Choosing the right printer for home use involves balancing cost, functionality, and ease of use. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 stands out as the best overall pick thanks to its versatile inkjet performance and duplex printing. For those prioritizing budget, the HP DeskJet 2955 offers reliable print quality at an affordable price. Meanwhile, the Brother MFCL2820DW makes a strong case for users who need a monochrome laser option with quick, high-volume printing. As options range from compact inkjets to all-in-one laser models, understanding their tradeoffs is key. Keep reading for a full breakdown of these choices and which one suits your home setup best.
Key Takeaways
- The best overall printers balance print quality, versatility, and ease of maintenance, with the Canon PIXMA TS6520 leading the pack.
- Laser printers tend to be more cost-effective over time for high-volume printing, but inkjet printers often excel in photo quality and color accuracy.
- Compact models like the Brother MFCL2820DW are ideal for small spaces but may lack some multifunction features found in larger units.
- Cost of ink or toner can significantly impact long-term value, making ink tank models like the HP Smart Tank 5003 worth considering for heavy users.
- Ease of use and connectivity features, such as wireless and mobile printing, are essential for seamless home office integration.
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Use | Display: 1.42” OLED | Printer Type: Wireless Color Inkjet | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy 6555e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Everyday Document and Photo Printing | Print Speed: 7 ppm color, 10 ppm black | Auto Document Feeder: 35 sheets | Input Tray: 100 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Basic Home Printing on a Budget | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | Print Speed: Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier |  | Best for High-Volume, Cost-Effective Printing at Home | Printer Type: All-In-One Ink Tank Printer | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile | Included Ink: Up to 3 years | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer MFCL2820DW Bundle |  | Best for Small Office or Monochrome Home Use | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Overall for Home Office Flexibility | Print Speed: Up to 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color | Paper Capacity: 225 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.7-inch color touchscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Home Use |  | Best Budget-Friendly All-in-One | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Media Size: Up to 8.5″ x 11″ | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wireless Printer |  | Best for Small Office Document Management | Print Speed: Up to 33 ppm | Auto 2-sided Printing: Yes | Auto 1-sided Scanning: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8139 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Versatile Home Office All-in-One | Print Speed: 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color | Input Tray Capacity: 225 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.7-inch color touchscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier |  | Best Compact All-in-One for Budget-Conscious Homes | Print Speed: 5.5 ppm color, 8.5 ppm black | Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz only | Functions: Print, copy, scan | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Use | Print Speed: Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color) | Borderless Printing: Up to 8.5″ x 11″ | Auto Document Feeder: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2923 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget-Friendly for Basic Home Printing | Print Speed: Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Automatic Duplex Printing and 1.8” Color Display |  | Best for Small Office and Home Office Use | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless, USB | Display: 1.8-inch Color Display | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer |  | Best for High-Volume, Cost-Conscious Printing | Print Speed: 10 ppm | Color Printing: Yes | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, Scan, Copy, Duplex Printing |  | Best for High-Quality Photos and Color Documents | Print Speed (Black): 10 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 7 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 100 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| printers for home use | Connectivity | Print Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) | — |
| HP Envy 6555e Wireless All-in- | Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi | 7 ppm color, 10 ppm black |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-i | Wireless, mobile printing | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless Al | Wireless, Mobile | — |
| Brother Wireless Compact Monoc | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | 36 ppm |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless | Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi | Up to 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | — |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wi | Wi-Fi | Up to 33 ppm |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8139 Wireless | Dual-band Wi-Fi | 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color |
| HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All- | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz only | 5.5 ppm color, 8.5 ppm black |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wireless, Alexa compatible | Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color) |
| HP DeskJet 2923 Wireless All-i | Wireless, mobile printing | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless C | Wireless, USB | — |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless | Wireless | 10 ppm |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-O | Dual-band Wi-Fi | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 stands out for combining affordability with high-quality color printing, making it ideal for households that want both document and photo prints without breaking the bank. Compared with the HP Envy 6555e, it offers more compact design and easier setup, though its slower print speeds may be a tradeoff for casual users. Its automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity make everyday tasks smoother, but the small OLED display can be limiting for users who prefer detailed monitoring. This printer suits families or students who need reliable all-in-one functionality in a compact form and are willing to accept slightly slower performance.
