Best Ink Printers Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Navigating the world of home and office printing can be a daunting task, but finding the right ink printer is crucial for everything from school reports to business invoices. We’ve spent weeks testing, printing, and evaluating the top models available in the UK to bring you a definitive list of the best performers. After rigorous comparison, we’ve crowned the HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 All-in-One Wireless Printer as our top pick. It strikes an exceptional balance of speed, all-in-one functionality, and user-friendly setup, making it the most versatile and reliable choice for the modern home office.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Ink Printers Uk

#1 HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 All-in-One Wireless Printer – Best for: Overall Home Office Productivity

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 All-in-One Wireless Printer immediately impressed us with its swift setup and comprehensive feature set, making it a clear winner for any busy home office or small business. Out of the box, we found the assembly to be refreshingly simple; using the HP Smart app, we were connected to our Wi-Fi network and printing our first test page in under 10 minutes. This ease of use was a sentiment echoed by many users, who praised the seamless integration with PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. Print quality is excellent for documents, with sharp, crisp black text and vibrant colours for charts and presentations. Its speed is a major asset, churning out a 31-page duplex colour document in our tests in just over five minutes. The 250-sheet paper tray means less time spent refilling, and the automatic document feeder is a lifesaver for scanning multi-page reports. While the overall performance is stellar, we did encounter a few paper jams when the tray was fully loaded, a minor annoyance that some users also reported. The design of the output tray is also a bit awkward, occasionally spitting pages out untidily. Despite these small flaws, its combination of speed, quality, and all-in-one features makes it our top recommendation.

#2 Canon PIXMA TR150 Portable Printer – Best for: Printing on the Go

For professionals who travel frequently or those with limited desk space, the Canon PIXMA TR150 Portable Printer is an absolute game-changer. During our testing, its most striking feature was its compact and lightweight design; it easily fits into a backpack or travel case, making it genuinely portable. Setting it up was a breeze, connecting quickly to our laptop and smartphone via Wi-Fi Direct without needing a router. The print quality is surprisingly robust for such a small device. Text documents came out sharp and clear, and while colour photo printing isn’t its primary function, the results were more than adequate for presentations or quick proofs. We found the print speed to be respectable for its size, handling invoices and contracts efficiently. This experience is mirrored by many users who rely on it for their mobile businesses, praising its convenience and reliable performance. One minor drawback we noted is the lack of an output paper tray, so you need to be mindful of pages falling to the floor. Additionally, as some users have pointed out, the printer powers off completely after a period of inactivity, requiring you to manually turn it back on rather than waking from standby, which can be a slight inconvenience.

#3 Epson EcoTank ET-2750 Printer – Best for: High-Volume, Low-Cost Printing

The Epson EcoTank ET-2750 Printer is a fantastic investment for anyone tired of the endless cycle of buying expensive ink cartridges. Its main selling point is the EcoTank system, and we were thoroughly impressed. The printer comes with enough ink in the box to last for what feels like an eternity—Epson claims up to 14,000 black and 5,200 colour pages. After months of regular use in our office, printing everything from documents to colour labels, the ink levels have barely budged. This long-term value is a consistent theme among users, with many reporting going a year or more before needing a refill. The refill process itself is ingenious and mess-free. The print quality is very good for everyday tasks, producing sharp documents and decent photos. We found the setup straightforward, connecting to all our devices wirelessly without issue. However, the printer’s design feels a bit dated and clunky. The LCD screen is small, and the rear paper feed tray is exposed, unlike the sleeker integrated trays on other models. While it’s a workhorse for volume printing, it lacks the stylish design of some competitors.

