It was not that long ago when ebooks, laptops, and tablets have been a trend. We do not have to print often, as everything can be accessed through a soft copy. Since we are now in an era where a greener environment is vital, paperless is always a good idea.
In this article, we are going to discuss some of the best printers for infrequent use. We will learn about their details and features so that you can pick the best choice suitable for you.
So, without further ado, let us go right into it!
Best Printer for Occasional Use
Given the many choices out there, it can be challenging to find the right printer for your personal use. In this section, you’ll find some of the excellent products for sale. Let’s delve further!
1. Canon PIXMA TR4520
Let me start with Canon’s TR4520 that is highly rated by users due to its compact design. Although small, it stands up against bulkier models as it is applicable for several uses, including faxing, scanning, and printing.
After setting up this printer completely, you can download the Canon Print App into your mobile device and just press the wireless connect button. With that, you can print without having to attach wires. You can even scan and print your photos from different clouds. May it be from Google Chrome, Instagram, or Facebook. So, it can be an alternative for the best photo booth printer.
Due to its IFTTT support, you can definitely save yourself from the hassle and wasted time; that is because this model allows you to use different applications and web services. For sure, automated printing will bring a lot of convenience to you.
Perhaps, the best feature of this product is its Dash Replenishment that can help in saving ink for up to 10 percent. That is true to any ink reorders that you use. The moment you activate your printer, it will automatically measure the ink levels, and it will place a smart reorder if you are running out of ink.
The brand guarantees that this model is easy and simple to use because it has integrated a lot of excellent features into this model, including AirPrint and Mopria print service. It also has a built-in ADF as well as Wi-Fi. Aside from that, this model will automatically turn on and off.
Although it has a bit slow print speed, it can produce quality prints. The texts are very crisp, the photos are vibrant, and the graphical outputs are great as well.
Pros
- Its compact size can save more desk space
- Produces high-quality prints
- Saves more ink
- Supports wireless connectivity
- Fast and easy to set up
Cons
- A bit slow printing process
2. HP OfficeJet 3830
The HP inkjet printer can be used for different applications, including faxing, scanning, copying, and wireless printing. This is one of the best printers that is preferred by infrequent users due to its outstanding features.
It is convenient to use this model because it facilitates mobile and air printing. You can easily set up and get connected by simply using your PC, tablet, or smartphone. Now you don’t need to access a network to start printing. Instead, just connect your mobile devices directly into your printer.
On top of that, you can scan on the go and manage your printing tasks with the help of the HP all-in-One remote mobile app. This smart app will also let you set up your device easily. With this, you can scan through your phone, print form the cloud, and order toner.
You can now attain affordable printing at home because these original HP ink cartridges are built to be high yield. As such, you can print up to two times more pages. All those prints are of high quality. Indeed, this all-in-one model is something that you can rely on.
In addition to this, you can fax, copy, and scan multipage documents quickly because it also features an automatic document feeder that can handle 35 pages. With that being said, you can complete your tasks without wasting more time waiting for it to be done.
Aside from that, you can access a variety of coloring pages, coupons, recipes, and more through the HP printables. With its compact design, it can surely fit on a shelf, on your desk, or anywhere you intend to place it. As such, you can save more space.
Pros
- Minimal noise
- Compact design
- Supports AirPrint
- Saves more time and space
- Produces high-quality prints
Cons
- Might have alignment issues
3. CANON PIXMA iX6820
Even if you are not using your printer frequently, you still need to have a decent printer for whatever printing needs that you might have. This Pixma iX6820 from Canon is an ideal printer for your office or home.
It features 5 individual ink tanks that allow you to replace the color that runs out only, unlike other models that you need to replace all of them. This also helps in achieving high-quality prints since it can provide amazing colors.
Canon engineers designed this model in such a way that it will be able to accommodate Google Cloud printing. It will definitely bring convenience to you as you are allowed to print from the Google Chrome browser of your device.
Plus, it is compatible with whatever operating system that your device has – may it be Linux, Windows, or Mac. With that being said, you will be able to print wherever you are by simply using the applications that you already use most of the days. Thus, mac users can breath a sigh of relief, as their portable scanners for Apple devices just got its perfect companion.
There is no need for drivers because you can now print effortlessly without wirings attached. It also features an Ethernet. Basically, it is a wired LAN interface that will allow you to connect to an office or home network. Aside from Google Cloud and AirPrint, this model also makes use of PPS or Pixma Printing Solutions.
For added convenience on the part of the users, it also has an “auto power on” feature that automatically turns on the printer if you send a document or photo to be printed. This will save you from the hassle of getting close to it and press the button itself, especially when you are doing your work.
