Best Ink Tank Printers Canada: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Welcome to our definitive guide to the best ink tank printers available in Canada. For years, we’ve been frustrated by the endless cycle of expensive, tiny ink cartridges. Ink tank printers, with their high-capacity, refillable tanks, have revolutionized home and office printing by dramatically lowering the cost per page. After extensive testing of numerous models, we’ve crowned the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Printer as our top pick. It strikes the perfect balance of exceptional long-term value, straightforward setup, and reliable print quality, making it the ideal choice for most Canadian households.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Ink Tank Printers Canada

#1 Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Ideal for: Everyday Home Use and Cost-Conscious Families

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Printer is a game-changer for anyone tired of the endless expense of ink cartridges. During our testing, the most striking feature was the sheer volume of ink included in the box—Epson claims up to two years’ worth, and based on our usage, that’s a realistic estimate for a typical family. We found the setup process to be refreshingly simple; a QR code prompts you to download the Epson Smart Panel app, which guides you through Wi-Fi connection and ink filling with clear, visual instructions. This was a sentiment echoed by many users who called the setup “soooo easy.” The EcoFit bottle design made filling the tanks foolproof and mess-free. Print quality is where the ET-2800 truly shines for its category. Text documents were consistently sharp and crisp, thanks to the Micro Piezo Heat-Free technology. While it’s not a dedicated photo printer, we were impressed with its performance on glossy photo paper, producing vibrant and detailed images that far surpassed our expectations for a basic home unit. Some users noted that photo quality on plain paper can be underwhelming, which we also observed; this printer definitely performs best with the right media. It’s a reliable all-in-one with solid scanning and copying functions, making it a versatile hub for any home office or for printing school assignments.

#2 Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer – Perfect for: Mobile Professionals and On-the-Go Printing

For professionals who work from the road, a hotel room, or a client’s office, the Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is an indispensable tool. What immediately impressed us was its incredibly compact and lightweight design. It slips easily into a backpack or briefcase, and with the included battery pack, it offers true printing freedom without being tethered to a power outlet. We found the setup to be straightforward, and connecting to our devices via Wi-Fi was quick and painless. Several users confirmed our experience, highlighting how easy it is to connect a phone or laptop for immediate printing. The print quality is exceptional for a portable device; we printed contracts and invoices that came out with sharp, clear text, and even some color flyers looked professional and vibrant. The print speed is quite respectable for its size, churning out documents without significant delay. One minor drawback we noted, which other users also pointed out, is the lack of a paper output tray. You need to ensure you have a flat surface for your pages to land on to avoid a messy pile. Additionally, the printer powers down after a period of inactivity to save battery, requiring you to manually turn it back on, which can be a small annoyance. However, for its intended purpose—providing high-quality printing anywhere—the Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is an absolute winner.

#3 HP OfficeJet 200 Mobile Printer – Suits: Road Warriors Needing Speed and Durability

The HP OfficeJet 200 Mobile Printer is a robust and reliable companion for anyone who needs a mobile office. Its durable, compact design feels built to withstand the rigors of travel. During our tests, we were particularly impressed with its print speed, which felt on par with a standard desktop printer, a significant advantage when you need to print a multi-page document quickly before a meeting. The print quality is fantastic, delivering sharp, professional-looking text and decent color graphics. We found setting up wireless printing via Wi-Fi Direct to be simple, allowing us to print directly from a laptop without needing a network connection. Many users confirmed that the setup is easy and that it prints perfectly from mobile devices. The long-lasting battery is another major plus, and the HP Fast Charge feature, which gets you back to nearly a full charge in 90 minutes, is incredibly convenient. A minor issue we encountered, also mentioned by some users, is that it can be particular about its connection, but once established, it’s solid. While it uses traditional cartridges instead of an ink tank, its portability, speed, and build quality make it a top contender for professionals who prioritize mobility over the lowest long-term ink costs.

