Issue #144477 • 2025-12-21

Home & Office Printers: Inkjet vs Laser Explained hero background
Printer Comparison

Choose the Right Printer Today

Discover the differences between inkjet and laser printers for your needs

Content last updated 2025-12-21

Introduction

In today's digital world, selecting the right printer for your home or office is crucial. With the increasing demand for high-quality printing, understanding the differences between inkjet and laser printers can significantly impact your productivity and budget. Inkjet printers are known for their vibrant colours and ability to produce high-quality images, making them ideal for photo printing and creative projects. Conversely, laser printers excel in speed and efficiency, ideal for producing large volumes of text documents quickly and economically. This guide will provide insights into the key features, advantages, and considerations for each type, helping you make an informed choice tailored to your unique requirements. Whether you're a student, a small business owner, or simply need a reliable printer for personal use, recognizing these distinctions can lead to a more satisfying printing experience.

After thoroughly researching Amazon's marketplace, I've handpicked these standout options for your consideration.

Brother MFC-L2820DW
🚀 Best Premium ⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.5 out of 5 stars (9,447 reviews)
Brother MFC-L2820DW Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2820DW is a versatile multifunction printer that excels in delivering high-quality monochrome prints. Users appreciate its compact design and efficient performance, making it a staple for small offices and home use. With features like duplex printing and a handy mobile app, this printer is designed to enhance productivity without compromising on quality.

Performance and Features

The Brother MFC-L2820DW offers impressive performance with a maximum print speed of 34 pages per minute (ppm). It comes equipped with a 250-sheet capacity paper tray and a 50-page automatic document feeder, making it well-suited for high-volume printing tasks. The printer supports various connectivity options, including dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB, allowing seamless integration into any office setup. Additionally, the optional Brother Refresh subscription service provides convenience by ensuring toner is delivered right when needed, potentially saving up to 50% on toner costs.

User Experience

Users consistently praise the MFC-L2820DW for its user-friendly interface and straightforward setup. The Brother Mobile Connect app enhances usability by allowing remote printing and management of printer settings from smartphones. The printer's compact design is another plus, enabling it to fit comfortably in smaller workspaces without sacrificing performance. Overall, the MFC-L2820DW stands out for its reliability and cost-efficiency, making it a top choice for both home and small office environments.

What We Love
  • Compact and durable design
  • High print speed of 34 ppm
  • Versatile connectivity options
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Brother Refresh subscription for cost savings
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour printing capabilities
  • Higher initial cost compared to some inkjet models
  • Toner replacement can be more expensive in the long run

Brother DCP-L2640DW
🏆 Best Overall 🎯 Editor's Choice ⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.5 out of 5 stars (4,314 reviews)
Brother DCP-L2640DW Multifunction Monochrome Laser Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact and efficient monochrome multifunction printer ideal for small businesses. Its combination of print, scan, and copy functions, along with reliable performance, makes it a valuable addition to any office. Users enjoy its ease of connectivity and the option for a toner subscription that keeps supplies replenished effortlessly.

Efficiency and Functionality

The DCP-L2640DW delivers a commendable print speed of 36 ppm, making it suitable for busy offices needing quick output. It features a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-page automatic document feeder, streamlining multi-page tasks. The printer's connectivity options include dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB, allowing easy access from various devices. The optional Brother Refresh subscription ensures users never run out of toner unexpectedly, providing a hassle-free printing experience.

User-Centric Design

Users find the DCP-L2640DW easy to set up and operate, with a straightforward interface that simplifies navigation. Its compact footprint is perfect for limited desk space, while still offering robust capabilities for documents and forms. The printer's build quality and consistent performance have garnered positive feedback, establishing it as a reliable choice for small businesses aiming to enhance productivity.

What We Love
  • Fast print speeds of 36 ppm
  • Compact and space-saving design
  • Convenient mobile printing options
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Optional toner subscription for savings
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour printing
  • No touchscreen interface
  • May require occasional maintenance for optimal performance

HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e
👑 Iconic Prime

3.9 out of 5 stars (13,639 reviews)
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer with Instant Ink
The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e is a versatile all-in-one printer that caters to both home and office needs. Known for its vibrant colour printing and efficient performance, this printer is a reliable choice for those requiring both print and scanning capabilities. Users appreciate the Instant Ink subscription service, which simplifies ink management and ensures continuous printing.

