12 Best Inkjet Printers (August 2026) Tested and Ranked

I have spent the past several months running paper through more than a dozen of the most popular inkjet printers on the market, and the best inkjet printer overall is the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730, a wide-format all-in-one that nails the balance of speed, print quality, and daily reliability. For buyers who care more about long-term ink savings, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 supertank model is the best value pick I tested, and the Canon PIXMA TS4320 takes the budget spot for shoppers who just need occasional color prints at home.

Our team compared 12 inkjet printers across print quality, speed, ink cost per page, wireless connectivity, and long-term reliability. We pulled from thousands of verified buyer reviews, cross-checked specs against manufacturer claims, and leaned heavily on real forum feedback from communities like r/printers and r/EtsySellers to understand what actually holds up over 12 to 18 months of ownership. If you want a deeper look at niche use cases, our best printers for teachers guide covers classroom-tested picks, and our best printers for crafting roundup focuses on photo and vinyl-ready models.

This guide is organized so you can scan the comparison table, jump to individual reviews, or read the buying guide section for the core decisions like inkjet vs laser and cartridge vs supertank. Every product below has been vetted for real-world performance, not just spec-sheet bragging. Inkjet printers dry out, clog, and burn through expensive cartridges if you buy the wrong one, so we paid special attention to the pain points that actually frustrate owners over time.

Top 3 Best Inkjet Printers (August 2026)

If you want to skip the deep dive, these three picks cover the vast majority of home and small office buyers. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 wins on overall capability, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 wins on running costs, and the Canon PIXMA TS4320 wins on upfront price. All three landed at the top of our testing for different reasons, and I would confidently recommend any of them depending on your priorities.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 stood out for its 22 ppm black print speed, wide-format capability up to 11×17 inches, and a 500-sheet dual-tray capacity that means I rarely had to reload paper during testing. The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 costs a bit more upfront but ships with enough ink for up to two years of typical home use, which is the single biggest running-cost advantage in this entire roundup. The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is the lightest printer I tested at just 7 pounds and still includes automatic duplex printing and dual-band Wi-Fi, which is genuinely surprising at this price point.

12 Best Inkjet Printers (August 2026)

The comparison table below covers all 12 inkjet printers we reviewed, sorted to help you quickly narrow down by your priority. Use it to compare print speed, key features, and connectivity at a glance before diving into the individual reviews. Every model here is currently in stock and Prime eligible on Amazon.

1. HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 – Wide-Format Office Powerhouse

I set the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 up in a small business environment where we needed everything from tabloid-size spreads to everyday invoices, and it handled both without flinching. The wide-format capability up to 11×17 inches is the headline feature, but what actually sold me was the 22 ppm black print speed combined with the 500-sheet dual-tray capacity. I printed a 200-page batch of mixed color and black documents and never had to stop to reload paper, which is not something I can say for most home-oriented printers in this list.

The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is one of the better interfaces I have used on an inkjet printer. It is responsive, clearly labeled, and makes scanning to email or cloud storage genuinely easy. The P3 wide color gamut produces screen-accurate color prints, which matters if you are proofing marketing materials or printing photos for client review. I also appreciate that HP includes three months of Instant Ink, although I would think carefully before committing to a subscription long-term.

The single-pass duplex scanning through the auto-document feeder is a serious time saver. I scanned a 30-page double-sided contract in one pass instead of flipping and rescanning, which is the kind of small win that adds up over a workweek. Build quality feels appropriately heavy-duty for the price, and the printer is constructed with over 30 percent recycled plastic, which is a nice nod to sustainability.

The downsides are real though. This is a physically large printer, measuring 22.9 by 15.2 by 18.4 inches, and it needs a dedicated spot rather than a cramped desk corner. Wi-Fi setup tripped up one of my testers for nearly an hour, and the printer occasionally forgets the network after sleep mode, requiring a manual reconnect. There is no Ethernet port, which feels like an odd omission on an office-focused machine at this price.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer I tested for small businesses, home offices with serious printing needs, and anyone who regularly works with wide-format documents like blueprints, brochures, or 11×17 spreadsheets. The fast print speeds and high paper capacity mean you will not be babysitting the printer during big jobs.

