Why Printers Jam (And How to Avoid It)
Paper jams aren't random - they have specific causes. Understanding them helps you choose better printers and prevent issues:
Common Causes
- • Worn or dusty pickup rollers
- • Misaligned paper guides
- • Wrong paper weight/type
- • Humidity-damaged paper
- • Overfilled paper trays
Anti-Jam Features
- • Straight paper path design
- • Multi-sensor paper detection
- • Automatic paper thickness adjustment
- • Self-cleaning rollers
- • Wider paper capacity tolerance
Most Reliable Printers for 2026
Most Reliable Overall
Brother HL-L2460DW
Monochrome laser - built to last
$150-180
Why It Rarely Jams
- • Straight paper path minimizes bending
- • Robust pickup mechanism rated for 30,000 pages/month
- • Works with paper from 60-163 gsm
- • Brother's proven reliability track record
Best for: High-volume black & white printing - offices, students, anyone who prints a lot of documents.
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Best Color Laser
Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw
Color laser all-in-one
$400-450
Reliability Features
- • UFR II LT print driver handles complex documents smoothly
- • 50-sheet ADF with ultrasonic multi-feed detection
- • Handles mixed paper sizes in single job
- • Built-in auto-recovery from minor jams
Best for: Small businesses needing reliable color printing with minimal downtime.
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Best Inkjet
Epson EcoTank ET-3850
Tank inkjet with ADF
$350-400
Why EcoTank Models Jam Less
- • PrecisionCore printhead eliminates cartridge-related jams
- • No cartridge alignment issues
- • 30-sheet ADF with reliable feed mechanism
- • Rear paper feed option for thick media
Best for: Families and home offices wanting color printing without the typical inkjet hassles.
Check Price on AmazonPrevent Jams on Any Printer
Do This
- ✓ Fan paper before loading to separate sheets
- ✓ Store paper flat in dry location
- ✓ Adjust paper guides snugly (not too tight)
- ✓ Use recommended paper weight
- ✓ Clean rollers monthly with lint-free cloth
Don't Do This
- ✗ Overfill paper tray beyond capacity line
- ✗ Mix different paper types in one tray
- ✗ Use damp, wrinkled, or torn paper
- ✗ Force paper into tight guides
- ✗ Ignore "paper low" warnings
When a Jam Does Happen
- 1. Turn off printer and wait 30 seconds
- 2. Open all access doors (check manual for locations)
- 3. Pull paper gently in direction of paper path - never against it
- 4. Check for small torn pieces - they cause repeat jams
- 5. Close doors and run a test print
See our complete paper jam guide for model-specific instructions.
Reliability Comparison
| Printer | Type | Monthly Duty | Paper Handling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2460DW | Mono Laser | 30,000 pages | Excellent |
| Canon MF656Cdw | Color Laser | 30,000 pages | Excellent |
| Epson ET-3850 | Tank Inkjet | 5,000 pages | Very Good |