Finding the right printer for your home can feel overwhelming with so many options available. The best overall pick in 2026 is the HP Smart Tank 5003 for its cost-efficient ink system and reliable performance. If you want a compact model, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 stands out for its ease of use, while the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 is ideal for high-volume printing. Each choice involves tradeoffs like upfront cost versus ongoing ink expenses or multifunctionality versus simplicity. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance print quality, cost of ink, and ease of use, revealing that no single feature dominates in all categories.
- All-in-one models generally offer better value for home users needing scanning and copying, but some sacrifice speed or print quality.
- Ink tank printers tend to lower ongoing costs but often come with a higher initial price and larger footprint.
- Compact printers are perfect for small spaces but may lack features like duplex printing or high-volume capacity.
- Premium models deliver faster speeds and better print quality but at a higher price point, making them suitable for those with heavier printing needs.
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier |  | Best Overall for High-Volume Printing | Functionality: Print, copy, scan | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | Ink System: Refillable ink tank | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing and Auto Document Feeder |  | Best for Versatile Home Use and Photo Printing | Printer Type: Color Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless (Dual-band Wi-Fi) | Print Size: Up to 8.5” x 11” | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8″ Color Display |  | Best for Small Office Compatibility and Cloud Integration | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless, USB | Display: 1.8-inch Color Display | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Color Photos and Easy Mobile Use | Print Speed: 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color | Input Tray Capacity: 100 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.4-inch color touchscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget Choice for Basic Home Printing | Print Speed (Black): 7.5 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 5.5 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer – Black |  | Best Overall for High-Volume Home Printing | Print Speed: 10 ppm | Color Printing: Yes | Wireless: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for Home Use, White |  | Best for Easy, Basic Home Printing | Print Speed (Black): 7.7 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 4 ppm | Display: 1.5″ LCD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Basic Home Users Who Need Speed | Print Speed: Up to 7.5 ppm black | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing |  | Best for Quality and Space-Conscious Users | Printer Type: Wireless Color Inkjet | Display: 1.42” OLED | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Home Use |  | Best Budget-Friendly All-in-One for Occasional Use | Printer Type: Color Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer with Auto Document Feed and Fax |  | Best Overall Home Printer for Versatility | Product Type: All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Fast, Professional-Quality Home Office Printing | Print Speed (Black): 20 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 10 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 225 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Black |  | Best for High-Quality Photos and Versatile Home Use | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless | Print Speed: Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8135 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Fast, High-Volume Home Office Printing | Print Speed (Black): 20 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 10 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 225 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| printer for home | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless Al | Wireless, mobile printing |
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Co | Wireless (Dual-band Wi-Fi) |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless C | Wireless, USB |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-O | Dual-band Wi-Fi |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All- | — |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless Al | Dual Band Wi-Fi |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-i | Wireless |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Dual-band Wi-Fi |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Wireless |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wireless |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless | Wireless, dual-band Wi-Fi |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wireless |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8135 Wireless | Wireless, dual-band Wi-Fi |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP Smart Tank 5003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier
The HP Smart Tank 5003 stands out for those who need to print large volumes without constantly replacing cartridges. Its refillable ink tank system offers a significant cost advantage over models like the Canon PIXMA TR7120, especially for users with heavy printing needs. While the setup can be more involved and the size larger than typical home printers, the included ink lasts up to 3 years, making it ideal for busy households or small offices. The wireless and mobile printing features add convenience, but the printer’s bulk could be a challenge in tight spaces. Compared to smaller inkjet models, its high-capacity ink system is a real game-changer for cost-conscious users.
Pros:- High-volume printing with up to 3 years of ink included
- Mess-free, easy refill system
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
Cons:- Larger size may be difficult to fit in small spaces
- Initial setup could be complex for less tech-savvy users
Best for: Home users or small business owners who print high volumes regularly and want to minimize ink costs.
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users with limited space, due to its larger footprint and setup complexity.
