Choosing the right printer for cardstock can make or break your creative projects. Whether you’re crafting custom invitations, business cards, or art prints, you need a machine that delivers crisp quality and handles thicker paper without jamming. With so many options on the market, finding the perfect fit might feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry; we’ve done the legwork for you. In this article, we’ll guide you through the 10 best printers for cardstock available today. From budget-friendly choices to high-end models packed with features, there’s something here for every need and budget.
Considerations Before Buying a Printer for Cardstock
When you’re in the market for a printer that can handle cardstock, there are several factors to keep in mind. These considerations will help you make an informed decision and ensure your projects come out looking professional.
Print Quality and Resolution
Print quality is crucial when working with cardstock. Look for printers with high resolution, typically 1200 x 1200 dpi or higher. This ensures sharp text and vibrant images. For example, the Canon PIXMA Pro-100 offers excellent print quality, making it perfect for detailed art prints and professional-grade invitations.
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Compatibility With Different Thicknesses of Cardstock
Not all printers can handle thick cardstock. Check the printer’s specifications to see what paper weights it supports. A good option is the Epson SureColor P600, which accommodates various thicknesses up to 1.3mm, ensuring versatility for different types of projects like business cards or custom greeting cards.
Speed and Efficiency
Speed matters if you’re printing large batches of invitations or business materials. Look for printers with high pages-per-minute (PPM) rates without compromising on quality. The Brother HL-L8360CDW is known for its efficiency, offering fast print speeds while maintaining excellent output quality.
By considering these factors—print quality, compatibility with different thicknesses of cardstock, and speed—you’ll be better equipped to choose the right printer from Amazon that meets your needs.
1. Epson Artisan 1430 Inkjet Printer
The Epson Artisan 1430 Inkjet Printer is a top choice for those looking to print on cardstock with exceptional quality and detail.
Key Features and Benefits
This printer offers high-definition prints with a maximum resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, ensuring your projects look professional. It supports various media types, including cardstock up to 140 lb weight, making it versatile for different printing needs. The wireless connectivity allows you to print from multiple devices without hassle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional print quality with high resolution.
- Supports heavy cardstock up to 140 lb.
- Wireless printing capability for convenience.
- Slower print speed compared to other models.
- Higher ink consumption due to detailed prints.
2. Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Color Professional Inkjet Printer
The Canon Pixma Pro-100 is a top choice for those seeking professional-quality prints on cardstock. It offers excellent color accuracy and detail, making it ideal for custom invitations, business cards, and art prints.
Key Features and Benefits
- Exceptional Print Quality: The Canon Pixma Pro-100 uses an 8-dye ink system to produce vibrant colors and smooth gradients.
- Wireless Connectivity: Easily print from multiple devices with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to send print jobs directly from your smartphone or tablet.
- Versatile Media Handling: Supports various media types including glossy paper, matte paper, and thick cardstock up to 110 lb.
- High Resolution: Delivers stunning detail with a maximum resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi.
- Print Studio Pro Software: Includes software that simplifies the printing process by providing intuitive controls over color management.
- Pros
- Superior color accuracy
- Easy wireless setup
- Versatile media compatibility
- High-resolution output
- Cons
- Slower print speed compared to some competitors
- Larger footprint requires more space
[amazon bestseller=”Canon Pixma Pro-100″ items=”1″]
By choosing the Canon Pixma Pro-100, you’re investing in a printer that delivers professional results every time you print on cardstock.
3. Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer is a reliable choice for printing on cardstock, offering efficiency and high-quality results.
Key Features and Benefits
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Saves time and paper by printing on both sides automatically.
- High Print Speed: Prints up to 27 pages per minute (ppm), making it ideal for large print jobs.
- Compact Design: Fits easily in small spaces without compromising performance.
- High Resolution: Delivers sharp text and graphics with a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi.
- Connectivity Options: Includes USB connectivity for easy setup with your computer.
Pros and Cons
-
Pros
- Fast print speed ensures quick completion of tasks.
- Automatic duplexing reduces paper usage.
- High-resolution output provides clear, professional-looking prints.
- Limited to monochrome printing; not suitable for color projects.
- No wireless connectivity options available.
[amazon bestseller=”Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer” items=”1″]
By choosing the Brother HL-L2300D, you get a compact yet powerful printer that excels in producing crisp, high-quality prints on cardstock.
4. HP Laserjet Pro M254dw
The HP Laserjet Pro M254dw is a reliable choice for cardstock printing, offering excellent print quality and speed.
Key Features and Benefits
- High Print Quality: Delivers sharp text and vibrant colors, ensuring your cardstock projects look professional.
- Fast Printing Speed: Prints up to 22 pages per minute (ppm), making it efficient for large print jobs.
