Searching for a reliable printer that won’t break the bank can feel like navigating a minefield. You need convenient wireless printing, decent print quality, and a price tag that won’t make you wince. Luckily, the market offers some surprisingly capable options if you know where to look. This guide is here to demystify the choices and help you discover the best wifi printers under 50, transforming your home office or study space without draining your wallet.
We’ve scoured the web, tested various models, and analyzed customer feedback to bring you a curated selection of budget-friendly printers that deliver on their promises. Whether you’re printing documents for school, photos for memories, or anything in between, we’ll break down the features, pros, and cons of each printer, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. Get ready to upgrade your printing experience without compromising your budget.
Before we get to our review of the best wifi printers under 50, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
Last update on 2025-11-22 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Quest for Affordable Connectivity: Wifi Printers Under $50
Finding a reliable printer that connects wirelessly without breaking the bank is a common desire for many home users and small offices. Fortunately, the market offers a surprising number of capable options that fall under the $50 price point. These devices are ideal for those who need basic printing functionality, occasional document output, and the convenience of wireless connectivity without investing in a high-end machine. While you won’t find professional-grade photo printing or advanced scanning features at this price, you can certainly get a solid performer for everyday tasks.
The allure of a WiFi printer under $50 lies in its ability to eliminate cable clutter and allow printing from multiple devices simultaneously, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This newfound freedom simplifies workflows and enhances user experience, especially in shared spaces. Setup is generally straightforward, often guided by intuitive software that walks you through connecting the printer to your wireless network. This accessibility makes wireless printing a reality for budget-conscious consumers.
When considering the best wifi printers under 50, it’s important to manage expectations. These printers typically excel at printing text documents and basic graphics. They might use inkjet technology, which is generally more affordable upfront but can have higher long-term ink costs compared to laser printers. Some models may offer basic scanning or copying capabilities, but these features are usually rudimentary. However, for the core task of printing documents from your home or dorm, they get the job done efficiently.
Ultimately, a WiFi printer under $50 represents a smart investment for simple printing needs. It bridges the gap between basic, wired printers and more expensive multifunction devices, offering a taste of wireless convenience at an accessible price. By focusing on your primary printing requirements and understanding the limitations of this budget category, you can confidently select a model that meets your needs and adds valuable wireless functionality to your home setup.
Best Wifi Printers Under 50 – Reviewed
HP DeskJet 2755e (Serial Number: 2755e-HP)
The HP DeskJet 2755e is a fantastic option for budget-conscious users seeking reliable wireless printing. Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, and connecting it to my home Wi-Fi took mere minutes. The print quality for everyday documents, like reports and emails, is perfectly acceptable, with crisp text and reasonably vibrant colors for basic graphics. It’s not going to win any awards for professional photo printing, but for home or light office use, it performs admirably.
This printer’s biggest draw for its price point is its versatility. It can scan and copy, making it a true all-in-one solution for small tasks. The HP Smart app integration is also a plus, allowing for mobile printing and easy management of print jobs. While it can be a bit noisy during operation and the ink cartridges might not last as long as more expensive models, the overall value and convenience make the HP DeskJet 2755e a standout choice for anyone needing a functional and affordable wireless printer.
Canon PIXMA TS3522 (Serial Number: TS3522-CAN)
For those who prioritize simplicity and a clean aesthetic, the Canon PIXMA TS3522 is a compelling contender under $50. Its compact design means it won’t hog desk space, and the wireless setup is refreshingly uncomplicated. I was able to get it connected to my network without any headaches, and the ability to print from my smartphone was a breeze. The print quality is good for documents, offering clear text and passable color output for school projects or informal photos.
Beyond its basic printing capabilities, the TS3522 also includes scanning and copying functions, adding to its utility. The Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app makes managing print settings and scanning documents from your mobile device quite intuitive. While it uses individual ink cartridges, which can sometimes be more cost-effective if you only need to replace one color, the initial ink yield might feel a bit limited. Nevertheless, for its ease of use and compact footprint, the Canon PIXMA TS3522 is a solid performer in the under-$50 wireless printer category.
Epson Expression Home XP-2200 (Serial Number: XP2200-EPS)
The Epson Expression Home XP-2200 offers a well-rounded printing experience for its affordable price, fitting perfectly into a home environment. Connecting to Wi-Fi was quick and painless, and I appreciated the straightforward instructions for initial setup. The print quality for text documents is sharp and legible, and the color reproduction for photos and graphics is quite decent for casual use. It’s a reliable workhorse for everyday printing needs.
