There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of ink. Then suffering sticker shock at the price of replacement cartridges for your printer. When shopping for a printer that can use cheap ink, it’s essential to consider the initial cost and also the cost per page in B&W and color.
In our latest guide, we highlight five winning printers out of 26 evaluated based on their performance and test data. We examined 148,416 customer reviews and certified the best that excelled in testing while filtering out fake and low-quality reviews. Our unique approach leverages our scientific True Score to ensure you get reliable, cost-effective options. These models not only save on ink but also rank as some of the best printers available today, combining cost-efficiency with top-notch performance across various printing tasks.
How Did We Rank the Best Printers with Cheap Ink?
Our guide to the best printers with cheap ink is based on an extensive review of over 200 websites. We analyzed testing methodologies, customer feedback, and expert opinions to determine the most critical criteria: 2 must-have specifications. This rigorous approach allows us to deliver precise, dependable recommendations, helping you find a printer that combines affordability with top performance.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
? Test Criteria
- Print Speed: Black & White Printing Speed exceeds 20 pages per minute (ppm).
- Printing Costs: Printing costs are less than 5 cents per page.
Latest Updates
- 06/10/2024: Republished the list to include the best printers with cheap ink based on our True Score system.
Top Best Printers with Cheap Ink For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Epson Ecotank ET-5850
Best For Envelopes
The Epson Ecotank ET-5850 excels in speed and economy, blending high-volume capability with cost-effective ink usage at a premium price.
True Score
89903Experts
88798Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $50$849.99$799.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High-quality, reliable printing
- Great scanning features
- Low running costs
- Blazing print speeds
Reasons to Avoid
- Mediocre color accuracy
Specifications
Automatic Document Feeder Yes 
Automatic Two-Sided Printing Yes 
Copier Resolution (B&W) – 
Copier Resolution (Color) – 
Depth 32.4″ 
Duplex Scan Function Yes 
Energy Star Certified Yes 
Height 13.8″ 
Integrated Fax Yes 
Max Number of Copies 999 
Max Paper Width 8.5″ 
Mobile Printing Yes 
Number of Ink Cartridges Required 4 
Paper Feeder Cassette tray 
Print Speed (B&W) 25 ppm 
Print Speed (Color) – 
Printer Resolution (B&W) – 
Printer Resolution (Color) – 
Printer Type – 
Scanner Resolution – 
Scanner Type – 
Tray Capacity – 
Width – 
Wireless Yes All Specs
Test Results
B&W Print Speed (ppm) 23 Color Print Speed (ppm) 18 B&W Printing Costs (¢ per page) 1 Color Printing Costs (¢ per page) 2 Color Accuracy (dE) 7 All Retailers
$799.99$850Save $50Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
$799.99$850Save $50Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
$799.99$850Save $50Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Availability
Free Shipping
Our Verdict
For those seeking a high-end option in printers with economical ink usage, the Epson Ecotank ET-5850 stands out, not just for its premium stature but notably for its exceptional print speeds. With a best-in-class black-and-white print speed of 23 pages per minute (ppm) and a color print speed of 18.1 ppm, this printer ensures efficiency in handling high-volume print tasks, making it an ideal choice for environments where time is of the essence.
The ET-5850 prioritizes economical ink usage, with a low printing cost of just 0.5 cents per page, not far off from the 0.3 cents of the Epson Ecotank ET-3850. Its connectivity options are extensive, supporting both wired and wireless connections. These and mobile printing capabilities offer the flexibility required in today’s varied printing scenarios. The printer’s 550-sheet tray capacity, all-in-one design, and support for multiple ink cartridges further ensure that it can handle substantial print jobs without frequent interventions for paper or ink replenishments. Moreover, its color accuracy, with a delta E of 7.02, indicates reliable color reproduction for most documents and presentations, although those with exacting color requirements might seek more specialized solutions.
