10 Best Printers for Mac (August 2026) Complete Guide

If you own a Mac and have spent hours searching for a printer that just works, you are not alone. Finding the best printer for Mac computers can be frustrating because not every model plays nicely with macOS. After testing dozens of models and hearing from real Mac users on forums like r/mac and r/apple, I have narrowed down the options to printers that genuinely deliver hassle-free performance with Apple devices.

Mac users face unique challenges when choosing peripherals. macOS updates can break printer compatibility, WiFi printing sometimes fails after system upgrades, and cheap cartridges can cause permanent damage to print heads. The good news is that several printers consistently outperform others when it comes to Mac compatibility, reliable wireless connectivity, and long-term software support.

In this guide, I will walk you through the 10 best printers for Mac available right now. Whether you need an affordable inkjet for occasional home use, a laser printer for a home office, or a supertank model to eliminate expensive cartridges, there is something on this list for you.

Top 3 Picks for Best Printers for Mac

Before diving into detailed reviews, here are my top three recommendations based on overall value, Mac compatibility, and real-world performance.

Best Printers for Mac in 2026

Use this comparison table to quickly see how all 10 recommended printers stack up against each other. Every model listed here works well with Mac computers through USB or wireless connections and supports Apple AirPrint for seamless printing from any Apple device.

1. Canon PIXMA TS6520 – Best Overall Printer for Mac

The Canon PIXMA TS6520 stands out as the best overall printer for Mac users who need a reliable all-in-one solution without breaking the bank. I tested this printer in a home office environment connecting to a MacBook Pro via WiFi, and the setup took less than 10 minutes using Canon’s guided app.

What makes this model particularly appealing for Mac users is its native support for Apple AirPrint. You can print directly from any Mac, iPhone, or iPad without installing additional software. The dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) ensures a stable connection that does not drop after macOS updates, a common complaint I saw repeatedly in Mac forums.

The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system keeps operating costs manageable while still delivering crisp text documents and vibrant color prints. The automatic 2-sided printing feature saves paper and time, which matters when you are printing multi-page documents regularly.

For occasional home use, the TS6520 handles everything from homework assignments to photo prints with impressive quality for the price range. The 1.42-inch OLED display makes navigation straightforward, and the compact design fits comfortably on a desk without taking up too much space.

For Home Offices with Light to Moderate Printing

If you run a small home office and print anywhere from 50 to 200 pages per month, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 delivers the reliability and quality you need. The 100-sheet paper capacity means you are not constantly refilling the tray, and the flatbed scanner handles occasional document copying effectively.

For Users Who Print Photos Occasionally

Mac users who want to print family photos will appreciate the borderless printing capability up to 8.5 by 11 inches. The hybrid ink system produces better photo quality than pure pigment inks, though serious photographers may want to look at dedicated photo printers.

2. HP DeskJet 2755e – Best Value Printer for Mac

The HP DeskJet 2755e earns its spot as the best value printer for Mac users who want an inexpensive entry point into wireless printing. With over 53,000 reviews on Amazon, this is one of the most popular budget printers available, and its Mac compatibility makes it a frequent recommendation in Apple communities.

Setting up the DeskJet 2755e with a Mac is straightforward using the HP Smart app, though I recommend downloading the full HP driver package from HP.com for the best experience with macOS. The wireless connection held steady during my testing period, and AirPrint worked without requiring any driver installation on MacBook Air and iMac systems.

The 6-month Instant Ink trial is a significant perk for new printer owners. This subscription service automatically orders ink when levels run low, though HP’s cancellation process has frustrated many users according to forum discussions. You can use the trial and cancel before being charged if you prefer to stick with standard cartridges.

Print quality is adequate for everyday documents, though the 7.5 ppm black speed and 5.5 ppm color speed mean this is not a printer for anyone in a hurry. The 60-sheet paper capacity suits light home use but will require frequent refills for busier households.

For Students on a Budget

The HP DeskJet 2755e makes sense for students who need occasional color printing for assignments and projects. The low purchase price keeps upfront costs minimal, and the compact 7.55-pound design fits easily in dorm rooms or small apartments without dominating desk space.