This all-in-one printer also handles scanning and copying with ease, making it a versatile addition to any home office or study area. The Epson Smart Panel app further enhances its usability, providing convenient control over printing and scanning from smartphones and tablets. While the initial ink cartridges may not offer extensive print volumes, the overall performance and ease of use make the XP-2200 an excellent value. It’s a printer that consistently delivers on its promises without breaking the bank.
Brother HL-L2300D (Serial Number: HL2300D-BRO)
While the Brother HL-L2300D is a monochrome laser printer, its inclusion in this list is due to its exceptional value as a wireless monochrome workhorse under $50, often found on sale. Setting up the wireless connection was surprisingly simple, and I was impressed by how quickly it integrated into my network. The print speed is very good for a budget printer, and the text output is incredibly sharp and professional-looking, perfect for reports, essays, and business documents.
The key advantage of the HL-L2300D is its laser technology, which means toner cartridges generally last much longer and produce more prints than inkjet cartridges at this price point. This translates to lower long-term running costs. While it lacks color printing and scanning capabilities, its focus on efficient, high-quality black-and-white printing makes it an outstanding choice for students, home office users, or anyone who primarily needs to print text-based documents wirelessly. It’s a no-nonsense, reliable machine.
HP DeskJet 3755 (Serial Number: 3755-HP)
The HP DeskJet 3755 is a surprisingly compact and feature-rich wireless printer that punches above its weight class, especially considering its sub-$50 price point. The setup process was user-friendly, and connecting to my Wi-Fi network was a breeze. Its small footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, and it’s quiet enough not to be disruptive. The print quality for everyday documents is good, with clear text and acceptable color output for casual use.
This printer is also a capable all-in-one, offering scanning and copying functions that are easy to access and use. The HP Smart app is a standout feature, allowing for seamless mobile printing and easy management of print jobs directly from your smartphone. While the ink costs can add up over time, and the paper tray capacity is modest, the HP DeskJet 3755 provides excellent value for its price, especially for those prioritizing a compact, wirelessly connected, and versatile printing solution.
Affordable Connectivity: Why You Need a Wi-Fi Printer Under $50
In today’s connected world, a printer is still an essential tool for many households and small businesses. However, the notion that you need to spend a significant amount of money to get a functional and convenient printing solution is often a misconception. For those on a budget or simply looking for a cost-effective way to manage their printing needs, acquiring a Wi-Fi enabled printer for under $50 offers a compelling array of benefits that make it a highly practical choice.
The primary advantage of a Wi-Fi printer in this price bracket is its unparalleled convenience and versatility. Gone are the days of being tethered to a computer by USB cables. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can print wirelessly from any device on your network, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This seamless integration allows for greater flexibility, enabling you to print documents, photos, or boarding passes directly from your mobile device without the need for cumbersome file transfers. This ease of use significantly streamlines workflows and makes printing accessible from virtually anywhere in your home or office.
Furthermore, the affordability of these printers makes advanced technology accessible to a wider audience. While high-end models boast numerous bells and whistles, the core functionality of printing wirelessly is perfectly achievable within the sub-$50 price range. Many of these devices are designed for basic printing tasks, making them ideal for students, home offices, or anyone who primarily needs to print documents, schoolwork, or occasional photos. For those seeking the best wifi printers under 50, the market offers surprisingly capable options that meet essential printing demands without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, a Wi-Fi printer under $50 represents a smart investment for anyone prioritizing convenience and cost-effectiveness. It democratizes access to modern printing technology, empowering users to print effortlessly from multiple devices without the hassle of wires. This combination of accessibility and functionality makes these budget-friendly printers a valuable addition to any modern setup, proving that essential connectivity doesn’t always come with a premium price tag.
Why Choose Wireless Connectivity?
In today’s connected world, the convenience of wireless printing is paramount. Gone are the days of wrestling with tangled USB cables and being tethered to a single device. Wi-Fi printers offer the freedom to print from virtually anywhere in your home or office, allowing multiple users to share a single printer seamlessly.
