If you’ve been wondering whether you can print from your iPad, you’re in the right place. There are some great printers for iPads out there, but you need to keep a few factors in mind. Not all printers will work with iPads, so I’ve put together this guide to the best printer for iPad.
Printing from your iPad is so convenient. It will save you time, and there’s no need to faff around with USB cables. But for that, you’ll need the best wireless printer for iPad. Then, you can print via AirPrint and WiFi, giving you more flexibility.
In this guide, you’ll find out what makes a printer suitable for use with an iPad. I’ve created a buying guide to help you narrow down the compatible printers for iPad.
Then, we’ll get onto the reviews! I’ve researched carefully and picked out the best printers for iPad. They come at a range of prices, so there’s something for everyone. Read on to find the best printer for your iPad.
Buying Guide to the Best Printer to use with iPad
You need to know a few things before buying a printer for iPad. Otherwise, you could end up with a printer that doesn’t connect smoothly with your device.
Here are the key factors to look out for when shopping around for compatible printers for iPad.
Wireless Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is crucial if you’re looking for a printer for iPad. You don’t want to connect your iPad to the printer with a cable every time. That’s time-consuming and impractical. So, you need a printer that connects to WiFi or Bluetooth
However, you may still want the option of printing via USB or Ethernet cable. Then, you can connect your device and print, even if you don’t have an internet connection.
Even better, some printers offer Wireless Direct printing. So, your printer can connect directly to your device, even without a connection nearby. This method provides the ultimate versatility for printing.
A good rule is the more connectivity options a printer has, the better. You’ll be able to choose the way that works best for you – which may differ depending on which device you’re using.
Mobile App Support
Another thing to consider is whether the printer will support your mobile apps? On the iPad, you probably have a few favorite apps you use. Printing from within these apps with save you time and streamline the process. For example, you could print your illustrations in Procreate.
But first of all, you should check whether these apps are compatible with your printer. Otherwise, you may find that printing becomes a more complicated process. For example, it will take a lot longer if you need to save your files to another location and then print them. So, a printer with mobile app support is a real bonus.
Operating System Compatibility
This is another important factor to think about. You’ll need to check what operating systems the printer can support. That’s crucial if you run devices that run on different systems.
For example, your iPad will run on mobile iOS, but you might have a Microsoft laptop. And to further confuse things, you could have an Android phone. Of course, that will depend on your situation.
Some printers are more basic and only work with Microsoft or Mac computers. But others are designed to work with all devices, including smartphones and tablets.
The best printer will support multiple operating systems. And that way, you’ll have more flexibility in how you print.
Printer Size
Printers range from compact to bulky machines and everything in between. Before you buy, think about where you’ll put the printer and how much space you have available.
If you’re tight on space, you’ll know to look for a compact printer. So, you can rule out any larger, boxy printers straight away.
But if space isn’t an issue, you could consider a larger printer if it’s more affordable. These bigger printers also tend to offer more features.
For example, many are all-in-one machines that scan, copy, and fax. So, choosing the right printer will come down to what you need most from it.
Cost of Printer & Ink
You should have a budget in mind when shopping for a new printer. That way, you’ll know whether to consider a printer or move on.
However, it gets a bit more complicated than that as there are a couple of factors here. You know the printer’s initial cost, but you should also consider the ongoing costs. That includes the maintenance cost and the price of the ink cartridges.
For example, some printers take high-yield ink cartridges that last a long time. While others need replacing much more frequently, and that quickly adds up.
Also, find out whether the printer can use third-party cartridges, as they tend to be much cheaper.
It’s worth finding out whether the printer comes with a warranty. That can add more peace of mind, as you can get your printer replaced free of charge if it breaks down. But make sure to have a good look at the reviews. They give insight into the printer’s durability and whether it’s prone to malfunction.
Calculating the ongoing costs gives you a better picture of how much you’ll spend on the printer. What might seem like a cheap printer could cost you more in the long run. So, weighing up these two factors will help you choose the best printer for your budget.
Extra Features
Some printers offer extra features, which may be another incentive to go for a specific model. For example, security features are a great addition when printing over WiFi. They prevent anyone from hacking your printer and gaining access to your documents.
