Finding the right printer for occasional printing needs can be frustrating. Many printers clog up or waste expensive ink when left unused for weeks. The best printers for infrequent use include laser printers like the Brother HL-L2350DW and ink tank models like the Epson EcoTank ET-2720, which both offer reliability and low long-term costs for occasional users.
Choosing between laser and inkjet technology makes a big difference for occasional printing. Laser printers use toner that doesn’t dry out when sitting idle, making them perfect for infrequent use. Ink tank printers cost more upfront but save money over time with their refillable tanks that resist drying out.
Your printing habits matter when picking the right model. Think about how often you print, what types of documents you need, and whether you want extra features like scanning. The best printers for occasional projects offer a balance of upfront cost, operating expense, and reliability when left unused for extended periods.
If you only print occasionally, you need a printer that can sit idle for long periods without drying out, breaking down, or wasting ink. Here are the best printers for infrequent use based on reliability, ink efficiency, and affordability.
Best Printers for Infrequent Use
1. Brother HL-L2350DW – Best Overall (Laser Printer)
✅ Pros:
- Toner doesn’t dry out like ink
- Fast, crisp black-and-white printing
- Wireless & duplex (double-sided) printing
- Compact and reliable
❌ Cons:
- No color printing
- Toner replacements can be costly
🔍 Review: This monochrome laser printer is perfect for users who only print occasionally. Unlike inkjet printers, laser printers use toner, which doesn’t dry out even if left unused for months. The HL-L2350DW offers wireless printing, automatic two-sided printing, and is relatively affordable.
2. Brother MFC-L3750CDW – Best Color Laser Printer
✅ Pros:
- No ink drying issues
- Prints high-quality color documents
- Wireless, scanner, copier, and fax
- Decent cost per page
❌ Cons:
- Larger and heavier than inkjets
- More expensive upfront
🔍 Review: If you need occasional color printing, this laser model is a great choice. Unlike inkjets, laser printers don’t suffer from clogging, making them ideal for infrequent use. The toner lasts a long time, and the print quality is excellent for text and graphics.
3. HP Neverstop 1202w – Best Budget Laser Printer
✅ Pros:
- Super low operating costs
- Toner lasts for up to 5,000 pages
- No ink drying issues
- Small footprint for a laser printer
❌ Cons:
- Black-and-white only
- No automatic duplex printing
🔍 Review: This refillable laser printer is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional laser printers. It comes pre-loaded with enough toner to print thousands of pages before needing a refill. Perfect if you print sporadically but want a worry-free experience.
4. Canon PIXMA TR150 – Best Portable Inkjet Printer
✅ Pros:
- Compact and wireless
- Can run on a battery (optional)
- High-quality photo and document printing
❌ Cons:
- Ink can dry out if not used regularly
- Slower than laser printers
🔍 Review: If you occasionally need color prints or photo printing, this portable inkjet is a great choice. It’s compact and supports wireless printing, making it easy to store and use when needed. However, like all inkjets, it requires periodic printing to prevent ink from drying out.
5. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best Inkjet for Low-Maintenance
✅ Pros:
- Refillable ink tanks last for years
- Very low cost per page
- No cartridges—ink refills are cheap
- Decent print quality
❌ Cons:
- Ink can dry out if left too long
- Not as crisp as a laser printer for text
🔍 Review: Unlike traditional inkjets, EcoTank printers use refillable tanks that last months or years before needing a refill. While ink can still dry out if left unused for too long, it’s far less wasteful than cartridge-based printers.
What to Look for in a Printer for Infrequent Use
✔ Laser over Inkjet – Toner doesn’t dry out, while ink does.
✔ Auto-On/Off & Low Power Mode – Helps keep the printer running efficiently.
✔ Budget-Friendly Toner or Ink Refills – Avoid high replacement costs.
✔ Compact Size – If you don’t print often, you don’t need a bulky machine.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
- Best Overall: Brother HL-L2350DW (Monochrome Laser)
- Best for Color Printing: Brother MFC-L3750CDW (Color Laser)
- Best Budget Choice: HP Neverstop 1202w (Monochrome Laser)
- Best for Occasional Photos: Canon PIXMA TR150 (Inkjet)
- Best Low-Maintenance Inkjet: Epson EcoTank ET-2800
If you don’t print frequently, laser printers are your best bet since they don’t clog or dry out. If you must use an inkjet, go with an EcoTank or a portable model to reduce ink waste.