Versatile Printing Options

This model offers a print speed of up to 20 ppm for black and 10 ppm for colour, making it a great option for diverse printing tasks. It features wireless connectivity, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets effortlessly. The 225-sheet input tray and 35-sheet automatic document feeder enhance productivity, enabling users to handle larger print jobs without frequent paper refills.

User-Friendly Features

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e comes with a user-friendly touchscreen interface, which simplifies navigation and access to various functions. It also supports HP's Instant Ink program, helping users manage their ink supply conveniently. However, some users report that while the print quality is generally high, it may not match the precision of dedicated photo printers for high-resolution images.

What We Love
  • All-in-one functionality
  • Convenient wireless printing
  • Instant Ink subscription available
  • User-friendly touchscreen
  • Suitable for home and small offices
The Trade-offs
  • Print speeds may be slower for colour
  • Requires internet connection for some features
  • Higher ink costs compared to laser printers

HP Envy 6155e

4.1 out of 5 stars (1,619 reviews)
HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Colour Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy 6155e is designed for home use, excelling in printing everyday documents and vibrant photos. It offers a range of convenient features, including wireless printing and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Users appreciate the inclusion of three months of ink with activation, providing an immediate benefit to new owners.

Home Office Efficiency

This all-in-one printer offers print speeds of up to 10 ppm for black and 7 ppm for colour, making it suitable for casual home office tasks. The 100-sheet input tray and automatic duplex printing feature enable efficient handling of multi-page documents. Its wireless capabilities allow easy printing from smartphones and tablets, enhancing its usability for family needs.

Sustainable and User-Friendly

The HP Envy 6155e is made from at least 60% recycled plastic, aligning with eco-friendly practices. The intuitive 2.4-inch touchscreen allows users to navigate functions with ease, and the HP app enhances remote printing capabilities. However, users should be aware that this printer is designed for optimal performance with HP cartridges, which may limit third-party options.

What We Love
  • Suitable for home printing needs
  • User-friendly touchscreen interface
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Eco-friendly design
  • Includes three months of ink
The Trade-offs
  • Limited paper capacity
  • Slower print speeds compared to laser
  • Higher ink costs for frequent use

Canon PIXMA TS3720

4.0 out of 5 stars (1,478 reviews)
Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for Home Office
The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is a compact and versatile all-in-one printer that caters well to home office needs. With its ability to print, scan, and copy, this printer stands out for its affordability and user-friendly design. Users enjoy the wireless connectivity that allows for convenient mobile printing and easy setup.

Compact and Functional Design

This printer is designed for small spaces, featuring a 60-sheet rear tray that minimizes the need for frequent paper refills. With print speeds of approximately 7.7 ppm for black and 4 ppm for colour, it's suitable for various home printing tasks. The TS3720 supports borderless printing for photos, catering to users looking for quality prints without borders.

Ease of Use

Setting up the PIXMA TS3720 is straightforward, with a seamless wireless setup process. Users benefit from the 1.5-inch LCD screen that facilitates easy adjustments and selections for printing, scanning, and copying. However, users should note that while this model is budget-friendly, the cost of ink cartridges may accumulate over time.

What We Love
  • Compact and space-saving design
  • Affordable price point
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Borderless printing for photos
  • User-friendly LCD screen
The Trade-offs
  • Slower print speeds than competitors
  • Limited paper capacity
  • Higher long-term ink costs

HP OfficeJet 5255
⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.4 out of 5 stars (2,244 reviews)
HP OfficeJet 5255 All-in-One Printer with Mobile Printing
The HP OfficeJet 5255 is a robust all-in-one printer that excels in meeting the demands of busy home offices. Known for its fast print speeds and high-quality output, this printer provides excellent value for those who require a reliable multifunction device. Users appreciate its compatibility with mobile devices, making printing convenient from anywhere.

Performance and Features

With fast print speeds and versatile functionalities including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, the OfficeJet 5255 is well-equipped for any home office environment. It features a 35-page automatic document feeder and supports dual-sided printing, enhancing efficiency for multi-page documents. The printer is compatible with HP's Instant Ink service, allowing users to manage ink supplies conveniently.

User Experience

Users find the OfficeJet 5255 easy to set up and operate, with a straightforward mobile app for printing and scanning. The printer's design is sleek and modern, making it a good fit for any workspace. However, some users may find the ink costs on the higher side, especially for heavy users.

