Finding a reliable printer that doesn’t break the bank can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. For many home users and small offices, the need for crisp documents, vibrant photos, and efficient operation is paramount, but so is the budget. This is where Canon shines, consistently delivering value without compromising on quality. If you’re on the hunt for affordable printing solutions, you’ve come to the right place.
This comprehensive guide is dedicated to uncovering the best canon printers under 100. We’ll delve into the features, performance, and user experiences of top contenders, helping you navigate the options to find the perfect fit for your printing needs. Whether you’re printing school assignments, family photos, or essential work documents, get ready to discover a Canon printer that offers exceptional performance and incredible value, all while staying comfortably within your budget.
Before we get to our review of the best canon printers under 100, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Canon Printers: Affordable Excellence Under $100
When you’re looking for reliable and high-quality printing without breaking the bank, Canon printers under $100 offer a compelling solution. These devices are designed to meet the everyday printing needs of home users and small offices, providing a balance of functionality, performance, and affordability. You’ll find a range of models that excel in different areas, from crisp text documents to vibrant photo prints, ensuring you can find the best canon printers under 100 that fit your specific requirements.
Many of the budget-friendly Canon printers available in this price range are all-in-one or multifunction devices. This means they don’t just print; they also offer scanning and copying capabilities. This versatility makes them incredibly practical, allowing you to consolidate multiple office tasks onto a single, compact machine. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited space, as it reduces clutter and streamlines your workflow.
Despite their attractive price point, these Canon printers don’t compromise on print quality. You can expect sharp text for documents and decent color reproduction for casual photos and graphics. While they might not offer the same professional-grade photo output as higher-end models, they are more than adequate for everyday printing, school projects, and sharing memories.
When considering Canon printers under $100, it’s important to look at factors like ink costs, print speeds, and connectivity options. Many models offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from your computer, smartphone, or tablet, adding a significant layer of convenience. The overall value proposition of these printers makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking dependable printing solutions.
Best Canon Printers Under 100 – Reviewed
Canon PIXMA TS3520 Wireless All-in-One
The Canon PIXMA TS3520 is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable printer that can handle basic home printing needs. Its compact design makes it easy to fit on any desk or shelf, and the wireless connectivity allows for convenient printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without the hassle of cables. Setup is generally straightforward, and the included Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app offers a user-friendly interface for managing print jobs, scanning, and even ordering ink.
While the TS3520 excels at everyday tasks like printing documents and photos, it’s important to manage expectations regarding speed and advanced features. It’s not the fastest printer on the market, and the print quality, while good for the price, may not satisfy professional photographers. However, for students, home office users, or families needing a no-fuss printer for occasional use, the TS3520 offers excellent value and dependability.
Canon PIXMA MG3620 Wireless All-in-One
The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a versatile and budget-friendly all-in-one printer that delivers solid performance for its price point. Its ability to print, copy, and scan makes it a practical choice for a variety of home and small office tasks. The wireless functionality is a major selling point, enabling easy printing from multiple devices, and the compact, stylish design won’t take up too much space. The printer also supports duplex printing, which is a great feature for saving paper.
When it comes to print quality, the MG3620 produces sharp text and reasonably vibrant colors, making it suitable for documents, schoolwork, and casual photo prints. While it might not match the ink efficiency of some higher-end models, the cost of replacement cartridges is generally competitive. For users who need a reliable, connected printer for everyday use and don’t require extremely high volumes or specialized printing features, the Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a smart and economical choice.
Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer
The Canon SELPHY CP1500 is a dedicated photo printer that offers a delightful way to bring your digital memories to life. Its compact and portable design means you can easily take it to events or even use it on the go, turning smartphone photos into physical keepsakes. The dye-sublimation printing technology ensures excellent color reproduction and durability, producing lab-quality prints that are smudge-proof and water-resistant.
Beyond its impressive print quality, the CP1500 boasts user-friendly operation with a built-in screen and intuitive controls. It offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and USB, and supports printing from a wide range of devices and memory cards. While it’s primarily for photo printing and doesn’t have scanning or copying capabilities, its specialized function is executed exceptionally well, making it a perfect gift or a personal treat for anyone who loves printing their photos.
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a well-rounded all-in-one printer that caters to the needs of small offices and home users alike. It efficiently handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, making it a true workhorse for a variety of tasks. The inclusion of an automatic document feeder (ADF) is a significant convenience, streamlining the process of scanning and copying multi-page documents. Wireless connectivity ensures effortless printing from any device in your network.