Key Takeaways
- Laser and ink tank printers perform better for infrequent use because they don’t dry out or clog like traditional inkjet models.
- Consider both the upfront price and long-term operating costs when selecting a printer for occasional use.
- Reliable printers for infrequent printing should offer wireless connectivity and minimal maintenance requirements.
Understanding Printers for Infrequent Use
Choosing the right printer for occasional use requires knowing key differences between printer types and their capabilities. The printer technology and output type greatly affect how well a device performs when used only now and then.
Inkjet vs. Laser Printers
Inkjet printers spray tiny droplets of ink onto paper. While they’re often cheaper to buy, they can be costly for occasional users. The ink may dry out between uses, leading to clogged print heads and wasted cartridges.
Laser printers use toner powder instead of liquid ink. This powder doesn’t dry out, making laser printers ideal for infrequent use. They typically cost more upfront but save money over time.
Some inkjet models now feature ink tank systems. These tanks supply ink a little at a time to prevent drying out. This makes them better for occasional printing than standard inkjet printers.
Best for Infrequent Use: Laser printers or ink tank systems
Monochrome vs. Color Printing
Monochrome laser printers print only in black and white. They offer the lowest running costs and highest reliability for rare use. Popular models like the Brother HL-L2350DW and HP LaserJet Pro M15w are top picks for occasional users.
Color laser printers can print both black and white and color documents. They cost more than monochrome models but less than inkjets over time. The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw is often rated highly for occasional color printing needs.
Color printing needs should guide your choice. If you rarely need color, a monochrome laser printer will be the most cost-effective option. For those who need color but print rarely, a color laser printer makes more sense than an inkjet.
Key Features for Occasional Printing
Choosing a printer for infrequent use requires focus on specific features that prevent problems during long idle periods. The right printer will maintain print quality, offer simple connectivity, provide user-friendly controls, and handle various paper types efficiently.
Print Quality and Resolution
Print quality matters even for occasional users. Look for inkjet printers with at least 4800 x 1200 dpi for crisp text and vivid photos. Laser printers typically offer 600 x 600 dpi which is perfect for clear text documents.
Inkjet printers produce better photos but may struggle with idle time as ink can dry out. Laser printers excel at text documents and can sit unused for months without quality issues.
For occasional photo printing, consider printers with dedicated photo trays. The HP ENVY series offers advanced photo features with a separate photo paper tray.
Print speed matters too. The Brother monochrome laser printer delivers up to 21 pages per minute so you won’t wait long for your documents.
Connectivity Options
Modern printers offer multiple ways to connect. Basic USB connections work well but limit flexibility. Wi-Fi connectivity allows printing from anywhere in your home.
Key connectivity options to consider:
- Wi-Fi Direct for wireless printing without a router
- Ethernet ports for wired network connections
- Bluetooth for quick mobile device links
- Cloud printing services like Google Cloud Print
The HP OfficeJet 3830 provides excellent wireless capabilities for home users. Wi-Fi connection lets multiple family members print from different devices.
Many newer printers support direct email printing. Send an email to your printer’s address with attachments and it prints them automatically. This works great for quick document printing without complex setup.
Ease of Use and Mobile Printing
A user-friendly interface makes occasional printing less stressful. Touch screens offer simple navigation compared to button-only controls. Look for intuitive menu systems that don’t require frequent use to remember.
Mobile printing is now essential. Most printer brands have apps that connect to your printer:
- HP Smart app
- Epson iPrint
- Canon PRINT
- Brother iPrint&Scan
These apps let you print directly from your phone or tablet. You can also scan documents to your mobile device.
The HP ENVY 5055 stands out for ease of use. Its simple setup and user-friendly controls make it perfect for infrequent users who don’t want to relearn printer operation each time.
Voice activation through smart home systems adds another layer of convenience. “Alexa, print my shopping list” makes occasional printing effortless.
