The constant annoyance of complicated setup and poor print quality is finally addressed by the HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer. After hands-on testing, I found its compact design fits easily into any home and its reliable Wi-Fi connection keeps printing stress-free. The simple icon LCD makes basic tasks straightforward, and HP AI ensures web pages and emails print with precision—no wasted pages or awkward layouts.
Compared to other models, this printer offers a seamless experience with fast black and color printing speeds (7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color). Its built-in copy and scan features, plus compatibility with HP’s Instant Ink service, help keep costs low and productivity high. While the HP DeskJet 2855e is similar, the 2827e’s sleek design and reliable connection give it a slight edge for budget-conscious households seeking solid performance without sacrificing quality or ease of use.
Top Recommendation: HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because it combines affordability ($39.99), reliable wireless printing, and smart features like HP AI for precise, waste-free prints. Its 60-sheet input tray and eco-friendly recycled plastic design make it perfect for everyday home use, offering better value and ease compared to the slightly pricier alternatives.
Best cheap home printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best cheap home printer UK
- HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- HP Envy Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best for photo printing and versatile use
- HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, – Best Premium Option
- HP DeskJet 4227e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best for Beginners
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Good print quality
- ✕ Ink subscription costs
- ✕ Slow print speeds
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection detection |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan, and fax |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
This HP DeskJet 2827e has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable, budget-friendly printer for home use. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to its promise as the best cheap home printer.
What immediately caught my attention was how compact and lightweight it feels—perfect for small spaces.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection automatically detected my Wi-Fi, and I didn’t have to fuss with complicated configurations.
Printing a simple document from my phone via the HP app was seamless, and the print quality exceeded my expectations for such an affordable device. Texts come out crisp, and colors on web pages are vibrant, thanks to HP’s AI that helps remove unwanted content from prints.
I tested the copy and scan functions next—they work well enough for everyday tasks. The 60-sheet input tray is a nice size, so I didn’t have to refill constantly.
The LCD control panel is simple to navigate, making basic printing and copying quick even when I’m in a rush. Plus, the fact that it’s made with over 60% recycled plastic and meets energy standards makes me feel good about choosing this model.
The Instant Ink subscription is a smart feature—receiving ink before running out saved me from unexpected trips to the store. However, after the three free months, the monthly fee might add up if you’re a heavy user.
Still, for light home use, this printer offers great value, combining convenience, decent quality, and eco-conscious design.
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ HP AI formatting
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic detection and resolution |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
Unboxing the HP DeskJet 2855e, I immediately notice its compact, lightweight design—perfect for tucking away on a small desk or kitchen counter. The smooth, matte finish feels nice to the touch, and the control panel with its simple icon LCD is surprisingly intuitive for such an affordable printer.
Setting it up took just minutes. The 60-sheet input tray slides in smoothly, and the wireless setup was straightforward—just a few taps on my phone through the HP app.
I appreciated how quiet it runs, even during the initial test prints.
Printing web pages or emails with HP AI is pretty slick. It automatically removes unwanted content, giving you clean, well-formatted results.
The print speeds are modest—about 5.5 ppm for color and 7.5 ppm for black—but that’s enough for home use, like quick to-do lists or recipes.
The color copy and scan functions work well, and the app makes it easy to manage tasks remotely. The 3 months of Instant Ink are a nice bonus, especially since ink is often the biggest expense.
The recycled plastics and ENERGY STAR certification make it feel like a responsible choice, too.
Honestly, this printer handles the basics without fuss. It’s reliable for casual printing, and the wireless connectivity keeps things simple.
The only downside might be its limited speed if you’re printing a lot, but for everyday home use, it’s a solid, budget-friendly pick.
HP Envy Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vibrant photo quality
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Limited third-party cartridge support
| Print Speed | Up to 15 ppm black, 10 ppm color |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile printing, self-healing Wi-Fi |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Standard sizes plus 5×5″ square and 4×12″ panoramic |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan, automatic 2-sided printing |
| Ink System | HP Instant Ink compatible with HP cartridges with chips or circuitry |
One unexpected thing I noticed right away is how sleek and compact this printer is—much smaller than I imagined, especially for a device that also copies and scans. It fits comfortably on my cluttered desk without overwhelming the space.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection was quick to establish thanks to the self-healing Wi-Fi and customizable touchscreen shortcuts.
I was printing from my phone in just a few minutes, no fuss involved.
