Top 12 Best Basic Printer Models You Can’t Miss Today

Many people need a reliable printer for everyday tasks like printing documents, homework, or simple photos. Finding a device that performs well without complicated features can be challenging.

This type of printer is designed for users who want straightforward functionality without spending too much time setting up or maintaining the equipment. It suits students, home office workers, and anyone needing a simple, cost-effective printing solution.

In this review, we will explore key features such as print quality, speed, ease of use, and affordability. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this basic printer fits your needs and what to expect before making a purchase.

Affordable and Reliable Options That Get the Job Done

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 DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,	Check Price

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

The HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer offers a simple and efficient printing solution for everyday home use. Whether you need to print to-do lists, letters, or recipes, this compact device handles various tasks with ease.

Combining printing, scanning, and copying functionalities, the DeskJet 2855e fits well in homes requiring a reliable, multifunction device. The intuitive control through the HP app enhances convenience, allowing you to manage documents straight from smartphones, tablets, or PCs without hassle.

The printer delivers print speeds up to 5 pages per minute in black and

It produces sharp, well-formatted prints, especially with HP’s AI technology that cleans up web pages and emails before printing. This helps avoid wasting ink and paper by removing unwanted content.

Equipped with a 60-sheet input tray and supporting various media types including envelopes and glossy photo paper, it adapts to different printing needs. Wireless connectivity uses a reliable 4 GHz network, which automatically detects and fixes connection problems to keep you printing smoothly.

Setup is straightforward with the HP+ Instant Ink service offering free ink delivery for three months. Afterward, Ink subscription continues unless canceled, assisting in uninterrupted printing. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution ensures clear text and vibrant color output, suitable for documents and occasional photos alike.

The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution ensures clear text and vibrant color output, suitable for documents and occasional photos alike.

Its compact size and lightweight design make placement flexible in homes with limited space. Ideal for users seeking an affordable all-in-one printer with essential features, it balances functionality and simplicity well. Compared to other basic printers, it provides enhanced formatting options and easy mobile management.

Pros

• All-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy in a compact design
• HP AI formatting ensures precise, waste-free prints
• Simple wireless setup with automatic connectivity troubleshooting

Cons

• Supports only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, lacking 5 GHz compatibility

The HP DeskJet 2855e offers a practical solution for daily home printing needs, blending ease of use with dependable performance. Its multifunctional design, combined with smart app controls and HP’s AI printing assistance, makes it a convenient choice for straightforward tasks.

For users searching for a straightforward home printer, this model delivers solid performance without complicating the setup. It stands out by offering a clean printing experience and wireless support tailored for everyday documents, making it a practical choice for personal use.

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

Discover a versatile and affordable printer that meets everyday printing needs with ease. The Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer offers vivid color output and reliable duplex printing, making it suitable for home offices or personal use. It blends functionality with a compact design for seamless integration into any workspace.

Designed for clear and vibrant prints, this model employs a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that produces crisp text and bright photos. Fast wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi supports hassle-free printing from multiple devices. Users can expect smooth setup and straightforward mobile printing options, enhancing convenience in busy environments.

The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is a compact all-in-one printer that handles printing, scanning, and copying efficiently. Its flatbed scanner is capable of high-quality scans, while automatic duplex printing helps save both time and paper.

Build quality is solid given its price point, ensuring durability and reliability for daily tasks. The control interface combines app connectivity with simple push buttons, making it easy for users with varying tech experience.

Dual-band Wi-Fi optimizes wireless performance, so documents or photos print consistently without interruptions.

Its small footprint is ideal for limited spaces, yet it doesn’t sacrifice performance. The Eco-conscious certifications demonstrate the brand’s commitment to energy efficiency, appealing to environmentally aware users. Overall, this printer suits students, remote workers, and anyone needing an accessible, economical all-in-one printing solution.

