Best Printer for College Students in 2024

As a college student, you'll likely need a printer to handle your academic workload. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. A printer that's perfect for one person may not be the best fit for another. In this article, we will help you find the best printer for college students.

When it comes to printers, there are several factors to consider. First, you'll want to decide between an inkjet or laser printer. Inkjet printers are more affordable and better suited for printing photos and color documents. Laser printers, on the other hand, are faster and more cost-effective for printing large volumes of black and white documents.

Another critical factor to consider is the printer's size and weight. As a college student, you'll want a printer that is compact and easy to transport. You may also want to consider a printer that has wireless capabilities, allowing you to print from your laptop or smartphone.

When choosing the best printer for college students, it's also essential to consider the cost of replacement ink or toner cartridges. Some printers have a higher cost per page than others, which can add up quickly over time.

In this article, we will review and compare some of the best printers for college students on the market. We will consider factors such as print quality, speed, size, and cost per page to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need a printer for printing essays, lab reports, or photos, we've got you covered.

Best Printers for College Students

As a college student, having a reliable printer is essential for completing assignments, printing lecture notes, and submitting papers. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the best printers for college students. These printers are affordable, compact, and offer high-quality printing, scanning, and copying features. Whether you're a business major or an art student, there's a printer on this list that will meet your needs.

HP DeskJet 2755e Wireless Color inkjet-printer

If you're a college student looking for a basic printer that can print color documents like recipes and forms, the HP DeskJet 2755e is a great option to consider.

Pros

• With print speeds of up to 7.5 pages per minute in black and 5.5 pages per minute in color, you won't have to wait long for your documents to print.
• The printer includes mobile and wireless printing capabilities, making it easy to print from your phone or other devices.
• The HP+ Smart Printing System is included for free, providing you with advanced features for mobile printing, security, automatic updates, and more.

Cons

• The printer is intended to work only with cartridges that have original HP chips or circuitry, which may limit your cartridge options.
• Some users have reported difficulty connecting the printer to their computer or internet.
• The HP Smart App may not be as user-friendly as other printing apps.

If you're looking for a simple, affordable printer that can handle basic color printing needs, the HP DeskJet 2755e is a solid choice. With its mobile and wireless printing capabilities and included HP+ Smart Printing System, you can easily print from anywhere and enjoy advanced features without any additional cost. However, be aware that the printer may not work with non-HP cartridges and some users have reported connectivity issues.

Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer

If you're a college student looking for a compact and economical printer, the Brother MFC-J1010DW is a good option to consider.

Pros

• The printer is compact and perfect for small spaces and budgets.
• It delivers full functionality plus fast print and scan speeds.
• The Brother Mobile Connect App makes it easy to print, copy, scan, and manage the printer from your mobile device.

Cons

• The automatic document feeder can only handle up to 20 pages.
• The 150-sheet capacity adjustable paper tray may require frequent refills.
• Some users have reported difficulty with software setup installation.

This printer is a great option for college students who need a reliable printer for basic printing, scanning, and copying needs. Its compact size makes it easy to fit into small dorm rooms or apartments, and its full functionality ensures that you won't have to sacrifice features for size. The Brother Mobile Connect App is a convenient feature that allows you to manage your printer from your mobile device, making it easy to print from anywhere on campus.

The automatic document feeder and adjustable paper tray are both useful features, but may not be sufficient for heavy-duty printing needs. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with software setup installation, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before attempting to set up the printer.

Overall, the Brother MFC-J1010DW is a solid choice for college students who need a reliable and affordable printer for basic printing, scanning, and copying needs.

HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle your college assignments and small business needs, the HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer is a great option.

Pros

• Print professional-quality color documents like forms, reports, brochures, and presentations.
• Fast color print, copy and scan, plus 2-sided printing, mobile and wireless printing, and an auto document feeder.
• Self-healing Wi-FiTM automatically detects and resolves connection issues.

Cons

• Printing takes a while.
• The paper tray takes some getting used to.
• The ink is not really free.

