Yes, you can use both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections with the same printer. Most modern printers support simultaneous network connectivity modes. Since you didn't mention what type of wired connection you are considering (Ethernet or USB), I'm going to assume you mean the former ...
... and in that case:
- Leave the printer connected to your Wi-Fi network – this ensures your iPhone and other wireless devices can still access it. However, if your printer is AirPrint capable, your iPhone can still use AirPrint over an Ethernet connection, so Wi-Fi would no longer be necessary.
- Connect the printer to your router using Ethernet.
- On your Mac, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners, and:
- If the printer appears twice (once as Bonjour/AirPrint and once as an IP or network printer), choose the one with the IP address or the one listed as IPPS or Line Printer Daemon (LPD). That’s the wired connection.
- You can rename this entry (like “Printer - Wired”) for clarity.
Your Mac should now prefer the faster (Ethernet) path when available.
On the other hand, if your printer doesn't have Ethernet, but supports USB:
- Connect the printer to your MacBook Pro with a USB cable.
- Also keep it on your Wi-Fi network.
- On macOS, your printer may show up as two separate entries—USB and network. Use the USB one for faster prints.