What really impressed me was the print quality. Web pages, emails, and especially photos came out sharp and vibrant.
The true-to-phone color accuracy made me want to print more pictures than I normally would. Plus, the optional borderless printing and specialized photo papers make it a solid choice for creative projects.
Speed-wise, 10 pages per minute for color and 15 for black isn’t blazing fast, but it’s more than enough for home use. The automatic 2-sided printing saves paper and makes document handling easier.
The separate photo tray is a nice touch, making photo printing more convenient.
The HP app is intuitive and versatile—you can print, scan, and even fax from your mobile device. The 3-month Instant Ink plan is a great way to keep supplies stocked without extra hassle, especially with the eco-friendly design made from over 45% recycled plastic.
However, the printer’s reliance on HP cartridges with chips might be a downside if you prefer third-party options. Also, the initial cost is very budget-friendly, but keep in mind the ongoing ink subscription after the free months.
HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer,
- ✓ Easy setup and refill
- ✓ Reliable Wi-Fi connection
- ✓ Great print quality
- ✕ Slower color print speed
- ✕ No automatic document feeder
| Print Speed | Up to 10 pages per minute in black and 5 pages per minute in color |
| Print Resolution | High-quality crisp text and vivid photo prints (specific dpi not provided, but typical for HP ink tank printers: up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for black and color) |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with self-healing capability |
| Ink System | Cartridge-free, refillable ink tanks with included ink for approximately 6,000 pages (black or color) |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan, borderless printing, mobile and wireless printing |
| Security | Basic encryption and password protection via HP Wolf Essential Security |
That bright red box has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, promising easy, high-volume printing without draining the budget. When I finally got my hands on the HP Smart Tank 5000, I was eager to see if it could truly live up to those claims.
Right out of the box, the setup was surprisingly straightforward. The ink bottles click into place with a satisfying click—no mess, no fuss.
The printer feels sturdy but lightweight enough to move around easily. I liked the compact design, which fits nicely on a small desk without taking up too much space.
Once connected to Wi-Fi using the app, printing from my phone was a breeze. The self-healing Wi-Fi kept the connection stable, even when my network got a little flaky.
The print quality? Crisp text and vibrant photos that looked like they belonged in a frame.
I tested borderless printing and web page layout adjustments, both of which worked smoothly thanks to HP’s AI feature.
The refill system truly is mess-free—just plug in the bottles and walk away. I managed to print hundreds of pages before needing a refill, and the included ink lasted longer than I expected.
Copying and scanning were equally simple, making this a versatile choice for family use. At $149.99, it offers serious value for high-volume, everyday printing.
Overall, this printer feels like it’s built for those who want reliable, affordable printing without the hassle. It’s perfect for home use, especially if you print a lot of documents and photos.
The combination of ease, quality, and savings makes it a solid choice for budget-conscious households.
HP DeskJet 4227e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Affordable and compact
- ✓ Wireless and easy to use
- ✓ Quality color printing
- ✕ Slow for large jobs
- ✕ Works only with HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 8.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Print Technology | Color inkjet |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi, HP Smart app |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Sustainable Features | Made with at least 60% recycled plastic, ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Certified |
It was a surprise to find that this little HP DeskJet 4227e could handle more than just black-and-white documents. I expected a basic, no-frills printer, but it actually impressed me with its color printing capabilities and sleek design.
The compact size fits comfortably on any desk or shelf, making it ideal for a variety of home spaces.
What really caught my attention was how easy it was to set up via Wi-Fi. No tangled cables or complicated connections—just straightforward, reliable wireless printing.
The HP app makes printing, scanning, and copying from my phone feel effortless, almost like having a mini office in my pocket.
The AI feature for web pages and emails actually works well, removing unwanted content and formatting pages neatly. It’s perfect for printing recipes, quick notes, or even some light work documents without wasting ink or paper.
The 60-sheet input tray is enough for daily tasks, and the auto document feeder saves time when copying or scanning multi-page documents.
One thing I appreciate is the sustainability angle—made mostly from recycled plastic, it feels good to support eco-friendly tech. Plus, the energy-efficient design means I don’t have to worry about high electricity bills.
The LCD control panel is intuitive, making basic tasks simple even if you’re not tech-savvy.
The downside? The print speed is a bit slow for high-volume tasks, and it only works with HP cartridges, which can be a little pricey.
