We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Color Printers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – The Ideal Basic Home Printer - Black, Medium

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a versatile, all-in-one color printer best suited for home use. One of its standout features is its cartridge-free printing system, which uses high-capacity ink tanks, leading to significant savings on ink costs. The ink bottles can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 in color, which means fewer replacements and less waste compared to traditional cartridges. This makes it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for those who print frequently. The print quality is impressive, thanks to Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free technology, which ensures sharp text and vibrant color prints on various paper types.

The built-in scanner and copier add convenience for home users who need more than just printing capabilities. Connectivity options are modern and flexible, including Wi-Fi and USB, and it supports mobile printing via apps and voice-activated commands. However, its print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute (ppm) for monochrome and 5 ppm for color, which might not be ideal for users who need fast printing. The paper handling capacity is moderate, with a 100-sheet input tray, which should be sufficient for home use but may require frequent refills for heavier tasks.

The printer’s size and design are compact, making it easy to fit into most home office spaces. While the initial cost of the printer might be higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings on ink can justify the investment. Additionally, using genuine Epson ink is recommended to maintain optimal performance and avoid warranty issues. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is perfect for home users looking for an economical, high-quality printer with added scanning and copying functions, although its slower print speed and moderate paper handling capacity might be limiting for more demanding tasks.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Print Quality (Resolution)
Print quality is excellent for both documents and photos, with vibrant colors and no smudges.
Ink/Toner Cost and Yield
The ink tank system is satisfying and eco-friendly, with ink that lasts significantly longer than traditional cartridges and reduces plastic waste.
Size and Design
This printer is impressive with its compact size and lightweight design, taking up less desk space than expected.
#2

HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer, Office Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF, Duplex, Best-for-Office (499Q5F)

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw is designed for small teams needing a reliable all-in-one solution for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. With a print speed of up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color, it caters well to office environments where efficiency is key. The next-generation TerraJet toner enhances color vibrancy, making it suitable for producing professional-quality documents. It also supports duplex printing, which saves paper and costs, and features an auto document feeder for added convenience.

Connectivity options are robust, with dual-band Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet available, ensuring seamless integration into a variety of office setups. The HP app allows for easy printing from smartphones, enhancing usability for tech-savvy and less tech-savvy users alike.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The printer is relatively heavy at 37.7 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users if relocation is necessary. Additionally, it exclusively works with original HP cartridges, which could lead to higher long-term ink costs if you are used to using third-party supplies. While the printer emphasizes security with built-in features, these may require regular firmware updates that could be an inconvenience for some users. In terms of sustainability, the design reduces plastic use and energy consumption, which is a positive aspect for environmentally-conscious buyers. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw is a solid choice for small businesses looking for a dependable, multifunctional printer that delivers high-quality results and efficiency.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Print Quality (Resolution)
The printer delivers beautiful and vibrant color prints, making it an excellent choice for those who need high-quality printing.
Connectivity Options
Wireless connectivity is flawless, and the HP printer app is easy to use, enhancing the overall user experience.
Ink/Toner Cost and Yield
Only HP printer cartridges can be used, but the longevity of the toner means replacements might only be needed every 2-3 years for home use.
Size and Design
The printer's professional appearance and build quality make it a suitable addition to any home office.
Additional Features
Setting up the HP Color LaserJet Pro was a breeze, and it worked perfectly with macOS without needing to install any drivers.
#3

Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF and Ethernet – Ideal-for Your Home Office, White

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a versatile color printer designed for home office use. It stands out due to its innovative cartridge-free printing system, which significantly reduces ink costs and waste. The high-capacity ink tanks can print up to 4,500 black pages and 7,500 color pages, providing up to 2 years of ink with each refill set, making it a cost-effective choice for heavy users. The print quality is impressive, with sharp text and vibrant color output thanks to Epson's Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology.

The printer also features a flatbed scanner, copier, fax, and an automatic document feeder (ADF), adding to its multifunctionality. Connectivity options are robust, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and hands-free voice-activated printing, with easy integration with smart devices via the Epson Smart Panel App. Users can also print from any device that can send emails, enhancing convenience. However, the print speed is relatively modest, at 10 ppm for monochrome and 5 ppm for color, which might be a drawback for those needing faster output.