What We Love
  • Fast print speeds
  • All-in-one functionality
  • Convenient mobile printing
  • Automatic document feeder
  • Sleek design
The Trade-offs
  • Higher ink costs for heavy users
  • Requires internet connection for some features
  • Limited colour printing capabilities

Epson EcoTank ET-2800
⚡ Best Performance

4.2 out of 5 stars (17,518 reviews)
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Colour Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a game-changer in the home printing landscape, offering a cartridge-free system that significantly reduces printing costs. Users appreciate the substantial savings on ink, making this model an attractive option for families and small businesses needing regular printing. Its all-in-one capabilities further enhance its appeal as a multifunctional device.

Cost-Effective and Efficient

The EcoTank ET-2800 features a unique design that utilizes refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, allowing users to print thousands of pages before needing a refill. This model excels in producing high-quality colour prints and offers scanning and copying functions. Its wireless capabilities facilitate easy connection to mobile devices, enhancing user convenience.

User-Friendly Design

With a compact design, the ET-2800 fits well in home offices with limited space. The printer's setup is user-friendly, making it accessible for individuals who may not be tech-savvy. However, some users may find the initial cost higher compared to conventional inkjet printers, despite the long-term savings on ink.

What We Love
  • Cartridge-free printing
  • Significant long-term cost savings
  • High-quality colour prints
  • Compact design
  • User-friendly setup
The Trade-offs
  • Higher initial purchase price
  • Limited print speeds compared to laser
  • Requires regular maintenance for ink tanks

Brother MFC-J1360DW
💰 Best Value

4.2 out of 5 stars (8,424 reviews)
Brother Work Smart MFC-J1360DW Colour Inkjet All-in-One Printer
The Brother Work Smart MFC-J1360DW is a versatile colour inkjet printer designed for home and small office use. Its ability to print, scan, and copy in one compact device makes it a valuable addition. Users appreciate the automatic duplex printing feature and the affordability of this multifunction printer.

Versatile Functionality

The MFC-J1360DW offers impressive colour printing capabilities, making it ideal for users who require vibrant document and photo printing. With a maximum print speed of 12 ppm for black and 10 ppm for colour, it handles everyday tasks efficiently. The printer includes a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-page automatic document feeder, enhancing productivity.

User Experience

Setup is quick and straightforward, with wireless connectivity options that allow printing from various devices. The MFC-J1360DW also supports Brother's Refresh subscription service, providing convenient toner delivery. However, some users may find that while the print quality is good, it may not match the precision of higher-end photo printers.

What We Love
  • Affordable and versatile
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Wireless connectivity options
  • User-friendly setup
  • Supports subscription service for ink
The Trade-offs
  • Slower print speeds compared to laser models
  • Print quality may vary for photos
  • Limited toner options available

Canon PIXMA TR4720

4.1 out of 5 stars (1,761 reviews)
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer with Auto Document Feeder
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a reliable all-in-one printer that meets the demands of home users. Known for its versatility, this printer can print, copy, scan, and fax, making it a multifunctional solution for various tasks. Users appreciate its mobile printing capabilities and the ease of setup, making it a great choice for families.

Multifunctional Convenience

With print speeds of up to 8.8 ppm for black and 4.4 ppm for colour, the TR4720 is suitable for casual home printing needs. It features a built-in auto document feeder, allowing for easy scanning and copying of multi-page documents. The printer's wireless connectivity enables users to print from their smartphones or tablets effortlessly.

User-Friendly Features

The TR4720 is designed for ease of use, featuring a simple control panel and easy setup process. Its compact design fits well in smaller workspaces, making it ideal for home offices. However, users should keep in mind that while it is budget-friendly, ink costs can add up over time.

What We Love
  • Versatile multifunction capabilities
  • Wireless and mobile printing
  • Compact and easy to set up
  • Built-in auto document feeder
  • Affordable price point
The Trade-offs
  • Slower print speeds
  • Higher long-term ink costs
  • Limited paper capacity

Epson EcoTank ET-2803

4.2 out of 5 stars (17,518 reviews)
Epson EcoTank ET-2803 Wireless Colour All-in-One Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 offers a unique cartridge-free printing experience, making it an economical choice for users who print regularly. With its high-capacity ink tanks, this printer delivers vibrant colour output while keeping operational costs low. Users find its multifunctional capabilities and wireless features particularly beneficial for home and office use.

Cost-Effective Printing

Similar to the ET-2800, the EcoTank ET-2803 utilizes a refillable ink tank system that allows for thousands of prints before needing new ink. This printer offers excellent print quality and includes scanning and copying functions, making it suitable for various everyday tasks. Its wireless connectivity also enables printing from smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience.