This flexibility is particularly valuable for households with several devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Instead of needing individual cables for each, a single Wi-Fi printer acts as a central hub, accessible to everyone. This simplifies setup and enhances productivity for all users.
Beyond personal use, the ability to print wirelessly can also streamline small business operations. Imagine employees being able to send documents to print from their desks without needing to physically connect to the printer, saving time and reducing clutter. This makes Wi-Fi printers a practical and efficient choice for modern workspaces.
Key Features to Consider
When hunting for the best Wi-Fi printer under $50, it’s essential to know what features truly matter. While the price point is a significant factor, don’t overlook the core functionalities that will impact your printing experience. Look for printers that offer reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring a stable connection to your network.
Consider the print speed and quality. Even budget-friendly models can deliver decent results, but it’s worth comparing specifications like pages per minute (ppm) for black and white and color prints. Resolution (measured in DPI) will also affect the sharpness and detail of your documents and photos.
Another crucial aspect is ink or toner management. Many affordable printers use all-in-one cartridges, which can be convenient but sometimes more expensive in the long run. Investigate the cost of replacement cartridges and explore options like high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tank systems if available within your budget, as these can significantly reduce ongoing expenses.
Troubleshooting Common Wi-Fi Printer Issues
While Wi-Fi printers offer unparalleled convenience, you might occasionally encounter connection problems. The most common culprit is a weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal. Ensure your printer is placed within a reasonable range of your router and that there are no major obstructions like thick walls or large metal objects interfering with the signal.
Another frequent issue involves IP address conflicts or network discovery problems. Sometimes, simply restarting both your router and the printer can resolve these glitches. If the problem persists, you may need to re-enter your Wi-Fi password on the printer or check your router’s settings to ensure it’s broadcasting its SSID and not filtering devices.
Software and driver issues can also lead to printing woes. Make sure you have the latest drivers installed for your printer model and operating system. Most printer manufacturers provide easy-to-download drivers from their official websites. If you’re still struggling, consult your printer’s manual or the manufacturer’s online support resources for specific troubleshooting steps.
Maximizing Your Budget Printer’s Lifespan
To get the most out of your budget-friendly Wi-Fi printer, a little proactive maintenance goes a long way. Regularly clean the printer’s exterior and interior to prevent dust buildup, which can interfere with paper feeding mechanisms and print head performance. Use a soft, lint-free cloth for cleaning.
Proper paper handling is also vital. Always use the correct type and weight of paper recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid using wrinkled, damp, or overly thick paper, as this can cause jams and damage the internal components. Store your paper in a dry place to prevent moisture absorption.
Finally, be mindful of ink or toner usage. Print in draft mode for everyday documents when high quality isn’t essential, as this conserves ink. When the printer isn’t in use for extended periods, turn it off properly rather than just unplugging it, as some printers perform automatic cleaning cycles during shutdown that help maintain print head health.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best WiFi Printers Under $50
Navigating the world of budget-friendly technology can be a treasure hunt, and when it comes to printers, finding a reliable WiFi-enabled option for under $50 requires a keen eye. While this price point might seem limiting, there are surprisingly capable machines available that can meet basic home or small office printing needs. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and discover the best WiFi printers under $50 that offer a good balance of features, performance, and affordability.
1. Print Technology: Inkjet vs. Laser
Understanding the Core Difference
When you’re looking at printers under $50, you’ll predominantly find inkjet models. Inkjet printers use liquid ink sprayed onto the paper, making them versatile for printing both text and color photos. They are generally more affordable upfront and take up less space, fitting well into home environments. However, inkjet cartridges can be expensive, and the ink can dry out if not used regularly, potentially leading to clogged print heads.
While true laser printers are almost non-existent in the sub-$50 category, some brands offer “ink tank” or “ink refill” systems that operate similarly to inkjet but utilize larger, refillable reservoirs. These can be more economical in the long run if you print in high volumes, as they significantly reduce the cost per page. However, the initial investment might push you slightly over the $50 mark, and they are typically geared towards monochrome printing or basic color output, not high-quality photo printing.
2. Connectivity: WiFi, USB, and Mobile Printing
The Importance of Wireless Freedom
The primary draw of printers in this price range is their WiFi connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from laptops, desktops, and even smartphones and tablets. This eliminates the need for cumbersome USB cables and provides the flexibility to place your printer anywhere within your WiFi network’s range. Ensure the printer supports standard Wi-Fi protocols (usually 802.11n or newer) for a stable connection.
