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 Brother MFC-J4335DW INKvestment Tank printer is designed with cost efficiency in mind, making it a strong choice if you want a printer that won’t demand frequent ink replacements. It uses a unique INKvestment Tank system where ink cartridges feed an internal tank, allowing you to print up to a year with the ink included out of the box. This means fewer trips to buy ink and lower cost per page compared to many other inkjet printers. When you do need to replace cartridges, options for high-yield cartridges (up to 6,000 pages black and 5,000 color) help keep running costs low over time.

The printer supports automatic duplex printing, which saves paper by printing on both sides, another way it helps reduce ongoing expenses. Connectivity is flexible with USB and wireless options, plus compatibility with mobile apps and Alexa, making it easy to print from various devices and even manage ink reorders through voice commands. The print speeds are decent for home or small office use, with 20 pages per minute in black and 16 in color. It also includes scanning, copying, and faxing functions, which add to its value as an all-in-one device.

It weighs about 17.6 pounds and has a somewhat larger footprint compared to very compact models, so it may take up more desk space. Some users might find the initial setup or app navigation a bit complex if they are not tech-savvy, though the LCD display and touch controls help. If you prioritize low ink costs, convenience of long-lasting cartridges, and versatile connectivity, this printer is a budget-friendly option to run without frequent interruptions or high ink expenses.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2850 is designed to be a budget-friendly printer with its innovative cartridge-free system. Instead of using traditional ink cartridges, it features high-capacity ink tanks that significantly reduce printing costs. Each set of ink bottles can print up to 7,500 pages in black and 6,000 pages in color, promising substantial savings and less frequent refills. This makes it an excellent choice for users looking to minimize the cost per page and avoid the hassle of constantly replacing cartridges. The inclusion of up to two years of ink with the initial purchase adds to its appeal in terms of long-term cost savings.

The printer also supports auto duplex printing, which helps save paper and is convenient for double-sided printing tasks. Its print quality is commendable, thanks to Epson's Micro Piezo Heat-Free technology, which ensures sharp text and vibrant color prints. On the connectivity front, the ET-2850 offers wireless printing and is compatible with smart devices through the Epson Smart Panel app, making it versatile for modern work environments. However, the printing speeds are relatively modest at 10.5 ppm for black and 5 ppm for color, which may not be ideal for high-volume printing needs.

Additionally, while the printer is energy efficient and reduces waste by eliminating cartridges, it requires genuine Epson ink to maintain optimal performance. The built-in scanner and copier, along with the LCD display, enhance its functionality, making it a well-rounded device for home and small office use. While it excels in reducing operational costs and providing reliable print quality, its slower print speeds might be a drawback for some users.