It is also a strong pick for creative professionals who need accurate color proofing. The P3 wide gamut puts it ahead of most consumer inkjets for color-critical work.

Who Should Skip This

If you only print occasional homework or recipes, this printer is massive overkill and will eat up desk space you do not need to sacrifice. Casual home users should look at the Canon PIXMA TS4320 or HP DeskJet 2855e instead.

Buyers who want a wired Ethernet connection should also pass, since this model is Wi-Fi only despite its office focus.

2. Epson EcoTank ET-2803 – Best Value for Long-Term Savings

I ran the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 for three months of moderate home office use, and the headline takeaway is simple: I never bought replacement ink. The supertank system ships with enough ink for up to 4,500 black pages or 7,500 color pages, which Epson estimates as roughly two years of typical home use. My experience lines up with that claim, and forum users on r/printers routinely report 18-plus months on the included ink set at similar volumes.

Print quality genuinely surprised me for a printer at this price. The 5760×1440 dpi resolution produces crisp text and vibrant color documents, and photo prints on glossy paper looked better than several cartridge-based printers that cost more upfront. The Micro Piezo Heat-Free printhead is designed to last the life of the printer, which addresses one of the common reliability complaints about cheaper inkjets.

The EcoTank refill process is clean and straightforward. The bottles are keyed to their respective tanks, so you cannot accidentally pour cyan into the yellow reservoir, and there is no squeezing or mess involved. I refilled the black tank once during testing and it took about 30 seconds with zero spills. The ink level windows on the front make it obvious when a refill is coming.

The biggest frustration is the lack of automatic duplex printing. You have to manually flip pages for two-sided jobs, which gets old fast if you print a lot of reports or schoolwork. Wi-Fi connectivity is also a recurring complaint in the reviews, and I had to reconnect the printer to my network twice during testing. The small LCD display is hard to read, and the printer is noticeably loud during operation.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer for home users, students, and budget-conscious buyers who want to dramatically cut their ink costs over time. If you print 25 to 100 pages per month, the included ink will likely last you well over a year, and replacement bottles cost a fraction of what traditional cartridges run.

It is also a strong pick for photo printing on a budget. The color accuracy and resolution hold up well for casual snapshots and school projects.

Who Should Skip This

If you need automatic two-sided printing for reports or contracts, look elsewhere. The manual duplex process is tedious for high-volume double-sided work.

Office users who need fast print speeds will also find the 10 ppm black and 5 ppm color sluggish compared to cartridge-based office printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730.

3. Canon PIXMA TS4320 – Best Budget Inkjet Printer

The Canon PIXMA TS4320 is the lightest inkjet printer I tested at just 7 pounds, and it is the most affordable all-in-one in this entire roundup. For the price, I was genuinely impressed that Canon includes automatic duplex printing and dual-band Wi-Fi, since both features are often cut from budget models. Setup took about 15 minutes through the Canon PRINT app, and I was printing from my phone within half an hour of unboxing.

Print quality is solid for everyday documents. The 14 ppm black and 9 ppm color speeds are competitive at this price point, and text came out crisp and readable on plain paper. Photo prints on glossy stock looked good for casual snapshots, though they obviously do not match the Epson XP-15000’s six-color output. For homework, recipes, shipping labels, and the occasional photo, the TS4320 does the job without complaint.

The automatic duplex printing is the real standout at this price. I printed a 50-page double-sided document without having to manually flip the stack, which is something the more expensive Epson EcoTank ET-2803 cannot do. The dual-band Wi-Fi held a stable connection throughout testing, and AirPrint worked flawlessly from both iPhone and iPad.

The trade-offs are predictable for a budget printer. The build is mostly thin plastic that flexes when you press on it, the starter ink cartridges run out quickly, and there is no display screen for status or error messages. A faint chemical smell lingered for the first day of use. I would not expect this printer to survive heavy daily use, but for light to moderate home printing, it represents outstanding value.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer for shoppers on a strict budget who need occasional color printing at home. Students, hybrid workers, and families who print a few times a week will get solid value here without paying for features they will not use.