- Functionality:Print, copy, scan
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Ink System:Refillable ink tank
- Included Ink:Up to 3 years of ink
- Print Volume:Up to 6,000 color or black pages
- Size:Larger than typical home printers
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for those prioritizing low ongoing ink costs and high-volume output over compact size.”
Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing and Auto Document Feeder
The Canon PIXMA TR7120 offers a balanced mix of quality and affordability, making it ideal for households that print both documents and photos. Its compact design and intuitive controls make it easy to set up and use, especially compared to larger models like the HP Smart Tank 5003. While its media support is limited to 8.5” x 11”, it excels at delivering vibrant, high-quality prints and has convenient features like duplex printing and an auto document feeder. The small OLED display might be less visible in bright environments, but its versatility in handling various media types makes it appealing for everyday family printing and occasional photo projects.
Pros:- Affordable all-in-one with versatile features
- Vibrant, high-quality color prints
- Compact, space-saving design
Cons:- Limited to 8.5” x 11” media size
- Small OLED display can be less visible in bright light
Best for: Families or individuals who want a versatile printer that handles photos and documents with ease.
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume printing or those needing large paper sizes, due to media size limitations and slower speeds.
- Printer Type:Color Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless (Dual-band Wi-Fi)
- Print Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Display:1.42” Monochrome OLED
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Color Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for households seeking a compact, photo-capable device for everyday tasks.”
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8″ Color Display
The Brother MFC-J1360DW is suitable for users who need more connectivity options and cloud integration, combining wireless and USB interfaces. Its automatic duplex printing and 150-sheet paper capacity make it practical for light office or multi-purpose home use, outperforming basic models like the HP DeskJet 2855e. The 1.8-inch color display simplifies operation, but slower print speeds—16 ppm in black—might be frustrating for larger print jobs. Its use of specific ink series could increase ongoing costs, but overall, it offers a solid balance between functionality and ease of use for those who want a reliable, feature-rich device.
Pros:- Wireless and USB connectivity options
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Cloud app integration for easy printing/scanning
Cons:- Slower print speeds for high-volume jobs
- Limited display size reduces ease of navigation
Best for: Home office users who need reliable document handling and cloud connectivity.
Not ideal for: Heavy, high-volume printing or users seeking the fastest output, as speeds are modest.
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Display:1.8-inch Color Display
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Paper Capacity:150 sheets
- Uses Inks:LC501 Series
Our verdict“Ideal for home offices needing a versatile, connected printer that balances features with moderate speed.”
HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy 6155 appeals to those who want high-quality color printing for photos and documents at home. Its 2.4-inch touchscreen makes operation straightforward, and the included 3-month Instant Ink trial reduces ongoing costs initially. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2855e, it offers better print quality and a more user-friendly interface, but it requires original HP cartridges with chips, which can be more costly and less flexible with third-party inks. Its modest print speeds of 10 ppm black and 7 ppm color are adequate for casual use but less suited for frequent high-volume jobs.
Pros:- High-quality color printing suitable for photos
- Wireless connectivity with simple mobile printing
- Auto duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Requires proprietary HP cartridges with chips
- Limited to moderate print speeds
Best for: Home users who prioritize photo quality and ease of use for occasional printing tasks.
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-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
- Functionality:Print, scan, copy
Our verdict“Best for casual home users focusing on photo quality and user-friendly features over high-speed printing.”
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2855e serves as a straightforward, budget-friendly option for casual home printing, scanning, and copying. Its modest print speeds—7.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color—are sufficient for light use, like printing emails or schoolwork. Its 60-sheet input tray limits daily volume, but the inclusion of a 3-month Instant Ink trial adds value for those who prefer subscription-based ink delivery. Compared to larger, more feature-rich models like the Brother MFC-J1360DW, it offers simplicity but at the expense of speed and paper capacity. It’s best suited for occasional printing needs in small households.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy
- Wireless printing over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial
Cons:- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only
- Moderate print speeds may slow down busy households
Best for: Families or individuals with light printing needs looking for an affordable, easy-to-use printer.
Not ideal for: Heavy or high-volume printing tasks, or users needing larger paper handling capacity.
