For students in Perth, a reliable and cost-effective printer is an essential tool for academic success. Whether printing lecture notes, assignments, research papers, or presentations, having access to a printer can save time and reduce stress—especially during tight deadlines. While universities offer on-campus printing services, owning a personal printer provides greater convenience, flexibility, and long-term savings.

However, with many printer options available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Students need a printer that is affordable, compact, efficient, and easy to maintain. The ideal student printer should have low-cost ink or toner, wireless printing options, and multifunction features for scanning and copying documents.

This guide will help students in Perth find the best budget-friendly printers, highlighting options that offer the best value for money. We’ll also discuss where to buy printers locally and online, cost-saving strategies, and tips for making the most of a student printing setup.

Key Features to Look for in a Student Printer

Before purchasing a printer, students should consider several key factors to ensure they get the best value for money. A good student printer should be affordable upfront, cost-efficient to maintain, and compact enough to fit in small living spaces. Below are the most important features to look for.

Affordability

• Low initial cost – Students often work with tight budgets, so choosing an affordable printer under $250 is ideal.
• Long-term running costs – Some printers may be cheap upfront but expensive to maintain due to high ink or toner costs.

Compact Size

• Small footprint – Ideal for student accommodation, dorm rooms, or shared apartments where desk space is limited.
• Lightweight design – Easy to transport when moving between rentals or back home during semester breaks.

Ink or Toner Efficiency

• Inkjet vs. laser printers – Inkjet printers are great for colour prints but require frequent ink replacements, while laser printers use toner, which lasts longer for text-heavy documents.
• Refillable ink tank options – Epson EcoTank and Canon MegaTank models reduce ink costs by eliminating cartridges.

Wireless & Mobile Printing

• Wi-Fi connectivity allows students to print from laptops, tablets, or smartphones without needing cables.
• Cloud printing support (Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint) makes it easier to print from university email or shared files.

Multifunction Capabilities

• All-in-one printers allow students to scan, copy, and print—useful for digitising handwritten notes or submitting paper-based assignments electronically.

Duplex Printing (Double-Sided Printing)

• Saves paper by printing on both sides automatically, reducing waste and long-term costs.

By keeping these features in mind, students can find a cost-effective printer that meets their academic needs without unnecessary expenses.

Best Budget-Friendly Printers for Students in Perth

To help students choose the best affordable and efficient printer, we’ve compiled a list of top budget-friendly models based on cost, features, and ink efficiency. These recommendations cover inkjet, laser, and multifunction options to suit different student needs.

Best Overall Student Printer – HP DeskJet 3755

The HP DeskJet 3755 is an excellent all-in-one budget printer that balances affordability, compact size, and essential features for students who need a reliable printer for coursework.

Why it’s great for students:

• Ultra-compact design – Ideal for dorms or shared living spaces.
• Affordable upfront cost – One of the cheapest all-in-one printers available.
• Wi-Fi-enabled – Supports Google Cloud Print and Apple AirPrint for easy wireless printing.
• Decent print quality – Handles documents and light colour printing well.

Downsides:

• Ink costs can add up over time – Standard cartridges have limited page yields.
• Slower printing speeds – Not ideal for high-volume printing.

Best for: Students who need an affordable, space-saving printer for light to moderate printing.

Best Inkjet Printer – Canon PIXMA TS3460

For students who require colour printing on a budget, the Canon PIXMA TS3460 is a solid choice. It offers good-quality colour prints for presentations, charts, and photos.

Why it’s great for students:

• Low-cost inkjet printer – Affordable upfront cost.
• Colour printing capabilities – Great for students who print images, reports, and posters.
• Wireless printing support – Works with Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, and Canon PRINT app.
• Scanner and copier included – Useful for digitising documents and class notes.

Downsides:

• Ink cartridges don’t last long – Higher cost per page compared to tank printers.
• Slower than laser printers – Not ideal for printing large documents frequently.

Best for: Students who occasionally need colour printing but still want an affordable, all-in-one solution.