This printer is packed with features that will help you be more productive. You can print up to 18 pages per minute in black and 10 pages per minute in color, and the auto document feeder makes it easy to scan and copy multiple pages. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensures that you have a stable connection, and the optional HP+ Smart Printing System keeps the printer up to date, secure, and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time—at no additional cost.

While the printer is easy to use, some users have reported that printing takes a while, and the paper tray takes some getting used to. Additionally, while the printer comes with 6 months of free ink, the ink is not really free, and users are asked for a credit card to enroll in the HP Instant Ink program.

Overall, the HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer is a solid choice for college students and small business owners who need a reliable and feature-packed printer.

HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

If you are a college student looking for a printer that can handle all your printing needs, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is a great choice.

Pros

• With fast color print, copy, scan and fax, plus 2-sided printing, mobile and wireless printing, and an auto document feeder, this printer is perfect for small businesses and home offices.
• The optional HP+ Smart Printing System keeps the printer up to date, secure, and ready to print from virtually anywhere at any time—at no additional cost.
• The printer includes 6 months free subscription for Instant Ink delivery service with HP+ activation. Ink ships automatically so you never run out.

Cons

• This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry.
• The LED reading screen doesn't tilt enough to make it convenient to read and the size of it should be larger making it truly easy to read.
• The printer uses a lot of ink and once rejected an HP Cartridge which was very frustrating because the ink is not cheap.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is a great all-in-one printer for college students. It is fast, efficient, and includes many features that make it perfect for small businesses and home offices. The optional HP+ Smart Printing System ensures that the printer stays up to date and secure, while the 6 months free subscription for Instant Ink delivery service with HP+ activation ensures that you never run out of ink.

However, it is worth noting that this printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry. Additionally, the LED reading screen doesn't tilt enough to make it convenient to read and the size of it should be larger making it truly easy to read. Finally, the printer uses a lot of ink and once rejected an HP Cartridge which was very frustrating because the ink is not cheap.

Overall, if you are a college student looking for a reliable all-in-one printer, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is definitely worth considering.

HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer

If you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for college, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is worth considering.

Pros

• With up to 2 years of Original HP Ink included in the box, you can print up to 6,000 black or color pages right out of the box, making it perfect for high-volume printing.
• The printer is equipped with wireless capabilities, allowing you to print, copy and scan from anywhere, at any time.
• The Smart-guided buttons illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan and copy tasks, making it easy to use.

Cons

• The printer prints slowly, which could be frustrating if you're in a rush.
• The setup process can be time-consuming and requires downloading the 'HP Smart' app before setting up.
• The printer does not have a bottom bed paper tray, which may not be ideal for some users.

The HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a smart and connected tank printer that delivers color graphics and crisp text for your everyday prints. It is equipped with self-healing Wi-Fi that automatically detects and resolves connection issues, ensuring reliable connectivity. The printer's spill-free refill system makes it easy to replenish ink, without squeezing or spilling.

The HP Wolf Essential Security helps maintain privacy and control with basic encryption and password protection, protecting you from viruses and malware. Made from 45% recycled plastic, the printer has a sustainable design, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Overall, if you're looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-use printer for college, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a great choice.

Canon Pixma TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer

If you're looking for an affordable printing solution for your college work, the Canon Pixma TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer might be a great option for you.

Pros

• The fine hybrid ink system produces high-quality documents and photos.
• The rear paper tray makes it easy to refill paper quickly.
• The compact size of the printer allows it to fit almost anywhere.

Cons

• The printer doesn't have wireless connectivity, so you'll need to connect it to your computer with a USB cable.
• The output tray capacity is limited to 60 sheets of plain paper or 20 sheets of 4 x 6 / 10 sheets of 5 x 7 photo paper.
• The printer doesn't come with a USB cable, so you'll need to purchase one separately.