Pros

• Automatic two-sided printing saves paper and effort
• Strong wireless connection with 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands
• Supports printing from smartphones via Canon PRINT App and AirPrint

Cons

• Print speed is moderate, especially for black and white copies

The Canon PIXMA TS4320 provides a balanced mix of functionality, quality, and convenience for everyday printing needs. Its features accommodate a broad range of tasks without overwhelming complexity.

Ideal for home offices, students, or casual photo printing, it delivers dependable results in a space-saving design.

In my experience, this Canon printer stands out by providing quality output with minimal hassle. Setup is quick, and the wireless options are reliable even in busier network environments. It is a solid choice if you prioritize versatility and ease in an affordable package compared to some bulkier models.

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

Experience reliable and efficient printing with the HP DeskJet 4355 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer. Designed for everyday tasks, this compact device combines printing, scanning, and copying in one seamless solution. Its wireless functionality and user-friendly features make it an excellent addition to any home setup.

Its wireless functionality and user-friendly features make it an excellent addition to any home setup.

The printer delivers vibrant color prints and crisp black-and-white documents without hassle. Perfect for handling to-do lists, letters, or recipes, it offers convenience alongside quality.

Combining essential functionalities, the HP DeskJet 4355 caters to fundamental printing needs with added versatility. The 35-sheet auto document feeder and 60-sheet input tray support uninterrupted workflows. Wireless printing via robust dual-band Wi-Fi streamlines connectivity for laptops, PCs, and smartphones through the HP app.

Wireless printing via robust dual-band Wi-Fi streamlines connectivity for laptops, PCs, and smartphones through the HP app.

One standout feature is the HP AI capability, which optimizes print layouts by intelligently removing unwanted content. This helps avoid wasted pages and awkward formatting, enhancing print output precision.

Performance-wise, the printer offers respectable speeds—up to 5 pages per minute in black and 5 pages per minute in color.

Its refillable ink tank design supports sustainability with at least 70% recycled plastics. Energy Star and EPEAT certifications underscore the environmentally responsible build.

Ideal for home users needing a compact, all-in-one printer, it fits easily on desks without occupying much space. While it focuses on basic functions, the added AI-driven formatting and wireless features place it ahead of many similar entry-level printers.

Pros

• AI-enhanced print formatting reduces wasted pages
• Convenient wireless printing with dual-band Wi-Fi
• Compact design built from recycled materials

Cons

• Print speeds may be slower compared to higher-end models

The HP DeskJet 4355 balances essential all-in-one functions with modern conveniences like wireless connectivity and intelligent print optimization. Its environmentally conscious design and compact footprint make it a dependable option for basic home printing tasks.

Choosing this printer means relying on straightforward functionality paired with smart features. It suits users who prioritize ease of use and environmental considerations over high-volume or high-speed printing needs.

4. Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto

Experience the convenience of the Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer designed to handle all your home printing needs. This versatile printer combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing into one compact device that fits perfectly in any home office space.

With reliable wireless connectivity and smart features, it simplifies document management while delivering sharp text and vibrant colors. Whether printing photos or documents, this printer offers quality and efficiency for everyday tasks.

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 supports wireless printing, allowing you to print directly from smartphones, tablets, or computers without hassle. Its auto document feeder and automatic two-sided printing save time and paper, making multi-page jobs easier.

Thanks to a 100-sheet front paper tray and simple ink cartridge replacement, users can maintain productivity without frequent interruptions. The hybrid ink system enhances print quality, producing crisp black text alongside vivid color images.

Powered efficiently at 7W during use, this printer helps reduce energy consumption while staying ready for tasks. It produces borderless photo prints up to 4 x 6 in just over a minute and prints black and color documents at reasonable speeds for home use.

Integration with Alexa offers smart reordering for ink supplies, so running out becomes less of a concern. The compact design and easy setup suit home environments, while the LCD display simplifies operation. Overall, it balances performance and user-friendly features, ideal for anyone needing a dependable all-in-one printer.