Best Laser Printer – Brother HL-L2351DW

If you mostly print text-heavy documents, a laser printer is a smarter investment. The Brother HL-L2351DW provides fast, high-volume printing at a low cost per page.

Why it’s great for students:

• Toner lasts significantly longer than ink – Reduces frequent refills.
• Fast printing speeds – Great for long assignments and bulk document printing.
• Automatic double-sided (duplex) printing – Saves paper and reduces costs.
• Compact design – Smaller than most laser printers, making it ideal for student spaces.

Downsides:

• No colour printing – Strictly for black-and-white documents.
• Higher initial cost – More expensive than inkjet models upfront.

Best for: Students who print a lot of lecture notes, essays, and research papers and want low long-term costs.

Best Compact Printer – Epson Expression Home XP-2200

For students with limited desk space, the Epson XP-2200 is one of the most compact inkjet printers available while still offering Wi-Fi connectivity and colour printing.

Why it’s great for students:

• Space-saving design – Fits into small study areas easily.
• Wireless printing with mobile devices – Works with Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, and Epson iPrint.
• Decent print speeds – Handles everyday printing needs well.
• Affordable ink refills – Lower running costs than other compact models.

Downsides:

• Not suitable for heavy printing – Smaller ink cartridges mean more frequent replacements.
• No auto-duplex printing – Requires manual flipping for double-sided printing.

Best for: Students with small living spaces who still need an all-in-one printer for light document printing.

Best Multifunction Printer – Epson EcoTank ET-2811

For students who want long-term ink savings, the Epson EcoTank ET-2811 is an ink-efficient printer that uses refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges. While the initial cost is higher, running costs are much lower over time.

Why it’s great for students:

• Refillable ink tanks last much longer than standard cartridges.
• High ink yield – Prints thousands of pages before needing a refill.
• Includes scanning and copying functions – Useful for digitising class materials.
• Wi-Fi-enabled – Supports mobile and wireless printing.

Downsides:

• Higher upfront cost – More expensive than traditional inkjet printers.
• Slower print speeds than laser printers.

Best for: Students who print frequently and want to save money on ink in the long run.

Ink and Toner Cost Considerations for Students

The true cost of a printer isn’t just the purchase price—it’s also the ongoing expense of ink or toner. Some printers seem cheap upfront but become expensive over time due to high replacement costs.

Inkjet vs. Laser: Which is More Cost-Effective?

Feature	Inkjet Printers	Laser Printers
Upfront Cost	Lower ($80–$250)	Higher ($180–$400)
Ink/Toner Cost	Higher per page	Lower per page
Best For	Occasional printing & colour prints	Frequent black-and-white text printing
Speed	Slower	Faster
Longevity of Ink/Toner	Cartridges need replacing often	Toner lasts much longer

For most students:

• If you print less frequently and need colour, an inkjet printer is the better choice.
• If you print a lot of text-based assignments, a laser printer is more cost-efficient over time.

Ways to Save on Ink and Toner

• Buy high-yield cartridges – Some printers offer XL or high-capacity cartridges that last longer.
• Use draft mode for non-essential prints – Reduces ink usage by printing lighter versions of documents.
• Compare printer ink costs before buying a printer – Some printers have cheaper replacement cartridges than others.
• Consider remanufactured or third-party ink – Some third-party brands offer cheaper alternatives, but check for compatibility issues.
• Use subscription-based ink services – Some manufacturers offer ink delivery plans based on usage, which can help save money.

By choosing the right type of printer and being mindful of ink and toner costs, students can significantly reduce their overall printing expenses while still getting the best performance.

Where to Buy Student Printers in Perth

Students in Perth have multiple options when it comes to purchasing budget-friendly printers, from physical retail stores to online marketplaces. Knowing where to buy can help you find the best deals, access student discounts, and compare prices easily. Below is a breakdown of the best places to buy student printers in Perth.

Best Physical Stores for Student Printers in Perth

For students who prefer to see the printer in person before purchasing, Perth has several well-known electronics and office supply retailers that stock affordable student printers.

