5 Best Cheapest Printer To Run 2025 in the UK

The HP DeskJet 2810e All-in-One Printer is designed as a budget-friendly option for home users seeking basic printing tasks. It features wireless connectivity, allowing for easy setup and operation via a user-friendly print app. The printer supports print, scan, and copy functionalities, making it versatile for everyday needs. One notable strength is the inclusion of 3 months of HP's Instant Ink service, which can help reduce printing costs by delivering ink before it runs out.

However, the printer's page yield is moderate, and its print speeds are relatively slow, with 7.5 pages per minute for monochrome and 5.5 ppm for color, which might not suit users with high-volume printing requirements. The ink type used is standard cartridges, which could become costly over time if not managed with a subscription service like Instant Ink. Duplex printing is available, which is a plus for saving paper, but it may not perform as efficiently as more advanced models.

In terms of energy efficiency, the printer is made with 60% recycled plastic, aligning with eco-friendly practices. Its connectivity options are somewhat limited to Wi-Fi, as it lacks modern interfaces like Ethernet or advanced mobile printing features. The HP DeskJet 2810e is a practical choice for users with light to moderate printing needs who are looking for an inexpensive, easy-to-use printer. It’s most beneficial for those who can take advantage of its Instant Ink service to manage ink expenses efficiently. The product's compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for small spaces, while the reliable wireless connection ensures consistent performance.

The Canon PIXMA G550 is a single-function photo printer designed for users seeking economical printing with high-volume needs. One of its standout features is the six dye-based inks, including red and grey, which offer improved photo print quality with vibrant color and contrast, making it suitable for those who prioritize image quality. The high-volume ink tanks are another strong point, significantly reducing the cost per print. Each set of ink bottles can produce roughly 3,800 4x6 photo prints, minimizing the need for frequent refills.

The printer is easy to maintain, thanks to its front-facing ink tanks and user-friendly refill system. The inclusion of user-replaceable parts like the print head and maintenance tank also reduces potential downtime. Energy efficiency is addressed with an Auto Power On/Off feature, which can contribute to energy savings over time.

Connectivity options are robust, with Wi-Fi support enabling printing from various devices, including smartphones and tablets via the Canon PRINT App, Mopria, or AirPrint. However, it's worth noting that the printer is somewhat limited by its monochrome and color print speeds, both at 3.9 pages per minute, which may be slower than desired for some users.

Duplex or double-sided printing is available, enhancing its functionality for everyday use. The printer's compact size and lightweight design make it suitable for smaller spaces, though it is primarily print-only without scanning or copying capabilities. With a maximum color print resolution of 4800x1200 DPI, it delivers decent quality, but it's best suited for those focused on photo printing rather than text-heavy documents. The Canon PIXMA G550 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users with a focus on high-quality photo printing and low operating costs.

The Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 is a compact all-in-one printer that offers print, scan, and copy functions, making it versatile for home or small office use. This printer supports both Wi-Fi and wired connectivity, including Wi-Fi Direct, which allows you to print from your smartphone or tablet without needing a network. This flexibility is advantageous for those who frequently work from mobile devices.

In terms of running costs, the XP-7100 uses inkjet technology and is capable of producing high-resolution prints (up to 1200 x 2400 dpi for color), making it suitable for photo printing as well as documents. However, inkjet printers can sometimes have higher running costs compared to laser printers due to frequent ink cartridge replacements, especially if used for high-volume printing. The printer offers duplex printing, which saves on paper costs.

The printer's energy consumption is relatively low at 8.7 watts, which is a positive aspect for energy-conscious users. Despite its compact form, it has a decent input capacity of 200 sheets, which should suffice for moderate printing demands. The inclusion of a 10.9cm interactive touchscreen enhances the user experience by simplifying navigation and enabling PC-free photo printing directly from a memory card.

For those seeking a budget-friendly printer with low running costs, the XP-7100's ink usage and efficiency should be carefully considered against its features. Without subscription fees but decent connectivity options and photo printing capabilities, it is a good choice for users who prioritize versatility and convenience. Potential buyers should be mindful of the ink costs associated with frequent use.