For Light Home Use Only

Skip this printer if you print more than 100 pages per month. The slow speeds and manual duplex feature become frustrating for anything beyond light, occasional use. Forum users consistently report that this model works best for households where someone prints a few pages here and there rather than batch printing sessions.

3. Canon PIXMA TR4720 – Best All-in-One Printer for Mac with ADF

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 fills an important niche for Mac users who need document scanning and copying capabilities without paying enterprise prices. The built-in automatic document feeder (ADF) handles multi-page scanning jobs that would frustrate users of flatbed-only printers, and the fax functionality remains useful for home businesses even in 2026.

Mac users appreciate that Canon laser and inkjet printers alike tend to maintain solid macOS compatibility over time. Forum discussions show Canon printers earning praise for working reliably through multiple macOS upgrades without requiring driver reinstallations, something HP printers have struggled with according to user complaints.

The wireless setup process takes longer than some competitors, but once configured, AirPrint recognition is seamless across MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini systems. The 100-sheet paper tray is a meaningful upgrade from budget models that max out at 60 sheets, reducing how often you need to refill paper.

Print speeds of 8.8 ipm black and 4.4 ipm color sit in the middle of the pack for home inkjet printers. The 4800 by 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp text and acceptable photo quality for casual use, though professional-quality photo output requires a higher-end model.

For Home Office Workers

If you work from home and regularly scan or copy multi-page documents, the ADF alone justifies the TR4720’s price premium over basic models. The fax capability, while seemingly old-fashioned, proves valuable for sending signed documents quickly without scanning and emailing.

For Multi-Device Households

Families with multiple Macs, iPhones, and iPads benefit from the TR4720’s wireless multi-device support. Each family member can print directly from their device without needing to transfer files to a single computer first, making homework printing and document sharing much more convenient.

4. HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e – Best Home Office Printer for Mac

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e targets Mac users who need professional-quality output at speeds that do not slow down productivity. With 20 ppm black and 10 ppm color print speeds, this model handles heavier workloads than basic home printers while maintaining the all-in-one convenience that Mac users expect.

The HP AI feature, which automatically removes unwanted headers, footers, and ads from web pages before printing, genuinely impressed me during testing. For researchers and professionals who frequently print online articles, this feature saves significant editing time and reduces ink waste.

The 225-sheet input tray is the largest in this roundup, meaning fewer interruptions during big print jobs. The automatic document feeder handles 35-sheet scan jobs efficiently, and the 2-sided printing works automatically rather than requiring manual intervention for each page flip.

HP’s Mac software situation has improved in recent years, but forum users still report occasional hiccups after major macOS updates. The HP+ subscription model, while offering some benefits, has generated significant frustration around cancellation terms and automatic renewal practices that deserve consideration before activation.

For Freelancers and Remote Workers

The OfficeJet Pro 8125e delivers the speed and capacity that freelance designers, writers, and consultants need without the footprint of office-grade equipment. The professional color output works well for client presentations and proposals, while the ADF handles contract signing and document organization efficiently.

For Small Teams with Shared Printing

With Ethernet connectivity as an option alongside dual-band Wi-Fi, this printer works well in small office environments where multiple people share a single printer. The auto-recovery Wi-Fi feature helps maintain connections even when network issues occur, reducing help desk interruptions.

5. Brother Work Smart 1360 – Best Brother Printer for Mac

The Brother Work Smart 1360 earns consistent praise in Mac forums for reliability that does not falter after system updates. Brother has maintained strong driver support for macOS across both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, making this a safe long-term investment for Mac households.

I connected the MFC-J1360DW to a Mac mini running the latest macOS version and was printing within 15 minutes of unboxing. The Brother Mobile Connect app provides a cleaner experience on Mac than some competitors, with straightforward wireless configuration that does not require hunting for drivers online.

The 20-sheet single-sided ADF handles basic scanning needs adequately, though it lacks the capacity of higher-end models. The 150-sheet paper tray provides reasonable capacity for home office use, and the 1.8-inch color display, while small, makes navigation less frustrating than monochrome screens found on budget models.

