If you’re searching for the best printers with large paper trays, you’re likely balancing capacity, performance, and budget. The Brother HL-L5210DWT stands out for its impressive 250-sheet tray and reliable monochrome laser output, making it ideal for high-volume office printing. The Epson WF-7310 offers wide-format capabilities with a massive 500-sheet capacity, perfect for professional needs, but it comes at a higher price. Meanwhile, the Canon PIXMA TR160 provides portability with a smaller paper tray, suited for light, mobile printing. These choices illustrate the core tradeoff: larger trays usually mean higher upfront costs and larger footprints, but they drastically reduce paper refills. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and how to choose the right printer for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Printers with large paper trays significantly reduce refilling frequency, boosting productivity in high-volume environments.
- Laser printers generally offer larger trays and faster output compared to inkjet models, but often come with a higher initial price.
- Wide-format models like the Epson WF-7310 are best for specialized tasks requiring larger paper sizes, though they tend to be more expensive.
- Portability and compact size often come at the expense of tray capacity, making smaller printers less suitable for bulk printing.
- Pricing and ongoing ink or toner costs vary greatly; larger trays can sometimes offset higher initial expenses through lower refill frequency.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother HL-L5210DWT Business Monochrome Laser Printer with Dual Trays, Wireless and Gigabit Ethernet Networking, Duplex Printing, Large Paper Capacity, and Mobile Printing, White
This Brother model stands out for its impressive fast print speed of up to 48ppm and expandable paper capacity up to 1,390 sheets, making it ideal for busy office environments. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TR160, which is highly portable but limited in capacity and speed, the HL-L5210DWT prioritizes productivity and large-volume handling. Its dual 250- and 520-sheet trays reduce downtime from refilling, though the bulkiness and higher initial cost are tradeoffs. The advanced security features and versatile connectivity (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, mobile printing) suit tech-conscious workplaces needing secure, seamless operation. While toner costs are minimized with high-yield cartridges, the setup complexity for expandable trays may deter smaller setups. This pick makes the most sense for small to medium-sized offices needing reliable, high-speed monochrome output without frequent refills.
Pros:- Exceptional print speed of up to 48ppm for efficiency
- Expandable paper capacity up to 1,390 sheets reduces refilling
- Built-in advanced security features safeguard sensitive documents
- Versatile connectivity with Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing
Cons:- Bulkier size may not fit small desks or limited spaces
- Initial cost is higher compared to compact or consumer models
- Requires setup for additional trays to maximize capacity
Best for: Small to medium-sized offices with high-volume monochrome printing needs
Not ideal for: Home users or small teams with light printing demands or color needs
- Printer Type:Laser
- Print Speed:48 ppm
- Paper Capacity:Up to 1,390 sheets (with optional tray)
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Mobile
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Security Features:Triple Layer Security
- Toner Cartridge:High-yield 11,000 pages
- Dimensions:15.3″D x 14.7″W x 15.3″H
Bottom line: This model is best suited for offices prioritizing speed, security, and large-volume paper handling.
Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, 50-Sheet Paper Tray and 1.44″ Display
This Canon PIXMA TR160 is ideal for those who need a lightweight, space-saving printer with decent capacity—50 sheets and easy wireless connectivity make it perfect for mobile professionals or travelers. Unlike the Brother HL-L5210DWT, which excels in high-volume office printing, the PIXMA prioritizes portability and photo-quality output, though at the expense of speed and capacity. Its compact design, combined with features like borderless printing and a simple app interface, makes it an excellent choice for casual use or occasional printing on the move. The tradeoff is a slower print speed (5.5 ppm color and 9 ppm black) and limited paper handling, which makes it less suitable for heavy workloads. However, the optional battery extends its mobility, making it stand out for remote work or travel.
Pros:- Lightweight and highly portable, fits in backpacks
- Wireless connectivity with app support for easy printing
- Borderless photo printing capability
- Optional battery for on-the-go use
Cons:- Limited paper capacity of only 50 sheets
- Slower print speeds compared to office models
- No scanning or fax functions
Best for: Travelers, students, or remote workers needing portable printing solutions
Not ideal for: Offices requiring high-volume or fast monochrome printing
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Paper Tray Capacity:50 sheets
- Print Speed:5.5 ppm color, 9 ppm B&W
- Connectivity:Wireless, App
- Display:1.44″ OLED
- Maximum Media Size:8.5″ x 11″
- Weight:4.5 pounds
- Special Features:Borderless printing, battery optional
Bottom line: Ideal for mobile users who prioritize portability over high-volume printing or speed.
