What is the Best Printer for a Mac computer? It can feel overwhelming. With so many options, features, and brands, how do you choose the best one for your needs? While almost every modern printer claims Mac compatibility, not all deliver a seamless experience. Some offer easy setup, while others require workarounds. For Mac users, factors like AirPrint support, reliable wireless connections, and easy driver installation matter a lot.
If you want a printer for home, office, or creative work, it’s important to know what really makes a printer a good fit for a Mac. Whether you need to print documents, photos, or labels, this guide will help you discover the best printers for Mac computers, why they stand out, and what to consider before buying.
With over two thousand words of practical advice and real-world insights, this article gives you all the details you need to make a smart decision.
What Makes A Printer Ideal For Mac?
Not every printer that works with Windows will work smoothly with a Mac. Mac computers have unique software and hardware needs. Here are the most important features to look for:
- AirPrint support: AirPrint lets you print from your Mac, iPhone, or iPad without installing extra drivers. This is a big advantage for Apple users.
- Easy driver installation: Some printers need you to download drivers from the manufacturer, while others work automatically with macOS.
- Reliable wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections are usually more stable than USB for Mac users.
- Quality customer support for Mac: Not every brand offers good help for Apple users.
- Long-term software updates: MacOS updates can break old printer drivers, so regular updates from the manufacturer are important.
- Document and photo printing quality: Depending on your needs, you may want high-quality color or just sharp black and white prints.
Some printers also offer extra features like scanning, copying, or even faxing. But the basics above are where you should start.
Key Types Of Printers For Mac
There are several main types of printers to consider. Your choice depends on your typical printing needs:
- Inkjet printers: Good for color photos, creative projects, and general home use. They handle a wide range of paper types.
- Laser printers: Best for fast, high-volume black and white documents. Color laser printers are good for business graphics.
- Photo printers: Designed for high-quality photo prints. These are perfect for photographers and artists.
- All-in-one printers: Combine printing, scanning, and copying (sometimes fax). Great for offices and busy homes.
- Portable printers: Compact and easy to carry. Useful for travel and small workspaces.
Now, let’s look at the best printers for Mac in each category.
The 10 Best Printers For Mac Computer Users
After deep research and hands-on testing, these ten printers stand out for their Mac compatibility, print quality, and overall value. Each has unique strengths, so you can find one that fits your needs.
1. Hp Officejet Pro 9015e
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is a highly-rated all-in-one printer. It offers fast printing, scanning, and copying, making it suitable for home offices and small businesses. With built-in AirPrint support, you can print from your Mac or iPhone without installing drivers. The touchscreen interface is easy to use, and the automatic document feeder makes scanning multi-page documents simple.
This printer is known for its reliable wireless connection. HP’s Smart app allows for remote printing and scanning, which is very convenient for Mac users. One small downside is that it uses four ink cartridges, which can get expensive if you print a lot of color pages.
However, print quality is excellent, especially for text documents and simple graphics.
Typical users: Home offices, students, small businesses
Key features: AirPrint, duplex printing, scanning, Wi-Fi, HP Smart app
2. Canon Pixma Ts8320
If you want a printer that handles both photos and documents, the Canon PIXMA TS8320 is a top choice. It uses a six-ink system, which helps produce vibrant, sharp photos. Setting up with a Mac is easy, thanks to AirPrint and the Canon Print app. You can print directly from your Photos app or any other program on your Mac.
The TS8320 also scans and copies, making it versatile. Its touchscreen is bright and responsive. One non-obvious advantage: it works with SD cards, so you can print photos directly without using your Mac. The main downside is that ink refills can be costly, especially if you print many photos.
Typical users: Photographers, families, creative users
Key features: AirPrint, six-ink system, SD card slot, scanning, copying
3. Brother Hl-l2390dw
The Brother HL-L2390DW is a black and white laser printer that’s perfect for those who need fast, reliable printing but don’t care about color. It’s one of the most affordable laser options that works well with Macs. AirPrint support means you can print wirelessly from any Apple device.