With its comprehensive features and stellar performance, the Epson Ecotank ET-5850 stands out for regular office work and shines in scenarios requiring bulk document printing and even the odd photo print job. This printer strikes an excellent balance between print speed, output quality, and ink usage cost efficiency, making it ideal for those prioritizing a mix of performance and economy, provided the higher upfront cost is within their budget.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Epson Ecotank ET-8550
The Epson Ecotank ET-8550 is an excellent upper mid-range printer with impressive performance and ink efficiency. It is a versatile choice for various printing needs.
True Score
86853Experts
883kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $103$799.99$697.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Superior-quality printing
- Great scanning quality
- Low running costs
- Sufficient print speeds
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited scanning features
Specifications
Automatic Document Feeder Yes Automatic Two-Sided Printing Yes Copier Resolution (B&W) – Copier Resolution (Color) – Depth 29.8″ Duplex Scan Function – Energy Star Certified Yes Height 16.9″ Integrated Fax – Max Number of Copies – Max Paper Width – Mobile Printing Yes Number of Ink Cartridges Required 6 Paper Feeder – Print Speed (B&W) 16 ppm Print Speed (Color) 12 ppm Printer Resolution (B&W) – Printer Resolution (Color) Up to 5760 x 1440 Printer Type All In One, Copier, Printer, Scanner Scanner Resolution na Scanner Type na Tray Capacity 100 Width 20.6″ Wireless Yes All Specs
Test Results
B&W Print Speed (ppm) 15 Color Print Speed (ppm) 9 B&W Printing Costs (¢ per page) 0 Color Printing Costs (¢ per page) 3 Color Accuracy (dE) 6 All Retailers
- $697.00$800Save $103
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $699.99$800Save $100
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $699.99$800Save $100
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for an excellent ink-efficient printer that doesn’t cost a premium, the Epson Ecotank ET-8550 offers impressive performance for an upper mid-range printer. While its color accuracy, with a delta E (dE) of 6.48, is best-in-class for a printer within this category, it is not ideal for tasks demanding absolute color precision, such as graphic design or printing professionals.
This printer goes beyond merely offering economical color printing with a 0.4 cents cost per page, the printer’s performance in other areas, such as print speed and ink efficiency, further broadens its suitability beyond just cost-effective color printing. Its black-and-white speed of 15.45 ppm is only behind the Epson Ecotank ET-5850’s 23 ppm, while its color printing is at 8.95 ppm. Coupled with the convenience of duplex printing, this is a versatile printer not only for standard office tasks but also for more niche hobbies like scrapbooking or crafting, where print quality and economy are valued.
Additionally, with a 100-sheet tray capacity and the capability to handle large format (11×17 inches) prints, this model stands out for users requiring versatility in media size, from standard documents to expansive photographic or artistic projects. The connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities, enhance its usability in varied settings, from home offices to small businesses, ensuring seamless integration with multiple devices.
While the Epson Ecotank ET-8550 may not fulfill the highest standards of color accuracy for professional-grade artwork reproduction, its blend of speed, efficiency, and broad functionality renders it an excellent option for a range of other printing tasks, balancing quality with ink efficiency.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Epson Ecotank ET-8500
The Epson Ecotank ET-8500 excels in efficiency and versatility, making it a top choice for diverse printing needs with its low per-page cost.