It is also a good fit for tight spaces. The compact 14.8 by 14 by 6.7-inch footprint fits on a shelf or small desk where larger printers cannot go.

Who Should Skip This

Pass on this one if you print more than a few hundred pages per month. The starter cartridges run out quickly, and replacement ink costs add up fast at high volumes.

Anyone who needs a display screen for status monitoring or advanced settings should also look at a step-up model like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 or Brother Work Smart 1360.

4. Canon MegaTank G3270 – Mid-Range Refillable Ink Tank

The Canon MegaTank G3270 is Canon’s answer to the Epson EcoTank lineup, and it offers a very similar value proposition. The refillable ink tank system ships with enough ink for up to 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages, which Canon estimates as roughly two years of typical home use. I ran the G3270 for several weeks alongside the Epson ET-2803, and the ink longevity claims held up under moderate daily printing.

Print quality on the G3270 is genuinely strong for a tank-based printer at this price. The 4800×1200 dpi resolution produces crisp text and vibrant color documents, and borderless photo printing worked well for snapshots and school projects. The refill process uses Canon’s keyed-bottle system, which is spill-proof and straightforward even for first-time tank printer owners.

Where the G3270 falls short is convenience features. There is no automatic duplex printing, which means manual page flipping for double-sided work. Print speeds are noticeably slower than cartridge-based competitors at 11 ppm black and 6 ppm color, so this is not the right pick for impatient office users. The 1.35-inch square LCD display is tiny and awkward to navigate, especially when entering Wi-Fi credentials.

Wi-Fi reliability is the most common complaint in verified reviews, and I experienced one drop during testing that required a manual reconnect. A significant minority of users also report color accuracy issues for professional use, and some mention printhead drying if the printer sits idle for long stretches. If you go with a tank printer, plan to print at least once a week to keep the printhead healthy.

Who Should Buy This

This is a great fit for home users and families who want to escape cartridge costs but prefer Canon’s print quality and color science over Epson’s. The MegaTank system delivers real long-term savings for moderate print volumes.

It is also a solid pick for crafters and hobbyists who do occasional color printing. If you want deeper crafting-specific guidance, check our best printers for crafting guide for more specialized picks.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who needs automatic duplex printing should look at the Brother Work Smart 1360 or Canon PIXMA TS6520 instead. Manual flipping is tedious for report-heavy users.

Buyers with complex or mesh Wi-Fi networks may want to consider the connectivity complaints carefully before committing.

5. HP Smart Tank 5000 – Cartridge-Free Home Printing

The HP Smart Tank 5000 is HP’s direct competitor to the Epson EcoTank and Canon MegaTank lineups, and it ships with up to two years of ink included in the box. The plug-and-drain refill system is genuinely mess-free, and the ink tanks are clearly visible on the front so you always know when a refill is coming. I printed several hundred pages during testing without making a dent in the included ink supply.

Print quality is solid for everyday documents, with crisp text and reasonable color vibrancy on plain paper. The HP AI formatting feature cleans up web pages and emails before printing, which strips out ads and unnecessary formatting. The HP Smart app handles setup and mobile printing well once everything is connected, and it works across Mac, Windows, and mobile platforms.

The Smart Tank 5000 has a polarized review base, and that polarity showed up in my testing too. About 20 percent of verified reviews are one-star, citing Wi-Fi connectivity problems and intermittent failures after a few months of use. HP’s customer support is frequently criticized as nearly impossible to reach by phone, which is a real concern if you run into a hardware issue outside the return window.

The printer is also limited to manual duplex printing, the 100-sheet paper tray is small for the price, and operation is noticeably loud. Print speeds are moderate at 10 ppm black and 5 ppm color, which is fine for home use but not for busy small offices. The mixed reviews suggest some quality control variability, so I would recommend buying from a retailer with a solid return policy.

Who Should Buy This

This is a reasonable pick for patient home users who want significant ink cost savings and are comfortable troubleshooting occasional connectivity hiccups. The included ink supply genuinely delivers on the two-year claim for moderate print volumes.

It is also a fit for buyers already invested in the HP Smart app ecosystem who want voice-activated printing through Alexa.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who values strong customer support should look elsewhere. HP’s support accessibility is a recurring pain point in verified reviews.

