Best Printers for College Students in 2024
Despite the digital age, college students still need to print frequently. From term papers and assignments to lecture notes and research materials, a reliable printer can be a student’s best friend. But with limited space in dorms and tight budgets, finding the right printer can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll explore the best printers for college students, focusing on compact designs, affordable options, and essential features that cater to student needs.
Why should college students have their own printer?
- Convenience: Print anytime without relying on library or campus facilities
- Cost-effective: Save money on per-page printing fees in the long run
- Time-saving: No more rushing to print centers before deadlines
- Privacy: Print sensitive documents without worry
Key features for student printers
- Compact size: Ideal for small dorm rooms or shared living spaces
- Wireless connectivity: Easy printing from laptops, tablets, and smartphones
- Affordable ink or toner options: Low running costs for budget-conscious students
- All-in-one functionality: Print, scan, and copy capabilities for versatility
Top 5 printers for college students
HP DeskJet 4155e All-in-One Printer
The HP DeskJet 4155e is an excellent choice for college students seeking an affordable, compact all-in-one printer. This versatile device offers printing, scanning, and copying capabilities, making it perfect for various academic tasks. Its small footprint is ideal for tight dorm spaces, while wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from multiple devices.
- Print speed up to 8.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- 35-page automatic document feeder
- Mobile printing capability
- Optional HP+ for 6 months of Instant Ink
The DeskJet 4155e’s automatic document feeder is a standout feature, allowing students to quickly scan or copy multi-page documents. With HP+, students can enjoy 6 months of free Instant Ink, helping to keep printing costs low throughout the semester.
HP ENVY Inspire 7255e All-in-One Printer
For students who need high-quality photo printing alongside document capabilities, the HP ENVY Inspire 7255e is an excellent choice. This all-in-one printer delivers exceptional print quality for both text and images, making it perfect for creative projects and presentations.
- Print speed up to 15 ppm black, 10 ppm color
- Two-sided printing
- 2.7" color touchscreen
- Mobile and cloud printing
The ENVY Inspire 7255e’s intuitive touchscreen interface makes it easy to navigate print settings and functions. Its two-sided printing feature helps students save on paper costs, while mobile and cloud printing options offer flexibility for printing from various devices and locations.
HP Smart Tank 5101 All-in-One Printer
For students looking to minimize long-term printing costs, the HP Smart Tank 5101 is an excellent investment. This printer uses a refillable ink tank system, dramatically reducing the cost per page compared to traditional cartridge-based printers.
- Print speed up to 12 ppm black, 5 ppm color
- Up to 6,000 black pages or 8,000 color pages per ink set
- Spill-free, easy-access ink tanks
- Mobile and cloud printing
The Smart Tank 5101’s high-capacity ink tanks mean students can print thousands of pages before needing to refill, making it ideal for those with heavy printing needs. Its easy-to-use refill system and mobile printing capabilities add convenience for busy college life.
HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw Wireless Printer
For students primarily printing text documents and needing fast, high-volume printing, the HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw is an excellent monochrome laser printer option. Its compact design fits well in small spaces while delivering professional-quality prints quickly.
- Print speed up to 40 ppm
- Automatic two-sided printing
- 250-sheet input tray
- First page out in as fast as 6.9 seconds
The LaserJet Pro 3001dw’s fast print speeds and large paper capacity make it perfect for students who frequently print long research papers or multiple assignments. Its energy-efficient design and low running costs make it an economical choice for long-term use.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e All-in-One Printer
For students who need a more robust printing solution, perhaps for a shared apartment or those in design-heavy majors, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e offers advanced features in a relatively compact package.
- Print speed up to 22 ppm black, 18 ppm color
- 35-page auto document feeder
- 250-sheet input tray
- Self-healing Wi-Fi
The OfficeJet Pro 9015e’s fast print speeds and large paper capacity make it suitable for students with high-volume printing needs. Its self-healing Wi-Fi ensures a stable connection, while the robust mobile printing options allow for easy printing from various devices.
FAQs
What’s the difference between inkjet and laser printers for students?
Inkjet printers are generally better for color printing and photos, while laser printers excel at fast, high-volume black and white printing. For most students, an inkjet all-in-one printer offers the best balance of features and affordability.
How important is wireless printing for college students?
Wireless printing is highly beneficial for students, allowing them to print from laptops, tablets, and smartphones without needing to connect cables. This flexibility is especially useful in dorm rooms or shared living spaces.
Are tank printers worth the investment for college students?
Tank printers like the HP Smart Tank series can be an excellent investment for students who print frequently. While they have a higher upfront cost, their extremely low cost per page can lead to significant savings over time.
What’s the best way for students to save money on ink or toner?
Consider enrolling in an ink subscription service like HP Instant Ink, which can provide significant savings. Additionally, using draft mode for non-final prints and opting for black and white when color isn’t necessary can help reduce ink usage.
Can I use my college printer to print photos?
Yes, many all-in-one inkjet printers, like the HP ENVY Inspire series, are capable of printing high-quality photos. However, for the best results, use photo paper and adjust your printer settings accordingly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right printer can significantly impact a student’s academic life, saving time, money, and stress. Whether you prioritize compact size, low running costs, or advanced features, there’s an HP printer to suit your needs. Remember to consider factors like print volume, color requirements, and available space when making your decision.
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