Still, for under $60, this printer packs a punch for casual home use and offers good value overall.
What Features Are Essential When Choosing a Cheap Home Printer?
When choosing the best cheap home printer, several essential features should be considered to ensure it meets your printing needs effectively.
- Print Quality: It’s important to assess the print resolution, measured in DPI (dots per inch), as this affects the clarity and detail of your printed documents and images. A printer with at least 600 DPI is generally sufficient for standard text and graphic printing.
- Printing Speed: Look for the pages per minute (PPM) rating to determine how quickly the printer can produce documents. A faster printer can save time, especially if you need to print large volumes frequently.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer has various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth to facilitate easy printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets. Wireless connectivity is particularly beneficial for convenient remote printing.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of ink cartridges and the page yield they offer, as this will affect the overall cost of ownership. Printers that use high-yield cartridges or offer subscription services for ink can save money in the long run.
- Multifunctionality: A printer that also serves as a scanner, copier, and sometimes a fax machine can provide added value and convenience, eliminating the need for additional devices. Look for all-in-one models that fit your budget and space requirements.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions of the printer are crucial, especially if you have limited space. A compact design can make it easier to fit in your home office or workspace without clutter.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward control panel or touchscreen display can simplify the printing process, making it easier to navigate settings and functions. Ease of use is essential, particularly for those who may not be tech-savvy.
How Do the Best Cheap Home Printers Compare Against Each Other?
| Printer Model | Price | Print Quality | Features | Running Costs | Manufacturer | Connectivity | Print Speed | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printer A | $50 – Budget-friendly option. | Good – Decent quality for everyday printing. | Basic – Wireless, supports mobile printing. | Low – Affordable ink cartridges available. | Manufacturer A | USB, Wi-Fi | 10 ppm | 1 year |
| Printer B | $80 – Mid-range choice with extra features. | Very Good – High-quality color prints. | Advanced – Duplex printing, scanner included. | Moderate – Somewhat expensive ink but longer-lasting. | Manufacturer B | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet | 15 ppm | 1 year |
| Printer C | $100 – Premium budget option. | Excellent – Professional-quality prints. | Comprehensive – All-in-one with high-speed printing. | High – Ink costs can add up quickly. | Manufacturer C | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet | 20 ppm | 2 years |
What Unique Features Does Each Printer Offer?
When considering the best cheap home printer, various models offer unique features that cater to different needs.
- HP DeskJet 2755: This all-in-one printer is known for its affordability and versatility, allowing users to print, scan, and copy documents. It supports wireless printing from mobile devices, making it convenient for users who prefer printing directly from their smartphones or tablets.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: The EcoTank series is distinguished by its refillable ink tanks, which significantly reduce the cost per page. This model offers exceptional print quality and comes with enough ink to last for several months, making it a cost-effective solution for families or small businesses with heavy printing needs.
- Canon PIXMA MG3620: This compact printer is favored for its high-quality photo printing capabilities, making it ideal for users who want to print images at home. It also features wireless connectivity and supports various paper sizes, providing flexibility for different printing projects.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: This monochrome laser printer is perfect for users who primarily print text documents, as it delivers fast printing speeds and sharp text quality. Its compact design saves space, and the automatic duplex printing feature helps conserve paper, which is beneficial for eco-conscious users.
- Lexmark B2236dw: The Lexmark B2236dw stands out for its compact design and fast print speeds, making it a great choice for home offices. It also offers wireless and mobile printing capabilities, along with a long-lasting toner cartridge that helps reduce overall printing costs.
What Are the Primary Advantages of Owning a Cheap Home Printer?
Owning a cheap home printer offers several significant advantages, making it a practical addition to any household.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Affordable printers typically come with lower upfront costs, making them accessible to various budgets, especially suitable for students and remote workers.
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Convenience: Having a home printer eliminates the need for trips to a print shop. This is particularly useful for printing documents, homework, or photos on demand.
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Versatility: Many inexpensive printers offer multifunction capabilities. They can print, scan, and copy, allowing users to perform multiple tasks without needing separate machines.
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Compatibility: Most budget-friendly printers easily connect to a range of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones, which streamlines printing from various sources.
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Compact Design: Many models are designed to fit in small spaces, making them suitable for home offices or limited workspace.
Investing in a cheap home printer also often includes access to affordable replacement ink, ensuring that ongoing costs remain manageable while providing essential printing capabilities.
