5 Best Printers for Continuous Ink Systems in 2025 – Reliable and Cost-Effective Choices

If you need reliable, cost-effective continuous ink system printers in 2025, consider the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, which offers high-volume printing and wireless convenience.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8139e delivers fast, sharp color prints with a large input tray.

The Smart Tank 5000 balances affordability and versatility.

The DeskJet 4227e suits compact home spaces with eco-friendly features.

Epson’s EcoTank ET-2800 slashes ink costs with its supertank design.

Discover what makes these models stand out.

HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer (7XV38A)

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer offers a high-capacity printing solution designed for efficiency. It prints up to 11 black and 5 color pages per minute, suitable for everyday home use. The printer comes with enough ink to produce up to 8,000 color or 6,000 black pages, reducing the need for frequent refills.

This model features a 35-page automatic document feeder, making multi-page scanning and copying easier. It supports wireless and mobile printing, including Alexa voice commands, providing versatile connectivity options. Setup is straightforward with its user-friendly app and reliable Wi-Fi connection.

Best for: Families or home users who require high-volume, cost-efficient printing with versatile wireless and mobile functionality.

Pros:

• Comes with two years’ worth of ink, minimizing frequent replacements.
• 35-page automatic feeder enhances multi-page task efficiency.
• Supports wireless, mobile, and voice-activated printing for convenience.

Cons:

• Print speeds may be slower compared to some laser printers.
• The automatic feeder and ink tank system might increase the printer’s footprint.
• Faxing features may be less utilized by modern home users.

HP OfficeJet Pro 8139e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer (40Q51A)

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8139e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer offers professional-quality color printing suitable for home offices. It provides fast print speeds up to 10 ppm in color and 20 ppm in black. This model supports scanning, copying, faxing, and automatic duplex printing for versatile use.

Its 225-sheet input tray reduces the need for frequent refills, while dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a stable wireless connection. The HP app allows easy printing and scanning directly from smartphones. A 1-year Instant Ink trial helps manage ink efficiently, reducing unexpected interruptions.

Best for: Home office users needing a reliable, multi-functional color printer with seamless wireless connectivity.

Pros:

• Fast print speeds up to 10 ppm color and 20 ppm black.
• Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection troubleshooting.
• Includes 1-year Instant Ink trial for convenient ink management.

Cons:

• Ink costs may be higher over time compared to laser printers.
• 225-sheet input tray might be limiting for very high-volume printing.
• Fax function may be less useful in modern digital workflows.

HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer (5D1B6A)

The HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer is designed for high-volume printing with ease. It handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing while delivering clear text and vibrant colors. The cartridge-free refill system offers up to 6,000 pages from the included ink, reducing maintenance and mess.

Wireless connectivity includes self-healing Wi-Fi, ensuring reliable connections. You can also print directly from your smartphone using the HP app. Its compact design fits comfortably in most home office environments, making it a practical choice for everyday tasks.

Best for: Home offices or individuals needing affordable, versatile all-in-one printing with wireless convenience.

Pros:

• Prints up to 6,000 pages with included ink, minimizing frequent refills
• Cartridge-free refill system reduces spills and simplifies upkeep
• Wireless printing with self-healing Wi-Fi and mobile app support

Cons:

• Print speeds of up to 10 ppm black and 5 ppm color might be slower for very large jobs
• Some users may encounter occasional operational limitations
• Warranty support details may require contacting customer service for assistance

HP DeskJet 4227e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer (6W7F0A)

The HP DeskJet 4227e Wireless All-in-One printer delivers reliable printing, scanning, and copying for home use. Its compact design fits easily into any space, while wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and the HP app allows printing and scanning from multiple devices.

Equipped with HP AI technology, this all-in-one printer produces clean, well-formatted documents. It offers print speeds of 5.5 ppm in color and 8.5 ppm in black, along with a 60-sheet input tray and an automatic document feeder for added convenience.

This model includes a 3-month Instant Ink subscription with HP+, ensuring ink is replenished before it runs out. It is ENERGY STAR certified and made with recycled plastic, supporting eco-friendly printing.

Best for: Home users needing a compact, wireless all-in-one printer with smart features for everyday tasks.

Pros:

• Incorporates HP AI for clean, formatted prints
• Comes with a 3-month Instant Ink subscription via HP+
• ENERGY STAR certified and built with recycled materials

Cons:

• Operates only with HP cartridges, blocking non-HP options
• Print speeds are moderate at 5.5 ppm (color) and 8.5 ppm (black)
• Input tray capacity might be limited with just 60 sheets

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a wireless color all-in-one printer designed for efficiency and quality. Its cartridge-free supertank system uses EcoFit ink bottles, which helps cut ink costs by up to 90%. This printer delivers sharp text and vivid colors with Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology and a print resolution up to 5760 x 1440 DPI.

It supports fast printing and includes a high-resolution flatbed scanner for detailed scans and copies. The ET-2800 prints at up to 10 pages per minute, making it suitable for light to moderate use. Its eco-friendly design reduces cartridge waste, aligning with sustainable printing practices.

Best for: Small offices or individuals who need an affordable, wireless all-in-one printer with low ink replacement costs and a focus on eco-friendliness.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free supertank system reduces ink expenses significantly.
• High-resolution printing ensures clear and vibrant output.
• Combines printing, scanning, and copying in one compact unit.
• Eco-friendly design minimizes cartridge waste.