Pros
- Can be operated in a quiet mode
- Facilitates wireless printing
- Produces full HD prints
- Comes with downloadable templates
- Features 5 high-performance individual ink tanks
Cons
- Requires Google account to operate wirelessly
4. HP Laserjet Pro M29w
The LaserJet Pro M29w of HP is a fast speed printer that will help you get things done faster. It can keep up with your pace and helps you get your business moving forward as it provides high-quality prints.
It features embedded security that is considered as the best since it will instantly display threat notifications. Aside from that, it also features an optional pull or pin printing that helps in protecting your laser printer against attacks. Much more, it secures the safety of any sensitive data that you have.
You can finish your task faster because its input tray can accommodate 250 sheets. The first page has a fast out time which is why you can surely stay productive. Furthermore, it will allow you to print up to 40 pages every minute.
Another feature that this model brags about is its built-in Ethernet that allows you to share the network’s resources. With this, you can easily access your files and print. On top of that, this model has a compact size that is why you can make the most of the desk space in your office.
This model is engineered with the environment in mind that makes it highly energy efficient. Through this enhanced feature, you can save up to 18 percent of energy as compared to other models. Apart from that, the manufacturer also uses some technologies that can help in minimizing paper waste.
If you use this, you can surely avoid the inconveniences of reprints. That is due to its toner cartridges that also prevents wasting supplies. However, don’t compare this printer with the best laser printer for foiling because that’s whole another category.
Pros
- Features auto on or off technology
- Strong security detects and prevents attacks
- 250-sheet input tray
- Energy efficient
- Supports Ethernet networking
Cons
- A bit hard to install
- Does not allow Wi-Fi printing
5. HP OfficeJet Pro 8025
If you want to upgrade your office, then this OfficeJet Pro 8025 from HP is the perfect addition to it. But this is also good to have at home for your printing, scanning, and faxing needs.
You can definitely get your work done due to the incredible printing rate of this device. For every minute, you can print documents of up to 20 pages. That being said, you can increase your productivity.
Much more, this small device will let you organize your documents up to 50 percent faster. That is because you can eliminate the steps of repetitive tasks and sync them to Google Drive, QuickBooks, and more with the use of Smart Tasks. This is the easiest way to organize and digitize business documents.
You may get your free HP 910 ink for two months if you enroll in HP Instant Ink as you set up your printer. Good news, you can have it delivered to your home. But of course, this is optional only. And, of course, you can always go for the best remanufactured ink cartridges.
Other than that, you can print remotely with the help of the HP Smart app. It will let you access your scanner and printer to monitor its ink levels as well as scan, copy, and print on the go. This app is really highly rated by buyers due to the convenience that it can offer.
Another feature that this product boasts of is its self-healing Wi-Fi that helps in ensuring your connectivity as well as in detecting issues. It also undergoes the three-stage reconnecting process automatically in cases of disconnections. It is safe to say that the Wi-Fi of this model is reliable and stable.
Pros
- Sustainable design
- Features built-in security essentials
- Allows remote printing
- Stable and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity
- Increases your productivity
Cons
- The colors of the prints are a bit fuzzy
6. Brother HL-L2350DW
Here is the Brother compact laser printer that is perfect for those that have a small workspace. It is appropriate to use this in your office or homes. Plus, it will certainly fit in your budget.
For each minute, you can print a maximum of 32 pages. The paper capacity of this model is amounting to 250 sheets. Aside from that, it also features a duplex printing with a maximum of 15,000-page duty cycle and a recommended print volume of up to 2,000 pages per month.
Meaning to say, you can benefit from its high-quality printouts with minimal time to spend on refilling the paper tray. This can print both on legal and letter page sizes. In addition to this, you can wirelessly send your printing commands through your tablet, smartphone, or laptop.
You can also produce twice the volume of the standard outputs at a lower cost due to its high yield replacement ink cartridges. However, this Brother compact laser printer can print in black only.
Nonetheless, if you opt for this model, you can definitely print more at a lesser time. With that being said, you won’t have to wait long for your printouts. That is because this is designed with increased efficiency in mind.
The dynamic features of this model can undoubtedly accommodate your changing printing needs. On top of that, you can be efficient and productive.
Pros
- Features wireless printing options
- Automatic duplex printing feature
- High yield replacement cartridges
- Handles legal and letter paper sizes
- 15,000-page duty cycle
Cons
- Prints in black color only
7. Canon PIXMA TS6220
Now let me introduce to you another model from the brand – Canon. This all-in-one printer consists of five individual ink cartridges. It can produce quality outputs, may it be on prints or scans.
I think the best thing about this product that brings its selling point at its peak is its incredible speed. The TS6220 can print photos or images faster as compared to other devices on this list.
