Modern technology makes it quite easy to adapt to a more remote lifestyle, and that includes homeschooling. In fact, recent advancements across multiple fields have made homeschooling a much more realistic option for parents all over the world.
The process requires a range of different electronic devices to work, and everyone can now easily access them. That includes a reliable printer.
This guide will break down some of the best printers for homeschooling. Whether your child has been learning from home for a long time or is doing it because of current world conditions, the options listed here will work for any situation.
If you’re looking for a means to stay on top of the entire process, the printers listed here are for you.
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Who Should Get This
A printer is an amazing device for any student or teacher involved with homeschool.
For students, a printer provides a means to print assignments so they can work on them at home and keep up with schoolwork.
For teachers, a printer will allow you to have your course curriculum at hand or print student assignments to grade if you prefer to have a physical copy.
It’s possible to conduct homeschool without a printer, but with the devices being so affordable and easy to get, I would definitely recommend one.
You just never know when you might need to have something printed and you will always want the ability to help a kid learn to the best of their abilities. That’s where a printer shines.
Best Printer for Homeschool: Our Picks
This section analyzes the top homeschool printers and explains the unique niches they fill.
1. HP Envy 5055
- Best For: Overall
- Key Features: All-in-one design. Compact. Reliable and versatile. Can handle multiple paper sizes and weights. HP Smart App
- Connectivity Technology: WiFi, Cloud Printing, Bluetooth
- Sheet Size: 3 x 5 to 8.5 x 14, Letter, Legal, Envelope
- Dimensions: 14.4 x 17.5 x 5 inches
The HP Envy 5055 is the complete homeschool printer. It’s outfitted with multiple connection options (WiFi, Cloud Printing, Bluetooth), prints with perfect resolution, and can handle just about any size or weight you need. It’s versatile, fast, and reliable.
As this is an HP device, you get access to both Instant Ink and the Smart App. Both features, while not necessary to use the printer, add to the functionality. They each offer an extra dimension to the machine and make your life much, much easier.
The connectivity is mostly reliable, but it can be spotty every now and then. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to watch out for if you plan on putting the printer under a heavy workload.
2. Brother Monochrome
- Best For: Monochrome
- Key Features: 10,000 pages duty cycle. Strong printing speed and tough design. 250-page capacity tray. Automatic 2-sided print.
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Print Speed: 27 pages per minute
- Dimensions: 14.2 x 14 x 7.2 inches
If you want a reliable homeschool printer with a solid amount of power at an affordable price, look no further than the Brother Monochrome. Outfitted with a large duty cycle and 250-page capacity tray, this option can power through both small and large jobs with ease.
The printer is also quite strong. A durable build is a great feature to have when you’re storing the machine around kids that could easily knock or bump into it. On top of that, it manages to stay relatively compact.
For all of its features, this is a basic device. As such, you only get black and white pages and there’s no WiFi connectivity. If you have a solid USB setup and don’t need color, however, that won’t be a big issue.
3. Epson EcoTank ET-2760
- Best For: Value
- Key Features: Cartridge-free printing. Versatile connectivity. Strong customer support. All-in-one design.
- Connectivity Technology: USB, Ethernet
- Sheet Size: 3.5-14 inches, A4, A6, Half Letter, Legal, Executive
- Dimensions: 13.7 x 14.8 x 9.4 inches
One of the biggest issues with modern printers is the ink cost. This Epson model tackles that issue head on by delivering a cartridge-free printer that comes with two years of ink included in the box. The high-capacity tanks are easy to fill and last a long, long time.
You save a lot of costs by going with this option. In addition, the dual-connectivity is versatile and reliable. You get great resolution during your prints too. If you have an option, Epson’s customer service will be able to walk you through it quickly and easily.
This printer’s biggest shortcoming is that the photo quality doesn’t quite hold up on plain paper. For that, you’ll want something that’s a little more premium.
4. HP DeskJet 3755
- Best For: Compact
- Key Features: Easy to set up. HP Smart App. Wide compatibility. Clean LCD display. 1-year limited warranty
- Connectivity Technology: WiFi
- Sheet Size: 3 x 5 to 8.5 x 14, Letter, Legal, Envelope
- Dimensions: 15.86 x 6.97 x 5.55 inches
If you’re after a smaller printer that you can move around a homeschool classroom or office, the DeskJet 3755 fits the bill. This printer doesn’t just do a good job with a range of different sheet sizes, it can also scan and copy as you see fit. It prints from the cloud as well.