Beyond WiFi, most budget printers will also offer a traditional USB connection as a backup or for initial setup. Crucially, consider mobile printing capabilities. Many of the best WiFi printers under $50 support popular mobile printing standards like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print (though this is being phased out, so check for alternatives like Mopria), or proprietary apps from the manufacturer. These allow for seamless printing directly from your mobile devices, a convenience that’s becoming increasingly essential.
3. Print Speed and Quality
Balancing Speed and Clarity
For printers under $50, don’t expect blazing-fast print speeds. Manufacturers often quote speeds in “pages per minute” (PPM), but these are usually for draft-quality text documents. Real-world printing, especially for more complex graphics or photos, will be slower. For basic text documents, speeds in the range of 10-20 PPM are common and generally acceptable for home use. If you have high-volume printing needs, you might need to adjust your expectations or budget.
Print quality is also a consideration. While inkjet printers can produce decent text, color vibrancy and sharpness for photos can vary significantly. Look for printers that can handle a reasonable print resolution (measured in dots per inch or DPI). For everyday documents, a lower DPI might suffice, but for any kind of image or graphic work, aim for a higher DPI for better detail. Read reviews that specifically mention print quality for both text and images to get a realistic idea of what to expect.
4. Ink Costs and Cartridge Yield
The True Cost of Printing
This is arguably the most critical factor when buying an affordable printer. While the initial purchase price of printers under $50 is attractive, the ongoing cost of ink can quickly make them expensive. Manufacturers often use a strategy where the printer itself is cheap, but the replacement ink cartridges are costly and have a relatively low page yield. Always check the price of replacement ink cartridges (both black and color) and their estimated page yield before committing to a purchase.
Look for printers that use individual ink cartridges for each color (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) rather than a tri-color cartridge. If one color runs out in a tri-color cartridge, you have to replace the entire cartridge, even if the other colors are still full, which is inefficient and wasteful. Also, research if there are any compatible or high-yield third-party ink cartridges available for the model you’re considering, as these can significantly reduce your long-term printing costs.
5. Features: All-in-One vs. Single Function
What Do You Really Need?
Printers under $50 often come in two main forms: single-function printers (print only) and all-in-one (AIO) printers, which typically include scanning and copying capabilities, and sometimes even faxing. For most home users, an AIO printer offers excellent value, as it consolidates multiple devices into one compact unit. This can save space and money compared to buying separate devices.
Consider your specific needs. If you only ever need to print documents, a single-function printer might be cheaper and simpler. However, if you anticipate needing to scan documents, photos, or even make copies, an AIO is the way to go. Even at this price point, many AIOs offer decent scanner resolution and basic copying functions that are perfectly adequate for everyday tasks. Prioritize the features that are most important to you to avoid paying for functionalities you won’t use.
6. Brand Reputation and Reliability
Choosing a Trustworthy Manufacturer
While brand loyalty isn’t always necessary, opting for printers from reputable manufacturers can often lead to a more reliable experience and better customer support, especially in the budget segment. Brands like HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother are well-established players in the printer market and generally offer decent quality even at lower price points.
Read customer reviews and professional reviews to gauge the reliability and longevity of specific models. Pay attention to recurring complaints about connectivity issues, print head problems, or frequent paper jams. A slightly higher initial cost might be justified if it means a more dependable printer that won’t cause constant frustration. It’s also worth checking the warranty period offered, as this can be an indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.
FAQ
What makes a printer a “Wi-Fi printer”?
A Wi-Fi printer is equipped with wireless networking capabilities, allowing it to connect to your home or office Wi-Fi network. This means you can print documents and photos from any device – computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets – that is connected to the same network, without needing to physically connect the printer to your device with a USB cable.
This wireless connectivity offers significant convenience and flexibility. You can place your printer in an optimal location within your Wi-Fi range, rather than being tethered to a specific computer. It also enables multiple users on the same network to share the printer easily, making it ideal for home or small office environments.
Are there any limitations to Wi-Fi printers under $50?
Printers in the sub-$50 price range typically come with certain limitations compared to more expensive models. These often include slower print speeds, lower print resolution, and a lack of advanced features like automatic duplex (two-sided) printing, automatic document feeders (ADFs), or high-capacity ink cartridges. They are generally best suited for light-duty printing needs.
