6 Best Printers for Cheap Ink in 2025 – Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

If you want to save money on ink without losing quality, consider printers like the Brother INKvestment 1365 or HP Smart Tank 5000—they have refillable tanks and high-yield cartridges to cut costs.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e offers fast duplex printing and large paper capacity for heavy use.

Compact models like the HP DeskJet 2827e fit small spaces while staying budget-friendly.

Keep going to discover which printer perfectly suits your needs and budget.

Brother INKvestment 1365 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer (MFC-J1365DW)

Experience efficient printing that balances quality and cost with the Brother INKvestment 1365 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer. Designed to reduce frequent ink replacements, it comes with high-yield cartridges that print up to 1,200 pages in black and 500 pages per color. This means fewer interruptions and smoother workflow for your everyday tasks.

The printer’s automatic duplex printing simplifies double-sided document creation, saving paper without extra effort. Wireless connectivity lets you print from multiple devices anywhere in your home or office. Managing print jobs remotely is straightforward through the Brother Mobile Connect app, adding to its convenience.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the INKvestment tank system, which holds more ink inside the printer and cuts down on cartridge waste. A modest 150-sheet paper tray fits typical home or small office use, though it may require refilling during heavy printing days. The compact design with a 1.8-inch color display keeps controls accessible without taking up much space.

This all-in-one model also scans and copies with ease, making it versatile for various document needs. The included two-month free trial of Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription ensures your ink supply stays consistent and affordable, helping you avoid unexpected shortages.

Best for: Home users and small offices seeking an affordable, wireless all-in-one printer with efficient ink management and mobile printing options.

What We Like:

• High-yield cartridges reduce ink replacement frequency.
• Automatic duplex printing saves time and paper.
• Wireless printing and remote management via mobile app.
• INKvestment system lowers ink costs and waste.
• Easy scanning and copying functions.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Brother
Dimensions (W×D×H)	Approx. 16.7 × 14.7 × 7.2 in (42.4 × 37.3 × 18.3 cm)
Weight	Approx. 11.2 lb (5.1 kg)
Color Options	White
Display	1.8-inch color LCD
Paper Tray Capacity	150 sheets

Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer (MFC-J1360DW)

Discover the Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer, designed to streamline your home or small office tasks. This compact device effortlessly handles printing, copying, and scanning, delivering crisp, vibrant color documents that enhance your presentations. Its space-saving design fits neatly on any desk without sacrificing functionality.

Say goodbye to manual page flipping with automatic duplex printing, enabling double-sided printing that saves paper and time. The 20-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) further boosts your efficiency by managing multi-page tasks without constant supervision. Wireless and USB connectivity options make printing from various devices straightforward and flexible.

Maintenance is simple with the Brother Mobile Connect app, which helps you monitor ink levels and manage print jobs remotely. The included ink refresh subscription trial offers a cost-effective way to keep consumables stocked, helping you avoid unexpected ink shortages and reduce running costs.

While print speeds reach up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color, this printer focuses on quality and versatility over raw speed. Its 1.8-inch color display provides clear navigation, though some users may find it a bit compact. Overall, this printer balances productivity and convenience, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Best for: individuals and small home offices seeking an affordable, compact all-in-one printer with wireless connectivity and efficient ink management.

What We Like:

• Automatic duplex printing and 20-sheet ADF enhance workflow efficiency.
• Wireless and USB connectivity with cloud app support for versatile printing.
• Brother Mobile Connect app enables simple device control and ink monitoring.
• Compact design fits easily in limited spaces without compromising function.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Brother
Dimensions (W x D x H)	Approx. 15.7 x 14.7 x 7.6 in
Weight	Approx. 14.6 lbs (6.6 kg)
Color Options	White
Connectivity	Wireless, USB
Display	1.8-inch color LCD

HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer (6W7F5A)

The HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer is designed to simplify your everyday printing tasks. Whether you’re printing letters, recipes, or important documents, it delivers clear, well-formatted pages without unnecessary waste. Its wireless capability lets you print or scan directly from your phone or tablet using the HP app, making it a convenient addition to any home.

This printer features moderate print speeds of up to 7.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color, which suits typical home use rather than heavy workloads. Its compact, eco-friendly design fits neatly into small spaces, using recycled plastics and energy-efficient technology to reduce environmental impact.