Epson Expression Home XP-5200 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer with Scan Copy, Automatic 2-Sided Printing, Borderless Photos, 150-Sheet Paper Tray and 2.4″ Colorfull Display – Black
This Epson XP-5200 delivers impressive color quality and versatile features, including a 150-sheet tray and automatic duplex printing, making it a strong choice for home users needing photo and document printing. Compared with the Brother HL-L5210DWT, which is more suited for office volume and monochrome output, the XP-5200 excels in color accuracy and photo printing, though at a slower speed of 7.5 ppm color and 14 ppm black. Its compact design and user-friendly 2.4″ display make setup and everyday use straightforward. The tradeoff is a lower duty cycle and slower print speeds, which might not handle busy household or small office workloads efficiently. The inclusion of individual ink cartridges reduces waste and cost for color printing.
Pros:- Excellent color and photo print quality
- Automatic 2-sided printing saves paper
- Compact and stylish design
- Individual cartridges for cost efficiency
Cons:- Limited duty cycle and slower print speeds
- Maximum sheet capacity of 150 sheets
- No scanning or faxing features
Best for: Home users or hobbyists who want quality color printing and photo capabilities
Not ideal for: High-volume office use or monochrome-only printing needs
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Paper Capacity:150 sheets
- Print Speed:7.5 ppm color, 14 ppm black
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Maximum Media Size:8.5″ x 11″
- Display:2.4″ color LCD
- Print Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
- Special Features:Borderless photos, individual ink cartridges
Bottom line: Best suited for households and hobbyists prioritizing vibrant color and photo printing over volume.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, copy, fax, ADF, Duplex printing best-for-office, 3 month Instant Ink trial included, AI-enabled (403X0A)
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e is designed for dynamic office environments, offering print speeds up to 18 ppm color and a 250-sheet paper tray, along with automatic duplex scanning and copying. Unlike the Brother HL-L5210DWT, which is monochrome and laser-based, this inkjet model provides vibrant color output and multifunction capabilities such as faxing and scanning. Its AI-enabled print optimization ensures professional-quality documents with minimal waste, and the wireless connectivity simplifies multi-device use. The 3-month Instant Ink trial adds value, especially for offices with fluctuating print volumes. However, ink costs and slower speed compared to laser models are tradeoffs, and its overall duty cycle may be lower than dedicated laser printers. The built-in security and cloud features make it suitable for small businesses prioritizing versatility.
Pros:- Vibrant color and high-quality documents
- Automatic duplex scanning and copying
- Large 250-sheet paper tray
- AI-enabled print optimization for professional results
Cons:- Slower print speed compared to laser printers
- Higher ink replacement costs with frequent use
- Limited duty cycle for heavy workloads
Best for: Small offices or workgroups needing versatile color printing and multifunction features
Not ideal for: High-volume monochrome printing or environments requiring rapid speed
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Print Speed:18 ppm color
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Mobile
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Maximum Media Size:8.5″ x 14″
- Special Features:AI print adjustment, fax, ADF
Bottom line: Ideal for small offices seeking versatile color printing with multifunction capabilities and security features.
Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM Output, Duplex Feature, Mobile Device Compatible, 250-Sheet Paper Tray for Professional Home Office Printing (HL-L3220CDW)
This Brother HL-L3220CDW offers a compelling balance for home offices, providing color laser printing at 19 ppm and a 250-sheet tray, making it suitable for professional-quality documents with minimal refills. It outperforms the Canon PIXMA TR160 in speed and capacity, especially for color documents, while maintaining a compact form factor. Its wireless capabilities and mobile device compatibility facilitate flexible printing from various devices, ideal for busy entrepreneurs or remote workers. The duplex feature and high page speed are advantages; however, the initial price is higher than typical consumer printers, and it lacks features like scanning or copying. Its robust security and high-volume capacity make it a smart choice for dedicated home offices that need professional results without sacrificing space.
