How to Find a Good, Inexpensive Printer in 2025

In 2025, inexpensive printers are available as new entry-level inkjets, ink-tank models that lower per-page costs, and certified refurbished units sold by manufacturers and major retailers. Choose based on how much you print: inkjet or refurbished for light use, ink-tank for frequent color printing, and monochrome laser for heavy text workloads. Always compare total cost of ownership, check warranties for refurbished units, and shop sales and outlet channels.

Inexpensive printers still exist - you just need to know where to look

Buying a low-cost printer today means balancing upfront price, ink or toner costs, and reliability. New entry-level inkjet models remain the cheapest to buy. Longer-term, ink-tank (sometimes called refillable or "tank") printers and certified refurbished units often give the best value for home, student, and small-office use.

New options: inkjet and ink-tank printers

Basic inkjet printers are inexpensive because they use simpler mechanisms and smaller print engines. They're fine for occasional photo and document printing.

A growing category is ink-tank printers (marketed as EcoTank, MegaTank, or similar). They cost more up front than a basic inkjet, but they ship with large bottles of ink that lower the cost per page for frequent printing. Consider an ink-tank model if you print a lot of color or photos.

Laser printers still make sense for heavy black-and-white document work. Monochrome lasers usually cost more to buy but can be cheaper per page for high-volume text printing.

Refurbished and outlet units: another low-cost path

Certified refurbished printers are units returned to the manufacturer or retailer, inspected, repaired if needed, and resold. Many come with a limited warranty and perform like new. Retailers and marketplaces that sell renewed hardware include manufacturer outlets, Amazon Renewed, Best Buy Outlet, and certified refurbishers on eBay.

Refurbished models can be substantially cheaper than new ones, especially when retailers clear inventory or during sales events .

Where to look and what to check

• Shop sales: Prime Day, Black Friday, back-to-school promotions, and manufacturer deals.

• Read recent reviews and user feedback for reliability and ink costs.

• Compare total cost of ownership: initial price plus estimated ink/toner cost per page.

• If buying refurbished, confirm it's certified (manufacturer or trusted retailer) and check the warranty period and return policy.

• Inspect physical condition and request demo prints if buying locally.

Practical tips

For students and home users who print occasionally, a budget inkjet or discounted refurbished unit is usually the best buy. For frequent color printing, prioritize ink-tank models. For heavy monochrome document printing, a monochrome laser may save money over time.

Finding the best inexpensive printer takes a little research, but there are many good, low-cost options available both new and refurbished. Look beyond sticker price and focus on running costs and warranty coverage.

1. Verify typical discount ranges and examples for certified refurbished printers (30-70% or other typical figures) from major manufacturers and retailers.
2. Confirm common warranty durations and coverage for manufacturer-certified refurbished printers sold through Amazon Renewed, Best Buy Outlet, and manufacturer outlets.