Affordable printers that won't break the bank, according to Stiftung Warentest
This printer offers a reliable performance during product trials
Buying a new printer? You're in luck! With prices ranging from 50 to 500 euros, there's a wealth of options to choose from. But which one's the best fit? It depends on factors like how often you print, the type of printing (text, photos, color, black and white), and how eco-friendly you want your device to be.
Stiftung Warentest can help sort through the chaos. Their tests take into account quality, functionality, printing costs, and environmental impact.
Spending more could save you in the long run
Printer prices can vary widely, and the question of whether an expensive device is worth it or a cheaper model is better comes down to how often you print and for what. If you only print occasionally, a less expensive printer with higher printing costs could be a better choice. However, an expensive device with lower printing costs may pay for itself quickly if you print frequently.
Specialists vs. multifunction printers
Most printers on the market are multifunction devices that can also scan and copy. If you don't need these extras, you might save a few bucks with a print specialist, but the price difference between specialists and versatile price-performance winners isn't significant.
Stiftung Warentest has made it easy to compare and select from over 213 printers. Their test list includes 28 devices with good overall ratings, starting at around 190 euros and going up to about 560 euros.
Inkjet printers
Canon Maxify GX6550, a top multifunctional inkjet printer, impressed Stiftung Warentest with a quality rating of 1.9. It boasts excellent print, scan, and copy capabilities, as well as good environmental properties. However, it typically sells for 525 euros, though it can often be found for less than 450. Regular use will help offset the initial cost due to its low printing costs.
Another standout, the Epson Ecotank ET-4850, earned the same overall score. It's significantly cheaper at around 380 euros and offers the best photo printing in the test field. It's compact and easy to handle, making it a fantastic choice for home use.
For those who don't need the copy function, Epson Ecotank ET-2860, priced around 180 euros, is a budget-friendly alternative. Several similar models, like the ET-2864 and 2865, received the same overall rating. Pricing can vary, so it's best to check the bestseller list for the cheapest option.
Single-function printers
If you're looking for a simple but reliable single-function printer, the Canon MAXIFY GX5550, with a quality rating of 1.9, is a great option. It excels in printing and has low ink costs. The main advantage over multifunction devices is its smaller footprint for around 370 euros.
For occasional printing, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b, available for around 120 euros, is a solid choice. While it isn't perfect, it delivers satisfactory results, low ink costs, and decent eco-friendliness.
The best color multifunction laser printer barely achieved a good quality rating with an overall score of 2.5. The Canon i-Sensys MF657Cdw printed and copied well, but its copying properties and toner costs were only rated as satisfactory. Its environmental performance was also subpar. It's hard to find for under 400 euros.
If you only need to print, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP633Cdw is your best bet, with an overall score of 2.3. However, toner costs and environmental performance were only rated as satisfactory. With a bit of luck, it can be found for less than 300 euros.
Black and white printers are a good bargain
Generally, black and white laser printers are the more affordable choice. The Canon i-Sensys MF264dw II, a top multifunctional black and white printer, received a quality rating of 2.2. It excelled in printing, copying, and scanning, while remaining economical for around 330 euros.
The best black and white print specialist, Canon i-SENSYS LBP246dw, is available for just under 230 euros. It earned an overall score of 2.0 and excelled in all areas.
If you print infrequently, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP122dw, though rated only as satisfactory for its environmental properties and toner costs, might be worth considering. Its affordable price of around 175 euros and top print results in its category make it an attractive option.
[1] Stiftung Warentest[2] Home Office[3] Technology Tests[4] ntv.de[5] kwe
- Stiftung Warentest
- Home Office
- Technology Tests
- The Canon Maxify GX6550, a top-rated multifunction inkjet printer, is equally affordable, with prices typically around 4690, making it a great choice for those seeking both quality and economical technology.
- Vocational training can be a valuable resource for people seeking to advance their skills, such as learning how to use gadgets like printers effectively. The community can aid in this process by providing resources and opportunities for training.
- For those who don't need the copy function, Epson Ecotank ET-2860, priced around 4690 euros, offers a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive multifunction printers. This device received a good overall rating, making it a suitable choice for those looking for vocational training in the field of technology.
- If you only need to print in black and white, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP122dw is a satisfactory choice for home use, and with a price of around 1750, it's an affordable option that won't break the bank, providing a good entry point for vocational training in printer usage.