Officeworks

Website: Officeworks

• One of the best places for budget-friendly student printers.
• Regularly stocks HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother models.
• Offers student discounts and price match guarantees.
• Stores in Perth CBD, Osborne Park, Cannington, Joondalup, and Malaga.

Why buy from Officeworks?

• Often cheaper than big electronics retailers.
• Good return policy if the printer has issues.
• Sells a wide range of ink and toner for future refills.

JB Hi-Fi

Website: JB Hi-Fi

• Carries a range of compact and all-in-one printers.
• Frequently has discounts and bundle deals on student-friendly printers.
• Good for purchasing printers along with other student tech, like laptops.
• Locations in Perth CBD, Cannington, Osborne Park, and Morley.

Why buy from JB Hi-Fi?

• Great for seasonal discounts (especially back-to-school sales).
• Easy click-and-collect option for students in a hurry.
• Offers extended warranty and repair options.

Harvey Norman

Website: Harvey Norman

• Offers both budget and high-end printers.
• Some locations have financing options for students.
• Can be slightly more expensive than Officeworks and JB Hi-Fi.
• Locations in Cannington, Midland, Joondalup, and Mandurah.

Why buy from Harvey Norman?

• Good warranty and repair services.
• Some locations allow instalment payments for students on a budget.
• Regular promotions and bundle deals with paper and ink included.

The Good Guys

Website: The Good Guys

• Sells printers at discounted prices compared to some other stores.
• Has a price match guarantee similar to Officeworks.
• Limited selection compared to Officeworks and JB Hi-Fi.
• Locations in Osborne Park and Cockburn.

Why buy from The Good Guys?

• Offers frequent clearance sales, making it possible to find printers at below retail price.
• Sells ink and toner refills at competitive prices.

Best Online Stores for Student Printers in Perth

For students looking for convenience, competitive pricing, and more selection, online shopping is a great option. Many retailers offer student discounts, bundle deals, and free delivery on select models.

Toner Print

Website: Toner Print

• Specialises in printers, ink, and toner, ensuring students can always find compatible consumables.
• Stocks a curated range of budget-friendly printers, making it easier to find models that balance affordability and long-term running costs.
• Offers genuine and remanufactured ink and toner options, helping students save money on replacements.
• Fast shipping available within Perth, making it a convenient choice for students needing quick delivery.

Why buy from Toner Print?

• Expert knowledge in ink efficiency and cost-saving solutions.
• Wide selection of budget-friendly and student-appropriate printers.
• Easy access to genuine ink and toner refills at competitive prices.

Amazon Australia

Website: Amazon Australia

• Large selection of budget student printers.
• Frequently cheaper than physical stores.
• Fast shipping with Amazon Prime.

Why buy from Amazon?

• Often lower prices than retail stores.
• Student discounts and occasional cashback deals.
• Access to customer reviews before purchasing.

Kogan

Website: Kogan

• Offers discounted home office printers.
• Frequently runs flash sales with lower prices than major retailers.
• Can sometimes take longer to deliver compared to Amazon or Officeworks.

Why buy from Kogan?

• Good for finding budget printers at discounted rates.
• Free shipping on select deals.
• Sells remanufactured ink and toner at lower costs.

eBay Australia

Website: eBay Australia

• Great option for finding refurbished or second-hand printers.
• Some major retailers like Officeworks and The Good Guys also sell through eBay.
• Be cautious of overseas sellers—ensure the printer is compatible with Australian power requirements.

Why buy from eBay?

• Can sometimes find older or discontinued models at a cheaper price.
• Option to purchase refurbished or second-hand printers at a discount.
• Some sellers offer free shipping within Australia.

Manufacturer Websites

Some printer brands allow direct purchases from their websites, including:

• HP Australia (hp.com/au)
• Epson Australia (epson.com.au)
• Canon Australia (canon.com.au/printers)
• Brother Australia (brother.com.au)

Why buy direct?

• Guaranteed Australian warranty coverage.
• Access to the latest printer models.
• Some brands offer trade-in deals or cashback promotions.