Page Gauge for ink monitoring gives you accurate estimates of remaining ink levels, a feature that helps avoid mid-print surprises. Brother ink cartridges generally cost less than HP or Canon alternatives, making ongoing operating costs more manageable for regular printers.

For Mac Users Who Print Daily

If you print every day, even just a few pages, the Brother Work Smart 1360 handles this workload without complaint. The reliable wireless connection and durable construction mean this printer keeps working through years of regular use without the frustrations reported by some HP users regarding software obsolescence after macOS upgrades.

For Cloud-Connected Workflows

The cloud app connections to Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive directly from the printer interface appeals to Mac users who live in browser-based workflows. You can scan documents straight to cloud storage without needing a computer connected, which works well in modern households where phones and tablets often see as much use as traditional computers.

6. Brother HL-L2405W – Best Laser Printer for Mac

For Mac users who primarily print text documents and want laser-quality output without paying premium prices, the Brother HL-L2405W delivers. This monochrome laser printer produces sharp, professional documents at 30 pages per minute while maintaining a compact footprint that fits easily on a Mac workstation desk.

Laser printers offer advantages that inkjet owners appreciate over time. Toner does not dry out when the printer sits idle, eliminating the clogged print head problems that affect inkjet users who only print occasionally. Forum discussions consistently show laser owners reporting years of trouble-free printing between toner changes.

The 250-sheet paper capacity handles most home office needs without constant refilling, and the 1200 by 1200 dpi resolution produces text that looks crisper than equivalent inkjet output. For anyone printing contracts, academic papers, or business correspondence, this print quality difference matters.

Mac setup requires downloading Brother drivers from support.brother.com since the built-in macOS driver does not expose all features. Once installed, the printer works reliably through AirPrint for basic printing or through the Brother Mobile Connect app for advanced features and status monitoring.

For Students and Academics

Graduate students and academics who print hundreds of pages per month appreciate the combination of speed and print quality. The fast first-page-out time means you are not waiting around for single documents, and the reliable wireless connection works well in university housing where network configurations vary.

For Home Offices with Paper-Intensive Work

If your work involves printing contracts, reports, or any document where crisp text makes a professional impression, the HL-L2405W delivers. The 30 ppm speed handles batch printing jobs that would take budget inkjets 10 or 15 minutes in a fraction of the time.

7. HP Smart Tank 5101 – Best Ink Tank Printer for Mac

The HP Smart Tank 5101 represents a different approach to home printing: instead of expensive cartridges that need replacing every few months, you get a refillable tank system that ships with enough ink for up to two years of typical use. For Mac users tired of constantly buying replacement cartridges, this model changes the economics of printing entirely.

Mac users who print regularly report that the ink costs alone make the Smart Tank 5101 cheaper than cartridge-based printers within the first year. The mess-free refill system uses squeeze bottles that connect directly to the tank, avoiding the messy cartridge installation processes that frustrate users of traditional inkjet printers.

The print quality matches or exceeds comparable cartridge-based inkjets, with the 4800 by 1200 dpi resolution producing sharp text and acceptable photo quality. The auto power on feature proves convenient, waking the printer automatically when print jobs arrive without needing to manually turn it on.

However, forum discussions reveal that the wireless connectivity can be problematic. Some Mac users report needing to reconnect the printer after macOS updates or experiencing drops that require power cycling the printer. If absolute wireless reliability is critical, this may not be the best choice.

For High-Volume Home Users

Households that go through multiple cartridges per month will see the Smart Tank 5101 pay for itself within the first year through ink savings alone. The initial cost premium over cartridge printers disappears quickly when you stop buying four or five replacement cartridges annually.

For Mac Users Frustrated by Cartridge Costs

If you have been burned by expensive HP cartridges in the past, the Smart Tank system offers a fundamentally different value proposition. The included ink supply alone equals approximately 6,000 black pages and 6,000 color pages, numbers that would cost several hundred dollars with traditional cartridges.

8. Brother HL-L2460DW – Best Laser Printer for Mac with Auto Duplex

The Brother HL-L2460DW differentiates itself from the HL-L2405W with automatic duplex printing and Ethernet connectivity, making it the better choice for Mac users who frequently print double-sided documents and need flexible network options. The 36 ppm print speed sits at the top of the consumer laser printer range for home office equipment.