Pros

• Convenient wireless printing and scanning from mobile devices
• Auto two-sided printing and automatic document feeder for multitasking
• Smart ink level notifications with Alexa-enabled reordering

Cons

• Print speed may be slower compared to higher-end models

Offering a solid set of features tailored for home use, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 stands out as a reliable and efficient choice. It delivers quality results with ease, making daily printing tasks less cumbersome.

Compact and economical, it works well for households and small offices requiring basic color printing plus scanning and faxing capabilities.

Compared to other basic home printers, this model excels in ease of use and smart integration without adding complexity. Its ability to handle multiple office functions adequately places it ahead of many entry-level options. For an affordable, space-saving solution in everyday printing and scanning tasks, it remains a dependable choice.

5. HP DeskJet 2923 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,

Discover a reliable solution for your everyday printing with the HP DeskJet 2923 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer. It handles printing, scanning, and copying with ease, making daily document tasks smoother and more efficient.

Wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities simplify your workflow. Whether you need to print to-do lists or colorful flyers, the HP DeskJet 2923 covers your basic needs with quality results and user-friendly features.

The HP DeskJet 2923 excels in versatility by combining print, scan, and copy functions into a single compact unit. It supports color printing with a 60-sheet input tray that manages your documents efficiently. Thanks to the HP AI technology, web pages and emails print neatly, omitting unwanted content for clean results.

This printer offers respectable print speeds of up to 5 ppm in black and

5 ppm in color, accommodating routine tasks promptly. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connections, automatically resolving network issues for uninterrupted operation. Designed with sustainability in mind, it features at least 70% recycled plastics and meets ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certifications.

The intuitive icon LCD makes navigation straightforward, and the compatible HP app allows printing and scanning directly from smartphones. A six-month trial of HP Instant Ink keeps your ink supply consistent without last-minute runs to the store.

Pros

• Efficient all-in-one functionality: print, scan, and copy in one device.
• Wireless and mobile printing supported with user-friendly app access.
• Eco-conscious design using recycled materials and energy certifications.

Cons

• Print speeds are moderate compared to higher-end models.

The HP DeskJet 2923 is a dependable choice for anyone in need of straightforward printing functionality in a compact package. It blends sustainability with convenience and delivers clear prints for everyday documents.

Those prioritizing faster output might consider other options, but this model strikes a strong balance between features and ease of use.

For users seeking an affordable and straightforward printer capable of handling basic home or office tasks, the HP DeskJet 2923 is a solid pick. Its combination of ease of use, wireless convenience, and eco-friendly design offers great everyday value without unnecessary complexity.

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

Discover efficient multifunction printing with the Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer. Designed to fit seamlessly into home and home office settings, it combines printing, copying, and scanning into one compact device.

Achieve sharp, vibrant results with every print, enhancing your daily productivity.

Connectivity meets convenience through a 8” color display that links easily to popular cloud apps.

Its wireless capabilities make it simple to operate from various devices, helping you stay organized and efficient. Perfect for users who need reliable performance without complexity.

Offering versatile functionality, the Brother Work Smart 1360 supports automatic duplex printing to save paper. It includes a 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder for multi-page jobs and a 150-sheet tray to reduce reload frequency.

The printer’s flatbed and sheetfed scanner adds flexibility for various document types. Its compatibility extends across laptops, PCs, smartphones, and tablets, ensuring smooth integration with your devices. The Brother Mobile Connect app allows remote operation to handle prints, copies, and scans efficiently from your phone.

Build quality reflects thoughtful design with a sturdy frame and energy-saving features. User-friendliness shines with simple buttons and app-based controls, making setup and daily use straightforward. Those working remotely or managing home office printing needs will appreciate its blend of quality, speed, and wireless convenience.

Pros

• Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste.
• Multiple connectivity options including wireless and USB.
• Mobile app offers easy remote printing and device management.