In terms of performance, the TR4720 delivers good quality prints for both text and images, with crisp text and decent color accuracy. While it’s not the fastest printer available, its speed is perfectly adequate for typical home office workloads. The ink costs are reasonable for its class, and the printer is generally easy to set up and maintain. For those seeking a compact, feature-rich, and reliable multifunction printer that won’t break the bank, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a strong contender.
Canon PIXMA iX6820 Wireless Business Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA iX6820 is a standout option for those who require high-quality, large-format printing capabilities on a budget. Its ability to print up to 13″ x 19″ documents makes it ideal for creative professionals, small businesses, or anyone who needs to produce posters, presentations, or detailed graphics. The wireless and Ethernet connectivity options provide flexibility in how you connect and share the printer within an office environment.
While the iX6820 is a dedicated printer and lacks scanning or copying functions, its strength lies in its superior print quality for its price bracket. It utilizes a five-ink system that produces sharp text and vibrant, accurate colors, especially for photos and graphics. The print speed is respectable for its category, and the paper handling is robust enough for various media types. For users who prioritize large-format printing and excellent photo reproduction without the need for multifunction features, the Canon PIXMA iX6820 is a remarkable value.
Budget-Friendly Printing: Why Canon Printers Under $100 Make Sense
For many individuals and small businesses, the need for a reliable printer often comes with a strict budget. This is where Canon printers under $100 truly shine. They offer a compelling combination of affordability, brand reputation, and essential functionality, making them an accessible solution for a wide range of printing needs. Whether it’s for student assignments, home office documents, or personal photo printing, these models provide a cost-effective entry point into the world of Canon’s renowned printing technology without breaking the bank.
The primary driver for purchasing a Canon printer in this price bracket is undoubtedly the economic advantage. New printer technology can be expensive, but Canon’s commitment to providing quality products at lower price points ensures that essential printing capabilities are within reach for a broader audience. This allows users to manage their expenses effectively while still benefiting from the consistent performance and user-friendly interfaces that Canon is known for, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a dependable printing device.
Furthermore, these budget-friendly Canon printers are often designed with ease of use and setup in mind. Many models are compact and straightforward to connect, whether via USB or Wi-Fi, simplifying the process for less tech-savvy users. This user-centric approach, coupled with readily available ink cartridges and straightforward maintenance, contributes to a hassle-free printing experience. For those seeking the best canon printers under 100, the combination of affordability, ease of operation, and the backing of a trusted brand makes them an excellent choice.
Ultimately, the need to buy Canon printers under $100 stems from a desire for practical, everyday printing solutions that are both economical and reliable. They cater to a significant segment of the market that prioritizes value for money without compromising on the fundamental aspects of printing. These printers represent a smart investment for anyone who requires consistent output for documents, schoolwork, or casual photo printing, offering a tangible benefit to those working within tighter financial constraints.
Key Features to Consider in Budget Canon Printers
When looking for the best Canon printers under $100, several key features should guide your decision. Firstly, consider the print quality and resolution. Even at this price point, Canon offers models capable of producing sharp text documents and vibrant photos. Look for printers with higher DPI (dots per inch) for better detail. Secondly, think about connectivity options. Most budget Canon printers will offer USB connectivity, but some may also include Wi-Fi or mobile printing capabilities, allowing you to print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet.
Another crucial aspect is the ink system. Canon printers often use either pigment-based black ink for sharp text or dye-based color inks for better photo reproduction. Understand what your primary printing needs are. If you print a lot of text documents, a printer with a good pigment black cartridge will be beneficial. If photo printing is important, ensure the color ink cartridges are designed for longevity and color accuracy. Also, consider the cost and availability of replacement ink cartridges, as this can significantly impact the long-term running cost of your printer.
Finally, factor in the printer’s intended use. Are you looking for a basic document printer for occasional home use, or do you need something more capable for school projects or small home office tasks? Some budget Canon printers offer All-in-One (AiO) functionality, including scanning and copying, which can be incredibly convenient. Assess whether you need these extra features, as they might push the price slightly higher but offer significant utility.
Navigating Ink Costs and Page Yield
One of the most significant considerations when purchasing any printer, especially budget models, is the ongoing cost of ink. Canon printers, like many others, use proprietary ink cartridges. While the initial purchase price of a printer under $100 is attractive, it’s vital to research the cost of replacement ink cartridges. Some printers come with starter cartridges that have a lower ink yield, meaning you’ll need to buy replacements sooner.
Understanding the page yield of both black and color cartridges is paramount. Manufacturers usually provide an estimated page yield based on industry standards. While these are estimates, they offer a good benchmark for comparing different models. A higher page yield means you can print more pages before needing to replace the cartridge, ultimately saving money and hassle. Look for printers that offer high-yield (XL) cartridge options, as these often provide a lower cost per page.
