its speed, efficiency, and lower long-term costs.
How do I ensure that the printer I choose is compatible with my Mac’s operating system?
Checking compatibility is crucial. Most reputable printer manufacturers provide Mac drivers on their website. Before purchasing, visit the manufacturer’s website and verify that drivers are available for your specific Mac operating system version. You can also check online forums and reviews to see if other Mac users have reported any compatibility issues. Many printers also support Apple AirPrint, which allows you to print directly from your Mac without installing drivers. Choosing the best black and white printer for Mac begins with confirming compatibility.
What does “duplex printing” mean, and why is it important?
Duplex printing refers to the ability of a printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper. This feature is important because it saves paper, reduces printing costs, and is environmentally friendly. By printing on both sides, you can cut your paper consumption in half. Duplex printing is particularly useful for printing long documents, such as reports or articles. Consider this feature when searching for the best black and white printer for Mac if you want to reduce your environmental footprint.
How can I print from my iPhone or iPad to a black and white printer connected to my Mac?
Many modern printers offer wireless connectivity and support Apple AirPrint, allowing you to print directly from your iPhone or iPad without needing to install any additional apps or drivers. Simply ensure that your printer and iOS device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, open the document or photo you want to print, tap the share icon, and select “Print.” Choose your printer from the list and adjust the printing settings as needed. This ease of use makes finding the best black and white printer for Mac simpler.
What is the difference between PPM and DPI, and why are they important when choosing a printer?
PPM stands for pages per minute, and it refers to the print speed of a printer. A higher PPM indicates that the printer can print more pages in a shorter amount of time. DPI stands for dots per inch, and it refers to the resolution of the print. A higher DPI indicates that the printer can produce sharper and more detailed images. Both PPM and DPI are important factors to consider when choosing a printer, as they affect the speed and quality of your prints. This impacts your search for the best black and white printer for Mac.
How do I troubleshoot common printing problems with my black and white printer on a Mac?
Common printing problems include paper jams, connectivity issues, and print quality problems. For paper jams, carefully remove the jammed paper following the printer’s instructions. For connectivity issues, ensure that your printer and Mac are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that the printer drivers are up to date. For print quality problems, check the toner levels and clean the print heads if necessary. Restarting both your Mac and printer can often resolve minor issues. Online resources and printer manuals often provide further assistance.
What are the long-term costs associated with owning a black and white laser printer?
The long-term costs include the price of replacement toner cartridges, paper, and maintenance. Toner cartridges can vary in price and yield, so it’s important to consider the cost per page. Paper costs can also add up over time. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the printer and replacing worn parts, can also contribute to the overall cost. Researching these factors will help you find the best black and white printer for Mac for your budget.
How do I recycle or dispose of used toner cartridges properly?
Most printer manufacturers offer recycling programs for used toner cartridges. You can often return the cartridges to the manufacturer or drop them off at designated collection points. Some office supply stores also offer recycling programs. Alternatively, you can check with your local waste management provider for information on proper disposal methods. Recycling toner cartridges helps to reduce waste and protect the environment. Responsible disposal is key when considering any best black and white printer for Mac.
What features should I look for if I need a printer that can handle different paper sizes and types?
Look for a printer that supports a wide range of paper sizes, including standard sizes like letter and legal, as well as smaller sizes like envelopes and labels. Also, ensure that the printer can handle different paper types, such as plain paper, card stock, and photo paper. A versatile paper tray and adjustable paper guides can help to accommodate different paper sizes and types. These features are important if you need to print a variety of documents.
Is a multifunction printer (print, scan, copy) worth the extra cost for black and white printing?
A multifunction printer can be a valuable investment, even if you primarily need it for black and white printing. The ability to scan and copy documents can be very useful for home or office tasks. Multifunction printers often take up less space than separate devices. While they may have a higher initial cost, the added functionality can be worth it in the long run, especially if you frequently need to scan or copy documents. This is a key consideration for the best black and white printer for Mac.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
After careful consideration of all the options, we believe the HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer stands out as the best overall choice for most users. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you are a casual user or a discerning enthusiast, this product delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying experience.
