Best Printers for Chromebook in 2020 (Wireless and Google Cloud Print)

Chromebooks started humbly, with not much popularity. Taking a look today, they have grown to become adopted by many, witnessing a massive boost in sales along with steady popularity.

However, a stumbling point many users stop at is their incompatibility with USB-only printers, unlike Windows or macOS laptops. In other words, if you own a Chromebook, you need to choose your printer wisely, since it has to be a wireless printer compatible with Chromebook or accessing Google Cloud Print.

Luckily, those Chromebook printers are becoming within easier reach than they were before. We’ve compiled a list of our seven top picks below; take a read to find out our choice for the best printer for Chromebook!

List of The Best Printers For Chromebook:

• Canon TS9120 – Best Wireless Printer for Chromebook
• HP Envy 5055 – Best Cloud Ready Printer for Chromebook
• Epson Expression XP-6000 – Best Photo Printer for Chromebook
• Canon PIXMA TS6220 – Low Volume All-In-One Printer for Chromebook
• Brother Compact HL-L2350DW – Best Laser Printer for Chromebook
• Canon PIXMA TR4520 – Versatile All-in-One Printer
• Samsung Xpress M2020W – Affordable Low-Duty Printer

Comparison Table:

1. Canon TS9120 – Best Wireless Printer for Chromebook

The Canon TS9120 incorporates many features that make the home-printing experience a much easier one than it used to be, including printing, scanning, copying, supporting Bluetooth, and having Wi-Fi capabilities. Furthermore, its sleek design makes it an attractive buy, being available in three colors: red, gray, and gold.

Back to basics, the Canon TS9120 weighs around 14.8 pounds, which is a plus since you can easily move it from one place to another. Moreover, it doesn’t consume much space; it takes up an area of around 12.8×14.7×22.6 inches.

Connectivity-wise, the Bluetooth 4.0 support allows you to print or scan directly from the cloud, through different mobile devices. In addition, the Wi-Fi feature will enable you to take printing a step further by allowing you to print effortlessly no matter your location in the house, making it the ideal wireless printer for Chromebook.

This is notwithstanding the Ethernet connection support and the option of printing photos directly from a given camera’s memory card through an in-built SD/SDHC card slot.

The printing resolution of the Canon TS9120 will not fail you; it has a 4800×1200 dpi for both images and documents alike, accompanied by a 6-color ink system for quality and speed. Speaking of speed, the printer has a print speed of 15 IPM for black and white and 10 IPM for color.

The printer also has an auto-duplex printing option, and it can cater to documents up to 8.5×14 inches. In terms of output, you are provided with the chance to print directly on inkjet printable DVDs and CDs.

Scanning and copying of media up to 8.5×11.7 inches is additionally possible thanks to the printer’s flatbed design, with an optical printing resolution of 2400×4800 dpi. You, therefore, guarantee high-quality prints!

The navigation for you, as a user, cannot be easier through a 5.2-inch touchscreen.

Last but not least, the printer can be run on both macOS and Windows.

Pros:

• Different color design options
• Lightweight
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support
• Auto-duplex printing
• Two input trays
• High-quality prints 

Cons:

• Lacks automatic document feeder
• Considered slow in printing documents

Bottom Line

Ideal for printing photos and images, the Canon TS9120 wireless printer is guaranteed to deliver superb photos, graphics, as well as text, with details almost identical to the original. Also, it serves the basic functions of printing, scanning, and copying, making it the best all-in-one printer for Chromebooks, all wrapped in a compact design.

2. HP Envy 5055 – Best Cloud Ready Printer for Chromebook

Designed mainly for photo-printing, the HP Envy 5055 printer is among the most popular printers for Chromebooks, and it’s worth that credit! Indeed, it’s the best Chromebook printer.

Its printing resolution is 4800×1200 dpi for color, and 1200×1200 for monochrome, which guarantees you a vivid quality outcome in terms of both text and photos.

It’s additionally speedy, producing prints at a print speed of 7 PPM (pages per minute) for color and 10 PPM (pages per minute) for monochrome.

The HP Envy 5055 caters to different media sizes as well, including 8.5×14-inch legal to 3×5-inch paper, along with 8.5×11-inches borderless media. The paper tray consists of a 100- sheet input one, and a 25-sheet output one to handle media. 

