8.5" x 11" Letter Printers

From work memos and contracts to personal letters and photos, letter printers produce crisp, long-lasting text and photo documents. A wide range of printers and scanners accommodate standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper, making it easy for personal and professional users to find the right device for their needs. With Staples® listings, compare different printers to find a unit that can boost your productivity.

Monochrome and Color Letter Printers
Many brands make both monochrome and color printer models. Color models offer flexibility for users who frequently or occasionally need to print photos or color-coded text documents. A monochrome printer has minimal upkeep expenses for those who don’t need color printing features, as it only requires the replacement of one toner or ink cartridge. Color printers either use tri-color cartridges that contain cyan, magenta, and yellow or single-color cartridges.

Multifunction 8.5 x 11 Printers
Many users enjoy the convenience of multifunction devices. These units go beyond printing to offer scanning and copying options. Some also work as fax machines. Multifunction models are well-suited to small offices or home offices, since they allow users to save space without giving up features. Single-function units often minimize maintenance for users who don’t need to scan, copy, or fax. It’s important to compare the print quality and speed for each function because print resolution often differs between them.

Comparing Laser and Inkjet Models
Both inkjet and laser printer models have advantages, so users can compare features and find a good fit. Laser models use powder toner, which doesn’t dry out over time. Print quality remains consistent throughout the life of the cartridge. Toner cartridges also have a much higher capacity than inkjet cartridges, allowing professionals to go longer between refills. Inkjet models typically have lower upkeep costs, brighter color output, and high image quality.

What Additional Features Do Letter Printers Have?
Some units have additional features to improve the user experience and boost productivity. Many models offer touch-screen notifications when ink levels get low, giving users time to purchase new cartridges. On certain multifunction units, professionals can use automatic document feeders to copy and scan multipage documents. Automatic duplex printing is another useful feature. It automatically structures documents and feeds paper through to print on both sides.

Do Letter Printer Units Have Wireless Connectivity?
Wireless connectivity is a common feature on many printers. It’s useful for multi-user offices and those with devices throughout the office. Many devices connect with Wi-Fi® and Wi-Fi Direct®. Some also work with a variety of operating system-specific apps and programs.

Do These Devices Work Well With Photos?
Most letter printers also produce crisp, clear photographs. Those who plan on regularly printing photographs should ensure that the model they choose is compatible with glossy and matte photo paper. Some models accommodate standard photo paper that measures 4 x 6 inches or 3 x 5 inches. Print resolution also impacts the quality of photos. Print resolution shows as dpi, or dots per inch. Higher print resolutions allow the printer to produce more dots on each inch of paper and create more detailed photos.