- Wireless Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to print from your smartphone or tablet without needing a network.
- Compact Design: Fits easily into small office spaces while still providing robust performance.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Saves time and paper by automatically printing on both sides of the page.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent Color Accuracy: Produces vivid colors that are perfect for creative projects like invitations and art prints.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive touchscreen makes it easy to navigate settings and options.
- Durable Build Quality: Designed to handle frequent use without compromising on performance.
- Higher Initial Cost: More expensive upfront compared to some other models but offers long-term value with its features.
- Limited Paper Capacity: Holds fewer sheets than some competitors, which may require more frequent refills during large print runs.
5. Epson SureColor P600 Inkjet Printer
The Epson SureColor P600 is a top choice for cardstock printing, offering professional-grade quality and versatility.
Key Features and Benefits
- High Print Quality: The Epson SureColor P600 delivers stunning print quality with its advanced MicroPiezo AMC print head technology. It produces sharp, vibrant images that are perfect for high-end cardstock projects.
- Wide Color Gamut: This printer uses UltraChrome HD ink to provide a wide color gamut, ensuring your prints have rich, accurate colors.
- Versatile Media Handling: The P600 supports various media types and sizes, including thick cardstock up to 1.3mm. Its front-loading fine art paper path makes it easy to handle different materials.
- Wireless Connectivity: With built-in Wi-Fi, you can print from multiple devices without the hassle of cables. It also supports Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print for added convenience.
- Large Color Touchscreen: The intuitive 2.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies navigation and setup, making it user-friendly even for beginners.
[amazon bestseller=”Epson SureColor P600″ items=”1″]
Pros and Cons
- Exceptional print quality with vivid colors
- Supports a variety of media types including thick cardstock
- Wireless connectivity options enhance usability
- User-friendly interface with a large touchscreen
- Higher initial cost compared to some other models
- Larger footprint may require more space in your workspace
6. Canon Pixma iX6820 Wireless Business Printer
The Canon Pixma iX6820 is a versatile printer designed for business use, but it’s also excellent for cardstock projects. Its wireless capabilities and high-resolution printing make it a top choice for many users.
Key Features and Benefits
- High Resolution: Prints at up to 9600 x 2400 dpi, ensuring sharp and vibrant images on cardstock.
- Wireless Connectivity: Easily connects to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to print from multiple devices without hassle.
- Large Format Printing: Supports paper sizes up to 13″ x 19″, perfect for larger cardstock projects.
- Five Individual Ink Tanks: Reduces waste and allows you to replace only the color that runs out.
- Quiet Mode: Operates quietly, making it suitable for home offices or shared spaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Print Quality: Delivers professional-grade prints with vivid colors and fine details.
- Versatile Media Handling: Handles various types of media including thick cardstock, glossy photo paper, and more.
- Cost-Efficient Ink System: The individual ink tanks help save money in the long run by replacing only the used colors.
- No Duplex Printing: Lacks automatic duplex printing which can be inconvenient if you need double-sided prints frequently.
- Larger Footprint: Takes up more space compared to other printers in its category.
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This section provides an overview of why the Canon Pixma iX6820 stands out among other printers available on Amazon.
7. Brother MFC-J895DW Inkjet All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-J895DW is a versatile all-in-one inkjet printer that excels in cardstock printing. Its compact design and robust features make it an ideal choice for home offices and small businesses.
Key Features and Benefits
- Versatile Functionality: The Brother MFC-J895DW offers print, copy, scan, and fax capabilities, making it a comprehensive solution for various tasks.
- High Print Quality: With a maximum resolution of 6000 x 1200 dpi, this printer ensures sharp and vibrant prints on cardstock.
- Wireless Connectivity: Enjoy seamless printing with built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and mobile device compatibility through AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Save time and paper with the automatic two-sided printing feature.
- Compact Design: Its space-saving design fits easily into any workspace without compromising on functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive touchscreen makes navigation simple.
- Fast Printing Speed: Prints up to 12 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white, ensuring efficiency.
- Cost-Efficient Ink System: Uses high-yield cartridges to reduce overall printing costs.
- Limited Paper Tray Capacity: Holds only up to 150 sheets, which might require frequent refilling for high-volume users.
- Noisy Operation: Can be slightly noisy during heavy-duty printing tasks.
[amazon bestseller=”Brother MFC-J895DW Inkjet All-in-One Printer” items=”1″]
This section highlights the Brother MFC-J895DW as a reliable option for those needing an all-in-one solution capable of handling cardstock projects effectively while maintaining affordability on Amazon.
8. Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer
The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is a versatile printer designed to handle various media types, including cardstock. It’s ideal for both home and office use, offering wide-format printing capabilities.