Pros:- Fast color printing at 19 ppm
- High-capacity 250-sheet tray reduces refills
- Wireless and mobile device compatibility
- Duplex printing for efficient document handling
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to basic models
- No scanning or copying functions
- Size may be slightly larger for very limited spaces
Best for: Home professionals or small business owners needing fast, vibrant color output
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with minimal printing needs
- Printer Type:Color Laser
- Print Speed:19 ppm color
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Maximum Media Size:8.5″ x 11″
- Printer Resolution:1200 x 600 dpi
- Dimensions:16.9″W x 16.7″D x 8.4″H
Bottom line: Best for home offices that require quick, high-quality color printing with large paper capacity.
Epson Workforce WF-2960 Wireless All-in-One Printer with Scan, Copy, Fax, Auto Document Feeder, Automatic 2-Sided Printing, 2.4″ Touchscreen Display, 150-Sheet Paper Tray and Ethernet
This model stands out for its combination of high-quality output, versatile features, and a generous 150-sheet paper tray, making it a strong choice for busy home offices. Compared with the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310, the WF-2960 is more compact and easier to set up, though it slightly lags in maximum media size and speed. Its PrecisionCore technology ensures crisp text and vibrant color, essential for professional-looking documents. The 2.4″ touchscreen simplifies navigation, and auto duplex printing reduces paper waste, benefiting eco-conscious users. The ability to print from smartphones via Epson Smart Panel enhances convenience, but the reliance on genuine Epson cartridges can increase ongoing costs. The built-in fax and Ethernet support round out its office capabilities. This pick makes the most sense for users needing reliable, high-volume home printing with versatile connectivity.
Pros:- 150-sheet large paper tray for high volume printing
- Sharp text and vibrant graphics with PrecisionCore technology
- Auto duplex printing to save paper
- Intuitive 2.4″ color touchscreen
Cons:- Uses only genuine Epson cartridges, increasing ongoing costs
- Maximum media size limited to 8.5 x 14 inches
- Slightly slower than some laser alternatives for large print jobs
Best for: Small to medium home office users who prioritize speed, print quality, and paper capacity without sacrificing ease of use.
Not ideal for: Large businesses or high-volume print shops — its max media size and speed may fall short for demanding environments.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Print Speed (Color):7.5 ppm
- Print Speed (Black & White):14 ppm
- Maximum Paper Size:8.5 x 14 inch
- Maximum Sheet Capacity:150
- Display:2.4″ color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Weight:14.1 pounds
Bottom line: Ideal for home office users who need a reliable, versatile inkjet with large paper capacity and quality output.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with Print up to 13″ x 19″ Auto Double-Sided Printing max 11″ x 17″, 500-sheet Capacity, 2.4″ Color Display, Smart Panel App – Black
This pick makes the most sense for offices or creative environments that require printing up to 13″ x 19″ with a massive 500-sheet capacity, surpassing the Epson Workforce WF-2960 in media size and volume. Its high-speed output of 25 ppm in black and 12 ppm in color, combined with DURABrite Ultra inks, ensures professional-quality, durable prints on large media. The 2.4″ color display and Epson Smart Panel app streamline operation and setup, ideal for busy workflows. Its dual 250-sheet trays and rear feed support extensive print runs with minimal refilling, though the overall size and weight (nearly 30 pounds) make it less suitable for small desks. The use of genuine Epson cartridges is essential to avoid damage, which could impact long-term costs. This device is perfect for high-volume, large-format printing needs, especially in creative or specialty print settings.
Pros:- Prints up to 13″ x 19″ for large projects
- Massive 500-sheet capacity for high-volume jobs
- Fast print speeds with high-quality color output
- Convenient wireless control via Smart Panel app
Cons:- Heavy and bulky, requiring dedicated space
- Higher initial investment and maintenance costs
- Requires genuine Epson cartridges to prevent damage
Best for: Offices or print shops needing large-format, high-volume, and durable color prints with efficient workflow management.
Not ideal for: Small home users or environments with limited space, due to its size and weight.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Speed (Color Pages):12 ppm
- Maximum Sheet Capacity:500
- Display:2.4″ color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Weight:29.8 pounds
Bottom line: Best suited for professional environments with large-format, high-volume printing demands and ample space.
