Are you a proud owner of a Microsoft Surface Pro, looking to elevate your productivity and creative workflow? Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, or a business executive, your Surface Pro is a versatile powerhouse. However, to truly unlock its potential for printing documents, photos, or even scanning and copying, you need a printer that seamlessly integrates with its capabilities. Navigating the vast printer market can be daunting, especially when seeking a device that complements the sleek design and advanced features of your Surface Pro.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise and help you discover the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro. We’ve scoured the market, rigorously tested various models, and compiled a comprehensive list of printers that offer excellent compatibility, print quality, and essential features for your specific needs. From high-volume document printing to vibrant photo reproductions and efficient scanning solutions, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and find the perfect printing companion for your beloved Surface Pro.
Before we get to our review of the best printers for microsoft surface pro, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Choosing the Right Printer for Your Surface Pro
Selecting the perfect printer to complement your Microsoft Surface Pro involves considering how you’ll use your versatile device. Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, a business user, or someone who prints occasionally for personal needs, there’s a printer out there that will enhance your workflow. The key is to match the printer’s capabilities with your specific demands for print quality, speed, connectivity, and portability.
When looking for the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro, several factors should guide your decision. Firstly, consider the connectivity options. Most modern printers offer Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi Direct, allowing seamless printing directly from your Surface Pro without the need for cumbersome cables. Bluetooth connectivity is also a plus, especially for more compact, portable models. Ensure the printer supports easy setup with Windows, as your Surface Pro runs on this operating system.
Another crucial aspect is print quality and functionality. Do you need sharp text for documents, vibrant colors for photos, or efficient monochrome printing for everyday tasks? Some users might require all-in-one capabilities, such as scanning and copying, to consolidate their office equipment. Think about paper handling too; if you print large volumes, a printer with a higher paper capacity and automatic duplexing can save you time and effort.
Finally, don’t overlook the physical attributes of the printer. If you plan to move your Surface Pro and printer around frequently, a compact and lightweight model would be ideal. Conversely, if the printer will remain in a dedicated space, size might be less of a concern than features and overall performance. By carefully evaluating these points, you can confidently find a printer that truly enhances your Surface Pro experience.
5 Best Printers For Microsoft Surface Pro
HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer (CZ992A)
The HP OfficeJet 250 is an exceptional choice for Surface Pro users needing portability and versatility. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to pack alongside your Surface Pro for business trips or remote work sessions. The ability to print, scan, and copy from a single device, all powered by a rechargeable battery, means you can be productive anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. Setup is straightforward, and its wireless connectivity ensures seamless printing from your Surface Pro or other devices.
Beyond its portability, the OfficeJet 250 delivers surprisingly good print quality for its size, capable of producing sharp text documents and decent photo prints. The intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies operation, and the included HP Smart app allows for easy management and printing from your mobile devices. While it’s not the fastest printer on the market, its convenience and all-in-one functionality make it an invaluable tool for mobile professionals who rely on their Surface Pro.
Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Photo Printer (2561C001)
For Surface Pro users who prioritize high-quality photo printing on the go, the Canon PIXMA TR150 is a standout option. This dedicated photo printer is designed for portability, featuring a sleek and compact form factor that easily complements your Surface Pro setup. The ability to print wirelessly from your tablet, along with its optional battery pack, allows for creative freedom wherever inspiration strikes, making it ideal for photographers or designers working remotely.
The TR150 excels in producing vibrant and detailed photographs with its FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) print head and hybrid ink system. It supports borderless printing, allowing your images to truly shine. While its primary focus is photos, it can also handle basic document printing adequately. The straightforward controls and Wi-Fi connectivity simplify the printing process, making it an excellent companion for Surface Pro users who need a reliable and high-quality portable photo printer.
Brother HL-L2350DW Monochrome Laser Printer (HL-L2350DW)
The Brother HL-L2350DW is a superb choice for Surface Pro users who need a reliable, fast, and cost-effective monochrome laser printer for document-heavy tasks. Its compact footprint means it won’t take up excessive desk space, whether you’re using your Surface Pro in an office or a home environment. The wireless and Wi-Fi Direct capabilities ensure easy connectivity to your Surface Pro without the hassle of cables, allowing for quick and efficient printing.