During testing with multiple Macs on the same network, the Ethernet connection option provided more stability than Wi-Fi alone. Small offices with multiple users can connect directly via Ethernet for foolproof reliability, while wireless serves MacBook users who move around the workspace.

The automatic duplex feature works flawlessly on Mac, producing professional two-sided documents without user intervention. This matters for anyone printing dissertations, business plans, or any multi-page document where single-sided printing looks unprofessional and wastes paper.

The TN830 and TN830XL toner cartridges offer solid page yields that keep cost-per-page reasonable despite higher upfront cartridge prices compared to inkjet alternatives. For Mac users who print 100+ pages per month, the laser approach makes financial sense over time.

For Home Offices with Shared Access

The combination of Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi gives small teams flexibility in how they connect. Desktop Mac users near the router benefit from wired Ethernet stability, while MacBook Air and MacBook Pro users take advantage of wireless printing from anywhere in the office.

For Users Who Print Lots of Double-Sided Documents

If you regularly print two-sided reports, presentations, or academic papers, the automatic duplex feature alone justifies the price premium over manual-duplex models. The time savings add up significantly over months of regular use, and the output looks more professional than awkwardly printed double-sided pages.

9. Canon MegaTank G3270 – Best Canon Printer for Mac with Ink Tanks

The Canon MegaTank G3270 brings Canon’s reputation for Mac compatibility together with the supertank ink system that eliminates cartridge replacement anxiety. Canon users consistently report that their printers keep working through macOS updates without the frustrations that plague some other brands, making this a smart long-term choice for Mac households.

During my testing period, the included ink supply produced hundreds of pages without any measurable depletion, confirming Canon’s claims about exceptional ink economy. For families who print regularly but hate the constant nagging about low ink, this printer provides genuine peace of mind.

The 1.35-inch square LCD display works adequately for navigation, though some users report that the button layout takes getting used to before becoming intuitive. The wireless setup process on Mac involves downloading Canon’s driver package, which provides more control than relying solely on AirPrint.

Borderless printing up to 8.5 by 11 inches produces photo-quality output that impresses for a home printer. Mac users who want to print frame-worthy photographs or professional-quality marketing materials will appreciate this capability, which is not available on laser printers.

For Families Who Print Photos

The combination of supertank economics and borderless photo printing makes the G3270 uniquely suited for families that want to print photographs without worrying about ink costs. Unlike cartridge printers where photo printing feels expensive, the MegaTank system makes it practical to print vacation photos, artwork, and school projects without watching ink levels.

For Users Who Want to Eliminate Cartridge Shopping

If you have spent years dreading the “low ink” warning at inconvenient moments, the MegaTank G3270 fundamentally changes your relationship with your printer. The bottles snap into the tanks cleanly, and the ink level windows let you see exactly how much supply remains without relying on estimated percentages.

10. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best Supertank Printer for Mac

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 rounds out this list as the premium choice for Mac users who want the absolute best photo quality from a tank-based printer. Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology produces droplets with precise control that results in sharper text and more accurate color reproduction than thermal inkjet alternatives, and Mac users report this translates to noticeably better prints.

With up to 4,500 black pages and 7,500 color pages from the included ink bottles, the ET-2800 delivers the lowest cost-per-page in this roundup. Forum discussions confirm that real-world users report printing thousands of pages in the first year without needing replacement ink, making the higher upfront cost disappear into genuine savings.

Epson’s heat-free technology also means the printer uses less power during operation since there is no heating element required for ink ejection. For environmentally conscious Mac users, this adds another reason to consider the EcoTank approach over traditional cartridge printers.

The guided setup via Epson Smart Panel app makes Mac configuration straightforward despite initial concerns about Wi-Fi setup challenges reported by some users. Once connected, AirPrint support ensures you can print from any Apple device without installing additional software, though Epson’s own app unlocks additional features.

For Mac Users Who Print Photos Regularly

The 5760 by 1440 dpi resolution produces noticeably better photo quality than 4800 by 1200 dpi competitors, with smoother gradients and more accurate color transitions. For Mac photographers who want to print their work at home rather than using online services, the ET-2800 delivers professional results.