All-in-one printers are designed to meet all your office needs. So, they’re helpful if you need to scan, fax, or make photocopies. But otherwise, you might find you never use these features anyway.
Other things to look out for include auto-duplex printing (when it prints on both sides of the paper). Some printers offer advanced features like photo printing and borderless prints. So, you’ll need to consider what your printer needs and look through the features carefully.
HP OfficeJet 250 Portable Printer
Best Wireless Printer for iPad
(Image credit: HP)
The HP OfficeJet 250 is a standout printer for printing from your iPad or phone. This printer has excellent connectivity options, including WiFi and WiFi Direct. So, you can print from almost any device, even if you don’t have an internet connection.
That also means you can print from your iPad without having a USB cable handy. That’s even more useful as not all iPads have a USB port. So, it saves you from needing to buy an adapter and ensure you have it nearby. Instead, you can print all your documents wirelessly right from your iPad.
The OfficeJet 250 is ideal for printing digital illustrations from Photoshop. But you can also use it to print all sorts of documents saved on your iPad.
So, what else does this printer have going for it? It’s a mobile printer that’s super compact, sleek, and portable. Not only does it look cool, but it’s just 15 inches long and will take up hardly any space at home. So, you can even take it with you to work or on a trip.
This printer is designed to have a rechargeable battery as well as a regular power input. That means you can plug it in when you’re at home.
But the long battery life allows you to use it even when you’re on the go. The OfficeJet 250 charges quickly, allowing you to print large volumes after a short time. So, you can print anywhere, any time, without worrying about the practicalities.
And it’s also an all-in-one printer that can scan, copy, and send faxes. Despite its small size, it ticks all the boxes and is a great portable model.
You’ll find the 2.6-inch touchscreen a nice addition. It allows you to navigate the printer menu easily and select the right options. So, you won’t waste ink and paper by printing the wrong pages or size.
Are there any drawbacks? This printer only takes two ink cartridges – black and tri-color. As a result, you might need to replace the color ink more often than with individual cartridges. But you can go for high-yield cartridges if you prefer.
Overall, HP OfficeJet 250 is a solid option for a printer for iPad. It has superb connectivity, fast printing, and is easy to use. Plus, you have the advantage that you can use it no matter where you are – even without an internet connection. So, it provides amazing versatility and flexibility.
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Brand: HP
- Paper Formats: 4 inch x 6 Inches, 5 inch x 8 Inches, 5 inch x 7 Inches, 3.5 inch x 5 Inches, 8 inch x 10 Inches, 3 inch x 5 Inches
- Printer Output: Color
Pros:
- This printer offers wireless and WiFi Direct printing
- It supports iPads, smartphones, and other mobile devices
- It’s super portable, and compact
- It can print, scan, and copy too
- You can charge it in 90 minutes
Cons:
- The paper tray only holds 50 sheets
- It’s a little heavy to carry
- You’ll need to remember to charge it so that you can use it
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AmazonHP OfficeJet 200 Portable Printer
Best Portable Printer for iPad
(Image credit: HP)
So you like the look of the OfficeJet 250, but it’s out of your price range? Then, check out the HP OfficeJet 200 instead.
This printer is from the same product line as the OfficeJet 250 and has many of the same features. It’s also quite a bit cheaper, making it a great buy for anyone on a budget.
There are some differences between the two models. This pared-back printer doesn’t have a touchscreen display, and the print speed isn’t as fast. But there’s still a lot going for this slim portable printer. It works seamlessly with any device, from your computer to your iPad.
The HP OfficeJet 200 measures less than 15 x 18 inches. So, it’s super compact and takes up hardly any space. It also looks cool and modern, with its sleek black design and smooth casing.
And just like with the OfficeJet 250, you can use this printer on the go. Its rechargeable battery has a long life, so you can print no matter where you are. It’s ideal if you travel frequently and need a good portable printing solution.
Despite the same size, you don’t lose any image quality in your documents. Everything from word documents to illustrations comes out crisp and sharp.
As mentioned above, this model doesn’t have a touchscreen like the Officejet 250. Instead, it has a small display in the center of the printer. You can use the buttons on either side to navigate and select the right options. It’s pretty straightforward to use, even for less techy people.
Plus, wireless printing is simple and easy with the OfficeJet 200. It also supports cloud-based and Wireless Direct printing. That comes in useful when you need to print but don’t have an internet connection.
This printer takes standard or high-yield ink cartridges. So, you can decide what type of ink best suits your needs and factor that into your budget.
The HP OfficeJet 200 is a fantastic choice if you want a low-cost portable printer for iPad. It’s cheaper than the OfficeJet 250 but has many of the same great features.
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Brand: HP
- Paper Formats: 3 x 5 to 8.5 x 14, Letter, Legal, Envelope
- Printer Output: Color
Pros:
- A great compact printer for printing from anywhere
- It has good mobile options for printing from your iPad
- It offers cloud-based and WiFi Direct printing
- You can optionally use high-yield cartridges
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a touchscreen display
- You’ll need to charge the battery before you use it on the go
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AmazonHP DeskJet 3755 Compact All-in-One Wireless Printer
Best Budget Printer to use with iPad
(Image credit: HP)
If you’re looking for a budget printer for your iPad, check out the HP DeskJet 3755. This printer is super affordable and suitable for all your printing needs.
With the DeskJet 3755, you can easily print from your iPad. It has an excellent range of features, all at a very low cost.
This printer is an all-in-one printer that can scan, copy, and print. It also supports wireless printing from all sorts of devices including iPads. You can connect over your WiFi network to print from your iPad, smartphone, or computer.
But unlike the OfficeJet printers, this one doesn’t have WiFi Direct printing. That means you’ll need an internet connection to print. But in most cases, that won’t be a problem, so it’s not a deal-breaker.
The DeskJet 3755 comes with the HP Smart App, which is handy for a variety of uses. You can scan documents or print wirelessly from your iPad or computer. It also makes the printer setup quick and simple and allows you to order ink easily. Another option is to hook up Instant Ink so that you never run out of ink when you need it.
This printer is ideal if you’re short on space, as it’s lightweight and compact. It measures 16 x 7 x 6 inches and will fit on any table or desktop.
Overall, the DeskJet 3755 is the best printer to use with iPad if you’re looking for an all-in-one device. At such a low price, it’s a real bargain. It has streamlined wireless printing options, making it perfect for iPad users. There’s very little not to like about this printer!
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Brand: HP
- Paper Formats: 3 x 5 to 8.5 x 14, Letter, Legal, Envelope
- Printer Output: Color
Pros:
- This printer is very low-cost and provides excellent value for money
- It’s an all-in-one printer with lots of great features
- You can print wirelessly from your iPad or other devices
- It’s compact and lightweight
Cons:
- It doesn’t have WiFi Direct printing
- It doesn’t have a touchscreen display
- The output tray can only hold 25 sheets
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AmazonHP OfficeJet Pro 8035 All-in-One Wireless Printer
Best Printer Overall
(Image credit: HP)
If you have a bigger budget, it’s well worth taking a look at the OfficeJet Pro 8035. This printer is the most powerful on this list and the best wireless printer for iPad around.
The OfficeJet 8035 is perfect if you want to increase your productivity. It can handle high-volume printing at fast speeds up to 20 ppm. So, you can get through your workload much quicker and won’t have to deal with long print queues.
This printer can handle a wide variety of print media, including glossy paper and card stock. It has great printing capabilities, such as borderless prints up to 8.5 x 11 inches. So, it’s ideal if you need a versatile printer for all sorts of documents. You can even print high-quality photos at home, saving you a lot of money compared to print shop prices.
Even better, this printer comes with code for an Instant Ink supply that could last up to 8 months. So, you won’t need to buy any refills for a while after buying this printer.
As you’d expect, the OfficeJet Pro has wireless and cloud-printing options. You can sync it directly to apps like Google Drive for quick and easy printing.
Plus, the self-healing WiFi system is handy in case your connection cuts out in the middle of a print job. The printer will automatically re-connect, so you don’t need to do anything.
Security features are essential for wireless printing. This printer has a built-in security system and encryption to protect your data. While password protection and document protection should ensure your peace of mind.
And if you’re eco-conscious, you’ll love that it’s made sustainably from recycled plastics.
Admittedly, this printer is larger than the other printers on this list. It’s a little bulky as printers go, but it will still easily fit on your desktop. And it’s also designed to be smaller than the earlier OfficeJet Pro models.
The OfficeJet Pro 8035 is one of the more expensive printers on this list. But it’s well worth it for the superb features and versatile printing you get with this model. It makes printing from your iPad seamless, quick, and efficient. So, you can let the printer do its thing and get on with what you need to do.
This printer is a great option for a comprehensive all-in-one printer for your iPad.
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Brand: HP
- Paper Formats: 3.5 x 5; 4 x 6; 5 x 7; 8 x 10; 8.5 x 14
- Printer Output: Color
Pros:
- A powerful and efficient printer
- It has fast print speeds and offers borderless printing
- It can handle a range of print media including card stock and photo paper
- You can print photos from home
- It supports wireless and cloud-based printing from your iPad
Cons:
- It’s a little bulky
- It’s more expensive
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AmazonHP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer
Best Affordable Printer
(Image credit: HP)
The HP OfficeJet 3830 is an affordable printer with great features and decent specs. It’s much more affordable than the 8035 model, making it suitable for anyone on a budget.
This printer provides everything you need for home printing. It’s also ideal if you run a small business and need to print occasionally.
It’s an all-in-one printer offering scan, fax, and copying. Thanks to its quick and easy wireless printing from iPads, phones, or tablets, it’s on this list.
The HP OfficeJet 3830 also has a touchscreen display and an ADF for hands-free printing. Combined with wireless printing, this printer allows you to print from anywhere, stress-free. You don’t need to hover over the printer or connect up with wires and cables. Instead, you get a lot more flexibility over how you print.
As with most HP printers, the HP Smart App is included. So, you can quickly set up your printer, order ink cartridges, and print from the cloud. It integrates smoothly with programs like Dropbox, Google Drive, and iCloud. So, you can print from anywhere you have your documents saved.
You can also sign up for Instant Ink to keep your ink topped up at all times. This service automatically re-orders ink when you’re running low, so you’re never caught out with no ink left.
This printer has a sleek and modern design. It’s very compact and won’t take up too much space in your office. That’s ideal if you work from home or you’re tight on space.
If you prefer a quiet work environment, you can switch on the optional quiet mode. That will ensure you can keep your focus and get more work done while your printer is in use. Plus, it’s energy-efficient and can take high-yield cartridges.
As you can see, this printer has a lot going for it. And that all comes in at a very low price, making this printer affordable and accessible. You don’t need to dig into your savings for the OfficeJet 3830, which is one of the best printers around.
It doesn’t have such a fast print speed as the OfficeJet Pro. But if you want a cheaper printer, it’s hard to go wrong with this one. It provides everything you need from an all-in-one printer for iPad.
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Brand: HP
- Paper Formats: 3 x 5 to 8.5 x 14, Letter, Legal, Envelope
- Printer Output: Color
Pros:
- One of the best affordable printers for iPad
- It has great print quality and a range of good features
- You can print wirelessly from your iPad
- It supports cloud-based printing and comes with the HP Smart Ink app
- It also has an ADF and touchscreen display
Cons:
- It’s a little slower than the OfficeJet Pro printers
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The Wrap Up
Now, you have a good idea of what you need from a printer for the iPad. And you might have found the perfect printer in the review above.
The best printer for iPad will work seamlessly with any iPad and offer wireless printing. You should also look out for high print quality and fast print speeds. Ideally, it won’t take up too much space, either. Don’t forget to check out the cost of the ink cartridges and calculate that into your budget, too!
I kept all these factors in mind when choosing the product to include in this list. So, every printer on this list should tick all the right boxes. You can browse through and find one that suits your needs and budget. Let me know which one you go for in the comments below!
Got any other questions about printers, iPads, and more? Share them with me below! And if there’s something specific you’d like me to review, let me know!
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