Top 12 Best Low Cost Color Printer That Will Surprise You!

Finding a reliable color printer that delivers good quality without stretching your budget can be challenging. Many affordable models often compromise on print clarity or have expensive ink refills. The best low cost color printer offers a practical solution for those who need decent color printing at an affordable price.

The best low cost color printer offers a practical solution for those who need decent color printing at an affordable price. This type of printer is ideal for students, small home offices, or anyone who prints occasionally but wants color output without high running costs. It balances cost efficiency with satisfactory print quality and user-friendly features.

In this review, we will explore the key aspects of this printer, including print performance, operating costs, and ease of use. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether it fits your needs and expectations.

Affordable Options That Deliver Vibrant Prints Without Breaking the Bank

Image	Product	Price
Our Top Picks 1	HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,	Check Price
Our Top Picks 2	Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Duplex Printing,	Check Price
Our Top Picks 3	HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer, Scanner, Copier	Check Price

1. HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,

Discover a reliable printing solution designed for everyday home use with the HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer. Its compact design fits perfectly in small spaces, making it an ideal choice for printing everything from to-do lists to important documents. Enjoy easy wireless connectivity and convenient mobile printing options.

Combining printing, scanning, and copying in one device, it balances functionality and simplicity for users needing versatility. Fast print speeds help you stay productive without lengthy waits, while the color output enhances your documents with vivid detail.

The HP DeskJet 2855e offers clear and sharp prints, supporting a variety of media such as envelopes and glossy photo paper. Printing web pages and emails is streamlined by intelligent formatting that removes unwanted content, saving paper and ink.

Its user-friendly design includes a 60-sheet input tray and an LCD display for easy operation.

Wireless printing is reliable and seamless, with built-in Wi-Fi that fixes connection issues automatically. Compatible with smartphones, tablets, and PCs, it provides flexible control through the HP app for printing, scanning, and faxing remotely. The inkjet technology supports high-resolution color printouts up to 4800 x 1200 dpi for crisp images and text.

At around 10 pounds, the printer is portable enough for moving around home or office spaces without hassle. Ideal for users who require straightforward functionality combined with dependable performance.

Pros

• Wireless connectivity with automatic connection issue resolutions
• All-in-one device with print, scan, and copy functions
• Intelligent printing with AI formatting for efficient page use

Cons

• Supports only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi bands, limiting compatibility with some networks

Combining essential functions with smart features makes the HP DeskJet 2855e a strong candidate for home use or small office needs. The versatile media support and straightforward wireless setup contribute to a smooth user experience. Below is a detailed specification overview to help with your review before purchase.

For users prioritizing a compact and affordable all-in-one, the HP DeskJet 2855e offers reliable wireless printing alongside scanning and copying features. Its simple setup and mobile app support deliver convenience not always found at this level.

While limited to 4 GHz Wi-Fi, it remains a strong choice for those with compatible home networks seeking functional, everyday printing.

2. Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Duplex Printing,

Experience high-quality printing combined with impressive versatility using the Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer. Designed for efficiency and style, this printer delivers vibrant color prints and sharp text, suitable for home offices and hybrid work settings.

Its compact design fits perfectly in any workspace without sacrificing functionality.

With seamless wireless connectivity and easy setup, printing, scanning, and copying become hassle-free. The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system ensures crisp images and documents. Advanced features, like automatic duplex printing and diverse media support, allow for eco-conscious and creative use, all wrapped in a budget-friendly package.

The Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability. Equipped with a hybrid ink system, the printer produces sharp black text and vivid color images perfect for documents and photos. Compact dimensions make it unobtrusive, ideal for limited spaces without compromising print quality.

Compact dimensions make it unobtrusive, ideal for limited spaces without compromising print quality. Its capability to handle various media such as card stock, envelopes, and glossy photo paper adds to its versatility.

Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a steady connection whether printing from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Supported by apps like Canon PRINT, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service, mobile printing becomes straightforward.

Setup is intuitive, allowing users to begin printing or scanning without delay. The printer’s efficient ink usage paired with ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver certification highlights its environmental consideration.

Overall, its user-friendly features, combined with consistent output, provide strong value for everyday printing needs.