This printer is known for its low cost per page and high print speed. It’s also very quiet compared to many rivals. The HL-L2390DW scans and copies, so it covers most basic office needs. If you only print occasionally, the toner doesn’t dry out as inkjet cartridges can.
Typical users: Students, small offices, home users who print mostly text
Key features: AirPrint, scanning, duplex printing, Wi-Fi, low cost per page
4. Epson Ecotank Et-4760
If you want to save money on ink, the Epson EcoTank ET-4760 is a smart choice. Instead of cartridges, it uses refillable ink tanks that last much longer. This model is an all-in-one with printing, scanning, and copying. It connects easily to Macs with AirPrint and the Epson app.
One insight that many buyers miss: EcoTank printers cost more upfront, but their ink is much cheaper over time. If you print lots of pages every month, you’ll save money compared to cartridge printers. The print quality is good for both documents and photos, though some users say photos can look a bit less vibrant than dedicated photo printers.
Typical users: High-volume home offices, families, teachers
Key features: AirPrint, refillable ink tanks, Wi-Fi, automatic document feeder
5. Hp Color Laserjet Pro M255dw
For those who need color laser printing, the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw is a top pick. It’s especially good for offices or work-from-home setups where you print presentations, charts, and graphics. Setup is simple with AirPrint, and it supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet for flexible connections.
This printer is known for its sharp color and fast print speeds. Toner cartridges last a long time and are less likely to dry out compared to ink. The main drawback is cost: color laser printers are more expensive than black and white or inkjet models, and toner refills can add up. Still, for the right user, the speed and quality are worth it.
Typical users: Offices, professionals, users who print lots of color documents
Key features: AirPrint, Wi-Fi, fast color printing, duplex printing
6. Canon Imageclass Mf644cdw
The Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw is an all-in-one color laser printer. It’s designed for small offices or anyone who needs scanning, copying, and high-volume color printing. Mac users will like its AirPrint support and robust driver updates, which help avoid compatibility problems with future macOS releases.
One detail many miss: the imageCLASS series includes a large touchscreen and customizable shortcuts. This can speed up repetitive tasks, like scanning to email or cloud storage. While it’s larger than most inkjets, its speed and durability make it a good investment for busy users.
Typical users: Small offices, workgroups, busy households
Key features: AirPrint, scanning, duplex printing, Wi-Fi, touchscreen
7. Epson Expression Photo Hd Xp-15000
For artists and photographers, the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 stands out. It prints wide-format photos (up to 13″ x 19″) with stunning color accuracy, thanks to its six-color ink system. AirPrint support means you can send images straight from your Mac’s Photos app.
One unique insight: this printer can handle heavier specialty papers, making it good for greeting cards, art prints, and craft projects. It’s not the fastest printer, but photo quality is professional-level. The main downside is the high cost of ink, especially when using all six cartridges.
Typical users: Photographers, artists, designers
Key features: AirPrint, wide-format printing, six-color ink, specialty media support
8. Brother Mfc-j995dw
If you want an all-in-one that’s affordable to run, the Brother MFC-J995DW is worth a look. It uses INKvestment Tank cartridges, which last longer than standard ones. This printer works smoothly with Macs via AirPrint and Brother’s iPrint&Scan app.
A detail beginners often miss: the MFC-J995DW has a built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) sensor. This lets you tap your phone to the printer for instant wireless printing—no complex setup. It’s a great feature for households with multiple users. The color quality is good for everyday use, but not quite up to dedicated photo printers.
Typical users: Families, teachers, small offices
Key features: AirPrint, long-life ink, NFC, scanning, copying
9. Hp Envy Inspire 7955e
The HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is a versatile all-in-one that’s especially popular with families. It prints, scans, and copies, and has built-in AirPrint support for Macs and iOS devices. The 7955e also supports borderless photo printing up to 8.5″ x 11″.