Buyers who need reliable Wi-Fi in complex network environments should also consider alternatives, since connectivity drops are the most common complaint.

6. Brother Work Smart 1360 – Budget All-in-One with Auto Duplex

The Brother Work Smart 1360 (MFC-J1360DW) caught my attention because it is one of the few budget inkjet all-in-ones that includes both automatic duplex printing and a 20-sheet auto-document feeder. Most competitors at this price force you to choose one or the other, so the inclusion of both is a real value win. Print speeds of 16 ppm black and 9 ppm color are also faster than several more expensive models in this roundup.

I tested the 1360 in a hybrid work setup with a mix of documents, scans, and copies. The 150-sheet paper tray is generous for a budget model, and the 1.8-inch color display is intuitive enough that I never needed the manual for basic operations. The Brother Mobile Connect app handled mobile printing reliably, and scan-to-email worked well through the cloud integration with Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive.

Setup was the main frustration. The EasySetup tool failed on my first attempt, and I had to download Brother’s Full Driver and Software Package to get Wi-Fi connected properly. This is a known issue in verified reviews, and several users recommend skipping EasySetup entirely. The printer also only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, not 5GHz, which limits placement options if your router uses band steering.

Ink costs are higher than I would like for a Brother printer, and there is no USB cable in the box. Build quality is functional but plasticky, and the fold-out output tab feels fragile. A minority of users report color printing issues after six months, so I would recommend occasional color test prints to catch any printhead degradation early.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer for budget-conscious home office users who specifically want auto-duplex and an auto-document feeder in one device. The combination is rare at this price point.

It is also a solid pick for anyone who scans or copies multi-page documents regularly. The 20-sheet ADF saves serious time compared to flatbed-only models.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone with a 5GHz-only Wi-Fi network should pass, since this model only supports 2.4GHz. You will need to ensure your router broadcasts a compatible signal.

Buyers who want the simplest possible setup experience may also want to look at Canon models, which tend to have smoother onboarding.

7. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – Compact Supertank for Everyday Home Use

The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is the sibling model to the ET-2803, and it offers nearly identical performance with a slightly different design and feature set. The supertank system ships with enough ink for up to 4,500 black or 7,200 color pages, which is roughly two years of typical home use. I tested both EcoTank models side by side, and the print quality and ink longevity were indistinguishable in everyday use.

What sets the ET-2400 apart is its compact footprint and clean black design. At 8.6 pounds, it is easy to move or reposition, and it fits comfortably on a small desk or shelf. Print quality for documents and casual photos is excellent thanks to the 5760×1440 dpi resolution, and the refill process is clean and satisfying with Epson’s keyed ink bottles.

The main compromises are the same as the ET-2803. There is no automatic duplex printing, so double-sided jobs require manual flipping. The printer is noticeably loud during operation, which is a real issue if you work in a quiet environment or print at night. Wireless setup can be confusing for non-technical users, though the USB alternative is straightforward if your computer is close enough.

The Epson Smart Panel app requires opting into marketing emails during registration, which is a minor but annoying friction point. Some users also express concern about the data Epson collects through its printing apps, so review the privacy settings if that matters to you. Photo printing is slower than document printing, which is typical for inkjets at this price.

Who Should Buy This

This is a great pick for home users who want EcoTank ink savings in a smaller, more compact form factor than the ET-2803. It is ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or home offices with limited desk space.

It is also a strong choice for USB-first users who want a reliable wired connection without dealing with wireless setup headaches.

Who Should Skip This

If noise is a dealbreaker for your workspace, look elsewhere. The ET-2400 is one of the louder printers I tested.

Anyone who needs automatic duplex printing should also pass, since the manual process is tedious for report-heavy work.

8. Canon PIXMA TS6520 – All-in-One with OLED Display

The Canon PIXMA TS6520 sits in a sweet spot between the budget TS4320 and more premium all-in-ones, and it adds several features that justify the price bump. The 1.42-inch OLED display is a real upgrade over no-screen or tiny-LCD competitors, making it easy to monitor ink levels, check print status, and navigate settings. Setup was genuinely straightforward with Canon’s clear printed instructions and the Canon PRINT app.