Furthermore, explore if the printer supports cost-saving printing modes, such as “draft” or “economy” settings. These modes use less ink and can extend the life of your cartridges, especially for non-critical documents. Some Canon models also feature separate ink tanks for black and color, meaning you only replace the color that runs out, rather than an all-in-one cartridge. This can be a more economical approach for users who print a variety of colors.
Performance Expectations for Entry-Level Canon Printers
When setting your sights on a Canon printer under $100, it’s essential to manage expectations regarding performance. These printers are designed for everyday home use and basic office tasks, not for high-volume professional printing. Print speeds, while perhaps not groundbreaking, are generally adequate for personal needs. Black and white text documents will typically print faster than color photos or graphics-intensive pages.
The print quality, especially for text, is usually a strong suit for Canon, even in their more affordable offerings. You can expect crisp, clear text that is easy to read. Color printing for everyday documents, such as school reports or basic presentations, will also be satisfactory. However, if your primary goal is professional-grade photo printing with exceptional color accuracy and detail, you might find budget models slightly lacking compared to higher-end photo printers.
Despite the budget-friendly price, many of these Canon printers offer decent build quality and reliability for their intended purpose. They are usually compact and lightweight, making them easy to fit into most home or small office spaces. While they might not have the robust construction of more expensive machines, they are designed for typical home printing volumes and should serve you well with proper care and maintenance.
Maintaining Your Canon Printer for Longevity
To ensure your Canon printer continues to perform optimally and lasts for a good duration, regular maintenance is key. The most basic but crucial step is to periodically print a few pages, even if you haven’t used the printer recently. This helps to prevent the print heads from drying out and becoming clogged, which is a common issue with inkjet printers. Running a print head cleaning cycle through the printer’s software can also be beneficial if you notice any fading or streaking.
Keep your printer clean, both inside and out. Dust and debris can accumulate and interfere with the paper feed mechanism or other internal components. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the exterior. For the interior, especially around the paper path, a can of compressed air can be useful for blowing away any dust or paper fragments. Ensure the printer is turned off and unplugged before attempting any internal cleaning.
Finally, always use genuine Canon ink cartridges. While third-party or refilled cartridges might seem cheaper initially, they can sometimes lead to printing issues, damage to the print heads, or reduced print quality. Genuine cartridges are specifically designed to work with your Canon printer, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Storing ink cartridges properly, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, also helps maintain their quality until use.
Your Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Canon Printers Under 100
Navigating the vast landscape of printers can be a daunting task, especially when you’re working with a budget. Fortunately, Canon offers a compelling range of affordable and reliable printers that can meet the needs of most home users and small businesses without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when searching for the best Canon printers under 100, ensuring you make an informed decision that delivers both quality and value.
Understanding Your Printing Needs
Print Volume and Frequency
Before diving into specific models, assess how much you actually print. Are you an occasional printer, churning out a few pages a week for personal use, or do you have a higher volume requirement, perhaps for school projects or small business documents? Understanding your typical print volume is crucial because it directly impacts the ongoing cost of ink or toner and the longevity of the printer’s components. Printers designed for higher volumes often have more robust internal mechanisms and can handle more frequent use without overheating or experiencing wear and tear.
If your printing needs are minimal, a basic inkjet all-in-one might suffice. These models are generally less expensive upfront and offer good versatility with scanning and copying capabilities. However, if you anticipate printing hundreds of pages per month, consider printers that offer higher-capacity ink cartridges or even ink tank systems, even if they might push slightly above the $100 mark initially, as the long-term savings on ink can be substantial. For those seeking the best Canon printers under 100, it’s about balancing initial cost with the cost of ownership over time, factoring in your anticipated print frequency.
Print Quality: Text vs. Photos
Text Quality
For everyday document printing, such as reports, letters, and school assignments, sharp and crisp text is paramount. Canon is renowned for its excellent text quality, even in its more budget-friendly models. Look for printers with a good print resolution (measured in dots per inch or DPI) – higher DPI generally translates to sharper text. Inkjet printers, in general, can produce excellent text, especially those with pigment-based black ink, which tends to be more water-resistant and less prone to smudging than dye-based inks.
If your primary use is text-based documents, you might not need a printer with the absolute highest photo printing capabilities. Focus on models that advertise high-quality text output and consider reading reviews that specifically mention text clarity and sharpness. Some printers might offer different print modes, such as “draft” or “fast” modes for everyday printing and higher quality modes for more important documents. Understanding these options can help you conserve ink while still achieving satisfactory results.
