If you’re looking for a color printer, you might feel overwhelmed by the number of options available on the market. Choosing the right one can be daunting, especially if you’re on a budget. Finding the best affordable color printer can seem like a never-ending task, but with a few considerations, you'll be able to make the right decision.
Before purchasing a color printer, think about what factors are important to you. For instance, do you need a printer that can handle high volume, or do you need something that's compact and easy to move around? Think about whether you need a printer that has features such as automatic duplexing or a scanner. Another factor to consider is the cost of replacement ink and toner cartridges. Some printers have low upfront costs, but the cartridges are expensive and need to be replaced frequently.
Are you still searching for the perfect affordable color printer? Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you find the best one. What are your printing needs? What is the price range you’re comfortable with? Are you willing to compromise on features for affordability? Is it essential for you to have a printer that offers wireless printing capabilities? Do you print high-quality photos frequently or is text printing your main concern? Answering these questions will help you find a printer that best suits your needs and budget.
10 Best Affordable Color Printer
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for wireless printing with Alexa compatibility.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for those in need of a high-quality wireless color printer with laser-like results at an affordable price.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for those in need of a wireless, color all-in-one printer with a scanner, copier, and auto document feeder.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
The Brother MFC-J1205W printer is ideal for home or small office printing needs, with efficient and cost-effective ink usage.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
The product is ideal for monochrome printing with duplex capabilities at an affordable price point.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
The product is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective solution for printing, scanning, and copying documents with convenient mobile accessibility.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for wireless printing from mobile devices and tablets in color.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for individuals or small businesses looking for an affordable, wireless, and ink-efficient all-in-one printer.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for printing at home with a compact design, wireless capabilities, and HP Instant Ink subscription service.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for home and small office printing needs with the ability to scan and make copies.
|
|
1. Canon Ts302 Wireless Inkjet Printer, Black, Works With Alexa
The product is designed to make printing from your iPhone, iPad, and Mac a breeze with AIRPRINT technology. This feature eliminates the need for cables and drivers, ensuring you can quickly print all your documents and photos with ease. The AUTO POWER ON/OFF feature is an added convenience, allowing the printer to turn on when you need it and off when you don't. This feature helps you save on energy costs and ensures that the printer is always ready to use.
The FINE HYBRID INK SYSTEM is a standout feature of this printer. It produces detailed documents and photos with high-quality color reproduction. This technology combines dye-based inks for vibrant colors and pigment-based inks for sharp text, ensuring that each print is of the highest quality. With this printer, you can enjoy stunning prints that are sure to impress.
The dedicated REAR PAPER TRAY is designed to make paper refilling quick and easy. This feature saves you time and frustration, allowing you to focus on your work instead of fussing with paper trays. With this printer, you can print large volumes of documents and photos without worrying about running out of paper.
2. Brother Color Laser Wireless Printer – Compact Quality
The Brother HLL3210CW Digital Color Printer is a reliable and efficient printer that can keep up with your fast-paced work environment. With a print speed of up to 19 pages per minute, you can get your documents printed quickly and efficiently.
This printer offers easy and affordable color printing, allowing you to produce professional quality, rich, and vivid color documents with laser printer quality. You can print your documents with ease, knowing that you are getting high-quality prints every time.
The Brother HLL3210CW also features versatile paper handling that can help increase productivity. With a 250 sheet paper tray that can be adjusted for letter or legal paper, you can minimize the amount of time you spend refilling the tray. Additionally, the manual feed slot can handle a variety of paper types and sizes, including card stock and envelopes.
This printer offers flexible connectivity options, allowing you to print and connect your way. The HLL3210CW offers wireless mobile device printing, built-in wireless, WiFi Direct, and USB interfaces. You can easily connect your printer to your mobile devices or computer and start printing your documents right away.
To ensure the best printing results, the Brother HLL3210CW is designed for use with Brother Genuine Toner. The printer is compatible with TN223BK, TN223C, TN223M, TN223Y, TN227BK, TN227C, TN227M, and TN227Y toners.
