Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!
As a college student, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to print a lot of documents daily and that you’ll occasionally need to make several copies of your documents.
We’re sure your faculty’s printing services are very convenient, but having a printer at your disposal will save you a lot of time, money, and stress.
In this guide, we’ll review some of the best printers for college students that you can find on the market.
Now that we have taken a brief look at the specs of these printers, let’s explore the ins and outs of their features and practicality in day-to-day use.
1. Brother MFC-J4335DW – Best Overall Pick
The Brother MFC-J4335DW has everything a college student would want in a printer. For starters, it features an INKvestment technology, which is a substitute for normal ink cartridge systems.
So instead of having to replace the cartridges every so often, you can just refill them. What’s more, it comes with one year’s worth of ink right out of the box!
Moving on to the features, the MFC-J4335DW can print, scan, copy, and fax your documents without breaking a sweat. In addition, it’s capable of printing at speeds up to 20 ppm, making it one of the fastest inkjet printers out there.
You can also use the free Brother Mobile Connect App to manage your prints from your phone. In addition, this printer supports auto-duplexing, allowing you to print double-sided documents with the utmost ease.
At the front of the printer, you’ll find a wide control panel with a small LCD screen to preview prints, monitor ink status, adjust printing settings, and specify the number of copies you want.
The printer also has an automatic document feeder, so you can feed your documents and scan them with a few clicks of a button.
The cherry on top is that the MFC-J4335DW supports Wi-Fi, allowing for easy wireless printing from all of your mobile devices. Plus, it supports Wi-Fi Direct, which makes mobile printing even more accessible with a peer-to-peer connection.
Of course, you also get access to a basic USB interface along with Bluetooth connectivity. Unfortunately, however, there’s no ethernet port.
What We Like:
Print, scan, copy, and fax functions
Supports auto duplexing
Supports Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct
Low running costs
Fast print speed
Equipped with an automatic document feeder
What We Don’t Like:
Doesn’t support ethernet connectivity
Bottom Line
With its low running costs, versatile connectivity solutions, and various functions and features, the Brother MFC-J4335DW is easily the best printer for college printers, in our opinion.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-2760 – Runner-Up
The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 integrates a Super Tank system that allows you to save up on ink costs using the low-cost Epson Eco Fill bottles. Just use the bottles to refill the tank and wave goodbye to cartridge waste.
Another sweet thing about this printer is that it comes with 2 years’ worth of ink, so if you’re spending 3 to 4 years in college, you’ve already got yourself covered for at least half of your college years!
Moreover, the EcoTank ET-2760 supports voice commands using Google Assistant and Alexa, giving you more options to control your printer.
The connectivity solutions here include USB, Wi-Fi, and ethernet, so you can print from multiple devices using wired and wireless methods. There’s also a memory card slot, so you can print directly from an SD card.
Since this is an all-in-one model, you can use it to copy and scan your documents with the flatbed scanner. It’s also worth mentioning that the ET-2760 supports auto-duplexing, making double-sided printing a possibility.
As for print speed, this printer can print at a maximum speed of 10.5 ppm, which is quite acceptable for a printer at this price range.
There’s a color display along with a control panel that allows you to preview prints and adjust printing settings.
On the downside, this printer doesn’t have an automatic document feeder for easy scanning. Also, keep in mind that the input paper tray can only take 150 sheets at a time, so you’ll have to refill it multiple times per month.
What We Like:
Has print, scan, and copy functions
Low operating costs
Easy to refill
Supports Wi-Fi
Supports auto duplexing
Can be voice-controlled
What We Don’t Like:
Small input paper tray
No automatic document feeder
Bottom Line
The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 ticks many of the boxes you’ll need as a college student, and it’s not just because of the insane ink-cost saving. This printer can also print your documents wirelessly and supports double-sided printing. And voice controls significantly contribute to the overall user experience.
3. Brother HLL2390DW – Best Laser Pick
If you’re not a big fan of inkjet printers, you should consider checking out the Brother HLL2390DW.