Pros

• High-quality prints with a hybrid ink system for sharp text and vibrant colors
• Stable wireless connectivity via dual-band Wi-Fi for flexible printing options
• Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use and speeds workflow

Cons

• Maximum copy speed of 11 ppm may be slower for heavy office use

This Canon printer blends affordability with essential multifunction features, making it a practical choice for home and small office environments. Its compact size and user-focused design simplify daily printing tasks while supporting eco-friendly practices.

In my opinion, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 serves well for users who require reliable wireless printing with photo-quality output on a budget. Although it is not designed for heavy-duty office workloads, its ease of use and diverse media compatibility make it a suitable choice for casual users and home offices targeting color print needs efficiently.

3. HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer, Scanner, Copier

Discover a reliable all-in-one solution designed to simplify your printing tasks while saving you money. The HP Smart Tank 5100 delivers consistent performance for high-volume printing, making it perfect for home offices and small businesses alike.

Experience convenience with wireless connectivity and versatile functions including printing, scanning, and copying. This model supports borderless prints and mobile device printing, enhancing flexibility for various projects.

The HP Smart Tank 5100 offers a seamless refillable ink system that eliminates mess and waste. The cartridge-free ink tanks allow you to replenish ink bottles easily without spills or squeezing.

Performance-wise, it produces sharp text and vibrant colors thanks to HP’s thermal inkjet technology. Print speeds reach up to 10 pages per minute for black-and-white copies.

The flatbed scanner adds versatility by allowing document scanning directly to PDF format.

Designed with wireless printing capabilities, you can effortlessly print from laptops, smartphones, or tablets. Its compact dimensions and lightweight build make it suitable for various workspace sizes without creating clutter. Overall, this printer blends affordability with efficiency, targeting users who demand cost-effective, high-volume color printing and multifunctionality.

Pros

• Mess-free, easy-to-refill ink tank system
• Wireless printing from multiple devices including smartphones
• High volume printing with up to 6,000 pages of ink included

Cons

• Maximum copy speed is modest at 10 pages per minute

The HP Smart Tank 5100 balances performance, affordability, and convenience, making it a smart choice for those needing consistent, low-cost color printing. Its user-friendly refill system and wireless functions stand out among similar printers in this category, providing excellent value without compromising quality.

For users seeking a practical printer that reduces ongoing ink expenses, this model offers outstanding convenience. Its straightforward interface and wireless capabilities satisfy everyday printing needs, making it a reliable addition to any workspace.

4. Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex Printing, White

Discover an affordable color printing solution that balances quality and convenience effortlessly. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers versatile features suited for home offices and casual users. Its sleek design fits well in any setting without occupying much space.

Its sleek design fits well in any setting without occupying much space.

Enjoy vibrant prints and reliable wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi for seamless operation. This model combines essential functions to meet everyday printing, scanning, and copying needs.

Offering true affordability without compromising performance, Canon’s PIXMA TS6520 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed to support diverse tasks. It uses a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system delivering sharp text and vivid photos. This results in impressive clarity and color quality on various media types up to letter size.

This results in impressive clarity and color quality on various media types up to letter size.

The device supports automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and time while enhancing productivity. Its built-in scanner and copier simplify document handling and increase workflow efficiency.

A compact footprint and a 42” monochrome OLED display make monitoring the printer’s status straightforward.

Setup is streamlined for smartphones and computers through popular apps and services, including Canon PRINT App, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connectivity, preventing common interruptions.

Pros

• High-quality, vibrant prints with hybrid ink technology
• Automatic duplex printing for efficient paper use
• Easy wireless setup and mobile printing support

Cons

• Limited to 11 pages per minute in black and white copying speed

The Canon PIXMA TS6520 delivers dependable performance for everyday printing tasks with added features usually found in higher-priced models. It offers an excellent balance between print quality, functionality, and compact design. For those who prioritize vibrant prints and easy wireless connectivity, it stands as a practical choice.

Overall, the PIXMA TS6520 suits users seeking a reliable and compact color printer with versatile features. Its ease of setup and quality output make it a solid option for casual and home office environments. This model performs confidently alongside similar units while providing consistent wireless convenience and quality.

This model performs confidently alongside similar units while providing consistent wireless convenience and quality.

5. Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with

Experience seamless printing with the Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer. Designed for both home and small office settings, it combines printing, copying, and scanning into one compact device. Enjoy vibrant color output that enhances every document and photo with remarkable clarity.

This printer offers straightforward cloud connectivity and smart features, putting professional results within easy reach. Its wireless capabilities and user-friendly interface simplify your workflow and keep productivity high across tasks.