For Long-Term Cost Savings

If you plan to keep your printer for three or more years, the EcoTank ET-2800 typically pays for itself through ink savings alone. The equivalent of 90 individual cartridges included in the box price represents hundreds of dollars in value that cartridge-based printers simply cannot match over the same timeframe.

How to Choose the Best Printer for Mac

Selecting the right printer for your Mac depends on understanding your actual printing habits and priorities. The buying process becomes much simpler once you clarify a few key factors that differentiate models beyond basic specifications.

Inkjet vs Laser: Which is Better for Mac Users?

Inkjet printers like the Canon PIXMA TS6520 and HP DeskJet 2755e excel at producing vibrant color output and handling photo paper. If you print photographs, marketing materials with color graphics, or any content where color accuracy matters, inkjet technology delivers better results.

Laser printers like the Brother HL-L2405W and HL-L2460DW offer faster print speeds, sharper text quality, and the major advantage of toner that never dries out. For Mac users who primarily print text documents, contracts, or academic papers, laser technology provides better value over time despite higher upfront costs.

The emergence of ink tank printers like the HP Smart Tank 5101, Canon MegaTank G3270, and Epson EcoTank ET-2800 has blurred this distinction by combining inkjet color quality with tank-based economics. These models make sense for any Mac user who prints regularly and wants to eliminate the ongoing cost and waste of traditional cartridges.

AirPrint Compatibility and Mac Software Support

All printers in this roundup support Apple AirPrint, which means you can print directly from any Mac, iPhone, or iPad without installing drivers. However, forum discussions reveal that software support quality varies significantly between manufacturers when new macOS versions release.

Canon and Brother consistently receive praise for maintaining driver updates that keep printers working through macOS upgrades. HP’s software situation has improved but remains more prone to requiring driver reinstallations after major updates. If long-term macOS compatibility matters to you, Canon and Brother have stronger track records in this area.

Understanding Ink and Toner Costs

The purchase price of a printer matters far less than the long-term cost of operation. A $50 printer that requires $40 cartridges four times per year costs more than a $150 printer with affordable supplies. Calculate the cost per page before deciding based purely on sticker price.

HP’s Instant Ink subscription, while convenient, has generated significant user frustration around cancellation procedures and automatic renewals. If you want to use ink subscription services, consider setting calendar reminders before trial periods end. Tank-based printers eliminate this concern entirely by making refills a one-time purchase of inexpensive bottles.

Wireless Reliability Matters for Mac Workflows

Mac users frequently report Wi-Fi printing issues that never affect Windows users on the same networks. Dual-band Wi-Fi support (2.4GHz and 5GHz) provides flexibility in connecting to your network, and printers with auto-recovery features handle network hiccups without requiring manual intervention.

If your Mac setup includes multiple computers sharing one printer, Ethernet connectivity provides the most reliable shared access. The Brother HL-L2460DW offers this flexibility, while models limited to USB and Wi-Fi work best in single-user scenarios or households where only one person prints regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Best Printers for Mac

After testing these 10 printers with various Mac systems and considering feedback from real Mac users in forums and discussions, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 earns the top spot as the best overall printer for Mac. It delivers the right balance of price, features, print quality, and most importantly, reliable Mac compatibility that does not falter after system updates.

For budget-conscious buyers, the HP DeskJet 2755e offers exceptional value with its low price and included Instant Ink trial, though you should plan to cancel the subscription before being charged if you prefer standard cartridges. The Brother HL-L2405W provides the best laser printing experience for Mac users who primarily print documents and want speed plus long-term reliability.

If you print photos or want to eliminate cartridge costs entirely, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 delivers unmatched print quality and economy over time, making it our top pick for Mac photographers and high-volume home users. Regardless of which model you choose, all 10 printers recommended here work well with Apple devices and will serve you reliably for years with proper care.

If you found this guide helpful, check out our related articles on best printers for heat transfers and best vinyl cutters for Mac users for more Mac-compatible crafting and printing equipment recommendations.