If you’re out of pages on your checkbook or you don’t have one, there’s no need to worry because you can just print one at home! Printing checks is completely legal, and this is very easy, too, as long as you have a good printer for printing checks.
To make sure you get the right printer for printing your checks yourself, this article has made a comprehensive list for a narrower search. You’ll be sure to find the best printer for checks in this printer for checks review.
Anyway, there are tons of printers in the market you can choose from, but not all of them have what it takes to print checks. Checks need to have high-quality print, and they are also printed on a special type of paper.
Just read on to know more!
Why a Dedicated Check Printer Is Essential for Printing Checks
Whether you’re thinking of printing stickers or checks, a dedicated printer is very essential, especially if you own a business where you frequently need a constant supply of checks. Check printers also have features that ordinary printers don’t.
These features include standard security systems that will keep both your personal and bank details away from the wrong hands. The printer you use for your checks should also have software compatibility with certain programs that are responsible for the format and layout of the checks you’ll be printing.
And a printer that’s specialized for checks also has the proper toner cartridge, which is recognized by banks to make sure your check is valid.
10 Best Printer for Checks Review
These 10 printers are some of the top-notch printers for printing checks you’ll ever find in the market. You won’t go wrong in choosing either of these.
1. Epson TM-H6000III Multistation
Starting off this list is the TM-H6000III manufactured by Epson. There’s a reason why Epson printers are so well-known and well-liked, and it’s their great print quality and efficiency. This product is no different, it has a great set of features that will come in handy when printing all the checks you need.
The design of this device is very compact, which makes it easier to fit anywhere you want, you can also carry it around without much trouble. Not only that, but it’s also built with the necessary durability so it can last mechanical wear and tear from frequent usage. This is sure to last you long.
To make sure you know when to perform maintenance operations on the printer, you can refer to the maintenance counters, which keeps a record of all the printer’s usage.
Despite being a small printer, this prints at a much faster rate compared to its other competitors. It is capable of printing up to 63 lines per second (lps). This makes sure that you’ll get your checks the instant that you need them.
Being fast doesn’t mean it compromises the quality of the print. It prints with great clarity, and you can also use it to print high resolution graphics on your checks or logos to introduce your brand to customers and new clients.
Another great factor about this printer is its reliability. It’s less prone to paper jams thanks to its unique printing mechanism. 2 print heads that allow you to print on both sides of the check if you prefer without the need to flip them manually.
Other features it has are native support for barcodes and a drop-in paper load. It also supports both OPoS and JPos for easier upgrading. So, printing multiple documents on the POS terminal makes it the top printer it is. This printer will be the perfect tool not only for checks but also for thermal receipts.
Pros
- Fast print speed
- Auto-duplex printing
- Prints checks and thermal checks
- Good resolution
- User-friendly
Cons
- Slower than some competitors
2. TM-H6000IV 2CLR
This next printer is also from Epson’s long line of great check printers. The TM-H6000IV is full of great features that will make printing your checks a breeze while upholding their necessary quality.
You can use this printer to print checks, but it’s not limited to that because you can also use it as a receipt printer. It’s a great printer to have for your business for more convenient and faster transactions.
Even when you work in a busy environment where you need a steady supply of checks, this printer will be to cope because of its fast printing speed that will make sure you have your checks on time. Even though it prints at a fast pace, it makes sure that the quality isn’t compromised.
All your checks are sure to be crystal clear thanks to this printer’s high resolution. When you decide to put graphics and logos on your checks, it won’t be a problem either. It also has an optimum slip handling feature for added reliability.
Aside from printing fast checks, it can also print receipts at an equally fast pace. It is capable of printing thermal receipts at an impressive speed than reaches up to 300mm per second.
The printer is fairly easy to use, all the buttons you’re going to need in its operation are all easily accessible. This compact printer is one of the fastest in the market while also being one of the most reliable. It’s sure to be a good investment for your business.
Pros
- Very fast check printing speed
- Prints thermal receipts at 300mm per second
- Easy to use
- Produces high-resolution outputs
- Has a slip handling feature
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to others
3. VersaCheck HP Deskjet
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A good printer doesn’t always have to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable printers out there that can offer the same level of quality as the more expensive ones, and the VersaCheck from HP is one of them. This has a unique set of features that will come in handy for your business or your personal needs.
The size of the printer is pretty compact, so you don’t have to compromise too much with your work area. But don’t be deceived by its size because this is one of the best printers for checks in the market.
You can use this to print checks so you won’t ever have to run out of them. Other than checks, you can also use it to print all your other saved or scanned documents regardless if they’re monochrome or colored ones. There’s no longer any need to look for anything else because this is an all-in-one package.
To print your checks, this uses a magnetic VersaInk. This makes sure that they are all valid. The printer also has its software known as VersaCheck Presto, which you can download to make sure all your checks are printer correctly without any downtime because of unforeseen errors.
