Finding the best home printer can be a challenge with so many options available. The ideal choice depends on your specific needs, whether that’s color printing, scanning, or high-volume output. The Canon PIXMA TR7120 stands out as the overall best for its balance of quality and features, while the Brother INKvestment 5010 offers great value for its automatic duplexing and touchscreen. However, tradeoffs include cost, ink efficiency, and multifunctionality. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these printers to find the perfect fit for your home.
Key Takeaways
- The most versatile printers combine printing, scanning, and copying in one device, but often come at a higher price point.
- Ink tank models like Epson EcoTank offer long-term savings but require a higher initial investment.
- Compact printers are suitable for small spaces but may lack advanced features or speed.
- Color inkjet printers excel for photo printing, whereas monochrome laser models are better for document-heavy use.
- Price often correlates with functionality; budget models may save money upfront but incur higher ink costs over time.
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Use | Printer Type: All-in-one inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Display: 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP OfficeJet 5255 Wireless All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Quick Setup and Cost Savings | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan |  | Best for Small Business or Heavy Document Use | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget All-in-One for Light Use | Print Speed (Color): 5.5 ppm | Print Speed (Black): 7.5 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer |  | Best for High-Volume, Low-Cost Color Printing | Printer Type: Thermal Inkjet | Wireless: Yes | High-volume printer tank: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy for Home Use, Black |  | Best Overall for Cost-Effective, High-Volume Home Printing | Printer Type: All-in-One (Print, Scan, Copy) | Connectivity: Wireless, USB | Print Speed: 10 ISO pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner and Copier – Black |  | Best for Versatility with High Page Yield at Home or Small Office | Printer Type: All-in-One | Connectivity: Wireless | Included Ink Yield: Up to 4,500 pages per set | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier |  | Best for High-Volume, Budget-Friendly Home Printing with AI Features | Functionality: Print, copy, scan | Ink System: Refillable ink tank | Included Ink: Up to 3 years | 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 Multi-Function Home Use with Fax and Auto Document Feeding | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Print Speed: Approx. 8.8 ipm (Black), 4.4 ipm (Color) | Borderless Printing: Up to 8.5″ x 11″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier with Up to 3 Years of Ink Included |  | Best for Extended High-Volume Home Printing with Long Ink Life | Functionality: Print, copy, scan | Ink System: Refillable ink tank | Included Ink: Up to 3 years | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS8820 Wireless All-In-One Inkjet Printer |  | Best Overall for High-Quality Photo Printing | Print Technology: Inkjet | Color: Color | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget-Friendly Choice for Basic Home Use | Printer Type: All-in-one inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Print Size: Up to 8.5” x 11” | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Compact All-in-One with Versatile Media Handling | Display: 1.42” OLED | Printer Type: Color Inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz), Mobile Printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother INKvestment 5010 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Automatic Duplex and 2.7” Touchscreen |  | Best for Small Business and High-Volume Home Printing | Printer Type: Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One | Automatic Duplex: Yes | Touchscreen: 2.7 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| home printer | Connectivity | Printer Type |
|---|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | All-in-one inkjet |
| HP OfficeJet 5255 Wireless All | — | — |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Wi-Fi (dual-band), Ethernet, USB 2.0 | — |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All- | — | — |
| HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless Al | — | Thermal Inkjet |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless | Wireless, USB | All-in-One (Print, Scan, Copy) |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless | Wireless | All-in-One |
| HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless Al | Wireless, mobile printing | — |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | — | — |
| HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless Al | Wireless, mobile printing | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS8820 Wireless Al | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz) | All-in-one inkjet |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz), Mobile Printing | Color Inkjet |
| Brother INKvestment 5010 Wirel | — | Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR7120 stands out as the most balanced all-in-one inkjet for home environments, combining high-quality color printing, scanning, and copying with ease of use. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2855e, it offers better print quality and a more comprehensive feature set, though it’s slightly larger and more expensive. Its automatic duplex printing and auto document feeder streamline daily tasks, making it ideal for families or remote workers who need reliable, versatile output. The compact design and intuitive controls make setup straightforward, even for less tech-savvy users. The small OLED display may be less convenient for some, and its dual-cartridge system could lead to more frequent ink replacements. The absence of Ethernet limits connectivity options for some.