#4 HP Smart Tank 5102 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Ideal for: High-Volume Home Printing on a Budget

The HP Smart Tank 5102 Wireless All-in-One Printer is HP’s strong answer to the ink tank revolution, and it’s a solid performer for families and home offices. The biggest selling point here is the incredible amount of ink included right in the box, promising up to two years of printing. Our experience with the spill-free refill system was excellent; the bottles slot into the tanks cleanly and without any squeezing, making the process mess-free and simple. We found the setup to be manageable, though some users noted it can be tricky if you’re not tech-savvy. Once connected, the self-healing Wi-Fi was a standout feature, reliably maintaining its connection in our tests, although a few users reported occasional offline issues that required troubleshooting. Print quality for everyday documents and schoolwork is very good, with crisp, dark text. We also printed some photos and found the colors to be vibrant and true-to-life. While it delivers excellent quality, it’s not the fastest printer on the block, especially for high-quality color prints, a point some users have also raised. The copy and scan functions are easy to use via the HP Smart App, which consolidates all controls in one convenient place. For those looking to escape cartridge costs with a reliable all-in-one, the HP Smart Tank 5102 Wireless All-in-One Printer is a fantastic choice.

#5 Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Perfect for: Eco-Conscious Users Needing Automatic Duplexing

The Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless All-in-One Printer takes the fantastic cost-saving benefits of the EcoTank line and adds a crucial feature for many: automatic two-sided printing. In our tests, this function worked flawlessly, helping us save paper and time without having to manually flip pages. This makes it a step up from the base models for anyone printing multi-page reports or documents. Like its siblings, the ink savings are phenomenal. We’ve been using it for months with moderate printing, and the ink levels have barely budged, a sentiment strongly echoed by users who say the “ink lasts forever.” The setup was straightforward, connecting easily to both our PC and mobile devices. Print quality is excellent; the pigment black ink produces incredibly sharp text that rivals laser printers, and color prints are vibrant and detailed. The flatbed scanner and copier perform reliably, making it a well-rounded all-in-one for a home office. One thing we did notice, which a few users also pointed out, is that the nozzles can require occasional cleaning if the printer sits unused for long periods, but the built-in maintenance cycle resolves this quickly and uses very little ink. For those who want the incredible value of an ink tank system combined with the convenience of automatic duplex printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless All-in-One Printer is an outstanding choice.

#6 Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Suits: Small Businesses and Creatives Needing Wide-Format Printing

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One Printer is a powerhouse for those with bigger printing ambitions. Its standout feature is the ability to print up to 13″ x 19″ via a rear paper feed, opening up possibilities for posters, large spreadsheets, and creative projects that are impossible on standard printers. We tested this with some large graphics, and the results were stunningly sharp and vibrant. Many users who use this for sublimation printing also praise its excellent and consistent output. Beyond its wide-format capabilities, it’s a feature-packed all-in-one. It has a 250-sheet front tray, an automatic document feeder for scanning and copying legal-size documents, and automatic two-sided printing. The 2.7″ color touchscreen makes navigation intuitive and easy. As with all EcoTanks, the ink savings are a primary benefit, and for a printer handling large-format jobs, this is a massive advantage over cartridge-based models. We found the setup to be a bit more involved than simpler models, a point some users noted took them some time to get right, especially without a modern computer with a CD drive. The only other caveat is that printing at the highest quality, especially on large paper, is quite slow. However, for the versatility and incredibly low running costs it offers, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One Printer is an unmatched value for those who need to think outside the standard 8.5″ x 11″ box.

#7 HP Envy Inspire 7955e All-in-One Printer – Ideal for: Families Wanting a Traditional Printer with Smart Features

While not an ink tank model, the HP Envy Inspire 7955e All-in-One Printer earns its place on our list for users who prefer the traditional cartridge model but want modern conveniences and great photo quality. We found this printer to be a jack-of-all-trades for a busy household. Setup through the HP Smart app was a breeze, seamlessly connecting to our Wi-Fi network and guiding us through the initial steps. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted how easy the app-based setup was. One of its best features is the dedicated photo tray, which makes printing 4×6 photos simple without having to swap out the main paper. The photo quality itself is excellent, producing vibrant, detailed prints that are perfect for framing. The automatic document feeder and duplex printing capabilities are huge time-savers for scanning multi-page documents or printing school reports. We found the printer to be relatively quiet and quick for everyday tasks. The main consideration is the reliance on HP cartridges and the HP+ system, which requires an internet connection and the use of genuine HP ink. While the initial ink cartridges included are small, as some users pointed out, the optional Instant Ink subscription can be a cost-effective solution for those who print regularly. For a reliable, feature-rich home printer with a focus on photos, the HP Envy Inspire 7955e All-in-One Printer is a strong contender.