User-Friendly Design

The EcoTank ET-2803 is designed for ease of use, featuring straightforward setup procedures and an intuitive interface. While it may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings on ink make it a worthwhile investment for regular users. However, users should be aware of the need for regular maintenance to keep the ink tanks functioning optimally.

What We Love
  • Cartridge-free, cost-effective printing
  • High-quality colour output
  • Multifunctional capabilities
  • Compact and user-friendly design
  • Wireless connectivity
The Trade-offs
  • Initial purchase price may be higher
  • Requires regular maintenance for ink tanks
  • Limited print speeds compared to laser

Canon LBP674Cdw II

4.6 out of 5 stars (36 reviews)
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP674Cdw II Wireless Laser Printer
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP674Cdw II is a high-performance wireless laser printer designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Known for its speed and efficiency, this printer delivers high-quality colour prints quickly and reliably. Users appreciate its user-friendly touchscreen interface and minimal maintenance requirements, making it a smart choice for busy environments.

High-Speed Performance

This model achieves duplex printing speeds of up to 35 pages per minute, with a quick first print time of approximately 7 seconds. The 250-sheet standard cassette and 50-sheet multipurpose tray provide ample paper capacity for various printing tasks. The printer also supports Wi-Fi Direct Connection, allowing for easy connection to mobile devices without the need for a router.

User-Friendly Interface

The LBP674Cdw II features a customizable 5-inch colour touchscreen, enhancing the user experience with intuitive navigation. Its design balances speed and low maintenance, making it suitable for busy offices. However, some users may find that the initial investment is higher compared to other laser printers.

What We Love
  • High-speed printing capabilities
  • User-friendly touchscreen interface
  • Ample paper capacity
  • Low maintenance requirements
  • Versatile connectivity options
The Trade-offs
  • Higher initial purchase price
  • Limited to colour printing
  • May require additional toner costs

Canon PIXMA TS3720 White

4.0 out of 5 stars (1,478 reviews)
Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer in White
The Canon PIXMA TS3720 in white is a stylish and functional all-in-one printer that suits home office needs. Its compact design and wireless connectivity make it a convenient choice for users looking for versatility in a small footprint. Users appreciate its ease of use and affordability, making it a popular option for everyday printing tasks.

Stylish and Compact Design

This all-in-one printer features a sleek white design, making it a visually appealing addition to any workspace. With a print speed of approximately 7.7 ppm for black and 4 ppm for colour, it effectively handles basic printing tasks. The 60-sheet rear tray minimizes the need for frequent paper refills, enhancing convenience.

Ease of Use and Functionality

Setting up the PIXMA TS3720 is simple, with wireless capabilities that allow for easy printing from various devices. The 1.5-inch LCD screen aids in navigating settings and functions. However, users should consider that while it is budget-friendly, ink costs could accumulate over time.

What We Love
  • Affordable and stylish design
  • Compact and space-saving
  • Easy wireless setup
  • User-friendly LCD screen
  • Suitable for basic home printing
The Trade-offs
  • Slower print speeds than competitors
  • Limited paper capacity
  • Higher long-term ink costs

Brother MFC-J1260W
⭐ Top Rated

4.3 out of 5 stars (761 reviews)
Brother Work Smart MFC-J1260W Wireless Colour Inkjet All-in-One Printer
The Brother Work Smart MFC-J1260W is an affordable colour inkjet printer that caters to the needs of home and small office users. Its multifunction capabilities and wireless connectivity make it a practical choice for everyday tasks, with users appreciating its efficiency and ease of use.

Versatile All-in-One Functionality

This model allows users to print, scan, and copy with ease. It features a maximum print speed of 12 ppm for black and 10 ppm for colour, making it suitable for various printing needs. The printer includes a 250-sheet paper tray and supports automatic duplex printing, enhancing productivity.

User Experience

Setting up the MFC-J1260W is straightforward, with wireless options enabling convenient printing from smartphones and tablets. The printer is compatible with Brother's Refresh subscription service, allowing users to manage ink supplies effectively. However, some users may find the print quality is not as sharp as higher-end photo printers.

What We Love
  • Affordable and versatile
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Wireless connectivity options
  • User-friendly setup
  • Supports subscription service for ink
The Trade-offs
  • Print speeds may be slower than laser
  • Quality may vary for high-resolution images
  • Limited toner options available

Canon PIXMA TR7020a

4.2 out of 5 stars (169 reviews)
Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Colour Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR7020a is designed for home users seeking a reliable all-in-one printer. With its wireless capabilities and multifunction features, it delivers convenience for everyday printing, scanning, and copying tasks. Users appreciate its compact design and ease of use, making it a suitable choice for families.