This is a very versatile printer. It’s capable of printing on a wide variety of check papers like A4, B5, up to DL envelope. You can use it for your projects, and even to make your postcards and greeting cards.
It isn’t the fastest printer, but it has just enough speed for light to medium printing volumes. This can print at a speed of 7.5 pages per minute for colorless pages and 5.5 pages per minute for the colored ones. Using it is also easy, and it’s compatible with both Mac and Windows devices.
Pros
- Great for all documents and checks
- Prints on several paper sizes
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows devices
- Equipped with VersaInk and VersaCheck
- Compact size
Cons
- Not ideal for high volume printing
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4. NCR RealPOS 7167
In using this multi-station printer, you’ll be able to have a steady source of checks anytime you need them. The NCR Corporation is behind this printer, and they have been around for several years, which explains the level of expertise their products mirror with their features.
This is very ideal for printing checks and not only checks but also receipts and ticket slips. If you have a business, then you should think about getting this RealPOS 7167 because it’s both reliable and efficient. You can either choose to use it at home or at your office.
It has a fairly compact size, which doesn’t make it much of an eyesore; it won’t take up too much space either, so you don’t have to worry about clearing your desk just to make room for it.
When printing, it uses a method known as thermal transfer; this is much more reliable and has room for little error. You don’t need to have any technical knowledge to use this because this is very easy to use.
Printing won’t take too long thanks to its printing speed that reaches up to 52 lines per second. Graphics and logos may also be added to your receipts and checks whenever you prefer. The colors that you can utilize in printing are black and either red or blue.
If you don’t usually print colored receipts or checks, then you won’t have much use with a printer that has too many color options. Another feature it has is an internal memory with a size of 3MB, which you can use for storing soft copies of your graphics and also the firmware you’ll be using.
Overall, it’s going to prove to be a worthy investment.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Has a memory storage media
- Uses thermal transfer
- Good quality prints
- Compact and reliable
Cons
- Few color options
5. VersaCheck HP Deskjet 2655MX
HP is a very reliable brand when it comes to printers, so you’ll never go wrong with choosing one, especially the 2655MX from their VersaCheck printer series. You can expect nothing less but quality and reliability on every page that this printer prints.
Well, this device makes printing a lot simpler. It has user-friendly features, and it’s not just limited to printing. You can also use this to scan or copy all your important documents. It’s the perfect all-in-one device for both offices and small businesses.
To make it much more convenient when using it, it is designed with a control panel where you can find all of the settings of the printer. Not to mention, these can easily be adjusted, and that’s advantageous, especially if you’re not really that techy.
Much more, it also has an app that you can download and install on your phone. This app will allow you to print your files and photos directly from social media platforms. Setting this up will be a breeze, too, using the remote app.
When it comes to printing checks, you can make use of the printer’s software known as VersaCheck Presto, which you can download and use to check all of your checks as you print them. This will also make sure there will be no errors when you’re printing.
With VersaInk, your printed pages and checks will all have high quality. It also uses a magnetic black ink (MICR), which is specifically designed for printing bank complaint checks. To increase efficiency, it only uses 5% page coverage and can print up to 360 checks by using only 3 full pages.
All in all, it’s a convenient and efficient printer. It even has a wireless connectivity feature.
Pros
- Good print quality
- Can print, copy, and scan
- Efficient printing
- Has apps for printing on the go
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Printing can sometimes be fuzzy
6. Cognitive A776
Another printer that’s worth considering is the A776 by TPG Cognitive. This company specializes in manufacturing barcode and transaction printers. So there’s no doubt that this printer is also equipped with the same great quality all their other products have. But this one has some of its unique features.
Well, this printer is very versatile. You can use it to print checks, receipts, and event tickets. And even though it has a lot of functionality, it still comes in a very compact design, saving you more space on your desk.
The device also comes with a receipt printer, a slip printer, and an image or an MCR reader, which you can use if you prefer to have a quick ID check. It’s like 4 devices all rolled into one. There is also an RS-232 serial interface and a USB interface. You can use USB or serial interface along with wireless network capability.
You’ll be able to get your checks right on time because this has a fairly fast enough print speed. It can print checks at approximately 7.8 lines per second. Printing receipts is also just as fast.
Despite being fast, it doesn’t compromise the quality of the printed outputs. You can also choose to print your checks with a logo or a graphic that you prefer. There is a LogoEZ software that helps you to easily customize your receipts and checks with your company or business logos.
An auto-cutter adds to the reliability of the printer. It is capable of an impressive number of cuts. The auto-cutter is rated at 1.5 million cuts. This is sure to last you long and give you your money’s worth. It’s the best printer for checks, and it complies with the check 21 complaint.