Key Features and Benefits
- Wide-Format Printing: Supports up to 13″ x 19″ prints, perfect for larger projects.
- Wireless Connectivity: Easily connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or NFC.
- High Resolution: Delivers sharp prints with a resolution of up to 4800 x 2400 dpi.
- Versatile Media Handling: Handles cardstock, envelopes, labels, and more.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Saves time and paper with double-sided printing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large Paper Capacity: Dual trays hold up to 500 sheets combined.
- Fast Print Speed: Prints up to 18 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive touchscreen makes navigation easy.
- Bulky Design: Takes up significant desk space due to its size.
- Ink Cost: Replacement ink cartridges can be expensive over time.
9. Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer
The Canon TS9521C is a versatile all-in-one printer perfect for crafting and photo printing enthusiasts. Its wireless capabilities and high-quality output make it an excellent choice for cardstock projects.
Key Features and Benefits
- Versatile Media Handling: Handles various media types, including cardstock, glossy paper, and envelopes.
- Wireless Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPrint for seamless printing from multiple devices.
- High Resolution: Offers up to 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution for sharp, vibrant prints.
- Built-in Scanner & Copier: Includes scanning and copying functions with a flatbed scanner.
- Compact Design: Fits easily into small spaces without compromising on functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent print quality with vivid colors
- Easy setup with intuitive touchscreen interface
- Versatile media support including heavy cardstock
- Multiple connectivity options enhance convenience
- Ink cartridges can be expensive over time
- Slower print speed compared to other models in its class
10. HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer
The HP OfficeJet 3830 is a versatile all-in-one printer perfect for cardstock projects. It offers wireless connectivity, making it easy to print from your devices.
Key Features and Benefits
- Wireless Printing: Print directly from your smartphone or tablet using the HP Smart app.
- All-in-One Functionality: This printer handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.
- Touchscreen Display: Navigate easily with the intuitive touchscreen interface.
- Compact Design: Fits comfortably in small spaces without compromising on functionality.
- Affordable Ink Options: Save on ink costs with optional high-yield cartridges.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy setup process
- High-quality prints suitable for cardstock
- Quiet mode reduces noise during operation
- Affordable price point
- Slower print speed compared to other models
- Limited paper tray capacity
Printer Comparison and Additional Tips
When choosing the best printer for cardstock, it’s essential to compare key features like resolution, speed, and price. Here are some insights to help you make an informed decision.
Comparing Resolution, Speed, and Price
- Canon PIXMA Pro-100: Offers a high resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi, ensuring sharp prints. It has a moderate print speed of 2.8 pages per minute (ppm) for color photos. Priced around $500, it’s ideal for professional-quality prints.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Delivers a resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi with a fast print speed of up to 33 ppm in both black and color. Costing approximately $350, it balances performance with affordability.
- HP Laserjet Pro M254dw: Features a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi but compensates with a swift print speed of up to 22 ppm for both black and color prints. It’s priced at about $300.
- Epson SureColor P600: Boasts an impressive resolution of up to 5760 x 1440 dpi with slower speeds at roughly one page every two minutes due to its focus on quality over quantity. This model is priced around $800.
- Canon Pixma iX6820: Provides a solid resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi with decent speeds at about ten images per minute (ipm) in black and white or color printing modes; it costs around $200.
[amazon bestseller=”Canon PIXMA Pro-100″ items=”1″]
- Choose the Right Settings: Adjust your printer settings to match the thickness and type of cardstock you’re using—select “Heavy Paper” or “Cardstock” if available.
- Use Manual Feed Tray: For thicker cardstock, use the manual feed tray instead of the automatic feeder to prevent jams and ensure smooth feeding.
- Test Print First: Always do a test print on regular paper before using expensive cardstock to avoid wastage due to errors or misalignments.
- Check Ink Levels Regularly: Ensure your ink levels are adequate since printing on cardstock can consume more ink than standard paper.
- Allow Time for Drying: After printing on cardstock, give ample drying time before handling it further—this prevents smudging or damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the best printer for cardstock can significantly impact your crafting or business projects. Whether you opt for the Canon PIXMA Pro-100, HP OfficeJet 3830, Brother HL-L8360CDW, or Epson SureColor P600, each offers unique benefits tailored to different needs. Remember to consider factors like resolution, speed, and price when making your decision.
Don’t forget to adjust your printer settings appropriately and use manual feed trays for thicker cardstock. Conducting test prints and monitoring ink levels will help ensure high-quality results. Allowing proper drying time is also crucial for achieving professional-looking prints.
By following these guidelines and selecting a printer that meets your specific requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any cardstock project with ease and confidence.