10 Best Cheapest Printer To Run 2025 in the United States

The Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer is a solid choice for small businesses looking for a cost-effective printing solution. This printer uses laser toner, which generally has a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, making it cheaper to run in the long term. The high print yield of Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL toner means fewer replacements and savings on supply costs. The duplex printing feature helps reduce paper usage, contributing to lower operational costs and environmental benefits. Additionally, the printer is Energy Star and EPEAT qualified, indicating good energy efficiency which can help keep electricity costs down.

However, it's worth noting that while the upfront cost of genuine Brother toner can be high, subscribing to the Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service can provide savings and convenience with automatic toner replenishment. Maintenance costs are generally low for laser printers, and the Brother DCP-L2640DW is no exception, with reliable performance reducing the need for frequent repairs. Connectivity is versatile with options including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet, which makes it adaptable to various office setups and easy to integrate. The Brother Mobile Connect app adds convenience for managing printing tasks remotely.

On the downside, being a monochrome printer, it only prints in black and white, which might not be suitable for businesses needing color prints. Additionally, the printer's weight (25 pounds) and size may be a consideration if space is limited. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Brother DCP-L2640DW is a cost-effective and efficient printer for small businesses.

The HP DeskJet 4255e is a versatile all-in-one printer that is well-suited for home use, with the added benefit of being one of the more affordable options to run. It uses pigment-based ink, which often provides better longevity and quality for prints. The printer includes 3 months of HP's Instant Ink service, which can significantly reduce costs if you subscribe after the trial period. However, costs may increase if you opt out of the subscription, as it is designed to work best with original HP cartridges and may block third-party options due to firmware updates.

The print yields are modest, with speeds of up to 8.5 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white, and 5.5 ppm for color, making it suitable for everyday home or small office tasks but not ideal for high-demand environments. Manual duplex printing is available, which can help save paper, though it requires more effort than automatic duplexing. Energy efficiency is a strong point, as it meets Energy Star and EPEAT certifications. Connectivity is straightforward with reliable single-band Wi-Fi and compatibility with smartphones and PCs, but it lacks some advanced connectivity options seen in higher-end models.

The compact design and user-friendly HP app make it a convenient choice for small spaces and less tech-savvy users. The 60-sheet input tray and 25-sheet output capacity are adequate for light to moderate use, but larger print jobs will require frequent reloading. The printer's scan and copy resolutions are on the lower end, which might be a concern for users needing high-quality scans or copies. The product includes a one-year warranty with an option to extend, adding a layer of purchase security. This printer is best suited for home users looking for an affordable, eco-friendly printing solution with the convenience of wireless operations and mobile printing.