Finding the best home printer in 2026 means balancing print quality, cost, and ease of use. The HP Envy 6155 stands out as a versatile all-in-one with solid features for most households, while the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 offers exceptional value with its refillable supertank. These options highlight the main tradeoffs: paying more upfront for better quality and features versus saving over time with cheaper ink options. Whether you need a straightforward printer or a photo-ready powerhouse, this roundup covers the top choices. Keep reading to see which model fits your needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- The best printers balance print quality, running costs, and ease of setup without overcomplicating features.
- Supertank models like Epson EcoTank ET-4800 provide long-term savings, especially for high-volume households.
- All-in-one printers generally offer better value for home use than single-function models, but they can be bulkier.
- Wireless connectivity and mobile printing are standard features that significantly enhance usability.
- Premium models tend to prioritize photo printing and faster speeds, ideal for creative or professional home offices.
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Basic Home Use | Printer Type: Inkjet | Color: Color | Wireless: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer |  | Best for Cost-Conscious Home Offices | Printer Type: All-in-One | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | Color: White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Creative and Photo Printing | Print Speed: 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color | Input Tray Capacity: 100 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.4 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Small Home Offices with Heavy Use | Print Speed: 20 ppm black, 10 ppm color | Input Tray Capacity: 225 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.7-inch color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy Photo 7975 Wireless Color Inkjet Photo Printer |  | Best for High-Quality Photos and Creative Projects | Print Speed: 10 pages per minute color, 15 pages per minute black | Functions: Print, copy, scan | Auto Duplex: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2903 Wireless All-in-One Color Supertank Printer with Refillable Tanks |  | Best Overall for Cost Efficiency and Long-Term Use | Print Speed: 11 PPM (black), 6 PPM (color) | Maximum Resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi | Paper Capacity: 100 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan |  | Best Budget-Friendly All-in-One for Light Use | Printer Type: Color Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless (Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Work Smart Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Small Offices and Versatile Home Use | Print Speed: up to 16 ppm black, 9 ppm color | Automatic Duplex: Yes | Automatic Document Feeder: 20 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing, and Built-in Fax |  | Best for Versatile Home Functionality with Faxing | Printer Type: Inkjet | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Connectivity: Wi-Fi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing and Built-in Fax, Black |  | Best for High-Quality Photo and Document Printing at Home | Printer Type: Inkjet | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Use | Printer Type: Wireless Color Inkjet | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier with Up to 3 Years of Ink Included |  | Best for High-Volume, Cost-Effective Printing | Functions: Print, copy, scan | Ink Included: Up to 3 years | Print Technology: Ink tank | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer |  | Best for High Page Yield and Cost Efficiency | Wireless: Yes | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan | Ink Included: Up to 2 years | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex Printing |  | Best for Compact, Versatile Home Printing | Printer Type: All-in-one inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Media Size: Up to 8.5” x 11” | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| home printer | Connectivity | Printer Type | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-i | — | Inkjet | — |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless | Wireless, Ethernet | All-in-One | — |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-O | Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi | — | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless | Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi | — | — |
| HP Envy Photo 7975 Wireless Co | Wireless, mobile printing | — | Print, copy, scan |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2903 Wireless | Wireless, mobile printing support | — | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Wireless (Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Color Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Work Smart | — | — | — |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wi-Fi | Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wireless | Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Wireless Color Inkjet | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless Al | Wireless, mobile printing | — | Print, copy, scan |
| Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-On | — | — | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | All-in-one inkjet | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2955 stands out as a compact, straightforward option for households with light printing needs. Compared to the HP Envy 6155, it offers fewer high-end features but excels in simplicity and affordability. Its wireless connectivity and included AI-powered formatting make everyday tasks convenient, while the 3-month Instant Ink trial adds value. However, its slow print speed and limited capacity make it unsuitable for busy households or high-volume printing. It’s a solid choice for families who print sporadically and prioritize ease of use over speed or capacity.
Pros:- Wireless printing and scanning for convenience
- Includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial for automatic ink delivery
- Compact design fits well in small spaces
Cons:- Limited to basic printing needs, not suitable for high-volume use
- Print speed is relatively slow for busy households
Best for: Families who need occasional color prints, scans, and copies without complexity
Not ideal for: Users with high-volume or fast-paced printing demands, due to its slow speed and limited tray capacity
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Color:Color
- Wireless:Yes
- Print Speed:Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Maximum Copy Speed:6 pages per minute
- Item Weight:7.6 pounds
- Supported Media:Envelopes, Unknown
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for light, infrequent use in small home environments.”
Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is ideal for those seeking low-cost, high-volume printing with minimal ongoing ink expenses. Its high-capacity EcoTank system surpasses cartridge-based models like the HP Envy 6155 in long-term savings, especially for frequent printers. The inclusion of scanner, copier, and fax functions adds versatility for home offices. While setup can be complex, and print speeds are slower than laser options, this model excels for users who prioritize low per-page costs and high capacity over speed. It’s a smart pick for small businesses or busy households with frequent printing needs.
Pros:- Cost-effective with high-capacity ink tanks
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible setup
- Includes scanner, copier, and fax functions
Cons:- Initial setup may be complex for some users
- Print speed may be slower compared to laser printers
Best for: Home office users needing high-volume, economical printing
Not ideal for: Users seeking fast print speeds or simple setup, as initial configuration can be challenging
- Printer Type:All-in-One
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Color:White
- Features:Scanner, Copier, Fax
- Ink System:EcoTank cartridge-free
- Suitable For:Home Office
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for households or small offices with frequent printing needs and a focus on savings.”
HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy 6155 is tailored for households that want vibrant photo printing alongside standard document tasks. Its high-quality color output outshines basic models like the HP DeskJet 2955 in photo clarity, thanks to its dedicated photo tray and borderless printing options. The auto duplex feature promotes eco-friendly printing, and the 2.4-inch touchscreen simplifies operation. However, it relies on original HP cartridges with HP chips, which can restrict third-party options and complicate refills. Its moderate print speeds may frustrate high-volume users, making it better suited for creative projects and family photo printing rather than rapid document production.
Pros:- High-quality color printing for photos and documents
- Wireless connectivity with mobile printing support
- Auto 2-sided printing saves paper
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Print speeds may be slow for large jobs
Best for: Home users interested in quality photo and creative printing
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing environments, due to slower speeds and cartridge restrictions
- Print Speed:10 ppm black, 7 ppm color
- Input Tray Capacity:100 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.4 inches
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi
- Sustainable Content:Made with at least 60% recycled plastic
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for households prioritizing photo quality and creative projects over speed or high-volume output.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 delivers fast, professional-quality printing suitable for busy home offices. Its impressive speed—20 ppm black and 10 ppm color—outperforms many multifunction printers like the HP Envy 6155 in speed and capacity. The large 225-sheet input tray reduces refilling interruptions, and the 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation. It includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial and features HP’s security suite, making it suitable for sensitive documents. However, its reliance on HP cartridges with specific circuitry and the need for firmware updates to maintain security can limit third-party options. It’s best for users needing rapid, reliable, and secure document handling.
Pros:- Fast color printing and versatile scanning/copying
- Large input capacity with 225 sheets
- Reliable dual-band Wi-Fi with security features
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Firmware updates necessary for security, which may restrict third-party cartridges
Best for: Small business or home office users needing fast, professional-quality output
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a budget-friendly, simple setup, given higher costs and security requirements
- Print Speed:20 ppm black, 10 ppm color
- Input Tray Capacity:225 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
- Security:HP Wolf Essential Security
Our verdict“This printer is best for users who need high-speed, professional-quality documents with security features in a home office setting.”
HP Envy Photo 7975 Wireless Color Inkjet Photo Printer
The HP Envy Photo 7975 caters to those who prioritize photo printing alongside documents, offering excellent borderless and color accuracy. Its wireless and mobile printing features make it flexible for creative projects, while the large touchscreen simplifies operation. The automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste, and the 3-month Instant Ink trial adds ongoing savings. However, its print speeds are slower when printing large volumes, and the higher cost of ink can add up for frequent printers. This model is best for families or hobbyists who want vibrant, professional-looking photos and creative prints rather than high-volume document production.
Pros:- High-quality photo printing with borderless options
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Large color touchscreen for easy navigation
Cons:- Print speeds are relatively slow for volume printing
- Premium features come at a higher cost, especially ink
Best for: Home users focused on photo quality and creative printing
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-turnaround printing needs, due to slower speeds and higher ink costs
- Print Speed:10 pages per minute color, 15 pages per minute black
- Functions:Print, copy, scan
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Photo Tray:Separate photo tray
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Touchscreen:Large color
- Included Trial:3 Month Instant Ink
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for creative households that value photo quality over rapid document output.”
