Printers with USB-C: Top Picks for Modern Connectivity
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M479fdw is our top pick for most users. It offers fast prints, a full feature set, and USB-C alongside Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Owners report easy setup with modern laptops and reliable performance over time. Its main limitation is a higher price compared to inkjet alternatives.
USB-C has become the standard port on modern laptops and desktops. Many new printers now include USB-C for direct connection and charging. This roundup covers the best printers with USB-C across categories.
Whether you need a compact home printer or a robust office workhorse, USB-C simplifies setup. We selected models based on specifications, user feedback, and overall value. Read on to find the right one for you.
The shortlist, ranked
HP Color LaserJet Pro M479fdw
A multifunction laser printer with USB-C, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. It prints, scans, copies, and faxes. Owners report crisp text and vibrant colors, with speeds up to 28 ppm. It handles high volume with ease, but the toner cost is higher per page.
Pros
- Fast and reliable printing
- USB-C plus multiple connectivity options
- Automatic duplex printing
Cons
- Large footprint
- Expensive toner replacements
Canon imageCLASS MF445dw
A monochrome laser multifunction printer with USB-C. It prints at 40 ppm and includes a 50-sheet automatic document feeder. Users appreciate its solid build and low running costs. It lacks color printing, but for text documents it is exceptional.
Pros
- Very fast monochrome printing
- Low cost per page
- Robust build quality
Cons
- No color capability
- No touchscreen display
Brother MFC-J995DW
An inkjet all-in-one with USB-C, offering print, scan, copy, and fax. It uses INKvestment tanks that yield up to 6,000 pages per set. Owners report good photo quality and wireless printing. It is slower than laser models but ideal for mixed use.
Pros
- Very low ink replacement costs
- Versatile functions
- Compact design
Cons
- Slower print speed
- Ink can dry out if unused
Epson EcoTank ET-4760
A cartridge-free inkjet with USB-C and supertank refillable ink. It prints, scans, copies, and faxes. The included ink bottles last up to 7,500 pages black and 6,000 color. Owners love the low cost per page and reliable wireless.
Pros
- Extremely low running costs
- High ink yield
- Easy refill system
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Print quality not for photos
HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e
An inkjet all-in-one with USB-C, offering print, scan, copy, and fax. It features smart tasks and a 2.7 inch touchscreen. Owners report good speed and quality, plus easy mobile printing. It includes HP+ which requires an HP account.
Pros
- Fast for an inkjet
- Excellent mobile integration
- Automatic document feeder
Cons
- HP+ subscription may be needed
- Ink cartridges can be pricey
Canon PIXMA TR8620a
A six-color inkjet that includes USB-C. It offers exceptional photo quality with dedicated photo inks. It has a flatbed scanner and automatic document feeder. Owners enjoy the borderless printing and compact size, but print speed is slower.
Pros
- Superb photo output
- Compact footprint
- Great color accuracy
Cons
- Slow printing
- Ink cartridges cost more
Brother HL-L3290CDW
A color laser printer with USB-C, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. It prints at 25 ppm and offers duplex. Owners find it reliable for color graphics and text. It does not scan or copy, but for printing only it is a solid choice.
Pros
- Affordable color laser
- Compact size
- Good color quality
Cons
- No scanning or copying
- Toner replacements can be costly
How to pick the right one
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Print Speed | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP Color LaserJet Pro M479fdw | 28 ppm | Small offices needing fast color printing | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Canon imageCLASS MF445dw | 40 ppm | Busy workgroups needing monochrome efficiency | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Brother MFC-J995DW | 12 ppm black | Budget-conscious homes needing inkjet versatility | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Epson EcoTank ET-4760 | 15 ppm black | High-volume printing with low running costs | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e | 22 ppm black | Home offices needing reliable wireless and USB-C | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Canon PIXMA TR8620a | 15 ppm black | Creative users needing photo printing and scanning | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Brother HL-L3290CDW | 25 ppm | Color laser printing for small teams | 8.9 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
Do all USB-C printers support data transfer?
No, some USB-C ports on printers are for charging only. Check the specifications to ensure that the USB-C port supports data transfer. Most modern printers with USB-C will support data, but it is wise to verify.
Can I connect a USB-C printer to an older computer with USB-A?
Yes, you can use a USB-C to USB-A cable or adapter. However, the printer will run at USB 2.0 speeds, which is typically sufficient for printing. The connection will still work for basic printing tasks.
Is USB-C faster than USB-A for printing?
USB-C can support faster data transfer speeds, but printers do not require high bandwidth. For standard documents, USB-A is fine. USB-C mainly offers a reversible connector and future-proofing.
Why do some printers have USB-C but not other ports?
Manufacturers are moving to USB-C as a universal standard. Some printers may only have USB-C to simplify design. Others include Ethernet and Wi-Fi for network printing. Always check available ports to ensure compatibility with your devices.
Can I print wirelessly if my printer has USB-C?
Yes, most printers with USB-C also have Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Wireless printing is convenient for multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets. USB-C provides a wired option for secure or fast transfers.
Are USB-C printers more expensive than traditional ones?
Not necessarily. The price depends on the printer type and features. Some budget inkjet printers include USB-C for a similar cost to USB-A models. Laser printers with USB-C may have a slight premium, but prices are competitive.
How do I know if my printer uses USB-C for charging or data?
Check the printer manual or specifications. If the port is labeled with a data symbol, it supports data. If it is solely for power, it may not transfer data. Some printers have two USB-C ports, one for each purpose.
Can I use a USB-C hub to connect multiple devices to a printer?
Yes, you can use a USB-C hub to connect several computers to a single printer, but you cannot connect multiple computers simultaneously unless the printer supports network sharing. A hub may be useful for switching between devices, but a network connection is often easier.
Do all operating systems support USB-C printers?
Most modern operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, support USB-C printers. Drivers are usually available for download. For Linux, compatibility may vary, but many printers work with open-source drivers.
Our take
For a perfect balance of speed, features, and connectivity, the HP Color LaserJet Pro M479fdw is the best overall printer with USB-C. It excels in small offices with its fast color prints and multifunction capabilities. If you print mostly monochrome documents, the Canon imageCLASS MF445dw offers exceptional speed and low running costs. For home users on a budget, the Brother MFC-J995DW provides versatility and low ink costs. Choose based on your primary printing needs and usage volume.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
