Are you a teacher with a large classroom, many students, and more printouts than you can count? I was once a teacher, and I sure had some problems getting the right printer for my students. Teachers have a lot of requirements for their printers which can make it hard to decide which one is the best fit for their needs. To make your search easier, I researched and tested some printers to give you my honest opinions about the best color printer for teachers and guide you on how you can find the best for your classroom.
Printers usually have printing capacities of up to 30,000 pages, which is quite larger than what students print over the school year. And finding printers that cater to your specific requirements with no additional expense may not be easy. For example, you may have to visit multiple stores before finding the best one for your classroom. I hope my research will help your decision process and make selecting the best color printer easier. So, buckle up; we’ve got a lot of ground to cover!
Top Pick
Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw
- Auto-Duplex – can print on both sides of a paper
- First Print Out Time: 10.3 Seconds
- Up to 250 sheets in the standard cassette
- Works with Alexa
- 5″ Color Touchscreen
List Of Best Color Printer for Teachers
Best color printer for teachers for 2021 Review: Key Features, Pros, and Cons
School teachers are busy. We’re a lot busier than most people. So, when it comes to printing, we want something that will make our life easier. The comparison chart below contains the top 7 best color printer for teachers and their features at a glance.
| IMAGE | NAME & Details | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw printer |
| Check The Price |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2760 |
| Check The Price |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e |
| Check The Price |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4760 |
| Check The Price |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 |
| Check The Price |
| Brother HL-L3210CW |
| Check The Price |
| Canon MAXIFY MB2120 |
| Check The Price |
1. Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw printer
Highlighted features
- Auto-Duplex – can print on both sides of a paper
- First Print Out Time: 10.3 Seconds
- Up to 250 sheets in the standard cassette
- Works with Alexa
- 5″ Color Touchscreen
Your classroom doesn’t need to be in black and white. In fact, it can be framed in stunning color. And that’s what you will get from the Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw Printer. It is a device that gives you the power to print, scan, copy and fax professionally created documents – plus photos and flyers – right from your classroom.
Right out of the box, I got this printer to print high-resolution borderless photos with vivid color and superb details. Setting up is super-easy and takes less than two minutes. Connection’s not a problem – it has Ethernet and USB connectivity.
One feature that I find very useful is the printer’s WiFi that allows printing directly from mobile devices. It is also a duplex unit that allows double-sided printing – no matter what software you use.
This highly functional unit is perfect for classrooms with a heavy printing workload. However, this printer is big. You need to create a significant space before bringing it in.
Pros
- The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw Printer printer can be used by up to 5 people in your school environment via WiFi.
- This printer is compatible with Mopria, Google Cloud Print, Canon PRINT Business, and other applications.
- The unit can print, scan, copy and fax and has a print volume of 150-2,500 Pgs/Month.
Cons
- It is bulky, so you’d have to figure out where to put it in the classroom if you keep it there.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-2760
Highlighted features
- Zero Cartridge Waste
- Built-in Copier and Scanner
- 100-Sheet Input Tray
- Ink saving up to 90% with replacement ink bottles
Whether you’re printing holiday cards or reports for your students, you shouldn’t worry about your ink running out. The ET-2760 comes with Epson-developed EcoTank ink that eliminates the risk of that happening and disrupting your printing halfway.
The ET-2760 is perfect for all classrooms. It is an all-in-one workhorse that lets you print, scan, and copy easily. Like the Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw Printer above, it also comes with an auto double-sided printing and copying that will save you plenty of printing stress.
The machine can scan to an SD card or USB drive. It is easy to see why this machine is the printer of choice in many classrooms across the country.
The high-resolution flatbed scanner for photocopying and one-touch buttons for scanning to email add to the unique functionality of this machine.
Not forgetting the energy star technology of the ET-2760 that will save printing energy costs. But it has one drawback for all its niceties: a maximum print speed of just 10.5 pages per minute. If you think thi printing speed works for your classroom, by all means, go for this machine.
Pros
- The ET-2760 is compatible with hands-free, voice-activated printing.
- It has a 2.4-inch LCD color display to monitor and control printing processes.
- This unit prints, scans, copies, and faxes. It supports both Ethernet USB connectivity.
Cons
- You can only feed your printing paper into the machine from the rear.
3. HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e
Highlighted features
- Fast print speed
- Self-healing Wi-FiTM – auto resolves connection issues
- Print, copy, fax scan
Looking for a budget-friendly, all-in-one printer that doesn’t compromise on features? The HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e delivers professional quality, fast speeds, affordability, and wireless connectivity in a compact design. It is easy to use and lets you easily print from mobile devices.
This machine will fit where you need it, with a compact design that doesn’t take up valuable desk or shelf space. It’s great for small classrooms that need easy access to printing capabilities.
I used this machine for over a month and absolutely loved its fast print. It has a printing speed of up to 20 pages per minute in black and 10 pages per minute in color – producing professional-quality photos.
Another feature that I find handy is its compatibility with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. This makes it versatile for a variety of work environments. It also includes an auto-document feeder that can scan multiple documents at once.
