Getting your images ready for the cutting step of Cricut is the most exciting part of the process, in my opinion; you’re preparing the image itself and watching it being printed and brought to life right in front of your eyes.
So, imagine how frustrated I was when my printer just gave up on me in the middle of my project.
It’s incredibly difficult to find a good printer, let alone one that can be used for Cricut. Well, I decided to go on an expedition to find the best printers for Cricut. Keep on reading to find everything I came up with and to possibly meet your next favorite printer.
Top 3 Best Printer for Cricut
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | Check price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Best Overall |
Canon PIXMA iX6820 |
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| Runner Up | Runner Up |
Epson EcoTank ET-2720 |
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| Budget Friendly | For Multipurpose  |
Canon PIXMA TR4520 |
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6 Best Printers for Cricut in 2022
1. Canon PIXMA iX6820: Best Overall
I’m kicking off the best printer for cricut list with one of my all-time favorite printers for Cricut: the Canon PIXMA iX6820. This unit offers unique features that you wouldn’t find in other printers within the same price range, giving it a huge advantage over other options.
First and foremost, this inkjet printer has a resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch), which is an outstanding number, to say the least. Your prints will have exceptionally vivid colors that’ll really boost your Cricut game.
Further, this is the only printer on the list with a maximum paper size of 13 x 19”, making it your best bet if you want to print on wide-format paper. Such size could really come in handy if you’re printing in high volumes so you can have multiple images on one sheet of paper.
If you’re still not convinced, the iX6820’s printing speed will surely seal the deal. It can print up to 14.5 ppm (pages per minute) in black and 10.4 ppm in color, which saves you a lot of time just like this laser envelope printer.
While we’re on the subject of saving time, this best printer for cricut has an automatic document feeder, so you wouldn’t have to stand beside it while it’s printing and manually feeding it yourself.
What’s more, if you often find yourself struggling with setting up or using printers, the PIXMA iX6820 is one of the most user-friendly printers out there. It comes with many features like My Image Garden software, Creative Park Premium, auto power on, and even quiet mode. You’ll be familiar with this printer just minutes after unboxing it.
If there’s one thing to complain about, it’s that this unit is strictly a printer, meaning it doesn’t copy, scan, or fax. For Cricut, you wouldn’t really need those other functions, but if you plan to use your printer for different tasks as well, this could be a deal-breaker—it’s up to you to decide.
Pros
- Supports wide-format printing
- High-speed printing both in black and color
- User-friendly and easy to use
- High-quality prints with sharp colors
- Unmatched resolution
Cons
- Doesn’t copy, scan, or fax
- Wireless printing isn’t very reliable
Bottom Line
The Canon PIXMA iX6820 is the best printer for cricut you can’t go wrong with. It has everything you might be seeking in a printer for Cricut, from high resolution to wide-format printing. Plus, it’s quite speedy and user-friendly.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Runner Up
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is the one for you if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of changing ink cartridges anymore, and let me explain how. The ET-2720 is a little different from your average inkjet printer in the sense that when your ink runs out, you don’t need to change the cartridges; you just refill them.
The ink is sold in bottles that you just use to refill the empty cartridge without causing a mess in your office. Additionally, you’ll be saving money in the long run because you won’t be wasting ink by changing cartridges while they’re not completely empty similar to the best printer that are compatible with google chromebook.
Further, the impressive tank system isn’t the only selling point of this printer. The ET-2720 has a resolution of 5760 x 1400 dpi, guaranteeing high-quality prints with sharp colors. On top of that, its maximum paper size is legal, which is 8.5 x 14”, so keep that in mind.
Wait, it gets even better. This printer can also copy, scan, and fax, making it an all-in-one unit that you can use for much more than just Cricut. Moreover, it has a printing speed of 10.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color, so your prints will be ready sooner than you know it.
The one disadvantage about this unit is that it doesn’t have an automatic document feeder, which can be a pain in the neck if you’re printing in large volume.
Pros
- Hassle-free ink-tank system
- Easy to set-up and use
- High print resolution
- Decent printing speed
- Can print, copy, scan, and fax
Cons
- A little pricey
- Doesn’t feature an automatic document feeder
Bottom Line
If you don’t like wasting time or effort, the Epson ET-2720 is an excellent printer for Cricut. Not only does it have a superior resolution of 5760 x 1440, but it’s also quite speedy whether you’re printing in black and white or colors.
Besides, the EcoTank system takes the pressure of having to deal with ink cartridges off your shoulders.
3. Canon PIXMA TR4520: Budget Pick
If you’re tightly bound by a budget, Canon is here to save the day with the PIXMA TR4520 best printer for cricut. This budget-friendly unit offers excellent value for the money as it comes with features rarely found at this print point, like the ability to copy, scan, and fax.
