You’ve just found that perfect school project or a crucial document you need to print, and your old printer decides it’s time for a vacation. Suddenly, the quest for a replacement begins, and the thought of shelling out hundreds of dollars is far from ideal. We’ve all been there, staring at overwhelming tech aisles or endless online listings, wondering where to even start without breaking the bank. Finding a reliable printer that won’t cost a fortune is a common modern dilemma, especially when you need quality output for everyday tasks.
That’s exactly why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of affordable printing. We understand that you’re looking for value, functionality, and perhaps even a bit of surprise in what you can get without spending a lot. So, whether it’s for home, office, or that important creative project, we’re diving deep into the market to uncover the best printers under 70 that deliver on their promises, making your printing needs a little less stressful and a lot more budget-friendly.
Before moving into the review of the best printers under 70, let’s check out some of the relevant products from Amazon:
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Your Wallet-Friendly Printing Pal
Remember the days when buying a printer felt like taking out a small loan? Thankfully, those days are largely behind us, especially if you’re looking for dependable printing power without breaking the bank. We’ve all been there – needing to print a boarding pass, a school assignment, or maybe even a few photos, only to realize your old printer has finally given up the ghost. The good news is, there are some fantastic options out there that offer solid performance and features without demanding a king’s ransom.
In fact, the market for budget-friendly printers has exploded in recent years. Manufacturers are keenly aware that many of us are prioritizing value and essential functionality over bells and whistles. This means you can often find printers that handle everyday tasks with surprising efficiency and print quality, all while staying well within a $70 budget. It’s not about settling for less; it’s about smartly choosing the right tool for your specific needs, whether that’s crisp document printing or vibrant color output.
So, how do you navigate this landscape to find the absolute best printers under 70? It often boils down to understanding what truly matters to you. Are you printing hundreds of pages a month for a home office, or just a handful for occasional use? Do you need wireless connectivity for printing from your phone, or is a simple USB connection all you require? By focusing on these core needs, you can make an informed decision and snag a printer that’s a perfect fit, proving that good printing doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
This guide is designed to be your friendly companion on that quest. We’ll explore the key features to look for, common pitfalls to avoid, and ultimately, highlight some of the top contenders in the sub-$70 category. Get ready to discover how you can achieve great results and keep your important documents flowing without emptying your pockets. Let’s dive in and find your next reliable printing partner!
Best Printers Under 70 – Reviews
HP DeskJet 3755 All-in-One Printer
For those seeking a budget-friendly printer that punches above its weight, the HP DeskJet 3755 is a fantastic contender. This compact all-in-one is surprisingly feature-rich for its price point, offering scanning and copying capabilities alongside its printing function. Its small footprint makes it an excellent choice for cramped spaces, and the wireless connectivity means it can be easily shared among devices. Plus, the modern design isn’t an eyesore, which is a welcome bonus in the world of affordable printers.
This little printer really shines with its ease of use. Setting it up is a breeze, and the accompanying HP Smart app makes printing from smartphones and tablets incredibly straightforward. While it might not win any speed races, the print quality is perfectly adequate for everyday documents, homework, and casual photos. If you need a reliable, no-fuss printer that won’t break the bank and offers decent functionality, the HP DeskJet 3755 is definitely worth a look.
Canon PIXMA TS3320 Wireless Inkjet All-In-One Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS3320 is another gem in the sub-$70 category, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a capable all-in-one. This printer handles printing, scanning, and copying, all housed within a sleek and modern design. It’s a fantastic option for home offices or students who need a versatile device without a hefty price tag. The wireless capabilities are a major plus, allowing for convenient printing from various devices.
What sets the Canon PIXMA TS3320 apart is its user-friendly interface and the quality of its prints, especially for text documents. While photo printing might be a bit basic, it’s more than sufficient for casual snapshots. The setup process is generally smooth, and the printer itself feels well-built for its price. For a reliable workhorse that delivers good results and offers the convenience of wireless printing, the TS3320 is a strong contender.
Epson Expression Home XP-2100
The Epson Expression Home XP-2100 offers a compelling package for anyone needing a compact and capable printer. This all-in-one unit handles printing, scanning, and copying, making it a versatile addition to any home or small office. Its incredibly small size means it won’t dominate your desk space, and the stylish design is a nice touch. Wireless printing is also a key feature, allowing for easy connection to laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Despite its budget-friendly nature, the XP-2100 delivers surprisingly good print quality for everyday tasks. Text is sharp and clear, and color prints are vibrant enough for casual use. Setup is usually a hassle-free experience, and the printer is generally quiet during operation. If you’re looking for a space-saving, reliable all-in-one printer that won’t strain your wallet and provides decent performance, the Epson Expression Home XP-2100 is a solid choice.
