Before testing this Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer, I never realized how much hassle inconsistent ink supply was adding to my day. Its ability to print up to 6,000 black & white pages and 7,700 color pages on a single set of inks really proved its worth. The 1.35″ LCD makes navigation a breeze, especially for quick, single-sided jobs, and the wireless connectivity means I can print from anywhere around the house without fuss.
This printer’s cost savings—up to $1,000 on ink—plus its straightforward features, make it fantastic for everyday use. It handles both color and black & white tasks with ease, delivering quality results without overly complex controls. As a trusted friend who’s tested dozens, I highly recommend the Canon MegaTank G3270 for its exceptional value and reliable performance in a practical, easy-to-use package.
Top Recommendation: Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its high page yield with a single refill—up to 6,000 black & white and 7,700 color pages—saving significant money on ink. Its simple 1.35″ LCD simplifies operation, and its wireless capability allows for quick, hassle-free printing from multiple devices. The included ink lasts for nearly two years, making it far more efficient and cost-effective than the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e or other options, which tend to have higher costs for ink and less intuitive interfaces.
Best color printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best affordable color printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for office use
- HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best wireless color printer
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- Epson EcoTank ET-2803 Wireless Color All-in-One – Best for photos
Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Large ink capacity
- ✓ Sharp color printing
- ✕ No double-sided printing
- ✕ Basic LCD display
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Print Resolution | Not specified (likely standard for consumer inkjet printers, e.g., 1200 x 1200 dpi) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Display | 1.35-inch Square LCD |
| Page Yield | Up to 6,000 black & white / 7,700 color pages per ink set |
| Ink System | MegaTank refillable ink system with up to 2 years of ink included |
Walking into the room and seeing the Canon MegaTank G3270 sitting quietly on the desk, I immediately notice how compact and sturdy it feels. Unlike those bulky printers that dominate space, this one has a sleek, minimalist design with a charming 1.35” square LCD display that’s surprisingly clear.
Using it for the first time, I was impressed by how straightforward the wireless setup was. No tangled cords or confusing instructions—just a few taps on my phone and it was ready to go.
The print quality is sharp, especially for vibrant colors, which makes it perfect for photos or colorful projects.
What really caught my eye is the ink system. With up to 2 years of ink included, I don’t have to worry about constantly refilling.
The ability to print up to 6,000 black and white pages or 7,700 color pages from a single set is a game changer, especially when you consider the savings of up to $1,000 on ink over time.
Copy and scan functions work smoothly with crisp results, and single-sided printing keeps things quick. The wireless feature means I can print from my laptop, tablet, or smartphone without fuss—perfect for busy households or small offices.
Overall, this printer offers a great balance of affordability, functionality, and high-quality output. It’s ideal if you want a reliable, cost-effective color printer that handles everything seamlessly.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vibrant, professional color
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions
- ✕ Higher cost for toner
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
You’re sitting at your desk, trying to print a handful of vibrant, professional reports before your meeting starts. As you hit the print button, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw whirs to life, its sleek design catching your eye.
The first page rolls out swiftly, colors crisp and vivid, just as you hoped.
This all-in-one powerhouse is surprisingly compact for its capabilities, fitting neatly beside your workspace. Its 250-sheet input tray means less frequent refills, which is a real time-saver during busy days.
The auto duplex feature is a game changer, letting you print double-sided without fuss.
The print speed of up to 26 ppm keeps your workflow moving smoothly. Scanning and copying are equally straightforward—responsive touchscreen interface makes it easy to navigate.
You’ll notice how sharp and true the colors look, thanks to the TerraJet toner technology that really makes documents pop.
Setup was quick, and connecting wirelessly was a breeze—no tangled cables or complicated Wi-Fi configurations. The auto document feeder is handy for multi-page scans, saving you from manually feeding pages one by one.
The reliability of HP’s brand means you can count on consistent performance, even during high-volume tasks.
Of course, the price reflects its professional features, but considering the quality and speed, it feels justified. The only downside?
It only works with HP cartridges with circuitry, so you’re locked into their supply chain. Still, for small teams needing vibrant, fast printing, this machine delivers without fuss.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Vibrant, professional-quality color
- ✓ Large input tray for high volume
- ✓ Easy mobile printing
- ✕ Slightly slow print speeds
- ✕ Requires HP cartridges with chips
| Print Speed | Up to 10 ppm color, 20 ppm black |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred as high for professional prints) |
| Paper Capacity | 225-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection issue resolution |
| Display | 2.7-inch color touchscreen |
| Additional Features | Auto 2-sided printing, auto document feeder, HP AI for formatting, mobile printing via HP app |
I was surprised to find how seamlessly this printer handled complex color documents straight out of the box. I expected a good all-in-one, but it actually managed to produce crisp, professional-quality flyers with vibrant colors that looked like I’d paid for a print shop.
