Having a reliable and affordable printer can save you time and money.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the best cheap printer in Kenya that fits your needs? Should you go for an inkjet, laser, or thermal printer? What features should you consider before making a purchase?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the 12 best budget-friendly printers in Kenya, covering their prices, key features, and where to buy them. We'll also provide expert tips on choosing the best printer for your needs, including the pros and cons of different types of printers.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Cheap Printer in Kenya
When purchasing a cheap printer in Kenya, it is crucial to go beyond just looking at the price. A printer should meet your needs efficiently while remaining cost-effective in the long run. Below are the key factors to consider before making a purchase:
1. Printer Type: Inkjet vs. Laser vs. Thermal
- Inkjet Printers – These are best for home users and businesses that require color printing and photo printing. They use liquid ink, which can be expensive to replace.
- Laser Printers – More suitable for high-volume printing in offices. They use toner instead of ink, making them faster and more cost-effective in the long run.
- Thermal Printers – Mostly used for receipts and labels, making them ideal for businesses in the retail and hospitality industries.
2. Print Speed and Volume
If you print frequently, consider a printer with a higher pages-per-minute (PPM) rate. For instance, laser printers generally have faster printing speeds compared to inkjet models, which makes them better suited for businesses with high print demands.
| Printer Type | Print Speed (PPM) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Inkjet | 5-15 PPM | Home users, students, and occasional printing |
| Laser | 20-50 PPM | Offices, businesses, and bulk printing |
| Thermal | Varies | Retail, POS systems, and receipt printing |
3. Print Quality (DPI - Dots Per Inch)
The print resolution is measured in DPI (dots per inch). If you need a printer for high-quality text and image printing, go for a model with a higher DPI rating.
- 300 DPI – Suitable for general documents and text printing
- 600 DPI – Ideal for professional documents and moderate-quality images
- 1200+ DPI – Best for photo printing and graphic design
4. Connectivity Options
Modern printers offer multiple ways to connect, which improves ease of use. Consider printers with:
- USB Connectivity – Standard for direct PC connections
- Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct – Enables wireless printing from laptops, smartphones, and tablets
- Ethernet – Useful for office networks where multiple users need access
- Bluetooth and Mobile Printing – Convenient for quick printing from mobile devices
5. Cost of Ink or Toner
Many cheap printers in Kenya come with affordable upfront prices but expensive ink refills. Always check:
- Cartridge cost and availability
- Page yield (how many pages a cartridge can print before needing replacement)
- EcoTank or refillable ink systems for cost-saving
6. Multifunction Capabilities (All-in-One Printers)
If you need a printer that can scan, copy, and fax, consider an all-in-one printer. These models save space and money by combining multiple functions in one device.
7. Paper Size and Capacity
Before purchasing, ensure the printer supports the paper sizes you frequently use, such as A4, A5, or A3. Additionally, check paper tray capacity if you print large volumes to avoid frequent refilling.
The 12 Best Cheap Printers in Kenya
Finding an affordable printer that delivers quality performance can be challenging. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the 12 best cheap printers in Kenya, categorized by their features, prices, and best use cases.
1. HP DeskJet 2710 – Best Budget All-in-One Printer
Price Range: Ksh 7,000 – Ksh 12,000
Key Features:
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- Wireless printing via Wi-Fi and HP Smart app
- Compact design, ideal for home use
- Supports A4, A5, and A6 paper sizes
- Print speed: 7.5 pages per minute (black), 5.5 pages per minute (color)
Why Buy?
The HP DeskJet 2710 is one of the most affordable all-in-one printers in Kenya, making it ideal for students and home offices. It offers decent print quality at a low price.
2. Epson EcoTank L3110 – Best for Low-Cost Ink Refills
Price Range: Ksh 22,000 – Ksh 26,000
Key Features:
- Ink tank system for cost-saving
- High page yield (up to 7,500 color pages per refill)
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- USB connectivity
- Borderless photo printing
Why Buy?
The Epson EcoTank L3110 is a perfect choice if you print frequently. The ink tank system drastically reduces printing costs, making it economical for businesses and students.
3. Canon PIXMA MG2540S – Best for Home Use
Price Range: Ksh 6,500 – Ksh 9,500
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- Energy-efficient with Auto Power On/Off
- Print speed: 8 pages per minute (black), 4 pages per minute (color)
Why Buy?
This budget-friendly inkjet printer is excellent for home users who need an affordable option for occasional printing. However, ink cartridges can be costly if used frequently.
4. HP LaserJet 107a – Best Budget Laser Printer
Price Range: Ksh 16,000 – Ksh 20,000
Key Features:
- Fast monochrome (black-and-white) printing
- High-quality 1200 x 1200 DPI resolution
- USB connectivity
- Compact size, suitable for offices and students
Why Buy?
The HP LaserJet 107a is an affordable laser printer that offers fast and high-quality printing, making it perfect for offices or users who print a lot of documents.
5. Brother DCP-T220 – Best for Bulk Printing
Price Range: Ksh 18,000 – Ksh 22,000
Key Features:
- Ink tank system for high-volume printing
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- Print speed: 28 PPM (black), 11 PPM (color)
- USB connectivity
Why Buy?
The Brother DCP-T220 is ideal for students, small businesses, and offices looking for an economical printer with cheap ink refills.
6. Canon i-SENSYS LBP6030 – Best Cheap Monochrome Laser Printer
Price Range: Ksh 14,000 – Ksh 18,000
Key Features:
- Fast laser printing (up to 18 PPM)
- Compact and lightweight design
- Energy-efficient with low power consumption
- USB connectivity
Why Buy?
If you need a fast and efficient laser printer for black-and-white documents, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP6030 is one of the best options under Ksh 20,000.