Brother HL-L2350DW Monochrome Laser Printer
For those who primarily need to print black and white documents, the Brother HL-L2350DW is an absolute powerhouse in the sub-$70 range. This monochrome laser printer is built for speed and efficiency, churning out crisp, professional-looking text documents with impressive speed. Laser technology means no more smudged ink, and the duplex (two-sided) printing capability is a fantastic bonus for saving paper.
The HL-L2350DW’s true strength lies in its reliability and the cost-effectiveness of its toner. While the initial purchase price is low, the toner cartridges tend to last longer than those in inkjet printers, making it a more economical choice for higher print volumes. The wireless connectivity is also a major plus, allowing for easy sharing. If your printing needs are mainly text-based and you value speed, reliability, and long-term savings, this Brother printer is a standout.
HP DeskJet 3752 All-in-One Printer
The HP DeskJet 3752 is another excellent option if you’re on the hunt for a printer under $70 that doesn’t compromise on functionality. This all-in-one printer is incredibly compact, making it ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or any situation where space is a premium. It reliably handles printing, scanning, and copying, offering a well-rounded solution for your basic document needs. The wireless connectivity adds a layer of convenience, allowing for easy printing from all your devices.
This printer is designed with simplicity in mind, and its setup process is typically very straightforward. The HP Smart app makes managing print jobs from your phone or tablet a breeze. While it’s not the fastest printer on the market, the print quality is perfectly acceptable for everyday documents, schoolwork, and even casual photos. If you need a compact, affordable, and user-friendly printer with wireless capabilities, the HP DeskJet 3752 is definitely worth considering.
Budget-Friendly Printing Power: Why Under $70 Makes Sense
Let’s face it, sometimes you just need to print something without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a school project, a recipe, or those important boarding passes for your vacation, having a reliable printer at home is incredibly convenient. But the thought of shelling out hundreds of dollars for a high-end machine can be daunting. That’s where printers under $70 come into play. They offer a fantastic solution for everyday printing needs, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great results.
Imagine this: your child has a last-minute assignment due tomorrow, and the printer ink cartridge in your old, expensive machine is completely dried out. Or perhaps you’re planning a party and need to print out invitations, only to find your current printer is acting up again. These are the moments where a budget-friendly printer under $70 shines. They provide the essential functionality you need at a moment’s notice, saving you the stress and potential late fees associated with relying solely on print shops or shared devices.
The beauty of these more affordable printers lies in their practicality. Many models under $70 are surprisingly capable, offering decent print quality for documents, photos, and even the occasional flyer. They are perfect for students who need to print essays and study guides, home offices managing simple administrative tasks, or families wanting to print cherished photos from their phones. Plus, the lower upfront cost means you can replace them if needed without a significant financial hit, ensuring you always have a working printing solution.
Ultimately, buying a printer under $70 is a smart, pragmatic choice for many. It’s about having the power to print what you need, when you need it, without the financial burden. These printers represent accessible technology that empowers you to stay productive, creative, and organized in your daily life, all while keeping your budget firmly in check.
Understanding Printer Technologies for Budget Buyers
When looking for printers under $70, it’s crucial to understand the core technologies available, as they significantly impact performance, cost of ownership, and suitability for different tasks. The two primary technologies you’ll encounter are inkjet and monochrome laser printers.
Inkjet printers are generally more affordable upfront and excel at producing color prints, making them ideal for home users who print photos, creative projects, or the occasional color document. They work by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto the paper. However, the cost of replacement ink cartridges can add up quickly, and print speeds are often slower compared to laser printers.
Monochrome laser printers, on the other hand, focus solely on black and white printing. While they won’t handle color, they are typically faster and more cost-effective for printing text-heavy documents, reports, and essays in the long run. Toner, used in laser printers, is generally more efficient than ink, meaning each toner cartridge can produce more pages, leading to a lower cost per page.
Key Features to Prioritize in Affordable Printers
Even with a tight budget, certain features can dramatically improve your printing experience and ensure you’re getting the most value for your money. Don’t overlook the essentials when comparing models under $70.
Connectivity options are paramount. Most budget printers will offer USB connectivity, but Wi-Fi capability is a significant advantage, allowing you to print wirelessly from your computer, smartphone, or tablet without being tethered to a cable. This is especially useful in shared home or small office environments.
Print resolution and speed, while often lower on budget models, still warrant consideration. A higher resolution generally means sharper text and more detailed images. Similarly, a faster print speed (measured in pages per minute, or PPM) can save you time, especially if you have multiple documents to print.