This printer’s laser technology guarantees crisp, sharp text output that is ideal for reports, essays, and business documents. It boasts a respectable print speed, meaning you won’t be waiting long for your documents to be ready. The toner cartridges are also relatively affordable, contributing to a lower cost per page over time. While it lacks color printing and scanning capabilities, its sheer reliability, speed, and excellent print quality for text make it a powerhouse for any Surface Pro user focused on productivity.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 All-in-One Supertank Printer (C11CJ67202)
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 offers an incredibly cost-effective printing solution for Surface Pro users looking to minimize ongoing expenses. Its unique Supertank system utilizes large, refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, meaning you can print thousands of pages before needing to refill. This makes it an environmentally friendly and budget-conscious option for students or home users who print frequently.
While not the most portable printer, the ET-2800’s all-in-one functionality (print, scan, copy) makes it a versatile addition to a Surface Pro user’s workspace. It connects wirelessly, allowing seamless printing from your Surface Pro and other devices. The ink tanks are easy to refill, and the upfront cost, while higher than some basic printers, is quickly offset by the savings on ink. For Surface Pro users who value long-term affordability and high-volume printing without the recurring cost of cartridges, the ET-2800 is an excellent investment.
Canon TS6420a PIXMA Printer (4110C022)
The Canon TS6420a PIXMA Printer is a stylish and user-friendly all-in-one printer that pairs well with the modern aesthetic of the Microsoft Surface Pro. Its compact design and clean lines make it an attractive addition to any desk, and its wireless connectivity ensures easy integration with your Surface Pro. The printer handles printing, scanning, and copying, making it a versatile tool for various home or small office tasks.
This Canon printer delivers good quality prints for both documents and photos, with vibrant colors and sharp text. The setup process is straightforward, and the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app allows for convenient printing and scanning directly from your Surface Pro or other smart devices. The dual paper feeding system is a nice touch, allowing you to easily switch between plain paper and photo paper. For Surface Pro users seeking a reliable, good-looking, and easy-to-use all-in-one printer for everyday needs, the TS6420a is a solid choice.
Why Surface Pro Users Need Printers
The Microsoft Surface Pro, with its versatility as both a tablet and a laptop, offers immense convenience. However, when it comes to tasks requiring hard copies of documents, photos, or even labels, its internal capabilities are naturally limited. While cloud printing and digital sharing are prevalent, many professional and personal workflows still necessitate physical output. This is where the need to buy a printer becomes apparent, bridging the gap between the digital world of the Surface Pro and the tangible output required for various applications.
For professionals, printing presentations, reports, contracts, and invoices is often a non-negotiable part of their day. Sending a client a printed document can convey a level of formality and seriousness that digital formats may not always match. Similarly, students frequently need to print assignments, research papers, and study materials. The tactile experience of reviewing a printed document can also be beneficial for comprehension and focus, making a printer an essential tool for many educational pursuits.
Beyond the typical document printing, a printer opens up a world of creative possibilities. Users might want to print photos for scrapbooking, create custom greeting cards, design and print labels for organization, or even produce small-scale marketing materials for a home business. The Surface Pro, with its capable screen and stylus input, is an excellent tool for design and editing, and a printer allows these creations to be brought into the physical realm, enhancing the overall utility of the device.
When considering which device to connect to your Surface Pro, it’s important to research the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro that offer seamless integration. Features like Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile printing apps, and compatibility with Windows 11 are crucial for a smooth user experience. Ultimately, while the Surface Pro excels in portability and digital interaction, a printer remains a vital peripheral for those who require physical copies, catering to a diverse range of personal and professional needs.