Cons

• Maximum copy speed of 11 ppm may be limiting for very large jobs.

Balancing efficiency and versatility, this printer fits well in compact areas without sacrificing performance. Its cloud connectivity and automatic document feeder stand out for value and ease. Below is a detailed specification table to guide your comparison.

Below is a detailed specification table to guide your comparison.

The Brother Work Smart 1360 combines solid functionality with user-friendly design. Its wireless flexibility and solid print quality make it a practical choice for personal and home office use. Users looking for a reliable all-in-one device will value its balance of features and efficiency.

Users looking for a reliable all-in-one device will value its balance of features and efficiency.

7. Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing,

The Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer offers a perfect blend of efficiency and simplicity for homes and home offices. It brings crisp and clear black-and-white prints at a speed that keeps up with your busy schedule.

Designed to save space while delivering reliable performance, this compact printer connects effortlessly to multiple devices. Ideal for daily document printing with modern wireless convenience.

Engineered to provide sharp monochrome prints at speeds up to 30 pages per minute, this Brother printer ensures you get your documents quickly without compromising quality. The built-in dual-band wireless feature allows seamless connection to laptops, smartphones, and tablets on 4GHz or 5GHz networks, while a USB option supports a direct link to your computer.

It includes a 250-sheet paper tray, which reduces the need for frequent refills, and a manual feed slot supporting envelopes and specialty paper, making it versatile for various printing tasks. The device’s compact size fits neatly on a small desk, saving workspace without sacrificing functionality.

Using the Brother Mobile Connect app, you can manage print jobs remotely, monitor toner levels, and order supplies directly from your mobile device, adding convenience to your daily routine. Although this printer focuses on black-and-white output only, it offers cost-effective printing and consistent results.

Simple setup and maintenance make this model an excellent choice for personal or small office use. Compared to more expensive color printers, it delivers dependable performance at a more accessible level, especially for users who primarily handle text-based documents.

Pros

• Fast printing speed up to 30 ppm for quick document output
• Dual-band wireless connection for versatile device compatibility
• Mobile app control for convenient remote printer management

Cons

• Monochrome printing only, no color support

Overall, the Brother HL-L2405W offers reliable and efficient laser printing tailored for everyday black-and-white documents. Its compact design and wireless features make it a practical solution for home and office needs. Below is a detailed specification table to help with your decision.

For those needing straightforward black-and-white printing without extra frills, this model meets expectations effectively. It balances speed, easy connectivity, and mobile management perfectly for personal or professional environments.

Its compact footprint and consistent output make it a practical addition where reliability matters most.

8. HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier,

Efficiently managing everyday printing tasks at home or the office becomes effortless with the HP DeskJet Designed to handle color printing, scanning, and copying, this all-in-one device facilitates smooth workflow among multiple functions. Its compact size makes it easy to integrate anywhere without occupying much space.

Its compact size makes it easy to integrate anywhere without occupying much space.

Wireless capability and mobile printing enhance convenience, allowing users to print straight from smartphones and tablets. The printer’s intuitive control panel simplifies printing operations for quick access to essential tasks, making it an excellent choice for personal or small workgroup use.

The HP DeskJet 2955 is tailored for basic printing needs such as letters, recipes, and financial documents. It supports color print, copy, and scan functions with a 60-sheet input tray that keeps work going without frequent refills. The device uses HP AI technology to optimize print formatting, eliminating undesired content from web pages and emails for cleaner outputs.

Its print speeds reach up to 5 pages per minute (ppm) for black and

5 ppm for color, suitable for daily printing without delays. Wireless printing relies on reliable dual-band Wi-Fi that automatically addresses connection issues for uninterrupted productivity. Users also benefit from the included three-month trial of HP Instant Ink, which ensures ink supplies are replenished automatically.

With an ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified build, it incorporates sustainable materials including 70% recycled plastic. Compatibility extends to laptops, PCs, and smartphones, ensuring broad device support.