The OfficeJet Pro 8025 is equipped with HP ePrint, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and NFC connectivity. So you can print from any device. It’s easy to install and set up, too — just connect to a wireless network, and you’re ready to print. Please note that The Pro 8025e has a louder operating sound than the ET-2760.
Pros
- This unit comes with a 2-sided printing and auto document feeder to save you plenty of printing stress.
- It comes enhanced with basic encryption, WiFi security password protection, and document protection.
- This machine can scan, print, and copy from your smartphone from anywhere.
Cons
- This printer has a loud operating sound.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-4760
Highlighted features
- WiFi, USB, Ethernet support
- 4” LCD color display for navigation
- Hands-free, voice-activated printing
- Mac and Windows compatible
Make your classwork easier with the innovative EcoTank ET-4760 printer. It comes with an EcoTank technology that allows you to print fast in black or color without worrying about running out of ink.
The ET-4760 uses high-capacity ink tanks that deliver up to 7,500 pages of black and 6,000 pages of color (YLD), so you spend more time doing what you love and less time shopping for replacement ink. Plus, it comes with a 2.4” touchscreen, built-in fax, scanner, and Ethernet networking, so you can get started printing your class report right away.
One of the biggest problems with traditional printers is that they don’t typically have large enough ink cartridges to last long. With the EcoTank ET-4760 printer, you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing small ink cartridges to continue printing.
This is because the ET-4760 uses Epson’s exclusive EcoTank ink bottles, which are designed to contain enough ink for approximately 5 years’ worth of printing. There is no need to buy new ink bottles every year or two because they will only run out when you’re ready. It’s like a horse wearing a flamethrower on its back when it comes to printing. It never runs out of ink and will last for a very long time! One thing, though, this unit is pricey.
Pros
- The EcoTank ET-4760 printer comes with an auto Document Feeder (ADF) and auto 2-sided printing, making large printing work easy.
- Its large ink tanks mean you do not need tiny, expensive ink cartridges that need refilling every now and then.
- It has a built-in copier and scanner and a 2.4” LCD display for easy navigation and document copying.
Cons
- This printer is expensive and there are lower cost options with similar features.
5. HP OfficeJet Pro 6978
Highlighted features
- 65 LCD color touchscreen
- Ethernet, WiFi, USB connectivity
- NFC touch to print support
The HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer is a multifunction device loaded with features and functions. It comes with a 2.5” Touch Screen that allows you to navigate through all of the different functions while also providing you with easy access to the menu settings.
This device can print up to 22ppm in black/white and 11 ppm color. The dimensions of this device are 15.9 x 17.1 x 7.3 inches and weigh 18 pounds, making it easy to place on any desk or table in your classroom.
This machine can also be used as a copier and scanner, allowing you to easily make copies of any important documents you need to keep for your records. In addition, this product comes with an automatic document feeder that allows you to print multiple class reports at once without stopping the machine for each page to be printed separately.
The maximum input capacity for this device is 150 sheets of paper, which should be more than enough for most classrooms looking for a multipurpose printer for everyday school activities. One feature I’d love to see improved in the next upgrade is a faster print speed from rest.
Pros
- This unit has a decent print speed of 20 ppm black and 11 ppm color.
- It comes with a color touchscreen that makes printing navigation and control easier.
- It has an input/output capacity of 225 sheets/60 sheets, suitable for most classroom settings.
Cons
- There is a slight delay between print and the beginning of the printing process.
6. Brother HL-L3210CW
Highlighted features
- WiFi, USB support
- Print speed of 19 ppm/19 ppm B/W and colored
- Laser printing technology
The Brother HL-L3210CW is one of the best color printer for teachers I have ever used. This machine makes it easy to print impressive color documents right from your desk.
It is a compact, space-saving printer ideal for classrooms needing a fast and affordable color printer. The printer’s mobile device printing capability allows you to easily print from your smartphone or tablet. Plus, the HL-L8250CDW high yield toner cartridge means you’ll spend less time changing out cartridges.
One feature that stands out for me is the laser-quality black text and vibrant color graphics that can print up to 19 ppm in both letter and legal formats. I bet you could also love to know that this printer can print on various media types, including cards, stock, and envelopes. This unit is multipurpose.
The Brother HL-L3210CW offers fast 2-sided printing, so you can print double as fast without turning your office upside down, as well as a 250-sheet paper tray for less frequent refills. You can also expand the paper capacity with a single 550 sheet input tray sold separately.
USB connectivity makes sharing this monochrome laser printer easy with others on your school network. This color printer is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Apple, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Google Cloud Print support means you can access your printer from virtually anywhere. However, I must inform you that this printer will only work with replacement ink from Brother. As such, third-party ink is a no-no.
Pros
- This printer can auto-print on both sides of a paper.
- The printer supports wireless print from your smartphone, laptop, tablet, and desktop.
- It comes with a manual paper feed slot that handles a variety of sizes and types, including envelopes, card stock, and many more.