Photo Quality
If you plan on printing photographs, photo quality becomes a much more significant consideration. This involves looking at printers that utilize dye-based inks, which tend to produce more vibrant and colorful photos than pigment-based inks. The number of ink cartridges also plays a role; printers with separate color cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow) plus a black cartridge often offer better color accuracy and a wider color gamut than those with tri-color cartridges where all colors are in one unit.
When evaluating photo printing capabilities within the under $100 price range, manage your expectations. While Canon offers excellent photo printers, achieving professional-grade photo prints often requires more advanced and expensive models. However, many Canon all-in-one printers can produce very pleasing results for casual photo printing, such as sharing with family and friends or creating personal scrapbooks. Look for specifications like “borderless printing” and reviews that comment on color reproduction and detail in photographs.
Connectivity Options
Wired vs. Wireless
The convenience of wireless printing is a major selling point for many users. Most Canon printers under $100 will offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to print from laptops, smartphones, and tablets without needing to connect via a USB cable. This is ideal for households with multiple devices or for shared office spaces. Wi-Fi connectivity often also enables mobile printing apps, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet without the need for a computer.
While Wi-Fi is incredibly convenient, don’t discount wired USB connectivity. For a single computer setup where mobility isn’t a concern, a USB connection is perfectly adequate and sometimes can offer a more stable connection. Some users might also prefer USB for the added security of knowing their printer is only directly connected to their own network. When choosing, consider how many devices you’ll want to print from and whether the ease of wireless access is a priority for your workflow.
Mobile Printing Capabilities
AirPrint and Mopria Support
Modern printers often integrate with mobile printing standards like Apple’s AirPrint and the Mopria Print Service. If you own an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, AirPrint support is a must-have for seamless printing directly from your devices without requiring any special apps or drivers. Similarly, Mopria certification ensures compatibility with a wide range of Android devices, allowing for effortless printing from your smartphone or tablet. These features significantly enhance the usability of your printer in a mobile-centric world.
When looking at the best Canon printers under 100, prioritize models that explicitly mention support for these mobile printing standards. This will save you the hassle of installing additional software and troubleshooting connection issues. Many Canon PIXMA and MAXIFY series printers offer excellent mobile printing integration, making them ideal choices for those who rely heavily on their mobile devices for work or personal tasks.
All-in-One Functionality (Print, Scan, Copy)
Versatility for Home and Office
For most home and small office users, an all-in-one printer that can print, scan, and copy offers the best value and functionality. These devices consolidate multiple office machines into a single, compact unit, saving space and reducing costs. The ability to scan documents for digital archiving, make quick copies, and print reports makes an all-in-one printer a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks, from school projects to managing household paperwork.
When considering Canon printers under $100, most of the models available will be all-in-one inkjet printers. The main differences will lie in the speed of printing, the quality of the scanner, and the inclusion of additional features like automatic document feeders (ADF) for multi-page scanning and copying, or duplex printing (automatic two-sided printing). An ADF is a significant convenience for higher-volume copying or scanning tasks, though it might be a feature found on slightly higher-priced models.
Ink Costs and Cartridge Availability
Understanding Inkjet Technology
Inkjet printers, which are prevalent in the under $100 category, use liquid ink cartridges. These cartridges can be either dye-based or pigment-based, each with its own advantages. Dye-based inks generally produce more vibrant colors and are excellent for photos, but they can be more prone to smudging and fading over time. Pigment-based inks, particularly for black ink, offer greater sharpness and durability, making them ideal for text documents and archival purposes.
When purchasing an inkjet printer, it’s crucial to consider the cost and availability of replacement ink cartridges. Canon offers a range of ink cartridge sizes, from standard yield to high-yield (XL) options. High-yield cartridges generally offer a lower cost per page, which can be a significant saving if you print frequently. Always check the prices of replacement cartridges for any printer you’re considering, as the upfront cost of the printer is only part of the total ownership expense.
Ink Tank vs. Cartridge Systems
While traditional inkjet printers use replaceable cartridges, Canon also offers ink tank systems (like their MegaTank or EcoTank-style printers, though these are typically above the $100 mark). These systems use refillable ink tanks that you fill from bottles. While the initial printer cost might be higher, the cost per page with ink tank systems is significantly lower, making them a very economical choice for high-volume printing.
For the under $100 budget, you’ll primarily be looking at cartridge-based systems. However, it’s worth being aware of the ink tank technology for future reference, as it represents a major shift in printing economics. When comparing cartridge systems, look for models that use individual color cartridges rather than a single tri-color cartridge. This means if one color runs out, you only need to replace that specific cartridge, rather than the entire unit, which is a more cost-effective approach. Researching the cost of genuine Canon ink cartridges for the specific model you are interested in is a critical step in finding the best Canon printers under 100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Canon printers a good choice for budget-conscious buyers?