Compact and lightweight, this model is convenient for limited spaces. The HP app further boosts user experience by enabling seamless print, scan, copy, or fax actions directly from mobile devices.

Pros

• All-in-one functionality with wireless and mobile printing support
• HP AI improves print quality by removing unwanted web content
• Sustainable design using recycled plastics with energy-efficient certification

Cons

• Print speed is moderate, which may not suit high-volume tasks

The HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One delivers reliable performance for everyday printing requirements while integrating thoughtful features like smart formatting and wireless connectivity. Its compact profile and eco-conscious design make it a practical choice for space-conscious users. Essential functions are easily performed, supporting smooth day-to-day document management.

Essential functions are easily performed, supporting smooth day-to-day document management.

This model stands out for users who need straightforward color printing combined with scanning and copying. Its smart tools reduce waste and streamline workflow, making routine tasks less time-consuming.

9. Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Lightweight Compact Printer, 50-Sheet Paper

Experience seamless printing wherever you go with the Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer. Its compact design and lightweight build ensure easy mobility without compromising print quality.

This printer combines versatility with convenience, making it ideal for professionals, students, or travelers. Its portability and user-friendly features allow for hassle-free printing of documents and photos anytime.

The Canon PIXMA TR160 delivers crisp black text and vibrant color prints thanks to its advanced 5-Color Hybrid Ink System. It supports borderless prints up to

5” x 11”, ensuring professional-grade output on the go. The printer is lightweight at 5 pounds, measuring just

7” by 3” by

6”, so it fits easily into a bag or backpack.

Wireless Direct Mode allows direct connections without a router, expanding its usability in various environments. The 44” OLED display lets you quickly check ink levels and monitor print status.

44” OLED display lets you quickly check ink levels and monitor print status. Connectivity is straightforward through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, or Mopria Print Service, facilitating printing from smartphones, tablets, or PCs.

Performance-wise, it prints black-and-white documents at up to 9 pages per minute, delivering efficient results for everyday use. Glossy photo paper support enhances image clarity for photos. Its single tray design simplifies paper handling, and the resolution reaches up to 4800 x 1200 dpi for detailed prints.

The printer’s build quality feels robust for a portable device, balancing durability and lightweight convenience.

Pros

• Highly portable and lightweight for on-the-go use.
• Sharp, vibrant print quality with 5-Color Hybrid Ink System.
• Wireless Direct Mode enables printing without a router.

Cons

• Single paper tray limits capacity for large print jobs.

Balancing portability, quality, and wireless convenience, the Canon PIXMA TR160 stands out as a practical solution for mobile printing needs. Its compact size and multiple connectivity options make it well-suited for users requiring flexibility without sacrificing output quality.

In my opinion, the Canon PIXMA TR160 offers a well-rounded package for mobile printing needs. Its compactness and wireless options deliver hassle-free operation, while print quality remains consistently impressive. It competes effectively with other portable printers by offering more color depth and user-friendly controls.

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

Discover reliability and convenience with the HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer. Designed for hassle-free printing, it simplifies everyday tasks with a refillable ink system that reduces maintenance efforts.

Enjoy seamless connectivity and impressive print quality, making it a practical choice for home or office use.

Efficient printing meets versatile functionality with the inclusion of scanning and copying features. This model supports wireless printing from various devices, creating a flexible and clutter-free workspace. Its compact design fits easily into any environment while delivering professional results consistently.

The HP Smart Tank 5003 stands out with its integrated cartridge-free ink tank system. Refilling ink becomes simple and mess-free by using specially designed bottles that prevent spills. Users can print up to 6,000 black or color pages with the included ink bottles, making it suitable for high-volume needs.

Users can print up to 6,000 black or color pages with the included ink bottles, making it suitable for high-volume needs.

Performance is steady, offering up to 10 pages per minute for black and white documents. Quality remains sharp with vibrant colors and clear texts, supporting various media types including envelopes and glossy photo paper. The flatbed scanner adds convenience for digitizing important documents quickly.