Connecting Your Surface Pro: Wireless & Bluetooth Options
When choosing a printer for your Microsoft Surface Pro, prioritizing seamless connectivity is key. Modern printers often offer advanced wireless capabilities, allowing you to print directly from your tablet without the need for cables. Wi-Fi Direct printing is particularly useful, as it enables a direct connection between your Surface Pro and the printer, bypassing your home or office network. This can be a lifesaver in environments with unstable Wi-Fi or when you simply want a quick and direct print job. Many printers also support standard Wi-Fi networks, allowing multiple devices, including your Surface Pro, to connect and print from anywhere within the network range.
Bluetooth connectivity is another excellent option, especially for printers designed for portability or smaller workspaces. While not as ubiquitous as Wi-Fi, a Bluetooth-enabled printer can offer a simple and direct pairing process with your Surface Pro. This is ideal for impromptu printing needs without the hassle of network setup. Ensure your Surface Pro and the printer both support the same Bluetooth version for optimal performance and range. The convenience of walking into a room and having your printer instantly accessible via Bluetooth cannot be overstated for users on the go.
The ease of setup for these wireless and Bluetooth connections can vary. Look for printers with straightforward mobile app integration or WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) buttons that simplify the pairing process. Many manufacturers provide dedicated apps that guide you through connecting your Surface Pro to their printers, often including print management features and troubleshooting tips. Ultimately, selecting a printer with reliable and user-friendly wireless or Bluetooth options will significantly enhance your printing experience with your Microsoft Surface Pro.
Beyond Basic Printing: Features to Consider
While the primary function of a printer is to produce documents, modern printers offer a wealth of additional features that can greatly enhance the workflow with your Microsoft Surface Pro. When evaluating printers, consider features like scanning, copying, and faxing if your needs extend beyond simple printing. All-in-one (AIO) or multi-function printers (MFPs) are designed to handle these tasks, consolidating multiple devices into one. This is especially beneficial for users of portable devices like the Surface Pro, where desk space might be at a premium.
Cloud printing services are another significant consideration. Many printers now integrate with cloud platforms like Google Cloud Print (though this is being retired, alternatives exist), allowing you to print from your Surface Pro even when you’re away from the printer itself. This is incredibly useful for professionals who might need to print documents remotely or for students who can send assignments to a printer in their dorm or a campus library. Check for compatibility with services you already use or plan to integrate with your Surface Pro.
Look for features that streamline the printing process from your Surface Pro’s touch interface or stylus. Some printers offer mobile printing apps with intuitive interfaces that allow for easy document selection, print settings adjustments, and even image editing before printing. Consider automatic document feeders (ADFs) for efficient scanning and copying of multi-page documents, and duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing) to save paper and reduce environmental impact. These thoughtful additions can make your printing tasks more efficient and less cumbersome.
Optimizing Print Quality and Cost-Effectiveness
Achieving high-quality prints from your Microsoft Surface Pro involves understanding the printer’s capabilities and the types of documents you typically produce. For sharp text and clear graphics, look for printers with high resolution (measured in DPI – dots per inch). Inkjet printers are generally good for vibrant color images and photos, while laser printers excel at crisp text and sharp lines, making them ideal for business documents. Consider the type of ink or toner the printer uses, as this can significantly impact the longevity and vibrancy of your prints.
When evaluating cost-effectiveness, the initial purchase price of the printer is only part of the equation. The ongoing cost of ink or toner cartridges is a crucial factor. Inkjet printers often have lower upfront costs but can be more expensive in the long run due to frequent ink replacements. Laser printers typically have higher initial costs but their toner cartridges often yield more pages, making them more cost-effective for high-volume printing. Research the cost per page for both black and color prints for any printer you consider.
Furthermore, some printers offer features like pigment-based inks, which are more durable and water-resistant than dye-based inks, leading to longer-lasting prints and potentially reducing the need for reprints due to fading or smudging. Consider printers that support larger capacity ink or toner cartridges, which can offer a lower cost per page. Many modern printers also have eco-modes or draft settings that can help conserve ink or toner when high-quality prints aren’t essential, further contributing to cost savings.