A small but useful feature: it comes with a separate photo paper tray, so you don’t have to swap paper every time you want to print a photo. The HP Smart app makes scanning and mobile printing simple. Ink costs are typical for home inkjets, but HP’s Instant Ink subscription can help you save if you print regularly.
Typical users: Families, students, home offices
Key features: AirPrint, photo tray, borderless printing, scanning
10. Canon Selphy Cp1500
For users who want a small, portable photo printer, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 is a standout. It prints postcard-sized photos (4″ x 6″) with impressive color and clarity. AirPrint support makes it easy to print from your Mac, iPhone, or iPad.
One advantage: the SELPHY uses dye-sublimation technology, so photos are dry and smudge-proof right out of the printer. It’s great for parties, events, or scrapbooking. The main limitation is size—you can’t print regular documents, only photos.
Typical users: Scrapbookers, event planners, casual photo lovers
Key features: AirPrint, portable, dye-sublimation, photo quality
Printer Comparison For Mac Users
To help you see the differences, here’s a quick comparison of the top five printers for Mac users:
| Printer | Type | AirPrint | All-in-One | Best For | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e | Inkjet | Yes | Yes | Home Office | $200 |
| Canon PIXMA TS8320 | Inkjet | Yes | Yes | Photos & Documents | $180 |
| Brother HL-L2390DW | Laser (B/W) | Yes | Yes | Text & Documents | $160 |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4760 | Inkjet | Yes | Yes | High Volume Printing | $400 |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw | Laser (Color) | Yes | No | Color Documents | $300 |
How To Choose The Best Printer For Your Mac
Choosing the right printer isn’t just about picking the most popular model. Here’s what you should consider:
1. Check For Airprint And Macos Compatibility
AirPrint lets you print without drivers, which is a big advantage. Even if a printer claims to support Mac, check the manufacturer’s website for recent driver updates. Some older printers lose compatibility when macOS updates.
2. Decide Inkjet Vs. Laser
- Inkjet printers are better for color photos and creative work. They’re usually cheaper up front, but ink can be expensive.
- Laser printers are faster for black and white documents and have a lower cost per page.
If you print only a few pages a month, inkjet is fine. For heavy document printing, laser is better.
3. Think About Your Printing Needs
- Do you need to scan or copy?
- Will you print a lot of photos or mostly text?
- Do you need portable printing?
- Is speed or print quality more important?
These questions help narrow down your options.
4. Consider Ongoing Costs
The cost of ink or toner is a big factor. Some printers (like Epson EcoTank or Brother INKvestment) have refillable tanks that save money if you print a lot. Cheap printers often have expensive cartridges.
5. Wireless And Mobile Printing
Most modern printers support Wi-Fi, but not all have equally reliable connections. If you have a large house or thick walls, look for a printer with dual-band Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
6. Look For Good Support And Warranty
Apple users sometimes have trouble with drivers after macOS updates. Brands like HP, Brother, Canon, and Epson usually provide better Mac support than lesser-known brands.
Pros And Cons Of The Most Popular Printers
Here’s a quick look at the main strengths and weaknesses of each recommended printer:
| Printer | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e | Easy setup, fast, AirPrint, good app | Ink cost can add up |
| Canon PIXMA TS8320 | Great photo quality, SD card slot | Expensive ink |
| Brother HL-L2390DW | Low cost per page, fast, quiet | No color printing |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4760 | Very low ink cost, all-in-one | High initial price |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw | Sharp color, fast, reliable | Toner is expensive |
Common Mistakes Mac Users Make When Choosing A Printer
Many Mac users run into problems because they make simple mistakes. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Assuming all printers support AirPrint: Not every printer works with macOS out of the box. Double-check before buying.
- Ignoring driver support: If the manufacturer doesn’t update drivers for new macOS versions, your printer could stop working.
