How To Add Printer To iPad and Top 3 Printer Choices

Last Updated on August 11, 2023 by Ernests Embutnieks

Dealing with printers can be frustrating, especially if you are doing it for the first time. We created a guide on how to add printer to iPad, so you don’t have to waste any time.

The process is going to be easy for those who are using AirPrint-compatible printers. But don’t worry, if you don’t have a compatible printer, I’ve got some methods for you to help you out.

So, let’s dive in and check out how to add a printer to the iPad.

Connecting a Printer To an iPad

Before I begin, it is important to understand AirPrint and its compatibility. This will help you set up a printer more easily, as you’ll understand those terms. So, to avoid any confusion, let us take a look at AirPrint. 

What is Apple AirPrint Technology? 

AirPrint is a convenient feature that enables seamless printing without the need to install printer-specific drivers. It works wirelessly between compatible printers and iOS devices, allowing Apple users to enjoy a user-friendly and hassle-free printing experience.

Personally, I love this feature, as it works with Wi-Fi Direct and is powerful enough to make high-quality documents, emails, webpages, and photos from your iOS, iPad, or Mac devices.

AirPrint is great, but it isn’t as easy to use as it sounds. It’s a bit confusing instead, and it’s important for you to stick around. 

Now that you understand what AirPrint is, you may be wondering which printers are compatible with it and how to find out whether your printer is compatible. So, don’t worry! I’m also going to explain it.

AirPrint Compatible Printer

Here’s a list of iPad-friendly printers from various brands, along with some additional information about their features and compatibility:

HP Printers:

HP printers are known for their user-friendly features and reliable performance. 

HP offers a range of printers compatible with AirPrint, specifically designed for different applications. Here are some popular series:

1. Photosmart series: Ideal for printing photos from your iPad.
2. Envy series: Great for printing photos and general home use.
3. LaserJet series: Suitable for office use and high-volume printing.
4. OfficeJet series: Versatile printers for home or small office needs

Canon Printers

Canon printers are popular for their exceptional print quality and intuitive interfaces. Canon has a variety of models available, including multifunction printers for both photo and office printing.

Its Canon Pixma inkjet printers are some of my personal favorites and can be made AirPrint compatible by installing the most recent firmware update. 

Epson Printers

Epson printers are known for their versatility and advanced features. Epson provides several printer series that are compatible with AirPrint. Here are a few options:

1. WorkForce Series: Versatile printers that offer printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities.
2. Stylus series: Designed for high-quality photo printing
3. WorkForce Pro series: Efficient printers suitable for small businesses and offices
4. Artisan Series: Ideal for home users and professional photographers

Lexmark Printers

Lexmark offers a diverse range of AirPrint-compatible printers that come complete according to users’ needs. 

They have options for small, medium, and large workgroups, as well as dedicated photo printers for home users and professionals. Upgrading the printer’s firmware will ensure compatibility with the latest version of AirPrint.

Remember to choose a printer that meets your specific requirements, whether it’s for photo printing, office use, or general home printing. Additionally, always check for firmware updates to ensure seamless wireless printing from your iPad.

Related: Wireless Charging: When Will iPads Join?

Steps to Add a Printer to iPad

To make your iPad communicate with the printer, follow these steps:

1. Check your iOS or iPadOS version (Make sure it’s running on the latest software)
2. Check if your printer is AirPrint-compatible. If yes, then proceed.
3. Connect your iPad and your printer to Wi-Fi (Both your iPad and printer should be connected to the same Wi-Fi network)
4. Give your printer a few moments to join the network after powering it on
5. Go to the document or file item you want to print on your iPad
6. Open the application from which you want to print
7. Look for the Share or Actions button in the app (usually represented by a box with an arrow)
8. Tap on the Share or Actions button to access the printing options
9. Scroll down until you find the Print button. Note that not all apps support AirPrint, so check the app’s user guide if you can’t locate the print option
10. Select the “No Printer Selected” option and choose your AirPrint-compatible printer from the list
11. Decide how many copies you want to print
12. Finally, tap on the Print button.

That’s it! Your iPad will send the print job to your selected printer, and you should see your documents or items being printed shortly.

Common Tips To Use If Facing Problems

Users often report problems with AirPrint technology, and most of these problems have a very simple solution. 

So, If you’re also going through some issues, then let me add some useful tips for you. 

Here are some:

1. Check for Software Updates

Outdated software can create issues for you, so it’s recommended to update your iPad to the latest version of iPadOS. 

If you’re not using the latest software, you can update it. Go to Settings, then General. Proceed by selecting Software Update. Install the latest software update available, and you’re good to go. Pretty easy, right?

2. Bring the Printer a Bit Closer to Your Modem

Sometimes interference, like walls, tables, etc., between the modem and printer can create problems with the signals. 

In that case, you can place the printer near the modem to receive Wi-Fi signals accurately.

3. Check Wi-Fi

Yeah! This is quite important because, without a proper Wi-Fi connection, there’ll be no sort of communication between the devices. 

Keep in mind that AirPrint does not support public networks such as mobile hotspots, Bluetooth, or cellular data connections such as 4G or 5G.

Therefore, AirPrinting only works through WiFi. 

4. Turn off Airplane Mode

The AirPrint feature doesn’t work when Airplane mode is turned on. 

So, it’s better to turn off Airplane Mode if you’ve accidentally turned it on. Otherwise, your phone might start feeling a little too high-flying and start demanding in-flight snacks. You get the joke, right? 

5. Connect Devices to the Same Network

To make AirPrint work for you, it’s important to connect all of these devices to the same network. AirPrint technology only works on Wi-Fi Direct. 

So no separate Wi-Fi. Otherwise, your devices might start having arguments like, “Hey, you’re on the wrong network! I can’t print your document because I’m on a different Wi-Fi wavelength!” Let’s not create this technological sibling rivalry.

