10 Best Cheapest Color Printer 2026 in the United States

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a solid choice for a budget-friendly color printer, especially for home use. One of its standout features is the innovative cartridge-free printing system, which utilizes high-capacity ink tanks. This design not only means that you won't have to deal with the hassle of replacing small, expensive cartridges but can also save you up to 90% on replacement ink costs over time. With enough ink included to print approximately 4,500 black and 7,500 color pages, it significantly reduces the frequency of ink purchases, making it a great option for light to moderate printing needs.

In terms of print quality, the ET-2800 performs well, producing sharp text and vibrant images thanks to Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology. It’s versatile enough to handle various paper types, which is a bonus if you plan to print different projects. The built-in scanner and copier add functionality, making it an all-in-one solution for basic document needs, and the color display helps with navigation. Connectivity options are also flexible with both wired and wireless capabilities, allowing you to print from various devices, including smartphones.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute for black and only 5 pages per minute for color prints. If you have a high volume of printing, this might be a drawback. Additionally, while the size is manageable, it might still take up more space than some compact printers, particularly if you have a smaller workspace. Lastly, while the warranty provides peace of mind, some users may prefer traditional cartridges for convenience and speed of replacement. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is particularly appealing for users looking to save on ink costs while enjoying decent print quality and multifunction capabilities, but it may not meet the needs of those requiring high-speed printing.

The HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw is a multifunctional color laser printer designed primarily for office use, making it an appealing choice for small teams needing reliable and quality color printing, scanning, and copying. One of its standout features is the print speed, which reaches up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color, ensuring efficiency during busy workdays. The inclusion of dual-band Wi-Fi allows for seamless wireless printing, while the HP app facilitates easy mobile management.

The print quality is enhanced by the next-generation TerraJet toner, providing vivid colors and professional results, which is beneficial for businesses producing colorful documents. The printer also includes practical features like automatic two-sided printing and a 250-sheet input tray, minimizing the frequency of paper refills and enhancing productivity.

On the downside, the printer's weight of 37.7 pounds may make it less portable, and some users might find the upfront costs associated with purchasing toner cartridges a bit high, especially if printing in high volume. The toner cartridges (HP 218A and 218X) can be expensive over time, impacting cost-effectiveness compared to inkjet alternatives. While the printer is designed with sustainability in mind, users should also consider the environmental impact of using toner and the necessity for proper recycling options. The HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw stands out for its reliability and performance, making it a solid option for small offices looking for a dependable color printer. Its built-in security features also provide peace of mind against cyber threats.

The Canon Megatank G3290 is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable color printer that also handles scanning and copying. Its print quality is good, with a sharp 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution for both color and black-and-white prints, which means your documents and photos will come out clear and detailed. In terms of speed, it prints about 11 pages per minute in black and white and 6 pages per minute in color; this is decent for home or small office use but not the fastest if you need high volume quickly. Connectivity is flexible with both Wi-Fi and USB options, so you can print from your phone or computer without hassle. A standout feature is the Megatank system that comes with up to two years' worth of ink included, allowing you to print thousands of pages before needing a refill, which saves you a lot on ink costs compared to traditional cartridges.

Paper handling is straightforward with one tray holding up to 100 sheets and support for various paper sizes, including borderless photo printing. The printer also offers convenient multifunction features like auto duplex (double-sided) printing and a 2.7-inch color touchscreen for easy control. Its compact design is reasonable, weighing about 14 pounds and measuring 14 by 16 inches, so it won’t take up too much desk space.

The print speed is acceptable for casual use, but it may feel slow for heavier printing needs. Also, having only one paper tray means switching paper types might be a bit less convenient for some users. This printer is best suited for budget-conscious users who want reliable color printing with low ink costs and useful all-in-one features rather than those needing very fast or high-volume printing.