- Print Speed (Black):7.5 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):5.5 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Wireless Capability:2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Includes:3-month Instant Ink
- Functionality:Print, scan, copy
Our verdict“This model is ideal for infrequent, basic printing tasks in households with minimal volume needs.”
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer – Black
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 stands out for its cartridge-free, high-volume printing capability, making it ideal for families or home offices with frequent printing needs. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, which offers vibrant color and duplexing, the EcoTank’s main advantage is its savings on ink replacements thanks to its supertank system. However, the initial setup can be tricky, and its slower print speed may frustrate users needing quick output for large batches. The high page yield (up to 7,500 pages in color) translates into fewer interruptions and lower ongoing costs, but you must use genuine Epson ink bottles for reliability. Overall, this model suits those prioritizing cost-efficiency and volume over speed or ultra-compact size.
Pros:- Cartridge-free printing reduces waste and ongoing costs
- High page yield with included ink bottles
- Wireless connectivity for multi-device use
- Vivid, detailed color prints
Cons:- Requires genuine Epson ink for optimal performance
- Print speed may be slow for large tasks
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Homes with frequent, high-volume printing and a preference for eco-friendly, low-cost ink solutions.
Not ideal for: Users needing fast print speeds or a compact design for limited space, as setup can be complex and speed moderate.
- Print Speed:10 ppm
- Color Printing:Yes
- Wireless:Yes
- Ink System:EcoTank supertank
- Print Technology:Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology
- Maximum Pages (Black):4,500
- Maximum Pages (Color):7,500
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for households that prioritize high-volume, economical printing over speed or compactness.”
Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for Home Use, White
The Canon PIXMA TS3720 offers straightforward setup and reliable wireless printing, making it a good choice for users seeking simplicity. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, which has a faster print speed, the PIXMA excels in media versatility, supporting envelopes, photos, and banners. Its 1.5″ LCD simplifies operation, though its slower print speed (7.7 ppm black and 4 ppm color) makes it less suitable for high-volume tasks. The compact design and support for mobile printing provide convenience for everyday use, but the limited media size (up to 8.5” x 11”) and basic monochrome display may feel restrictive for more demanding projects. Overall, this model is perfect for those needing dependable, occasional printing without fuss.
Pros:- Easy setup and wireless connectivity
- Supports various media types including banners and photos
- Compact and space-efficient design
- Supports mobile printing apps
Cons:- Single-sided printing only
- Slower speed for color images
- Limited media size restricts larger projects
Best for: Families or students requiring reliable, easy-to-use printer for occasional color and media versatility.
Not ideal for: Users with high-volume needs or those wanting fast, duplex printing for busy households or small offices.
- Print Speed (Black):7.7 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):4 ppm
- Display:1.5″ LCD
- Connectivity:Dual Band Wi-Fi
- Media Support:Envelopes, photos, banners
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Ideal for users who prioritize ease of use and media versatility over speed and volume.”
HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2955 combines ease of use with solid performance, making it a strong choice for casual households. It offers fast print speeds (up to 7.5 ppm black), and its intuitive LCD control panel simplifies operation, especially for users unfamiliar with tech. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS3720, which excels in media support, the HP model prioritizes speed and simplicity, with a compact, eco-friendly design made from recycled plastics. The included 3-month Instant Ink trial can reduce ongoing costs, but after that, a subscription is necessary for savings, which may not appeal to infrequent users. It handles basic printing, copying, and scanning well but isn’t suited for high-volume or photo-heavy projects.
Pros:- Fast, reliable print speeds
- Easy-to-use LCD control panel
- Wireless and mobile printing support
- Eco-friendly recycled plastic construction
Cons:- Requires subscription after trial for cost savings
- Limited to basic printing tasks
- No advanced photo printing features
Best for: Casual users or families who need quick, reliable printing for everyday documents and occasional photos.
Not ideal for: Photographers or heavy users requiring high-quality photo printing or large-volume output.
- Print Speed:Up to 7.5 ppm black
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Eco Certification:Recycled plastics
Our verdict“This printer works best for casual users seeking quick, straightforward printing without high-volume demands.”