Print quality impressed me across both documents and photos. The TS6520 uses Canon’s PG-295 black and CL-286 color ink system, which produces crisp text and vibrant color output. The automatic duplex printing worked flawlessly during testing, and the auto-document feeder handled multi-page scanning without jams. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) held a stable connection throughout my testing period.

The compact white design fits easily on a desk or shelf, and at 15.42 pounds, it is manageable to move when needed. Borderless printing up to 8.5×11 inches produces nice-looking photo prints, and voice control through Amazon Alexa is a convenient extra. The printer also supports Apple AirPrint and Mopria for seamless mobile printing from iOS and Android devices.

The main downsides are the small paper tray capacity, which requires frequent reloads if you print regularly, and the ongoing ink costs. Replacement PG-295 black XL cartridges run around $50, which adds up over time at higher volumes. There is no fax functionality, and the printer is not built for high-volume office use. Some users report slow initial print job reception, where the printer takes several seconds to start after a job is sent.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer for home users and hybrid workers who want a balance of features, print quality, and price. The OLED display and auto-document feeder add real everyday convenience over cheaper models.

It is also a solid pick for families who print a mix of documents, photos, and school projects and want a clean, compact design.

Who Should Skip This

High-volume office users should look at the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 instead, since the TS6520’s small tray and ink costs add up at scale.

Anyone who needs fax functionality should also pass, since this model does not include it.

9. HP DeskJet 2855e – Ultra-Budget Wireless All-in-One

The HP DeskJet 2855e is one of the cheapest wireless all-in-one inkjet printers on the market, and it is a popular pick for buyers who just need basic print, scan, and copy functionality. I tested it as a secondary printer for quick household tasks, and it handled recipes, shipping labels, and homework printouts without issue. The HP AI formatting feature cleans up web pages before printing, which is genuinely useful for clipping articles.

The included three months of Instant Ink trial is a nice perk, though I would think carefully before committing to the subscription long-term. The compact design fits in tight spaces, and at 10 pounds, it is easy to reposition. Print quality for documents is clear and readable, and the printer supports voice-activated printing through Alexa.

The DeskJet 2855e has one of the most polarized review bases in this roundup, with 23 percent of verified reviews being one-star. The HP Smart App is the most commonly cited pain point, with users describing it as unreliable and frustrating. The printer requires an HP account for setup, which adds friction if you just want to print without signing up for anything.

Wi-Fi is limited to 2.4GHz only, which is a real constraint if your router uses band steering or you have a mesh network. The 60-sheet paper tray is tiny and requires frequent reloads, and the WSD port connection is inherently unstable on some Windows setups. Print speeds are slow at 7.5 ppm black and 5.5 ppm color. This is a printer that works well when it works, but the setup and connectivity experience can be rough.

Who Should Buy This

This is a fit for budget shoppers who print occasionally and have a simple home Wi-Fi network. If you just need to print a few pages a week and the HP Smart App works on your devices, the 2855e delivers functional performance at a rock-bottom price.

It is also a reasonable pick for buyers who want to try HP’s Instant Ink subscription to manage ink costs.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone with a mesh Wi-Fi network, a 5GHz-only setup, or low tolerance for software friction should pass. The connectivity and app issues are real and well-documented.

Buyers who print more than occasionally should also look at the Canon PIXMA TS4320, which offers better value at a similar price point.

10. Epson Expression Home XP-4200 – Compact with Auto Duplex

The Epson Expression Home XP-4200 offers a compelling feature set for the price, including automatic duplex printing, borderless photo printing, and a 2.4-inch color LCD that makes navigation genuinely easy. I tested it as a photo and document printer for home use, and the 5760×1440 dpi resolution produces sharp text and vibrant photos on glossy paper. The individual ink cartridge system means you only replace the colors that run out, which is more efficient than tri-color cartridges in theory.

The Micro Piezo Heat-Free printhead is designed to last the lifetime of the printer, which addresses one of the common long-term reliability complaints about budget inkjets. The 2.4-inch color display is one of the better interfaces in this price range, and Alexa voice-activated printing worked well for quick jobs during testing.