3. Ecotank Pro All-In-One Printer With Scanner!
This promotional offer is valid for purchasers of select Epson printers, specifically the ET-5150, ET-5170, ET-5180, ET-5800, ET-5850, ET-5880, ET-16600 or ET-16650 models, bought between October 1, 2021 and March 31, 2024. Customers can enjoy two years of unlimited ink, provided they register their product within 30 days of purchase. Each claim is limited to four 542 ink bottles, with no duplicates of the same color. Customers are required to retain their empty ink bottles for submission with the rebate form. This promotion applies only to ink and not to the printer itself, which is covered by Epson's two-year limited warranty upon registration. For more information, visit the manufacturer's website.
Epson's Cartridge-Free printing technology offers customers the opportunity to save up to 80% on ink compared to standard-capacity color laser toner cartridges. Low-cost replacement ink bottles result in a cost of approximately two cents per color ISO page, compared to 14 cents with color laser toner cartridges. Additionally, this printer boasts a print speed of up to 17 black/9.5 color ISO pages per minute, with no warm-up time and a fast first page out.
The Epson DURABrite ET pigment inks ensure professional-quality color prints that are crisp, vibrant, and consistent, whether printing in black-and-white or color. Designed for high-volume business environments, the printer is reliable and backed by a two-year limited warranty with registration. The PrecisionCore permanent printhead is engineered to last the life of the printer.
Customers can enjoy the benefits of zero-cartridge waste with high-yield ink bottles, resulting in less waste and more cost savings. A bonus black ink bottle is included in the purchase, offering an additional 7,500 pages in black right out of the box, and each replacement set of bottles offers up to 7,500 pages in black and 6,000 in color.
This printer offers powerful productivity features, including auto 2-sided printing, a 250-sheet paper tray, a 2.4" color touchscreen, Ethernet, ADF, and face-down output. Customers can easily control their printer through the Epson Smart Panel app, which allows them to set up, operate, and monitor the printer using their mobile device.
Epson recommends using genuine ink to ensure optimal print quality and performance, and non-genuine ink could cause damage not covered under the printer's limited warranty. Overall, this printer is a reliable, cost-effective, and efficient option for businesses looking to save money on ink and boost productivity.
4. Brother Inkvestment Wireless Color Multi-Printer.
Experience the ultimate convenience with the Brother INKvestment Tank inkjet printer, which comes with four cartridges that can last for up to one year without needing a replacement. Say goodbye to frequent ink changes and enjoy uninterrupted printing.
This printer offers various connectivity options, including wireless, wireless direct, and USB connectivity. Additionally, it is compatible with AirPrint, Brother Mobile Connect, and Mopria, making it highly versatile and easy to use with your mobile device.
The Brother Mobile Connect App simplifies the printing process by providing on-screen menu navigation for printing, copying, scanning, and printer management, all from your mobile device. With this app, you can easily control your printer from the palm of your hand.
Brother Genuine Ink cartridges are engineered to work with INKvestment Tank inkjet printers, ensuring high-quality prints and reliable page yields. You can choose from a full range of INKvestment Tank cartridges, including LC404BK, LC404C, LC404M, LC404Y, and LC404 3PK.
The Brother INKvestment Tank system features reengineered ink cartridges that hold more ink than traditional cartridges, providing a continuous ink supply for hassle-free, uninterrupted printing. You can print with confidence using the Brother Page Gauge, which visually displays the amount of ink used and remaining, taking the guesswork out of when to replace ink.
When it comes time to replace your ink supply, the Brother Genuine LC404 inks are the perfect choice. If you want to avoid worrying about running out of ink again, you can start with the Refresh EZ Print Subscription service and save up to 50% on ink. Enjoy the power of printing at your fingertips with the Brother INKvestment Tank.
5. Brother Hl-L2300d Monochrome Laser Printer With Duplex Printing
The printer is a reliable and efficient machine that can print up to 27 pages per minute. It boasts automatic duplex printing, which saves resources by allowing printing on both sides of the paper. The printer produces sharp, professional black and white pages at a resolution of up to 2400 x 600dpi.
