Officejet 8600
That model sounded familiar to me, so please read Reinstall HP Officejet 8600 using Mojave… - Apple Community. The salient point was that the exact model designation had to include the n911a part. Even deeper in my memory is a recollection that particular model needed a firmware update to work with AirPrint, so go back to HP's website and see if you can find it.
As for the LaserJet 1300n I'm not so sure, but I know it's one of HP's older ones that was built to last. If you don't get anywhere the last-ditch solution would be to purchase an AirPrint print server. A variety of them can be found at the end of Apple's About AirPrint document. For whatever reason Lantronix seems to have discontinued certain Xprintserver devices but they are readily available on the used market. That's what I would use if I had to.
works on Linux computer and on iPhone.
That's odd, and suggests it should certainly work with your Mac. Just be sure you are using its AirPrint driver.
If you research Apple's Support documentation you will eventually find an admonition to not install drivers from the manufacturer for AirPrint printers but try HP's EasyStart software VikingOSX suggested anyway.
now to my question: what printer company is Mac Friendly? and what printer model do you recommend. BTW: I'd like to keep things below $300, preferably below $159 USD
To answer that question, these days I have been specifying Brother printers. Although all printers are pretty much cheap disposable junk any more, Brother's have been the most trouble-free in my experience. They're very inexpensive and you are certain to find a variety of models within those cost constraints. Just be sure to get one that specifically indicates AirPrint.