Cons:

• Recommended monthly print volume of 125 pages may limit heavy users.
• Copy speed of 10 ppm might be slower than some alternatives.
• Only available in white, which may not suit all preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printer for Continuous Ink System

When choosing a printer for a continuous ink system, you’ll want to focus on ink efficiency and print quality to get the best results. Make sure the printer offers the right connectivity options and is easy to maintain. Don’t forget to compare costs and warranty coverage to protect your investment.

Ink Efficiency and Capacity

Ink efficiency and capacity play an essential role in choosing the right printer for a continuous ink system. With refillable ink tanks, you can print thousands of pages—up to 8,000 in color or 6,000 in black and white—without worrying about frequent replacements. This not only cuts printing costs dramatically but also reduces waste by eliminating traditional cartridges.

You’ll find that many models offer high-capacity ink bottles and easy-access refills, making it simple to top off ink without mess or hassle. Plus, these systems can save you up to 90% on ink costs compared to cartridge printers. With print speeds ranging from 5 to 20 pages per minute, you get efficient, high-volume printing that keeps up with your demands.

Print Quality and Resolution

Print quality plays an essential role in choosing a continuous ink system printer, especially if you want sharp text and vibrant images. You should look for printers with high maximum print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), since higher DPI means crisper details. Continuous ink systems often offer a wider color gamut, so your prints come out more vivid and true to life.

The print technology matters too—Micro Piezo or thermal inkjet can impact text sharpness and color accuracy. To keep your prints consistently excellent, regular maintenance of print heads is vital to prevent clogging. If you print in large volumes, choose a printer that maintains high-quality output across many pages, ensuring professional results every time.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Because seamless connectivity enhances your printing experience, choosing a continuous ink system printer with reliable wireless options like dual-band Wi-Fi is essential. This guarantees smooth printing from multiple devices without interruptions. You’ll want a printer that supports mobile printing through dedicated apps, allowing you to print directly from smartphones or tablets with ease.

Make sure the printer is compatible with various operating systems—including Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms—to avoid integration issues. Look for automatic troubleshooting features that resolve connectivity problems quickly without needing your input. Additionally, prioritize printers with strong security measures like encryption and password protection to keep your wireless transmissions secure.

These factors combined assure a hassle-free and safe printing experience every time you hit print.

Maintenance and Ease of Use

When choosing a printer with a continuous ink system, you’ll want one that simplifies maintenance and daily use. Look for models with easy-access refill ports to minimize mess during ink replacement. Many printers let you print thousands of pages before needing a refill, saving you time and hassle.

Automated maintenance features like self-cleaning and low ink alerts keep your printer running smoothly without constant monitoring. Regular software updates and app integration also enhance usability by allowing remote ink level checks and convenient printing from multiple devices.

Cost and Warranty Options

Cost plays an essential role in choosing a printer with a continuous ink system, as you’ll want to balance the initial investment against long-term savings on ink. Some models let you print thousands of pages at a much lower cost per page, making them economical over time. You should also check warranty options—extended warranties offer peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repair costs.

Printers that include a generous supply of ink upfront add value and reduce your early expenses. Don’t forget to evaluate the price and availability of replacement ink bottles to keep ongoing costs manageable. Finally, consider the manufacturer’s reputation for customer support and warranty service, as reliable assistance can save you hassle and expenses in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Continuous Ink Systems Affect Printer Warranty Coverage?

Installing a continuous ink system usually voids your printer’s warranty because manufacturers see it as a modification. They argue it might cause damage or malfunction, so they won’t cover repairs or replacements under warranty.

If you want to keep your warranty valid, you’ll need to avoid using third-party ink systems or install them carefully, knowing the risks. Always check your printer’s warranty terms before making the switch.

Can Continuous Ink Systems Be Used With Photo Printers?

Imagine you’re a photographer using an Epson SureColor for vibrant prints. Yes, you can use continuous ink systems with photo printers, but it’s tricky. These systems aren’t always designed for high-quality photo ink, so colors might not be as accurate.

If you want to save on ink costs, make sure the CIS is compatible with your printer model and photo inks. Otherwise, your prints could lose that sharp, professional look.

What Maintenance Is Required for Continuous Ink Systems?

You’ll need to regularly check ink levels and refill the tanks to avoid running dry. Clean the print heads often to prevent clogs and maintain print quality. Make sure the tubing is free of air bubbles, and keep the ink reservoirs sealed properly to avoid contamination.

Occasionally, run printer maintenance cycles and store the printer in a dust-free environment. Staying on top of these tasks helps your continuous ink system work smoothly and last longer.

Are Continuous Ink Systems Compatible With Mac and Windows?

Absolutely, continuous ink systems are wildly compatible with both Mac and Windows! You won’t face any major roadblocks since these systems connect through your printer, which works seamlessly with either operating system.

Just install the right printer drivers for your OS, and you’re good to go. You’ll barely notice any difference in functionality, and your printing experience will stay smooth whether you’re on Mac or Windows.

How Do Continuous Ink Systems Impact Print Speed?

Continuous ink systems usually don’t slow down your print speed considerably. You’ll find that most printers maintain their normal printing pace because the ink delivery is steady and efficient.

However, if the system isn’t set up properly or if the ink flow is interrupted, you might notice occasional delays or print quality issues. So, make sure you install and maintain the system correctly to keep your printing fast and smooth.

Conclusion

Choosing the right printer for your continuous ink system is like finding the perfect dance partner—it needs to move smoothly with your needs and budget. Whether you prioritize cost-effectiveness, reliability, or wireless convenience, these top picks have you covered.

By focusing on features that matter most, you’ll enjoy hassle-free printing without breaking the bank. So go ahead, pick the one that feels just right, and watch your printing flow effortlessly.