This is a monochrome laser printer, so it can’t print in color. But for college use, it should be able to handle most of the tasks you throw at it.
The print quality is exceptional, thanks to the top-notch toner that comes with this printer. Moreover, the HLL2390DW supports auto-duplexing, so you can print on both sides of the paper and save on paper costs.
Moving on to the print speed, the HLL2390DW can print up to 32 documents in less than a minute, which is exceptionally fast compared to other printers!
The printer is also compatible with the Amazon Dash Replenishment service, so you never have to worry about running out of ink.
Another area where this printer shines is connectivity. It’s compatible with USB, NFC, and Wi-Fi. You can also use cloud printing services like Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria. However, it lacks an ethernet port.
What We Like:
Fast print speed
Features auto-duplexing
Supports cloud printing
Supports Wi-Fi and NFC
What We Don’t Like:
Can’t print in color
No ethernet port
Bottom Line
The Brother HLL2390DW is one of the best monochrome laser printers for college use, thanks to its fast print speed, top-notch print quality, and wide range of connectivity options.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-2720 – Best for Ink Saving
Similar to the previous EcoTank on this list, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is designed with ink saving in mind.
It integrates a refillable Super Tank that’s much more efficient than the standard ink cartridges. All you have to do is use the Epson EcoFill bottles to fill the slots at the front, and you’ll be good to go.
And it doesn’t just end there; the ET-2760 comes with 2 years of ink right out of the box. Additionally, it’s an all-in-one model, combining the functions of printing, scanning, and copying into one.
There’s also a small touchscreen display that you can use to preview prints and adjust the printer’s settings. Further, the Epson ET-2720 can print your documents at a speed of 10.5 ppm, which is above average for an inkjet printer.
As for connectivity, this printer supports USB and Wi-Fi. The cherry on top is that the ET-2720 can be voice-controlled with the Alexa virtual assistant.
However, the ET-2720 doesn’t support automatic double-sided printing, it doesn’t have an automatic document feeder, and there’s no ethernet port.
What We Like:
Efficient ink consumption
Supports Wi-Fi
Has a touchscreen control panel
Supports Alexa’s voice controls
Has print, copy, and scan functions
What We Don’t Like:
No automatic document feeder
Doesn’t support auto-duplexing
No ethernet port
Bottom Line
With its versatile functions, wireless printing, and easy controls, the Epson EcoTank ET-2760 leaves little to be desired. Voice controls are a nice touch to have, too.
5. HP DeskJet 2755 – Best Budget Pick
The HP DeskJet 2755 aims to deliver a well-rounded printing experience without breaking the bank.
It also features a compact design that you won’t struggle to fit on the desk in your dorm room, no matter how small it is. And with the HP Smart App, you can combine, schedule, and monitor all tasks from your phone.
The printer is equipped with an intuitive LCD screen that displays information about the printer settings and the ink status. It’s also worth pointing out that it’s equipped with a flatbed scanner so you can scan and copy your documents.
As for connectivity solutions, the DeskJet 2755 supports printing over USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. And the dual-band Wi-Fi has a self-reset function that ensures a consistent and reliable connection.
On another high note, the printer is also eligible for the HP Instant Ink service, ensuring a continuous supply of ink delivered to your dorm at discounted prices.
The cons? Well, we would’ve preferred if the input tray was a bit bigger, as it can only take 60 sheets at a time. Also, this printer is considered a bit slow since its maximum print speed is 6.5 ppm.
What We Like:
Compact
HP Smart App for easy task scheduling
Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset
Has an LCD screen
Eligible for the HP Instant Ink service
What We Don’t Like:
Small paper tray
Slow print speed
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly inkjet printer for college use, look no further than the HP DeskJet 2755. It can print over Wi-Fi, won’t take up much space on your desk, and you’ll never run out of ink because the Instant ink service will have you covered.