Tips for Finding Student Discounts and Deal

• Look for back-to-school sales – January and February are the best times to buy student-friendly printers at discounted prices.
• Check price-match policies – Officeworks and JB Hi-Fi often match competitor prices, ensuring you get the best deal.
• Compare online vs. in-store pricing – Online stores may offer free shipping, making them a better option for some students.
• Ask about student discounts – Some retailers offer exclusive discounts for university and TAFE students.
• Wait for major sale events – Black Friday, Boxing Day, and EOFY (End of Financial Year) sales are great opportunities to find printers at reduced prices.

By exploring these physical and online retailers, students in Perth can find the best deals on budget-friendly printers. Whether buying in-store for immediate pickup or online for discounted prices and convenience, understanding the best places to shop ensures you get a printer that meets your academic needs at the lowest possible cost.

Tips for Students to Save on Printing Costs

Owning a printer as a student can be a cost-effective and convenient solution for handling assignments, notes, and reports. However, printing costs can add up quickly, especially when factoring in ink, toner, and paper expenses. Below are some practical ways students in Perth can save money while still getting the most out of their printer.

Optimising Print Settings for Ink and Paper Savings

Most printers have built-in settings to reduce ink and paper consumption without sacrificing quality. Adjusting these settings can make a significant difference in long-term printing costs.

Use Draft Mode for Non-Essential Prints

• Draft mode uses less ink by printing lighter versions of documents.
• Suitable for lecture notes, practice prints, and personal documents.
• Can be enabled in printer settings under “Print Quality” or “Draft Mode”.

Print in Grayscale Instead of Colour

• Colour ink is significantly more expensive than black ink.
• Most assignments and reports don’t require colour—stick to grayscale whenever possible.

Enable Automatic Duplex Printing (Double-Sided Printing)

• Duplex printing reduces paper usage by up to 50%.
• Many budget-friendly printers include auto-duplex functionality, which flips pages automatically.
• Can be set as default in printer settings.

Reduce Font Size and Margins to Fit More on One Page

• Using smaller fonts (size 11 instead of 12) and adjusting margins can help fit more content per page.
• Some fonts, such as Century Gothic and Times New Roman, use less ink than others.

Choosing the Right Ink and Toner to Save Money

Ink and toner are often the biggest ongoing expense for students with personal printers. Choosing the right type of consumables can lead to significant savings.

Buy High-Yield Cartridges

• High-yield (XL) ink and toner cartridges print more pages per refill, reducing replacement frequency.
• Many budget printers support high-yield cartridges, offering better long-term value.

Consider Refillable Ink Tank Printers

• Ink tank printers like the Epson EcoTank or Canon MegaTank eliminate the need for cartridges.
• While the upfront cost is higher, refilling with bottle-based ink is much cheaper.

Use Third-Party or Remanufactured Cartridges (When Safe to Do So)

• Some students save money by using third-party or remanufactured ink cartridges instead of brand-name ones.
• Ensure they are compatible with your printer, as some manufacturers restrict third-party ink.
• Stores like Toner Print (tonerprint.com.au) offer affordable, high-quality remanufactured ink and toner options.

Sign Up for Ink Subscription Services

• Some brands offer ink subscription plans, where replacement cartridges are sent automatically based on usage.
• Examples include:
  • HP Instant Ink – Monthly ink delivery service based on page count.
  • Epson ReadyPrint – Subscription plan for EcoTank users.
• Can be a good option for students who print regularly and want predictable costs.

Reducing Paper Waste and Printing Smart

Paper costs can add up, especially for students printing notes, drafts, and final assignments. Here’s how to cut down on waste:

Print in Batches Instead of One Page at a Time

• Printers use extra ink and toner when starting and stopping frequently.
• Printing multiple documents at once reduces excess ink use.

Use Recycled or FSC-Certified Paper

• Choosing recycled printer paper is an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.
• Brands like Reflex 100% Recycled and Planet Ark Recycled Paper are available at Officeworks and Toner Print.

Reuse Paper for Drafts and Notes

• Print drafts on the blank side of old printouts before using fresh paper.
• Keep a tray of reusable scrap paper for personal printing needs.