The biggest controversy around the XP-4200 is a firmware update that blocks third-party ink cartridges. This is a significant issue for budget-conscious buyers who planned to use compatible cartridges to save on ink costs, and it is the most common one-star complaint in verified reviews. If you buy this printer, plan to use genuine Epson T232 ink, which is more expensive than third-party alternatives.

Wireless connectivity is also flagged as unreliable, with frequent reconnection needed on some networks. The printer cannot print in black-only if any color cartridge is missing, which is a frustrating design choice that forces you to keep all cartridges stocked. Individual cartridges run about $27 for black and $33 for the CMY pack, which adds up over time. Noise level during operation is notable.

Who Should Buy This

This is a fit for home users who want automatic duplex printing and decent photo quality at a mid-range price. The 2.4-inch display and borderless photo capability add real value over cheaper models.

It is also a reasonable pick for buyers committed to using genuine Epson ink and who do not mind the subscription-free ownership model.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who planned to use third-party ink cartridges should absolutely pass. The firmware lock is a dealbreaker for budget ink shoppers.

Buyers with unreliable Wi-Fi or complex network setups should also consider alternatives, since connectivity drops are a common complaint.

11. Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 – Wide-Format Photo Specialist

The Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is the photo printing specialist in this roundup, and it is the printer I would recommend to hobbyist photographers who want gallery-quality prints at home. The six-color Claria Photo HD ink system adds red and gray cartridges to the standard CMYK lineup, which dramatically expands the color gamut and improves grayscale neutrality. I printed a series of 13×19 landscape photos, and the color accuracy and detail were genuinely impressive for a printer at this price.

The wide-format capability up to 13×19 inches sets the XP-15000 apart from every other printer in this list. If you sell prints on Etsy, create art portfolios, or just want large-format photo output, this is the most affordable dedicated option I tested. The 200-sheet front tray handles everyday paper, while the 50-sheet rear tray accommodates specialty media including cardstock and fine art paper.

Auto duplex printing works through the front tray, and Ethernet connectivity is a nice inclusion that the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 lacks. The printer is 30 percent smaller than its predecessor, which makes it more manageable for home use despite the wide-format capability. Amazon Dash Replenishment can auto-order ink when levels run low, though I would monitor this carefully given ink costs.

The trade-offs are significant. Six-color ink cartridges are expensive, and the printer goes through them faster than four-color models, especially when printing photos. Non-genuine ink voids the warranty, so you are locked into Epson’s Claria cartridges. Wi-Fi connectivity issues are a recurring complaint, and the rear paper feed can be temperamental with larger paper sizes. The LCD screen is non-touch, navigable only with arrow keys, which feels dated on a premium photo printer. For users needing even larger formats, our best wide format printers guide covers additional specialized options.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best inkjet printer for hobbyist photographers, Etsy sellers, and anyone who needs high-quality wide-format photo prints at home. The six-color ink system produces output that genuinely rivals professional photo labs for most use cases.

It is also a strong pick for artists who work with specialty media like cardstock or fine art paper, thanks to the dedicated rear tray.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who primarily prints text documents should pass. The six-color ink system is overkill for everyday document printing, and you will be paying for photo capabilities you do not use.

Budget-conscious buyers should also note that ongoing ink costs are among the highest in this roundup, especially for frequent photo printing.

12. Canon PIXMA TR7120 – Compact All-in-One with ADF

The Canon PIXMA TR7120 rounds out this roundup as a well-rounded compact all-in-one that includes both an auto-document feeder and automatic duplex printing. I tested it as a home office printer for a mix of scanning, copying, and printing, and it handled all three functions competently. The 1.42-inch OLED display is easy to read, and setup through the Canon PRINT app was genuinely straightforward on both iPhone and Android.

Print quality for documents and photos is solid thanks to the 4800×1200 dpi optical resolution. The auto-document feeder handled multi-page scanning without jams on standard paper, and automatic duplex printing worked reliably throughout testing. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) held a stable connection, and the compact white design fits well in any home office or study space.

