As someone who’s been dissecting printers for over a decade and a half, I’ve seen the evolution of inkjets, lasers, and tank systems firsthand. Cardstock printing—whether for business cards, invitations, or heavy-duty reports—demands a machine that can handle thicker media without jamming or compromising quality.
The best printers for cardstock aren’t just about raw specs; they’re about reliability, versatility, and how they hold up under real-world pressure. After years of testing, tinkering, and occasionally cursing at paper trays, I’ve narrowed down six standout models from 2020 to 2025 that excel at this niche task.
Let’s dive into the details—HP, Brother, Epson, and Canon all make an appearance, and I’ll break down what makes each tick for cardstock warriors like us.
Why Cardstock Printing Matters?
Cardstock isn’t your average paper. It’s thick, often 200-300 GSM (grams per square meter), and can choke a lesser printer faster than you can say “paper jam.” The best printers for cardstock need robust feed mechanisms, adjustable trays, and enough oomph to push ink or toner onto heavier stock without streaking or fading.
Over the years, I’ve printed everything from wedding invites to prototype packaging, and I’ve learned the hard way which machines can take the heat. Below, I’ll walk you through six contenders, each with its own strengths, quirks, and cardstock cred.
How We Tested These Printers?
After 15 years of wrestling with printers—some brilliant, some maddening—I’ve honed a testing process that cuts through the hype.
To find the best printers for cardstock, we didn’t just skim spec sheets; we put these machines through the wringer with real-world grit.
We ran stacks of 65 lb, 80 lb, and 110 lb cardstock—standard weights for invites, business cards, and heavy reports—watching for jams, misfeeds, or tray tantrums. Speed mattered, but so did quality: we checked text sharpness, color vibrancy, and ink adhesion on matte and glossy finishes.
Rear trays got special attention; they’re often the secret sauce for thick media. For duplex models, we flipped cardstock manually or let the printer do it, timing the difference. Ink costs? We tracked pages per cartridge or tank refill, printing until the lights blinked.
Settings were tweaked—paper type set to “cardstock,” quality bumped to high—because pros like us know defaults won’t cut it. From a jammed HP that taught me patience to an Epson that sailed through 300 sheets, these trials shaped our picks. This is how we separated the champs from the chumps.
Reviews of the Best Printers for Cardstock
1. HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b is a sleek, office-focused inkjet that launched in 2024, and it’s built for pros who don’t mess around. With duplex printing and a 250-sheet input tray, it’s designed for high-volume tasks. Cardstock handling? It supports up to 110 lb (about 300 GSM) through its main tray, which is impressive for an inkjet.
I’ve run 65 lb stock through it for a batch of client brochures, and it didn’t flinch—clean feeds, vibrant colors, and no curling. Speeds hit 22 ppm (pages per minute) for black and 18 ppm for color, making it a workhorse for small offices or freelancers juggling deadlines.
Pros:-
Duplex Mastery: Automatic two-sided printing on cardstock is a time-saver—think double-sided business cards without manual flipping.
Color Precision: HP’s thermal inkjet tech delivers sharp, vivid output, even on matte cardstock.
Wireless Reliability: Seamless Wi-Fi setup; I printed from my phone across the house with zero hiccups.
Cons:-
Ink Costs: Cartridges run dry fast if you’re printing heavily—HP’s Instant Ink subscription helps, but it’s another expense.
No Scanner: It’s print-only, so you’ll need a separate device for digitizing those cardstock proofs.
Compared to Others
Against the HP OfficeJet 8015e, the 9110b is faster and sturdier for cardstock, but it lacks the all-in-one features. It’s a step below the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800 in media versatility, though it’s more compact and office-friendly.
Check Price on Amazon2. Brother MFC-J5855DW INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer
Brother’s MFC-J5855DW is a beast for cardstock enthusiasts. Launched in 2022, it boasts an INKvestment Tank system—a hybrid cartridge-tank tech that promises up to a year of ink out of the box. It handles 11” x 17” ledger-size cardstock, which I tested with a set of oversized art prints.
The 50-sheet rear tray is a godsend for thick media, supporting up to 110 lb stock. Print quality? Crisp text and bold colors, though photos lean slightly warm. At 30 ppm for black, it’s speedy for an all-in-one.
Pros:-
Ledger-Size Power: Perfect for large-format cardstock projects—think posters or folded brochures.
Ink Longevity: That “year of ink” claim held up in my month-long test of mixed documents and cardstock runs.
Rear Feed: The manual tray handles thick stock like a champ, no jams in sight.
Cons:-
Bulky Footprint: It’s a tank in every sense—make sure your desk can handle it.
Photo Nuance: Colors are vibrant, but not as nuanced as the Epson ET-2800 for glossy cardstock prints.