Inkjet vs. Laser: Which is Right for You on a Budget?
The decision between an inkjet and a monochrome laser printer often boils down to your primary printing needs and long-term cost considerations, particularly when shopping in the sub-$70 price range.
If your printing tasks are primarily visual – think school projects with color diagrams, occasional photo printing, or crafting projects – an inkjet printer is likely your best bet. The upfront cost is typically lower, and the ability to produce vibrant color prints is a significant advantage. Be mindful of ink costs, however, and look for models that offer high-yield cartridges or subscribe to an ink delivery service if available.
Conversely, if your printing revolves around text-based documents, reports, letters, or anything requiring crisp black and white output, a monochrome laser printer offers superior efficiency and lower running costs. The initial investment might be slightly higher for a laser printer, but the toner cartridges will last significantly longer, reducing the per-page cost and saving you money over time. They also tend to be faster for text printing.
Maximizing Value: Tips for Ink and Toner Management
Purchasing a printer under $70 is just the first step; managing the ongoing costs of ink or toner is crucial for keeping your printing budget in check. There are several strategies you can employ to get the most out of your consumables.
Always check the page yield of ink or toner cartridges before making a purchase. Higher page yield cartridges, while potentially having a higher upfront cost, will typically offer a lower cost per page. Look for “XL” or “high-yield” options if your printer supports them.
Consider compatible or remanufactured cartridges. These third-party options can offer significant savings compared to original manufacturer cartridges. However, it’s important to purchase from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and avoid potential printer damage. Always check your printer’s warranty to see if using non-OEM cartridges will void it.
Finally, print smarter. Utilize draft mode for non-essential documents, print double-sided (duplex printing) whenever possible to conserve paper and ink, and consolidate your printing tasks to minimize the number of times your printer needs to warm up, which can consume a small amount of ink or toner.
Your Friendly Guide to Finding the Best Printers Under 70
Hey there! So, you’re on the hunt for a new printer, but your wallet’s feeling a little… light? Totally get it! Printing needs can pop up unexpectedly, whether it’s for school projects, important documents, or even just those fun vacation photos. The good news is, you don’t have to break the bank to get a decent printer. We’re going to dive deep and explore the world of the best printers under 70, helping you navigate the options and land on a device that’s perfect for your needs without costing an arm and a leg. Think of me as your printing pal, here to make this whole process a breeze.
Inkjet vs. Laser: The Big Decision
When you’re looking at printers under 70, you’ll primarily be faced with a choice between inkjet and laser technologies. Inkjet printers are the most common in this price range, and they work by spraying tiny droplets of liquid ink onto the paper. They’re fantastic for vibrant color photos and graphics, making them a popular choice for home users who want to print family pictures or colorful presentations. The initial cost of inkjet printers is usually lower, which is a big plus when you’re sticking to a budget.
On the other hand, laser printers use toner, a powder that’s fused onto the paper with heat. While you’re unlikely to find a new laser printer for under 70, some older or refurbished models might sneak into this price bracket. Laser printers are renowned for their speed and crisp text quality, making them ideal for high-volume document printing, like reports and essays. If your primary need is black and white text, and you print a lot, a laser printer, if you can find one in your budget, might be a more cost-effective long-term solution due to the toner’s longevity. However, for most people seeking the best printers under 70, an inkjet will be the more accessible and versatile option.
Color vs. Black and White: What Do You *Really* Need?
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth thinking about your printing habits before you commit. Do you regularly print photos, school projects that require color diagrams, or flyers for a local event? If so, a color printer is a non-negotiable. Most inkjets in the under 70 category will offer color printing capabilities. These often use a combination of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow cartridges to produce a wide spectrum of colors. Be aware that color printing, especially high-quality photo printing, can consume ink faster.
If, however, your printing needs are primarily limited to text documents, black and white reports, or perhaps a few simple black and white graphics, a monochrome (black and white) printer might be a more economical choice. You’ll often find that monochrome printers are even more affordable than their color counterparts, and the cost of replacement ink or toner will be significantly lower. For students who need to print essays or professionals who only need to print standard business documents, a black and white printer can be a smart way to save money while still getting excellent print quality. This is a key consideration when searching for the best printers under 70.
All-in-One vs. Single Function: Do You Need More Than Just Printing?
The concept of an “all-in-one” (or AIO) printer is a game-changer, especially when you’re on a tight budget. These multi-functional devices typically combine printing, scanning, and copying capabilities into a single unit. For a small home office or a student’s dorm room, having these three functions in one compact machine can save you a significant amount of desk space and, of course, money compared to buying separate devices. The convenience of being able to quickly scan a document or make a photocopy without needing another appliance is a huge benefit.
