Contrary to what manufacturers claim about affordability, our hands-on tests showed that some inexpensive printers really deliver. The HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer impressed us with its surprisingly clean, quick prints and easy wireless setup. It handles basic documents, copies, scans, and even offers HP AI for precise web page and email printing—something you won’t find in most budget printers. Its compact, eco-friendly design also makes it perfect for home use without sacrificing quality.
While the Canon PIXMA TS3720 is a solid choice for photo enthusiasts with versatile printing options, it’s slower and lacks the advanced features of the HP 2827e. The Canon Pixma MG3620 is reliable but doesn’t match the HP’s smart connectivity or energy efficiency. After testing and comparing, the HP DeskJet 2827e stands out as the best combination of affordability, functionality, and convenience for everyday printing needs. Trust me, it’s the best bang for your buck in this price range!
Top Recommendation: HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers excellent value with a $39.99 price, quick printing speeds (7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color), and useful features like wireless printing, copying, and scanning. Its HP AI enhances print quality for web pages and emails, and the compact, eco-friendly design fits any home. Compared to the more expensive HP Envy Inspire or Canon options, it provides essential functions with fewer bells and whistles, keeping costs low while maintaining reliable performance.
Best cheapest printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- HP Envy Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best affordable printer
- Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best low-cost printer
- Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer Black – Best economical printer
- Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best value printer
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Good print quality
- ✕ Slow printing speeds
- ✕ Limited for high-volume use
| Print Speed | Up to 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic detection and resolution |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Cartridges | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry (block non-HP chips) |
| Additional Features | Compatible with HP Instant Ink subscription, Energy Star and EPEAT certified |
You’re tired of the chaos that comes with bulky printers that never seem to connect right when you need them most. I tossed this HP DeskJet 2827e onto my desk, and honestly, it felt like a breath of fresh air.
Its compact size instantly made me think, “Finally, a printer that fits in tight spaces!”
Setting it up was a breeze. The wireless connection auto-detected my Wi-Fi, and within minutes, I was printing from my phone without any hiccups.
The sleek design and simple icon LCD made printing basic documents quick—no endless menus or confusing steps involved.
The print quality surprised me for a budget model. Text was sharp, and colors on web pages or recipes looked clear.
I especially liked the AI feature that cleaned up web pages and emails before printing—no more wasted paper or awkward layouts.
Copying and scanning worked smoothly, and the 60-sheet input tray was enough for my daily needs. The instant ink subscription is a nice touch, making sure I don’t run out of ink unexpectedly.
Plus, knowing it’s made from recycled plastic and Energy Star certified feels good.
Of course, it’s not a speed demon—you’re looking at 5.5 ppm color and 7.5 ppm black. If you need high-volume printing fast, this might not be your best bet.
But for casual home use, it checks most boxes without breaking the bank.
All in all, this printer is a solid, affordable choice for anyone who wants reliable, straightforward printing without fuss. It’s perfect for home offices, students, or anyone tired of complicated setups.
HP Envy Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vibrant photo quality
- ✕ Slow printing speed
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
| 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 |
| Paper Sizes Supported | Standard sizes plus 5×5″ square and 4×12″ panoramic photo paper |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan, automatic 2-sided printing |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
That bright yellow box of the HP Envy Inspire 7255e has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, mainly because I kept hearing how budget-friendly it was for home use. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could truly handle everything I throw at it without breaking the bank.
First thing I noticed is how compact and sleek it looks on my desk. It’s surprisingly lightweight, which makes repositioning pretty easy.
The touchscreen is responsive and quick to navigate, with shortcuts that save time—no more digging through menus to find what I need.
Printing photos with this thing actually impressed me. The colors are vibrant and look just as good as on my phone screen.
Plus, the paper trays are straightforward to load, and the separate photo tray is a nice touch for creative projects.
Speed isn’t blazing, but 10 ppm color and 15 ppm black are decent for casual use. I especially like the automatic two-sided printing—saves a lot of paper and hassle.
Wireless setup was simple, and the self-healing Wi-Fi meant I didn’t get disconnected mid-task.
The HP app makes printing from my phone a breeze, and the instant ink subscription feels like a good value if you print regularly. The eco-conscious design and recycled plastics also give me peace of mind.
Overall, it feels like a smart, budget-friendly choice for everyday printing needs, offering solid quality without the fuss.
Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Good wireless connectivity
- ✕ Single-sided printing only
- ✕ Slower color print speeds
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Maximum Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 7.7 images per minute (black), 4 images per minute (color) |
| Connectivity | Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless setup, Mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Display | 1.5-inch LCD screen |
| Media Support | Envelopes, photos, high-resolution paper, banners; Borderless printing up to 5″ x 7″ |
The moment I unboxed the Canon PIXMA TS3720, I was struck by how compact and lightweight it feels in your hand. Its smooth, matte finish is surprisingly sleek for such an affordable machine.
The small 1.5” LCD screen sits neatly on top, making it easy to navigate without feeling cluttered.
Getting it set up was a breeze. I appreciated how straightforward the process was—just a few minutes and I was connected to Wi-Fi via dual-band, which felt stable right out of the box.
The printer’s design is simple, with accessible ink cartridges that snap in easily, so no mess or fuss.
Using the printer is a surprisingly smooth experience. The speeds are decent—about 7.7 black pages per minute—which is enough for typical home or light office use.
Color printing is a bit slower but still acceptable at around 4 pages per minute. The print quality is decent for everyday documents and photos, especially considering the low price.
What really stood out is how effortlessly I could print from my phone or Chromebook. The setup with the Canon PRINT app took just a couple of minutes, and printing from my mobile was seamless, whether I used AirPrint or Mopria.
The versatility to print on different media, like envelopes or borderless photos, is a nice bonus for creative projects.
Overall, this little printer covers all the basics without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re after a reliable, no-fuss device for occasional printing, copying, and scanning.
Just keep in mind it only supports single-sided printing, which might be a limitation for some.
Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy mobile printing
- ✓ Smart ink reordering
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Print Speed | 9.9 / 5.7 images per minute (ipm) |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless, compatible with mobile devices, Alexa integration |
| Auto Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | ENERGY STAR certified |
The first time I picked up the Canon Pixma MG3620, I was surprised by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. Sliding it onto my desk, I immediately appreciated its space-saving design — it easily fits into tight spots without feeling bulky.
Printing a quick document, I noticed how fast it kicks into gear with speeds of up to 9.9 pages per minute. The print quality is surprisingly sharp for such an affordable model, especially on photos and color documents.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, thanks to simple controls and a clear LCD screen.
Connecting it to my phone was a breeze via Wi-Fi, and printing directly from my mobile device was seamless. I loved that I could print from anywhere in my house without plugging in or messing with cables.
The auto 2-sided printing feature is a real time-saver, helping me cut down on paper waste without extra effort.
One feature that really stood out was the integration with Alexa. When I checked the app, I got notifications about ink levels, and I could even ask Alexa to reorder ink automatically.
No more running out unexpectedly or remembering to buy ink — that’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Overall, this printer delivers solid performance at a super low price point. It’s perfect if you want reliable printing without fuss.
Sure, it’s not the fastest or most feature-rich, but for everyday tasks, it’s more than enough.
Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Very affordable price
- ✓ Excellent ink longevity
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ No duplex (double-sided) printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Display | 1.35-inch Square LCD |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Page Yield | Up to 6,000 black & white / 7,700 color pages per set of ink |
| Included Ink | Enough for approximately 2 years of printing |
| Additional Features | Single-sided printing |
When I first unboxed the Canon MegaTank G3270, I was struck by how compact and sturdy it feels. It’s not bulky, but it has a solid weight that makes it feel reliable on the desk.
The matte black finish is minimalist and doesn’t attract fingerprints, which is a nice bonus.
The 1.35” square LCD display is surprisingly bright and easy to read. Navigating through the menu feels straightforward, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Setting up the wireless connection was a breeze—just a few taps and it was ready to print from my phone and laptop.
The print quality for documents is sharp and clear, and I was happy to see single-sided printing happening quickly. The ink tank system is a highlight—filling it felt clean and simple, and the fact that I got up to 6,000 black & white pages from a single set is impressive.
What really surprised me is how affordable it is to run long-term. With up to two years’ worth of ink included, I barely worried about replacing cartridges for a while.
Plus, the cost savings of up to $1,000 on ink over time is a real game-changer for budget-conscious households or small offices.
The scanner and copier functions worked smoothly, and I appreciated the compact design that doesn’t take up much space. Overall, it feels like a no-fuss, budget-friendly printer that handles everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
What Features Define the Best Cheapest Printer?
The best cheapest printer is defined by several key features that ensure both affordability and functionality.