The printer's size and design make it a suitable fit for home office spaces, though it may be slightly bulky for very small desks. Duplex printing is available, which is a valuable feature for saving paper. On the downside, the initial setup might require some time, and the upfront cost is higher compared to traditional cartridge printers, although this is offset by the long-term savings on ink. The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 has a 4.1-star rating from over 3,600 customer reviews, indicating general satisfaction with its performance and reliability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Print Quality (Resolution)
For a home or small office printer, the ET-4800 delivers solid performance with crisp document quality and adequate color prints for everyday needs.
Print Speed
The print speed might not be the fastest, but it's a minor trade-off for the cost savings and reliability.
Connectivity Options
The printer offers robust connectivity options and integrates seamlessly with smart devices via the Epson Smart Panel App.
Paper Handling
The output tray is flimsy and seems like it would easily break if bumped, so handle with care.
Ink/Toner Cost and Yield
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a breath of fresh air in a world dominated by frustrating ink subscriptions and overpriced cartridges.
Duplex Printing
The printer's dual-sided printing feature is really handy, especially for tasks like printing zines.
Size and Design
While the display screen is tiny and not a touchscreen, navigating menus can be done through the app or computer.
Additional Features
Setting up the printer is refreshingly simple, with a mess-free process for filling the ink tanks and a straightforward setup guided by a phone app.

Buying Guide for the Best Color Printers

Choosing the right color printer can be a daunting task, but with a little guidance, you can find the perfect one to meet your needs. The key is to understand the various specifications and how they align with your specific requirements. Whether you need a printer for home use, a small office, or a large business, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision.
Print Quality (Resolution)Print quality, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines how sharp and detailed the printed images and text will be. Higher DPI values mean better print quality. For general home use, a resolution of 600 x 600 DPI is usually sufficient. For professional photo printing or high-quality graphics, look for printers with 1200 x 1200 DPI or higher. Consider what you will be printing most often to decide the level of print quality you need.
Print SpeedPrint speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), indicates how quickly a printer can produce documents. This is important if you need to print large volumes of documents regularly. For home use, a speed of 10-20 PPM is typically adequate. For office environments, look for printers with speeds of 20-40 PPM or higher. Assess your typical print volume to determine the appropriate print speed for your needs.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options determine how you can connect your printer to your devices. Common options include USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. For home use, Wi-Fi connectivity is convenient for wireless printing from multiple devices. In an office setting, Ethernet connectivity might be preferred for a stable and fast connection. Consider how you plan to connect your printer and choose one that offers the necessary options.
Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the types and sizes of paper a printer can accommodate, as well as the capacity of its paper trays. If you need to print on various paper sizes or types, such as envelopes or cardstock, ensure the printer supports them. For home use, a standard paper tray capacity of 100-150 sheets is usually enough. For office use, look for printers with larger capacities or multiple trays to reduce the frequency of refilling.
Ink/Toner Cost and YieldThe cost and yield of ink or toner cartridges can significantly impact the overall cost of owning a printer. Yield refers to the number of pages a cartridge can print before needing replacement. High-yield cartridges may have a higher upfront cost but can be more economical in the long run. Research the cost and yield of cartridges for the printers you are considering and factor this into your decision, especially if you print frequently.
Duplex PrintingDuplex printing allows a printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper. This feature can save paper and reduce printing costs. It is particularly useful for office environments where large documents are printed regularly. For home use, it is a convenient feature but not always necessary. Consider whether duplex printing is important for your typical printing tasks.
Size and DesignThe size and design of a printer can affect where you can place it and how it fits into your workspace. Compact printers are ideal for small spaces or home offices, while larger printers may be better suited for dedicated office environments. Think about the available space you have and choose a printer that fits comfortably without being obtrusive.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features such as scanning, copying, and faxing can add versatility to your printer. All-in-one printers that include these functions can be very convenient, especially in a home office or small business setting. Consider whether you need these extra features and how often you will use them to determine if an all-in-one printer is the right choice for you.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now