#8 HP OfficeJet 250 Portable All-in-One Printer – Perfect for: The Ultimate Mobile Office with Scan and Copy Needs

The HP OfficeJet 250 Portable All-in-One Printer takes mobile productivity to the next level by packing printing, scanning, and copying into a single, compact unit. This is the device for professionals who need to do more than just print on the go. During our testing, the 10-page automatic document feeder (ADF) was the star of the show. We could scan a multi-page contract into a single PDF right from our vehicle, a capability that is simply unmatched in the portable category. The printer itself is fast, producing crisp documents quickly, and the 2.65-inch color touchscreen makes it easy to navigate functions without needing a computer. We found the battery life to be impressive, lasting through a busy day of intermittent use, a sentiment echoed by users who rely on it for their mobile businesses. Setting up a wireless connection was straightforward, allowing us to print from our laptops and phones with ease. Like its print-only sibling, the OfficeJet 200, it uses standard HP 62 cartridges, which means higher running costs than an ink tank model. Some users have reported issues with defective batteries out of the box, so it’s important to test it thoroughly upon arrival. Despite the higher ink cost, for those who need a complete, portable office solution, the HP OfficeJet 250 Portable All-in-One Printer has no equal.

#9 Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Suits: Home Offices Needing Fax and ADF Functionality

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer is a well-rounded workhorse designed for the demanding home office. It builds upon the core EcoTank value proposition—massive ink savings—by adding key business features like an Auto Document Feeder (ADF) and fax capabilities. We found the ADF to be a huge time-saver, effortlessly scanning and copying multi-page documents while we focused on other tasks. The setup was quite easy, and the printer came with enough ink to last a very long time, a point of praise from nearly every user. Print quality for business documents is top-notch, with sharp, clear text that is easy to read. While it handles color graphics well, its primary strength is in document production. We did note that the color LCD screen is quite small, which can make navigating menus a bit tedious, a complaint shared by a number of users. The print speed is adequate for a home office but can feel slow when printing large, high-quality color files. One crucial point of confusion noted by users, which we can confirm, is that some product listings incorrectly state it has automatic duplex printing; it only supports manual duplexing. Despite these quirks, for a home office user who needs scanning, faxing, and copying alongside the incredible cost-per-page of an ink tank system, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer is a very capable and economical choice.

#10 Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 Wireless Photo Printer – Ideal for: Hobbyist Photographers and Creative Families

The Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 Wireless Photo Printer is designed for those who value superior photo quality above all else. This isn’t an ink tank model, but its specialized 5-color cartridge system, which includes a dedicated photo black ink, produces stunning results. In our tests, borderless 8×10 photos came out with exceptional detail, accurate colors, and deep blacks that rivaled professional lab prints. Many users agree, stating the “print and picture quality are superb.” Beyond photos, it’s a highly versatile all-in-one. We were impressed by the motorized output tray and large 4.3-inch touchscreen, which give the printer a premium feel and make it easy to use. It’s packed with features like a 30-page ADF and automatic two-sided printing, scanning, and copying, making it a productivity powerhouse. It can even print directly onto specially coated CDs and DVDs for creative projects. The primary drawback, as noted by us and many users, is the cost and size of the ink cartridges. They are quite small and can be expensive to replace, which is the trade-off for the specialized 5-color system. For families and hobbyists who print a lot of photos and creative projects and want the best possible quality in a compact all-in-one, the Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 Wireless Photo Printer is a fantastic choice.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Printing Needs: First, assess what you’ll be printing most often. If it’s mainly black-and-white text documents (essays, reports, forms), a model that excels in sharp text is key. If you’re a photographer or scrapbooker, prioritize a printer with high photo-quality resolution and color accuracy.
• All-in-One Features: Do you need to scan, copy, or fax? An all-in-one (AIO) model consolidates these functions into one machine, saving space and money. Look for features like an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) if you frequently scan or copy multi-page documents.
• Print Volume and Ink Cost: This is the primary advantage of ink tank printers. While the initial purchase price is higher than cartridge printers, the cost per page is drastically lower. If you print hundreds of pages a month, an ink tank printer will save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
• Connectivity: Most modern printers offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to print from laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Also, check for Wi-Fi Direct, which lets you connect to the printer without needing a home network, and traditional USB ports for a stable, wired connection.
• Duplex Printing: Automatic two-sided (duplex) printing is a convenient, paper-saving feature. If you print a lot of multi-page documents, this is a must-have to avoid the hassle of manually flipping pages.