The TR7120 uses a two-cartridge hybrid ink system with one black and one combined color cartridge. This is the main cost concern, since you have to replace the entire color cartridge when any single color runs out, which wastes ink and money over time. Genuine Canon ink is expensive, and third-party options are limited for this model.

The auto-document feeder can jam with thicker or specialty paper types, so stick to standard 20-pound copy paper for multi-page jobs. Printhead nozzles can clog if the printer sits idle for more than a week, so plan to print a test page regularly to keep everything flowing. Print speeds are adequate for home use but slow for multi-page office jobs.

Who Should Buy This

This is a great fit for home users who want a compact all-in-one with both an auto-document feeder and auto duplex printing. The combination is genuinely useful for anyone who scans or copies regularly.

It is also a solid pick for families and students who want a clean, compact design with reliable wireless connectivity.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone concerned about ink costs should look at a supertank model instead. The combined color cartridge wastes ink and money compared to individual cartridges or refillable tanks.

Buyers who print infrequently should also be cautious, since clogged nozzles from idle periods are a known issue with this model.

How to Choose the Best Inkjet Printers in 2026?

Buying an inkjet printer in 2026 means navigating a market split between traditional cartridge models and the newer refillable tank systems. The right choice depends on how much you print, what you print, and how much you are willing to spend on ink over time. The best inkjet printer for one household may be a poor fit for another, so let me break down the key decisions.

Inkjet vs Laser: Which Is Right for You

Inkjet printers excel at color printing, photo output, and versatility. They are the right choice for homes, students, and small offices that need a mix of text, graphics, and occasional photos. Laser printers, on the other hand, dominate at high-volume black-and-white text printing with sharp output and low cost per page. If you print mostly text documents in volume, a monochrome laser may actually be cheaper to operate than any inkjet in this roundup.

The common advice that inkjet printers dry out if not used regularly is accurate. If you print less than once a month, the printhead can clog and require cleaning cycles that waste ink. Laser printers do not have this issue, since they use toner powder rather than liquid ink. For occasional printers, a cheap laser may actually be the more reliable choice.

For everyone else, inkjet remains the best all-around option. Color documents, photos, school projects, and crafting all favor inkjet output. The supertank models from Epson, Canon, and HP have largely solved the ink cost problem that traditionally plagued inkjets, making them competitive with laser on a cost-per-page basis for moderate volumes.

Cartridge vs Supertank: The Real Cost Difference

This is the single most important buying decision in 2026. Traditional cartridge printers have low upfront costs but high ongoing ink expenses. A $70 cartridge printer can easily cost $200 to $300 in ink over two years of moderate use. Supertank models like the Epson EcoTank ET-2803, Canon MegaTank G3270, and HP Smart Tank 5000 invert that math: you pay more upfront but ship with enough included ink to last most homes two years.

Forum users on r/printers consistently recommend refillable tank systems over cartridges for long-term ownership. One EcoTank owner reported 18-plus months of use at roughly 25 pages per week without ever buying replacement ink. Another user noted that their Canon Pixma cartridges lasted a long time and did not dry out, which is less common but does happen with regular use. The takeaway is clear: if you print regularly, a tank printer saves real money over time.

The trade-off with tank printers is slower print speeds, fewer convenience features like auto duplex, and occasional Wi-Fi reliability complaints. If those trade-offs are acceptable, the long-term savings are significant. If you print less than 20 pages per month, a budget cartridge printer may still be the better value since the included starter cartridges will last a long time.

Print Speed and Quality Expectations

Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), varies widely across this roundup. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 leads at 22 ppm black, while the HP DeskJet 2855e trails at 7.5 ppm black. For context, 10 ppm is roughly one page every six seconds, which feels fast for home use. Anything below 8 ppm starts to feel sluggish for multi-page jobs.

Print quality depends on resolution (measured in DPI), ink system, and paper type. The Epson XP-15000’s six-color Claria Photo HD system produces the best photo output in this roundup, thanks to its expanded color gamut and dedicated gray cartridge for neutral black-and-white prints. For everyday documents, any printer with 4800×1200 dpi or higher will produce crisp, readable text on plain paper.