Pros
- Easy receipt and check customization
- Great resolution
- Very easy to use
- Has a durable auto-cutter
- Affordable price
Cons
- Bulkier size than some check printers
7. FK184AA HP POS MICR
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This next printer is another one from HP, and it’s just as great as all its other printer. It has a lot of features that you’ll find handy, whether it’s for your business or your personal use. In this printer for checks review, this is one of the best printers for checks.
The FK184AA is a multi-functional printer which is great for printing checks, receipts, and ticket slips. It’s like two devices in one; it is a two-color thermal printer for your receipts and an impact slip printer for your forms and checks.
Even though it has several functions, it still maintains a compact structure. You’ll be able to save more space on your desk to make room for all your other supplies. The printer is also lightweight, so you can always transfer it to your desk or home anytime without much struggle.
It can handle a large 83mm paper roll for printing, and it prints at a fast pace too. Approximately it prints at a speed of 59 lines per second, which is just enough speed to accommodate all your printing needs. You’ll be able to have your checks whenever you need them.
When you print using two colors, it will take a little longer at 27 lines per second. Its resolution reaches up to 203 dpi giving you much clearer outputs. You can also add your logos and graphics for a more customized look for your checks and receipts.
A Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is used to enhance the quality of its prints. You will be sure to find this printer very handy and convenient to use. Setting it up can easily be done by yourself. The MICR inks are readily available in the market and you can have any MICR format checks with this MICR ink. And the federal reserve won’t mind.
Pros
- Convenient to use and set up
- Uses Magnetic Ink Character Recognition
- Design to be more compact
- Great resolution
- Has MICR
Cons
- Slower colored print speed
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8. Troy Printer
This printer from Troy Group has proven to be worthy of a spot on this list with its versatility and high-quality printing. Printing characters with good graphics is above all the features. It also has features that make it very easy to use. Troy group has produced tons of great printers for checks, and this one stands out from the rest of them.
With its printing speed that reaches up to 30 pages in a single minute, it’s a great solution for all your light to medium check printing needs. It will be a great addition to your business or your office. You can even choose to use it at home for your personal use.
Printing checks isn’t the only thing that this printer is capable of because you can also use it to print receipts. Using it is very convenient, and if you want to print on both sides of your check, you won’t have to flip them manually thanks to this printer’s built-in two side printing feature. All the printers that print two sided documents fail in front of its laser quality text.
Its paper tray holds up to 250 sheets, so you don’t have to trouble yourself with frequently refilling them. For hands-free operation, there is an Automatic Document Feeder, this way, you can do more tasks while waiting for your checks to finish printing. The auto document feeder makes this specialized printer a multifunctional printer.
Aside from great user convenience, the print resolution doesn’t fall short of quality either. This prints at a resolution reaching up to 1200×1200 dpi, your checks will surely be clear.
There is a wide variety of connectivity features that you can use for printing. It gives you the option to print wirelessly, which is perfect for when you’re constantly on the go. Looking at all its features, you’ll be sure to get the best value for what you’ll be paying for.
Pros
- Good resolution
- Has high paper tray capacity
- Equipped with an Automatic Document Feeder
- Can print on both sides automatically
- Has wireless connectivity options
Cons
- Not capable of printing colored graphics
9. Laserjet M402N MICR
If you are looking for an efficient, energy-savvy printer for printing your checks, then you should grab this item. This bundle consists of a LaserJet printer and a preinstalled renewable toner cartridge, which can give you the productivity you need if you are looking to use this printer for your business. A normal toner cartridge can go all your financial transactions and normal documents for years.
The printer included is a monochrome printer capable of printing on both sides of the sheet (duplexing). It can print average to high-quality outputs that can give your checks the appearance of being high-value.
In terms of print speed, this printer can be considered as one of the beasts and makes you finish your workload while doing it with your eyes shut.
And this unit can print at an average speed of 40 pages per minute (ppm). Indeed, this unit is a great investment if you are looking for a printer that can maximize your productivity at the least possible consumed time.
Paper-handling capability is also promising in this unit. It has a 250-sheet drawer, a 100-sheet multipurpose tray, and a duplexer. Also, you can install an additional drawer that can handle a total of 550-sheet into it.
With all this, this printer has a capacity of 900-sheet, which, when partnered with its enormous speed, can surely make the print jobs a piece of cake for your business. This check printing capacity can be earned with every toner cartridges compatible with the high performance printer.
This bundle also comes with a renewable cartridge. It is a high-quality magnetic toner that can print an estimated number of 3,100 standard pages. So if you try to print checks with this unit, you can yield a total quantity of 9,300 checks if you are going to print 3 pieces per page.