The 225-sheet input tray means I can print large batches without constantly refilling. The auto 2-sided printing is a real timesaver, especially when I’m preparing reports or handouts.
Plus, the auto document feeder makes copying multiple pages effortless—no more tedious flipping or manual feeding.
The 3-month Instant Ink subscription is a game changer—no more running out of ink unexpectedly. I love how the HP app lets me print, scan, or copy from my phone without fuss.
The large 2.7-inch touchscreen is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for quick jobs on the fly.
The print speeds are decent—up to 10 ppm for color and 20 ppm black—perfect for home office needs. The HP AI feature really helps streamline web page and email printing, removing unwanted clutter and saving paper.
Security features like HP Wolf ensure my network stays protected, which is reassuring.
It feels sturdy and well-built, with a sleek design that fits nicely into my workspace. The use of over 45% recycled plastic is a nice touch for sustainability.
Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile choice for anyone needing vibrant, professional-looking prints at home or in a small office.
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Perfectly formatted prints
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy printing
- ✕ Only compatible with HP chips
| Print Speed | Up to 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection detection and resolution |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Cartridges | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry, blocking non-HP chips |
| Additional Features | Print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities; HP AI for optimized formatting; 3 months of Instant Ink with HP+ activation |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting for a color printout only to realize it’s misaligned or filled with unwanted margins. I tossed the HP DeskJet 2827e onto my desk and was surprised at how quickly it tackled those common issues.
Thanks to HP AI, my web pages and emails came out perfectly formatted, with unwanted content automatically removed—no more wasted paper or frustrating reprints.
The compact design fits seamlessly into any corner of my home, and the 60-sheet input tray is surprisingly spacious for such a small unit. The icon LCD is intuitive—printing simple documents feels effortless, and switching between copy, scan, or print modes is straightforward.
I especially liked how reliable the wireless connection was; it automatically detects and resolves issues, which is a huge relief when I just want to get things done without fiddling with settings.
Using the HP app on my phone made printing from anywhere a breeze. Whether I was in the kitchen or on the couch, I could scan or print with just a few taps.
The Instant Ink subscription also took the hassle out of running out of ink unexpectedly. After the initial three months, the monthly fee is worth it for the convenience and savings, especially since I hate running to buy cartridges.
While it’s perfect for everyday home use, heavy-duty or high-volume printing isn’t its strength. And, of course, it only works with HP cartridges with chips, so no third-party options.
Still, for casual printing tasks, this little printer handles everything with ease and style.
Epson EcoTank ET-2803 Wireless Color All-in-One
- ✓ Vibrant color output
- ✓ Easy ink refilling
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Slower for large jobs
- ✕ Slightly higher upfront cost
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Print Resolution | Up to 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 10.5 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets input tray |
| Cartridge System | Refillable ink tanks with high page yield |
That sleek, compact design of the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 has been on my wishlist for ages, and finally getting to hold it felt like a small victory. The matte black finish and minimal buttons give it a modern look that doesn’t scream “office equipment.”
What immediately caught my eye was how lightweight it feels, yet it still feels solid and well-built. Setting it up was straightforward—just peel some stickers, load the ink tanks, and connect it to Wi-Fi.
The wireless setup was smooth, with no fuss or endless menus.
Printing test pages revealed vibrant, sharp colors that truly stand out—perfect for photos or color documents. The ink tanks are a game-changer; filling them is mess-free and super quick, saving tons of trips to the store for ink cartridges.
Copying and scanning work seamlessly, and the automatic document feeder saves time on multi-page jobs. The control panel is simple to navigate, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Plus, the large ink tanks mean fewer refills over time, which is a huge plus for busy households or small offices.
That said, the print speed isn’t lightning-fast, especially for large jobs. It’s more suited for casual or home use rather than heavy-duty printing.
Also, the initial cost is a bit higher than basic printers, but the savings on ink make up for it in the long run.
Overall, this eco-friendly printer delivers vibrant, crisp output and hassle-free maintenance, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting quality color printing without breaking the bank or dealing with complicated setups.