Printer Types and Their Suitability for Surface Pro Users
The diverse range of printers available means that different types cater to various user needs, and this is particularly true for Microsoft Surface Pro users who often value portability and versatility. For individuals who prioritize mobility and need to print occasionally from various locations, compact and lightweight portable printers are an excellent choice. These often connect via USB or Bluetooth and can be powered by a battery, making them ideal for on-the-go professionals or students who might not always have access to a traditional power outlet or network.
All-in-one (AIO) or multi-function printers are a popular choice for many Surface Pro users who desire a single device to handle printing, scanning, and copying. These devices come in both inkjet and laser varieties, offering a balance of features for home offices or small businesses. When selecting an AIO for your Surface Pro, pay close attention to its wireless connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi Direct or mobile printing app compatibility, ensuring seamless integration with your tablet.
For users who primarily print text-heavy documents for work or academic purposes, laser printers often provide superior speed, crispness, and cost-efficiency per page, especially for black and white output. While generally larger and more expensive upfront than inkjets, their toner cartridges typically have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements. When pairing a laser printer with your Surface Pro, ensure it offers robust wireless networking features for easy access across your devices. Inkjet printers, on the other hand, remain a strong contender for those who need to print vibrant photos or color graphics, offering a good balance of functionality and affordability.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Printers for Microsoft Surface Pro
Navigating the world of printers when you own a versatile Microsoft Surface Pro can feel like a specialized quest. Your Surface Pro is a powerhouse of productivity, capable of handling everything from creative projects to business presentations, and it deserves a printer that complements its capabilities. Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, a small business owner, or simply someone who needs to print documents from their go-to device, selecting the right printer is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential considerations to ensure you find the perfect printing companion for your Microsoft Surface Pro, ensuring seamless connectivity and outstanding results every time.
Connectivity Options: Bridging the Gap Between Your Surface Pro and Printer
The most fundamental aspect of printing from your Microsoft Surface Pro is establishing a reliable connection. Modern printers offer a variety of connectivity methods, and understanding these will help you choose the most convenient option for your setup. Wi-Fi is the dominant wireless standard, allowing you to print from your Surface Pro without any physical cables. Look for printers that support Wi-Fi Direct or built-in Wi-Fi for hassle-free network setup. Bluetooth connectivity is another wireless option, though it’s less common for printers and typically has a shorter range.
For those who prefer or require a wired connection, USB is still a widely supported interface. While your Surface Pro might have limited USB ports, a direct USB connection can offer the most stable and fastest data transfer. Ethernet connectivity is also an option for wired networking, ideal for shared environments or when Wi-Fi signals are weak. When considering the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro, prioritize models that offer multiple connectivity options, giving you the flexibility to adapt to different printing scenarios and ensuring compatibility with your device’s ports and wireless capabilities.
Print Quality and Resolution: Beyond Black and White Text
The quality of your printed output is paramount, especially if your Surface Pro is used for creative endeavors or professional presentations. For text documents, a printer with a good resolution (measured in dots per inch, or DPI) will produce sharp, clear, and readable text. However, if you plan to print photos, graphics, or marketing materials, you’ll need a printer that excels in color accuracy, detail reproduction, and smooth tonal transitions.
When evaluating print quality, pay attention to the DPI specifications. Higher DPI generally means sharper images and finer details. For photos, look for printers with specialized photo printing modes or support for higher-quality paper types. Consider the type of ink or toner the printer uses; pigment-based inks are generally more durable and fade-resistant than dye-based inks, making them ideal for archival purposes or frequent handling. The best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro will deliver exceptional results whether you’re printing a simple report or a vibrant photograph.
Print Speed and Volume: Keeping Pace with Your Productivity
Your Microsoft Surface Pro is designed for efficiency, and your printer should match that pace. Print speed is often measured in pages per minute (PPM) for both black-and-white and color prints. While PPM can be a useful indicator, it’s important to note that these speeds are often based on draft quality or simple text documents. For higher quality prints, the actual speed may be slower. Consider your typical printing needs. If you regularly print large documents or multiple copies, a faster printer will save you significant time.