With a 250-sheet capacity paper tray and the ability to print on both sides of the paper, this printer is perfect for small to medium-sized offices. The manual feed slot lets you conveniently print envelopes and letterheads.
The printer has a recommended monthly volume of 250 to 2,000 pages, making it ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. It is compatible with Windows 10, but users upgrading from Windows 7 or 8.1 must uninstall all drivers and software before upgrading to ensure all features work correctly.
The machine uses a USB connection, ensuring your office runs smoothly with no complications. The high-speed USB 2.0 interface provides fast and reliable printing speeds. However, the printer does not come with a USB cable.
The printer comes with a 1-year limited warranty and free phone support for the life of the machine. The maximum monthly duty cycle is 10,000 pages, and the output paper capacity is 100 sheets.
Brother is the #1 retail brand in laser printer unit sales in the U.S. (Source: The NPD Group, Inc., U.S. Retail Tracking Service, SF and MF Laser Printers, Based on units, Jan. 2018 – Sept. 2021 combined).
6. Smart Ink-Free Printer: Hp 7301
The printer that is best for busy families is here. With the ability to print a variety of color documents in high volumes, this printer is perfect for any household that requires a lot of printing.
This printer comes with an array of key features that make it a must-have for any family. With the ability to print, copy and scan, plus automatic 2-sided printing, 35-page automatic document feeder, and borderless prints, it does it all. It also has mobile and wireless printing capabilities, making it easy to print from any device. You can print up to 15 ppm black and 9 ppm color, making it a fast and efficient printer.
This printer is fully loaded with savings, making it perfect for low-cost, high-volume printing. It comes with up to 2 years of Original HP Ink Bottles included, allowing you to get up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages right out of the box.
Exceptional HP quality is guaranteed with this printer. It consistently delivers outstanding color graphics, photos, and crisp text for all your prints.
Refilling ink is simple and spill-free with HP's easy-access, spill-free refill system. Simply plug the Original HP 32XL Black Bottle or Original HP 31 Color Bottles into the ink tank and let them drain – no squeezing, no spilling.
This printer is easy to use, with smart-guided buttons that illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan, and copy tasks.
Essential security is also included with this printer. It protects from viruses, malware, and helps maintain privacy and control with basic encryption and password protection.
Reliable connectivity is a must, and this printer has you covered. Self-healing dual-band Wi-FiTM automatically detects and resolves connection issues, and easily share resources with Ethernet networking.
This printer is also helping to protect our planet. It is made from recycled materials – more than 25% by weight of plastic. You can help stop deforestation and protect wildlife by using FSC-certified HP-branded paper made with responsibly sourced fiber.
7. Canon Pixma Mg3620 Wireless All-In-One Color Inkjet Printer With Mobile And Tablet Printing, Black
The PIXMA MG3620 Wireless Inkjet All-In-One Printer is the ultimate solution for mobile printing needs. Easily print from your mobile devices, such as your iPhone, iPad, Android or tablet, without any hassle. The printer comes with FINE cartridges in black and color, a power cord, manuals and other documents, and a setup CD-ROM.
Setting up the printer is quick and easy, thanks to its powerful wireless connectivity options. The PIXMA MG3620 offers Airprint, Google Cloud Print, NFC, Mopria and Canon Print for a seamless printing experience. With these options, users can print their documents and photos from anywhere in the room, without any need for cables or wires.
The PIXMA MG3620 features a compact and space-saving design, which makes it a great addition to any home or office. It also has an auto 2-sided printing feature, which allows users to print on both sides of the page easily. This feature not only saves paper but also reduces printing time.
In terms of printing speed, the PIXMA MG3620 delivers impressive results. It can print up to 16 pages per minute in color and up to 9.9 pages per minute in black and white. This means that users can get their printing done quickly and efficiently, without any delays.
The PIXMA MG3620 can perform a variety of functions, including printing, copying, and scanning. Its form factor is perfect for those who need a multifunctional device that can handle their daily printing needs.