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Duplex Printing
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 delivers high-quality, vibrant prints, making it ideal for families or hybrid workers who need both photos and documents. Its affordable price point and compact design contrast with higher-end models, yet it still offers automatic duplex printing and reliable wireless connectivity. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2955, which emphasizes speed, the TS6520 focuses on print quality and versatility, especially with its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system. Its slower speed and limited media size (up to 8.5” x 11”) may be a drawback for those with frequent high-volume tasks. The 1.42” OLED display enhances ease of use, but less demanding users will appreciate its balance of quality, cost, and space efficiency.
Pros:- High-quality, vibrant color output
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Compact, stylish design
- Easy setup with mobile printing support
Cons:- Limited to 8.5” x 11” media
- Slower print speeds than some competitors
- Basic OLED display may be less detailed
Best for: Home users who prioritize high-quality photo printing and space-saving design without requiring high volume or speed.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty households or small offices that need rapid, high-volume printing or larger media support.
- Printer Type:Wireless Color Inkjet
- Display:1.42” OLED
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Media Support:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This printer suits users seeking high-quality prints in a compact form factor for moderate-volume needs.”
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer for Home Use
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 provides a budget-friendly solution for casual home printing, offering reliable wireless connectivity and good print quality. Unlike the HP DeskJet 2955, which emphasizes speed and modern design, the TS4320 focuses on affordability and straightforward operation. Its automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste, but its slower speed makes it less ideal for high-volume tasks. The two-cartridge system means more frequent ink replacements, which could increase long-term costs for frequent users. Its compatibility with various media and easy setup make it suitable for occasional document and photo printing, especially in smaller spaces.
Pros:- Affordable and easy to set up
- Supports duplex printing
- Good print quality for photos and documents
- Wireless and mobile printing support
Cons:- Slower print speeds
- Limited media size (up to 8.5” x 11”)
- Two-cartridge system may lead to frequent ink changes
Best for: Budget-conscious households needing occasional, decent-quality printing for documents and photos.
Not ideal for: Heavy or high-volume users, or those needing fast turnaround times or advanced photo printing.
- Printer Type:Color Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Media Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Eco Certification:EPEAT Silver, ENERGY STAR
Our verdict“This model is well-suited for infrequent users who want decent quality at an affordable price point.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer with Auto Document Feed and Fax
This model stands out for its well-rounded feature set, combining printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in a compact, wireless package. Compared with the Canon PIXMA TS4320, the TR4720 adds fax capability and a built-in auto document feeder, making it more suitable for light home office tasks. However, it relies on starter ink cartridges that may need frequent replacement, and setup via mobile app can be a hurdle for some users. Its versatility makes it ideal for families or small households that need multi-functionality without taking up much space, but it’s less suitable for high-volume printing or photo-intensive projects.
Pros:- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (print, copy, scan, fax)
- Wireless connectivity for multi-device use
- Compact design fits well in small spaces
Cons:- Limited to light home or occasional use
- Starter ink cartridges may run out quickly, increasing ongoing costs
- Setup can be complex via mobile app for some users
Best for: Families or small households needing a compact, all-in-one device for occasional printing, copying, and faxing
Not ideal for: Users requiring high-volume printing or photo printing, as ink costs and speed may be limiting
- Product Type:All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Included Ink:PG-275 Black, CL-276 Color
- Country of Origin:Japan
Our verdict“This printer suits households seeking a budget-friendly, multi-function device that fits in tight spaces but is less ideal for high-volume printing needs.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
This pick makes the most sense for those who prioritize speed and professional-looking documents. Its 20 ppm black and 10 ppm color speeds surpass the Canon PIXMA TR4720, making it suitable for small home offices with moderate printing demands. The 2.7-inch touchscreen offers intuitive control, and the inclusion of a 3-month Instant Ink trial can cut down ongoing costs. Compared to the HP OfficeJet 8135, the 8125 is more streamlined and less feature-rich, but it still handles duplex printing and scanning well. The main tradeoff is that it requires specific HP cartridges with circuitry, which could limit third-party options and add costs over time.
