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I want to buy a cheap printer to use with my Ubuntu laptop. It is ok if the printer would be black and white. The main thing I want is a plug and play feature - no specific drivers, no set ups and etc. Do you have any suggestions?

maxpestun
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5 Answers5

34

In general Linux does not require specific drivers for printing. CUPS will handle this for you. The generel rule applies here: stick with compatible hardware and you will have a hassle free usage.

Regarding specifically printers:

Have a look at the Ubuntu wiki page on printers. Notable excerpt:

Manufacturer-Specific Installation

Many of these printer manufacturers require non-free drivers or plug-ins. HP has the largest selection of free software compatible printers. Some of the higher end laser machines from other manufacturers are at least partially free software compatible.

And the wiki has a link to a site that sells Linux compatible hardware

I do not think you will go wrong when you choose any of the other printers listed on these 2 sites or even if you just buy a random HP printer.

Community
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Rinzwind
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19

hp is the best Linux Imaging and Printing

HPLIP is an HP developed solution for printing, scanning, and faxing with HP inkjet and laser based printers in Linux.

The HPLIP project provides printing support for over 2,080 printer models--including; Deskjet, Officejet, Photosmart, PSC (Print, Scan, Copy), Business Inkjet, LaserJet, Edgeline MFP, and LaserJet MFP.

HP Linux Imaging and Printing

hhlp
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5

I'm using a Brother HL-2270DL Laser printer ($69) with no issues. Just plug it in and go. It is also wireless , but I didn't try it in that mode.

BigJohn
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1

Good advice from Rinzwind.

If you're willing to spend a little extra, I got a CanonMG5220 color, all-in-one printer that I'd recommend. It has a reasonable price, runs well, and does everything I need. Mentioned as it may suit you better down the road (details here).

Todd Partridge 'Gen2ly'
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0

I am running on Ubuntu as well. For one, I have the same question before. And found and tested that HP printers are most capable of running smoothly on Ubuntu. I think Konika is one good printer for Ubuntu as well.

Sathyajith Bhat
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Jacob Green
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