Finally, the PIXMA MG3620 offers Wi-Fi connectivity technology, which ensures that users can print from anywhere in the room. This printer is perfect for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient printing solution that is easy to use and provides high-quality results.
8. Ultimate Wireless Printer With 2-Year Ink
This printer is the perfect choice for families who need to print a wide range of color documents in high volumes. With its key features, this printer offers a comprehensive solution to all your printing, copying, and scanning needs.
The printer comes with automatic 2-sided printing, borderless prints, mobile and wireless printing, making it easy and convenient to use. It can print up to 12 pages per minute in black and 7 pages per minute in color, ensuring that you can get your work done quickly and efficiently.
The printer is fully loaded with savings, making it perfect for low-cost, high-volume printing. With up to 2 years of Original HP Ink Bottles included, you can get up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages right out of the box. This means you won't have to worry about running out of ink anytime soon, which is a great relief for busy families.
In addition to its outstanding color graphics and crisp text, this printer comes with exceptional HP quality. This ensures that you get the best possible results every time you print, giving you peace of mind knowing that your documents will look professional and polished.
The HP Smart App allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, wherever and whenever you need to. With 1 year of additional advanced features included, you can be confident that this printer will meet all your needs for years to come.
9. Wireless All-In-One Printer With Alexa Integration – Seagrass
The HP DeskJet 3755 (3700 series) compact printer is a versatile and convenient device that offers a range of features to suit any modern home or office. With its ability to copy, scan, and print wirelessly, this printer is a reliable and efficient solution for all your printing needs.
The HP Smart app is an added bonus that allows for easy printer setup and scanning directly from your smartphone. You can also order toner and print from cloud services such as iCloud, Dropbox, and Google Drive. The app puts the power of your printer in the palm of your hand, making it a breeze to manage your printing tasks on the go.
The HP DeskJet 3755 is Instant Ink ready, which means you'll never run out of ink when you need it most. With the option to enroll in HP Instant Ink during printer setup, you can get your first 4 months of ink for free, with plans starting at just $0.99 per month after the trial period. Shipping and recycling are included, making it a no-hassle solution to keep your printer running smoothly.
This printer is compact and wireless, designed to fit seamlessly into your space and lifestyle. It boasts a vibrant blue color and is the world's smallest all-in-one for home use. With its ultra-compact size, you can place it anywhere you need it, making it a perfect fit for any room or spot in your home.
The HP DeskJet 3755 features a seven-segment plus LCD display, which makes it easy to navigate and operate. With HP Scroll Scan, you can handle most scan jobs effortlessly, from plain paper to stiff media. This printer supports various paper sizes, including letter, legal, 4×6 in, 5×7 in, 8×10 in, and No. 10 envelopes. It also supports a range of media types, including plain paper, matte brochure papers, glossy brochure papers, photo papers, envelopes, and other specialty inkjet papers.
This printer is compatible with a range of operating systems, including Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and iOS. With its user-friendly design, compact size, and versatile features, the HP DeskJet 3755 is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient printer.
10. Canon Mg Series Pixma Mg2525 Inkjet Photo Printer With Scanner/copier, Black
The Pixma MG2525 is a compact and convenient all-in-one printer that offers an array of features, making it a great choice for any home or office. With its black pigment ink, this printer produces high-quality text that looks sharp and clear on regular paper. This affordable inkjet all-in-one printer is the perfect solution for those who need to print, scan, and copy documents on a regular basis.
The Pixma MG2525 is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. It can be used with Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, Windows 7 SP1, Windows Vista SP1, Vista SP2, Windows XP SP3 32-bit, as well as Mac OS X v10.7.5 – 10.11. This printer offers USB connectivity technology for easy and quick setup, and it has a copy form factor that allows for efficient copying of documents.
In terms of speed, the Pixma MG2525 is capable of printing up to 4.0 pages per minute in color, which makes it a great choice for those who need to print documents quickly. The printer can handle paper sizes up to 4 inches x 6 inches, making it ideal for printing photos or other small documents.