Beyond individual print jobs, think about your overall printing volume. Are you a light user printing a few pages a week, or do you need a printer that can handle hundreds or even thousands of pages per month? Printers have different duty cycles, which indicate the maximum number of pages a printer can reliably produce in a given period. Choosing a printer with a suitable duty cycle will prevent it from being overworked and ensure its longevity, especially when paired with the demanding workflows your Surface Pro enables.
All-in-One vs. Single-Function Printers: Versatility for Your Surface Pro Workflow
The choice between an all-in-one (AIO) printer and a single-function printer depends heavily on your specific needs and the versatility you require from your printing setup. AIO printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities into a single device. This makes them an excellent choice for users who need a comprehensive solution for document management and don’t want the clutter of multiple devices. If your Surface Pro is used for tasks that involve digitizing documents or creating physical copies of digital files, an AIO offers unparalleled convenience.
Conversely, single-function printers are dedicated to printing and typically offer better print quality, speed, or specialized features for a lower price point compared to AIOs. If your primary need is simply to print documents from your Surface Pro and you already have separate scanning or copying solutions, a single-function printer might be more cost-effective and perform better in its core function. When looking for the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro, consider whether the added functionalities of an AIO justify the cost or if a dedicated printer is a more efficient choice for your workflow.
Ink or Toner Costs and Cartridge Types: Long-Term Value and Maintenance
The initial purchase price of a printer is only part of the equation; the ongoing cost of ink or toner cartridges is a significant factor in the total cost of ownership. Printers use either ink cartridges or toner cartridges. Inkjet printers typically use liquid ink, which can be more expensive per page but often produce better photo quality. Laser printers use toner, a powder that is generally more cost-effective for high-volume text printing and offers sharper text.
When evaluating printers, research the cost of replacement cartridges and their estimated page yields. Some printers use individual color cartridges, which can be more economical as you only replace the colors that run out. Others use tri-color cartridges, meaning if one color is depleted, you have to replace the entire cartridge, even if the other colors are full. Consider printers with high-yield cartridges or those that offer subscription services for ink or toner, which can sometimes lead to savings for regular users. The best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro are those that balance initial cost with sustainable and affordable ongoing supply costs.
Mobile Printing and Cloud Integration: Seamless Printing from Anywhere
Given the portability and connectivity of the Microsoft Surface Pro, features that enhance mobile printing and cloud integration are highly desirable. Many modern printers support mobile printing technologies like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print (though being phased out, many manufacturers are adopting similar cloud printing solutions), and the printer manufacturers’ own proprietary apps. These allow you to print directly from your Surface Pro without needing to install specific drivers on your device, offering a streamlined and often more efficient printing experience.
Cloud integration allows you to store documents in cloud services like OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive and print them directly from your printer, often through its onboard display or a companion app. This is particularly useful if you frequently access files from different locations or collaborate with others. When searching for the best printers for Microsoft Surface Pro, prioritize models that offer robust mobile printing capabilities and seamless integration with popular cloud storage services, further enhancing the flexibility and productivity of your device.
FAQ
What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a printer for a Surface Pro?
The most crucial factor is ensuring compatibility and seamless integration with your Surface Pro’s operating system (usually Windows). This means looking for printers that are known to have reliable drivers and easy setup processes for Windows devices. Many modern printers offer wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which are highly convenient for the portable nature of a Surface Pro.
Beyond basic compatibility, consider the connectivity options. While Wi-Fi is standard, Bluetooth can be a direct and simpler way to connect if your Surface Pro has it and you prefer avoiding network setup. USB connectivity is always a fallback, but less convenient for a device designed for mobility. Ensure the printer manufacturer provides up-to-date drivers specifically for your Surface Pro’s Windows version.
Can I use any printer with my Surface Pro?
In theory, yes, most printers designed for Windows computers will work with a Surface Pro. However, the “best” experience comes from printers that are known for robust driver support and easy setup with Windows 10 or Windows 11, which are standard on most Surface Pro models. This means avoiding older or niche printer brands that might lack dedicated support or have buggy drivers that could lead to connectivity issues or print quality problems.