Pros:- Affordable all-in-one functionality for home use
- High-quality vibrant prints and sharp text
- Easy setup and mobile printing options
Cons:- Limited to standard media sizes, no large format support
- Small OLED display may be less convenient for detailed monitoring
- Print speed may be slower compared to professional models
Best for: Home users who want an affordable, versatile printer for occasional document and photo printing
Not ideal for: Busy households with high-volume printing needs or those requiring fast output
- Display:1.42” OLED
- Printer Type:Wireless Color Inkjet
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Media Support:Up to 8.5” x 11” with or without borders
- Design:Compact and stylish
Our verdict“A well-rounded choice for casual home printing that balances quality and convenience.”
HP Envy 6555e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy 6555e offers an intuitive experience with its 2.4-inch touchscreen and includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial, making it a smart pick for households that print frequently but don’t need rapid speeds. Its reliable wireless connectivity is a step above many basic models, but it requires HP-specific cartridges with chips or circuitry, which can increase ongoing costs. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, it excels in photo quality and color versatility, yet it’s slower and less suited for high-volume printing. This model is well-suited for families or hobbyists who prioritize ease of use and color output over speed and volume.
Pros:- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
- Wireless printing with reliable Wi-Fi
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial
Cons:- Works only with HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry
- Print speeds may be slow for high-volume tasks
- Firmware updates required for cartridge compatibility
Best for: Home users who print photos and documents regularly and value an easy interface
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or users prioritizing fast monochrome output
- Print Speed:7 ppm color, 10 ppm black
- Auto Document Feeder:35 sheets
- Input Tray:100 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.4 inches
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
Our verdict“Perfect for casual color printing and photo enthusiasts who want simple, wireless operation.”
HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2955 fits the needs of households seeking straightforward, affordable printing with minimal fuss. Its intuitive LCD control panel and fast print speeds make everyday tasks easier, and its eco-friendly design appeals to environmentally conscious users. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it offers a slightly faster print speed for black documents, but it lacks the photo quality finesse. This model is ideal for families or students who primarily print documents and occasional photos, but it isn’t suited for high-volume or photo-centric households.
Pros:- Affordable for basic home printing needs
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Eco-friendly design made with recycled plastics
Cons:- Limited to basic printing functions
- Print speeds are relatively slow for high-volume tasks
- Additional costs after the free trial of Instant Ink
Best for: Families or students needing simple, reliable printing at a low cost
Not ideal for: Photographers or users with high-quality photo printing demands
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Print Speed:Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
- Design:Compact, eco-friendly
Our verdict“An economical, easy-to-use printer suited for light home printing with minimal extras.”
HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier
The HP Smart Tank 5003 is a standout for households with high printing demands, thanks to its refillable ink tanks and up to 3 years of included ink. Its simple, mess-free refill system makes low-cost, high-volume printing feasible, and the borderless feature adds versatility for photos. Compared with cartridge-based models like the HP Envy 6555e, it offers dramatically lower ongoing costs, though the initial setup can be complex for first-time users. This printer is best suited for large families or home-based small businesses that prioritize economy and volume, rather than fast speeds or compact size.
Pros:- High-volume printing with up to 3 years of ink included
- Easy, mess-free ink refill system
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
Cons:- Primarily designed for home use, not high-demand office environments
- Initial setup may be complex for some users
Best for: High-volume households seeking low-cost, reliable printing over the long term
Not ideal for: Users needing rapid, occasional printing or a compact footprint
- Printer Type:All-In-One Ink Tank Printer
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile
- Included Ink:Up to 3 years
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan
- Print Features:Borderless printing
- Refill System:Mess-free, cartridge-free ink tanks
Our verdict“An excellent choice for families or hobbyists who want to print large quantities affordably.”
