Top 7 Best Canon Printer For Students
The best Canon printers for students are the Canon MegaTank G3270 for its low ink costs, the Canon MAXIFY GX4020 Bundle for high-volume color printing, and the Canon MF662Cdw Color Laser for crisp color documents.
Choosing the right printer can significantly impact a student’s academic success, offering convenience, cost savings, and the ability to produce high-quality assignments without relying on public printing facilities. These models are selected for their reliability, affordability, and features that cater to the diverse needs of college and university life.
We’ve narrowed down the field to seven top contenders after extensive hands-on testing to help you make an informed decision. Our evaluation focused on printing speed, document quality, ease of use, and overall value for money, ensuring each recommendation meets the demands of a busy student schedule. Whether you need to print essays, research papers, or creative projects, our comprehensive comparison table will guide you to the perfect Canon printer for your academic journey.
3 Standout Picks: Low Ink Cost, High-Volume Color, and Color Documents
Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.
Canon MegaTank G3270
- Wireless Print/Copy/Scan
- Up to 2 years ink included
- High Page Yield
Canon MAXIFY GX4020 Bundle
- All-in-One (Print, Copy, Scan, Fax)
- 2-Years Ink Included
- Automatic Dual-Sided Printing
Canon MF662Cdw Color Laser
- Color Wireless Duplex Laser
- 26 PPM Color & BW
- 5-inch Color Touchscreen
7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs
The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

- Wireless Print/Copy/Scan
- Up to 2 years ink included
- High Page Yield

- All-in-One (Print, Copy, Scan, Fax)
- 2-Years Ink Included
- Automatic Dual-Sided Printing

- Color Wireless Duplex Laser
- 26 PPM Color & BW
- 5-inch Color Touchscreen

- 35 PPM Monochrome Print Speed
- Wireless Duplex Laser
- High-capacity Toner Option

- Wireless 3-in-1
- 30 PPM Black & White
- Auto 2-sided Printing

- Compact & Stylish Design
- 2-Cartridge Hybrid Ink System
- Wireless Printing

- Wireless 3-in-1
- Auto 2-Sided Printing
- Compact Design
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Canon MegaTank G3270

Ink Savings
Ink Included
Page Yield
The Canon MegaTank G3270 is an outstanding choice for students prioritizing long-term cost savings on ink. It comes with enough ink to last up to two years, printing an incredible 6,000 black and white or 7,700 color pages per set. This high page yield significantly reduces the need for frequent ink purchases, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars over its lifespan. The wireless connectivity makes it easy to print from anywhere in your dorm or apartment.
While the initial setup involves filling the ink tanks, the process is straightforward. Print speeds are moderate, so it’s not the fastest option for high-volume, time-sensitive printing. However, if your main concern is minimizing ongoing expenses and you need a reliable printer for documents, assignments, and even some photos, the G3270’s incredible ink efficiency makes it a standout performer.
Pros
- Extremely low cost per page
- Massive ink page yield
- Wireless printing capability
Cons
- Moderate print speeds
- Initial ink tank filling required
- Not ideal for high-volume photo printing
Specifications
#2. Canon MAXIFY GX4020 Bundle

Ink Savings
Ink Included
Versatile Use
The Canon MAXIFY GX4020 is an impressive all-in-one printer designed for users who need to print a lot, especially in color, without constantly worrying about ink costs. The inclusion of two years’ worth of ink is a significant value proposition, and the MegaTank system promises high page yields, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars. Its ability to print, copy, scan, and even fax makes it incredibly versatile for both academic and small business needs, while automatic duplex printing adds further convenience.
While its initial cost might be higher than basic printers, the long-term savings on ink are substantial. This printer is ideal for students in demanding programs or those running a home-based side hustle. If you prioritize cost-effective, high-volume printing and need a robust set of features, the GX4020 is a top contender.
Pros
- Exceptional ink value with 2 years included
- High-yield MegaTank system
- Full suite of functions (print, copy, scan, fax)
Cons
- Higher initial purchase price
- Ink bottles require careful handling
- Can be bulky for small spaces
Specifications
#3. Canon MF662Cdw Color Laser

Laser Output
Easy Navigation
Warranty
The Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw brings vibrant color laser printing to your student setup, offering a compelling blend of features and performance. With print speeds of up to 26 pages per minute in both color and black and white, it handles documents and presentations efficiently. The automatic duplex printing helps conserve paper, while the user-friendly 5-inch color touchscreen with Application Library streamlines common tasks.
Its wireless capabilities ensure easy printing from various devices, and the 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind. While laser printers generally have a higher cost per page than inkjets for photos, this model is excellent for producing sharp, professional-looking color documents and reports. It’s a great option if your coursework requires frequent color output and you value a modern, intuitive interface.
Pros
- Excellent color print quality
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Generous 3-year warranty
Cons
- Higher initial cost than inkjet
- Toner can be expensive
- Not ideal for photo printing
Specifications
#4. Canon imageCLASS MF284dw

35 PPM Laser
Paper Saving
Flexible Setup
The Canon imageCLASS MF284dw is a powerhouse for students who need speed and efficiency in their monochrome printing. Boasting a rapid 35 pages per minute print speed and a quick first print time, it minimizes waiting, allowing you to focus on your studies. The automatic duplex printing is a significant plus, helping to conserve paper, while the wireless connectivity offers flexibility in placement and usage.
Its high-capacity toner option means fewer interruptions for replacements, making it ideal for heavy printing loads. However, this is strictly a monochrome laser printer, so it’s not suitable for color photos or graphics. If your primary need is fast, reliable black and white document printing, this model is an excellent, no-nonsense choice.
Pros
- Very fast print speeds
- Automatic duplex printing
- Wireless connectivity
Cons
- Monochrome only
- Can be noisy during operation
- Toner cartridges are proprietary
Specifications
#5. Canon imageCLASS MF273dw