Compared to Others:-
It outshines the Canon MegaTank for larger cardstock sizes but lacks the finesse of the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800’s photo output. Against the HP 9110b, it’s slower on duplex but wins with scanning and copying.
Check Price on Amazon3. HP OfficeJet 8015e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
The HP OfficeJet 8015e, released in 2021, is a budget-friendly all-in-one that punches above its weight for cardstock. With a 225-sheet tray and support for 110 lb media, it’s reliable for small batches—think 50 invites or promo cards.
I printed a stack of 80 lb stock, and the colors popped, though duplexing took patience at 10 ppm. The bonus? Six months of Instant Ink included, which kept costs down during my testing phase.
Pros:-
All-in-One Value: Print, scan, and copy cardstock without breaking the bank.
Ink Perks: That six-month trial saved me on a 200-page cardstock job.
Compact Design: Fits snugly in a home office setup.
Cons:-
Speed Lag: Slower than the 9110b, especially on two-sided cardstock runs.
ADF Quirks: The 35-sheet feeder occasionally misaligns thicker stock.
Compared to Others:-
It’s less robust than the Brother MFC-J5855DW for large formats but more affordable. The Epson ET-2800 beats it on ink efficiency, though the 8015e’s scanning edge keeps it in the game.
Check Price on Amazon4. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer
Epson’s EcoTank ET-2800, introduced in 2021, is a cardstock-friendly gem for home users. Its cartridge-free tank system delivers thousands of pages—up to 7,500 color prints per refill, per Epson’s specs.
I ran 65 lb cardstock through the 100-sheet rear tray, and it handled it smoothly, with vibrant dye-based inks that shone on glossy finishes. It’s not lightning-fast (10 ppm black), but for small-scale projects, it’s a cost-saver.
Pros:-
Ink Savings: Refill bottles are dirt-cheap; I printed 300 cardstock sheets and barely dented the tanks.
Photo Quality: Stunning color depth for cardstock photos or crafts.
Simple Setup: Wi-Fi and app integration were flawless out of the box.
Cons:-
No Duplex: Manual flipping for two-sided cardstock is a drag.
Small Tray: 100 sheets max means frequent reloads for big jobs.
Compared to Others:-
It’s a leaner, cheaper alternative to the Epson ET-5800, with similar ink tech but fewer bells and whistles. The HP 8015e edges it out for office multitasking, but the ET-2800’s ink economy is unmatched.
Check Price on Amazon5. Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800 All-in-One Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800, launched in 2020, is the premium pick for cardstock pros. This all-in-one beast supports up to 110 lb stock across its 500-sheet capacity (two trays plus rear feed).
I printed a mix of 80 lb and 100 lb cardstock—reports, menus, you name it—and the output was flawless, with pigment-based inks for sharp text and rich colors. Add duplex printing, scanning, faxing, and Ethernet, and it’s a small-office titan.
Pros:-
Versatility: Handles cardstock sizes up to 13” x 19” via the rear tray.
High Yield: Tanks yield 10,000+ pages; I barely refilled after weeks of heavy use.
Pro Features: Duplex ADF and fast 25 ppm make it a productivity champ.
Cons:-
Price Tag: Upfront cost is steep—think long-term savings.
Size: It’s a desk hog compared to the compact HP 9110b.
Compared to Others:-
It trumps the ET-2800 in speed and features, while outclassing the Brother MFC-J5855DW in photo precision. The HP 9110b is snappier for pure printing, but the ET-5800’s all-in-one prowess is unrivaled.
Check Price on Amazon6. Canon MegaTank All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer
Canon’s MegaTank, refreshed in 2023, is a home-use hero with a tank system rivaling Epson’s EcoTanks. It supports cardstock up to 105 lb (about 280 GSM) via its rear tray.
I tested it with 80 lb matte stock for greeting cards, and the hybrid inks—pigment black, dye-based colors—delivered crisp text and punchy hues. With 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages per refill, it’s built for volume without the cartridge hassle.
Pros:-
Ink Efficiency: MegaTank bottles keep costs low; I printed 150 cards for pennies.
Wireless Ease: App-driven printing felt effortless.
Compact Build: Sleeker than the Brother MFC-J5855DW.
Cons:-
Speed: 11 ppm black isn’t winning races—patience required.
No Ledger Size: Tops out at 8.5” x 14”, unlike the Brother’s 11” x 17”.
Compared to Others:-
It’s neck-and-neck with the Epson ET-2800 for home use but lacks the ET-5800’s pro-grade features. The HP 8015e offers faster duplex, but Canon’s ink system feels more refined.
Check Price on Amazon7. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw, introduced in 2024, brings laser precision to the cardstock game. This all-in-one supports up to 110 lb stock via its 250-sheet tray and 50-sheet ADF, which I tested with 80 lb cardstock for a stack of double-sided flyers.