Pros:- Fast black and color printing speeds
- User-friendly 2.7-inch touchscreen interface
- Includes 3 months of Instant Ink for cost savings
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with HP circuitry
- Firmware updates may restrict third-party cartridges
- Ongoing costs can be higher without Instant Ink subscription
Best for: Home office users needing quick, professional-quality color printing with reliable wireless connectivity
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume print users or those wanting a broader range of advanced features like faxing or larger paper capacity
- Print Speed (Black):20 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):10 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:225 sheets
- Touchscreen Size:2.7 inches
- Connectivity:Wireless, dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
Our verdict“This printer works best for home offices needing quick, reliable color prints and easy operation, but it may incur higher cartridge costs over time.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Black
This version of the PIXMA TR4720 emphasizes high-quality photo and document printing, with auto duplex and an auto document feeder for efficiency. While similar to the B0BWDF7HVM model, this one is tailored for users who value photo clarity and crisp text output. It produces decent speeds for home use—around 8.8 ipm black and 4.4 ipm color—and can handle borderless printing up to 8.5″ x 11″. It’s more suited for users who need quality over speed, such as hobbyists or casual photographers. The absence of detailed print resolution specifics and its limited capacity make it less ideal for demanding or high-volume tasks, but its ease of use and smart features like Alexa support are definite plus.
Pros:- Wireless connectivity for multiple devices
- Auto document feeder and duplex printing save time
- Supports high-quality photo and document printing
Cons:- Lacks detailed print resolution info for photos
- Limited paper capacity of 100 sheets
- Not designed for high-volume or rapid printing
Best for: Home users emphasizing photo quality and occasional document printing, especially those who want smart device integration
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty office environments or users needing fast, high-volume printing regularly
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Print Speed:Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color)
- Borderless Printing:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for households that prioritize photo clarity and convenience over speed and volume, but it isn’t suited for demanding workloads.”
HP OfficeJet Pro 8135 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8135 is aimed at home office users who need rapid turnaround and efficient multi-functionality. It matches the speed of the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 with 20 ppm black and 10 ppm color, but adds more robust features like a larger paper tray capacity of 225 sheets and a 2.7-inch color touchscreen. While it offers similar Instant Ink benefits, its main limitation is the reliance on specific HP cartridges with circuitry, potentially increasing ongoing costs and limiting third-party options. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TR4720, the 8135 is less compact but better suited for those with higher print volumes and frequent use, though it’s still not meant for heavy duty commercial environments.
Pros:- Fast black and color printing speeds
- Large input tray capacity for higher volume
- Intuitive color touchscreen interface
Cons:- Requires HP-specific cartridges with circuitry
- Firmware updates may limit third-party use
- Designed primarily for office work, not photo printing
Best for: Home office professionals who need fast, efficient, and reliable multi-function printing with larger paper capacity
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with infrequent printing needs who don’t require high speed or volume
- Print Speed (Black):20 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):10 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:225 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color
- Connectivity:Wireless, dual-band Wi-Fi
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
Our verdict“This printer suits home offices with moderate to high printing needs that value speed, capacity, and ease of use, but ongoing costs may be a concern.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on several key factors that are critical for home users: print and scan quality, ink efficiency, ease of setup and use, cost of maintenance, and versatility. We compared models based on real-world usability, considering both initial purchase price and ongoing ink expenses to assess overall value. Durability and build quality were also important, especially for households with frequent printing needs. The ranking reflects a balanced view, favoring models that excel in common home scenarios while highlighting tradeoffs like size or speed for those with specific priorities.Factors to Consider When Choosing Printer For Home
Choosing the right printer for home use involves more than just looking at features. It’s important to consider your typical printing volume, whether you need scanning or copying, and your space constraints. Understanding these factors helps avoid costly mistakes like overpaying for features you won’t use or buying a model that’s too bulky for your setup. Additionally, consider ink costs, as they can significantly impact ongoing expenses, and pay attention to connectivity options for seamless integration with your devices.Printing Volume and Speed
Assess how much you plan to print regularly. For occasional printing, a basic inkjet or compact model works well, but if you print frequently or in high volumes, look for models with higher page yields and faster speeds. Ink tank printers tend to be more economical over time for high-volume households, though they may take up more space. Speed can matter if you often print large documents, so balance your needs with available space and budget.
