I don't know what you're looking for in printer features, but I can show you the way to significantly reduce the costs you're talking about. If you can find a printer that will use a Canon BCI-24 cartridge, then you're in bidness. Like it says, 5 cartridges for $7 (including shipping.)
http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trk...8&_nkw=BCI-24+
I use a Canon i450. I haven't had trouble with the pirate cartridges. If I do, then I'm gunna buy another old printer that uses this cartridge. I used to use another printer, and pay that $20 a cartridge. F that. May not be that cheap to get these printers now. I haven't been paying attention. Getting one of those printers (maybe 10-15 different models will use the cartridge) is the only way I know to get around the expenses you're concerned about.