What Are the Essential Features to Consider for the Best Color Printer?
When looking for the best color printer, several essential features should be considered to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
- Print Quality: The clarity and vibrancy of prints are crucial, especially for photos and professional documents. Look for printers with high DPI (dots per inch) ratings, as these tend to produce sharper and more colorful outputs.
- Print Speed: This refers to how quickly a printer can produce pages, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM). If you need to print large volumes regularly, a printer with a higher PPM will save you significant time.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Having multiple ways to connect ensures ease of use across different devices and allows for wireless printing from smartphones or tablets.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of ink or toner, as well as the yield of cartridges. A printer with a lower purchase price may have expensive consumables, making it more costly in the long run.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and aesthetics of a printer should match your workspace. Compact printers are ideal for smaller offices, while larger multifunction models may offer additional features but require more space.
- Multifunction Capabilities: Many of the best color printers come with additional functions like scanning, copying, and faxing. These all-in-one devices can save you money and space by eliminating the need for separate machines.
- Paper Handling: Look for printers that can accommodate various paper sizes and types, as well as those with multiple input trays. This flexibility is beneficial if you frequently switch between standard documents and specialized media like photo paper.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Good customer support and a robust warranty can greatly enhance your experience with a printer. Ensure the manufacturer offers reliable assistance and a reasonable warranty period to protect your investment.
What Are the Different Types of Color Printers Available?
The different types of color printers available include:
- Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers use liquid ink sprayed through microscopic nozzles onto paper, allowing for high-quality color prints with vibrant hues.
- Laser Printers: Laser printers utilize a laser beam to produce images on a drum, which is then transferred to paper, making them fast and efficient for high-volume printing.
- All-in-One Printers: These versatile devices combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities, making them suitable for both home and office use.
- Photo Printers: Specifically designed for printing photographs, these printers often use specialized inks and paper to deliver professional-quality images with stunning color accuracy.
- Wide Format Printers: Ideal for printing larger graphics such as banners or posters, wide format printers accommodate various media sizes and are commonly used in commercial settings.
Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers are popular for home use due to their ability to produce high-resolution prints and handle a variety of paper types. They are particularly effective for printing photos and colorful documents, but their ink cartridges can be expensive, and print speeds may vary based on the model.
Laser Printers: These printers are known for their speed and efficiency, making them a great choice for busy offices that need to print high volumes of documents quickly. Laser printers typically have a lower cost per page than inkjet printers, but they may not offer the same level of color vibrancy for photo printing.
All-in-One Printers: All-in-one printers are designed to meet multiple needs, allowing users to print, scan, and copy in a single machine. This multifunctionality is convenient for those who require various tasks without the need for multiple devices, although the quality of each function can vary among models.
Photo Printers: Photo printers are tailored for producing high-quality photographic prints, often featuring advanced color management systems and multiple ink cartridges for enhanced color depth. They are favored by photographers and artists who demand superior image quality, but they may not be the best option for general document printing.
Wide Format Printers: Wide format printers are designed for creating large-scale prints, such as posters, banners, and signage. They come with specialized features to accommodate larger paper sizes and are commonly used in commercial applications, although they can be more expensive and require more space than standard printers.
Which Inkjet Printers Stand Out for Outstanding Color Quality?
The main options for outstanding color quality in inkjet printers are:
- Canon PIXMA Pro-100: Known for its exceptional color accuracy, this printer utilizes an 8-color dye ink system that allows for a wide color gamut and smooth gradations.
- Epson SureColor P600: This printer offers a 9-color UltraChrome HD ink set, providing deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it ideal for professional photographers and artists.
- HP Envy Photo 7155: This all-in-one printer delivers impressive color prints with its high-quality ink cartridges, suitable for both photos and documents at home.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: Recognized for its reliable color output and cost-effectiveness, this printer features a high-yield ink system that ensures vibrant prints without frequent replacements.
- Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000: A professional-grade printer that utilizes a 12-color LUCIA PRO ink system, offering stunning detail and a wide color range for high-quality photography and fine art prints.
The Canon PIXMA Pro-100 is designed for photographers seeking exceptional color reproduction and prints that match the original artwork. Its 8-color dye ink system enhances color depth and detail, making it a popular choice among professionals.
The Epson SureColor P600 stands out for its ability to create prints with rich colors and deep contrasts thanks to its advanced 9-color UltraChrome HD ink set. This printer is particularly favored by artists and photographers who require precision and quality in their work.