Cons
- This printer is only compatible with Brother toners so you lose some flexibility there.
7. Canon MAXIFY MB2120
Highlighted features
- Tray holds 250 sheets
- Google cloud print
- 20,000-page Duty Cycle
- Dual-resistant high density (DRHD) Inks
MAXIFY MB2120 is an excellent solution for a teacher that wants a reliable and affordable color laser printer. This entry-level model offers high speed, quality results, and a low cost of ownership.
With built-in WiFi connectivity and mobile device printing capability, it keeps you connected to your device from any corner of the classroom.
It’s very easy to set up and use. Print, copy or scan documents from any computer with just a few clicks of the mouse. And with its compact design, it won’t take up valuable space on your desk.
What’s more, the MAXIFY MB2120 is designed to be energy efficient; it uses less power than conventional models while still providing excellent print quality.
This printer an ideal solution for those looking for a fast, easy way to print their favorite vacation photos or handouts for school projects. It’s perfect for printing in the classroom with clear, sharp output similar to laser printers found in many commercial environments. One feature lacking in this model, and I hope to see in newer models, is a touch-sensitive screen to make navigation easier.
Pros
- This printer easily allows teachers to transfer media to an SD card via an easy-to-use front USB port.
- This printer comes with setting restrictions that allow you to set a password on your WIFI network.
- It comes with an automatic power-on feature that conveniently powers the unit when it detects any printing job.
Cons
- The user interface could be more intuitive.
Best color printer for teachers: Buying Guide
If it’s your first rodeo, buying a printer for your classroom can be a tricky and daunting task. That’s because there are dozens of brands and hundreds of models to sift through. Choosing the wrong one means unnecessary spending and a bad fit printer. What criteria should you use to purchase the best color printer for teachers? Here are a few:
Speed
The speed at which a printer prints depends on several factors. Factors include the type of printer you choose, the computer and software you use, your computer’s memory, and the size and complexity of the files you send to your printer. Printers that use inkjet technology print slower than printers that use laser or thermal transfer technology. If speed is important to your classroom activities, go for the Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw printer or the Canon MAXIFY MB2120 printers.
Price
Printer comes in different price ranges, so before going out to buy one, make sure that you have budgeted for it. The most expensive ones do not always mean better quality but advanced technology, better prints, and fast printing speed. Give the best value printer – HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e a look-in. It has a bit of everything.
Quality
The quality of printouts is another thing you need to look at when buying a printer. Some printers may give off poor-quality printouts, while others may produce high-quality prints. Look at the printer’s resolution. When choosing a color printer, you want to make sure that the printer can produce high-quality images like the Epson EcoTank ET-2760. The higher the resolution (dpi), the better the quality of the images.
The paper types
The first is to know the type of paper you will use. There are different paper types, so it would be best to know what kind of paper you will use for your printing needs.
The most common types of paper are thermal transfer paper (used with a thermal printer), plain paper (used with an inkjet or laser printer), and labels (used with an inkjet printer).
Printer Technology
Technology is one factor that determines the performance of a printer. There are three main printing technologies: inkjet, laser, and thermal transfer. Each technology has its own merits and demerits.
Inkjet printers are cheaper compared to other technologies and can produce high-quality prints. However, they often have problems with smearing and bleeding, especially when used to print photos. Because of these problems, inkjets are not the best choice for printing photos and other documents that require crisp colors. If you want to print photos, you are better off looking into laser printers.
Laser printers do not have smearing or bleeding problems like inkjets have. They also have higher quality resolution than inkjets, which means that they can produce sharper images and text than inkjets can. However, laser printers are generally more expensive than inkjets because they use toner instead of ink.
Thermal transfer printers are known as the most reliable and durable. The components in this printer do not heat up, and there is no need to replace any cartridge. They produce copies that have sharp details and vibrant colors. One downside is that you have to use ribbon for printing which is much more expensive than the ink of the inkjet printer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a printer with a scanner and a copier?
It is important to note that having a printer with a copier and scanner won’t impact the printing capabilities of your color printer at all. That being said, if you just need to make a few copies, having a copier in your room can save you from having to get in line for the school copier.
Q: Is a full-color printer the only available option?
If a teacher does not need to print in color or has no budget for a high-quality printer, there are still several good options.
Teachers who do not need color should consider black and white laser printers. These machines can sometimes be less expensive than their inkjet counterparts and have more functions than some inkjet printers.
Q: Do printer inks dry out?
You should know that if your printer is not used for long periods, its inks will dry out or clog. Even if your printer is turned off, the cartridges will still continue to dry and clog up if they aren’t used for a very long time.
To prevent this, make sure that you use your printer weekly at least.
Conclusion
I hope this review about the best color printer for teachers has shed a little light on your options. I know it can be difficult at first to determine which printer is the best for your classroom needs. But, hopefully, you feel confident in your decision. Remember, all the printers above are great options, and they each have their own perks. Keep in mind what you really need; this will help make the decision process much easier.
