Fastest Way to Connect Your Printer to Mac: Wireless or Wired

Updated at: 27/06/2025

Connecting your printer to your Mac shouldn't be a hassle. This guide compares the speed and ease of wired versus wireless printer connections for Macs. We'll walk you through both methods, highlighting the pros and cons to help you choose the fastest and most reliable option for your setup. Whether you prioritize speed or convenience, find the perfect solution for seamless printing. Let's get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Printer and Mac

    • Ensure your printer is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.
    Ensure your printer is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac.
    Prepare Printer and Mac

  2. Access Printer Settings

    • Open System Preferences on your Mac (Apple icon in the top-left corner).
    • Select 'Printers & Scanners'.
    Select 'Printers & Scanners'. Select 'Printers & Scanners'.
    Access Printer Settings

  3. Add Wireless Printer (Auto-Detect)

    • Click the '+' symbol (Add Printer) in the lower-left corner.
    • If your wireless printer is detected, select it. The printer's name, location, and use (AirPrint) will auto-populate. You can rename the printer if desired, and click 'Add' in the lower-right corner.
    If your wireless printer is detected, select it. The printer's name, location, and use (AirPrint) will auto-populate. You can rename the printer if desired, and click 'Add' in the lower-right corner. If your wireless printer is detected, select it. The printer's name, location, and use (AirPrint) will auto-populate. You can rename the printer if desired, and click 'Add' in the lower-right corner.
    Add Wireless Printer (Auto-Detect)

  4. Add Wireless Printer (Manual IP)

    • Click the '+' symbol (Add Printer) in the lower-left corner.
    • If your wireless printer is NOT detected, select the 'IP' option in the Add Printer dialog. Find your printer's IP address (usually in the printer's network settings).
    • Manually type the IP address into the dialog box and click 'Add'.
    Manually type the IP address into the dialog box and click 'Add'. Manually type the IP address into the dialog box and click 'Add'. Manually type the IP address into the dialog box and click 'Add'.
    Add Wireless Printer (Manual IP)

  5. Add Wired Printer

    • Plug the printer into your Mac via USB. The Mac should automatically detect and set up the printer. If not, restart your Mac.
    For wired printers: Plug the printer into your Mac via USB. The Mac should automatically detect and set up the printer. If not, restart your Mac.
    Add Wired Printer
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Tips

  • If the printer doesn't automatically configure, restarting the Mac may resolve the issue.
  • Printer IP addresses are usually found in the printer's network settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Printer Selection

Reason: Selecting the wrong printer model during the setup process or choosing a printer that isn't compatible with your Mac's operating system.
Solution: Double-check the printer model and ensure it's compatible with macOS and that you've selected the correct printer from the list of available devices.

2. Network Connectivity Issues

Reason: Problems with your Wi-Fi connection, incorrect network settings on either the printer or the Mac, or the printer being offline can prevent successful connection.
Solution: Ensure your Wi-Fi is working, verify correct network credentials on both devices, and check if the printer is powered on and connected to the network.

FAQs

My printer isn't showing up in my Mac's printer list after connecting. What should I do?
First, ensure your printer is turned on and connected to your network (wireless) or computer (wired). Then, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners. Click the '+' button to add a printer. Your Mac might automatically detect it. If not, you might need to select your printer model manually from the list or use the 'Add Printer...' option. Check your printer's manual for specific instructions if needed.
Which connection method (wired or wireless) is faster?
Generally, a wired connection (USB) will be faster and more reliable than a wireless connection, especially for large print jobs. Wireless connections can be affected by network congestion and distance. However, the speed difference might be negligible for small, everyday print tasks. Wired is faster, wireless is more convenient.
My wireless printer keeps disconnecting. What can I cause?
Several factors can cause wireless printer disconnections. Check if your router is working correctly and your printer is within range. Network interference from other devices, a weak Wi-Fi signal, or outdated printer drivers can also be culprits. Try restarting your router, printer, and Mac. Update your printer's firmware and drivers for the best performance. If the problem persists, contact your printer's manufacturer for support.