True Score
84836Experts
892kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $101$699.99$598.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Superior print quality
- Excellent scan quality
- Minimal running cost
Reasons to Avoid
- Average printing speeds (mono)
- No ADF
Specifications
Automatic Document Feeder No Automatic Two-Sided Printing Yes Copier Resolution (B&W) – Copier Resolution (Color) – Depth 24.1″ Duplex Scan Function na Energy Star Certified Yes Height 6.4″ Integrated Fax – Max Number of Copies – Max Paper Width – Mobile Printing Yes Number of Ink Cartridges Required 6 Paper Feeder Tray loader Print Speed (B&W) 16 ppm Print Speed (Color) 12 ppm Printer Resolution (B&W) Up to 4800 x 1200 Printer Resolution (Color) Up to 4800 x 1200 Printer Type All In One Scanner Resolution – Scanner Type – Tray Capacity 100 Width 15.9″ Wireless Yes All Specs
Test Results
B&W Print Speed (ppm) 13 Color Print Speed (ppm) 7 B&W Printing Costs (¢ per page) 0 Color Printing Costs (¢ per page) 3 Color Accuracy (dE) 0 All Retailers
- $598.99$700Save $101
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $599.99$700Save $100
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $599.99$700Save $100
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for an all-in-one printer that combines cost-efficiency with impressive performance, the Epson Ecotank ET-8500 stands out for its low running costs. Notably, it boasts an economical printing cost of just .3 cents per page, tied for best-in-class. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize long-term ink savings, making the ET-8500 a standout choice for users who require frequent printing without breaking the bank.
The Epson Ecotank ET-8500 doesn’t just impress with its cost-effectiveness. It excels in delivering quality and versatility thanks to its tray capacity of 100 sheets and the ability to handle a wide range of paper sizes and types. This adaptability is crucial for users with diverse printing needs, from standard documents to more creative projects. Moreover, its comprehensive connectivity options include wired and wireless connections, ensuring seamless integration into any home or office setup.
Beyond its economical ink usage and versatile paper handling, the ET-8500 shines in other areas, too. Its print speed for color documents is 7.35 pages per minute, and for black-and-white documents, it is 13.4 ppm, offering a respectable rate that balances speed with high-quality output. This performance, combined with its capacity for duplex printing and mobile printing capabilities, underscores its value for various printing tasks beyond economical ink consumption.
While the Epson Ecotank ET-8500 is exceptional for its low ink costs, its broader performance makes it a compelling choice for various applications. Whether you’re printing high volumes of documents, engaging in crafting hobbies like scrapbooking, or need a reliable printer for occasional use, the ET-8500’s combination of efficiency, quality, and versatility makes it a worthy contender in its category.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Epson Ecotank ET-3850
The Epson Ecotank ET-3850 shines with its low cost per page and solid performance, making it an ideal pick for efficiency and quality in-home or small offices.
True Score
83837Experts
854kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $80$399.99$319.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High print quality
- Great scan quality
- Minimal running costs
- Adequate monochrome printing speeds
Reasons to Avoid
- Average color printing speeds
- Poor color accuracy
Specifications
Automatic Document Feeder Yes Automatic Two-Sided Printing Yes Copier Resolution (B&W) – Copier Resolution (Color) – Depth 19.8″ Duplex Scan Function Yes Energy Star Certified Yes Height 9.1″ Integrated Fax Yes Max Number of Copies – Max Paper Width – Mobile Printing Yes Number of Ink Cartridges Required 4 Paper Feeder Top loader Print Speed (B&W) 15.5 ppm Print Speed (Color) 8.5 ppm Printer Resolution (B&W) – Printer Resolution (Color) Up to 4800 x 1200 Printer Type All In One, Copier, Printer Scanner Resolution – Scanner Type – Tray Capacity 250 Width 14.8″ Wireless Yes All Specs
Test Results
B&W Print Speed (ppm) 15 Color Print Speed (ppm) 6 B&W Printing Costs (¢ per page) 1 Color Printing Costs (¢ per page) 3 Color Accuracy (dE) 10 All Retailers
- $319.99$400Save $80
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $319.99$400Save $80
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $319.99$400Save $80
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a cost-effective printing solution, the Epson Ecotank ET-3850 is a commendable mid-range option. It is particularly notable for its impressively low operating cost of just 0.3 cents per page. This printer stands out among printers designed for economical ink usage, offering a blend of efficiency and quality that is hard to overlook.
With a black-and-white print speed of 15.5 pages per minute (ppm), the Epson Ecotank ET-3850 is second only to the Epson Ecotank ET-5850’s impressive 23 ppm. Coupled with a respectable color print speed of 5.5 ppm and a color accuracy delta E of 10.4, the ET-3850 proves to be a dependable choice for both home and small office settings, catering to users who value a blend of rapid printing and visual quality in their documents.