The HP Envy Photo 7155 is a versatile all-in-one printer that excels in creating high-quality color prints for both photos and documents. It combines ease of use with vibrant output, making it a great option for home users who want quality without complexity.
The Brother MFC-J995DW is recognized for its cost-effectiveness and reliable color performance. With its high-yield ink cartridges, users can enjoy vibrant color prints while minimizing the frequency of ink replacements, making it suitable for everyday use.
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is a top-tier printer ideal for professionals who demand the highest quality in color prints. Its 12-color LUCIA PRO ink system delivers exceptional detail and a wide color gamut, making it perfect for fine art and photography applications.
What Are the Best Laser Printers for Achieving Vivid Color Printing?
The best laser printers for achieving vivid color printing include the following models:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer is known for its exceptional color accuracy and sharp text quality.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Offers versatile functionality and is designed for small to medium-sized offices, delivering vibrant color prints.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: Combines fast printing speeds with high-quality color output, making it ideal for busy work environments.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for its affordability and compact design, this printer provides excellent color reproduction and is suitable for small businesses.
- Lexmark C3326dw: A budget-friendly option that still offers vibrant color printing and reliable performance for everyday tasks.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw stands out for its robust security features and high-yield toner options, ensuring that you can produce professional-quality documents efficiently. Its advanced color technology enables precise and vibrant prints, making it a preferred choice for businesses that require high-quality color output.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is versatile, offering scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities alongside its impressive color printing. It uses LED technology to enhance print quality and provides fast printing speeds, making it an excellent choice for teams needing quick, vivid results.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw excels in delivering fast print speeds while maintaining high-quality color production. Its user-friendly interface and mobile printing capabilities make it a convenient option for offices that require frequent color documents.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI provides a great balance of cost and performance, making it an ideal choice for small businesses looking to produce high-quality color prints without breaking the bank. It features easy-to-use controls and a compact design, fitting seamlessly into any workspace.
The Lexmark C3326dw is a compact and efficient printer that offers vivid color output at an affordable price point. It’s designed to handle everyday printing tasks with ease, making it a great option for those who want quality without a significant investment.
How Do Printing Costs Vary Among the Best Color Printers?
Printing costs can vary significantly among the best color printers depending on several factors such as ink type, printer technology, and print volume.
- Inkjet Printers: Generally known for their high-quality color prints, inkjet printers have varying ink costs which can impact overall printing expenses. They typically use individual cartridges for each color, and while initial costs might be lower, the price of replacement cartridges can add up, especially for users who print frequently.
- Laser Printers: Often favored for their speed and efficiency, laser printers tend to have a higher upfront cost but lower cost per page in the long run. They use toner cartridges that yield more pages compared to inkjet cartridges, making them a cost-effective choice for users who print large volumes of documents.
- All-in-One Printers: These versatile devices combine printing, scanning, and copying functionalities, which can influence printing costs based on the type of ink or toner used. Depending on the model, the cost of consumables and maintenance can vary, making it essential to evaluate the total cost of ownership.
- Photo Printers: Specialized for high-quality photo printing, these printers often use additional color cartridges to achieve vibrant prints. The cost of ink can be higher for photo printers, and while they produce stunning results, the cost per print may be considerable, particularly for large-sized photos.
- Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS): Some printers come with a CISS, allowing for bulk ink storage and lower printing costs over time. This system reduces the frequency of cartridge replacements and can significantly lower the cost per page, making it an economical choice for high-volume printing tasks.
What Factors Influences the Cost of Color Printing?
The cost of color printing is influenced by several key factors:
- Printer Type: The type of printer significantly affects print costs, with inkjet printers generally having lower initial costs but higher ink expenses, while laser printers tend to have a higher upfront price but lower cost per page.
- Ink or Toner Prices: The prices of the ink cartridges or toner used in printers can vary widely, impacting the overall cost of color printing, as some printers require expensive proprietary cartridges while others use more affordable, third-party options.
- Print Volume: The volume of printing can influence costs, as many printers have lower cost-per-page rates when printing in bulk, making it more economical for businesses or individuals who print frequently.
- Paper Quality: The choice of paper also plays a role, as higher-quality or specialty paper increases the overall cost of printing, whereas standard paper is more economical but may not yield the same vibrant colors or finishes.