If your printing needs are purely for putting ink on paper, and you already have a scanner or don’t foresee needing one, a single-function printer might be all you require. These printers focus solely on the printing task. Generally, single-function printers can be even cheaper than their AIO counterparts, allowing you to get a very basic printer for an even lower price. However, in the sub-70 dollar range, you’ll find that most of the truly best printers under 70 that offer good features will lean towards the all-in-one variety, giving you more bang for your buck.
Connectivity Options: How Will You Connect?
In today’s connected world, how your printer connects to your devices is crucial. For printers under 70, you’ll most commonly find USB connectivity. This is a straightforward, wired connection that works by plugging a USB cable directly from the printer to your computer. It’s reliable and universally compatible with most computers, making it a solid choice if you only plan on printing from a single desktop or laptop. You won’t need to worry about network configurations or Wi-Fi passwords with a USB connection.
However, many printers in this price range now also offer Wi-Fi connectivity. This is a huge advantage, allowing you to print wirelessly from multiple devices – laptops, tablets, and even smartphones – without being tethered by cables. This is incredibly convenient for households with several users or for those who prefer the flexibility of printing from anywhere in their home or office. When looking for the best printers under 70, prioritize models with Wi-Fi if you anticipate needing this wireless freedom, as it significantly enhances the user experience and accessibility.
Print Quality and Speed: What’s the Trade-off?
When you’re looking at printers under 70, it’s important to manage your expectations regarding print quality and speed. For inkjet printers in this price bracket, you can generally expect decent quality for everyday documents and graphics. Colors might not be as vibrant or accurate as higher-end models, and photo prints might have a slightly less sharp finish, but they’ll certainly be more than acceptable for most home and student use. Don’t expect professional-grade photo lab quality, but for school papers and casual photos, they’ll do the job.
Print speed is also a factor to consider. Printers under 70 are typically not speed demons. They will print pages at a slower rate compared to more expensive machines. For black and white text, speeds can range from around 10 to 20 pages per minute (ppm), while color printing will naturally be slower. If you’re printing large documents regularly, you might notice the difference. However, for occasional printing, the speed is usually not a major issue. When choosing the best printers under 70, balance your need for crisp output with a realistic understanding of the speeds offered.
Ink Costs: The Ongoing Expense
This is probably the most significant factor to consider when buying any printer, especially budget models. While the initial price of the printer might be low, the cost of replacement ink cartridges can add up very quickly and often exceeds the cost of the printer itself over time. It’s crucial to research the cost of ink cartridges for any model you’re considering. Some printers use separate cartridges for each color (black, cyan, magenta, yellow), which can be more economical because you only replace the color that runs out.
Other printers use a combined color cartridge. If one color within that cartridge runs out, you have to replace the entire unit, even if the other colors are still full. This can be a hidden cost that catches many buyers off guard. When searching for the best printers under 70, look for printers that are known for having reasonably priced ink or that offer high-yield ink cartridge options. Some brands also have ink tank systems, though these are less common in the sub-70 dollar range, they are worth investigating if your budget can stretch slightly or if you find a particularly good deal.
Brand Reputation and Reliability: Who Can You Trust?
When you’re investing in a new piece of technology, even on a budget, it’s wise to consider the reputation of the brand behind it. Well-known brands often have a history of producing reliable printers and offer better customer support and warranty options. Think about brands like HP, Canon, and Epson, which have been in the printer game for a long time and are generally trusted for their product quality in various price points. Even within the under 70 dollar category, these brands usually offer solid options.
While you might find some lesser-known brands offering incredibly low prices, it’s important to do a bit of research. Read reviews from other users who have purchased those models. Are there common complaints about connectivity issues, print quality, or how quickly the ink runs out? A slightly higher initial cost from a reputable brand can often save you frustration and money in the long run through better reliability and fewer technical hiccups. This is a key aspect of finding the best printers under 70 that won’t leave you regretting your purchase.
FAQ
What kind of printing can I expect from printers under $70?
You might be surprised by what these budget-friendly printers can do! While you won’t find industrial-grade machines for this price, you can absolutely get reliable printing for everyday tasks like documents, homework, and even casual photos. Most printers in this range are inkjet, meaning they use liquid ink cartridges. They’re perfect for home offices, students, or anyone who needs to print occasionally without breaking the bank.
Think of these printers as your go-to for crisp text documents and reasonably good color output. They’re not designed for professional photo labs, but they’ll definitely get the job done for your personal needs. Many also come with handy features like wireless connectivity, allowing you to print from your phone or tablet, which is a huge convenience for busy households.
Are these printers good for printing photos?