Maintenance is straightforward with a 60-sheet input tray that keeps your print area tidy, though it may require refilling for larger jobs. The printer uses HP cartridges with embedded chips to maintain print quality, which can limit cartridge choices but ensures consistent results. Plus, it comes with three months of HP Instant Ink, helping you save on ink expenses and avoid unexpected shortages.

Overall, this all-in-one printer combines functionality and convenience for home users who want reliable wireless printing, scanning, and copying with easy maintenance and environmental consideration.

Best for: Individuals and families needing an affordable, compact all-in-one printer for everyday home printing and scanning tasks.

What We Like:

• Wireless printing and scanning via HP app for mobile convenience
• Includes 3 months of HP Instant Ink subscription to reduce ink costs
• Compact design with eco-friendly materials and energy efficiency
• Clear, formatted prints with HP AI technology to minimize waste

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	HP
Dimensions	Compact size (exact dimensions not provided)
Weight	Lightweight (exact weight not provided)
Material	Recycled plastic components
Color Options	Standard color finish

HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer (405T6A)

Discover a printer that fits perfectly in your home office without the hassle of costly ink replacements. The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer streamlines your daily tasks by combining printing, scanning, and copying into one efficient device. Its wireless connectivity and duplex printing save time and effort on every job.

This printer handles up to 225 sheets, reducing interruptions during busy workdays. The auto document feeder supports multi-page scanning and copying, making document management simpler. With a 2.7-inch touchscreen and the HP app, you can control print jobs remotely from your smartphone or tablet.

Designed with sustainability in mind, over 45% of the printer’s plastic components are recycled materials. Security is also a priority, thanks to HP Wolf Essential Security that protects your device and data. The use of affordable HP 923 series ink cartridges maintains print quality while helping control running costs.

Maintenance is straightforward, but note the printer supports standard paper sizes up to 8.5 x 11.7 inches and has a moderate 60-sheet output tray. It requires genuine HP ink cartridges, which may limit third-party ink use but ensures consistent performance.

Best for: Small home offices and remote workers needing a reliable, wireless all-in-one printer with strong color and black-and-white print quality.

What We Like:

• Efficient duplex printing and large 225-sheet input tray minimize workflow interruptions.
• Easy wireless setup with dual-band Wi-Fi and a user-friendly touchscreen.
• Remote print management via the HP app enhances convenience.
• Sustainability focus with over 45% recycled plastic components.
• Enhanced security with HP Wolf Essential Security safeguards data.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	HP
Model	OfficeJet Pro 8125e
Dimensions (W×D×H)	Approx. 17.3 × 14.5 × 8.5 in
Weight	Approx. 18.7 lb (8.5 kg)
Paper Capacity	225-sheet input, 60-sheet output
Supported Media Size	Up to 8.5 × 11.7 inches
Connectivity	Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wireless
Display	2.7-inch color touchscreen
Ink Cartridge Series	HP 923 series

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

Experience hassle-free, high-volume printing with the HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer (5D1B6A). Designed to keep up with busy households, this cartridge-free printer uses a refillable ink system, eliminating the frequent need for replacements. Its mess-free refill process and included two years of Original HP Ink allow you to print up to 6,000 pages, saving you time and money.

Beyond just printing, this all-in-one device handles scanning, copying, and faxing with sharp text and vibrant photo quality. Wireless connectivity ensures you can print effortlessly from multiple devices, while the HP Smart App and AI technology help you avoid waste and maintain precision in every print job.

The printer’s compact design and straightforward setup make it ideal for home environments. Its reliable performance supports families and users who require consistent color document printing without the complexity or cost of traditional cartridge systems.

While the print speeds are moderate, reaching up to 10 pages per minute in black and 5 in color, this model focuses on efficiency and quality rather than high-speed office throughput. It may not have advanced features like duplex scanning or a large touchscreen, but it excels in user-friendliness and maintenance simplicity.

Best for: Families and home users needing a cost-effective, wireless all-in-one printer for frequent color printing and easy upkeep.

