10 Best Budget Printers 2025 in the UK

The HP DeskJet 2810e is a versatile, budget-friendly printer well-suited for basic home printing needs. Using thermal print technology, it is compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into small spaces. It prints in black and white at a speed of 7.5 pages per minute and in color at 5.5 pages per minute, which is adequate for occasional home use but might be slow for high-volume printing tasks.

The print quality is standard for its class, with a maximum resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi for both black and white and color prints, ensuring decent clarity for documents and images. Connectivity is a strong point for this printer, featuring Wi-Fi capabilities that allow for wireless printing and easy setup via the HP Smart app. The reliable Wi-Fi connection ensures you can print from multiple devices without much hassle.

One of the most attractive features is the inclusion of 3 free months of Instant Ink, which can help reduce operating costs significantly by ensuring you never run out of ink. After the trial period, a monthly fee applies, but it can still save money for frequent users. The printer is also environmentally friendly, made from 60% recycled plastic. Some drawbacks include its relatively low print speed and small input sheet capacity of 60 sheets, which may not be ideal for users with higher printing demands. Additionally, the absence of advanced features such as automatic duplex printing can be a limitation. This printer is perfect for users who need a simple, reliable, and cost-effective solution for occasional printing, scanning, and copying tasks at home.

The HP Smart Tank 7005 All in One Printer is a versatile choice for families looking for a budget-friendly printer capable of handling high-volume printing. Utilizing ink tank technology, it's designed for low-cost operation and comes with up to three years' worth of ink, allowing up to 8,000 color or 12,000 black pages. This makes it an economical option for those who print frequently. The print quality stands out with vibrant color graphics and crisp text, ideal for both documents and photos.

Print speeds are moderate, achieving up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) for black and 9 ppm for color, which suits typical home needs but might be slow for those requiring faster output. The inclusion of automatic two-sided printing is a practical feature, saving on paper and time. Connectivity is a strong point, featuring wireless and mobile printing options, alongside USB connectivity. The self-healing dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a reliable connection, reducing interruptions. Setup and refills are simplified by smart-guided buttons and a spill-free refill system, making it user-friendly.

On the downside, while it offers laser-like print quality, it actually uses inkjet technology, meaning potential users should consider this for tasks that benefit from inkjet capabilities. The printer's size and weight might also be a consideration for those with limited space. In terms of sustainability, the printer is made from over 25% recycled materials, aligning with eco-conscious users' values. Security features like basic encryption and password protection offer peace of mind. For families or home offices in need of a cost-efficient, easy-to-use printer, the HP Smart Tank 7005 provides a balanced mix of features and value.