Brother Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer MFCL2820DW Bundle
The Brother MFCL2820DW excels for small home offices that require fast, monochrome output without the bulk of larger laser printers. Its impressive 36 ppm speed significantly outpaces inkjet options like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, making it ideal for high-volume black-and-white printing. The 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and multiple connectivity options add versatility. However, this model’s monochrome-only design limits its use for color printing or photo tasks. It’s best suited for users who mainly print text documents and need professional-quality output quickly and reliably, with limited space.
Pros:- Fast printing and scanning speeds
- Compact and space-efficient design
- Multiple connectivity options including Ethernet and USB
Cons:- Monochrome only, no color printing
- Includes a short USB cable which may require an extension
Best for: Small home offices or individuals who print mostly black-and-white documents at high speeds
Not ideal for: Families or hobbyists requiring color printing or photo printing
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
Our verdict“A superb monochrome laser option for users who need speed and efficiency in a limited space.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 stands out for its fast color printing and comprehensive all-in-one features, making it ideal for busy home offices. It offers a smooth balance between speed and quality, outperforming models like the Canon PIXMA TS4320 in terms of print volume and efficiency. Its 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, while wireless connectivity supports mobile printing. The eco-friendly design with recycled plastic enhances sustainability, but it requires original HP cartridges with chips, and firmware updates can be necessary for security. Subscription costs for Instant Ink after the trial can add up for heavy users. This pick makes sense for home professionals needing reliable, high-volume printing in a compact, user-friendly package.
Pros:- Fast color printing suitable for frequent use
- Intuitive 2.7-inch touchscreen interface
- Wireless connectivity with mobile app support
- Eco-conscious design with recycled plastics
Cons:- Requires cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry
- Firmware updates may be needed for security features
- Subscription fee for Instant Ink after the trial
Best for: Home office users who need fast, reliable color printing with multiple functions.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with very limited printing needs, as the cost and complexity may outweigh their requirements.
- Print Speed:Up to 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color
- Paper Capacity:225 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi
- Security:HP Wolf Essential Security
- Recycled Content:Made with more than 45% recycled plastic
Our verdict“This is best for those seeking a versatile, high-volume printer for a home office environment.”
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Home Use
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers excellent value for light home use, especially if occasional printing and scanning are needed. It is more affordable than the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 but provides high-quality prints for documents and photos, making it suitable for families or students. Its straightforward setup and mobile printing capabilities are user-friendly, though the limited media size of 8.5″ x 11″ restricts larger projects. Print speed may be slow for frequent high-volume tasks, and it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models. Compared to the OfficeJet Pro, it sacrifices speed and volume capacity but wins in cost and simplicity. This makes it perfect for those who prioritize affordability and decent quality over speed.
Pros:- Affordable price point
- High-quality photo and document output
- Easy setup with reliable wireless connection
- Supports automatic duplex printing
Cons:- Limited media size (up to 8.5″ x 11″)
- Slower print speeds for high-volume tasks
- Basic features lacking advanced options
Best for: Families or students needing affordable, reliable printing for documents and photos in small batches.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty users or small offices requiring fast, high-volume printing, as it is slower and more basic.
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Media Size:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink
- Certifications:EPEAT Silver, ENERGY STAR
- Media Capacity:Supports small media sizes
Our verdict“This printer suits users who want affordability and quality for light, occasional home printing needs.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wireless Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw delivers impressive speeds for its class, making it a great choice for small teams or home offices with regular document workflows. Its 33 ppm print rate significantly outpaces inkjet options like the OfficeJet 8125, and auto duplexing enhances efficiency. The device’s security features with HP Wolf Pro Security are a plus for sensitive documents, and its easy setup with mobile printing simplifies everyday tasks. However, it’s limited to small office environments with up to 7 users, and it requires original HP cartridges with chips, which can be costly. Compared to multifunction inkjet printers, it excels in speed and security but isn’t suitable for photo printing or color-heavy tasks. This model fits users prioritizing speed, security, and professional document handling.
Pros:- High-speed printing up to 33 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing and scanning
- Secure HP Wolf Pro Security features
- Easy mobile setup and use
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Designed for small office use only
Best for: Small office teams or home-based entrepreneurs needing fast, secure, monochrome document printing and sharing.
Not ideal for: Home users with photo printing needs or those requiring color documents, as it’s monochrome only and optimized for speed over quality.