What We Like:

• Cartridge-free refill system with two years of included ink.
• All-in-one functions: print, scan, copy, and fax.
• Wireless printing with self-healing Wi-Fi and HP Smart App integration.
• Easy, mess-free ink refills.
• Compact design suitable for home use.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	HP
Dimensions (W×D×H)	Approx. 16.9 × 14.3 × 9.9 in
Weight	Approx. 11.4 lb (5.17 kg)
Color Options	White with black accents
Connectivity	Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB

Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer

The Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One printer is designed to simplify your printing tasks with compact efficiency. It fits neatly in small spaces, making it ideal for home or small office use. This printer combines printing, scanning, and copying functions with wireless connectivity, so you can easily print from your smartphone or tablet without hassle.

Its user-friendly design helps reduce clutter and keeps your workspace organized. The MG3620 supports automatic two-sided printing, helping you save paper and reduce waste. A 100-sheet paper tray means fewer interruptions, allowing you to focus on your work with minimal maintenance.

Managing ink is straightforward thanks to Alexa integration. The printer notifies you when ink is low and can reorder supplies automatically, so you never run out. This feature works without any subscription, helping you control costs and avoid last-minute trips for cartridges.

While the MG3620 offers moderate print speeds and inkjet technology, it may not suit high-volume printing needs. However, for everyday documents and photos, it provides reliable quality. Its ENERGY STAR certification also ensures energy efficiency during use.

Best for: Individuals or small office users seeking a compact, wireless all-in-one printer with mobile printing and automatic ink reordering.

What We Like:

• Wireless connectivity for easy mobile and tablet printing
• Alexa integration for low ink alerts and automatic reordering without subscription
• Automatic two-sided printing saves paper and boosts efficiency
• 100-sheet capacity reduces frequent paper refills
• ENERGY STAR certified for energy-efficient operation

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Canon
Dimensions (W×D×H)	Approximately 17.7 × 12 × 5.7 inches (45 × 30.5 × 14.5 cm)
Weight	About 8.5 lbs (3.85 kg)
Printer Type	Wireless All-in-One Inkjet
Paper Capacity	100 sheets
Connectivity	Wireless (Wi-Fi)
Print Speed	Up to 9.9 ppm (black), 5.7 ppm (color)
Special Features	Auto two-sided printing, Alexa integration, ENERGY STAR certified

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printer for Cheap Ink

When picking a printer for cheap ink, you’ll want to focus on ink efficiency and cartridge cost to keep expenses low. Consider if the printer offers ink subscription options that can save you money over time.

Also, check its print volume capacity and features like duplex printing to match your needs without wasting ink.

Ink Efficiency

Because ink efficiency directly impacts your printing costs, choosing a printer that maximizes the number of pages per cartridge is essential. Look for models with high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tanks—they stretch your ink further and cut ongoing expenses. Printers that support individual color cartridges let you replace only the colors you need, saving you money when one runs out.

Automated duplex printing reduces ink usage by printing on both sides of the paper, helping you save ink overall. Also, consider printers with ink management tools like page gauges or subscription services; these optimize your ink use and prevent wasteful over-inking.

Focusing on these features ensures you get the most out of every cartridge, keeping your printing affordable without sacrificing quality.

Cartridge Cost

How much you spend on ink cartridges can make or break your budget for printing. Cartridge costs vary widely, so choosing a printer with high-yield cartridges is smart—they print more pages per cartridge, lowering your cost per page. Don’t be fooled by cheap cartridges upfront; frequent replacements can add up quickly.

Some printers let you use refillable ink tanks, which can drastically cut ongoing expenses without sacrificing print quality. While third-party or remanufactured cartridges might seem cheaper, they can affect print quality and might void your warranty.

To save money, focus on printers that balance cartridge cost with reliability and ink efficiency, ensuring you get the best value without constant costly refills or compromised prints.

Ink Subscription Options

Considering cartridge costs alone might not give you the full picture of saving on ink. Ink subscription options can notably lower your expenses by offering up to 50% savings compared to buying cartridges individually. These services automatically deliver ink before you run out, so you won’t face printing delays.

Plus, they often include page rollover, letting you carry unused pages into future billing cycles, maximizing the value you get. Many subscriptions come with built-in ink monitoring tools, like Page Gauges, helping you track usage and plan replacements easily.

