Several brand name printer manufacturers market models with refillable ink tanks nowadays that represent a substantial savings in ink cost over cartridges but the printers themselves cost a fair bit more than typical big box store bargain printers. If you need/want a printer that prints on both sides look one that says "Duplex".
As to reliability and lifespan I've gone through 4 printers in 4 different brands so far, most averaging about 2 years of service. The first was a entry level HP printer/scanner/copier. It was the simplest to operate of all and lasted the longest at 3 years.The scanner went out on it but the printer still worked.
Using a Cannon 3 way now I bought on sale for $19 at Walmart a couple of months back. Its already more than paid for itself printing out coupons. Each ink cartridge though cost more than the printer did.