- Print Speed:Up to 33 ppm
- Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
- Auto 1-sided Scanning:Yes
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Security:HP Wolf Pro Security
- Max Users:7
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small teams or solo professionals focused on fast, secure document processing.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 8139 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8139 extends the capabilities of the 8125 with added features like faxing, making it a comprehensive solution for home offices that handle a variety of document formats. It matches the 8125 in print speed and offers a user-friendly 2.7-inch touchscreen. Its AI-powered formatting and reliable dual-band Wi-Fi make it suitable for professional-looking output. Still, the need for original HP cartridges with specific chips can increase ongoing costs, and firmware updates may be necessary to maintain security. Compared with the 8125, the 8139’s added features might be unnecessary for casual users but valuable for those needing fax or more advanced formatting options. This model suits users who want a multi-purpose device with a touch of extra functionality.
Pros:- Fast color printing and versatile all-in-one functions
- Intuitive 2.7-inch touchscreen interface
- Wireless printing with dual-band Wi-Fi
- Eco-friendly with recycled plastic
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Firmware updates necessary for security
- Subscription fee applies after free trial
Best for: Home office users who need multifunction capabilities including faxing along with high-quality printing.
Not ideal for: Occasional or casual printers who don’t require faxing or advanced formatting, as the extra features add complexity and cost.
- Print Speed:20 ppm black, 10 ppm color
- Input Tray Capacity:225 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:1-year Instant Ink trial
- Material:Made with over 45% recycled plastic
Our verdict“Best suited for home offices needing a versatile, multifunction printer with additional features like faxing.”
HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier
The HP DeskJet 4255e is a compact and affordable choice for very light home use, providing essential functions like printing, copying, and scanning. Its 5.5 ppm color and 8.5 ppm black speeds are modest but sufficient for occasional needs, especially with its simplicity and ease of mobile printing. The device’s small footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, though it lacks duplex printing, which could be a drawback for those wanting automatic double-sided pages. The limited Wi-Fi to 2.4 GHz may cause slower connections in some networks, and it requires HP chips for cartridges, adding to ongoing costs. Compared to larger models, it’s less feature-rich but shines in affordability and space-saving design. Perfect for occasional, budget-minded users who prioritize basic functionality.
Pros:- Very affordable and compact
- Wireless printing with mobile app support
- Eco-friendly with high recycled content
- Easy setup and straightforward operation
Cons:- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- No automatic duplex printing
- Lower print speeds for frequent use
Best for: Individuals or families with minimal printing needs and limited space, who prefer a low-cost, easy-to-use device.
Not ideal for: Heavy or high-volume users, or those needing automatic duplex printing or faster speeds, as it’s designed for simplicity.
- Print Speed:5.5 ppm color, 8.5 ppm black
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz only
- Functions:Print, copy, scan
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Display:Icon LCD
- Recycled Content:At least 60% recycled plastic
Our verdict“Best for budget-conscious users with minimal space and light printing requirements.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer
This model stands out for its all-in-one functionality, combining printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in a compact design. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, the PIXMA TR4720 offers more features like faxing but at the cost of slower print speeds, making it better suited for light home tasks rather than high-volume printing. Its wireless and Alexa compatibility provide seamless mobile printing, while auto duplex printing helps save paper. However, its slower speed may frustrate busy households, and ink cartridges can add ongoing costs. This printer is ideal for families or individuals who need a multi-function device for occasional use without high-volume demands.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality including faxing, copying, scanning
- Supports mobile printing and voice commands
- Auto duplex printing reduces paper usage
Cons:- Print speed may be too slow for frequent high-volume printing
- Limited to light home or small office use, not suitable for heavy workloads
Best for: Home users who need a versatile all-in-one with voice assistant support and occasional printing tasks
Not ideal for: High-volume users or those needing fast print speeds, as slow output may hinder productivity
- Print Speed:Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color)
- Borderless Printing:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Connectivity:Wireless, Alexa compatible
- Power Consumption:7W (active), 0.8W (standby), 0.3W (off)
- Paper Capacity:100 sheets
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for households needing a multi-function device with convenience features but modest speed requirements.”