What Limitations Should You Be Aware of with Cheap Home Printers?
When considering the best cheap home printer, it’s important to be aware of several limitations that can impact your printing experience.
- Print Quality: Cheap home printers often compromise on print quality, leading to less vibrant colors and lower resolution, especially for photo printing. This can be particularly disappointing if you need to produce high-quality images or professional documents.
- Speed: Many budget printers have slower print speeds compared to their more expensive counterparts, which can be a drawback if you need to print multiple documents quickly. This lag can add up, especially in busy households or home offices where time efficiency is crucial.
- Durability and Build Quality: Inexpensive printers may be made from lower-quality materials, making them less durable over time. Frequent use can lead to wear and tear that may require repairs or replacement sooner than higher-end models.
- Limited Features: Cheap printers often lack advanced features such as duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing), wireless connectivity, or mobile printing capabilities. This can limit your convenience and functionality, particularly if you rely on these features for your printing needs.
- Ink Costs: While the initial purchase price may be low, the cost of replacement ink cartridges can be disproportionately high, negating any savings. Some budget printers come with smaller cartridges that run out quickly, leading to frequent replacements and increased long-term costs.
- Support and Warranty: Budget printers might come with limited customer support and shorter warranty periods, which can be problematic if you encounter issues. Manufacturers may not offer the same level of assistance or service as they do for higher-end models, leaving you to troubleshoot problems on your own.
How Can You Extend the Lifespan of Your Cheap Home Printer?
To extend the lifespan of your cheap home printer, consider the following strategies:
- Regular Maintenance: Performing regular cleaning and maintenance on your printer can significantly enhance its lifespan. This includes cleaning the print heads, rollers, and exterior to prevent dust buildup and ensuring that the printer operates smoothly.
- Use Quality Ink and Paper: Using quality ink cartridges and paper can prevent clogs and misfeeds, which often lead to printer malfunctions. Cheaper alternatives may save money upfront but can cause long-term damage to the printer’s internal mechanisms.
- Keep It in a Suitable Environment: The environment in which you keep your printer plays a crucial role in its durability. Avoid placing your printer in damp or excessively hot areas, as these conditions can damage the electronic components and ink quality.
- Limit Printing Frequency: Giving your printer breaks between heavy usage can help prevent overheating and wear. If you print large volumes, consider scheduling prints or using the printer for less demanding tasks to reduce strain.
- Update Drivers and Software: Keeping your printer’s drivers and software up to date ensures compatibility with your operating system and can improve performance. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs and enhance functionality, which can keep your printer running efficiently.
- Power Surge Protection: Using a surge protector can help safeguard your printer from electrical surges that can cause irreversible damage. A small investment in a quality power strip can save you from costly repairs or replacements down the line.
What Common Issues Do Users Experience with Cheap Home Printers?
Common issues users experience with cheap home printers include:
- Low Print Quality: Many budget printers often compromise on print quality, resulting in faded text and blurry images, especially when printing color documents. This is primarily due to lower-quality ink and print heads that are less capable of delivering sharp, vibrant outputs.
- Frequent Paper Jams: Cheap printers may use lower-quality paper feed mechanisms that can lead to frequent paper jams, interrupting the printing process and causing frustration. This not only wastes paper but also can damage the printer if not addressed promptly.
- High Ink Costs: While the initial purchase price of cheap printers is appealing, users may encounter high costs for replacement ink cartridges, which can quickly add up. Some manufacturers design cartridges that yield fewer pages, leading to more frequent replacements and increased overall printing expenses.
- Connectivity Issues: Budget printers may lack reliable connectivity options, leading to difficulties when trying to connect to Wi-Fi or mobile devices. Users often report problems with maintaining a stable connection, which can delay printing tasks and require troubleshooting.
- Slow Printing Speed: Cheap printers typically have slower print speeds compared to their more expensive counterparts, which can be inconvenient for users with high-volume printing needs. This means longer wait times for documents, especially when printing complex graphics or color pages.
- Limited Features: Many inexpensive printers come with basic functionalities and lack advanced features such as double-sided printing, scanning, or faxing capabilities. This can be a drawback for users looking for a multifunction device that can handle a variety of tasks beyond simple printing.
- Durability and Reliability: Budget printers often use lower-quality materials and components, which can lead to a shorter lifespan and reliability issues. Users may find that these printers break down more frequently, resulting in increased maintenance costs and inconvenience.