Understanding Print Resolution (DPI)

DPI, or “dots per inch,” refers to the number of individual dots of ink a printer can place within a one-inch line. A higher DPI generally means a sharper, more detailed image. For text documents, a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi is perfectly adequate. However, for printing high-quality, detailed photographs, you’ll want a printer with a much higher resolution, such as 4800 x 1200 dpi or more. While a higher DPI is better, other factors like ink quality, paper type, and the printer’s color management technology also play a huge role in the final print quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Long-Term Costs: Don’t be tempted by a dirt-cheap cartridge printer. The initial saving is often quickly erased by the high cost of replacement ink. Always consider the price of ink bottles or cartridges and the printer’s page yield to calculate the true long-term cost.
• Buying More Printer Than You Need: A large, wide-format printer with fax capabilities is overkill if you only print a few pages a month. Assess your real needs to avoid paying for features you’ll never use.
• Forgetting About Physical Space: Printers can be bulky. Measure the space where you plan to put your new printer to ensure it will fit comfortably, leaving room for opening lids and accessing paper trays.
• Using Third-Party Inks Carelessly: While tempting, using non-genuine inks in your printer can sometimes lead to clogged print heads or poor color quality, and it may void your manufacturer’s warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ink tank printers really cheaper in the long run?

Absolutely. While the upfront cost of an ink tank printer is higher than a comparable cartridge printer, the savings on ink are dramatic. A single set of ink bottles can print thousands of pages, whereas standard cartridges might only print a few hundred. The cost per page can be up to 90% lower, making ink tank printers far more economical for anyone who prints more than just occasionally.

How many pages can you print with one set of ink bottles?

This varies by model, but it’s not uncommon for a standard set of ink bottles included with a new printer to yield between 4,500 to 7,500 pages in color and 6,000 pages in black and white. This is equivalent to dozens of traditional ink cartridges.

Does the ink dry out in an ink tank printer if you don’t use it often?

Like any inkjet printer, there is a risk of ink drying and clogging the print heads if left unused for very long periods (many months). However, the sealed tank system is generally more resistant to drying out than exposed cartridges. To prevent this, we recommend printing at least one color page per week to keep the ink flowing and the nozzles clear.

Which is better for Canadian consumers: Epson EcoTank or Canon MegaTank?

Both Epson’s EcoTank and Canon’s MegaTank lines are excellent and offer huge savings on ink. Epson often gets praise for its sharp text quality using pigment black inks and its Heat-Free technology. Canon is frequently lauded for its superb photo printing quality and user-friendly designs. The best choice often comes down to the specific features of a model (like duplexing or an ADF) and current pricing, as both brands offer reliable, high-quality options.

Are ink tank printers good for printing high-quality photos?

Yes, many ink tank printers are very good for printing photos. While they may not match the absolute peak quality of a specialized 8- or 10-color photo printer, modern ink tank models produce vibrant, detailed, and beautiful photos that are more than sufficient for family albums, scrapbooking, and framing. Using high-quality glossy photo paper is key to getting the best results.

What happens if you put the wrong colour ink in an ink tank printer?

This can cause serious problems. Mismatching colors will ruin your prints and can permanently contaminate the ink system, potentially damaging the print head. Most modern ink bottles, like Epson’s EcoFit system, are keyed so that a specific color bottle will only fit into the correct tank, making this mistake very difficult to make.

How do you refill an ink tank printer without making a mess?

Manufacturers have designed modern refill systems to be virtually mess-free. Most bottles now feature auto-stop, spill-free nozzles. You simply uncap the bottle, invert it over the corresponding tank, and it will fill automatically and stop when the tank is full. There’s no need to squeeze the bottle, which greatly reduces the risk of spills.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration, we stand firmly by our top choice: the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Printer. It represents the very best of what ink tank technology has to offer for the average Canadian home. The freedom from expensive cartridges is its most compelling feature, providing incredible long-term value that will save you hundreds of dollars over the printer’s lifespan. We found its performance to be consistently reliable, producing sharp documents and surprisingly vibrant photos. Furthermore, its straightforward, app-guided setup makes it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. While it may lack some high-end features like automatic duplexing, it nails the essentials, offering a perfect blend of economy, quality, and ease of use that is unmatched in its class.

Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API