The flatbed scanner adds convenience for digitizing important documents quickly.

Setup and operation are straightforward with wireless connectivity options including mobile printing through dedicated apps. The printer accommodates several devices such as laptops, smartphones, and PCs.

Its lightweight build and one tray design enhance ease of use without sacrificing durability or efficiency.

Pros

• Long-lasting ink supply with cartridge-free refill system
• Supports wireless and mobile printing from multiple devices
• Combines printing, scanning, and copying in one compact unit

Cons

• Maximum black and white copy speed is moderate compared to some competitors

Offering excellent print quality and user-friendly features, the HP Smart Tank 5003 is a reliable and economical option for everyday printing tasks. Its mess-free refill design and wireless capabilities provide a convenient experience for households and small offices alike.

For users seeking an affordable printer capable of handling various tasks, the HP Smart Tank 5003 delivers consistent results and space-saving design. Its ink-saving features particularly benefit those with frequent printing needs, making it a smart addition to daily technology essentials.

11. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Ink Supertank Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 redefines home printing convenience with its cartridge-free ink system. Say goodbye to frequent ink replacements and enjoy a continuous printing experience designed for both documents and vibrant photos. Its wireless connectivity supports seamless printing from multiple devices without hassle.

Featuring a compact, all-in-one design, this printer combines printing, scanning, and copying functions. It is engineered with Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology to deliver crisp, clear images and sharp texts.

Ideal for everyday use, it simplifies printing tasks while reducing environmental impact.

The EcoTank ET-2800 provides an efficient ink solution with refillable bottles that replace about 90 traditional cartridges. This system significantly lowers the frequency of ink changes, allowing users to print thousands of pages before needing replacements.

Thanks to this, downtime and expenses related to ink swapping are minimized, making it suitable for busy households and small offices.

Its color printing capability supports glossy photos and sharp documents, ensuring quality that lasts for years without fading. Wireless mobile printing and a user-friendly LCD screen enhance ease of use, letting users manage tasks effortlessly.

The device’s flatbed scanner adds versatility for copying and digitizing documents.

The build emphasizes reliability and durability with an 4-pound frame and intuitive app control.

Users can expect up to 10 pages per minute in black-and-white, fitting well in environments requiring steady output. Additionally, producing zero cartridge waste aligns with eco-conscious values, making this model a smart choice for sustainable printing needs.

Pros

• Cartridge-free ink system greatly reduces replace frequency
• Wireless printing with mobile device compatibility
• High-resolution output suitable for documents and photos

Cons

• Printer size may require more desk space than compact alternatives

Designed for users seeking reliable and eco-friendly printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience. It stands out against traditional cartridge printers by offering a waste-reducing ink solution and user-friendly features.

This model is particularly well-suited for home offices or individuals desiring clean, colorful prints without constant interruptions for ink replacement.

Overall, this EcoTank model meets the needs of users looking for a cost-effective, low-maintenance printer. Its quality output and environmentally conscious design make it a practical option.

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

Discover the HP Smart Tank 5100, a reliable and versatile solution for all your printing needs. It combines printing, scanning, and copying into one compact device designed to handle high-volume tasks with ease.

Experience hassle-free printing, thanks to a cartridge-free ink tank system that simplifies refills and reduces costs. Designed for both home and office use, this printer offers quality and efficiency in a sleek package.

The HP Smart Tank 5100 stands out with its integrated refillable ink tanks, allowing up to 3 years of ink included. This system delivers a remarkable volume of up to 6,000 color or black pages right after unboxing. Such capacity supports intensive printing workloads without constant interruptions or ink changes.

Such capacity supports intensive printing workloads without constant interruptions or ink changes.

It supports wireless and mobile printing, enabling you to send documents directly from your smartphone or tablet. Beyond printing, the all-in-one functionality offers copying and flatbed scanning features, expanding its versatility for daily tasks.