Yes, it can copy and scan documents at an excellent rate, but it does not mean that it compromises the quality of reproduced images. Instead, it produces sharp outputs that you can compare with the outputs of laser printers. Even documents with small font sizes are produced with incredibly crisp texts.
Another important feature of this model is its LCD touchscreen situated on the control panel that can be easily navigated. That is because you can fold it out up to 45 degrees. It also allows duplex printing that provides you with multiple options for borderless printing and copying.
This device is also highly recommended because of its simple installation and ease of use. You can access a lot of features because Canon has an array of software for computers and mobile phones.
However great a model is, it still tends to have some pitfalls that you might find disturbing and inconvenient. For one thing, this model has quite a high running cost for each print.
Also, this device does not have an automatic document feeder causing lags. Worse, it sometimes becomes totally unresponsive. But no worries since it can be fixed quickly by simply rebooting your printer.
All in all, the device is inexpensive, yet it has a lot of high-end features. And because the cartridges can be replaced individually, it is perfect for infrequent use of high-quality printing.
Pros
- Impressive printing, copying, and scanning speed
- Ease to use
- Simple setup
- Produces crisp texts and sharp images
Cons
- Lacks automatic document feeder
- High running cost per print
8. Canon TS5120
Featuring another model from Canon. This all-in-one printer is made to handle any printing needs. You can definitely use this all-around printer to produce quality prints.
For instance, you can use this to print concert tickets, forms, documents, and many more. You can even use this to print high-quality borderless photos. This can also be used for copying, faxing, and scanning.
You will also benefit from the simplicity and convenience of this device since you can easily connect your phone or tablet to print your documents. Much more, it supports air printing that allows you to access and print memories from your social media, Bluetooth, and cloud storage.
Its built-in scanner will let you copy and scan your important documents quickly right through your smartphone with the help of the Canon Print App. Now, you can enjoy the ease of photo and document printing from your home.
Aside from that, it also features an auto power on and off that is very helpful and convenient for all users. Through this amazing feature, the printer will automatically power up whenever you send in the documents to be printed.
Not only that, but its built-in Pixma and Wi-Fi will also make your printing experience quick and easy. On top of that, it has a compact size, so it is a guarantee that you can save more space. As they say, this model has the right size and the right features that every user needs.
Pros
- Automatically turns on and off
- Compact and simple design
- Used for printing, copying, and scanning
- Supports AirPrint
- Can be operated remotely through the Canon Print App
Cons
- Plastic material might be brittle
9. Epson EcoTank ET-2720
Given the fact that you won’t be using your printer frequently, the Epson ET-2720 is absolutely a decent choice for you. It can provide you with quality prints.
This all-in-one and wireless printer can deliver a cartridge-free printing because it features supersized ink tanks. Its included ink set can last up to two years of infrequent printing. The same is true if the time comes that you will purchase a replacement ink set.
Each ink bottle set contains sufficient ink to produce up to 4,500 pages of printouts. That figure is almost equal to the output of 80 individual cartridges. As such, you will be able to save up to 90% of ink with low replacements costs as compared to ink cartridges.
That also means that there will be low wastage of both inks and papers if you utilize this amazing model. Aside from that, you can easily fill each color of these supersized ink tanks because it has an exclusive and uniquely keyed EcoFit bottle.
But it doesn’t end there, this sleek model also renders convenient wireless printing. You can access and operate this effortlessly using your smartphones, iPhone, iPad, and tablets. This is compatible with several operating systems, including Windows 7, 8, 10 as well as Mac OS. It also includes Wi-Fi Direct.
Indeed, this model is good for average users. It offers both value and convenience. However, there is a possibility that your printer will be damaged if you use inks that are not formulated by Epson, so be careful with that. But at the end of the day, it is still up to you if you will take that risk.
Pros
- Relatively easy to set up
- Its ink bottles are supersized
- A great choice for average users
- Ink bottles are easy to fill
- Minimizes wastage
Cons
- Non-Epson inks might damage it
10. Lexmark C3224dw
Now, let us complete the list with this model from Lexmark. C3224dw is a combination of value and functionality. It is a model that small workgroups need because its compact design can fit anywhere.
You will surely love the lightweight design that makes it easier for you to set it up with ease. Much more, you can easily move it from one place to another, pretty much like the best wand scanners. This color laser printer also comes with a 25-page tray capacity and a single-sheet feeder.
In addition, you can easily and quickly set it up without wires. That is because it is designed in such a way that you’ll just have to print from your phone through Wi-Fi Connection. Aside from that, there is also a built-in Ethernet network and USB port available.
This feature helps in securing the mobile-device support. Much more, you can use the mobile print app of Lexmark for Google Cloud printing and AirPrint. Rest assured, this model is secure to use because it includes full-spectrum security that keeps the information safe.
