We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
10 Best Printers For College Students
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Related Products
Up to 29% off
Recommended lists
Buying Guide for the Best Printers For College Students
Choosing a printer for college is all about matching your personal study needs with features that make your life easier. Think about how often you'll print, what kinds of things (like essays, photos, or handouts), how much space you have in your dorm or apartment, and how convenient or portable the printer should be. Don't forget to consider the long-term cost and how easy it is to get ink or toner. A printer that fits your work style can save you trips to campus print shops and help you stay organized throughout your studies.Printer Type (Inkjet vs. Laser)The two main types of printers are inkjet and laser. Inkjet printers use liquid ink and are often better for printing color documents and photos, while laser printers use toner and tend to be faster and more affordable for high-volume text printing. If you expect to print a lot of reports or essays, a laser printer may be better because it's faster and usually more cost-effective per page. If your work includes photos, graphics, or color presentations, an inkjet printer will provide better color quality. Consider what you print most often to decide which type fits you best.
Print Speed (Pages Per Minute)Print speed tells you how many pages the printer can produce in one minute. For students who print lots of notes or assignments last-minute, a faster print speed means less waiting. Typical speeds range from about 5 to over 20 pages per minute. Slow speeds (under 8 ppm) may be fine if you only print small amounts rarely, while higher speeds (15 ppm or more) are helpful if you print large batches more frequently. Choose a speed that matches your patience and printing habits.
Print Quality (DPI)DPI stands for dots per inch and measures how sharp or detailed your prints look. Higher DPI means clearer text and images, which is important if you print photos or detailed charts, but less critical for simple homework assignments. Standard quality for most college needs is around 600x600 DPI, which is sufficient for clear text and simple graphics. Go higher if you value photo quality or plan to use the printer for creative projects.
Multifunction Features (All-in-One)Some printers also scan and copy documents (and occasionally fax) making them 'all-in-one' devices. If you need to digitize notes, make copies of study materials, or send paperwork for group projects, an all-in-one printer is very convenient. If you never need these features, a simple printer model will save space and be easier to set up. Think about your typical tasks—more features are good if you use them, otherwise, keep it simple.
Connectivity (USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)How your printer connects to your computer, phone, or tablet is very important for ease of use. USB connections are reliable for one computer, while wireless options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth allow you to print from multiple devices and even your smartphone without plugging in. If you want to print from anywhere in your room or share the printer with roommates, go for a model with wireless connectivity. Otherwise, a USB-only printer is straightforward if you only print from one device.
Size and PortabilityCollege rooms are often small, so the size of your printer matters. Some printers are compact and easy to fit on a desk or shelf, while others are much larger. If space is tight or if you want to move your printer between home and campus, consider a portable or small-footprint model. Prioritize size if you have limited space, but if you’ll set the printer in one spot and never move it, size may be less of a concern.
Ink/Toner Cost and AvailabilityBeyond the printer price, you’ll keep spending money on ink or toner. Some printers use high-yield cartridges that need less frequent replacement, while others require more regular changes. Before buying, check how readily you can get replacement cartridges and how much they cost. If you print a lot, look for models with economical, high-capacity cartridges. If you print rarely, cartridge cost and longevity may matter less.
Duplex Printing (Double-Sided Printing)Duplex printing lets your printer automatically print on both sides of the paper, saving both time and paper. This is useful for big assignments or study notes. If you print a lot of multi-page documents, this feature keeps things tidy and efficient. If your printer doesn't have it, you can still print double-sided by flipping the paper manually, but it’s less convenient.