The Brother Work Smart 1360 stands out with multifunctional efficiency in a slim design perfect for limited spaces. It prints, copies, and scans with quality inkjet technology, delivering up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color. A 20-sheet automatic document feeder and a 150-sheet paper tray reduce manual input and support busy workloads.

A 20-sheet automatic document feeder and a 150-sheet paper tray reduce manual input and support busy workloads.

Automatic duplex printing allows double-sided printing without extra effort, saving paper and time. Easy cloud integration enables direct access to Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive from the

Options to connect wirelessly or via USB ensure flexibility for laptops, smartphones, tablets, and PCs.

Powered by the Brother Mobile Connect app, users can control printing, copying, scanning, and maintenance remotely. The Page Gauge feature alerts ink levels, helping to avoid unexpected interruptions.

Energy Star certification reflects its efficiency, combining reliability with eco-conscious performance. Suited for home users and home offices, it delivers professional quality without occupying much space.

Pros

• Automatic duplex and 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder enhance productivity
• Supports multiple cloud services via built-in app for easy file access
• Mobile app offers remote device control and ink monitoring

Cons

• Color print speed is moderate compared to some competitors

With versatile features and solid build quality, the Brother Work Smart 1360 delivers excellent functionality in a compact package. Its combination of wireless convenience, cloud compatibility, and automatic duplex printing makes it a standout choice for home offices seeking efficiency and vibrant output.

Below is a detailed specification overview for your reference.

Choosing the right printer often means balancing quality, functionality, and convenience. The Brother Work Smart 1360 stands well against competitors by offering essential features such as easy wireless setup and cloud connectivity. For users looking to streamline home or home office printing with reliable color output, it represents a dependable and smart investment.

6. HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner,

Experience effortless printing with the HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer. Designed for those who need reliable and high-volume color printing, it combines convenience with outstanding efficiency. Its wireless features and cartridge-free ink tank provide a mess-free refill experience that saves time and money.

Its wireless features and cartridge-free ink tank provide a mess-free refill experience that saves time and money.

Whether printing documents, copying, or scanning, this printer delivers clear and vibrant results. Ideal for home offices, students, and small businesses, it ensures you get more prints without frequent ink replacements.

The HP Smart Tank 5003 stands out as a versatile all-in-one device, offering print, copy, and scan capabilities in one compact unit. It supports borderless printing and connects seamlessly with mobile devices for wireless convenience. With up to 6,000 color or black pages included, the ink tank supports extended use without interruption.

With up to 6,000 color or black pages included, the ink tank supports extended use without interruption.

Its thermal inkjet technology produces sharp text and vibrant colors, making documents and photos visually impressive. The mess-free refill system uses specially designed ink bottles that easily drain into the tank, minimizing spills and waste.

This feature ensures users spend less time on maintenance and more on productive tasks.

Measuring 23 inches in depth,

19 inches in height, it fits comfortably on a desk. The flatbed scanner adds to its practicality, while mobile printing options enable you to print directly from smartphones and tablets.

Its single tray and one processor support smooth operation and quick access.

Pros

• Up to 3 years of included ink supplies for low operating costs
• Wireless connectivity with easy mobile device printing
• Mess-free, cartridge-free refill system for convenience

Cons

• Maximum print speed of 10 ppm may be slow for very large jobs

This all-in-one printer offers a great balance between functionality and cost-efficiency. It fits well in environments where reliable color printing is needed without constant maintenance.

From my point of view, the HP Smart Tank 5003 is an excellent choice for users prioritizing ease of use and economical printing. Its ink tank system and wireless features provide a smooth experience. This model is especially appealing for those seeking a dependable color printer that balances performance and value.

This model is especially appealing for those seeking a dependable color printer that balances performance and value.

7. HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,

Discover the HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer designed for everyday printing needs. It combines printing, scanning, and copying capabilities in a compact and user-friendly package.

Whether working on to-do lists, recipes, or financial documents, this multifunction device delivers crisp results. Its wireless connectivity and mobile app compatibility offer convenient printing from smartphones or laptops without hassle.

The HP DeskJet 4355 supports color printing, copying, and scanning with an efficient 35-sheet auto document feeder. It also includes a 60-sheet input tray, minimizing frequent paper refills. The printer’s AI integration enhances print formatting by removing unwanted content, optimizing web pages and emails for better layouts and reduced waste.