Epson EcoTank ET-2903 Wireless All-in-One Color Supertank Printer with Refillable Tanks
This EcoTank model stands out for its incredibly long-lasting ink supply, capable of last up to 3 years, which makes it a strong choice for households with high printing volume. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TS4320, which is more affordable upfront, the ET-2903’s refillable tanks reduce ongoing costs significantly, though the initial investment is higher and setup can be more involved. Its high-resolution printing and support for mobile and wireless printing make it versatile for both documents and photos. The main tradeoff is the higher upfront price and potential complexity during setup, which might frustrate less tech-savvy users. Overall, this printer is best suited for families or small households aiming to minimize ink costs over time.
Pros:- Long-lasting ink supply up to 3 years, reducing refill frequency
- Refillable tanks cut waste and mess
- High-quality photo and text printing
- Supports mobile and wireless printing
Cons:- Initial setup may be complex for some users
- Higher upfront cost compared to traditional inkjet printers
Best for: Households with high-volume printing needs and a preference for low ongoing costs
Not ideal for: Casual users or those on a tight budget who prioritize initial affordability and simple setup
- Print Speed:11 PPM (black), 6 PPM (color)
- Maximum Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Paper Capacity:100 sheets
- Display:1.44-inch color screen
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing support
Our verdict“This model is ideal for families seeking a cost-effective, low-maintenance printer with high-quality output over the long term.”
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan
This Canon PIXMA TS4320 makes the list for its affordability and ease of use, particularly suited for light home tasks like occasional document and photo printing. Unlike the Brother MFC-J1360DW, which offers more paper capacity and faster speeds, the TS4320’s compact design and simple setup appeal to users with limited space and basic needs. Its lack of an OLED display and limited features mean it’s not ideal for frequent or high-volume printing, but it handles everyday tasks well. It’s a great choice for students or small households who prioritize ease and cost over professional-grade features. The main compromise is its limited durability for high-volume use, which could lead to quicker wear and tear.
Pros:- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Easy setup and wireless printing from smartphones
- Compact and stylish design fits small spaces
- Auto duplex printing saves paper
Cons:- Lacks advanced features like OLED display and ADF
- Limited to basic printing tasks, not suitable for high-volume or professional use
Best for: Students or families who need a straightforward, inexpensive printer for occasional use
Not ideal for: Heavy users or those requiring high-speed, high-volume printing for work or professional projects
- Printer Type:Color Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless (Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Media Support:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
Our verdict“This printer suits casual users seeking a simple, affordable solution for light home printing needs.”
Brother MFC-J1360DW Work Smart Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-J1360DW excels in flexibility, offering a good balance of speed, paper capacity, and multifunctionality for small offices or busy households. Its 16 ppm black and 9 ppm color speeds are adequate for most home tasks, especially compared to the slower Canon PIXMA TS4320. The automatic document feeder and high paper capacity make it more efficient for handling multi-page jobs. Its high-yield ink cartridges help control ongoing costs, but it’s still an inkjet, so it may not match the durability of laser printers for high-volume or professional printing. Its small display is less convenient than larger ones, but overall, this model offers a solid upgrade for anyone needing more productivity in a compact footprint.