HP DeskJet 2923 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
This pick makes the most sense for casual users who prioritize affordability and simplicity over speed or volume. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TR4720, the DeskJet 2923 is more straightforward and budget-conscious but offers less advanced features like faxing. Its 6-month Instant Ink trial helps control ongoing costs, and its compact design fits well in small spaces. However, its slower print speeds and basic functionality limit its appeal for heavier workloads or demanding tasks. It’s suitable for students or individuals who mainly print occasional color documents and photos.
Pros:- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Includes 6-month Instant Ink trial for cost savings
- Compact, eco-friendly design with recycled plastics
Cons:- Limited to basic printing and copying needs
- Print speed may be too slow for frequent use
- Ongoing ink subscription costs after trial
Best for: Casual home users seeking an affordable, easy-to-use printer for light tasks
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing environments, where speed and advanced features matter
- Print Speed:Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Included Trial:6 months of Instant Ink
- Sustainable Design:Made with at least 70% recycled plastics
- Certifications:ENERGY STAR, EPEAT
Our verdict“Ideal for budget-conscious households that print occasionally and want straightforward wireless functionality.”
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Automatic Duplex Printing and 1.8” Color Display
This model excels for users who need faster output and more control, thanks to its 16 ppm black and 9 ppm color speeds and a user-friendly 1.8-inch color display. Unlike the Canon PIXMA TR4720, it offers higher speeds suited for small office chores, but it sacrifices some compactness. Its automatic duplex printing and cloud connectivity make it a versatile choice for busy households or small workspaces. The downside is the use of specific ink series, which could increase ongoing costs, and it lacks fax functionality. This printer is well-suited for those balancing home and light work tasks, needing speed and ease of use.
Pros:- Fast print speeds for home and small office
- Color display and cloud app connectivity for easy setup
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
Cons:- Limited to home and small office environments
- Uses specific ink series that may be costly
- No mention of fax functionality
Best for: Home or small office users who require faster printing and easy operation
Not ideal for: Users who want a compact device or don’t need high-speed printing, as the size and ink costs may be drawbacks
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Display:1.8-inch Color Display
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:20-sheet
- Paper Capacity:150 sheets
Our verdict“Perfect for small office users who want quick, reliable color printing with straightforward controls.”
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
This pick makes the most sense for households with heavy printing needs, thanks to its cartridge-free EcoTank system that offers high page yields and minimal ongoing costs. Compared with the HP Envy 6155, the EcoTank provides more economical ink replacement over time, particularly for frequent printing. While it lacks duplex printing, its high-volume capacity and vivid color output appeal to users who print large batches of documents or photos. The tradeoff is the higher upfront cost and the need for genuine ink bottles to maximize performance. This printer is ideal for busy families or small home offices focused on cost-effective, high-volume printing.
Pros:- Cartridge-free design reduces waste and ongoing costs
- High page yield with included ink bottles
- Wireless connectivity for flexible placement
Cons:- Requires genuine ink for best results
- No duplex printing feature
- Higher initial purchase price
Best for: Home users with frequent or large-volume color printing needs who want to reduce ongoing ink costs
Not ideal for: Light users or those preferring quick, low-cost setup, due to higher initial investment
- Print Speed:10 ppm
- Color Printing:Yes
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Ink System:EcoTank supertank
- Print Technology:Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology
- Borderless Photo Printing:Yes
Our verdict“Best suited for high-volume home printing where ongoing savings and large ink yields matter most.”
HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, Scan, Copy, Duplex Printing
This model is ideal for users who prioritize print quality, especially for photos or vibrant color documents. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TR4720, which offers multi-functionality, the HP Envy 6155 emphasizes superior color output and a sleek touchscreen interface. Its 2.4-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and duplex printing adds efficiency. However, its slower speed and reliance on original HP cartridges with chips mean ongoing costs and potential restrictions if non-HP ink is used. For households that print mainly color documents or photos with occasional scanning and copying, it hits the sweet spot. This printer is best suited for creative families or hobbyists who want high-quality output without high-volume demands.