The Canon Pixma TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer is a great option for college students who need a simple and affordable printing solution. The printer's fine hybrid ink system produces detailed documents and photos, making it perfect for printing essays, reports, and photos for your projects. Additionally, the printer's rear paper tray makes it easy to refill paper quickly, so you can focus on your work instead of worrying about running out of paper.

One downside of the Canon Pixma TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer is that it doesn't have wireless connectivity, so you'll need to connect it to your computer with a USB cable. Additionally, the printer's output tray capacity is limited to 60 sheets of plain paper or 20 sheets of 4 x 6 / 10 sheets of 5 x 7 photo paper, which might not be enough for some users. Finally, the printer doesn't come with a USB cable, so you'll need to purchase one separately.

Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and reliable printing solution for your college work, the Canon Pixma TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer is definitely worth considering.

HP ENVY 6055e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer

If you're a college student in need of a reliable printer for your studies, the HP ENVY 6055e is a great choice.

Pros

• With print speeds of up to 7 pages per minute in color and 10 pages per minute in black, this printer is perfect for busy students who need to print documents quickly.

• The HP Smart app allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, making it easy to work on-the-go.

• The printer also features easy wireless setup and self-healing Wi-Fi, so you won't have to worry about connectivity issues.

Cons

• This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry. Periodic firmware updates will maintain the effectiveness of these measures.

• The printer's light that stays on can be a bit bright and distracting in a dark room.

• While the HP Smart app is convenient, it may not have all the advanced features that some users need.

The HP ENVY 6055e is a great printer for college students who need to print documents and photos quickly and easily. With its easy wireless setup and self-healing Wi-Fi, you won't have to worry about connectivity issues. Plus, the HP Smart app makes it easy to work on-the-go. However, keep in mind that this printer only works with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry, and the light that stays on can be a bit distracting in a dark room.

Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer

If you're a college student in need of a portable printer that can print high-quality documents and photos, the Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is a great option.

Pros

• The printer is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your bag or backpack.
• You can print wirelessly from your mobile device, tablet, or computer.
• The printer has an intuitive interface with a 1.44-inch OLED display, making it easy to print anytime, anywhere.

Cons

• The printer's ink cartridges are small and can run out quickly.
• The printer is not designed for printing large volumes of documents.
• The printer's print speeds are not as fast as some other portable printers on the market.

The Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is a great option for college students who need a printer that is both portable and capable of printing high-quality documents and photos. The printer is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your bag or backpack. You can print wirelessly from your mobile device, tablet, or computer, and the printer has an intuitive interface with a 1.44-inch OLED display, making it easy to print anytime, anywhere.

However, the printer's ink cartridges are small and can run out quickly, which may be a concern for students who need to print large volumes of documents. Additionally, the printer's print speeds are not as fast as some other portable printers on the market, which may be a drawback for students who need to print large volumes of documents quickly.

Overall, if you're a college student in need of a portable printer that can print high-quality documents and photos, the Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is a great option.

Phomemo M02 Pocket Printer

If you are looking for a portable and easy-to-use printer for your college needs, the Phomemo M02 Pocket Printer might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• Print on-the-go with its compact size that fits in your pocket.
• Connects easily with Bluetooth 4.0 and offers a stable connection up to 33 feet.
• Print high-quality black and white images with the Phomemo app that offers various fonts, filter effects, and themes.

Cons

• Only prints black and white, with special paper that can be printed in blue.
• Instructions can be difficult to understand, and it doesn't come with information on how long each paper roll is.
• Tearing the paper can be difficult and doesn't tear all the time.

This thermal pocket printer is perfect for printing photos, text, and more instantly. It is ideal for students, amateur archivists, treasure moms, and anyone who needs to print on-the-go. The Phomemo M02 is better for company business, work plan, office assistant, memo, meeting notes, study notes, shopping list, and more.

The Phomemo M02 Pocket Printer is a powerful mini printer that can do wonders for your college needs. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, and its powerful app allows you to print high-quality black and white images with ease. The stable Bluetooth connection ensures that you can print from a distance without any interruptions.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a portable and easy-to-use printer for your college needs, the Phomemo M02 Pocket Printer is definitely worth considering. Its compact size, powerful app, and stable Bluetooth connection make it a great investment for anyone who needs to print on-the-go.

Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer

If you're a college student in need of a reliable printer for your work, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• With its compact size and versatile functionality, the PIXMA TR4720 is perfect for small dorm rooms or apartments.
• The easy setup process, which can be done through the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, makes it a breeze to get started with your printing tasks.
• The built-in Fax functionality and Auto Document Feeder for multi-page scanning make it a great all-in-one option for your printing needs.

Cons

• The printer's 2-Cartridge hybrid ink system may require frequent replacements, which could add up in cost over time.
• While the front loading paper tray is convenient for quick paper loading, its 100-sheet capacity may not be sufficient for larger print jobs.
• With a maximum print speed of 8.8 for monochrome and 4.4 ppm for color, this printer may not be the fastest option on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a compact and versatile printer that can handle all of your printing needs as a college student, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer is a solid choice. Its easy setup process and built-in Fax functionality make it a convenient option for all-in-one printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. However, its 2-Cartridge hybrid ink system and relatively slow print speed may not be ideal for those with high-volume printing needs.

Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer

If you're looking for a printer that can handle all your college assignments, the Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a great option. With its wireless connectivity and Alexa compatibility, this printer is perfect for students who want to print, scan, or copy documents from their phone or tablet.

Pros

• Never run out of ink with Alexa integration
• Wireless 3-in-1 (Print | Copy | Scan)
• Auto 2-Sided Printing

Cons

• Limited paper capacity (100 sheets)
• Slow printing speed (13 / 6.8 ipm Print Speed)
• No Ethernet connectivity

This printer is perfect for college students who need to print assignments and scan documents on a regular basis. With Alexa integration, you can easily check your ink levels and order new ink cartridges before you run out. The wireless connectivity makes it easy to print from your phone or tablet, and the auto 2-sided printing feature helps save paper.

However, the paper capacity is limited to 100 sheets, so you might need to refill it frequently if you're printing a lot of documents. The printing speed is also relatively slow, with a maximum of 13 pages per minute for monochrome and 6.8 pages per minute for color. Additionally, the printer doesn't have Ethernet connectivity, which might be an issue if you need to connect it to a wired network.

Overall, the Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a great option for college students who need a reliable and affordable printer. It has all the essential features you need for your assignments, and the Alexa integration is a nice bonus that can help you save money on ink.

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

If you are looking for a reliable printer for your college assignments, the Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-In-One Color Inkjet Printer is a great choice.

Pros

• With wireless 3-in-1 capabilities, you can print, copy and scan documents with ease.
• The printer is compatible with mobile devices, allowing you to print and scan photos and documents directly from your phone or tablet.
• The printer is ENERGY STAR certified, making it an eco-friendly option.

Cons

• The printer is relatively slow, with a maximum print speed of 9.9 ppm for monochrome and 5.7 ppm for color.
• It has a limited paper capacity of 100 sheets, which may not be enough for larger print jobs.
• The initial set-up process can be confusing and time-consuming.

The Canon Pixma MG3620 is a compact and space-saving printer that can easily fit in your dorm room. Its wireless capabilities make it convenient to use, and you can easily print from your mobile devices without any additional software. The printer's auto 2-sided printing feature helps you save paper, and you can enroll in smart reorders with Alexa to ensure that you never run out of ink or toner.

However, the printer's slow print speed may not be ideal for those who need to print large volumes of documents quickly. Additionally, the limited paper capacity may require frequent refills, which can be inconvenient. The initial set-up process can be confusing, but once you have it up and running, the printer is easy to use.

Overall, the Canon Pixma MG3620 is a solid choice for college students who need a reliable and convenient printer for their academic needs.