6. Wait for a While and Try Again

Yeah, if you’ve tried everything and are still facing issues, you need to take a break now. Turn off your printer for some time, reboot the modem, or simply restart the iPad. 

Have a short break, read some of my jokes or blog posts, then go through the whole process. I’m sure it will work for you as well.

Best Printers For iPad (Apple AirPrint)

Now, that you have seen a lot about setting up, it’s time for me to tell you about some printers that are totally worth buying. I’ve used them, and they’re still in our studio. 

1. HP OfficeJet 250 

The HP OfficeJet 250 is a fantastic portable printer that I personally use during my work. 

From what I’ve observed until now, it delivers impressive performance in a compact package. Its ability to print, scan, and copy on the go makes it a versatile choice for professionals and students alike.

With fast printing speeds and high-quality output, this printer ensures that your documents and photos look crisp and professional.

One downside of the HP OfficeJet 250 is its limited paper-handling capacity. It has a relatively small input tray. Also, it doesn’t have a USB cable included.

Pros

1. Excellent printing quality
2. Fast and productive
3. Solid design

Cons 

1. Limited paper-handling
2. Doesn’t include a USB cable

2. Canon Pixma iX6820

The Canon Pixma iX6820 is a powerful printer that excels at producing high-quality prints, especially when it comes to documents and photos. The color accuracy and sharp details make it a popular choice among photographers and graphic designers

The printing speed on this device is fast, and not just fast, but also convenient and efficient. 

Additionally, what I love is that it’s so small that it could fit inside your car. So, if you’re a traveler, then this printer will be a solid pick for you.

Pros

1. Superior photo prints
2. The design is small but sturdy
3. Good for travelers
4. Reliable print speeds

Cons

1. The quick-draining tri-color cartridge

3. Epson EcoTank ET-3760 Wireless

The Epson EcoTank ET-3760 Wireless Printer is an excellent choice that combines high-quality printing with an environmentally friendly design. This printer is unique because it uses ink instead of traditional ink cartridges, which helps reduce both cost and environmental waste.

The ET-3760’s wireless capabilities allow for easy printing from a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets. Furthermore, the prints are fairly quick, and the automatic double-sided printing features increase productivity.

One thing I did not like about the EcoTank ET-3760 was its size in comparison to other printers. It may take up more space on your desk or in your office, so it’s important to consider your available space before making a purchase.

Pros

1. Ink tanks are used instead of cartridges.
2. It both saves money and reduces waste.
3. High-quality printing

Cons

1. Big size

How to Find Out If Your Printer is Compatible

Those printers that show compatibility with Apple AirPrint technology are what we call Apple AirPrint-compatible printers. 

It’s a useful feature that many printers support now, but if you are unsure about your printer and want to check whether it’s compatible or not, then you’ll have to do it manually by checking AirPrint devices on Apple Support. 

I’ll recommend you visit this site and press Ctrl + F simultaneously, then write the model name on your own. If the printer is listed, then you’ve got a compatible printer; if not, then you’ll need to go through my next section, which covers how you add a printer to the iPad via third-party apps. 

Yeah, you can do it, and I’m going to cover it for you. So let’s move. 

Setting up Printers on an iPad via Third-Party Apps

Now, if you’re reading this section, I’m sure your printer isn’t compatible, and it isn’t a big problem because we have cool new apps that work incredibly well for printing. Not as well as Apple AirPrint, but they do get the job done in a very precise manner. 

Here are the steps to set up a printer using third-party apps:

1. Launch the Printer Pro app on your iPad.
2. Select the desired category (Contacts, Emails, Files, Web Pages, Images) to locate the file you want to print.
3. Tap on the printer button, usually located in the upper right corner of the screen, to access the print options.
4. If it’s your first time, you need to do the initial setup. Look for a Printer Setup or Add Printer option in the app’s menu or settings, and follow the instructions to connect to a printer on your iPad’s network.
5. After setting up, you can customize printing settings such as paper size, number of copies, etc. Now, look for a Printer Options or Print Settings button to access these settings.
6. If you want to preview the document before printing, check for a Preview button or an option to view the print preview.
7. After finalizing the settings, select the Print option to send the print job to the selected printer.

This is how it’s done.

Third-Party Apps for iPad Printing 

So, If you’re looking to connect your iPad to a printer that’s connected to a Mac or PC, there are handy apps like Printopia and PrintCentral that can make your life easier. 

These apps allow seamless communication between your iPad and the printer, whether it’s connected via a wired or wireless connection.

1. Print Central App (Recommended App)

Print Central App can help with your printing and make things easier if you’re printer isn’t AirPrint compatible. 

Now, here’s the cool part: while both apps get the job done, Print Central takes it a step further by allowing your iPad to communicate with both Macs and PCs. So, if you have a mixed-tech environment at home or work, Print Central has got your back!

With “WePrint”, an open client software, you can get prints from any connected machine, whether it’s connected through USB, Bluetooth, or wireless connections. 

2. Printopia App

On the other hand, if you’re an Apple fanboy and rocking a Mac, Printopia is your go-to app. It’s designed specifically for Mac users, ensuring a smooth and efficient printing experience. 

Check out this video to learn more about it

No matter which app you choose, printing from your iPad will become a breeze, saving you time and hassle. 

FAQs

Final Thought

The iPad, being smart and convenient, is taking the place of a laptop; therefore, to accurately take the laptop’s place, it’s better to have features like a laptop. 

I personally think having an iPad is good, and AirPrint is also fantastic, but AirPrint isn’t available on all printers, so it can be a bit frustrating. 

Third-party apps are good, but I’m not a big fan of them. I wish Apple would allow AirPrint support for all printers. What do you say about this?  

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