Allowing you to save time, effort, and even money, the printer is equipped with an automatic duplexing feature, and its used cartridges can be recycled free of charge. Furthermore, a unique feature called HP instant ink ensures that you never run out of ink, since it tracks your ink usage as you go.

When it also comes to connectivity, the printer has features such as the Bluetooth Smart, dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, USB cable 2.0 support, and an HP Smart app that you can use to connect to your camera where you can scan documents and print photos from the cloud using Google Cloud Print. You can also send print jobs from your mobile device using Apple AirPrint, HP ePrint, and similar applications.

Finally, the user experience is not complicated; the 2.2-inch touchscreen LCD is very straightforward.

Pros:

• Top-notch printing resolution
• Automatic duplex printing
• Accommodates a diverse range of paper sizes
• Recyclable cartridges
• HP Instant Ink feature

Cons:

• Issues with Wi-Fi connectivity on Windows
• Somewhat challenging to set up

Bottom Line

The HP Envy 5055 speaks the multifunctionality language on different levels, allowing you to print, scan, and copy with just one printer, yet with superior printing quality. A major plus is that it’s a cloud-ready printer. However, it’s more adequate for low-volume printing rather than large-volume.

3. Epson Expression XP-6000 – Best Photo Printer for Chromebook

The Epson Expression XP-6000 is a premium all in one printer, known for its versatility and multiple connectivity options. With top performance and invincible photo quality, you cannot go wrong with this one.

Being a compatible printer with Windows and macOS operating systems as well, it serves the essential functions, photo printing, and some more.

It has a print speed of 15.8 ppm (pages per minute) and 11.3ppm (pages per minute) for black and color prints, respectively, and can print on media sizes up to 8×10 inches, but can also print on the standard size of 4×6. 

Equipped with five-color inks, the printer can produce the best vibrant prints your mind can think of. In addition, the cartridges are widely available and very simple to replace.

To make the print quality even better, the Epson Expression XP-6000 also comes with software to enhance the print quality through tools such as auto photo correction, red-eye removal, and more.

To boost productivity while also being able to save time, the Epson Expression XP-6000 offers duplex printing.

Connectivity is not an issue at all with this printer since it can connect wirelessly to iPad, Chromebook, Android, iPhone, and smartphones in general. Furthermore, it features a Wi-Fi direct option, enabling you with network-free printing, along with a USB and memory card slot.

For the users, the 2.7 inch LCD touch screen is easily navigated, and you can give commands right on the spot.

Pros:

• Smooth functioning
• Duplex printing
• Prints on various media sizes
• Fast print speed
• Photo enhancing software

Cons:

• Setup can be lengthy 
• Lacks automatic scan feeder

Bottom Line

The Epson Expression XP-6000 is the perfect match for those seeking to carry out small to moderate levels of printing, copying, or scanning jobs, yet with a multiple range of connectivity options from a variety of different devices, with a hard to beat print resolution.

4. Canon PIXMA TS6220 – Low Volume All-In-One Printer for Chromebook

Speed is the name of the game when it comes to the Canon PIXMA TS6220, mainly due to its ability to print 4×6 images in as fast as a few seconds! Equipped with a five individual ink tank system, this printer is unbeatable.

Being a three-in-one printer, the Canon PIXMA TS6220 can be used to copy, scan, and print. It also includes automatic duplex printing, making the experience a smooth one with minimal routine tasks.

It’s commonly used for photo prints, both in monochrome and color, and accordingly, it has a printing resolution of 4800×1200 dpi and an optical resolution of 1200 dpi. In terms of sizes, it can print documents of sizes up to 8.50×14 inches and photos up to 4×6 inches.

Connectivity-wise, the Canon PIXMA TS6220 incorporates wireless print technology, so you can print by Bluetooth, including mobile devices. This is in addition to USB cable connectivity.

Like the previously mentioned Canon printers, this one is also lightweight (13.7 pounds) and can easily fit wherever you place it (14.6×14.6×26 inches), with minimal setting up required and easy navigation through the 3-inch LCD touchscreen, and is compatible with both Windows and macOS. 