Multifunctionality vs Simplicity
Decide whether you need a multifunction printer that scans, copies, and faxes, or if a simpler, single-function printer suffices. All-in-one models offer convenience but can be bulkier and more complex to operate. If your needs are light, a straightforward printer reduces clutter and complexity, but you might miss out on features like duplex printing or automatic document feeders which save time on larger jobs.
Cost of Ink and Maintenance
Ongoing ink costs are often overlooked during purchase. Ink tank models typically have higher upfront prices but lower per-page costs, making them ideal for heavy users. Standard inkjet printers may seem cheaper initially but can become costly over time due to frequent ink replacements. Consider the total cost of ownership, especially if you print often or in color, to avoid surprises down the line.
Space and Connectivity
Measure your available space to choose a printer that fits comfortably without cluttering your home. Compact printers are great for small desks or kitchens but may lack features like duplex or high-capacity trays. Connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile printing are essential for easy access from multiple devices. Prioritize models with the connectivity features you need to streamline printing from smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
Print Quality and Resolution
Assess the quality you need for your prints. Photos or high-quality documents require higher resolution and color accuracy, favoring inkjet models like Canon’s PIXMA series. For text-heavy documents, laser or high-quality inkjet printers will produce sharper results. Keep in mind that higher resolution models may come at a premium price, so match the quality to your typical printing tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose an inkjet or laser printer for home use?
For most home users, inkjet printers tend to be more versatile, especially for printing photos and color documents. They are generally less expensive upfront and better suited for occasional printing. Laser printers, on the other hand, excel at high-volume black-and-white printing, offering faster speeds and lower cost per page, but they come with higher initial costs and are often bulkier. Your choice depends on your typical print volume and whether color or photo printing is a priority.
Is it worth paying extra for a multifunction printer?
Investing in a multifunction printer makes sense if you frequently scan or copy documents, as it consolidates multiple tasks into one device and saves space. However, multifunction models may be more complex and slightly slower than single-function printers. If your printing needs are simple, a basic model might be more cost-effective and easier to operate. Consider whether the convenience outweighs the added complexity for your household.
How important is print speed for home use?
Print speed becomes relevant if you often print large documents or multiple pages at once. For casual printing, slower speeds are usually acceptable and won’t impact your daily routine. If speed is a priority, look for models with higher pages-per-minute ratings, but remember that faster printers often cost more and may consume more power or space. Balance speed needs with your available space and budget.
Are wireless connectivity options necessary?
Wireless connectivity adds significant convenience, allowing you to print directly from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without cables. For households with multiple devices, Wi-Fi-enabled printers streamline the process and reduce clutter. However, if your setup remains stationary or wired connections are preferred, you might opt for models with Ethernet or USB options. Wireless features typically add to the initial cost but improve usability.
What should I know about ink costs over time?
Ongoing ink expenses can surpass the initial purchase price, especially with traditional inkjet printers. Models with ink tanks or high-yield cartridges can drastically lower per-page costs, which is ideal for frequent printing. Always check the cost of replacement ink and the expected page yields before buying. Choosing a printer with affordable ink options can save hundreds of dollars over its lifespan.
Conclusion
For households that print occasionally and want simplicity, a compact inkjet like the Canon PIXMA TS3720 offers ease of use at an affordable price. Heavy users or families with high-volume needs should consider the HP Smart Tank 5003 or HP OfficeJet Pro models for their lower ongoing ink costs and faster speeds. For those seeking a premium experience with the fastest speeds and best print quality, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8135 is a clear choice. Beginners will benefit from straightforward setup and reliable performance, while small-space dwellers should prioritize compact models with Wi-Fi. Your ideal choice depends on your specific printing habits, space, and budget.