Pros:- High-quality color printing and scanning
- Automatic duplex printing and auto document feeder for convenience
- Compact, stylish design suitable for small spaces
- Easy setup with mobile printing options
Cons:- Limited to a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system, which may require frequent replacements
- Small OLED display might be less intuitive for some users
- No Ethernet connectivity option
Best for: Home users who need a reliable, all-in-one printer with good print quality and mobile support
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume printing or business environments requiring Ethernet or high-volume toner options
- Printer Type:All-in-one inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Display:1.42-inch Monochrome OLED
- Media Size:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Automatic Document Feeder:Yes
- Color:White
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for individuals or families seeking versatile, high-quality printing with straightforward setup.”
HP OfficeJet 5255 Wireless All-in-One Printer
The HP OfficeJet 5255 makes a strong case for budget-conscious households or small offices that prioritize quick Wi-Fi setup and cost-effective printing. Unlike the Canon PIXMA TR7120, it emphasizes speed and ease of use over advanced photo quality, with support for Instant Ink to lower ongoing costs. Its wireless setup is notably fast, often under a minute, and it pairs seamlessly with Alexa for voice commands. However, limited technical details mean I can’t fully gauge its print quality or speed compared to more specialized models. It’s ideal for users who want a straightforward, reliable device for basic document tasks, but it might fall short for those needing premium photo output or detailed specifications.
Pros:- Fast Wi-Fi setup in less than a minute
- Supports Instant Ink for ongoing savings
- Works with Alexa for voice control
- Reliable all-in-one functionality for everyday tasks
Cons:- Limited detailed specifications and performance metrics
- Print quality and speed are not emphasized, which may affect high-volume or photo printing
- No advanced features like duplex scanning or touchscreen
Best for: Small home offices or families wanting a simple, fast, and cost-efficient printer
Not ideal for: Photographers or users requiring high-resolution color prints or detailed scanning features
Our verdict“This model is ideal for those seeking quick, budget-friendly document printing with minimal fuss.”
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan
The Brother DCP-L2640DW offers impressive speed and connectivity tailored for small business or high-volume home office use, outperforming inkjet options like the HP DeskJet 2855e in speed and cost per page. Its laser technology ensures crisp monochrome output, which is ideal for documents but limits creative or color tasks. The 36 ppm print speed and 50-page auto document feeder make it a workhorse, especially for those with frequent multi-page scans or copies. However, the lack of a touchscreen and monochrome-only output could be limitations for users who need color printing or more modern interfaces. Its compact footprint suits small spaces, but toner replacement can be more involved than ink cartridges.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 36 ppm for high-volume tasks
- Multiple connection options including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB
- Auto document feeder simplifies multi-page copying and scanning
- Compact design fits in limited spaces
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, restricting creative uses
- No touchscreen for easy navigation—requires button controls
- Toner replacement may be less straightforward than ink cartridges
Best for: Small businesses, students, or busy home offices needing fast monochrome printing and copying
Not ideal for: Creative users or households requiring color printing, scanning photos, or detailed color documents
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), Ethernet, USB 2.0
- Dimensions:Compact footprint
Our verdict“This printer excels for high-volume black-and-white document work in small business or busy home office settings.”
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2855e is a practical choice for families or students needing simple, affordable printing, scanning, and copying. While it offers wireless connectivity and supports mobile printing, it doesn’t match the print quality or speed of the Canon PIXMA TR7120 or the laser-focused Brother DCP-L2640DW. Its 60-sheet input tray and basic interface suit light, occasional use, but high-volume or high-resolution photo work may be limited by slow speeds and modest print quality. The included 3-month Instant Ink trial adds value, but ongoing costs and slower performance make it less suitable for demanding tasks.
Pros:- Affordable price point with all-in-one features
- Wireless printing from various devices
- Includes 3 months of Instant Ink service
- Compact and easy to set up
Cons:- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks, reducing flexibility
- Print speeds are slow for high-volume tasks
- Print quality may be insufficient for detailed or professional needs
Best for: Students or families with light printing needs and limited space
Not ideal for: High-volume or professional-quality photo printing, or users needing fast speeds
- Print Speed (Color):5.5 ppm
- Print Speed (Black):7.5 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Wireless Capability:2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only
- Includes:3 months Instant Ink trial
Our verdict“This printer is a good fit for casual users seeking basic, low-cost printing and scanning solutions.”
HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless All-in-One Refillable Printer
The HP Smart Tank 5100 offers a remarkable solution for those who prioritize high-volume, low-cost printing, especially of color documents. Its refillable ink tank system, included with up to 3 years of ink, outperforms cartridge-based models like the Canon PIXMA TR7120 in ongoing cost savings and volume capacity. Its wireless features support printing from phones and tablets, and the simple refill process reduces mess and downtime. The flatbed scanner, however, limits scanning speed, and the lack of an automatic document feeder could slow down multi-page tasks. Its maximum copies per run are capped at 99, making it less suited for large batches requiring extensive copying.
Pros:- Cost-effective for high-volume printing with included ink for up to 3 years
- Wireless connectivity supports various devices
- Mess-free, easy refill system
- Low ongoing costs compared to cartridge-based printers
Cons:- Flatbed scanner limits scanning speed and batch processing
- Maximum copies per run limited to 99
- No automatic document feeder for multi-page scanning or copying
Best for: Home users or small offices with high-volume color printing needs and a focus on low running costs
Not ideal for: Users needing high-speed scanning or multi-page copying of large batches
- Printer Type:Thermal Inkjet
- Wireless:Yes
- High-volume printer tank:Yes
- Print from phone or tablet:Yes
- Scan to PDF:Yes
- Maximum Copies Per Run:99
Our verdict“This printer is best for households or small offices seeking affordable, high-volume color printing over the long term.”
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy for Home Use, Black
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 stands out for its cartridge-free design that significantly cuts ongoing costs, especially when compared to traditional inkjet models like the Canon PIXMA TR4720. Its refillable ink tanks mean you can print hundreds of pages without frequent replacements, making it ideal for high-volume households. While it lacks duplex printing and detailed resolution specs, its vivid color output and wireless, voice-activated features add convenience. The main tradeoff is the initial cost and the need for genuine Epson ink to maintain quality. This model is perfect for those prioritizing low running costs and frequent printing without the hassle of cartridge replacements.
Pros:- Cartridge-free design reduces waste and ongoing costs
- High-capacity refillable tanks for fewer interruptions
- Wireless and voice-activated printing for convenience
Cons:- Requires genuine Epson ink for optimal performance
- Limited details on maximum resolution and paper handling
Best for: Families or students with high monthly print volumes seeking low-cost, reliable color printing
Not ideal for: Users needing professional photo quality or duplex printing for large documents
- Printer Type:All-in-One (Print, Scan, Copy)
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Print Speed:10 ISO pages per minute
- Ink System:Refillable EcoTank
- Color:Color
- Maximum Print Resolution:Not specified
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for cost-conscious households that print frequently and value ease of use.”
Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner and Copier – Black
Compared with the ET-2800, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 offers a similar eco-friendly, cartridge-free experience but with a slightly broader feature set, including a built-in scanner and copier suitable for small offices or home use. Its high page yield of up to 4,500 pages per set means fewer refills over time, though setup may be more complex for less tech-savvy users. While it boasts wireless printing and high-resolution output, its print speed is modest, making it less suited for high-volume, fast-paced environments. The lack of duplex printing is a notable omission for those who frequently print double-sided documents. This model is ideal for users needing high-volume printing with versatility and minimal ongoing costs.
Pros:- High page yield with included ink bottles
- Built-in scanner and copier for versatility
- Wireless printing from multiple devices
Cons:- Initial setup can be complex for some users
- Print speed is slower than laser options
Best for: Home offices or families wanting reliable, high-yield printing with scanning and copying functions
Not ideal for: Users who need fast print speeds or professional photo printing
- Printer Type:All-in-One
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Included Ink Yield:Up to 4,500 pages per set
- Scanner:High-resolution flatbed
- Copier:Yes
- Warranty:2 years with registration
Our verdict“This printer suits those seeking a high-capacity, all-in-one solution for moderate-volume printing at home.”
HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier
The HP Smart Tank 5000 offers an appealing blend of affordability and high-volume capacity, especially when compared to smaller inkjet models like the Canon PIXMA TS8820. Its included up to 2 years of ink and easy, mess-free refilling make it a smart choice for busy households. AI-enabled printing adds a layer of precision, ensuring sharp text and vibrant colors. However, its features are geared more toward casual or home use rather than demanding office environments, and detailed specs on print speed are not provided. Its straightforward design and large ink capacity make it a solid pick for those prioritizing low-cost, high-volume printing with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Up to 3 years of ink included for high-volume printing
- Mess-free, easy refill system
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
Cons:- Limited to home or small office use
- Lack of detailed info on print speeds
Best for: Families or individuals who want a reliable, high-volume printer with minimal ongoing costs
Not ideal for: High-speed printing needs or professional photo quality applications
- Functionality:Print, copy, scan
- Ink System:Refillable ink tank
- Included Ink:Up to 3 years
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Print Features:Borderless printing
Our verdict“This model is best for households that need dependable, budget-friendly printing with minimal maintenance.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing and Built-in Fax, Black
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 excels at versatility, offering fax, scanning, copying, and auto document feeding, making it a strong choice for multi-tasking households. Its auto duplex printing and borderless photo options elevate its usability for various tasks, though its slower print speeds, around 8.8 ipm for black and 4.4 ipm for color, may hinder high-volume needs. Compared to the Epson ET-2800, it provides more document-centric features but lacks the same high page yield and cost efficiency. Its reliance on ink cartridges means more frequent replacements, and some features require smart home setup. It’s best for those who need an all-in-one, feature-rich printer for light to moderate printing and document management at home.
Pros:- Includes fax, auto document feeder, and mobile printing
- Auto duplex and borderless photo printing
- Energy Star certified for efficiency
Cons:- Slower print speeds for high-volume tasks
- Frequent ink replacements due to cartridge system
Best for: Home users who need fax, photo printing, and document handling in one device
Not ideal for: High-volume printing or users seeking low-cost ongoing operation
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Print Speed:Approx. 8.8 ipm (Black), 4.4 ipm (Color)
- Borderless Printing:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Paper Capacity:100 sheets
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
- Warranty:1 year limited
Our verdict“Ideal for households needing a multifunction printer with fax and photo options, but less suited for frequent high-volume printing.”
HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer, Scanner, Copier with Up to 3 Years of Ink Included
The HP Smart Tank 6003 surpasses many competitors with its up to 3 years of included ink, making it perfect for families or small offices with heavy printing demands. Its refillable ink tanks are designed for mess-free, straightforward refills, and the AI-enhanced printing ensures consistently sharp, colorful outputs. Compared with the Epson ET-2800, it offers even more ink longevity and a focus on ease of use, though it may lack some advanced features like duplex printing or higher resolution specs. Its ability to handle thousands of pages at a low cost makes it a strong choice for those needing reliable, long-term printing without frequent refills.
Pros:- Up to 3 years of ink included for substantial volume
- Mess-free, simple refill system
- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
Cons:- Designed mainly for home and small office use
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Households or small businesses needing extensive, ongoing print volume with minimal intervention
Not ideal for: High-end photo printing or fast-paced office environments requiring rapid output
- Functionality:Print, copy, scan
- Ink System:Refillable ink tank
- Included Ink:Up to 3 years
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Print Features:Borderless printing
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for those who prioritize long-term, high-volume printing with minimal hassle and ongoing costs.”
Canon PIXMA TS8820 Wireless All-In-One Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS8820 stands out as the most versatile all-in-one for home use, especially if vibrant photo quality is a priority. Unlike the TS4320, it offers a six-color ink system that produces richer, more accurate images, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts. Its wireless connectivity and user-friendly touchscreen simplify setup and everyday use, though frequent ink replacements can become costly with high-volume printing. Compared to the Brother INKvestment 5010, it excels in photo clarity but falls behind in high-volume efficiency and document speed. This model is perfect for users who want professional-grade photos alongside everyday documents but are prepared for higher ink costs. It’s less suited for those who print in bulk regularly or need quick, large-volume outputs.
Pros:- High-resolution photo and document printing with vibrant color accuracy
- Wireless and cloud printing capabilities for convenience
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
Cons:- Frequent ink replacements needed for high-volume printing
- Limited print speed information, which may affect productivity
Best for: Photo hobbyists and small office users who prioritize high-quality images and versatile media handling
Not ideal for: High-volume document printers or users seeking the lowest running costs for frequent printing
- Print Technology:Inkjet
- Color:Color
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Media Sizes:Wide range of paper sizes
- Included Accessories:32GB Card, Cleaning Kit, Printer Cable
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for users who prioritize premium photo quality and versatile media options over high-volume speed or low running costs.”
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers a compelling blend of affordability and simplicity, making it a solid choice for casual home users. Unlike the TS6520, it has a more basic 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that is easier on the budget but results in slightly less vibrant color reproduction. Its straightforward setup and mobile printing options make it accessible for those with minimal technical skills. However, its print size is limited to 8.5” x 11”, and its slower print speeds can be a bottleneck for busy households. This pick makes the most sense for occasional printing, family projects, and casual photo printing, but it might fall short for more demanding or high-quality photo needs.