Pros:

• Fast print speed
• Automatic duplex printing
• Lightweight
• Excellent photo print quality
• 200 paper handling through two trays

Cons:

• Lacks Ethernet and Wi-Fi direct connectivity
• Lacks automatic document feeder
• Relatively high running costs

Bottom Line

The Canon PIXMA TS6220 is ideal for day to day home usage without necessarily having to comprise neither quality prints nor print speed. In fact, the output is high-resolution, high-quality photos!

5. Brother Compact HL-L2350DW – Best Laser Printer for Chromebook

A hybrid between economy and functionality is what the Brother Compact HL-L2350DW is all about. It’s the best investment for those who are seeking a one-color laser printer, which is best suited for printing letters, legal documents, envelopes, card stocks, or office documents.

It offers duplex printing, which saves the user money on two levels: paper and printing. In addition, it incorporates an Amazon Dash Replenishment feature to guarantee that you never run out of ink. 

To further help you with ink cartridge management, it comes with a toner saver mode that helps you to save on frequent replacement of cartridges.

Not just that, the paper trays save time since they have a capacity of 250-sheets, so you don’t need to worry about continuously having to re-fill the input tray.

Despite being reasonably priced, it doesn’t come at the expense of quality prints. The prints are high-quality, and texts are razor sharp at a print speed of up to 32 ppm (pages per minute) and a volume of 2,000 pages per month.

The printer also supports several types of connectivity options, including Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Google Chrome Print, and more. It can be connected wirelessly to laptops, smartphones, tablets, desktop devices, or by USB.

As for space occupation, the printer weighs around 15.9 pounds and occupies a space of 7.9x14x16.9 inches.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Duplex printing
• Good overall print quality
• Amazon Dash replenishment feature

Cons:

• Lacks an Ethernet port
• Higher running costs than inkjet printers
• Prints in only one color

Bottom Line

If we were to describe the Brother Compact HL-L2350DW in one word, it would be efficient. Ideal for those who are keen on printing documents in monochrome, this printer is the best laser printer for Chromebook with value for money due to its low cost yet very solid performance.

6. Canon PIXMA TR4520 – Versatile All-in-One Printer

If you’re looking for a printer that can serve home and business needs alike, the Canon PIXMA TR4520 should be on the list. It’s a 4-in-1 compact printer that caters to most essential functions, including copying, printing, and scanning, with a unique document faxing feature!

Equipped with an automatic document feeder, the Canon PIXMA TR4520 allows you to scan or copy multiple sheets at once without having to exert any effort manually. You can even copy your ID, or any card-sized documents for that matter, on both sides.

Moving on to faxing documents, this is a feature that sets the Canon PIXMA TR4520 apart, since it’s not an option that many printers offer. You can fax your documents, whether one or two-sided, in a simple manner.  

In terms of size, the printer doesn’t require a lot of space, with dimensions of 8.8.×16.9×22 and weighing around 13 pounds, which is again ideal for both homes and offices. The compact size, in particular, when combined with the features, give this printer a competitive edge when compared to bulkier options in the market.

As for connectivity, the options are varied, including printing from smartphones, tablets, through Wi-Fi connection, or automated web services and applications through an IFTTT (If This Then That) support, which is time-saving. 

Finally, it’s a compatible printer with both Windows and macOS and has a smooth user navigation journey with its 2.1-inch display screen.

Pros:

• Compact size
• Diverse connectivity options
• Document faxing
• Automatic document feeder

Cons:

• Only allows for dual-band connectivity
• Unseparated color cartridges
• High running costs
• Slow print speed

Bottom Line

The Canon PIXMA TR4520 makes an excellent choice for value, with an all-round set of features convenient for photos and documents alike. If you’re looking for a compact printer that serves the needs of a low-volume office, a dorm room, or a home, you’ll be good to go with this printer.

7. Samsung Xpress M2020W – Affordable Low-Duty Printer for Chromebook

Another monochrome laser printer is the Samsung Xpress M2020W, a top-notch laser printer that works on almost all operating systems, including macOS, Linux, and Windows.

Known for its versatility, the printer can handle 150 sheets, which is just right for light-duty tasks. 

With a fast print speed and a reputation of delivering remarkable photo steal, this printer is yet again another bang for your buck.

When it comes to connectivity, the printer can be connected either by a USB cable or wirelessly with Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you can install the Mobile Print application or Google Cloud Print, and just like that, your print is only one click away.