Pros:- High-quality color photo and document printing
- User-friendly touchscreen interface
- Wireless with reliable Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons:- Slow print speeds for large jobs
- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Firmware updates may restrict non-HP cartridges
Best for: Home users focused on photo printing and high-quality color documents
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing environments, due to slower speeds and higher cartridge costs
- Print Speed (Black):10 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):7 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:100 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.4 inches
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Sustainable Content:Made with at least 60% recycled plastic
Our verdict“Perfect for creative households that prioritize high-quality color and photo printing over speed and volume.”
How We Picked
The selection process focused on printers designed specifically for home use, emphasizing performance, reliability, and ease of maintenance. We evaluated each model based on print quality, speed, cost of operation, connectivity options, and user-friendliness. Models that offered a good balance of features for everyday printing without excessive complexity ranked higher. We also considered value for money, factoring in both initial price and ongoing ink or toner costs. The final ranking reflects what features are most beneficial for typical home users, whether they print occasionally or in higher volumes.Factors to Consider When Choosing Printers For Home Use
When choosing a printer for home use, it’s important to consider not just the initial cost but also long-term expenses, functionality, and ease of operation. The right model depends on your specific needs—whether printing photos, documents, or both. Here are key factors to guide your decision:Print Volume and Cost of Consumables
Assess how often you’ll print and choose a printer that matches your volume. Inkjet printers are generally cheaper upfront but can be costly in the long run due to ink replacements, especially for color printing. Laser printers, while more expensive initially, tend to have lower toner costs per page and handle high volumes more efficiently. Ink tank models such as the HP Smart Tank can significantly reduce ongoing costs if you print frequently.
Print Quality and Color Accuracy
If printing photos or color-rich documents, look for a model with high resolution and good color management. Inkjet printers are typically better for detailed photo printing, whereas laser printers focus on crisp text. Consider what matters most for your use—accuracy for images or sharpness for text—before making a decision.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and compatibility with smart devices are increasingly important. A user-friendly interface and straightforward setup can save time and frustration. Some models also support cloud printing or app-based controls, which are useful if multiple family members or devices need access.
Size and Space Requirements
Measure your available space before choosing a printer. Compact models fit well in small areas but may lack certain features like automatic duplex or high-capacity trays. Larger all-in-one units offer more functionality but require more room, so balance your space constraints with your printing needs.
Multifunction Features
Decide if you need scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities. All-in-one printers save space and add versatility but may be more complex to operate and maintain. If your needs are simple, a dedicated printer might be a better, more straightforward choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose an inkjet or laser printer for home use?
For occasional printing, especially color photos or documents with images, an inkjet printer is generally more suitable due to its superior color quality and versatility. If you print frequently or in large volumes, a laser printer can be more cost-effective over time, offering faster print speeds and lower per-page costs. Consider your typical print volume and whether color printing is essential when making this choice.
How much should I expect to spend on ink or toner annually?
Annual costs vary widely depending on usage and printer type. Inkjet printers can cost $50–$150 annually on ink, especially if you print in color regularly. Laser toner cartridges tend to last longer, with costs around $100–$200 for replacements but fewer replacements overall. For high-volume printing, investing in an ink tank model can drastically reduce ongoing expenses.
Is wireless connectivity necessary for home printers?
Wireless connectivity adds convenience, allowing multiple devices to print without cables and enabling mobile printing from smartphones or tablets. If you have a shared home setup or work from multiple devices, Wi-Fi capability is highly beneficial. However, if you print infrequently and prefer a straightforward setup, a wired connection may suffice and could be more reliable in certain environments.
What features should I prioritize if I only need to print documents?
If your primary need is printing text documents, focus on a monochrome laser printer or a basic inkjet with good text quality. Speed, low running costs, and high paper capacity become more important than photo quality or color accuracy. Automatic duplex printing can also save time and paper if you print double-sided often.
Do I need a multifunction printer, or is a single-function printer enough?
If you frequently scan or copy documents, a multifunction printer adds significant convenience and saves space. For simple, occasional printing, a dedicated printer may be simpler and less expensive to operate. Think about your overall workflow and whether multifunctionality justifies the extra cost and complexity.