The all-in-one printer offers a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, decent enough to print high-quality pictures that you can use for Cricut projects. Additionally, it can print on paper sizes up to legal (8.5 x 14”), which should be more than enough for an average user.
Further, this unit has a printing speed of 8.8 ppm in black and 4.4 ppm in color, which isn’t the best speed out there. Still, it’s an affordable printer, so waiting a few extra seconds for your prints shouldn’t be the deal-breaker.
Besides, the PIXMA TR4520 features an automatic document feeder, which is excellent for those printing in medium to high volumes, and it makes up for the subpar printing speed. Even some high-end printers don’t have an automatic document feeder, so this is quite impressive.
If you’re not very familiar with printers, the TR4520 is user-friendly with its Canon Print app that you can use to control the printer and to start printing wirelessly from the comfort of your own living room. There’s also the Easy PhotoPrint app that allows you to make collages and stickers, something any DIY-person would love.
Pros
- Affordable with excellent value for the money
- Great printing quality
- Features an automatic document feeder
- All-in-one printer
Cons
- Subpar printing speed
Bottom Line
Being on a budget isn’t really a set-back when it comes to finding a good printer for Cricut when the Canon PIXMA TR4520 is on the market. The all-in-one unit has a decent resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi. On top of that, it features an automatic document feeder, a great deal for the money.
4. HP Envy 5055: Best Value Pick
The HP Envy 5055 best printer for cricut has to be the printer you opt for if you’re printing in high volumes and you need a printer that can keep up with you. Besides, this printer is compatible with HP’s Instant Ink that automatically detects when you’re low on ink cartridge and sends cartridges to your doorstep.
Among the features that make this printer excellent for high volumes is its print speed of 10 ppm in black and 7 ppm in color, which is speedy enough to print everything you might need in a matter of seconds.
However, don’t let the high speed trick you into thinking that the output quality is subpar because that’s far from true. In fact, the printer produces sharp colors and excellent printings that will make for beautiful Cricut projects. It also has a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, which is quite impressive.
The Envy 5055 can also copy, scan, and fax, so you can use it for multiple projects besides Cricut. Moreover, it’s a user-friendly unit that’s easy to navigate and control using the 2.2” touchscreen. The print process is a breeze, considering it only requires pressing a few buttons on your smartphone or tablet.
Unfortunately, the printer doesn’t feature an automatic document feeder, which is a huge let-down. I have to be honest, the set-up of this printer wasn’t the easiest task I’ve done, and you might have to contact customer support to guide you through the process.
Pros
- High print speed
- Printer, copier, scanner, and a fax machine in one
- Excellent output with sharp colors
- HP Instant Ink eligible
Cons
- Not the smoothest set-up
- Doesn’t have an automatic document feeder
Bottom Line
The HP Envy 5055 best printer for cricut is an all-in-one printer that can also copy, scan, and fax. Besides, this printer is quite speedy at 10 ppm in black with a decent resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi. In other words, you’re guaranteed high-quality output in very little time.
5. Canon PIXMA MG3620: Best Entry Level Pick
If you want to get the most bang for your buck, the Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a printer that’s worth your time. This printer sells at such a budget-friendly price, yet, it offers an array of impressive functions that can even compete with expensive printers.
Further, this printer is perfect for Cricut thanks to its excellent resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi and the fact that it houses Canon FINE inkjet print technology. It produces high-quality prints with sharp colors that’ll be the highlight of your project.
The PIXMA MG3620 is an all-in-one unit, meaning it can also copy, scan and fax. Did I also mention that it’s a speedy printer? Because it can print at speeds of 9.9 ppm in black and 5.7 ppm in color.
One of my favorite things about this printer is how user-friendly it is. It has My Image Garden software that you can use to organize images and make collages, which could really boost your Cricut game. It also features Easy Photo Print software and Canon Print app that make the print process a breeze.
Unfortunately, when using this printer, I noticed that I kept running into an error when trying to print wirelessly. Sometimes, the connection just drops, and it wasn’t the easiest to set-up.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Prints sharp and vivid colors
- Incredibly user-friendly
Cons
- Wireless print isn’t too reliable
Bottom Line
The user-friendly Canon PIXMA MG3620 is the best printer for hobbyists and all Cricut lovers who are bound by a budget. It has a decent print speed and a good resolution, so you’ll be getting sharp, vivid colors from this compact printer.
6. HP OfficeJet Pro 8035
The last printer on this list is the HP OfficeJet Pro 8035. This modern-looking printer offers the best print speed out of every other product on this list at 20 ppm in black and 10 ppm in white.
This compact unit has a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, and it’s made using HP’s Thermal Inkjet technology, so you can rest assured that you’re getting high-quality prints for Cricut projects.