Space-wise, it occupies 9x8x13.1×14.6 inches of space and comes in an exquisite design that stands out from the competition in the market.

Pros:

• Compact design
• Lightweight
• Fast print speed
• Sufficient connectivity options

Cons:

• Lacks an Ethernet port
• Lacks duplex printing
• Relatively high running costs

Bottom Line

If you’re seeking a monochrome laser printer but for light-duty purposes, the Samsung Xpress M2020W is the go-to due to its versatility. However, if there is a slight possibility that you’ll require it for larger-sized printing, you will undoubtedly suffer from the high running costs.

What To Look For When Buying a Printer For Chromebook?

1. Connectivity Options

Printer connectivity options, as we have seen, vary from one printer to another. The first essential point to consider is to make sure it’s a compatible printer with Chromebooks. They have to be cloud-ready and be able to connect to Wi-Fi.

2. Inkjet vs. Laser Printers

Laser printers are more suitable for text-based documents; their main unique selling point is usually high-quality text output at rapid print speeds. When it also comes to photos, they offer lower quality than inkjet printers.

Inkjet printers are the go-to for photos and media printing, which is why inkjet printers compete based on the quality and resolution of the printing result and outcome.

3. Running Costs

While some printers may be affordable upon purchase, some printers have excessively high running costs, due to their ink cartridges or toners being on the more expensive side.

Therefore, you need to do your research on the costs associated with the chosen printer. Take into consideration the frequency of replacing the cartridges as well as the yield of each cartridge.

4. Media Handling

Media handling refers to the different media sizes that the printer can accommodate for. Standard printers can print 8.5×11-inch paper, but some people require other different sizes such as envelopes, card stocks, legal-sized, tabloids, or more.

If you are likely to require more than the standard sizing, then you need to consider the media handling functionality.

5. Print Speed and Resolution

If you intend to use the printer for high-volume printing, you need to ensure that your printer is speedy. This is determined by the PPM (pages per minute) or IPM (impressions per minute) metrics. The higher, the quicker.

However, if your top concern is the resolution of the printing, then you need to consider the DPI (dots per inch), which gives you an indication of how clear the prints will be. Again, the higher the number, the better the resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are All Printers Compatible With Chromebooks?

No, the majority of printers were produced to be compatible with Windows and macOS. However, since Chromebooks haven’t been in the scene for long, not all printers are yet fully compatible with Chromebooks. They have to be cloud-ready.

Does Google Cloud Print Work With Any Printer?

If you own a cloud-ready printer, it will work with Google Cloud Print. You can check whether your printer is Google Cloud Print and cloud-ready or not here by searching for your printer manufacturer and model.

However, generally, even if you don’t have a cloud-ready printer, but your printer can connect to Wi-Fi, you will be able to set it up with Google Cloud Print. Otherwise, you will not be able to print from your Chromebook.

Which Chromebooks Are Compatible With Printing? 

Generally, Samsung, Asus, Toshiba, HP, and Dell are the brands of Chromebooks that are compatible with cloud-ready printers.

On the brand side, Canon, Epson, Samsung, and Brother, and HP all have select models that are compatible printers with Chromebooks and are considered Chromebook printers that enable you to print from your Chromebook right away. 

Can Chromebooks Print To a Wireless Printer?

Yes, you can print from your Chromebook to the majority of printers that connect to Wi-Fi or a wired network in general. You can follow the steps here to set up your printer by Wi-Fi on your Chromebook. Just make sure that both your printer and your Chromebook are connected to the same network.

Can You Print From a Chromebook Via USB?

Yes, you can use a USB cable to connect your printer to your Chromebook. In this case, you won’t be needing to connect to Wi-Fi since the USB cable replaced that step. However, the steps, in this case, are different. They appear to you on-screen once you connect the printer to the Chromebook.

Final Verdict

If we were to choose the top three options, we would narrow them down to the Epson Expression XP-6000, the HP Envy 5055, and the Brother HL-L2350.

The best printer for Chromebook overall would be the HP Envy 5055, providing all the necessary essential functions of a printer, along with superior quality for photos and printing in general.

The most budget-friendly option is the Brother HL-L2350. It’s the best value for money, but you’ll have to give up printing in color.

Lastly, the best option for photo printing is the Epson Expression XP-6000. You will not find a better option than this to go for!