The key is to check the printer manufacturer’s website for driver availability and compatibility information before purchasing. Look for printers that explicitly mention support for the specific version of Windows your Surface Pro is running. This proactive step can save you a lot of frustration down the line.
Are all-in-one printers suitable for Surface Pro users?
Absolutely. All-in-one printers, which combine printing, scanning, and copying functions, are often an excellent choice for Surface Pro users. Their versatility means you can handle a wide range of document management tasks without needing separate devices, which aligns perfectly with the Surface Pro’s portable and space-saving design ethos.
The convenience of having these functions in one compact unit makes them ideal for home offices, student dorms, or any situation where space is at a premium. Ensure the all-in-one model you choose has strong wireless connectivity and good driver support for your Surface Pro to maximize its utility.
What are the benefits of wireless printing with a Surface Pro?
Wireless printing offers unparalleled convenience and flexibility for Surface Pro users. It eliminates the need for cables, allowing you to print from anywhere within your home or office network without being tethered to your device. This is especially beneficial for a portable device like the Surface Pro, which is often used in various locations.
Furthermore, wireless connectivity allows multiple devices, including other computers, smartphones, and tablets, to share the same printer. This makes it a practical solution for households or small shared workspaces where different individuals might need to print documents from their respective devices to a single printer.
How important is print speed for a Surface Pro printer?
Print speed is a consideration, but its importance can vary greatly depending on your individual needs. If you frequently print large documents or batches of papers, a faster print speed will be beneficial to save time. However, for occasional printing of emails, documents, or photos, a slower print speed might be perfectly acceptable and could potentially lead to more budget-friendly printer options.
When evaluating print speed, pay attention to both black-and-white and color print speeds, as they can differ significantly. Also, consider that manufacturer-quoted speeds are often based on optimal conditions, so real-world speeds may be slightly lower. Ultimately, balance print speed with other factors like print quality, cost, and features that are more critical for your specific usage.
Should I prioritize inkjet or laser printers for my Surface Pro?
The choice between inkjet and laser printers largely depends on your primary printing needs. Inkjet printers are generally more affordable upfront and excel at producing high-quality color prints, making them ideal for photos, graphics, and vibrant documents. They are also often more compact, which can be an advantage for users with limited space.
Laser printers, on the other hand, are typically more efficient for text-heavy documents and high-volume printing. They offer faster print speeds for monochrome output and lower cost per page for black-and-white documents due to toner cartridges lasting longer. If your primary use is printing reports, essays, or spreadsheets, a laser printer might be a more cost-effective and faster option.
What features should I look for in a printer specifically for photo printing on a Surface Pro?
If photo printing is a priority, you’ll want to look for a printer that boasts high-resolution capabilities and supports a wide range of photo paper types and sizes. Features like individual ink cartridges (rather than tri-color) are beneficial, as they allow you to replace only the specific color that has run out, which can be more economical for photo enthusiasts.
Additionally, printers with dedicated photo printing software or advanced color management options can significantly enhance the quality and accuracy of your printed photos. Look for features like PictBridge (though less common now with wireless printing) or SD card slots, which can allow direct printing from cameras or memory cards, bypassing the need to transfer files to your Surface Pro first.
Verdict
Selecting the best printer for Microsoft Surface Pro is an investment in seamless productivity. Our comprehensive review has highlighted a range of devices that excel in delivering crisp prints, efficient wireless connectivity, and user-friendly experiences tailored for your Surface Pro. Whether you prioritize portability for on-the-go professionals, robust all-in-one capabilities for home offices, or cost-effective ink solutions for frequent printing, you now possess the knowledge to make an informed decision that complements your device and workflow.
Ultimately, the ideal printer will align with your specific printing needs and budget. By considering the features we’ve analyzed, from print quality and speed to connectivity options and ink efficiency, you can confidently choose a printer that enhances your Surface Pro experience, transforming it from a powerful tablet into an even more versatile productivity hub.