Canon offers a wide range of printers that are known for their reliability, user-friendly interfaces, and excellent print quality, even in their more affordable models. They often strike a good balance between initial purchase price and ongoing running costs, making them a popular choice for home users and small offices looking to manage their expenses.
Furthermore, Canon’s commitment to innovation means that even their budget-friendly printers often come with features found in more expensive models, such as wireless connectivity, mobile printing capabilities, and efficient ink management systems. This allows users to get a lot of functionality without breaking the bank.
What types of Canon printers are typically available for under $100?
For under $100, you’ll primarily find Canon’s Inkjet printers, which are versatile and suitable for a variety of tasks. This category often includes all-in-one (AIO) multifunction printers that combine printing, scanning, and copying functionalities. These are ideal for home offices or students who need a device that can handle multiple needs.
You might also find some single-function inkjet printers, focusing purely on printing. While less common in the sub-$100 range, these are perfect if you only require printing and want to maximize print quality or speed for that specific function.
Are Canon printers under $100 suitable for printing photos?
Many Canon inkjet printers under $100 are capable of producing decent quality photos, especially if they utilize Canon’s ChromaLife100 ink system. These systems are designed to produce vibrant colors and sharp details, making them suitable for casual photo printing or for school projects.
However, for professional-grade photo printing, you might need to look at higher-end models or dedicated photo printers, as the ink cartridges and print heads in budget models might not offer the same level of color accuracy, gamut, or longevity. Nevertheless, for everyday photo needs, these printers can certainly suffice.
What should I consider regarding ink costs for Canon printers under $100?
When purchasing a Canon printer under $100, it’s crucial to factor in the ongoing cost of replacement ink cartridges. While the initial printer price is low, some budget Canon models might use individual ink cartridges, which can be more cost-effective if you only need to replace one color. Others might use combined tri-color cartridges, which can lead to wasted ink if only one color runs out.
It’s also worth investigating whether the printer supports XL or high-yield ink cartridges, as these often offer a lower cost per page. Some Canon models are also compatible with third-party ink, which can be cheaper, but be aware that using non-Canon ink may void your printer’s warranty and could potentially affect print quality.
What are the common features found in Canon printers under $100?
Common features in this price range include wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), allowing you to print from various devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets without needing a physical cable. Many also offer mobile printing apps, such as Canon’s own PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, which simplifies printing from your mobile devices.
Other expected features often include scanning and copying capabilities (in AIO models), an automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning multiple pages quickly, and sometimes basic duplex (two-sided) printing. Some might also boast compact designs, making them suitable for limited desk space.
Are Canon printers under $100 reliable for everyday use?
Yes, Canon printers generally have a reputation for reliability, and even their entry-level models are built to withstand regular home or small office use. They are designed with durable components and undergo rigorous testing to ensure consistent performance for printing documents, school assignments, and casual photos.
While they might not offer the same heavy-duty capabilities as professional-grade machines, for typical everyday printing needs, Canon printers under $100 are a dependable choice. Proper maintenance, such as running the print head cleaning cycles periodically and using quality ink, will help ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
What is the typical warranty period for Canon printers under $100?
Most new Canon printers, including those priced under $100, typically come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty. This usually covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase.
It’s always recommended to check the specific warranty details provided by Canon or the retailer at the time of purchase, as warranty terms can sometimes vary slightly depending on the model and region. This warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that you’re covered if any manufacturing issues arise with your new printer.
Final Verdict
Navigating the vast printer market can be a daunting task, especially when you’re seeking quality and value. Our in-depth reviews and comprehensive buying guide have highlighted that achieving excellent print results without breaking the bank is entirely possible, thanks to Canon’s impressive lineup of affordable options. By understanding your specific printing needs, from everyday document printing to photo reproduction, and considering key features like ink efficiency, connectivity, and print speed, you can confidently select a Canon printer that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, all while staying well within your budget.
Ultimately, the pursuit of the best Canon printers under 100 dollars leads us to a clear conclusion: exceptional print performance and reliable functionality are readily accessible for budget-conscious consumers. Whether you prioritize crystal-clear text for reports, vibrant colors for your cherished photographs, or seamless wireless connectivity for your smart devices, Canon offers a range of printers designed to deliver outstanding value. Make informed choices based on the insights provided, and invest in a printer that will serve you faithfully for years to come, proving that affordability and quality can indeed go hand-in-hand.