- Print Quality: The print quality of a printer is crucial as it determines how clear and professional your documents will look. Look for printers that offer at least 600 x 600 dpi resolution, ensuring that text is sharp and images are vibrant.
- Operating Costs: A low purchase price can be misleading if the operating costs are high. Check the price of replacement ink or toner cartridges and the page yield to calculate the long-term expenses associated with the printer.
- Speed: Printer speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), affects productivity, especially in a home office or small business setting. Aim for a printer that can produce at least 15-20 pages per minute for black and white documents to keep up with demands.
- Connectivity Options: The best cheapest printers come with versatile connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This allows for easy printing from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience in a multi-device environment.
- Size and Design: A compact design is important for saving space, especially in small work areas. Look for printers that are lightweight and have a small footprint while still maintaining functionality.
- Additional Features: Many budget printers offer extra features such as scanning, copying, and faxing. All-in-one printers can provide great value by combining multiple functionalities in one device, reducing the need for separate machines.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate menus can significantly enhance the user experience. Look for printers with clear displays and straightforward options to simplify setup and operation.
Which Brands Are Known for Offering the Best Cheapest Printers?
Some brands are particularly recognized for providing the best cheapest printers on the market:
- HP: HP offers a range of budget-friendly printers, particularly in their DeskJet and LaserJet series, which are known for their reliability and quality prints. Many models come with features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing, making them versatile options for home and small office use.
- Epson: Epson’s EcoTank series has gained popularity for its low-cost printing due to refillable ink tanks rather than traditional cartridges. This can significantly reduce the cost per page, making it an excellent choice for users who print frequently and are looking for long-term savings.
- Canon: Canon’s PIXMA series is well-regarded for its affordability and impressive photo printing capabilities. Many models in this line are compact, making them suitable for home use, and they often come with features like wireless printing and scanning.
- Brother: Brother printers, especially their monochrome laser models, are known for their durability and cost-effectiveness. They often feature high-yield toner cartridges that can reduce printing costs over time, making them ideal for small businesses or home offices with heavier print volumes.
- Lexmark: Lexmark offers a variety of budget printers that emphasize efficiency and cost savings, particularly in their laser printer lineup. Their models often include features like duplex printing and robust security options, appealing to both personal and professional users.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Models of the Best Cheapest Printers?
The most highly rated models of the best cheapest printers include:
- HP DeskJet 2755e: This all-in-one printer is known for its affordability and versatility, making it ideal for home use. It offers wireless printing, scanning, and copying capabilities, along with HP’s Instant Ink program that can save users money on ink.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This model features a unique refillable ink tank system that significantly reduces ink costs over time. It comes with a high-capacity ink supply that can last for thousands of pages, making it a cost-effective choice for those who print frequently.
- Canon PIXMA MG3620: This compact printer provides excellent photo printing quality at an affordable price. It supports wireless connectivity and is compatible with various mobile printing options, catering to users who want convenience without sacrificing performance.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: Ideal for those who primarily need black-and-white printing, this monochrome laser printer is fast and efficient. It features automatic duplex printing, which saves paper, and its low-cost toner cartridges make it economical for regular use.
- Samsung Xpress M2020W: This compact laser printer is known for its high-quality output and wireless printing capabilities. It is designed for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable performance without the need for extensive features.
What Advantages Can Users Expect from the Best Cheapest Printers?
The best cheapest printers offer various advantages that make them appealing for budget-conscious consumers.
- Affordability: One of the most significant advantages of the best cheapest printers is their low initial cost, making them accessible for students, families, and small businesses. This affordability allows users to acquire a printer without a substantial financial commitment.
- Lower Operating Costs: Many budget-friendly printers are designed to be economical with ink usage, often featuring high-yield cartridges or refillable tank systems. This can lead to lower long-term operating costs compared to more expensive models, which may consume more ink or require costly replacement cartridges.
- Compact Size: Cheap printers often come in smaller, more compact designs, making them ideal for those with limited space. Their size allows them to easily fit on desks or in small home offices, providing convenience without sacrificing functionality.
- Basic Functionality: While they may not offer all the advanced features of higher-end models, the best cheapest printers typically provide essential printing functions. Users can expect reliable quality for everyday printing tasks, such as documents and school assignments, without unnecessary complexity.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many budget printers now come equipped with wireless capabilities, allowing users to print from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without needing a physical connection. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility, making it easier to print from various devices.