The ET-3850 supports vital features for a printer in its category, including wireless connectivity, duplex printing, and an automatic document feeder, enhancing its usability and versatility. These features cater to various printing needs, from standard document printing to more demanding tasks like compiling reports or crafting materials.
The Epson Ecotank ET-3850’s operational cost efficiency and functional versatility should not be understated. Beyond its primary appeal for those seeking economical ink solutions, this printer could also serve well in environments where varied document printing, occasional color needs, and convenient features like mobile printing and energy efficiency are valued. Its performance ensures it will be a reliable choice for home offices or small businesses looking to balance cost and capability.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
HP LaserJet Tank MFP 2604SDW
This HP LaserJet Tank MFP 2604SDW excels in value and versatility without sacrificing quality, especially for cost-conscious users.
True Score
81822Experts
802kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $220$419.99$199.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High-quality printing
- Remarkably low running costs
Reasons to Avoid
- Flatbed scanner
- Mediocre printing speed
- Lacks versatility
Specifications
Automatic Document Feeder Yes Automatic Two-Sided Printing Yes Copier Resolution (B&W) Up to 600 x 600 Copier Resolution (Color) – Depth 15.7″ Duplex Scan Function No Energy Star Certified Yes Height 12.3″ Integrated Fax No Max Number of Copies – Max Paper Width – Mobile Printing Yes Number of Ink Cartridges Required 1 Paper Feeder Bottom loader Print Speed (B&W) 23 ppm Print Speed (Color) – Printer Resolution (B&W) Up to 600 x 600 Printer Resolution (Color) – Printer Type All In One Scanner Resolution Up to 600 x 1200 Scanner Type Flatbed Tray Capacity 100 Width 16.5″ Wireless Yes All Specs
Test Results
B&W Print Speed (ppm) 13 Color Print Speed (ppm) 0 B&W Printing Costs (¢ per page) 1 Color Printing Costs (¢ per page) 0 Color Accuracy (dE) 0 All Retailers
- $199.99$420Save $220
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $199.99$420Save $220
Availability
Free Shipping
No - $199.99$420Save $220
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
- $419.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for an all-in-one printer that offers exceptional value without compromising quality, the HP LaserJet Tank MFP 2604SDW stands out as a noteworthy consideration. Awarded for delivering the best value in its class, this printer exemplifies how economical ink usage doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality. Its efficient design requires only one ink cartridge, simplifying maintenance while ensuring consistent print quality. The substantial tray capacity and the convenience of duplex printing enhance its appeal for users seeking reliability and cost-effectiveness in their printing tasks.
The HP LaserJet Tank MFP 2604SDW doesn’t just save on ink costs; it’s designed for versatility. Its resolution of 600×600 DPI and moderate print speed of 12.85 pages per minute for black-and-white documents ensures a balance between speed and precision, making it suitable for environments where quality can’t be compromised for quick outputs. However, it’s worth noting that its cost per print stands at .7 cents, slightly higher than models like the Epson Ecotank ET-8500, which offers printing at just .3 cents per page.
The true versatility of the HP LaserJet Tank MFP 2604SDW comes to light when considering its potential beyond just economical ink usage. Its design and features suggest it could be well-suited for small business environments or users with diverse printing needs, from high-volume document printing to more creative ventures. In settings where clear, sharp black and white prints are paramount, this printer promises to deliver, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications where budget is a concern.
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Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best Printers with Cheap Ink?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these printers and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase a printer that has cheap ink.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| B&W Print Speed | > 20 ppm | Yes | How fast a printer can produce purely black and white pages while printing. |
| B&W Printing Costs | < 7 cents | Yes | How much a black and white page costs to print. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 80+ printers reviewers and found that 23 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for printers.