Pros:- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Large paper capacity of 150 sheets
- High-yield ink cartridges for better cost control
Cons:- Print speeds may lag during high-volume tasks
- Limited to inkjet technology, less durable than laser
Best for: Small business owners or households with moderate printing demands and a need for versatility
Not ideal for: Users with very high-volume printing or those seeking laser-quality durability
- Print Speed:up to 16 ppm black, 9 ppm color
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:20 sheets
- Paper Capacity:150 sheets
- Display:1.8-inch color display
Our verdict“This printer balances versatility and efficiency, making it a good fit for small offices or busy households that need reliable multifunctionality.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing, and Built-in Fax
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers a comprehensive set of features, including faxing, making it ideal for home offices that need more than just printing. Its auto document feeder and auto 2-sided printing increase efficiency, especially compared with the simpler PIXMA TS4320. While its print speeds are modest and not suited for high-volume demands, it excels in versatility and ease of use. Built-in faxing is a rare feature in home printers, which adds value for users who still rely on traditional fax communication. The limited LCD display and moderate resolution are tradeoffs for its multifunctional design. Overall, it’s suited for small home offices needing reliable multifunctionality with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Includes fax, scan, copy, and print functions
- Auto document feeder and duplex printing
- Wireless connectivity with mobile printing
- Compact design for small spaces
Cons:- Limited to 1 paper tray, requiring frequent refills
- Basic LCD display may be less intuitive
Best for: Home office users who need to fax, scan, and print in a single device
Not ideal for: High-volume printing or professional-quality photo printing users
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Printer Output Type:Color
- Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
Our verdict“This all-in-one is perfect for busy home offices that require multifunctionality without occupying too much space.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing and Built-in Fax, Black
While similar to the previous PIXMA TR4720, this model emphasizes high-quality photo printing with a borderless 4″ x 6″ print speed of about 65 seconds, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TS4320, which is more affordable but less feature-rich, this version offers auto document feeding, faxing, and better connectivity options, though its slower print speed can be a drawback for larger jobs. Its compact size and decent resolution make it a good fit for families prioritizing photo quality and versatility. However, if speed or volume is a concern, this model might fall short. It’s best for users who want high-quality prints combined with multi-functionality in a small footprint.
Pros:- High-quality borderless photo printing
- Includes auto document feeder and fax
- Wireless and mobile printing support
- Compact size fits well in small spaces
Cons:- Slower print speeds for larger jobs
- Limited volume capacity for high-demand use
Best for: Home users who prioritize photo printing and multi-functionality in a compact device
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing environments where speed is critical
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Borderless Photo:Approx. 65 seconds for 4″ x 6″
- Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
Our verdict“This printer is well-suited for families and hobbyists seeking excellent photo quality alongside multifunctional features.”
Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR7120 stands out as the most well-rounded option for everyday home printing combined with occasional office tasks. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it offers a larger control display and automatic duplex printing, making it better suited for mixed media needs and higher-volume printing. Its high-quality color output and sharp text are ideal for families who print photos and documents regularly. The setup is straightforward, and mobile printing options enhance convenience. However, its media size limit of 8.5″ x 11″ and slower print speeds compared to larger office models might be a drawback for high-demand users. This pick makes the most sense for households needing a reliable, compact all-in-one with versatile features.
Pros:- Affordable all-in-one functionality for home and office
- High-quality vibrant prints and sharp text
- Easy setup and mobile printing options
- Automatic duplex printing saves time and paper
Cons:- Limited to media sizes up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Monochrome OLED display may be small for some users
- Print speed may be slower compared to larger office printers
Best for: Families or home professionals who want a reliable, multi-purpose printer with good print quality and mobile connectivity.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty small business environments or users needing fast, high-volume printing—its speed and media size are limiting.
- Printer Type:Wireless Color Inkjet
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Display:1.42-inch Monochrome OLED
- Media Size:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for families or small households seeking versatile, high-quality printing without high costs.”
HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier with Up to 3 Years of Ink Included
The HP Smart Tank 5003 is designed specifically for users who prioritize low cost per page and high-volume printing. Compared with the Canon MegaTank G3270, it offers similar ink yield but includes up to 3 years of ink, reducing the need for frequent refills and maintenance. Its refill system is mess-free, making it suitable for households or small offices that print frequently. While setup can be a bit complex initially, the long-term savings and reliable wireless connection are attractive. Its limitations include being best suited for small-scale or home use, as it lacks advanced features for high-speed or large-scale office environments. This model fits those who want consistent, economical printing with minimal fuss.
Pros:- High-volume printing with up to 3 years of ink included
- Mess-free, refillable ink tank system
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Low maintenance and reliable operation
Cons:- Limited to home and small office use
- Initial setup may be complex for some users
Best for: Home users or small offices needing high-volume printing with minimal refill hassle and long-term ink savings.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty office environments or users requiring very fast print speeds—initial setup may be complex for less tech-savvy users.
- Functions:Print, copy, scan
- Ink Included:Up to 3 years
- Print Technology:Ink tank
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Refill System:Mess-free, cartridge-free
Our verdict“Ideal for households or small teams aiming for economical, high-volume printing with minimal ongoing costs.”
Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Color Printer
The Canon MegaTank G3270 emphasizes high page yields, offering enough ink to print up to 6,000 black-and-white and 7,700 color pages. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TR7120, it is less focused on photo quality but excels in high-volume document printing. Its 1.35-inch LCD simplifies operation, and its wireless connectivity makes it suitable for shared home or small office use. However, the printer’s size can be a concern for tight spaces, and it only supports single-sided printing, which could slow down multi-page jobs. This model is best suited for users who prioritize quantity over photo quality and want a cost-effective printer for frequent document printing.
Pros:- High page yield with included ink
- Wireless connectivity for convenience
- All-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan)
Cons:- Limited to single-sided printing
- Size may be bulky for small spaces
Best for: Small offices or home users with high-volume printing needs, especially for documents and reports.
Not ideal for: Users who need duplex or photo printing—its single-sided printing and focus on volume may be limiting.
- Wireless:Yes
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan
- Ink Included:Up to 2 years
- Page Yield:6,000 BW / 7,700 color pages
- Display:1.35-inch LCD
- Printing:Single-sided
Our verdict“A strong choice for those who need high-volume document printing at a lower cost per page.”
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex Printing
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is designed for users who want a compact, affordable all-in-one printer for diverse tasks. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TR7120, it is smaller and offers basic monochrome OLED display, making it more suitable for tight spaces. Its duplex printing capability adds efficiency for double-sided documents, but it only uses a 2-cartridge system, which may lead to more frequent ink replacements, especially for color printing. Its easy setup and support for mobile printing via Canon PRINT, AirPrint, and Mopria make it a good choice for casual users. However, its limited high-volume capacity and basic display may not meet the demands of frequent or large-scale printing jobs. This printer fits small households or offices needing space-saving functionality.
Pros:- Affordable and versatile all-in-one design
- High-quality color and black-and-white prints
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Supports mobile printing and duplexing
Cons:- Limited to 2-cartridge hybrid ink system
- No high-volume printing features
Best for: Small households or casual home offices that need versatile printing without occupying much space.
Not ideal for: High-volume or professional printing environments—its ink system and speed are more suited for light use.
- Printer Type:All-in-one inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Media Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Display:1.42-inch Monochrome OLED
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Mobile Printing:Canon PRINT, AirPrint, Mopria
Our verdict“Ideal for space-constrained homes seeking a reliable, all-in-one printer for occasional use.”
How We Picked
To determine the best home printers, I evaluated each model based on performance, print quality, ease of use, maintenance costs, and value for money. I also considered how well each printer integrates with mobile devices and home networks, as well as the versatility of features like scanning, copying, and photo printing. The ranking reflects a balance between upfront cost and ongoing expenses, ensuring that both casual and high-volume users find suitable options. My approach focused on practical, real-world usability rather than niche or overly complex features that most home users wouldn’t need.| home printer | Printer Type | Functions |
|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-i | Inkjet | — |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless | All-in-One | — |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-O | — | — |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless | — | — |
| HP Envy Photo 7975 Wireless Co | — | Print, copy, scan |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2903 Wireless | — | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Color Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Work Smart | — | — |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Inkjet | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Co | Wireless Color Inkjet | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless Al | — | Print, copy, scan |
| Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-On | — | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | All-in-one inkjet | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Home Printers
Choosing the right home printer involves more than just comparing prices. Consider how much you print regularly, whether photo quality matters, and if you prefer inkjet or laser technology. Easy setup and reliable wireless connectivity can save frustration, especially in busy households. It’s also wise to evaluate ongoing costs, such as ink or toner replacement, to avoid surprises down the line. Finally, think about the physical size and whether additional features like scanning or faxing are necessary for your daily tasks. Making an informed choice helps prevent buyer’s remorse and ensures you select a printer tailored to your needs.Performance and Print Quality
High print resolution and consistent color output matter if you print photos or detailed documents regularly. Laser printers typically excel in speed and text quality, making them a good choice for office-like tasks at home. Inkjet printers tend to offer better photo quality, but they may require more maintenance. Think about your primary use: if documents are your main concern, prioritize models with sharp text output, while photo enthusiasts should look for printers with high dpi and color accuracy. Balancing quality and speed ensures your printer meets your expectations without unnecessary expense.
