10 Best Low Budget Printer 2025 in the United States

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a low-budget, all-in-one color printer designed for home use. One of its standout features is the innovative cartridge-free printing system using high-capacity ink tanks, which can drastically reduce the cost of consumables. The printer comes with enough ink to last up to two years, making it a cost-effective option for those who print frequently. Additionally, replacing ink bottles is straightforward and less wasteful compared to traditional cartridges, promoting environmental sustainability.

This model also includes a built-in scanner and copier, adding to its versatility for home projects. The print quality is commendable, thanks to Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology, which ensures sharp text and vibrant photos and graphics on various paper types.

However, the printer's speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute (ppm) for monochrome and 5 ppm for color prints, which might not be suitable for high-volume printing needs. Another drawback is the manual duplex printing, requiring users to flip the pages themselves for double-sided printing. Connectivity options are decent, with both wired and wireless capabilities, although it does not support Ethernet connections. The paper handling capacity is moderate, holding up to 100 sheets, which is adequate for home use but may be limited for more intensive printing tasks. The printer's LCD display and control method via the app are user-friendly, although the screen might be small for some users. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is well-suited for users seeking a cost-efficient, eco-friendly, and reliable home printer, but it may not be the best choice for those needing fast print speeds or extensive paper handling.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One Printer is a solid choice for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a versatile and affordable printer. It features inkjet technology, capable of printing professional-quality color documents at speeds up to 18 ppm for color and 22 ppm for black. The print resolution is quite high at 1200 x 1200 dpi for black and white documents and up to 4800 x 1200 dpi for color photos, ensuring clear and vivid prints.

Connectivity options are robust, including wireless, USB, and Ethernet, which makes it easy to connect multiple devices such as smartphones, PCs, and laptops. The printer also supports dual-sided printing and has a 250-sheet input tray, which is handy for high-volume print jobs. The touchscreen interface is user-friendly and enhances the ease of navigation and operation. The HP Smart app allows for convenient printing, scanning, copying, and faxing directly from your smartphone. An additional benefit is the 3 months of Instant Ink included, which can save users money on ink.

However, the cost of consumables might add up after the initial free period, particularly since the printer is designed to work only with original HP cartridges. Another potential downside is its weight, at around 20 pounds, making it less portable. Security features are a plus, with HP Wolf Pro Security protecting your data. The sustainable design, using more than 40% recycled plastic, is also a commendable feature. On the downside, firmware updates could potentially block the use of third-party cartridges, which could be a limitation for some users. This printer is a good fit for those who need a reliable and multifunctional device but are mindful of ongoing ink costs.