With print speeds reaching 10 pages per minute in black and white, it handles typical document jobs efficiently. The printer produces sharp text and vibrant colors, ideal for professional presentations or personal projects.

Its mess-free refill system helps prevent spills during ink replacement, maintaining workspace cleanliness. The build is practical and compact, measuring

23 deep by 11 wide and weighing just over 11 pounds, making it easy to place in various work environments.

Thanks to its support for different media types like envelopes and glossy photo paper, users can explore creative printing options. Overall, the HP Smart Tank 5100 provides affordable running costs and reliable performance suitable for families, students, and small businesses.

Pros

• Includes up to 3 years of ink for high-volume printing
• Wireless connectivity with mobile printing support
• Cartridge-free, mess-free refill system simplifies maintenance

Cons

• Maximum copy speed of 10 ppm may be slow for very large office demands

Efficient, cost-effective, and user-friendly, the HP Smart Tank 5100 offers a dependable all-in-one experience for everyday printing needs. Its high ink yield and wireless capabilities enhance productivity without the hassles of traditional cartridges. For those requiring moderate volume and quality photo and document prints, it represents a well-rounded investment.

For those requiring moderate volume and quality photo and document prints, it represents a well-rounded investment.

This printer is a strong contender among budget-friendly all-in-ones, especially when compared to similar refillable tank models. Its straightforward refill system and included ink supplies put it ahead in convenience and cost savings.

Best Basic Printer Buying Guide: Top Picks & Tips

Ink and toner efficiency

Cartridge yield and replacement cost play a major role in a printer’s overall affordability, especially for regular use. Printers that offer high-yield cartridges typically reduce the frequency of replacements, which can save money over time. The availability of ink types also affects convenience and price, with many printers supporting both original manufacturer cartridges and third-party alternatives that often come at a lower cost.

Utilizing ink-saving modes can help extend the lifespan of your cartridges by reducing ink consumption during printing, which is especially useful for draft documents or casual use. Additionally, duplex printing not only conserves paper by allowing double-sided printing but can indirectly contribute to ink efficiency by promoting mindful printing habits.

All these factors combined make it easier to manage running costs and reduce waste while maintaining decent print quality.

Userfriendly features

Selecting a printer that offers userfriendly features often starts with examining the control panel and display type; models equipped with touchscreen displays or intuitive button layouts tend to make operation straightforward, especially for beginners. Compatibility with various software and drivers is another important aspect, as seamless integration with different operating systems allows for hassle-free installation and regular updates, helping maintain smooth performance over time.

Paying attention to these elements will help ensure a satisfying experience with your printing device, balancing ease of use with reliable functionality.

Printer size and design

Choosing a printer involves paying attention to its overall size and design, which can greatly affect how well it fits into your workspace. A compact footprint and manageable weight make it easier to place the device on a desk or shelf without occupying too much room or causing inconvenience.

The aesthetic aspect is also worth noting, as a sleek and well-constructed printer can blend smoothly with your office or home decor. Build quality plays a role in durability, so selecting a model with sturdy materials can extend its lifespan. Additionally, easy access for loading paper and performing routine maintenance keeps the printer hassle-free, allowing you to replace ink cartridges or clear paper jams with minimal effort.

These factors combined contribute to a more pleasant and efficient printing experience tailored to everyday needs.

Print quality and speed

When choosing a basic printer, pay close attention to resolution measured in dots per inch, as this determines the sharpness and clarity of both black and color prints. A higher DPI generally means crisper text and more detailed images, making documents look professional even with simple devices. Alongside resolution, the speed at which a printer can produce pages, often indicated in pages per minute, affects efficiency, especially if you handle frequent printing tasks.

Alongside resolution, the speed at which a printer can produce pages, often indicated in pages per minute, affects efficiency, especially if you handle frequent printing tasks. While faster printers can save time, balancing speed and quality is key since some models may print quickly but compromise on detail. This balance makes a printer suitable for everyday use such as school assignments, office documents, and casual photo prints, meeting the basic needs without overcomplicating functionality or price.