Cost of Ownership
Initial purchase price is just part of the total expense. Inkjet printers often have lower upfront costs but can be expensive to run due to frequent ink cartridge replacements. Conversely, supertank models like Epson EcoTank or Canon MegaTank offer refillable ink tanks that significantly reduce per-page costs, ideal for high-volume printing. Laser printers, while pricier initially, tend to have lower ongoing costs and faster output. Consider your monthly printing volume and choose a model where ink or toner costs align with your budget over time.
Ease of Use and Connectivity
Modern home printers should connect seamlessly via Wi-Fi, with support for mobile printing apps, AirPrint, or Google Cloud Print. Easy setup and reliable wireless connections prevent frustration and save time. Touchscreen controls and straightforward interfaces also enhance user experience, especially for less tech-savvy users. Keep in mind that some models require proprietary apps or complicated network configurations, which can be a hassle. Opt for brands and models that prioritize simplicity and compatibility with your devices.
Size and Design
Space constraints matter, especially in smaller homes or apartments. Compact printers save room but might compromise on features or paper capacity. All-in-one models tend to be larger but provide multiple functions, reducing clutter. Consider where you’ll place your printer and whether you need a sleek, minimal design or are willing to accommodate a larger device for added functionality. A well-designed, space-appropriate printer helps maintain an organized and functional home workspace.
Additional Features
Features like automatic document feeders, duplex printing, or built-in fax can streamline your workflow but often add to the cost. For casual use, basic models with wireless printing suffice, but households with frequent multi-page scans or copies benefit from auto feeders and faster speeds. Photo printing capabilities are a bonus for creative users, but they come at a premium. Prioritize features based on your actual needs to avoid paying for extras you won’t use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a color or monochrome printer for home use?
If most of your printing involves photos, graphics, or color-coded documents, a color printer offers more versatility and visual appeal. However, if you primarily print text documents, a monochrome laser printer can be more cost-effective and faster, with lower running costs. Color inkjet printers tend to be more expensive to maintain due to color cartridge replacements, whereas monochrome lasers are more economical for high-volume text printing. Consider your typical print jobs and ongoing costs when making this choice.
Are all-in-one printers worth the extra cost?
All-in-one printers that include scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing add convenience and reduce the need for multiple devices. For most home users, this multi-functionality justifies a slightly higher price, especially if you regularly scan or copy documents. However, if you only need to print occasionally and don’t require scanning, a dedicated printer might be cheaper and simpler to operate. Think about your typical tasks to decide if the extra features will genuinely improve your daily workflow.
How important is wireless connectivity for home printers?
Wireless connectivity significantly enhances convenience by allowing multiple devices to print without cables. It also simplifies placement, freeing you from tethered setups. However, reliable Wi-Fi can sometimes be an issue with certain models, leading to frustrating connection drops. If your network is stable, wireless is a clear advantage; if not, a wired connection or Ethernet might provide more consistent performance. Consider your home network quality and how many users need access to make the best decision.
What’s the real difference between inkjet and laser printers for home use?
Inkjet printers generally excel at printing high-quality photos and color-rich images, but they tend to have higher per-page costs and slower speeds. Laser printers are faster, produce sharper text, and are more economical for large volumes of monochrome printing. For households that print infrequently or mainly text documents, a laser model could save money and time. Conversely, if you’re into photo printing or color projects, an inkjet might be worth the extra effort and expense.
How often should I replace ink or toner in my home printer?
The replacement frequency depends heavily on your printing volume and the type of printer. Inkjet cartridges typically need replacing after printing a few hundred pages, especially if printing in color or photos. Supertank models significantly extend this interval thanks to larger refillable tanks, sometimes lasting months or even years. Laser toner cartridges can print thousands of pages before requiring replacement, making them ideal for high-volume use. Monitoring your usage and choosing a model with appropriate capacity can help avoid unexpected downtime.
Conclusion
For most households, the HP Envy 6155 offers a reliable all-in-one experience that balances features and affordability, making it the best overall choice. If you’re looking for long-term savings and high-volume printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 stands out as the best value. For those who prioritize photo printing or professional-quality output, a premium model like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 delivers exceptional results. Beginners or casual users should consider simpler, more affordable options, while creative or high-demand households will benefit from models with advanced features and larger ink supplies. Tailoring your choice to your typical print volume and specific needs ensures satisfaction in the long run.