Best Affordable Color Printer FAQs
Are there any affordable color printers that are compatible with my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, there are several affordable color printers that are compatible with smartphones and tablets. One such example is the Canon PIXMA TS3320 Wireless All-in-One Printer, which is available at a reasonable price and can be easily connected with your smartphone or tablet through Wi-Fi. This printer also features AirPrint technology, which allows you to print directly from your Apple devices without the need for any additional software. Another option is the HP ENVY 6055 Wireless All-in-One Printer, which is not only affordable but also comes with a mobile app that enables you to print from your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, this printer supports voice-activated printing through Alexa or Google Assistant. Overall, there are plenty of color printers available in the market that are compatible with smartphones and tablets, and you can choose the one that best suits your budget and requirements.
Can I find a reliable and affordable color printer that has good print quality?
Yes, it is possible to find a reliable and affordable color printer that has good print quality. There are several options available in the market that offer a balance between cost and quality.
One option is the HP OfficeJet Pro 6978. It is an all-in-one printer that offers fast print speeds and good quality prints. It also has features such as automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity. Another option is the Brother HL-L3270CDW. This printer is designed for small businesses and home offices and offers high-quality color prints at an affordable price.
When looking for a printer, it's important to consider factors such as the cost of ink or toner cartridges and the overall cost of ownership. Some printers may have a low upfront cost but may end up costing more in the long run due to high ink or toner costs. It's also important to read reviews and do research before making a purchasing decision to ensure that the printer meets your specific needs and expectations.
How do I choose the most suitable affordable color printer for my needs?
Choosing the most suitable affordable color printer for your needs can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available in the market. The first step is to determine your printing needs, whether you need to print mostly text or graphics, and the frequency of your printing tasks. This will help you decide on the type of printer you need, whether an inkjet or laser printer.
It's also essential to consider the cost of replacement cartridges or toners. Some printers have expensive cartridges that can make them more costly in the long run. Therefore, it's important to research the cost of replacement cartridges for your preferred printer before making a purchase.
Another factor to consider is the connectivity options. If you have multiple devices, you may want to choose a printer that has Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity. This will enable you to print from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop without having to transfer files.
Lastly, read reviews from other users and check the printer's specifications to make sure it meets your requirements. By following these tips, you can choose the most suitable affordable color printer for your needs.
How long should I expect an affordable color printer to last before needing to replace it?
The lifespan of an affordable color printer can vary depending on various factors such as the brand, model, frequency of use, and maintenance practices. Generally, most affordable color printers are designed to last for 2 to 5 years before needing to be replaced. However, this is not a hard and fast rule as some printers can last longer or shorter depending on how well they are maintained.
To ensure that your affordable color printer lasts for as long as possible, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance, such as regular cleaning and using high-quality ink or toner cartridges. Additionally, it is important to avoid overusing the printer and to give it time to cool down after extended use.
In summary, the lifespan of an affordable color printer can be influenced by several factors, but with proper care and maintenance, you can expect it to last for at least 2 to 5 years.
How much should I expect to spend on a high-quality affordable color printer?
The cost of a high-quality affordable color printer can vary depending on the brand, features, and functionality. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $300 for a decent quality color printer that can handle your basic printing needs such as documents, photos, and graphics. However, if you need a printer with advanced features like wireless connectivity, automatic duplex printing, and high-speed printing capabilities, then you may need to spend more money.
It's important to keep in mind that the initial cost of the printer is not the only expense you'll incur. You'll also need to factor in the cost of replacement ink cartridges, which can add up over time. Make sure to research the cost of replacement cartridges before making a purchase.
Ultimately, the price you should expect to spend on a high-quality affordable color printer will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's always a good idea to read reviews, compare prices, and consider the long-term costs before making a decision.
What are the best affordable color printers currently available in the market?