Additionally, this HP printer boasts an automatic document feeder, and when you combine that with its outstanding print speed, you’ll find yourself looking at a printer that’s perfect for high volumes. On top of that, The HP Officejet Pro 8035 can copy, scan, and fax.
Besides, this printer is compatible with HP Instant Ink, so you don’t even have to worry about keeping an eye on the cartridges and reordering new ones every few weeks(or days); HP does all the work for you.
Pros
- All-in-one printer
- Small and modern design
- Great value for the money
- Has an automatic document feeder
Cons
- The cricut print and cut paper tray is a little weak
Bottom Line
HP’s OfficeJet Pro 8035 is an excellent printer for cricut print and cut with its unmatched maximum print speed of 20 ppm. Additionally, this printer has a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, which results in vivid, sharp colors that you’ll love.
How to Pick a Printer for Cricut
Not any printer you have at home or office can be used for Cricut. Here are some factors you need to look into before making your final purchase.
Print Technology
As you may have noticed, all the printers mentioned in this article are inkjet printers, and there’s a reason behind that. Laser printers heat up the paper in order to melt the toner, which could be problematic with the paper you’re using for cricut print and cut.
On the other hand, inkjet printers only heat up the ink, which is exactly why inkjet printers are compatible with more paper types than laser ones, making them the better choice (sometimes the only choice) for Cricut.
To put it simply, opt for an inkjet printer.
Paper Compatibility
Making sure your printer is compatible with the kind and weight of paper you’re using is the most crucial step that you need to take before buying your next printer.
If you’re printing for cricut print and cut, chances are you’ll print on different kinds of paper, some thicker and heavier than others, and not all printers can handle that.
For example, a printer you have for office-based use is designed to handle very lightweight paper to the point that using heavier paper could damage your printer.
Double-check that your cricut printer of choice can handle the heavy cardstock, at least so that you’ll have the most freedom possible.
Resolution and Quality
Getting an inkjet printer that’s compatible with Cricut is quite vague and doesn’t guarantee the output of that cricut printer; the resolution does.
Resolution is measured by the number of ink dots per inch (dpi) in ink cartridge cricut print and cut. As you can guess, the higher that number is, the sharper your print will look. So, it’s a no brainer that you need a unit with excellent resolution, especially if you’ll print smaller images with lots of details.
If you’re seeking high-quality output, you can find printers with a resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi, like the Canon PIXMA iX6820. It goes without saying that if the printer has a high resolution, it’ll generally cost more money, so you need to find a good balance.
A general rule of thumb is to opt for 4800 x 1200 dpi or higher if you want guaranteed good results.
Print Speed
Nobody likes waiting. While slow printing isn’t exactly a deal-breaker for most people, it’s still a factor that you need to consider. If you’ll print in high volumes, the last thing you need is an ink tank printer that’ll hold you back.
Try to opt for no less than 10 ppm in black and 5 ppm in color, and the faster, the better.
Connectivity
Nowadays, most printers can accept both USB and wireless connections to start printing. The keyword here is “most”. I’ve run into multiple printers that got rid of USB ports because we’re in the age of digitalization, but that’s just restricting for some people.
Take a few extra minutes of your time to check the connectivity options of the printer you pick because that could save you hours of headache when you order the wrong printer and discover that you can’t actually use it.
FAQs
Can Any Printer Be Used for Cricut?
Unfortunately, no. Printing for Cricut is a little different from your casual every-day printing, and it has some requirements that you might not find in your local home printer. Most importantly, check that the ink tank printer can handle your paper type of choice before anything else.
What Is the Best Printer for Cricut?
Any printer that is compatible with your sticker paper of choice should be fine for Cricut. Try to opt for the best printer for cricut with high-quality, consistent for the best results.
What Type of Printer Is Best for Cricut?
Inkjet printers are the way to go for cricut print and cut because laser ones aren’t compatible with cricut print and cut materials. Also, try to opt for wide-format units or ones that can print on 8 x 11” sticker paper, at least.
Final Words
I hope that this article has helped you land your next printer for Cricut. If you’re still hesitant and you don’t know which one to opt for, here’s a quick memory refresh of my top three picks.
The Canon PIXMA iX6820 is a wide-format printer that has an outstanding resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi. Besides, its speed is around 14.5 ppm in black and 10.4 ppm in color; it’s a great choice for most people.
In the second place, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is the way to go if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of changing ink cartridges like epson workforce wf ink. With its resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, you’ll be getting an output that no other printer can match.
Lastly, the Canon PIXMA TR4520 is the most budget-friendly best printer for cricut print and cut out there, yet, it can easily compete with more expensive printers thanks to how many features it offers. This all-in-one printer has a decent resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, and it even boasts an automatic document feeder.