Pros
- Automatic duplex print feature
- High paper handling capacity
- Wide range of connection interface
- High-speed printing
- Has high-quality magnetic toner
Cons
- Average photo printing quality
10. MTI LaserJet Pro M402n
Last but not the least on this list is this printer bundle that is a perfect match for you if you are looking for the best printer for checks that are currently available in the market. With its fast print speed, this unit can sure take your business to another level of productivity and efficiency.
A distinct feature of this printer is its high-speed performance. It can print sheets of up to A4 in size within an average of 40 pages per minute (ppm). So if you are looking for a dedicated printer to print your voluminous checks, then this might be the go-to printer.
And this bundle comes with a high-quality magnetic toner for check printing. The cartridge can yield 3,100 pages at 5% coverage, so if you are going to use this for check printing, you can get an average sum of 9,300 checks.
Together with the printer’s high-speed capability, it is a great investment if you are frequently using the unit for your business. In terms of its paper handling capability, this printer can handle a maximum number of 900 sheets.
Originally, this unit comes in two paper trays, a 250 sheet tray, and a 100-sheet multipurpose tray. However, this unit is capable of an additional 550-sheet tray extension, which makes it a good unit to invest if you are looking forward to a lot of print jobs per day. These multiple trays are something that you see in a large printer that save time a lot.
The printer also has a wide range of connection interfaces. These include a Hi-Speed USB 2.0, a Host USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet.
This unit is also capable of connecting through your mobile device via Wireless direct printing, NFC touch-to-print, and various mobile applications such as HP ePrint, Apple AirPrint, and Google Cloud Print 2.0. Among all these wireless connectivity features, I personally like google cloud print the most.
Pros
- High-speed printing
- Easy mobile printing options
- Wide variety of connection
- Auto duplex printing feature
- Capable of an additional 550-sheet tray
Cons
- No significant disadvantage
What to Look for before Buying
If you’re looking forward to buying the best printer for checks in the market, then you’re going to look at certain factors that a printer needs to have. These factors include software compatibility, security features, ink quality, and many more.
Not all printers on the market are capable of giving good quality outputs. To make sure that you won’t be wasting your money on a printer that isn’t fit for the task, here are things that you should look for before purchasing a dedicated check printer.
Ink Quality
Whether you’re printing avery labels or checks, the ink that your printer uses plays an essential role in its overall print quality. For printing checks, a standard magnetic black ink or a MICR toner is usually used to create those professional MICR fonts. This type of ink complies with bank standards and ensure that the checks you’ll be printing are valid.
Resolution
The resolution of a printer is usually measured in dots per inch. This value refers to how clear the outputs of your printers are. A higher resolution means a clearer print, so it’s always best to check this detail before deciding to buy a printer. This is usually indicated on the printer specification.
Print Speed
Whether you’re printing cricuts or checks, speed is important – especially if you’re working in a busy financial environment where checks are needed constantly. Print speeds are usually measured either in pages per minute or in lines per second. If you’ll be using your printer to print checks of high volumes, then a high print speed is essential.
A check printer for personal use won’t have to be too fast but just enough to accommodate light to medium printing loads.
Connectivity Features
Some printers have features that allow wireless check printing process, which is very helpful, especially when you’re constantly on the go. This feature can also allow you to print documents directly from your social media and cloud services online accounts.
With wireless file printing, you can eliminate the need for carrying around a USB or needing to use wires which tend to tangle.
User-Friendliness
Convenience is an important factor also. Many printers have different features to make printing a breeze. Some printers have an Automatic Document Feeder for hands-free use, and this can also help you in multi-tasking. Other printers even have an automatic duplex printing feature.
An app is also very helpful. Some printers have these, and you can just install them on your phone for easier use.
Functionality
Check printers don’t just have to be printers. Some come with other functionalities. Some printers can also be used to print and scan your files. Other printers are a receipt printer and a slip printer in one. There are even built-in MCR readers for some.
All these functions are very useful and can come in handy when printing checks. Some also have security features to help you avoid being a victim of fraudulent acts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the best printers for checks:
1. What are the benefits of thermal printing?
Thermal printing is a form of digital printing which is the best printer for checks. And it is usually used because it is cheaper and faster.
2. Can a check printer print regular documents?
This will depend on the printer model, some check printers are not compatible with certain paper sizes that most documents usually require. When printing regular documents, make sure to use a regular toner instead of the MICR ink.
3. Is it legal to print checks at home?
Printing checks at home is legal. But in doing so, make sure to use standard check paper, which has security features and check printing software. Also, be sure to use inks that are approved by banks like the MICR.
4. What if I use regular paper for printing checks?
These printed checks will not be valid and will not be accepted by establishments and banks.
5. What resolution do I need for a printer?
When printing checks, it’s best to have a higher resolution; something around 1200×1200 dpi will be enough.
Final Words
All the printers in this article are sure to be great choices. But before choosing one, make sure to keep in mind your needs so you’ll be sure to pick the best printer for checks.