When shopping, consider the types of documents you print most often and choose a printer that offers good clarity for those specific uses, as well as a comfortable printing speed that matches your workload.

Connectivity options

When choosing between USB, wireless, and Ethernet connectivity for a printer, understanding the differences can help match the device to your needs. USB connections offer straightforward plug-and-play setup, making them ideal for single users who connect their printer directly to a computer without worrying about network configurations. Wireless options provide greater flexibility by allowing multiple devices to connect without cables, supporting mobile printing from smartphones and tablets, which is convenient for home or small office environments.

Wireless options provide greater flexibility by allowing multiple devices to connect without cables, supporting mobile printing from smartphones and tablets, which is convenient for home or small office environments. Ethernet connections typically suit settings where a stable, high-speed network is required, often in larger offices where several users can print seamlessly. Mobile printing compatibility varies among models, with many supporting popular apps and protocols for easy document sharing from mobile devices.

Setting up a network printer can be as simple as following an app-guided process or may involve configuring IP addresses manually, depending on your familiarity with networking. Considering how you plan to use the printer and the devices it needs to communicate with will guide you toward the right connectivity choice that balances ease and functionality.

Budget and longterm costs

When choosing the best basic printer, it helps to balance the initial purchase price with the ongoing costs of operation. A printer that seems affordable at first might have expensive replacement ink or toner cartridges, which can add up over time. Evaluating the cost per page gives a clearer picture of long-term expenses beyond just the upfront investment.

Maintenance costs, such as replacing parts or servicing the machine, should also be taken into account to avoid surprises after buying. Additionally, checking the warranty coverage and return policy can provide peace of mind in case the printer encounters problems or does not meet expectations.

Selecting a model with reliable customer support and a favorable warranty period can save money and hassle in the long run, especially for those who need consistent print quality and minimal downtime.

People Also Asked

What Is The Average Cost Of A Good Basic Printer?

The average cost of a good basic printer typically ranges from $50 to $150. Prices vary depending on features such as print quality, speed, and connectivity options.

Are Inkjet Or Laser Printers Better For Basic Home Use?

Inkjet printers are generally better for basic home use due to their lower upfront cost and ability to print high-quality color photos. However, laser printers are more cost-effective for high-volume black-and-white printing and offer faster print speeds.

Which Brands Are Known For Producing Reliable Basic Printers?

Brands known for producing reliable basic printers include HP, Canon, and Brother, which are widely praised for their durability and ease of use. These brands offer affordable models ideal for everyday printing needs.

What Features Should I Look For In The Best Basic Printer?

Look for a basic printer with reliable print quality, fast printing speed, and easy connectivity options like USB or Wi-Fi. Additionally, consider features such as compact size, low-cost ink or toner, and user-friendly controls for hassle-free operation.

How Do Basic Printers Differ From Advanced Or Professional Models?

Basic printers typically offer standard printing functions with lower resolution and slower speeds, suitable for everyday home use. In contrast, advanced or professional models provide higher print quality, faster output, additional features like duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and support for various media types, catering to business or specialized needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the best basic printer involves weighing its straightforward functionality against any potential limitations, such as slower print speeds or minimal extra features. This type of printer is ideal for individuals or small offices that require reliable, no-frills printing without the need for advanced capabilities. While it may not suit users who demand high-volume or color-intensive tasks, the simplicity and ease of use often translate into lower costs and fewer technical issues.

While it may not suit users who demand high-volume or color-intensive tasks, the simplicity and ease of use often translate into lower costs and fewer technical issues. For those seeking dependable performance for everyday documents, the best basic printer strikes a balance between affordability and sufficient quality. By understanding your specific printing needs, you can confidently select a model that meets your expectations without unnecessary complexity.