7. HP Smart Tank 515 – Best Wireless Ink Tank Printer
Price Range: Ksh 25,000 – Ksh 30,000
Key Features:
- Wireless printing via Wi-Fi and HP Smart App
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- High page yield (up to 6,000 pages per ink refill)
- Borderless printing for photos
Why Buy?
The HP Smart Tank 515 is perfect for businesses and students looking for low-cost, high-volume printing with wireless connectivity.
8. Epson L3250 EcoTank – Best for Photo Printing
Price Range: Ksh 28,000 – Ksh 32,000
Key Features:
- Wireless printing and mobile compatibility
- Borderless photo printing
- High-resolution printing (5760 x 1440 DPI)
- Low ink cost with refillable ink bottles
Why Buy?
If you print a lot of photos or marketing materials, the Epson L3250 EcoTank delivers professional-quality prints at an affordable cost.
9. Kyocera FS-1040 – Best for Office Use
Price Range: Ksh 18,000 – Ksh 22,000
Key Features:
- Fast printing speed (up to 20 PPM)
- High toner capacity for low-cost printing
- USB connectivity
- Compact and durable design
Why Buy?
This affordable monochrome laser printer is built for small and medium-sized businesses that need reliable and cost-effective document printing.
10. Ricoh SP 210SU – Best Entry-Level Laser Printer
Price Range: Ksh 15,000 – Ksh 19,000
Key Features:
- Print, scan, and copy functions
- Compact and stylish design
- High-speed printing (up to 22 PPM)
- USB connectivity
Why Buy?
The Ricoh SP 210SU offers fast and efficient laser printing at a low price, making it ideal for students and professionals on a budget.
11. Pantum P2500W – Best Affordable Wireless Printer
Price Range: Ksh 14,000 – Ksh 18,000
Key Features:
- Wireless printing via Wi-Fi and mobile apps
- Fast laser printing at 22 PPM
- Compact and lightweight design
- USB connectivity
Why Buy?
If you need a budget-friendly wireless laser printer, the Pantum P2500W is a great option for home and office users.
12. Zebra ZD220 – Best for Receipt and Label Printing
Price Range: Ksh 20,000 – Ksh 25,000
Key Features:
- Thermal printing technology (no ink required)
- Ideal for businesses, retail stores, and logistics
- USB connectivity
- Fast printing speed
Why Buy?
The Zebra ZD220 is perfect for printing receipts, barcodes, and labels, making it ideal for retail businesses and logistics companies.
Where to Buy Cheap Printers in Kenya
Finding a reliable vendor is crucial when purchasing a cheap printer in Kenya. Whether you prefer online shopping or buying from physical stores, here are the best places to buy affordable printers in Kenya.
1. Laptop Clinic Kenya (Best Overall Option)
Location: Nairobi, Moi Avenue, along Munyu Road
Why Buy Here?
- Specializes in laptops, printers, and accessories
- Competitive prices on both new and refurbished printers
- Offers repair and maintenance services
Website: Laptop Clinic Kenya
2. Jiji Kenya (Best for Second-Hand Printers)
Why Buy Here?
- Wide variety of new and used printers
- Competitive pricing with room for negotiation
- Sellers from different locations across Kenya
Website: Jiji Kenya
3. Kilimall (Best for Online Shopping Discounts)
Why Buy Here?
- Frequent discounts and flash sales on printers
- Fast delivery within Nairobi and major towns
- Secure payment options, including cash on delivery
Website: Kilimall
4. Shopit Kenya (Best for Bulk Purchases and Business Printers)
Location: Nairobi, Rehema House, Standard Street
Why Buy Here?
- Great discounts for bulk purchases
- Sells both inkjet and laser printers
- Reliable customer support for corporate buyers
Website: Shopit Kenya
5. Carrefour Kenya (Best for In-Store Shopping with Warranties)
Locations: Multiple branches in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu
Why Buy Here?
- Official warranties on all printers
- Reliable customer service and returns policy
- Available in major malls across Kenya
Website: Carrefour Kenya
6. Safaricom Shop (Best for Buying with Lipa Mdogo Mdogo or Credit)
Why Buy Here?
- Flexible payment plans for businesses and individuals
- Original printers with warranties
- Locations in major towns across Kenya
Website: Safaricom Shop
7. Text Book Centre (Best for Students and School Use Printers)
Why Buy Here?
- Special discounts for students, schools, and offices
- Sells high-quality inkjet and laser printers
- Locations in major malls like Sarit Centre and Garden City
Website: Text Book Centre
Final thoughts on the Best Cheap Printers in Kenya
Choosing the best cheap printer in Kenya depends on several factors, including your budget, printing needs, and the type of printer you prefer. Whether you need an inkjet printer for home use, a laser printer for high-speed printing, or an all-in-one printer for scanning and copying, there are plenty of affordable options available.
To recap, here are some key takeaways from this guide:
- Budget-Friendly Options – The HP Deskjet 2320 and Epson EcoTank L3250 are excellent choices for affordable, high-quality printing.
- Business & Office Use – HP Laser 107w and Epson EcoTank L5290 offer cost-effective solutions for businesses that require high-volume printing.
- Where to Buy – Trusted online platforms like Jumia Kenya, Kilimall, and Jiji Kenya offer competitive prices. Laptop Clinic and other physical stores provide expert guidance and warranty support.
Before making a purchase, always compare prices, check printer specifications, and read customer reviews to ensure you get the best value for your money. Investing in a cheap yet reliable printer will save you money in the long run while meeting your printing needs efficiently.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others looking for affordable printers in Kenya. For more in-depth reviews and buying guides, stay tuned for our latest updates.