It churned out 26 ppm (black and color), with TerraJet toner delivering vibrant, smudge-free results. The single-pass duplex ADF scanned thick media flawlessly, and its compact design fits tight office spaces. I printed a batch of 100 cards—no jams, no fuss.
Pros:-
Laser Speed: 26 ppm for both black and color; it’s a sprint compared to inkjets like the 8015e.
ADF Excellence: Single-pass duplex scanning handled cardstock without skewing.
Toner Durability: High-yield cartridges (up to 2,500 pages) outlast the 9110b’s ink.
Cons:-
Photo Limits: Laser tech lacks the glossy finesse of the ET-2800 for cardstock photos.
Upfront Cost: Pricier than the 8015e, though toner savings offset it over time.
Compared to Others:-
It’s a faster, sharper alternative to the HP 9110b, with scanning and faxing to boot. Against the Brother MFC-J5855DW, it’s more compact and precise but can’t match the 11” x 17” capability. The ET-5800’s tank system is cheaper long-term, but the 3301fdw’s laser edge wins for text-heavy cardstock jobs.
Check Price on AmazonQuick Glance: Cardstock Printer Showdown
|
Printer Model
|
Max Cardstock Weight
|
Tray Capacity
|
Duplex Printing
|
Ink/Toner Type
|
Print Speed (Black/Color)
|
Price Range
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
250 sheets
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
Inkjet (Cartridge)
|
22/18 ppm
|
$200-$250
|
|
Brother MFC-J5855DW
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
250 + 50 (rear)
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
INKvestment Tank
|
30/30 ppm
|
$300-$350
|
|
HP OfficeJet 8015e
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
225 sheets
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
Inkjet (Cartridge)
|
18/10 ppm
|
$150-$200
|
|
Epson EcoTank ET-2800
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
100 sheets
|
No (Manual)
|
EcoTank (Bottle)
|
10/5 ppm
|
$200-$250
|
|
Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
500 + rear
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
EcoTank (Bottle)
|
25/25 ppm
|
$600-$700
|
|
Canon MegaTank
|
105 lb (280 GSM)
|
100 + rear
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
MegaTank (Bottle)
|
11/6 ppm
|
$250-$300
|
|
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw
|
110 lb (300 GSM)
|
250 + 50 (ADF)
|
Yes (Automatic)
|
Laser (Toner)
|
26/26 ppm
|
$400-$500
|
Notes:-
Max Cardstock Weight: Indicates the heaviest stock each printer officially supports.
Tray Capacity: Includes main tray plus additional rear/ADF options where applicable.
Price Range: Approximate retail range as of April 2025, based on typical market trends.
This table highlights why these are the best printers for cardstock—from the HP 3301fdw’s laser speed to the Epson ET-5800’s high capacity. Use it to match your needs, whether it’s budget, volume, or photo quality.
How to Choose the Best Printer for Cardstock
After 15 years of coaxing printers through cardstock chaos—jams, smudges, and all, I’ve learned that picking the best printers for cardstock isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal.
It’s about matching the machine to your workload, budget, and quirks. Whether you’re printing 50 wedding invites or 500 business cards, here’s how to zero in on the right tool for the job. Let’s break it down.
Assess Your Volume and Purpose:-
First, figure out how much cardstock you’re pushing through. For small batches—say, home crafts or occasional flyers—the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 or Canon MegaTank delivers vibrant results without breaking the bank. Their tank systems keep ink costs low, ideal if you’re not printing daily.
But if you’re an office pro cranking out double-sided reports or client proofs, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b or Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800 step up with higher tray capacities (250 and 500 sheets) and automatic duplexing. I’ve run 100-sheet cardstock jobs through the 9110b without a hiccup—speed and reliability matter when deadlines loom.
Size matters too. Need ledger-size (11” x 17”) cardstock for posters? The Brother MFC-J5855DW is your go-to, handling big formats via its rear tray. Most others, like the HP 8015e, cap at 8.5” x 14”, so measure your needs first.
Ink vs. Toner: Cost and Quality:-
Cardstock printing guzzles ink—or toner—so running costs are key. Inkjet tank systems, like the Epson ET-5800 (10,000+ pages per refill) or Canon MegaTank (6,000 black pages), save you from cartridge sticker shock. I printed 300 cards on the ET-2800 and barely dented the tanks—pennies per page.
Cartridge-based models like the HP 9110b or 8015e lean on subscriptions like Instant Ink to stay affordable, but heavy users will feel the pinch. Then there’s the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw, a laser beast with toner yielding 2,500 pages.
It’s pricier upfront, but for text-heavy cardstock—think sharp menus or flyers—it’s a long-term win. Photos on glossy stock? Stick to inkjets; laser lacks that sheen.