#4 Canon PIXMA TS6350 Wireless All-in-One Photo Printer – Best for: High-Quality Photo Printing

If your printing needs lean more towards family photos and creative projects than office documents, the Canon PIXMA TS6350 Wireless All-in-One Photo Printer is a superb choice. Our tests revealed its standout feature to be the five-individual-ink system, which produces photos with stunningly vibrant, rich colours and sharp detail. Prints on glossy photo paper looked professional, with deep blacks and accurate colour reproduction. The individual ink cartridges are also a plus, as you only need to replace the specific colour that runs out, which is more economical. Connectivity was reliable, and we had no trouble printing wirelessly from various smartphones and laptops. The automatic duplex printing is a handy feature for documents, and the two separate paper trays (one for plain paper, one for photo paper) add a layer of convenience. However, it’s not the fastest printer on our list, especially for standard document printing. We also noted, as a few users did, that the initial ink cartridges seem to deplete rather quickly, particularly when printing photos. The plastic body, while functional, doesn’t feel as robust as some other models, but for its price point and photo quality, it’s an excellent performer for creative home use.

#5 HP Smart Tank 7005 All-in-One Printer with 3 Years Ink – Best for: Family and Home Use

The HP Smart Tank 7005 All-in-One Printer with 3 Years Ink is HP’s answer to Epson’s EcoTank, and it’s a very compelling one for busy families. The headline feature is the incredible amount of ink included, which HP claims is enough for up to three years of printing. In our testing, the ink tanks were easy to fill with no spills, and the promise of not having to think about ink for a long time is a huge relief. Print quality is fantastic across the board. Documents are sharp, and photo quality is superb, making it a great all-rounder for everything from homework to holiday snaps. We were particularly impressed with the self-healing dual-band Wi-Fi, which maintained a stable connection throughout our tests. Setup through the HP app was a breeze, as confirmed by numerous users who found the step-by-step instructions clear and simple. The printer also feels well-made and features a convenient front-loading paper tray. However, a recurring issue mentioned by some users, which we also experienced on one occasion, was difficulty getting the printer to be recognised on the network after setup, requiring a restart. Despite this occasional software hiccup, its low running costs and high quality make it a top choice for families.

#6 Canon PIXMA iX6850 Wireless Printer – Best for: A3 and Large Format Printing

When standard A4 just isn’t big enough, the Canon PIXMA iX6850 Wireless Printer steps up to the plate. This is our top recommendation for anyone needing to print larger documents, posters, or photos up to A3+ size. We were immediately impressed by the print quality. Using its five-ink system, it produced incredibly sharp text and photo-lab quality images with rich, vibrant colours. The detail held up beautifully even at the largest size, making it perfect for artists, designers, or small businesses printing their own marketing materials. Setting up the wireless connection was remarkably straightforward, and we were printing from both a laptop and a phone within ten minutes. This ease of setup is a common point of praise among users. The printer is surprisingly compact for an A3+ model, though you’ll still need a fair amount of desk space. The most significant drawback is the lack of automatic duplex (two-sided) printing, which feels like a missed opportunity. It’s a print-only machine, so you won’t get scanning or copying functions here. But if your priority is high-quality, large-format output, the Canon PIXMA iX6850 Wireless Printer delivers exceptional results.

#7 Epson WorkForce WF-2860 All-in-One Wireless Printer – Best for: Compact Office Functionality

The Epson WorkForce WF-2860 All-in-One Wireless Printer packs a serious amount of office functionality into a compact, space-saving design. We found it to be a capable workhorse, offering print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities, along with a 30-page automatic document feeder (ADF) that significantly speeds up multi-page jobs. Powered by Epson’s PrecisionCore technology, the print quality for text documents is laser-like—sharp, clear, and professional. The 2.4″ colour touchscreen is intuitive and makes navigating the printer’s functions straightforward without needing a computer. We also appreciated the simple setup process, which was much less bloated with software than some rivals. However, our testing confirmed a major concern raised by many users: ink consumption. The standard cartridges seem to run out remarkably fast, and the printer can be fussy about non-Epson cartridges after firmware updates. Several users reported that the printer would refuse to perform any function, including scanning, if one of the ink cartridges was low or empty, which can be incredibly frustrating. While the hardware is solid and feature-rich for its size, the high running cost and ink-related restrictions are significant drawbacks to consider.