There are several affordable color printers available in the market that offer great value for money. One of the best options is the HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e. It is a multifunction printer that can print, scan, copy, and fax. It offers fast printing speeds and produces high-quality prints with vibrant colors. Another great option is the Canon PIXMA TR8620. This printer is also a multifunction device that delivers excellent color accuracy and sharpness. It is easy to set up and use, making it a popular choice for home and small business users. The Brother HL-L3270CDW is another affordable color printer that is ideal for small offices or home use. It produces high-quality prints and offers fast printing speeds. Lastly, the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3730 is a reliable and efficient printer that can handle high-volume printing with ease. It is a great choice for small businesses or home offices looking for a budget-friendly color printer.
What are the key features to look for in an affordable color printer?
When looking for an affordable color printer, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Firstly, you should look for a printer that offers high-quality color printing. This means that the printer should have a high resolution and be able to produce sharp, vibrant colors.
Secondly, it is important to consider the cost of ink or toner cartridges for the printer. You want to make sure that the cost of replacement ink or toner is affordable and that the printer does not have a high ink consumption rate.
Thirdly, the printer should have a good printing speed and be able to handle a range of paper types and sizes. This will ensure that you can print a variety of documents quickly and easily.
Fourthly, it is important to consider the connectivity options for the printer. Ideally, the printer should offer both wireless and wired connectivity to make it easy to print from a range of devices.
Lastly, it is important to consider the overall durability and reliability of the printer. Look for a printer that is built to last and has a good track record of reliability.
By considering these key features, you can find an affordable color printer that meets your needs and delivers high-quality results.
What are the most trusted brands for affordable color printers?
When it comes to affordable color printers, there are several trusted brands that offer reliable and cost-effective options. One of the most popular brands in this category is HP, which offers a range of affordable color printers that are suitable for both home and office use. Another trusted brand is Canon, which is known for its high-quality printing technology and affordable prices. Epson is also a popular choice for those looking for affordable color printers, with a wide range of models available at various price points. Brother is another brand that offers affordable color printers, with a focus on functionality and versatility. Other brands to consider include Samsung and Xerox, both of which offer affordable color printers that are designed to meet the needs of small businesses and home users. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and budget, so it's important to do your research and compare different models before making a purchase.
What are the pros and cons of inkjet vs. laser affordable color printers?
Inkjet printers and laser printers both have their own advantages and disadvantages, especially when it comes to affordable color printers.
Pros of inkjet printers:
1. Affordable upfront cost.
2. Produce high-quality color prints with a wide range of color tones.
3. Suitable for printing photos and graphics with fine details.
4. Compact size and lightweight design.
Cons of inkjet printers:
1. High running cost due to frequent ink cartridge replacement.
2. Print speed is slower compared to laser printers.
3. Prone to smudging and bleeding on certain types of paper.
4. May require more maintenance and cleaning to avoid clogging.
Pros of laser printers:
1. Lower running cost due to toner cartridge having a longer lifespan.
2. Faster print speed and higher output capacity.
3. Produce sharp and crisp text documents.
4. Minimal maintenance required.
Cons of laser printers:
1. Higher upfront cost compared to inkjet printers.
2. Limited color range and less suitable for printing photos or graphics.
3. Bulkier and heavier design.
4. May produce harmful fumes during printing.
Ultimately, the choice between inkjet and laser affordable color printers depends on the specific needs of the user. For those who prioritize high-quality photo printing and don't mind the higher running cost, an inkjet printer may be the best choice. For those who prioritize speed, efficiency, and lower running cost, a laser printer would be a better option.
Which affordable color printers offer the best value for money?
There are several affordable color printers available in the market that offer great value for money. One such option is the HP OfficeJet Pro 6978. This printer is known for its fast printing speed and high-quality output. It also has a range of features such as automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
Another great option is the Brother HL-L3270CDW. This printer is known for its reliable performance and low cost per page. It also has a range of features such as automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a large paper capacity.
Lastly, the Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw is also a great option for those looking for an affordable color printer. It offers fast printing speed, high-quality output, and a range of features such as automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
Overall, these three printers offer excellent value for money and are worth considering for anyone looking for an affordable color printer.