Speed and Features for Efficiency:-
Speed can make or break a project. The HP 3301fdw (26 ppm) and Brother MFC-J5855DW (30 ppm) blitz through cardstock runs, while the ET-2800 (10 ppm) demands patience. Duplexing’s a game-changer too—manual flipping on the ET-2800 is a chore, but the 9110b and ET-5800 automate it seamlessly. Need scanning or faxing? All-in-ones like the 3301fdw or 8015e cover you; the print-only 9110b doesn’t.
Pro Tip: Test the Rear Tray
Here’s a nugget from years of trial and error: always test rear trays for thicker stock. The Brother MFC-J5855DW and ET-5800 shine here, feeding 110 lb cardstock without protest. Adjustable trays and robust rollers are non-negotiable for the best printers for cardstock.
Budget It Out
Finally, weigh cost against longevity. The HP 8015e ($150-$200) is a steal for starters, while the ET-5800 ($600-$700) is a pro investment. Match your pick to your purse—and your patience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Printers for Cardstock
1. What makes a printer good for cardstock?
A top-tier cardstock printer needs a sturdy feed path, adjustable trays, and support for thick media—think 200-300 GSM or 65-110 lb. The best printers for cardstock, like the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800, handle this with rear trays and robust rollers. I’ve seen flimsy machines choke on 80 lb stock—don’t skimp on build quality.
2. Can all printers handle cardstock?
No. Most budget printers max out at 20 lb paper and jam on anything thicker. The best printers for cardstock, like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw or Brother MFC-J5855DW, are designed for 110 lb stock. Check specs—anything less than 60 lb support won’t cut it.
3. Should I choose inkjet or laser for cardstock?
It depends. Inkjets like the Canon MegaTank excel for vibrant, glossy cardstock prints—think photos or invites. Lasers, like the HP 3301fdw, nail sharp text and speed (26 ppm) for business cards or flyers. I’ve found lasers smudge less on matte stock, but inkjets win for color depth.
4. How do I avoid jams when printing cardstock?
Use the rear tray—it’s a lifesaver. The Brother MFC-J5855DW and Epson ET-2800 feed thick stock smoothly this way. Set the printer to “cardstock” mode, and don’t overload the tray. I’ve cleared enough jams to know: less is more.
5. Which printer is cheapest to run for cardstock?
Tank systems rule here. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 and Canon MegaTank print hundreds of pages for pennies—300 cards barely dented my ET-2800’s tanks. Cartridge models like the HP 8015e lean on Instant Ink, but the HP 3301fdw’s toner lasts longer for high volumes.
6. Can I print double-sided on cardstock?
Yes, with automatic duplexing. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b and Epson ET-5800 flip cardstock effortlessly—perfect for brochures. The ET-2800 requires manual flipping, which I’ve done for small jobs, but it’s a hassle.
7. What’s the best printer for large cardstock sizes?
The Brother MFC-J5855DW handles 11” x 17” stock like a champ—great for posters. The Epson ET-5800 goes up to 13” x 19” via its rear tray. Most others, like the HP 9110b, stick to 8.5” x 14”.
8. How do I pick the best printer for cardstock on a budget?
The HP OfficeJet 8015e ($150-$200) offers all-in-one value with 110 lb support. Pair it with Instant Ink, and you’re golden for small runs. I’ve tested it—50 invites, no sweat.
9. Do these printers work wirelessly?
Yes, all seven—HP 9110b, 3301fdw, Brother MFC-J5855DW, etc.—support Wi-Fi. I’ve printed from my phone across the house with the Canon MegaTank. Setup’s a breeze.
10. Where can I find the best printers for cardstock?
Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or direct from HP, Epson, Brother, and Canon. Prices vary—$150 for the 8015e, up to $700 for the ET-5800. Check for deals; I’ve snagged discounts on refurbs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Printers for Cardstock
After 15 years of wrestling with printers, I can say the best printers for cardstock boil down to your needs. For office speed and duplexing, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9110b and HP 3301fdw lead the pack.
Need large-format muscle? The Brother MFC-J5855DW has your back. On a budget? The HP OfficeJet 8015e and Epson EcoTank ET-2800 deliver value without skimping on quality. For pro-level versatility, the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5800 reigns supreme, while the Canon MegaTank strikes a sweet spot for home creators.
I’ve jammed my share of trays and cursed at misfeeds, but these seven have proven their mettle. The HP 3301fdw’s laser speed and ADF finesse make it a late-game standout, especially for pros who prioritize text over photos.
Pick based on your workload—whether it’s 50 invites or 500 brochures—and you won’t be disappointed. Which one’s your cardstock soulmate? Let’s keep the conversation going—I’m all ears for your real-world takes.