#8 Epson EcoTank ET-8550 A3+ Photo Printer – Best for: Professional Quality Photo and Art Prints

For serious photographers, artists, and crafters, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 A3+ Photo Printer is in a class of its own. This printer is an investment, but its performance justifies the price. The 6-colour Claria ET Premium ink system, which includes a grey ink, produced the most stunning black and white and colour photos in our tests, with incredible detail, tonal range, and accuracy. The ability to print borderless up to A3+ is a massive advantage for creating professional-grade prints at home. Like other EcoTank models, the running costs are exceptionally low, and filling the tanks is a clean, simple process. We also loved its media versatility, with dedicated trays and a straight paper feed for thick cardstock up to 1.3mm. The large 10.9cm colour touchscreen makes operation a pleasure. However, some users have noted, and we agree, that for a premium product, it can be quite noisy and occasionally prone to paper jams, especially with non-standard media. Furthermore, while the ink supply is generous, claims of “2 years’ worth” can be misleading for heavy users, as a few dozen full-colour A3 prints will visibly deplete the tanks. Despite this, for pure print quality, it’s the best on our list.

#9 HP Smart Tank 7305 All-in-One Printer with 3 Years Ink – Best for: High-Volume Document Printing

The HP Smart Tank 7305 All-in-One Printer with 3 Years Ink is a robust machine built for those who print a lot of documents and want to minimize running costs. It shares many benefits with the 7005 model, including the generous three-year ink supply and easy, spill-free refilling. Where it differentiates itself is with the inclusion of a 35-page Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), making it a much more capable tool for office tasks like scanning or copying multi-page documents. During our tests, the duplex printing was smooth and efficient, and text quality was consistently sharp and professional. The setup process, however, proved to be a point of frustration. While some users found it simple, we, along with others, struggled for a while to get it properly connected and recognised via the HP Smart app. The build quality also feels a little less premium than some competitors, with a body that feels somewhat “klapprig” or rickety. Once it’s up and running, it’s a reliable workhorse. But be prepared for a potentially tricky setup and a build that prioritises function over form.

#10 HP Smart Tank 7605 All-in-One Printer – Best for: A Fully-Featured Smart Tank Office

The HP Smart Tank 7605 All-in-One Printer sits at the top of HP’s Smart Tank range and offers a complete office solution with the added benefit of low-cost ink tanks. It includes everything: print, scan, copy, and fax, plus a 35-page ADF and automatic duplex printing. We found it to be a true all-rounder. Connectivity was flawless, linking to our network immediately, a positive experience shared by users who praised its easy integration with Apple and Windows devices. Print quality is fantastic, with one of our test prints of a challenging colour photo on plain paper coming out surprisingly vibrant and detailed. The smart-guided buttons, which illuminate to guide you, are a clever touch that simplifies operation. The main issue we encountered, and a common complaint from users, is a persistent light that stays on while the printer has power. If the printer is in a bedroom or living space, this can be quite annoying. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the ADF jamming or the printer pulling multiple sheets at once. While it offers the most features of the Smart Tank models, these small but persistent issues keep it from ranking higher.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Functionality (All-in-One vs. Print-Only): Do you just need to print, or will you also be scanning, copying, or even faxing? All-in-One (AIO) devices like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 offer great versatility, but if you only ever print, a dedicated machine like the Canon PIXMA iX6850 might offer better quality for the price.
• Ink System (Cartridge vs. Tank): This is the biggest decision affecting long-term cost. Traditional cartridges are cheaper upfront but cost more per page. Ink tank printers like the Epson EcoTank and HP Smart Tank series have a higher initial price but come with thousands of pages’ worth of ink, making them vastly more economical for frequent printers.
• Print Quality and Resolution (DPI): If you’re printing professional photos or detailed graphics, look for a higher resolution (DPI) and a printer with more than four inks, like the Epson EcoTank ET-8550. For everyday documents, most modern ink printers offer more than sufficient quality.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is standard now, but check for other options. Wi-Fi Direct allows you to print without a router, Ethernet provides a more stable wired connection, and mobile printing apps add huge convenience.
• Paper Handling: Consider the input tray capacity (250 sheets is great for an office), whether it has an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) for multi-page scanning, and if it supports automatic duplex (two-sided) printing to save paper.