How We Picked
The selection process focused on printers that feature large paper trays, prioritizing capacity, print quality, and ease of use. We evaluated each model based on paper tray size, printing speed, connectivity options, and overall build quality. Cost-effectiveness and maintenance requirements also played a role, ensuring that each pick offers real value for high-volume printing. The ranking balances performance with affordability, highlighting models suitable for different user needs—from home offices to professional environments.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Printers With Large Paper Trays
Choosing the right printer with a large paper tray involves more than just capacity. It’s important to consider how the printer’s features align with your printing volume, space, and budget. Larger trays are ideal for reducing downtime, but they can also mean a bigger footprint and higher costs. Understanding these tradeoffs helps you pick a model that fits your specific workflow and environment.Tray Capacity and Size
Prioritize tray capacity if you frequently print large documents or run high-volume jobs. While larger trays mean fewer refills, they also add to the printer’s size and potentially its cost. Consider your available space and whether a larger footprint fits comfortably into your environment. Don’t assume bigger is always better; balance capacity with the physical constraints of your workspace.
Print Speed and Volume
High-volume printing demands faster output speeds, especially in office settings. Laser printers typically excel here, offering quicker print times than inkjets. Ensure the printer can handle your expected monthly duty cycle without excessive wear or slowdowns. Overestimating your needs might lead to unnecessary expenditure, while underestimating can cause workflow bottlenecks.
Connectivity Options
Modern printers should support multiple connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing. These features enable seamless integration into busy work environments, reducing the need for direct connections. If you have a mixed device environment, prioritize models with versatile options to streamline your workflow and avoid compatibility issues.
Cost of Consumables and Maintenance
Large paper trays often come with higher upfront costs, but ongoing expenses like toner or ink can vary widely. Laser printers generally have lower per-page costs for monochrome printing, making them more economical long-term. Consider the availability and price of consumables, as well as maintenance needs, to ensure your printer remains cost-effective over its lifespan.
Size and Space Requirements
Printers with large trays tend to be bulkier, which can be a drawback in small or cluttered spaces. Measure your available area carefully and compare it with the dimensions of your shortlisted models. Sometimes, a slightly smaller tray with a more compact design might serve your needs better if space is limited, even if it means refilling a bit more often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the paper tray on a standard printer?
In most cases, upgrading the paper tray on a standard printer is not feasible because trays are usually integrated into the design. However, some models offer optional extra trays or larger capacity accessories. If high capacity is a priority, look for printers designed with expandable trays or dual-tray configurations from the start, as retrofitting is often limited or not possible.
Are laser printers with large trays suitable for photo printing?
Laser printers with large trays primarily excel at text and document printing, especially in high volumes. While some color laser models can handle photo printing, they often do not match the quality of dedicated inkjet photo printers. If photo quality is important, consider a color inkjet with a sizable tray, but be aware of the tradeoff in speed and cost. For high-volume photo printing, specialized photo printers are usually a better choice.
How does tray size impact printer footprint and placement?
Generally, larger paper trays contribute to a bigger overall printer size, which can be problematic in tight spaces. Although a larger tray reduces refill frequency, it often means the printer will occupy more desk or floor space. If your workspace is limited, look for models that balance tray capacity with a compact design or consider vertical models that optimize space.
Is it worth paying more for a printer with a larger tray?
Paying more for a larger tray can be justified if you regularly handle high-volume printing, as it reduces downtime and improves productivity. However, for infrequent printing, a smaller tray might suffice and save you money upfront. Assess your typical print volume and whether the convenience of fewer refills outweighs the higher initial investment.
What should I consider regarding printer maintenance and durability?
Printers with larger trays tend to be more robust to support higher capacity, but they also require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent paper jams and ensure smooth operation. Choose models with good build quality and accessible maintenance features. Regularly replacing consumables and keeping the printer clean can extend its lifespan and maintain print quality over time.
Conclusion
If you need the best overall for high-volume office use, the Brother HL-L5210DWT offers excellent capacity and reliable monochrome laser performance. For those seeking best value, a model like the Epson Workforce WF-2960 balances capacity with affordability and versatility. Premium buyers should consider the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 for its wide-format capabilities and massive tray capacity, suitable for professional printing needs. Beginners or small home offices might prefer the compact, portable Canon PIXMA TR160 despite its smaller tray, for its ease of use and mobility. Finally, for specific professional tasks requiring large formats, the Epson WF-7310 stands out. Choosing the right model depends on your print volume, space, and budget constraints—matching these factors ensures you get the best printer tailored to your needs.