On top of that, the device is an HP. That means you get full access to both Instant Ink and their Smart App. Each of those does a great job in creating a much more complete device. The wireless functionality is also incredibly reliable, which perfectly compliments the smaller footprint.
As this is a more compact printer, it’s not the best when it comes to durability. In addition, the LCD display, while useful, can be hard to see and operate if you have larger hands.
5. Epson Workforce WF-2830
- Best For: Versatility
- Key Features: Fast and reliable. Tough. 1.4-inch LCD screen. Copy, scan, and fax capabilities. Strong connectivity.
- Connectivity Technology: WiFi
- Sheet Size: 4 inch x 6 Inches, 5 inch x 7 Inches, 8 inch x 10 Inches, 3.5 inch x 5 Inches
- Dimensions: 7.2 x 6.81 x 4.84 inches
Few printers are as well-rounded as the Epson Workforce. With the ability to copy, scan, print, and fax, it can easily handle all of your homeschool needs. The printer quickly spits out both color and black and white pages. It also utilizes WiFi to work with all of your smart devices.
Another reason to pick this up is the affordable individual ink cartridges. By being able to replace only ink that runs out, you save a lot of money in the long run.
This is definitely one of the larger homeschool options out there. It might not be the best for those who need space, but if you have the room it’s worth the bulk.
6. Pixma TS3320
- Best For: Budget
- Key Features: Wireless connect. Fast setup time. Easy to use. AirPrint. Great functionality. Affordable price point.
- Connectivity Technology: WiFi, USB
- Sheet Size: 4” x 6”, 5” x 5” (Square), 5” x 7”, Letter, Legal
- Dimensions: 17.2 x 12.5 x 5.8 inches
If you want a homeschool printer that’s on the cheaper end of the spectrum, the Pixma TS3320 is a great choice. This model cuts costs without losing any key features. It has built-in WiFi, excellent AirPrint, as well as a strong speed.
The entire setup is streamlined too. You can use the wireless features to get everything together in just a few minutes. That, combined with the simple interface and clear resolution, creates a long-lasting machine that you can use for your homeschool needs over and over again.
The only aspect you might have some issues with here is the connectivity. While the USB is always reliable, the WiFi can become spotty every now and then. Even so, that’s not a lasting problem.
How to Choose a Printer for Homeschool
All-In-One or Just Print
There are two types of printers on this list: all-in-one and regular ‘just print’. I would recommend an all-in-one style for homeschooling because it gives you versatility in the ability to not only print but to scan and copy as well.
If you don’t need those features, then a ‘just print’ printer will allow you to print documents with ease. All-in-one styles will be a little bit more expensive, but the added cost is usually worth it for the extra functionality.
Printing Volume
Depending on your specific homeschooling needs, you’ll want to make sure any printer you choose can handle a high page volume.
Printing volume is typically known as a duty cycle, but it’s also reflected in the pages per minute (or ppm) the printer can handle.
Realistically, you probably won’t need the largest duty cycle for regular homeschooling situations but if you do, make sure to look into it.
Color or Black & White
Something else to keep in mind is whether or not you need your printer to be able to print in color. Nearly every option is going to be able to easily print black & white pages.
However, having a color printer can come in handy for a variety of different homeschooling situations. Color printers will usually be more expensive, but they give you the ability to print off photos, art projects, and anything else you might need.
Connectivity
Many children are more competent than adults when using modern technology. That’s why you want a printer with good connectivity.
Having a device with WiFi and/or Bluetooth connectivity is nice because you (or your kids) will be able to print pages from just about any device. It also makes it easier to print from multiple devices if you have several kids learning from home.
Useful Tips & Resources
If your child is just beginning their homeschooling journey, it can take some time to get comfortable with the differences between this style of learning and the at-school experience.
You’ll want to encourage them to do their best while also keeping a watchful eye on them as they get used to a new style of learning.
Here are some good tips for new homeschoolers that might help you out as well.
Final Words
Homeschooling can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. It all starts with creating a positive environment where your child can learn.
On top of that, you need the best tools to help them out with any task. A printer is one such tool. Any of the options outlined here will surely meet a variety of homeschool needs and beyond.
Have you or your child ever been homeschooled before? Do you have any suggestions for anyone just starting the process? Let us know in the comments below.