Beyond savings, subscriptions simplify budgeting by turning unpredictable cartridge purchases into predictable, regular expenses. When choosing a printer, look for models compatible with reliable ink subscription services to enjoy continuous, affordable ink supply without hassle.

Print Volume Capacity

What print volume can your printer handle before ink costs start to accumulate? Choosing a printer with a high print volume capacity means you’ll print more pages between ink replacements, cutting downtime and expenses.

Look for models with large paper trays and automatic document feeders to manage higher daily workloads smoothly. Check the printer’s duty cycle—the maximum recommended pages per month—to ensure it matches your needs.

Opt for printers that support high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tanks; these options keep your cost per page low even during heavy use. Also, consider printers compatible with refillable or subscription-based ink systems, as these can further reduce your printing costs when you print frequently.

Prioritizing print volume capacity helps you save money without sacrificing quality.

Duplex Printing Feature

Since ink costs can add up quickly, choosing a printer with duplex printing can help you save money by automatically printing on both sides of the paper. This feature reduces paper usage, cutting your expenses while minimizing waste. Not only does duplex printing lower paper costs, but it also helps decrease the amount of ink you use, making your consumables last longer.

Plus, printers with duplex capabilities often print double-sided documents faster, saving you time. However, not every printer offers this feature, so you’ll want to confirm that duplex printing is included before making a purchase. Opting for a duplex printer is a smart move if you want to balance affordability with eco-friendliness and efficient printing.

Compatible Ink Brands

Beyond features like duplex printing, the type of ink you use plays a big role in keeping printing costs low. Choosing compatible ink brands can substantially cut expenses, but you should verify their official certification to ensure quality and avoid damaging your printer. While third-party or generic cartridges are cheaper, they might reduce print quality and could void your warranty.

Look for refillable or remanufactured cartridges from reputable brands, as they offer long-term savings. Always check your printer manufacturer’s list of approved ink brands to confirm compatibility. Since availability varies by region, picking widely accessible brands helps you find replacements easily and at better prices.

Mobile Printing Support

How easily can you print from your smartphone or tablet? When choosing a printer for cheap ink, mobile printing support is vital. Make certain your printer supports standards like AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or Wi-Fi Direct for quick wireless access.

Check if it has a dedicated mobile app that lets you print, scan, and manage the device directly from your phone or tablet. Also, confirm compatibility with your device’s operating system, whether iOS or Android, to avoid any glitches.

Printers that allow cloud printing let you print from anywhere with internet access, adding flexibility. Finally, make certain the printer connects directly to your mobile device without complicated setup or extra hardware, making your mobile printing experience smooth and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Printer Warranties Typically Handle Ink-Related Issues?

Printer warranties usually don’t cover ink-related issues like cartridge depletion or clogging.

You’ll need to buy replacements yourself, but some brands offer extended ink protection plans or discounts if you register your printer promptly.

Can Third-Party Ink Cartridges Damage My Printer?

Think of third-party ink like a mystery ingredient in a recipe—it can sometimes spoil your dish. Yes, it can damage your printer by clogging nozzles or causing leaks.

What Environmental Impact Do Cheap Ink Cartridges Have?

Cheap ink cartridges often use lower-quality materials and packaging, which can increase waste and pollution. You should recycle them properly to reduce environmental harm and consider eco-friendly options to minimize your carbon footprint.

Are Ink Subscription Services Cost-Effective Long-Term?

Yes, ink subscription services can be cost-effective long-term if you print regularly. They often save you money with discounted ink and convenience.

However, if you print infrequently, you might end up paying for unused cartridges.

How Often Should I Clean My Printer to Maintain Ink Quality?

You should clean your printer every few weeks or after heavy use to maintain ink quality. Regular cleaning guarantees clogs and ensures vibrant prints, so don’t skip routine maintenance to keep your printer running smoothly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right printer isn’t just about the upfront cost—it’s about embracing a smarter way to keep your ink expenses in check without skimping on quality.

With these options, you’re not just buying a device; you’re investing in peace of mind and long-term savings.

So, don’t let high ink prices quietly drain your budget—make a choice that quietly works for you, keeping your printing smooth and your wallet happy.