- Buying too cheaply: Low-cost printers often have high cartridge prices, poor wireless, or weak Mac support.
- Overlooking wireless setup: Some printers have complicated Wi-Fi setup processes that frustrate users.
- Missing paper size or specialty options: If you print envelopes, labels, or odd sizes, check compatibility first.
A non-obvious mistake: some Mac users forget to check if the printer supports scanning to Mac. Not all all-in-ones have Mac-compatible scanning software, which can be a hassle.
Setting Up Your Printer With A Mac
Modern Macs make printer setup easier than ever, especially with AirPrint. Here’s what to do:
- Unpack and power on the printer.
- Connect to your Wi-Fi network using the printer’s touchscreen or setup software.
- On your Mac, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
- Click the + button to add a new printer.
- Your Mac should find the printer automatically if it’s on the same network.
- If prompted, install any additional software or apps (like HP Smart or Canon Print).
If you’re using a USB, plug in the cable, and macOS should detect the printer. For advanced features (like scanning or fax), you may need to install the manufacturer’s app.
Tips To Get The Most From Your Mac Printer
- Update firmware regularly: Manufacturers fix bugs and add AirPrint features through firmware updates.
- Use high-quality paper for best results, especially with photos.
- Print a test page after setup to check colors and alignment.
- Set up scanning shortcuts for common tasks (like scanning to email).
- Try the manufacturer’s app for extra features, like double-sided scanning, faxing, or cloud printing.
- Register your printer for warranty and support.
When To Consider A Different Option
While the printers above fit most Mac users, there are special cases:
- For professional photography, consider a dedicated photo printer like the Epson SureColor series.
- If you need large-format prints (like posters), look for a wide-format printer.
- For travel, a compact portable printer (like Canon SELPHY or HP Tango) is best.
- For high-volume business printing, a larger laser printer with a multi-tray setup may be needed.
Where To Find Up-to-Date Printer Compatibility
Apple keeps a list of printers that work with macOS and AirPrint. If you want to check compatibility before buying, visit the official Apple Support page. This resource is especially helpful if you’re considering an older or less common model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is AirPrint and Why Is It Important For Mac Users?
AirPrint is Apple’s printing technology that lets you print from a Mac, iPhone, or iPad without installing drivers. It means faster setup, fewer compatibility problems, and easy wireless printing. If a printer supports AirPrint, it’s a safer choice for Mac users.
Can I Use Any Printer With My Mac?
Most modern printers will work with a Mac, but not all support all features. Some need special drivers or apps. Always check for AirPrint and updated macOS drivers before buying. Older printers may stop working after macOS updates.
Do I Need To Install Software For My Printer On A Mac?
If the printer supports AirPrint, you usually don’t need extra software for basic printing. However, for scanning, advanced settings, or firmware updates, the manufacturer’s app can be helpful. MacOS will guide you through installation if needed.
Which Is Better For A Mac: Inkjet Or Laser Printer?
Choose an inkjet if you print photos or color documents and only print occasionally. Pick laser if you print a lot of black and white text or need fast, high-volume printing. Both types work well with Mac if they support AirPrint.
How Do I Fix Printer Problems On My Mac?
First, restart your Mac and printer. Check Wi-Fi or cable connections. Make sure your printer and Mac are on the same network. Update your macOS and printer firmware. If problems persist, reinstall the printer or check the manufacturer’s support site for Mac-specific advice.
The Best Printer For Your Mac: Final Thoughts
The best printer for your Mac depends on your needs, budget, and how you plan to use it. If you want an all-rounder, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e and Canon PIXMA TS8320 are reliable choices. For high-volume or cost-effective printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-4760 or Brother HL-L2390DW are smart options. If you need photo quality, the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 stands out.
Take time to consider what you print most, how often, and which features matter to you. Always check for AirPrint support and updated drivers to avoid headaches. A good printer can last for years, so pick one that fits your workflow and makes your Mac experience even better.