Pros:- Very affordable for basic printing needs
- Vivid print quality suitable for photos and documents
- Easy setup with mobile and wireless printing options
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to standard 8.5” x 11” media size
- Slower print speeds compared to higher-end models
- Basic features lacking advanced functions
Best for: Families and individuals who need reliable, affordable printing for everyday documents and occasional photos
Not ideal for: High-volume printing or users seeking premium photo quality, as it’s limited in media size and color fidelity
- Printer Type:All-in-one inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Print Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink
- Eco Certifications:EPEAT Silver, ENERGY STAR
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This printer is a solid choice for casual users prioritizing affordability and ease of use over speed and advanced features.”
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 strikes a balance between affordability and features, making it suitable for small households that need quality printing without complexity. Compared with the TS8820, it offers a smaller 1.42” OLED display and a slightly less advanced photo system but compensates with a sleek, space-saving design. Its automatic duplex and mobile printing capabilities make it a convenient choice for everyday chores, though its media size is still limited to 8.5” x 11”. It’s an excellent pick for those who want a compact, stylish printer that can handle a variety of media but don’t need the highest photo resolution or large media formats.
Pros:- Affordable all-in-one with versatile features
- High-quality, vibrant output for photos and documents
- Easy setup and mobile printing options
- Compact and stylish design
Cons:- Limited to 8.5” x 11” media size
- Small OLED display may be less intuitive for some users
Best for: Small households or students needing a stylish, easy-to-use printer for standard media sizes
Not ideal for: High-volume printing or detailed photo projects requiring larger media sizes or richer color accuracy
- Display:1.42” OLED
- Printer Type:Color Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz), Mobile Printing
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Media Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This compact printer is ideal for users who want reliable, quality printing in a small footprint, without high-volume or large-format needs.”
Brother INKvestment 5010 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Automatic Duplex and 2.7” Touchscreen
The Brother INKvestment 5010 is designed for users with larger printing demands, such as small business owners or busy home offices. Its high-yield ink cartridges and 250-sheet paper tray enable significant volume without frequent refills, unlike the TS8820 or TS6520 that are better suited for lighter use. The inclusion of a 2.7” touchscreen and multiple connectivity options—Wi-Fi, Ethernet, cloud—streamlines workflow, though the setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users. Its maximum paper size of 8.5” x 14” is a plus for small business needs, but the large footprint and occasional connectivity issues may pose challenges. It’s the best fit for users who prioritize cost-effective, high-volume output over sleekness or simplicity.
Pros:- High-yield ink cartridges lower running costs
- Automatic duplex printing and copying improve efficiency
- Large paper capacity supports high-volume printing
- Multiple connectivity options including cloud and mobile printing
Cons:- Setup can be complicated for non-technical users
- Large physical size requires significant space
- Some users report occasional connectivity issues
Best for: Small business owners or heavy home users needing high-capacity printing and versatile connectivity
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, smaller printers
- Printer Type:Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Maximum Paper Size:8.5″ x 14″
- Print Speed:up to 28 ppm black / 26 ppm color
Our verdict“This printer is best for small business or demanding home users who need high volume and cost efficiency over compact size or simplicity.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each printer based on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance costs, and value. I prioritized models that balance ease of use with feature sets suitable for typical home environments. Devices with reliable connectivity options, low running costs, and durable build quality ranked higher. The ranking also considers whether a printer offers features that align with common home needs, such as wireless printing, photo quality, or multifunctionality. Cost-effectiveness and overall user experience were key factors in determining the final order.| home printer | Printer Type |
|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Co | All-in-one inkjet |
| HP OfficeJet 5255 Wireless All | — |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | — |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All- | — |
| HP Smart Tank 5100 Wireless Al | Thermal Inkjet |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless | All-in-One (Print, Scan, Copy) |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless | All-in-One |
| HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless Al | — |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | — |
| HP Smart Tank 6003 Wireless Al | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS8820 Wireless Al | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | All-in-one inkjet |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Color Inkjet |
| Brother INKvestment 5010 Wirel | Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Home Printers
Choosing the right home printer involves weighing several important factors beyond just price. Understanding your specific needs—like photo printing, document volume, or space constraints—will guide your decision. Considering ongoing costs such as ink or toner refills helps avoid surprises later. Compatibility with your devices and ease of setup are equally important, especially for those less tech-savvy. This guide covers key considerations to help you make a well-informed choice that balances features, costs, and convenience.Print Technology and Cost Efficiency
Laser printers are typically faster and cheaper to operate for high-volume document printing, especially monochrome models. Inkjet printers excel in color accuracy and photo quality but often have higher per-page costs. Refillable ink tank models like Epson EcoTank can dramatically reduce ongoing expenses, making them ideal for frequent printing. However, they generally require a larger initial investment. Evaluating your expected print volume and color needs will help determine the most cost-effective technology for your home.