I also love the fact that this model is made to be environmental-friendly. The toner cartridge of this model can be recycled; that is why it has been certified by EPEAT Silver and Energy Star certification.
It does not only save the planet but also saves your budget. Apart from that, the standard two-sided printing helps you in saving paper. The color of the print is something that you can rely on. The unique Unison of toner can produce vibrant and rich colors of images and crisp texts.
Furthermore, the toner can yield up to 1500 pages that allow you to print more with less downtime.
Pros
- Produces rich and vibrant colors
- Easy to change the cartridge
- Secure and reliable to use
- Supports wireless printing
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Expensive toner replacement
Best Printer for Infrequent Use: What to Consider Before Buying One?
There are many printers available in the market, ranging from edible printing systems to 3D printers. And you will surely be amazed by it. So to help you, we are going to discuss the factors that you should consider when picking the best printer for infrequent use.
Types of Printer
There are two types of printer that you can choose. Namely, they are inkjet and laser type. Even though they have their specific functions, there is still a significant difference between them.
Laser Type
These types of printers are expensive since they are high-tech. They often use toner cartridges to make shelf-quality images and good printouts. The best thing about this type is that the ink does not dry up even if you do not use it frequently. It is a good detail because you won’t be pushed to buy new ink.
Inkjet Type
This type is less expensive than the previous one. But unlike the laser type, the ink dries up if it is not used regularly. It will cost you a lot in the long run if you often buy cartridges. That is why you better be meticulous in this sensitive matter to not have disappointments in the future.
But if you look at the price of laser printers today, they are indeed coming down at a very reasonable rate. They now come at competitive price points, like the inkjet type. So, if you want a printer for infrequent use, then laser printers are the ones for you.
Black and White or Colored
Since you are looking for a printer, you are also sure of the type of document you’ll be printing. That is why you have to choose between a B&W (monochrome) or a colored one.
Monochrome printers are the type of printer that has a black and white output. The advantage of these is that it gives you a distinct and crisp black and white printout.
On the other hand, a colored printer will offer you many colors for every output. Colored photos that have well-saturated and vivid outcomes will be the finished product. But as for the downside, you have to pay more for this option.
Image Quality
We surely would want to have a clear image printout as the output. Since pictures are well treasured by most, it is a good thing that you’d have a nice image to keep for a long time. It will be a sort of paused action of great moments, so it better to have excellent quality.
You have to make sure that you can have a printer that gives out a fair printing resolution. Because if you have low quality, the details of the picture are also not very visible. And that is not a pleasant thing for a printer’s output.
Dealing with Paper
Even if you want a printer for infrequent use, it should also have an excellent holding capacity for the paper. If you are using it in your office, it is a good thing because the printer will just be loaded with sheets for a fast print.
Additionally, the type of paper also matters because it should be compatible with your printer. By that, you can decide what’s the right printer you should get. For example, check printers require specific quality papers.
If you usually deal with an A4 paper, then a regular printer will work just fine. But if you use a larger document, then a large printer is also what you need.
Versatility
You have come up with a decision to buy a printer so the functions of it should fit your needs. As an example, if you are doing an office task, then you are frequently using the copy, fax, and the scan feature. They are the most basic functions that you would need while working in the office.
All-in-one printers will surely provide you lots of benefits. So, if it is in your budget, then you should go for it for a more significant advantage. However, if you need it at home, then a typical printer will not cost you too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much electricity does a printer use?
For commercial printers that are on standby, it usually eats up 30 to 50 watts. But if you are printing, it takes up 300 to 500 watts.
As for the inkjet printers, it only uses 30 to 50 watts, which is already the print rate. And in standby mode, only 3 to 5 watts are needed.
2. What does DPI mean in the resolution?
DPI is an acronym given for Dots Per Inch. It is the number of ink dots that a printer gives per square inch of the paper.
3. What type of ink is waterproof, and doesn’t fade quickly?
If you want a waterproof one, then pigmented inks are the ones that you should buy. It can also efficiently resist UV light. More so, it can last for 200 years, which is undoubtedly a very long time.
4. Is it good to choose an all-in-one printer?
Of course! As long as your allocated budget is enough for this type. It is undoubtedly very beneficial because it offers you many functions that typical printers can’t give you.
5. Is an inkjet printer worth it?
Alongside the fact that this printer is lower in price, it also uses less electricity. So as for me, it is truly worth it. But if you want a more techy type, then choose laser type. The only problem with this type is that it is expensive.
Conclusion
Choosing the best printer for infrequent use may cause you a little confusion. It is because when we weigh it in terms of money and output, you will be torn. We do hope that this article has been a great help to what you will pick.
Good luck!