The intuitive icon LCD panel makes operating essential functions straightforward. With print speeds of up to 5 ppm for black and

5 ppm for black and 5 ppm for color documents, it suits moderate printing volumes. Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable wireless connections by automatically detecting and resolving issues.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the unit uses at least 70% recycled plastics and meets ENERGY STAR and EPEAT standards. The compact design fits neatly into small spaces, supporting eco-conscious users without sacrificing quality.

Pros

• Supports wireless and mobile device printing for added convenience
• Includes a 35-sheet auto document feeder for efficient multitasking
• Sustainable design using recycled plastics and energy-saving certifications

Cons

• Print speed may be slower compared to higher-end color printers

The HP DeskJet 4355 balances essential printing functions with eco-friendly features and ease of use. It offers a well-rounded experience for those needing everyday document handling without complex settings.

For users seeking an affordable, straightforward all-in-one printer, the HP DeskJet 4355 offers consistent functionality and easy wireless printing. Its focus on sustainability and simple operation makes it a practical option for home or small office environments where essential color printing is required.

8. HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer, Scanner, Copier

Discover a printing solution designed to keep up with your busy lifestyle. The HP Smart Tank 5100 combines wireless convenience with a refillable ink system that is both mess-free and cost efficient.

It offers versatile functionality, blending printing, scanning, and copying into one sleek device.

Perfectly suited for home or office use, this all-in-one printer minimizes maintenance efforts while maximizing output capacity. Enjoy vibrant color prints, crisp text quality, and the freedom of mobile printing without any hassle.

The HP Smart Tank 5100 stands out with its cartridge-free ink tank system, which allows for hassle-free refilling. Ink bottles fit easily into the tanks without spills or mess, supporting high-volume printing needs effectively.

With an ability to deliver up to 6,000 color or black pages right out of the box, it handles both the demands of everyday printing and occasional photo projects. The flatbed scanner works smoothly for copying and PDF scans, complementing the printer’s tasks. Wireless connectivity enables printing directly from phones, tablets, and laptops, simplifying your workflow.

Wireless connectivity enables printing directly from phones, tablets, and laptops, simplifying your workflow.

Manufactured with durability and efficiency in mind, it weighs just over 11 pounds and fits comfortably into standard desk spaces. Borderless photo printing enhances creativity, while the one-tray system keeps operation straightforward. This printer is a great fit for small businesses and busy households looking for a reliable, cost-effective machine.

Pros

• Mess-free, refillable ink tanks reduce waste and operating costs
• Supports wireless and mobile device printing for convenience
• High-capacity ink supply provides up to 6,000 pages of printing

Cons

• Maximum copy speed of 10 ppm may be slower for heavy office use

Offering an excellent balance of affordability and functionality, the HP Smart Tank 5100 is a dependable choice. Its ease of use and substantial ink supply cater well to households and small workgroups who value efficiency.

Users can expect solid print outcomes with minimal fuss. Below is a detailed specification table to help you examine its technical aspects clearly.

In my experience, the HP Smart Tank 5100 shines when it comes to balancing economy with quality. It simplifies routine printing tasks and lowers running costs without sacrificing print clarity.

9. HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner,

Discover printing convenience with the HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer. Designed for efficiency and ease, it combines printing, scanning, and copying into one compact device.

Its innovative ink tank system promises high volume output without constant refilling.

Enjoy vibrant color prints and sharp text at a low cost. Whether working from a laptop or smartphone, wireless connectivity keeps your workflow seamless and flexible.

This printer is built to support various media types and offers borderless printing for exceptional results.

The HP Smart Tank 6003 delivers reliable performance for homes and small offices needing frequent, colorful prints. This all-in-one device integrates print, copy, and scan functions, making routine tasks straightforward.

Its cartridge-free ink tank system eliminates mess, allowing easy refills through specially designed bottles.

Capable of producing up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black-and-white pages with included ink, it suits users with high printing demands. Wireless printing from phones or tablets adds convenience, while support for glossy photo paper expands creative options. The flatbed scanner enables quick digital copies and scanning to PDF format.

The flatbed scanner enables quick digital copies and scanning to PDF format.

Compact in size and weighing just over 14 pounds, the printer balances space-saving design with robust functionality. It handles copy speeds up to 11 pages per minute, ensuring steady workflow.

