a printer: should you go budget or premium?

Budget or premium: our honest analysis to choose a printer at the right price.

Should you spend 300 or 800? The truth is often in between. Here's what premium really brings, and what you can skip.

The budget option

Budget models now cover most needs: the quality gap with mid-range has shrunk dramatically in recent years. If your usage is occasional or standard, a good entry-level model is plenty.

The premium option

Premium is justified on three points: longevity (materials and build), daily comfort (features that change everyday life) and service (extended warranties). If you use it daily, these matter.

The models in our comparison

#1 — Epson EcoTank ET-2860Refillable tanks: 4,000 pages for ~$12 of ink.
Tank · WiFi · ~$300

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#2 — Brother HL-L2400DWFast B&W, auto duplex, ultra reliable.
Laser · 30 ppm · ~$150

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#3 — HP Smart Tank 7305Prints, scans, copies, faxes with economical ink.
4-in-1 · ADF · ~$350

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#4 — Canon PIXMA PRO-200Gallery-quality photo prints up to A3+.
A3+ · 8 colors · ~$490

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#5 — HP DeskJet 2820eSmall, connected, perfect for occasional needs.
WiFi · ~$65

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Our advice: pick the model that matches your actual usage. In our comparison, the best value remains our top pick.

What is the average lifespan?

Expect 5 to 10 years for a well-maintained model from a good brand. Wear parts and manufacturer warranty are the best longevity indicators.

Should I buy online or in store?

Both complement each other: try in store if possible, then compare prices online. Always check return conditions before buying.