- Ryan Lim – Rtings, LinkedIn
- Lesley Robinson – TechGearLab, LinkedIn
- Ben Keough – Wirecutter, MuckRack, LinkedIn
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every printer review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Printers Test Data & Results
1. Print Speed, Black & White (PPM)
The primary job of a printer is to print out pages, and black & white print speed tests are just measurements of how long it takes a printer to produce pages that are purely black and white. The better a printer is at printing in black and white, the more pages it’s able to produce in a minute.
Print speed is largely a matter of convenience, so while we have a minimum speed we suggest (generally around 20 pages per minute) there’s no real downside to a printer being slower if you’re using it at home – you’ll just end up having to wait longer to finish printing out a document. However, printers in professional settings need to be snappy because they’re going to be used constantly, and the faster a printer is able to produce documents, the better.
Print Speed, B & W
> 20 ppm
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How fast a printer is able to produce black and white pages.
Units of Measurement: ppm (pages per minute)
Tools to Measure: A timer
Why It’s Important:
The point of a printer is to print – the less time you’re waiting for it to finish, the sooner you can get back to whatever you were doing.
Print Speed, Black & White (PPM; higher is better)
2. B&W Printing Costs (Cents per page)
B&W Printing Costs
< 7 cents per page
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How much its costs to print a single page in black and white.
Units of Measurement: cents per page
Tools to Measure: Calculator
Why It’s Important:
Lower costs per page means less money spent on ink in the long run.
Using your printer uses up ink, which means it costs money. Printing costs are usually measured as cost per print (or page) and are gauged by calculating how much each print costs by comparing the cost of an ink or toner cartridge to the total number of pages printed by the cartridge.
Print costs should ideally be as low as possible, with the greatest number of pages per cartridge being the obvious “goal” to aim for. Black ink, being the cheaper ink, means that black and white printing costs are usually lower on a per page basis. If you’re printing constantly, getting the cost as low as you can means you’ll be spending less on cartridges in the long run.
B&W Printing Costs (in cents per page; lower is better)
Best Printers with Cheap Ink: Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Expenses: A printer with a low upfront cost may have higher ongoing expenses for ink. Consider the total cost of ownership, including the price of replacement ink cartridges, over the printer’s lifespan to determine the most cost-effective option.
- Focusing Solely on Ink Price: While cheap ink is important, prioritize overall print quality and reliability. Low-cost ink cartridges may compromise on print quality or reliability, resulting in faded prints, smudging, or frequent cartridge replacements.
- Not Researching Compatible Ink Options: Some printers offer compatibility with third-party or generic ink cartridges, which can be significantly cheaper than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) cartridges. Research compatible ink options to find affordable alternatives without compromising on quality. When considering cost-effective printing solutions, comparing EcoTank vs cartridges is essential. EcoTanks, with their refillable ink tanks, provide a lower cost per page and reduce waste compared to traditional cartridge systems, making them a compelling option for high-volume users.
- Overlooking Page Yield: Consider the page yield of ink cartridges, which indicates the number of pages a cartridge can print before needing replacement. A higher page yield cartridge may offer better value for money, even if the upfront cost is slightly higher.
ADDITIONAL printer TIPS
Ensure your prints are accurate by troubleshooting printer color accuracy issues. Manage environmental impact with insights on waste toner cartridges and their disposal. Safely dispose of old equipment with our guide on how to dispose of a printer. Keep your wireless all-in-one printer running smoothly with tips on repairing wireless printing issues.
Find the best barcode printers for your business needs. Compare the features of thermal and laser printers to make an informed choice. Explore methods for faxing without a landline to enhance communication flexibility.
The Best Printers with Cheap Ink Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
B&W Print Speed
|
Color Print Speed
|
B&W Printing Cost (per page)
|
Color Printing Cost (per page)
|
Color Accuracy
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89 |
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|  $799.99 $850 $50 |
| 86 |
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| $697.00 $800 $103 |
84 |
|
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|  $598.99 $700 $101 | |
83 |
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| $319.99 $400 $80 | |
81 |
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| $199.99 $420 $220 |