HP DeskJet 4155e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer

If you're a college student looking for a printer that can handle basic color documents like recipes and forms, the HP DeskJet 4155e might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• With print speeds of up to 8.5 pages per minute in black and 5.5 pages per minute in color, this printer is fast enough for most college students' needs.
• The HP+ Smart Printing System keeps the printer up to date and ready to print from anywhere, and you get three months of free Instant Ink with HP+.
• The HP Smart app makes it easy to print, scan, and copy documents from your phone, and the auto document feeder and mobile fax features are nice bonuses.

Cons

• The printer is intended to work only with cartridges that have original HP chips or circuitry, so you'll need to make sure you're using the right kind of ink.
• The box it comes in may be slightly damaged, which could be a concern for some buyers.
• Some users have had issues setting up the printer with the app, so be prepared for a potentially frustrating experience.

If you're looking for a basic color printer that can handle your college printing needs without breaking the bank, the HP DeskJet 4155e might be a good choice for you. With fast print speeds, easy mobile printing, and the option to upgrade to HP+ for advanced features, this printer is a solid choice for students who need to print, scan, and copy documents on a regular basis. Just be aware that you'll need to use original HP ink cartridges and that the setup process may be a bit tricky.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a printer for college, there are a few key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for a printer:

Printer Type

There are two main types of printers: inkjet and laser. Inkjet printers are generally more affordable and better suited for printing photos and graphics, while laser printers are faster and more efficient for printing text documents. Consider what types of materials you will be printing most often to determine which type of printer is best for you.

Connectivity

Most printers today offer a variety of connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Consider what devices you will be printing from and choose a printer that offers the appropriate connectivity options.

Print Quality

Print quality is an important consideration, especially if you will be printing a lot of documents. Look for a printer with a high resolution and good color accuracy to ensure that your documents look professional.

Paper Handling

Consider the types of paper and media that the printer can handle. If you will be printing on cardstock or other heavy materials, make sure that the printer is capable of handling these materials. Additionally, consider the size of the paper that the printer can handle to ensure that it meets your needs.

Cost

Finally, consider the cost of the printer and the cost of replacement ink or toner cartridges. While a printer may be affordable upfront, the cost of replacement cartridges can add up quickly. Look for a printer with affordable replacement cartridges to ensure that you can continue to use the printer without breaking the bank.

By considering these key features, you can choose a printer that meets your needs and helps you succeed in college.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most cost-effective printers for college students?

When looking for a printer as a college student, cost-effectiveness is a top priority. Some of the most affordable printers for students are the HP DeskJet 3755, Canon PIXMA TR4520, and Epson Expression Home XP-4100. These printers offer basic printing, scanning, and copying functions without breaking the bank.

Which printers are compatible with MacBook for university coursework?

Most printers are now compatible with MacBooks, but it's always best to double-check before purchasing. Some popular printers that are compatible with MacBooks include the HP Envy 6055, Canon PIXMA TS8320, and Epson EcoTank ET-2760. These printers offer high-quality printing and scanning capabilities, making them great options for university coursework.

What are the top-rated printers for college students according to student forums?

According to student forums, some of the top-rated printers for college students include the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015, Canon PIXMA TR8520, and Brother MFC-J895DW. These printers offer a range of features, including wireless connectivity, automatic document feeders (ADFs), and high-quality printing.

Are there any programs offering free printers to students?

Some universities and colleges offer free printers to their students. Additionally, some printer manufacturers offer student discounts or promotions that can make purchasing a printer more affordable. It's always worth checking with your school or the printer manufacturer to see if there are any programs or discounts available.

What are the best compact printers suitable for a small dorm room?

For students living in small dorm rooms, compact printers are a great option. Some of the best compact printers for dorm rooms include the HP Tango X, Canon PIXMA TR150, and Epson WorkForce WF-110. These printers are small enough to fit on a desk or shelf, but still offer high-quality printing and scanning capabilities.

Which Canon printers are recommended for university student needs?

Canon is a popular brand for printers, and they offer a range of options for university students. Some of the best Canon printers for university student needs include the Canon PIXMA TS9520, Canon PIXMA TR4520, and Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw. These printers offer a range of features, including wireless connectivity, automatic duplex printing, and high-quality printing.