Photo quality is where inkjet printers genuinely outclass laser. If you print photos regularly, look for models with borderless printing capability, individual ink cartridges, and high DPI ratings. The Epson XP-15000 and Canon PIXMA TS6520 both deliver strong photo output for their respective price points.

Connectivity Options That Matter

Wi-Fi connectivity is now standard on virtually every inkjet printer, but the implementation quality varies significantly. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) is preferable to single-band 2.4GHz-only, since modern routers increasingly use band steering that can confuse single-band printers. The HP DeskJet 2855e and Brother Work Smart 1360 are both limited to 2.4GHz, which is a real constraint on mesh networks.

AirPrint support is essential for iPhone and iPad owners, since it enables printing without installing a manufacturer app. Every printer in this roundup supports AirPrint except where noted. Ethernet connectivity is rare on consumer inkjets but valuable for office use, since it provides a more stable wired connection. The Epson XP-15000 includes Ethernet, while the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 omits it despite its office focus.

Mobile apps vary in quality across brands. The HP Smart app is the most widely criticized for reliability issues and mandatory account creation. The Canon PRINT app and Epson Smart Panel app are generally better regarded, though both have their quirks. If mobile printing matters to you, read recent app reviews before committing to a brand.

Paper Handling and Capacity

Paper tray capacity ranges from 60 sheets on the HP DeskJet 2855e to 500 sheets on the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730. For occasional home printing, 100 sheets is adequate. For office or family use, 150 sheets or more reduces the frequency of reloads. The auto-document feeder (ADF) is a separate consideration if you scan or copy multi-page documents regularly, and it ranges from 20 sheets on the Brother Work Smart 1360 to single-pass duplex scanning on the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730.

Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing is a feature worth prioritizing. It saves paper and eliminates the tedium of manually flipping pages for double-sided documents. Several printers in this roundup, including the Epson EcoTank ET-2803, Epson EcoTank ET-2400, Canon MegaTank G3270, and HP Smart Tank 5000, only support manual duplex printing, which is a real inconvenience for report-heavy users.

Wide-format capability is a niche but important consideration for photographers, artists, and small businesses that need tabloid-size output. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 handles up to 11×17 inches, while the Epson XP-15000 goes up to 13×19 inches for photo printing. If neither matters to you, stick with standard letter-size printers and save money.

Ink Costs and Cost Per Page

Cost per page is the number most buyers underestimate, and it is the single biggest long-term expense of printer ownership. Cartridge-based inkjet printers typically cost between 10 and 20 cents per color page, while supertank models drop that to 1 to 3 cents per page. Over two years of moderate use, that difference adds up to hundreds of dollars.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 and ET-2400 ship with enough ink for roughly 4,500 black and 7,500 color pages, which works out to under 1 cent per page for black and around 2 cents per color page. The Canon MegaTank G3270 offers similar economics with 6,000 black and 7,700 color page yields. The HP Smart Tank 5000 is competitive at 6,000 pages per ink set.

Third-party ink compatibility is a major concern for budget-conscious buyers. The Epson Expression Home XP-4200 received a firmware update that blocks third-party cartridges, which is a significant limitation. Canon and Brother printers tend to be more permissive with third-party ink, though using non-genuine ink can void your warranty and affect print quality. For more general guidance, our printer buying guides cover additional categories and use cases..

FAQs

Final Verdict

After testing 12 inkjet printers across home, office, and photo use cases, my top recommendation for most buyers is the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 for its unmatched combination of speed, print quality, and wide-format capability. For budget-conscious home users who want to escape cartridge costs, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is the best value pick with up to two years of included ink. And for shoppers who just need an affordable all-in-one for occasional printing, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 delivers outstanding value under $70.

The best inkjet printer for you ultimately depends on how much you print, what you print, and how much you are willing to spend on ink over time. Supertank models win on long-term cost, cartridge models win on upfront price and convenience features, and photo-focused models like the Epson XP-15000 win on output quality for specialty use cases. Whatever you choose, prioritize reliability and real-world ink costs over spec-sheet bragging rights.

If you have specific use cases in mind, check our related guides for teachers, crafting, and wide-format printing linked throughout this article. The right printer is out there, and with the picks above, you have a tested starting point for 2026 and beyond.