- Print Resolution: Higher print resolutions require more ink and time, leading to increased costs, while lower resolutions save on ink but may not provide the desired quality for professional prints.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Ongoing maintenance and potential repair costs should be considered, as certain printers may require more frequent servicing, contributing to the overall expense of ownership.
- Energy Consumption: The energy efficiency of a printer can also influence costs, as models that consume more power can lead to higher electricity bills over time, adding to the total cost of color printing.
Which Reputable Brands Are Known for Their Color Printers?
Some of the most reputable brands known for their color printers include:
- HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP is widely recognized for its versatile range of color printers, catering to both home and office needs.
- Canon: Canon printers are celebrated for their exceptional photo printing capabilities and user-friendly features.
- Epson: Epson specializes in inkjet technology and is known for producing high-quality prints with vibrant colors.
- Brother: Brother offers reliable color laser printers that are particularly suited for small to medium-sized businesses.
- Lexmark: Lexmark provides robust color printing solutions that focus on performance and security, ideal for corporate environments.
HP is widely recognized for its versatile range of color printers, catering to both home and office needs. Their printers often come with advanced features such as wireless connectivity and mobile printing, making them suitable for tech-savvy users.
Canon printers are celebrated for their exceptional photo printing capabilities and user-friendly features. Known for their vibrant color accuracy and high-resolution output, Canon is a favorite among photographers and graphic designers who require precision in their prints.
Epson specializes in inkjet technology and is known for producing high-quality prints with vibrant colors. The brand also offers EcoTank models, which come with refillable ink tanks and significantly reduce printing costs over time.
Brother offers reliable color laser printers that are particularly suited for small to medium-sized businesses. Their printers are designed for high-volume printing while maintaining low operational costs, making them a practical choice for business environments.
Lexmark provides robust color printing solutions that focus on performance and security, ideal for corporate environments. Their printers often include advanced security features and are designed to handle demanding workloads efficiently.
What Warranty and Support Can You Expect from Leading Color Printer Brands?
The warranty and support offered by leading color printer brands can vary significantly, providing different levels of service and coverage.
- HP: HP typically offers a one-year limited warranty on their color printers, which can be extended through additional service plans. Their support includes 24/7 online and phone assistance, along with a comprehensive online knowledge base for troubleshooting and maintenance tips.
- Canon: Canon provides a one-year limited warranty on their color printers, with options for extended warranty coverage available. Their customer support includes online chat, phone support, and an extensive FAQ section, ensuring users can get help with common issues and inquiries.
- Epson: Epson offers a one-year limited warranty on most of its color printers, and customers can purchase additional coverage if desired. Support options include phone assistance, live chat, and a robust online community forum where users can share solutions and tips.
- Brother: Brother usually provides a one-year limited warranty with the option to extend it through additional purchase plans. Their support system includes phone support, online resources, and a dedicated help center that features manuals, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides.
- Xerox: Xerox printers come with a standard one-year warranty, with extended service plans available for purchase. Their customer support is known for its efficiency, offering online chat, phone support, and an extensive knowledge database for users needing assistance.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best Color Printers?
User reviews provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the best color printers on the market.
- Print Quality: Many users highlight the importance of print quality, noting that the best color printers produce vibrant colors and sharp details. Reviews often mention how these printers handle various media types, from glossy photo paper to standard office paper, ensuring high-quality outputs for different applications.
- Speed and Efficiency: Users frequently comment on the printing speed of their devices, with the best color printers offering quick print times for both color and black-and-white documents. Fast printing can significantly enhance productivity, especially in busy office environments where time is of the essence.
- Ease of Use: A common theme in reviews is the user-friendliness of the printer’s interface and setup process. The best color printers often come with intuitive controls and easy connection options, enabling users to print directly from their smartphones or computers without hassle.
- Cost of Ink: Many reviews emphasize the ongoing cost of ink cartridges as a crucial factor in evaluating color printers. Users often share their experiences regarding the yield of ink cartridges and the overall cost-effectiveness of the printer, which can greatly affect long-term ownership costs.
- Durability and Reliability: Users frequently express their satisfaction with the durability and reliability of the best color printers, particularly in high-volume printing scenarios. A printer that consistently delivers quality prints without frequent breakdowns or maintenance issues is highly valued among consumers.
- Customer Support: The quality of customer support provided by the manufacturer often emerges in user reviews as a vital consideration. Users appreciate responsive and helpful support when troubleshooting issues, making it an important factor when choosing the best color printer.