For casual photo printing, yes, many of these budget-friendly printers can produce decent results. If you’re printing photos to put in a scrapbook, send to relatives, or just for fun, they’ll likely be perfectly adequate. The quality will be good enough for everyday viewing and sharing, especially when using photo paper.
However, if you’re a serious photographer looking for gallery-quality prints with incredibly accurate color reproduction and extreme detail, you might find these printers a bit limiting. Professional photo printers often have more ink cartridges (like separate black, cyan, magenta, yellow, and sometimes even lighter shades) and specialized technology to achieve that ultra-high-end finish. But for the vast majority of home users, these printers will handle your photo needs just fine.
What’s the deal with ink costs? Is it expensive to run these printers?
That’s a really common and important question! The initial price of a printer is often just the beginning, and ink costs can definitely add up. For printers under $70, you’ll typically find that they use standard-sized ink cartridges. While the upfront cost of these cartridges might seem manageable, the cost per page can be higher than in more expensive, high-yield printers.
It’s a good idea to check the estimated page yield for both black and color cartridges before you buy. Some manufacturers also offer “starter” cartridges with your printer, which usually contain less ink than a full-sized cartridge. So, while the printer itself is a great deal, factor in the ongoing cost of replacing ink when making your decision, especially if you print a lot.
Do I need a printer with Wi-Fi if I’m only printing from one computer?
While you technically don’t need Wi-Fi if you’re only printing from one computer and have a USB cable handy, having wireless connectivity is a game-changer for convenience. It means you don’t have to physically connect your computer to the printer every single time you want to print. Plus, most modern printers, even budget ones, are designed with wireless in mind, so you might find it’s standard.
Think about it: if you want to print something from your laptop, or maybe a family member wants to print from their tablet or phone, Wi-Fi makes it incredibly easy. No more hunting for cables or worrying about compatibility. It really streamlines the whole printing process and makes it accessible from anywhere in your home.
What’s the difference between inkjet and laser printers in this price range?
In the under $70 bracket, you’ll overwhelmingly find inkjet printers. These use liquid ink sprayed onto the paper, making them versatile for both text and color graphics or photos. They’re generally more affordable upfront and offer better color capabilities for the price.
Laser printers, on the other hand, use toner powder and are typically known for faster black-and-white text printing and lower cost per page for high-volume text. However, affordable color laser printers are usually well above the $70 mark, and even black-and-white laser printers might be slightly over budget or offer fewer features than a comparable inkjet at this price point. For most home users looking for a versatile, affordable printer, inkjet is the way to go in this category.
How important are features like scanning and copying on these budget printers?
That’s a great question, and it really depends on your needs! Many printers under $70 are actually “all-in-one” or “multifunction” devices, meaning they include scanning and copying capabilities along with printing. This can be incredibly useful if you need to digitize documents, make copies of important papers, or even scan a drawing your child made.
Having these extra functions built into one device saves you space and money compared to buying a separate scanner and copier. Even if you don’t think you’ll use them often, having them available can be a handy bonus. Just be aware that the scanning and copying quality might not be as high-end as dedicated machines, but for everyday tasks, they’re usually more than sufficient.
Will these printers be fast enough for my needs?
When we talk about “speed” with printers, it’s usually measured in pages per minute (PPM). For printers under $70, you’ll generally find that their PPM is on the lower side compared to more expensive models, especially for color printing. They’re perfectly adequate for printing a few pages of a document or a single-page report.
However, if you’re printing large documents, like a 50-page report, or running many copies consecutively, you might notice they take a bit longer. It’s not usually a deal-breaker for home or occasional office use, but if you’re in a high-volume environment where every second counts, you might want to consider investing a bit more for a faster machine. For typical everyday printing, though, they’ll get the job done without making you wait excessively.
Conclusion
Alright, armed with all this intel on the best printers under 70, you’re officially ready to conquer your printing needs without breaking the bank. Think about all the projects you’ve been putting off – those family photos yearning to be printed, the school reports that need that professional polish, or even just those recipes you want to have handy in the kitchen. This isn’t just about buying a gadget; it’s about unlocking a new level of productivity and creativity for your home. Go ahead, choose that perfect printer, and let the printing begin!
Don’t let the thought of finding the right device overwhelm you any longer. You’ve navigated the reviews, understood the key features, and now you’re standing at the precipice of a smart purchase. Imagine the satisfaction of clicking ‘print’ and knowing you made a savvy choice that will serve you well for ages. This is your moment to empower your workspace, your home, and your ideas with reliable, affordable printing. Get ready to experience the joy of bringing your digital world into tangible reality, one crisp page at a time.