How to Pick the Best Printer for College Students
Choosing a printer for college isn’t as straightforward as simply picking a specific brand and choosing a model within your budget. Rather, there are various factors that you need to take into consideration when shopping for a printer.
Inkjet vs. Laser
Many college students face the dilemma of whether they should get an inkjet or laser printer.
Both types have pros and cons; inkjet printers are cheaper to buy, and many can print in color. However, the ink costs can be high, and the print quality may not be consistent in cheaper inkjet models.
On the other hand, laser printers are much faster and produce better print quality with sharp text and top-notch consistency. However, they’re generally more expensive than inkjet printers, but they make up for that by having lower operating costs.
Functionality
Printers come in two types: all-in-ones and printer-only models. All-in-one printers can be more convenient as they allow you to scan, copy, and fax your documents without having to buy a dedicated machine for each of these functions.
On the other hand, Printer-only models can only print, but they’re often more compact and affordable than all-in-one printers. They’re also easier to maintain.
As a college student, you’d probably need to make copies of your documents and maybe scan some files. So an all-in-one would probably be the best choice, but it all depends on your preference.
Ease of Use
College students barely have time to study for tests and write assignments. So a printer that’s too complex to use would just be a no-go.
Printers with touchscreens are usually easier to use and control. They also let you preview your prints, so they’d probably be a better choice.
Print Speed
Since college students are always in a rush, a fast printer is always preferable. For example, if you’re late for class and need to print an assignment as quickly as possible; it’d be frustrating to wait for ages for the printer to spit out the document, wouldn’t it?
To avoid that, try getting a printer with a print speed of 10 ppm at the very least.
Media Handling
Printers that come with large paper trays with a capacity for 200+ sheets at once are preferable since you won’t have to load up the tray with paper frequently.
Some printers also have specialty trays for envelopes and stickers, which can be handy.
Running Costs
You don’t want to get a printer that would cost you a fortune to keep running. But, even if a printer has a low price tag, don’t hesitate to research its cartridge cost and ink consumption.
You might spend multiples of the printer’s price on ink cartridges within a year or two of owning it, so keep that in mind before making a purchase.
Some printers are compatible with ink replenishment services like Amazon Dash Replenishment and HP Instant Ink. These services provide you with a continuous supply of ink at discounted prices.
Also, keep in mind that not all printers use replaceable cartridges. Some models utilize ink tanks, and they’re often cheaper to run.
Connectivity
Connectivity solutions make it easier for you to print from multiple devices without having to be stuck with a single cable. The standard interfaces for most printers are USB and ethernet.
However, many printers now have Wi-Fi connectivity too. Some models also support Wi-Fi Direct technology that lets you print wirelessly even if there’s no internet connection available. And having an SD card slot would be a plus, too.
Extra Features
Some printers have auto-duplexing, a feature that lets you automatically print double-sided documents, which can be pretty handy at college, and it’ll cut your paper costs in half.
Another feature to look for is the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), as it makes for easier scanning of multiple documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a College Student Need a Printer?
The short answer is yes! Even if there are printing services on campus, you don’t know when you might need to print or make a copy of an urgent assignment at 1 AM.
Is Printing at Home Cheaper for Students?
Yes. Even though creating a printing setup at home can be an investment, it’ll always be cheaper than paying for the printers on campus. The average cost of an ink cartridge is $30-$40, while a single print using the faculty’s resources would cost you around 7 cents. If you do the math, you’ll find out that printing on your own is more economical in the long term.
Final Verdict
To sum up, the Brother MFC-J4335DW seems like a pretty solid pick for most college students. It’s cost-effective to run, has a flatbed scanner with an automatic document feeder, and is capable of double-sided printing, making it the best printer for college students.
On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 2755 would be your best bet if you’re on a tight budget, and it supports wireless printing and works with HP Instant Ink.
Finally, you might consider going for the Brother HLL2390DW if you prefer laser printers and don’t need to print color documents.