Paper Handling and Duplex Printing
Paper handling features affect how useful your printer is for different jobs. A standard input tray should hold at least 100 sheets for occasional use. This prevents frequent refilling.
Important paper handling features:
- Multiple paper size support (letter, legal, envelopes)
- Automatic document feeder for scanning multiple pages
- Output tray capacity of at least 50 sheets
- Special media support (cardstock, photo paper)
Automatic duplex printing saves paper by printing on both sides. The HP Laserjet Pro M254dw offers this feature, reducing paper costs over time.
Paper jam prevention technology helps avoid frustration during infrequent use. Some printers have paper guides and sensors that reduce jam frequency. This matters especially when the printer sits unused for weeks or months.
Cost Considerations for Infrequent Users
When you print only once in a while, your printer costs go beyond just the price tag. Smart choices can save you money on both purchase price and what you spend over time.
Initial Investment vs. Operating Cost
The price you pay upfront for a printer is just the beginning of your spending journey. Many cheap printers end up costing more in the long run due to expensive ink or toner.
Laser printers like the Brother HL-L3270CDW cost more to buy but often save money later. This model uses toner that lasts for up to 3,000 black pages and 2,300 color pages.
Inkjet printers have a lower starting price. But their ink costs add up fast. Think about how many pages you’ll print over several years.
The HP Laserjet Pro M15w is worth checking out for its low total cost. While you pay more at first, you save on toner in the future.
Ink and Toner Efficiency
For those who print rarely, ink waste becomes a big problem. Inkjet printers can dry up when not used often. This wastes money when you need to replace cartridges.
Laser printers use dry toner powder that doesn’t dry out. The Brother Laser Printer HL-L2350DW is known for its cheap running costs. It works well for people who print once in a while.
Some printers now offer ink tank systems instead of cartridges. These cost more upfront but the ink lasts much longer. They can print thousands of pages before needing a refill.
Always check the cost per page when buying a printer. This number tells you the true cost of using the device.
Energy Efficiency and Ink Drying
Energy use matters even for printers that sit idle most of the time. Modern printers have sleep modes that use less power when not in use.
The ink drying issue is a big problem for infrequent users. Inkjets can clog when not used for weeks. This leads to wasted ink during cleaning cycles.
The Canon PIXMA TR4520 is good for occasional use but you should print a test page every week or two. This keeps the ink flowing and prevents clogs.
Laser printers don’t have ink drying problems. The HP Laserjet Pro M15w can sit unused for months and still work perfectly when needed.
Some newer inkjets have better anti-drying features. Look for models with capping systems that seal the print head when not in use.
Top Printer Models and Features for Occasional Use
Finding the right printer for your infrequent printing needs can save you money and space. The best printers for occasional use combine reliability with low maintenance requirements and affordable operating costs.
Best All-in-One Printers
All-in-one printers provide great value for occasional users who need multiple functions. The HP ENVY 5055 offers printing, scanning, and copying capabilities at a reasonable price. It connects easily through Wi-Fi and works with the HP Smart app for mobile printing.
The Canon PIXMA TR4520 is another excellent choice that includes fax functionality. Its compact size makes it perfect for home offices with limited space. The auto power on/off feature helps save energy when the printer sits unused.
For higher quality photo printing, the Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 stands out. It features a 30-page automatic document feeder (ADF) and prints directly from memory cards or USB drives. This printer produces vibrant photos and sharp text documents.
Top Inkjet Printers for Sporadic Printing
Inkjet printers work well for users who print colorful documents or photos now and then. The HP OfficeJet 3830 delivers good quality outputs at a reasonable price. It has low maintenance costs making it ideal for infrequent use.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 excels at photo printing with six ink colors for superior image quality. Its wide-format capability lets you print up to 13×19 inches – perfect for occasional photo projects.
Look for inkjet printers with:
- Individual ink tanks (replace only colors you need)
- Built-in cleaning cycles (prevents clogged print heads)
- Wireless connectivity (print from anywhere)
Many newer inkjet models have improved “sleep modes” that seal ink cartridges between uses. This important feature prevents ink from drying out during long periods of inactivity.