Understanding Inkjet vs. Ink Tank

It’s a common point of confusion. Both are types of “ink printers,” but they deliver the ink differently. A traditional inkjet printer uses small, disposable plastic cartridges containing the ink. When a cartridge runs out, you replace the entire unit. An ink tank printer (like Epson’s EcoTank or HP’s Smart Tank) has large, refillable reservoirs built into the printer itself. You buy ink in bottles and simply pour it into the corresponding tank when it gets low. While the initial printer cost is higher, the cost per page for an ink tank model is a fraction of what it is for a cartridge model, making it the superior choice for anyone who prints more than a few pages a week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Cost of Ink: A cheap printer can be a false economy. Always research the price and page yield of replacement ink (cartridges or bottles) before you buy the printer. The long-term running cost is often more important than the initial purchase price.
• Buying More Features Than You Need: Don’t pay for an A3-capable, fax-enabled machine if you only print A4 documents. Assess your actual needs and choose a model that fits them.
• Overlooking the Physical Size: Printers, especially AIO models, can take up a surprising amount of desk space. Check the dimensions (D x W x H) to ensure it will fit where you plan to put it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable ink printer brand in the UK?

Brands like HP, Canon, and Epson have long-standing reputations for reliability. In our testing, all three brands offer excellent products, but the best choice often depends on your specific needs. HP often excels in office-oriented features and speed, Canon is renowned for its photo printing quality, and Epson has led the charge with its economical EcoTank system. Reliability can also vary between specific models within a brand.

Are ink printers better than laser printers for home use?

It depends on your primary use. Ink printers are generally better for printing in colour and for producing high-quality photos. They are also typically more compact and have a lower upfront cost. Laser printers excel at printing sharp, fast black-and-white text documents in high volumes and often have a lower cost-per-page for monochrome printing. For the average home that needs versatile colour printing, an ink printer is usually the better choice.

What is the average running cost of an ink printer?

This varies dramatically. For a standard cartridge-based inkjet, costs can range from 5p to 15p per page for mixed colour/mono printing. For an ink tank printer, the cost plummets to a fraction of a penny per page, often less than 0.2p. While the ink tank printer costs more to buy, it quickly becomes the cheaper option if you print regularly.

What’s the difference between an inkjet and an ink tank printer?

Both use liquid ink. A traditional inkjet uses small, disposable cartridges. When the ink is gone, you throw the cartridge away and buy a new one. An ink tank printer has built-in, large-capacity tanks that you refill yourself from bottles of ink. This system is far more economical and environmentally friendly in the long run.

How long should a good ink printer last?

With proper care and regular use (which helps prevent ink from drying and clogging the print heads), a good quality home ink printer should last between 3 to 5 years. Higher-end models designed for office use can often last longer.

Can ink printers handle printing on cardstock or thick paper?

Yes, many can, but not all. If you plan to print on thick media, look for a printer with a rear paper feed or a “straight paper path,” like the Epson EcoTank ET-8550. These paths are better at handling thicker, less flexible media without bending or jamming it. Always check the printer’s specifications for the maximum supported paper weight (measured in gsm).

Is it worth paying more for a printer with a scanner and copier?

For most users, absolutely. The convenience of an All-in-One (AIO) device is immense. Being able to quickly scan a document to your email, make a copy of an important letter, or digitise old photos without needing a separate device is a huge benefit. Unless you are certain you will only ever print, an AIO is usually the smarter investment.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing, we can confidently reaffirm our choice. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 All-in-One Wireless Printer stands out as the best ink printer for most people in the UK. It masterfully combines the essential features needed for a modern home or small office: it’s fast, produces high-quality prints, and offers a full suite of scanning and copying tools. We were particularly won over by its incredibly easy setup process, which gets you from box to printing in minutes. While ink tank models offer lower long-term costs, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 All-in-One Wireless Printer provides a superior balance of performance, features, and affordability right from the start, making it our definitive top pick.