Sharing and Alternative Printing Solutions

For students who print occasionally, there are ways to avoid buying ink or toner frequently.

Share a Printer with Housemates or Classmates

• If you live in shared accommodation, consider splitting the cost of a printer.
• A small group can share ink and paper costs, making printing cheaper for everyone.

Use University or Library Printing Services for Large Jobs

• Many universities and libraries offer discounted printing rates for students.
• Instead of printing large lecture notes at home, use campus printers for bulk printing.

Convert Documents to Digital Formats Instead of Printing

• Save lecture slides, notes, and assignments as PDFs or cloud documents instead of printing.
• Use note-taking apps like OneNote, Notion, or Google Docs to store digital notes.
• Some universities offer free cloud storage, reducing the need for printed copies.

Timing Purchases for the Best Deals

Students looking to buy a printer or refill supplies should time their purchases carefully to maximise savings.

Buy During Sales Events

Timing your printer purchase can help you save money, especially during major sales periods when retailers offer significant discounts.

• Back-to-School Sales (January-February) – The best time to buy budget student printers, as many stores offer student discounts and bundle deals on printers and accessories.
• End of Financial Year (EOFY) Sales (June-July) – A great time to find discounted office supplies, ink, and toner refills. Retailers like Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, and Toner Print often run promotions on essential printing items.
• Black Friday & Boxing Day – Some of the biggest sales of the year, with major discounts on printers, ink, and paper bundles. Online stores like Amazon Australia, Kogan, and Toner Print frequently offer limited-time deals during these periods.

Checking Toner Print’s online store during these sales events is a smart way to find high-quality ink and toner at reduced prices, helping students save even more on long-term printing costs.

Check for Price-Match Guarantees

• Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, and The Good Guys often match lower online prices.
• Compare in-store vs. online pricing before purchasing.

Use Student Discounts

• Some retailers offer student pricing, so always ask before purchasing.
• Some brands like HP and Epson provide special student promotions through their websites.

Final Thoughts: How Students Can Reduce Printing Costs

By following these strategies, students can significantly lower printing expenses while maintaining access to a reliable printer for assignments and study materials.

Key ways to save:

• Optimise printer settings – Use draft mode, grayscale, and duplex printing to save ink and paper.
• Choose cost-effective ink and toner – High-yield, refillable, or remanufactured cartridges reduce costs over time.
• Be mindful of paper usage – Print only when necessary, use recycled paper, and reuse old sheets for drafts.
• Take advantage of student discounts and promotions – Buy printers, ink, and paper during sales events.
• Consider alternative printing options – Share a printer with housemates or use university printing services for bulk jobs.

A well-planned printing strategy ensures that students in Perth can print efficiently without overspending, making academic life more convenient and cost-effective.

Choosing the right printer as a student in Perth involves more than just looking at the cheapest model. While affordability is important, students should also consider long-term ink and toner costs, compact design, wireless connectivity, and multifunction capabilities to ensure they get the best value for their money.

For students on a tight budget, the HP DeskJet 3755 and Canon PIXMA TS3460 offer great affordable options for occasional printing. If long-term savings on ink is a priority, the Epson EcoTank ET-2811 provides high-yield ink refills, eliminating the need for frequent cartridge replacements. For those who print a lot of black-and-white documents, the Brother HL-L2351DW laser printer is a cost-efficient choice due to its long-lasting toner and low per-page costs.

Beyond selecting the right printer, students can reduce printing expenses by optimising print settings, choosing high-yield cartridges, printing in batches, and using recycled paper. Stores like Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, and Toner Print provide affordable ink and toner refills, ensuring students have access to cost-effective consumables whenever needed.

Additionally, for those who don’t print often, university printing services or shared printers in student housing can be an alternative way to save money. Students should also time their purchases during major sales events, such as back-to-school promotions, EOFY sales, and Black Friday, to get better deals on printers, ink, and paper.

By making smart buying decisions and adopting cost-saving printing habits, students in Perth can keep printing affordable and hassle-free throughout their academic years.