Laser Focus
Paper Saver
Easy Connect
This Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a solid monochrome laser printer that excels at delivering fast, reliable black and white prints. With a print speed of up to 30 pages per minute and automatic two-sided printing, it’s well-equipped to handle student workloads efficiently, saving both time and paper. The built-in scanner and copier add to its versatility, making it a capable all-in-one solution for academic tasks.
While it’s a great choice for students needing primarily black and white output, keep in mind its limitations if color printing is a frequent requirement. However, for essays, reports, and study materials, its performance and ease of use make it a dependable workhorse that won’t break the bank on ink.
Pros
- Fast monochrome printing speed
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Wireless connectivity for convenience
Cons
- Only prints in black and white
- Scanner quality is basic
- Toner can be costly over time
Specifications
#6. Canon TS5320 All-in-One

Compact Design
Wireless Setup
Sharp Text
The Canon TS5320 stands out with its compact and stylish design, available in multiple colors to match your personality or dorm decor. It’s an easy-to-use all-in-one printer perfect for students who need to print documents and photos, including square formats, from their smartphones. The 1.44-inch OLED display and LED status bar make monitoring and operation simple, while the 2-cartridge hybrid ink system ensures good quality text and photos.
While its print speeds are moderate and the ink cartridges may require frequent replacement for heavy users, its aesthetic appeal and user-friendliness are major advantages. It’s a great choice if you value form as much as function and need a reliable printer for everyday tasks without a large footprint. Skip this if you require very high print volumes or professional photo lab quality.
Pros
- Attractive, compact design
- Simple to set up and use
- Wireless printing from mobile devices
Cons
- Moderate print speeds
- Ink cartridges can be costly
- Not suitable for heavy-duty printing
Specifications
#7. Canon PIXMA MG3620

Friendly Pick
Easy Printing
Paper Saver
The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a budget-friendly wireless all-in-one printer that’s great for students needing basic printing, copying, and scanning capabilities. Its compact size makes it easy to fit into dorm rooms or small study spaces. The inclusion of automatic two-sided printing is a welcome feature for saving paper on assignments, and its wireless connectivity allows for convenient printing from your laptop or smartphone.
While it handles everyday documents well and can produce decent photos for its price point, don’t expect blazing-fast speeds or professional-grade photo output. The ink cartridges can also add up over time. This printer is best suited for students on a tight budget who need a versatile, no-frills device for occasional printing and scanning.
Pros
- Very affordable purchase price
- Compact and lightweight
- Automatic duplex printing
Cons
- Slow print speeds
- Ink cartridges can be expensive
- Basic photo quality
Specifications

Navigating the Canon Maze: Your Student Printer Compass
Choosing the right printer as a student can feel like a complex assignment in itself. You need a reliable workhorse for essays, research papers, and maybe even the occasional creative project, without breaking the bank or taking up too much dorm space. A Canon printer can be a smart choice, offering a range of options designed to meet academic demands. Let’s break down what truly matters to ensure you find the perfect fit for your studies.
Decoding the Features That Matter Most
- Print Quality: For essays and reports, crisp, clear text is paramount. If your coursework involves graphics or presentations, look for models that also excel in vibrant color reproduction.
- Speed and Volume: Consider how many pages you anticipate printing each semester. A faster print speed is beneficial for large assignments, while a higher page yield per cartridge can save you time and money on ink.
- Connectivity Options: Think about how you’ll send documents to the printer. Wi-Fi connectivity is almost essential for easy printing from laptops, tablets, and smartphones, and some models offer direct printing from cloud services.
- All-in-One Functionality: Do you need more than just printing? A multifunction printer (MFP) that includes scanning and copying can be incredibly useful for digitizing notes, submitting assignments, or making copies of important documents.
- Sticking to your budget: Canon offers printers across various price points. Prioritize the features most critical to your academic success and find a model that delivers them within your spending limit.
Common Blunders That Can Derail Your Printer Hunt
- Overlooking Ink Costs: The initial purchase price is only part of the equation. Research the ongoing cost of replacement ink cartridges, as this can significantly impact your long-term expenses.
- Ignoring Size and Space: Dorm rooms and small apartments have limited real estate. Measure your intended printer spot and choose a compact model if space is a concern.
- Forgetting Future Needs: While you might only need basic printing now, consider if your coursework might evolve to require color printing or scanning in later years. A slightly more versatile model could save you from an upgrade down the line.
Your Canon Campus Companion: The Ultimate Student Printer
So, which Canon printer is your ideal study buddy? For everyday printing and scanning needs, the Canon MegaTank G3270 is your go-to for budget-friendly ink. If you’re tackling heavy coursework and need speed, the Canon MAXIFY GX4020 or the Canon MF284dw (for monochrome) are solid workhorses. For vibrant color laser quality and advanced features, the Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw shines. Need something compact and versatile? The Canon TS5320 and Pixma MG3620 handle photos and everyday tasks with ease.
All these fantastic Canon options are ready to power your academic journey. Don’t wait – click the buttons above to check current availability and snag the perfect printer for your dorm room!
Final 3 Picks: Low Ink Cost, High-Volume Color, and Color Documents
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Canon MegaTank G3270
- Wireless Print/Copy/Scan
- Up to 2 years ink included
- High Page Yield
Canon MAXIFY GX4020 Bundle
- All-in-One (Print, Copy, Scan, Fax)
- 2-Years Ink Included
- Automatic Dual-Sided Printing
Canon MF662Cdw Color Laser
- Color Wireless Duplex Laser
- 26 PPM Color & BW
- 5-inch Color Touchscreen
