You need a printer that won’t break the bank, but you also want reliable performance for homework, bills, and occasional photos. The good news: there are excellent printers under $100 that deliver crisp text, vibrant colors, and wireless convenience. We have reviewed five top models from Canon, HP, and Brother to help you choose the right one for your home or small office. Whether you need basic printing or a feature-rich all-in-one, these budget-friendly options prove you don’t have to spend a fortune for quality. For more guidance, browse our printer category page for additional reviews and comparisons.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Budget Printer

Even under $100, print quality can vary. Models like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 use a hybrid ink system for sharp text and vivid photos, while the HP Envy 6155 offers true-to-screen color technology. Consider what you print most: documents, school projects, or photos. Speed matters if you often print multiple pages; the Brother Work Smart 1360 leads at up to 16 pages per minute in black.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

Wireless printing is standard on all these models. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) ensures stable connections, and dedicated apps like the HP Smart App or Canon PRINT make setup simple. Look for a user-friendly control panel: the HP Envy 6155 features a 2.4-inch color touchscreen, while the Canon PIXMA TS6520 has a compact OLED display. If you prefer mobile printing, ensure the printer supports your device.

Running Costs and Ink Efficiency

Ink expenses can add up quickly. Many budget printers now offer subscription services like HP Instant Ink, which delivers ink automatically and can save up to 50%. Canon and Brother printers use individual ink cartridges, letting you replace only the color that runs out. Automatic duplex printing (two-sided) reduces paper waste and is available on the Canon PIXMA TS4320, Canon PIXMA TS6520, HP Envy 6155, and Brother Work Smart 1360.

Size and Design

Space is often limited in home offices. The Canon PIXMA TS4320 has a compact footprint, while the HP DeskJet 4355 is slim and fits on a small desk. The Brother Work Smart 1360 includes a 150-sheet paper tray and a 20-sheet automatic document feeder, making it ideal for higher-volume scanning and copying despite its compact size. For more on printer design and features, check our Canon printer roundup and Epson printer guide.

Final Thoughts

After evaluating these five affordable printers, we believe the best choice depends on your specific needs. For a balance of print quality, wireless reliability, and low upfront cost, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 – Wireless Color Inkjet Printer is an excellent value for everyday home use. If you need faster printing, a larger paper tray, and advanced scanning features, the Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet is a solid workhorse for a small home office. Both models deliver reliable performance without exceeding your budget, making them smart picks for 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which printer under $100 is best for photo printing?

The Canon PIXMA TS6520 and Canon PIXMA TS4320 both produce vibrant borderless photos thanks to their hybrid ink system. For the best color accuracy, the HP Envy 6155 uses HP’s P3 technology to match on-screen colors closely.

Are wireless printers under $100 reliable?

Yes, all the models we reviewed feature dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connections. The HP DeskJet 4355 and HP Envy 6155 even include automatic connection troubleshooting. For best results, place your printer near your router or use the 5GHz band if available.

Can I save money on ink with a budget printer?

Absolutely. HP offers a 3-month trial of Instant Ink with the DeskJet 4355 and Envy 6155, which can save up to 50% on ink after the trial. Canon and Brother printers use individual cartridges, so you only replace the color that runs out. Using automatic duplex printing also cuts paper costs.

Do printers under $100 support scanning and copying?

All five printers in this guide are all-in-one models with print, scan, and copy functions. The Brother Work Smart 1360 includes a 20-sheet automatic document feeder, making multi-page scanning and copying much easier. The HP DeskJet 4355 also has a 35-sheet ADF for similar convenience.