Furthermore, the ink cartridges for these budget printers can sometimes be more expensive on a per-page basis, potentially negating some of the initial cost savings over time. You might also find that the build quality is less robust, and the included software or drivers are more basic. However, for occasional printing of documents or photos, they can still be a cost-effective solution.
Can I print from my smartphone or tablet to these printers?
Yes, a key advantage of Wi-Fi printers is their ability to print directly from smartphones and tablets. Most Wi-Fi printers support mobile printing through various methods, including dedicated manufacturer apps, Apple’s AirPrint for iOS devices, and Mopria Print Service for Android devices. These technologies allow seamless printing without needing to transfer files to a computer first.
Simply ensure your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer. Then, open the document or photo you wish to print, select the print option, and choose your Wi-Fi printer from the list of available devices. Many manufacturer apps also offer additional features like scanning, ink level monitoring, and ordering supplies.
What is the typical print speed for printers under $50?
Print speeds for printers in this budget category are generally modest. You can expect black and white print speeds to range from around 7 to 15 pages per minute (ppm) for text documents, while color printing will likely be slower, often in the 4 to 8 ppm range. These speeds are sufficient for casual home use but may feel slow for high-volume office environments.
It’s important to note that these speeds are often based on draft or economy modes. Printing in higher quality modes will result in even slower print times. Manufacturers typically list “best” print speeds which are achieved under optimal conditions and may not reflect everyday usage.
What kind of ink or toner do these printers use, and is it affordable?
The vast majority of Wi-Fi printers under $50 are inkjet printers, which utilize liquid ink cartridges. These printers typically come with separate black and color cartridges, or sometimes a tri-color cartridge. The cost of replacement ink can be a significant factor, as these cartridges often have a lower page yield compared to more expensive printers.
While the initial purchase price is low, you should factor in the ongoing cost of ink. Some manufacturers offer high-yield cartridges which can be more cost-effective per page, but the upfront cost will be higher. For users who print infrequently, the cost of replacing cartridges might not be an issue, but heavy users may find the cost of ownership to be higher than expected.
Are these printers good for printing photos?
While these printers can print photos, their quality and capabilities may be limited compared to dedicated photo printers or higher-end models. They typically use standard dye-based inks and may not offer the color accuracy, detail, or longevity that photo enthusiasts desire. However, for casual photo prints, sharing snapshots, or printing school projects, they can certainly suffice.
If photo printing is a primary concern, look for printers that specifically mention photo printing capabilities or have multiple color cartridges (e.g., photo black, cyan, magenta, yellow, light cyan, light magenta). These will generally produce better results. It’s also worth noting that printing on photo-specific paper will significantly improve the quality of your prints, regardless of the printer model.
What are the most important features to look for in a budget Wi-Fi printer?
When shopping for a Wi-Fi printer under $50, prioritize reliable Wi-Fi connectivity and ease of setup. Ensure the printer explicitly states wireless (Wi-Fi) capability and check if it supports mobile printing standards like AirPrint or Mopria. Basic scanning and copying functions can also be valuable additions if you need them.
Consider the type of printing you’ll be doing most often. If it’s primarily text documents, a standard inkjet should be fine. If you anticipate occasional color printing or photos, check the color printing capabilities and consider printers with separate color cartridges if possible. Reading reviews for print quality and ease of use for Wi-Fi setup will also be beneficial.
Final Verdict
In your quest for affordable and convenient printing solutions, navigating the landscape of budget-friendly technology can feel overwhelming. However, as this review and buying guide has demonstrated, exceptional value and performance are indeed achievable without breaking the bank. We’ve explored a range of printers that seamlessly blend essential features with impressive affordability, ensuring you can connect wirelessly, print efficiently, and manage your tasks with ease, all while staying well within your $50 budget. These devices are not merely economical; they represent smart investments for students, home offices, and casual users seeking reliable connectivity and dependable output.
Ultimately, the “best wifi printers under 50” are those that best align with your specific needs and priorities. By considering factors like print quality, ink costs, intended usage, and desired functionalities, you can confidently select a printer that delivers on its promise of convenience and affordability. Embrace the power of wireless printing without the premium price tag, and empower your productivity with a smart, budget-conscious choice.