The sharp print quality, bolstered by HP’s thermal inkjet technology, results in crisp text and rich colors. This model is ideal for those prioritizing cost efficiency without compromising output quality.

Pros

• Mess-free refill system with leak-proof ink bottles for hassle-free maintenance
• High-volume ink supply included for up to 3 years of printing without extra purchases
• Supports wireless and mobile printing for versatile device compatibility

Cons

• Print speed may be slower compared to some other models in its category

The HP Smart Tank 6003 stands out for its cost-effective ink solution and multi-function capabilities, making it a practical choice for users with high-volume printing needs. Its easy refill system reduces downtime and mess, enhancing overall user experience.

Compared to traditional cartridge printers, this model offers more affordable long-term operation and excellent print quality.

In my opinion, the HP Smart Tank 6003 is a highly capable printer for anyone seeking an affordable printing solution without sacrificing quality. Its smart ink system and wireless features make printing easier, especially for frequent use at home or small offices.

10. Brother INKvestment 4355 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with 1.8”

The Brother INKvestment 4355 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer is designed to enhance productivity in home offices and small business settings. Combining printing, copying, scanning, and faxing functions, it offers a compact yet versatile solution for all your document needs.

With high-capacity ink cartridges and advanced wireless connectivity, this printer delivers both convenience and efficiency. Its intuitive color display and user-friendly features simplify everyday tasks.

This multifunction printer supports a range of tasks, making printing and document management seamless. It includes long-lasting ink cartridges that yield up to 1,800 pages in black and 750 pages in each color. This minimizes interruptions and lowers operational costs.

This minimizes interruptions and lowers operational costs. The device supports wireless, USB, and Wi-Fi Direct connections, allowing flexible printing options without dependence on external networks.

The crisp 8-inch color display improves usability through clear navigation. Productivity is further enhanced with automatic two-sided printing, a 150-sheet paper tray, and a 20-page automatic document feeder for batch scanning or copying.

Printing speeds reach up to 20 pages per minute in black and 19 pages per minute in color, enabling quick turnaround for busy workflows.

Designed to work seamlessly with laptops, smartphones, and tablets, the printer pairs well with the Brother Mobile Connect app. This app adds remote access and device management directly from mobile devices.

Its compact footprint and multifunctionality make it especially suitable for small workspaces where space and versatility matter.

Pros

• High-yield ink cartridges reduce frequent replacements
• Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi Direct for flexible printing
• Automatic duplex printing and a 20-page ADF boost efficiency

Cons

• Maximum copy speed of 13 ppm may be slower than some competitors

The Brother INKvestment 4355 balances functionality and value with a strong feature set tailored to small office needs. Those requiring reliable color prints and convenient operation will find this model practical and efficient. It stands out from many basic inkjets by combining high-capacity cartridges and versatile connectivity options.

It stands out from many basic inkjets by combining high-capacity cartridges and versatile connectivity options. Below is a detailed specification overview to assist your evaluation.

For users balancing cost and functionality, this printer offers strong performance and reliable ink efficiency. Its suite of connectivity options and user-friendly features make daily tasks less time-consuming. Considering its size and capabilities, the Brother INKvestment 4355 is well suited to meet routine home and small office printing demands.

11. HP Smart Tank 5101 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer, Scanner, Copier

Experience hassle-free printing with the HP Smart Tank 5101 Wireless All-in-One Printer. Designed to offer long-lasting performance, it combines printing, scanning, and copying functions in a compact, refillable ink tank system.

This all-in-one solution supports wireless connectivity, allowing seamless printing from multiple devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Its user-friendly design and mess-free ink refilling system make it ideal for home offices or small business environments.

The HP Smart Tank 5101 delivers up to 6,000 color or black pages using the included ink bottles, significantly reducing the need for frequent refills. Its cartridge-free design promises less interruption and more productivity, backed by sharp text and rich color output. The flatbed scanner adds versatility for document copying and digitization tasks.

The flatbed scanner adds versatility for document copying and digitization tasks.

Setup is straightforward, eliminating any complex maintenance struggles. Wireless connectivity ensures you can print from virtually any device without the hassle of cables.

It supports various media types, including envelopes and glossy photo paper, catering to diverse printing needs. The intuitive LCD display and control via app or touch make operation simple and efficient. Suited for users who prioritize cost-effective, high-volume color printing with reliable output, it stands out within its category for durability and convenience.