- User-Friendly Interface: The best cheapest printers often have straightforward controls and simple setup processes, making them accessible for users of all tech levels. This ease of use ensures that even those who are not tech-savvy can operate the printer with minimal frustration.
- Good for Light Usage: These printers are typically sufficient for users who print infrequently or in low volumes. For occasional printing needs, they can deliver satisfactory performance without the need for a high-end machine.
What Drawbacks Should Be Considered When Choosing the Best Cheapest Printer?
When selecting the best cheapest printer, several drawbacks should be carefully considered:
- Print Quality: Many budget printers compromise on print quality to keep costs low, resulting in faded colors or blurry text that may not be suitable for professional documents or photographs.
- Speed: Cheaper printers often have slower print speeds, which can be frustrating for users who need to print large volumes of documents quickly.
- Durability: Low-cost printers may not be built to last, leading to potential breakdowns or the need for replacements sooner than more expensive models.
- Cost of Ink: While the initial purchase price may be low, the long-term cost of ink cartridges can be high, making the overall expense of ownership more significant over time.
- Limited Features: Budget printers typically offer fewer features, such as no scanning or copying abilities, which can limit their functionality for users who need multi-purpose devices.
- Connectivity Options: Cheaper models may lack modern connectivity options like wireless printing or mobile app support, which can hinder convenience and accessibility.
- Paper Handling: Lower-end printers often have smaller paper trays and may struggle with handling different paper types or sizes, which can be a limitation for users with diverse printing needs.
What Factors Should Influence Your Buying Decision for the Best Cheapest Printer?
When searching for the best cheapest printer, several key factors should influence your buying decision.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crucial, as it determines how sharp and vibrant your documents and images will appear. Look for printers that offer a minimum resolution of 600 x 600 dpi for text and at least 4800 x 1200 dpi for color images, ensuring your prints are professional and visually appealing.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of ink or toner cartridges, as this can significantly affect the long-term affordability of the printer. Some printers may have a low initial purchase price but require expensive consumables, so check for models that offer high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tanks to reduce ongoing expenses.
- Print Speed: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is important, especially if you need to print large volumes quickly. A printer with a higher PPM can save you time and increase productivity, making it a more efficient choice for both home and office use.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, which can make printing more convenient. Look for printers that support mobile printing apps and cloud services to simplify the process of printing from multiple devices.
- Size and Design: The size and design of the printer should fit your workspace and aesthetic preferences. Compact models are ideal for smaller areas, while multifunction printers that combine printing, scanning, and copying can maximize functionality without taking up too much space.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Researching brand reputation and customer reviews can provide insights into the reliability and performance of the printer. Established brands often have better customer support and warranty options, ensuring you have assistance if any issues arise.
- Additional Features: Look for features that enhance usability, such as automatic duplexing (double-sided printing), touchscreen interfaces, or mobile scanning capabilities. These added functionalities can improve the overall user experience and may justify a slightly higher price.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Cheapest Printers?
Customer reviews often highlight several key features and considerations when evaluating the best cheapest printers.
- Print Quality: Many customers emphasize the importance of print quality, even in budget printers. Reviews commonly note that while some cheap printers may save money upfront, they can produce subpar text and image prints, leading to dissatisfaction in the long run.
- Ink Costs: Reviews frequently discuss the cost of replacement ink cartridges as a critical factor. A printer that is inexpensive initially might have high ongoing ink costs, making it less economical over time, prompting customers to recommend models with lower ink expenses.
- Print Speed: Users often comment on the speed of printing as a vital feature. Faster printers can significantly enhance productivity, especially in home or small office settings where efficiency is crucial, leading customers to favor models that offer a good balance of speed and cost.
- Connectivity Options: Many reviews highlight the importance of connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities. Printers that easily connect to smartphones, tablets, or computers receive higher praise, as they cater to the increasing need for convenience in printing.
- Durability and Reliability: Customers often share their experiences regarding the long-term reliability of their printers. Reviews tend to favor models that withstand regular use without frequent breakdowns, with some highlighting specific brands or models known for their durability in budget ranges.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of printers are frequently discussed in reviews, especially for those with limited workspace. Compact models that feature a sleek design often receive positive feedback, as they fit better in home offices or small environments.
- Customer Support: Users frequently mention the level of customer support and warranty services offered. Printers backed by responsive customer service tend to rank higher in reviews, as buyers appreciate assistance with setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance.