Top 5 Printers for Cricut: Your Essential Guide

Do you dream of making amazing custom t-shirts, stickers, or decorations with your Cricut machine? You have tons of creative ideas, but there’s a missing piece: a great printer! It can feel overwhelming to pick the perfect printer that works well with your Cricut projects. Many printers just don’t produce the vibrant colors or sharp images you need, and sometimes they don’t work smoothly with the Cricut software.

Choosing the right printer is super important for bringing your Cricut creations to life. You want colors that pop and designs that look professional. But with so many printers out there, how do you know which one is the best fit for your crafting needs? It’s a common problem for Cricut crafters, and it can slow down your creative flow.

Don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll explore what makes a printer great for Cricut users and break down the features that matter most. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident about choosing a printer that will help you make stunning projects. Let’s dive in and find the perfect printing partner for your Cricut adventures!

Our Top 5 Printer For Cricut Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Printer For Cricut Detailed Reviews

1. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – The Ideal Basic Home Printer – White

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – The Ideal Basic Home Printer - White, Medium

Rating: 9.1/10

Meet the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, a wireless color all-in-one printer designed to make printing at home easy and affordable. This printer ditches traditional ink cartridges for innovative, high-capacity ink tanks. It’s perfect for everyday tasks, from printing homework to making copies of important documents.

What We Like:

  • No more expensive ink cartridges! The EcoFit ink bottles are easy to fill and save you up to 90% on replacement ink.
  • You get a lot of ink in the box – enough for up to 2 years of printing. This means fewer trips to the store and less worry about running out of ink.
  • It’s good for the environment because it creates zero cartridge waste.
  • The Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology delivers sharp text and colorful pictures.
  • It has a built-in scanner and copier, making it simple to digitize documents or make quick copies.
  • Epson offers a worry-free 2-year limited warranty with registration.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it’s great for basic home use, it might not be the best choice for heavy-duty printing needs or professional photo printing.
  • The setup process could be a little more straightforward for less tech-savvy users.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a fantastic option for families and students looking for a cost-effective and reliable printer. Its cartridge-free system and long-lasting ink make it a smart choice for everyday printing needs.

2. Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer with Mobile and Tablet Printing

Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer with Mobile and Tablet Printing, Black

Rating: 8.5/10

The Canon Pixma MG3620 is a versatile black all-in-one printer that handles printing, copying, and scanning with ease. It’s designed for convenience, especially for those who love using their phones and tablets for everyday tasks. This printer makes it simple to print and scan right from your mobile devices, fitting right into a busy, modern lifestyle.

What We Like:

  • It’s wireless, so you can connect without messy cables.
  • You can print and scan directly from your phone or tablet.
  • It automatically prints on both sides of the paper, saving you time and paper.
  • The printer is compact and won’t take up much space.
  • You can connect it to Alexa to get alerts when you’re low on ink and even reorder it automatically.
  • It’s ENERGY STAR certified, which means it’s good for the environment.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The print speeds are 9.9 pages per minute for black and white and 5.7 pages per minute for color, which is okay but not super fast for large jobs.
  • The paper capacity is 100 sheets, so you might need to refill it often if you print a lot.

Overall, the Canon Pixma MG3620 is a smart choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, wireless printer that connects to their mobile devices. Its smart ink reordering feature is a real game-changer for busy households.

3. HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer

HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier, Best-for-home, 3 month Instant Ink trial included, AI-enabled (588S5A)

Rating: 9.5/10

The HP DeskJet 2855e is your go-to printer for all your home needs. It’s a wireless all-in-one that can print, scan, and copy. This printer is designed for easy home use, whether you’re printing school papers, important documents, or your favorite recipes. Plus, it comes with a 3-month trial of HP Instant Ink, so you won’t run out of ink anytime soon.

What We Like:

  • Prints web pages and emails perfectly thanks to HP AI, which removes extra stuff so you don’t waste paper.
  • It’s a wireless printer, and the Wi-Fi is very reliable. It can even fix connection problems by itself.
  • You can print, scan, and copy right from your phone, computer, or tablet using the easy HP app.
  • Comes with a 3-month trial of HP Instant Ink, which delivers ink to your door before you run out.
  • The printer has a compact design, so it fits well in any room.
  • It’s made with at least 60% recycled plastic and has energy-saving certifications.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Print speeds are a bit slow at 5.5 ppm for color and 7.5 ppm for black.
  • The printer will only work with HP ink cartridges.
  • After the 3-month Instant Ink trial, you’ll have to pay a monthly fee unless you cancel.

The HP DeskJet 2855e is a solid choice for home users who need a reliable and easy-to-use printer for everyday tasks. Its smart features and included ink trial make it a convenient option.

4. Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer [Print

Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer [Print, Copy, Scan], Works with Alexa

Rating: 9.5/10

The Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a handy device for your home or small office. It can print, copy, and scan your documents and photos. You can easily see and control everything on its bright 1.44-inch OLED screen. Setting it up on your phone or computer is a breeze. Plus, it connects to Wi-Fi so you can print from anywhere in your house.

What We Like:

  • The 1.44-inch OLED screen makes it easy to see and use.
  • Setup is simple for both smartphones and computers.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi lets you print wirelessly from any room.
  • You can print directly from your phone or tablet using the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria.
  • Creative printing is fun with the Easy-Photo Print Editor App and Canon Creative Park App.
  • It works with Alexa, so you can use voice commands.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The ink cartridges can be a bit pricey.
  • Some advanced features might be missing for professional users.

The Canon PIXMA TS6420a is a user-friendly printer that makes everyday tasks simple. It’s a great option for anyone needing a reliable all-in-one device.

5. Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer

Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing and Built-in Fax, Black

Rating: 9.2/10

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer is a versatile and user-friendly device designed for home use. It handles printing, copying, scanning, and faxing with ease. Its compact black design fits well in any home office. This printer makes managing your documents simple and efficient.

What We Like:

  • It’s a 4-in-1 printer, meaning it can print, copy, scan, and fax.
  • You can easily print from your phone or tablet.
  • It has an Auto Document Feeder, which saves you time when scanning or copying multiple pages.
  • The printer can automatically print on both sides of the paper.
  • It prints nice documents, photos, and borderless prints.
  • Replacing ink cartridges is simple and hassle-free.
  • It’s ENERGY STAR certified, which means it’s good for the environment and saves electricity.
  • You can connect it to Alexa to get notified when you’re low on ink. Alexa can even reorder ink for you from Amazon if you sign up for smart reorders, so you never run out.
  • It comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The print speed is moderate, so it might not be the fastest for very large print jobs.
  • While it handles home use well, professional or high-volume printing needs might require a more robust machine.

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a solid choice for most home users. It offers a good mix of features for everyday tasks and smart technology to keep you stocked with ink.

Finding Your Perfect Printer for Cricut Projects

So, you’ve got a Cricut machine and you’re ready to take your crafting to the next level! That’s awesome. But wait, you need to print your designs before your Cricut can cut them. This is where a good printer becomes your best friend. Choosing the right printer can make a big difference in how your projects turn out. Let’s dive into what you need to know.

What to Look For in a Printer for Cricut

When you’re picking a printer for your Cricut adventures, think about a few important things.

Key Features to Keep in Mind
  • Print Quality: This is super important. You want your colors to be bright and your lines to be sharp. Look for printers that can print at high resolutions (like 4800 x 1200 dpi or higher). This means more tiny dots of ink, which makes your images look smoother and more detailed.
  • Ink Type: There are two main types: dye-based and pigment-based. Dye-based inks give you really vibrant colors, which is great for photos and colorful designs. Pigment-based inks are more durable and water-resistant, making them better for things that might get handled a lot. Some printers use a combination.
  • Connectivity: How will you connect your printer? Most modern printers offer Wi-Fi, so you can print from your computer, tablet, or phone without wires. USB is also a standard option.
  • Paper Handling: Can the printer handle different types of paper? You’ll want to print on regular paper, sticker paper, cardstock, and maybe even printable vinyl. Check the maximum paper weight and thickness it can handle.
  • Ink Costs: Printer ink can add up! Look for printers that have affordable ink cartridges or offer high-yield options. Some printers have individual ink tanks, which can be more cost-effective than multi-color cartridges when one color runs out.

Important Materials Your Printer Needs to Handle

Your Cricut can cut a variety of materials, and your printer needs to be able to print on them first.

  • Sticker Paper: This is a big one for many Cricut users. You’ll want a printer that prints clearly on glossy or matte sticker paper.
  • Cardstock: For greeting cards, invitations, or boxes, you’ll print on cardstock. Make sure your printer can feed thicker paper without jamming.
  • Transfer Paper: If you’re making custom t-shirts, you’ll print designs onto special transfer paper. Good color accuracy is key here.
  • Printable Vinyl: This is a fun material for decals and labels. Your printer needs to handle its unique texture.

Factors That Affect Print Quality

The quality of your printed designs can be affected by a few things.

  • Printer Resolution (DPI): Higher DPI means more detail.
  • Ink Quality: Good inks produce better colors and sharpness.
  • Paper Type: The paper you use matters! Some papers absorb ink differently, affecting how the colors look.
  • Printer Settings: Using the right print settings in your software (like “best quality” or “photo paper”) makes a huge difference.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use your printer with your Cricut.

  • For Beginners: If you’re just starting out, a reliable all-in-one printer that’s easy to set up and use is a great choice. It should handle everyday printing needs well and work smoothly with your Cricut software.
  • For Advanced Crafters: If you’re making detailed stickers or complex designs, you’ll want a printer with excellent color accuracy and the ability to print on specialty papers.
  • Common Projects:
    • Stickers: Print custom designs for planners, laptops, or water bottles.
    • Party Decorations: Create custom banners, cupcake toppers, and favor tags.
    • Custom Apparel: Print designs for t-shirts, tote bags, and hats.
    • Greeting Cards and Invitations: Design and print your own unique stationery.
    • Labels: Make personalized labels for jars, boxes, or gifts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Cricut Printers

Q: Do I need a special printer for my Cricut?

A: No, you don’t need a “special” printer. Most standard inkjet printers work well. The key is to choose one that prints with good quality and can handle the materials you want to use.

Q: Can I use any printer with my Cricut?

A: Yes, you can use almost any printer that can print from your computer or device. Your Cricut machine reads the design you print.

Q: What is DPI and why is it important for Cricut printing?

A: DPI stands for Dots Per Inch. A higher DPI means the printer puts more ink dots in a small space, creating a sharper and more detailed image. This is important for making your printed designs look crisp and clear.

Q: Should I get a printer with dye-based or pigment-based ink for Cricut projects?

A: For vibrant colors on stickers and graphics, dye-based ink is great. For designs that need to be more durable and water-resistant, like on t-shirts, pigment-based ink is often better. Some printers offer a mix.

Q: How do I make sure my printer prints colors correctly for my Cricut projects?

A: Make sure your printer drivers are up to date. Also, use the highest quality print settings in your design software and on your printer. Calibrating your monitor can also help ensure what you see on screen is close to what prints.

Q: Can I print on sticker paper with any printer?

A: Most inkjet printers can print on sticker paper. You just need to make sure the printer can handle the thickness of the sticker paper you choose.

Q: What is “Print Then Cut” with a Cricut?

A: “Print Then Cut” is a feature where you print a design from your computer, and then your Cricut machine uses its sensor to read the black lines around the design and cut it out precisely.

Q: Are all-in-one printers good for Cricut users?

A: Yes, all-in-one printers (which copy and scan too) are very convenient. They are great for printing your designs and also for scanning images or documents you might want to turn into cut files.

Q: How often should I replace ink cartridges?

A: This depends on how much you print and the type of cartridges. High-yield cartridges last longer. If you print frequently, you’ll go through ink faster.

Q: Can I print on cardstock with my printer?

A: Many printers can print on cardstock, but check the printer’s specifications for the maximum paper weight it supports. Thicker cardstock might require a printer with a more robust paper feed system.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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