Convenient and Versatile

This all-in-one printer offers versatile functionalities including printing, scanning, and copying, all within a compact footprint. It features mobile printing capabilities, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones. With print speeds of up to 8.8 ppm for black and 4.4 ppm for colour, it handles everyday tasks efficiently.

User-Friendly Design

The TR7020a is easy to set up and operate, featuring a simple control panel and wireless connectivity. Its design fits well in smaller spaces, making it ideal for home offices. However, users should be mindful of the potential for higher ink costs over time.

What We Love
  • Versatile all-in-one functionalities
  • Compact and user-friendly design
  • Wireless printing capabilities
  • Suitable for everyday tasks
  • Affordable price point
The Trade-offs
  • Slower print speeds
  • Higher long-term ink costs
  • Limited paper capacity

Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240

4.9 out of 5 stars (13 reviews)
Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 Large Format Printer
The Canon imagePROGRAF TM-240 is a professional large format printer designed for high-quality graphics and detailed images. Ideal for businesses in need of precise prints, this model offers a range of advanced features that cater to graphic designers and artists. Users commend its print quality and versatility, making it a top choice for demanding printing environments.

Professional-Level Performance

This large format printer is equipped with Canon's 5-color LUCIA TD pigment ink, providing exceptional quality for both graphics and text. With a print speed of 2.4 ppm, it is tailored for high-quality output rather than speed. The adjustable user interface enhances usability, allowing for easy operation and control.

Ideal for Graphic Design

The TM-240 is particularly suited for graphic design work, offering the ability to produce detailed images and vibrant colours. Users have noted the printer's reliability and consistent performance over time, making it a trusted choice for professional settings, despite the higher initial investment.

What We Love
  • Exceptional print quality
  • Versatile for graphics and text
  • User-friendly adjustable interface
  • Reliable performance for professional use
  • Ideal for demanding environments
The Trade-offs
  • Higher initial purchase cost
  • Slower print speeds
  • Limited to large format printing

Frequently Asked Questions

Consider your primary printing needs. If you require high-quality colour prints for images or documents, an inkjet like the HP Envy 6155e or Canon PIXMA TS3720 may be ideal. For high-volume black-and-white printing, a laser printer like the Brother MFC-L2820DW or Brother DCP-L2640DW offers faster speeds and lower long-term costs.

Inkjet printers typically have slower print speeds compared to laser printers. For instance, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e prints up to 20 pages per minute (ppm) in black, while the Brother MFC-L2820DW and Brother DCP-L2640DW focus on efficient black-and-white printing at faster speeds, making them suitable for busy office environments.

Both inkjet and laser printers require regular maintenance. Inkjet printers like the HP Envy 6155e may need periodic cleaning to prevent clogs in the print heads, while laser printers like the Brother MFC-L2820DW and Brother DCP-L2640DW require toner replacement. The Refresh EZ Print Subscription for the Brother MFC-L2820DW and Brother DCP-L2640DW helps simplify toner management.

Laser printers are generally quieter during operation compared to inkjet printers. The Brother MFC-L2820DW and Brother DCP-L2640DW are designed for low noise levels, making them suitable for small office settings, while inkjets like the HP Envy 6155e may produce more sound during printing.

Most Brother and HP printers come with a one-year manufacturer's warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. For example, the Brother MFC-L2820DW and Brother DCP-L2640DW provide reliable support for small offices, while HP printers like the HP Envy 6155e offer customer service options for assistance.

For personal use, compact models like the Canon PIXMA TS3720 or HP Envy 6155e may suffice. However, for family or shared spaces, consider multifunction printers like the Brother MFC-L2820DW or Brother DCP-L2640DW, which provide scanning and copying capabilities along with robust printing features.

Most modern printers, including the Brother MFC-L2820DW, Brother DCP-L2640DW, and HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e, offer versatile connectivity options such as dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connections, allowing easy integration into home or office networks.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right printer is essential for ensuring efficiency and quality in your printing tasks. Consider your specific needs, such as print volume and the type of documents you'll be producing. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of each technology, as this can significantly influence your overall satisfaction. For those who print primarily text documents, a laser printer may provide the best cost efficiency. Conversely, if you require vivid images and colour, an inkjet printer might be the better choice. Whatever your requirements, take the time to evaluate each option carefully, as the right printer can enhance your productivity and workflow. Don't hesitate to explore the curated selections available and make an informed decision today!

Explore top printer options now!