Pros

• Up to two years of ink supply included for extended printing sessions
• Mess-free refilling system prevents spills and reduces ink wastage
• Wireless printing compatible with multiple devices for user flexibility

Cons

• Maximum copy speed might be slower compared to specialized office copiers

Combining ease of use with economical operation, the HP Smart Tank 5101 is a dependable choice for sustained printing needs. Its comprehensive features support various printing tasks without frequent ink replacement interruptions. Whether for home or small business use, this model balances performance and value effectively.

Whether for home or small business use, this model balances performance and value effectively.

11 x 19Weight

This printer’s balance of functionality and efficiency makes it practical for users who print frequently and seek low operating costs. It compares favorably against many all-in-one printers by offering a generous ink supply and easy refill process.

For those wanting reliable wireless printing and quality output, it represents a smart investment.

12. HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print,

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer delivers professional-quality printing for home offices. It is designed to handle business documents, reports, and presentations with vibrant color and sharp detail.

This printer combines wireless convenience, smart security, and eco-conscious design to fit modern workspaces. The user-friendly touchscreen and mobile app integration simplify everyday tasks, making printing effortless and efficient.

Engineered for productivity, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 offers fast printing speeds up to 20 pages per minute in black and 10 pages per minute in color. Its automatic two-sided printing and 225-sheet input tray reduce manual effort and increase output capacity.

The large 7-inch color touchscreen provides an intuitive interface that mirrors smartphone ease of use.

The HP app extends control, allowing printing and scanning directly from smartphones and tablets.

HP AI technology enhances print formatting by eliminating unnecessary elements from web pages and emails, saving paper and improving presentation. Security features protect sensitive data through HP Wolf Essential Security, keeping networks safe from cyber threats. This printer also demonstrates environmental responsibility, with over 45% recycled plastic content in its build.

This printer also demonstrates environmental responsibility, with over 45% recycled plastic content in its build.

Pros

• Fast color and black printing with high-quality output
• Convenient wireless printing and smartphone app compatibility
• Advanced security features safeguarding data and networks

Cons

• Designed to work only with original HP cartridges

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 stands out as a dependable and feature-rich solution for home office printing needs. Its blend of speed, intelligent formatting, and security creates a balanced offering. Compared to similar printers in its segment, it delivers superior ease of use and consistent print quality.

Compared to similar printers in its segment, it delivers superior ease of use and consistent print quality.

29D × 11W × 17HWeight

The user experience is enhanced by the printer’s smart features and easy integration with mobile devices. Its quiet mode and efficient paper management make it a practical choice for various workspace environments.

Best Low-Cost Color Printers: Top Picks & Buying Guide

Printing speed and efficiency

When choosing the best low cost color printer, paying attention to printing speed and efficiency can make a noticeable difference in everyday use. The pages per minute rates give a clear idea of how quickly a printer can produce colored documents, which matters especially when handling multiple print jobs.

A fast first page out time means the printer starts printing almost immediately, reducing wait times when printing a single page or small batch. This can greatly improve productivity by minimizing downtime and keeping tasks moving smoothly. For those who need to print frequently or in volume, a printer that balances speed without compromising color quality helps maintain workflow without delays.

Understanding how print speed impacts productivity will guide you toward a model that suits your daily demands and budget, ensuring you get the most value from your purchase.

Print quality and resolution

When selecting a printer, understanding how print quality and resolution affect your results plays a key role in making a satisfying purchase. DPI, or dots per inch, measures the sharpness of printed text and detail in images, with higher values generally producing clearer and more defined outputs. Accurate color representation is equally important for delivering vivid images, especially when dealing with photos or graphic-heavy documents.

Choosing a device that balances crisp text and rich, true-to-life colors can enhance everyday printing tasks as well as occasional photo projects. Comparing models based on their photo print capabilities helps identify options that handle gradients and fine details smoothly without sacrificing speed or ink efficiency.

Prioritizing these factors assists in finding a low-cost color printer that meets both functional and visual needs efficiently.

Connectivity and compatibility

When choosing the best low cost color printer, connectivity and compatibility play a key role in how easily the device integrates with your existing technology. Deciding between wired and wireless options depends on your preferred setup; wired connections often provide stable and faster data transfer, while wireless models offer greater flexibility in placement without the hassle of cables.