Multifunctionality and Space
If you need a device for scanning, copying, and printing, a multifunction printer makes sense. These models save space and money compared to buying separate devices. But be aware that multifunction printers can be more complex to operate and may have a steeper learning curve. For smaller spaces or light use, a dedicated printer might be simpler and more straightforward. Consider your space constraints and whether you need additional features like a document feeder or fax capabilities.
Connectivity and Usability
Wireless connectivity—via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile apps—makes printing from multiple devices more convenient. Look for models with easy setup and reliable connections to prevent frustration. Touchscreens and intuitive controls enhance usability, especially for less tech-savvy users. Some printers also support cloud printing or voice commands, adding extra flexibility. Prioritize models that fit your existing device ecosystem for seamless operation.
Print Quality and Speed
Photo printing quality varies significantly between models, with some designed explicitly for vibrant color and detail. If photos are a priority, look for printers with high resolution and dedicated photo paper support. For everyday documents, speed and text clarity matter more; laser printers generally outperform inkjets here. Keep in mind that faster printers tend to be more expensive and may produce louder operation noise. Match your needs with the right balance of speed and quality.
Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Expenses
Low-cost printers can be tempting, but consider the ongoing costs of ink or toner. Inkjet models often require frequent ink replacements, which can add up. Refillable tanks or bulk ink options can reduce these expenses but come with higher upfront costs. Laser printers, while more expensive initially, tend to have lower per-page costs for monochrome printing. Weigh the initial investment against your expected usage to avoid overspending on features you won’t utilize.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between an inkjet and a laser printer for home use?
Choosing between inkjet and laser printers depends on your primary printing needs. Inkjet printers are better suited for photo printing and color-rich documents, offering higher resolution and vibrant images. Laser printers excel at fast, high-volume black-and-white printing, often with lower per-page costs. If you print infrequently or mainly produce color photos, an inkjet makes sense. For regular printing of text-heavy documents, a laser model provides speed and efficiency, making it a better long-term choice.
Are refillable ink tank printers worth the extra initial cost?
Refillable ink tank printers often cost more upfront but save money over time through lower ink expenses. They are ideal for households that print frequently, as their large ink reservoirs reduce the need for constant replacements. If your printing volume is moderate or low, the higher initial investment might not pay off quickly. Consider your typical usage and whether the long-term savings justify the upfront expense for your specific situation.
Can I use third-party ink or toner with these printers?
Many home printers are compatible with third-party ink or toner, which can lower costs significantly. However, using non-original supplies may affect print quality or void your warranty, especially with certain brands. Always verify compatibility before purchasing third-party ink, and be aware that some manufacturers implement security features to detect non-genuine supplies. Weigh the potential savings against possible risks to your printer’s longevity and performance.
What features should I prioritize if I want a simple, easy-to-use home printer?
For straightforward, hassle-free printing, prioritize models with intuitive touchscreens, simple wireless setup, and reliable connectivity options. Look for printers with automatic document feeders if you often scan multiple pages, and consider models with straightforward ink or toner replacement processes. If you’re less comfortable with technology, choosing a device with clear instructions and minimal maintenance requirements will make your experience more enjoyable and less frustrating.
How important is print speed for home use?
Print speed becomes a more significant factor if you regularly print large volumes of documents. For occasional printing, speed is less critical; a slower printer might still meet your needs without issue. Faster printers tend to be more costly and can produce more noise, which might be disruptive in a quiet home setting. Ultimately, balance your volume expectations with your budget to find a printer that offers adequate speed without overspending.
Conclusion
The best overall home printer for most users is the Canon PIXMA TR7120, thanks to its well-rounded feature set and reliable performance. Those seeking the best value might lean toward models like the HP DeskJet 2855e for affordability, while households with frequent printing needs should consider the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 for long-term savings. Beginners or tech-averse users will benefit from the simplicity of models like the Brother INKvestment 5010. For users with high-quality photo needs, dedicated photo printers like the Canon PIXMA TS8820 are more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific printing volume, space, and feature priorities.
