Hey there Bree,
Yor Surface 11 probably uses an ARM processor. Now, when it comes to printers, it's all about whether the maker offers ARM64 drivers. A lot of older printers, like the Canon MF656cdw and MF3010, just have x64 drivers, which won't play nicely with ARM devices.
Surface devices usually get drivers through Windows Update or use universal print stuff. If your printer lacks an ARM64 driver, Windows can't just install it.
Here are some printers that works well with your Surface 11.
Keep an eye out for printers that work with Mopria or Microsoft Universal Print. These let you print without needing special drivers from the printer company. Lots of newer HP and Epson printers do this.For example:
HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw
Epson EcoTank ET-2400
Canon PIXMA G4210 (it supports Mopria and wireless printing)
First, see if your printer maker has ARM64 drivers on their site.
If not, pick a printer that says it works with Windows 11 on ARM or has Mopria certification (check out mopria.org).
When you can, go wireless or use Universal Print.
If you need to print offline, be sure the printer has Wi-Fi Direct or USB printing with ARM64 drivers.
Hope this clears things up.
Rez