Ensuring that the printer offers strong software and driver support for various devices, including Windows, Mac, and even some Linux systems, helps avoid compatibility issues. This facilitates seamless printing across different platforms and provides an overall smoother user experience, especially for those who use multiple devices around the home or office.

Cost factors and budget considerations

When choosing the best low cost color printer, paying close attention to the initial purchase price alongside longterm expenses can help balance upfront savings with ongoing affordability. Many models come with a reasonable price tag, but ink or toner replacement costs may vary widely and impact the overall budget over time. Some printers use cartridges that are more economical to replace, while others might require frequent refills or specialized supplies that increase running costs.

Some printers use cartridges that are more economical to replace, while others might require frequent refills or specialized supplies that increase running costs. Evaluating the cost per page offers insight into how much each print will truly cost when factoring in the price of ink or toner along with the expected yield from cartridges. For light household use, a printer with a low sticker price and moderate ink consumption might suffice.

However, for frequent color printing needs such as photo projects or office documents, investing in a machine known for efficient ink usage and affordable consumables can lead to substantial savings in the long run.

Printer types and ink technology

Choosing a color printer that fits both budget and quality needs involves understanding differences in technology and how ink is used. Inkjet and laser models offer distinct advantages depending on how color printing is approached.

Inkjet printers excel at producing vivid, detailed images with smooth color blending, making them suitable for occasional photo printing and general home use. Laser printers, on the other hand, provide faster output and more durable prints, which is ideal for higher volume tasks or office environments. A valuable feature in many modern printers is the use of individual color cartridges, allowing users to replace only the specific color that runs out instead of the entire cartridge.

This approach can reduce printing costs over time and minimize waste. Considering the environmental footprint, printers with efficient ink consumption help lessen the impact by using ink more sparingly and supporting recycling programs, contributing to more eco-friendly printing practices. Understanding these factors can guide buyers towards selecting a best low cost color printer that aligns with their particular printing needs and sustainability preferences.

Additional features and usability

When choosing the best low cost color printer, paying attention to multifunction capabilities adds significant value for everyday tasks since many models offer the ability to scan, copy, and fax alongside printing. A user interface that is simple and intuitive improves the overall experience, making setup and operation straightforward even for those new to printer technology.

Considering how these factors align with your specific needs will help in selecting a printer that not only serves its primary role of producing color prints but also enhances productivity and convenience in a home or office environment.

People Also Asked

How Do Ink And Toner Costs Compare Among Affordable Color Printers?

Ink costs for affordable color printers tend to be higher and require frequent cartridge replacements, while toner costs are generally more economical over time due to higher page yields. However, initial toner cartridges may be pricier upfront compared to ink cartridges.

What Features Should I Look For In A Budget-Friendly Color Printer?

Look for features like good print quality, efficient ink usage, and wireless connectivity in a budget-friendly color printer. Additionally, consider compact size and multi-function capabilities such as scanning and copying for added value.

Are There Any Reliable Low Cost Color Printers Suitable For Home And Small Office Use?

Yes, there are reliable low-cost color printers suitable for home and small office use, such as the HP OfficeJet Pro 8025 and Canon PIXMA TS6320. These models offer good print quality, efficient ink usage, and affordable initial prices.

Which Low Cost Color Printer Offers The Best Print Quality For Photos And Documents?

The Canon PIXMA TS8320 is a low-cost color printer known for excellent photo and document print quality. It delivers sharp text and vibrant, detailed photos, making it a top choice for budget-conscious users.

What Are The Best Low Cost Color Printers Available In 202

Some of the best low-cost color printers available in 2024 include the Canon PIXMA TS3520 and the HP DeskJet 2755e, both offering affordable prices with good print quality for home use. These models are known for their compact design, ease of use, and economical ink options.

Conclusion

Choosing the best low cost color printer involves balancing affordability with print quality and functionality. While such printers may not offer the fastest speeds or advanced features found in higher-end models, they provide reliable performance for everyday tasks like documents, photos, and school projects.

Ideal for home users, students, or small offices with moderate printing needs, these printers deliver satisfactory color output without breaking the budget. Potential buyers should consider ink replacement costs and connectivity options to ensure the printer fits their routine. Overall, a carefully selected low cost color printer can meet essential printing demands efficiently, making it a practical choice for those seeking cost-effective color printing without unnecessary extras or high expenses.