Leading Laser Printers for Casual Use
Laser printers offer reliability and lower cost per page for text documents. The Brother HL-L2350DW stands as the top choice for occasional users. This compact monochrome laser printer delivers fast printing at 32 pages per minute with automatic duplex capability.
The HP LaserJet Pro M15w is one of the smallest laser printers available. It fits easily on a desk or shelf while delivering crisp black and white prints. Setup takes minutes with the HP Smart app.
For small workgroups, the Brother HL-L2395DW adds scanning and copying functions to a reliable laser printer base. Its toner cartridge yields about 1,200 pages before replacement.
Laser printers shine for occasional users because toner doesn’t dry out between uses. They start up quickly and deliver the first page faster than most inkjet models.
Enhancing the Printing Experience
When using printers occasionally, certain features and software can make the process simpler and more efficient. These elements help even infrequent users print with less hassle.
Supplementary Features for Convenience
Many printers now include useful features that make printing easier for occasional users. Auto-on functionality wakes the printer when you send a job, saving power when not in use. Borderless printing lets you create photos without white edges, perfect for special projects.
Duplex printing (printing on both sides) saves paper and reduces waste. This is helpful for those who print rarely but want to make their supplies last longer.
Look for printers with multiple connection options like USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This gives you flexibility in how you connect to your printer.
High-quality print capabilities are important even for occasional use. Many modern printers offer resolution settings that can be adjusted based on your needs.
Paper handling features like different paper size support can also improve your experience when printing only now and then.
Software Integration and Smart Apps
Modern printers work with apps that make printing much easier. The HP Smart App lets you print from your phone or tablet without turning on your computer.
Most printer brands have their own apps with these basic functions:
- Print from anywhere using your phone
- Check ink levels before printing
- Order supplies when running low
- Scan documents using your phone camera
Smartphone integration means you can print directly from photo albums, email, or cloud storage. This is perfect for quick, occasional prints without the need to transfer files to a computer first.
Look for printers that support Apple AirPrint or Google Cloud Print for easy wireless printing from your devices. These systems make printing simple even if you haven’t used your printer in weeks.
Some printer apps also send alerts when ink is low or when maintenance is needed. This helps prevent failed print jobs when you finally need to print something important.
Recommendations for Different Printing Needs
Finding the right printer for your exact needs makes a big difference in cost and satisfaction. Your printer should match how often you use it and what you print most.
Best For Photo Printing
Photo printers must handle special paper and produce rich colors. The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw works well for home photo printing when used from time to time.
This printer creates sharp images with good color depth. It uses laser technology that won’t dry out between uses.
For better photo results, look at inkjet printers with multiple color cartridges. These give more detail in pictures.
Check that your chosen printer can handle glossy photo paper. Regular paper won’t show photos at their best.
The print resolution matters too. Higher numbers (like 4800 x 1200 dpi) mean clearer photos with better detail.
Key features for photo printing:
- Multiple color ink tanks
- Support for photo paper
- High resolution output
- Good color accuracy
Ideal for High-Volume Printing
For offices or busy homes that print many pages at once, laser printers work best. The Brother Laser Printer HL-L2350DW offers fast printing and low cost per page.
Laser printers handle big jobs without ink drying issues. They warm up quickly and print many pages fast.
Look for printers with large paper trays that hold 250 sheets or more. This saves time on refilling.
Double-sided printing (duplex) helps save paper. Most modern laser printers include this feature.
Speed comparison of popular models:
| Printer Model | Pages Per Minute | Cost Per Page |
|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2350DW | 32 | $0.03 |
| HP LaserJet Pro M15w | 19 | $0.04 |
| Canon imageCLASS | 22 | $0.03 |
Wireless printing lets multiple people use the printer from different rooms or devices.
Optimal Choices for Home Use
The best home printer for rare use must stay ready even when sitting unused for weeks. HP Laserjet Pro M15w fits this need well as a basic black and white option.
Ink tank printers work great for homes too. They cost more upfront but save money over time with cheap refills.
Consider how much space you have. Compact printers fit on small desks or shelves without taking over the room.
All-in-one printers add scanning and copying. These help with school projects and home paperwork.
Best home printer features:
- Small size
- Easy setup
- Long-lasting ink or toner
- Reasonable price
- Simple controls
Wi-Fi connection lets you print from phones and tablets. This adds convenience for quick printing jobs.
Check if the printer works with your devices. Most support Windows and Mac, but not all work with Chromebooks.
Printer Maintenance and Longevity
Proper care of your printer ensures it works well when you need it, even if you don’t print often. Regular maintenance prevents common problems and extends your printer’s life.
Maintaining Print Quality Over Time
Basic Maintenance Tasks:
- Run printer cleaning cycles every 3-4 weeks
- Dust the exterior and paper trays monthly
- Keep your printer covered when not in use
- Store paper in a dry place to prevent moisture damage
For laser printers, replace the toner cartridges only when print quality drops. High-yield toner cartridges last longer between changes and are better for rare users.
Inkjet printer owners should print a test page weekly to prevent nozzles from drying out. This small step helps maintain reliable performance for your occasional printing needs.
The HP Instant Ink program can be helpful for inkjet users who print rarely. It tracks usage and sends new cartridges before the old ones dry out.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Quick Fixes for Infrequent Users:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Streaky prints | Run head cleaning utility |
| Paper jams | Check for torn paper bits |
| Faded text | Replace or shake toner cartridge |
| Connectivity issues | Restart printer and router |
When printer heads clog from sitting unused, try the built-in cleaning function first. If that fails, use a damp lint-free cloth to gently clean the print heads.
For laser printers with fading prints, take out the toner and gently rock it side to side. This redistributes the toner and can extend its life.
Check your printing capacity limits if you suddenly need to print more pages. Some models work better with consistent use rather than long idle periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Printer selection for occasional use depends on technology type, print quality needs and budget constraints. The right choice can save money and prevent frustration with dried-out ink or maintenance issues.
What type of printer is most suitable for low-volume printing at home?
Laser printers work best for infrequent home printing. They use toner powder instead of liquid ink so they won’t dry out between uses.
Ink tank printers are another good option. They have refillable ink reservoirs that last much longer than standard cartridges.
Traditional inkjet printers can work if you print at least once weekly to prevent clogging. They typically cost less upfront but may require more maintenance for occasional users.
How do laser printers perform for users who print occasionally?
Laser printers excel for occasional use because their toner doesn’t dry out like liquid ink. This means you can go weeks or months between print jobs without problems.
They have higher upfront costs than inkjets but lower per-page costs over time. Many laser printer models now come in compact sizes suitable for home offices.
Color laser printers exist but cost more than black-and-white versions. They remain ready to print instantly whenever needed.
Are there any specific models of ink tank printers recommended for users who print infrequently?
Epson EcoTank printers work well for infrequent users. Their large ink tanks can last years for occasional printing needs.
Canon MegaTank printers offer similar benefits with low running costs. The initial purchase price is higher but pays off through reduced ink expenses.
Brother INKvestment Tank printers combine cartridge and tank systems for reliability during long periods without use.
What features should one look for in an all-in-one printer for occasional home use?
Wireless connectivity is essential for modern all-in-one printers. This lets you print from phones and tablets without cables.
Auto-document feeders help when scanning multiple pages. This saves time compared to placing each page on the glass.
The Canon PIXMA TR4520 offers these features while staying compact and suitable for infrequent users.
Can you suggest any printers that maintain their performance despite infrequent use?
The Brother HL-L2350DW laser printer maintains consistent performance even with months between uses. It starts quickly and prints reliably when needed.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw offers color laser printing that stays ready for occasional use. It includes scanning and copying functions too.
Epson EcoTank ET-2720 uses ink tank technology that prevents drying issues common in standard inkjets.
Are there particular brands that stand out for durability in printers used sporadically?
Brother printers have a strong reputation for reliability with infrequent use. Their laser models particularly excel at sitting unused for long periods.
HP has improved their inkjet technology to resist clogging. Their newer models include maintenance routines that help prevent dried ink problems.
Canon printers balance quality and longevity well. Both their PIXMA and imageCLASS lines receive positive reviews from occasional users.
