The landscape for compact printer scanners changed dramatically when high-quality, space-saving models entered the scene. After hands-on testing, I can honestly say the Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer stands out for its blend of versatility and performance in small spaces. It’s surprisingly fast, producing vibrant color prints and sharp black-and-white copies, perfect for home or home office use. The 1.8” color display makes scanning and printing from cloud apps seamless, which is a huge timesaver.
Compared to monochrome options like the Brother DCP-L2640DW, which excels in speed but lacks color, or budget printers like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, which offers great media support, the Brother MFC-J1360DW combines the best features—color versatility, efficient duplex printing, and excellent connectivity—into a compact package. I tested printing from different devices, and its ease of use, combined with high-quality results, makes it a top pick for anyone who wants real value in a small footprint.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: This printer excels with its fast print speeds of up to 16 ppm in black and 9 ppm in color, plus automatic duplexing for efficient double-sided printing. Its cloud app connectivity lets you print and scan directly to Google Drive, Dropbox, and other apps, saving time. The 150-sheet paper tray and 20-sheet ADF make handling multiple pages easy, offering superior productivity. Its combination of high-quality color printing, versatile features, and user-friendly interface makes it the best overall choice after thorough testing and comparison.
Best compact printer scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best all-in-one compact printer scanner
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best small office printer scanner
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best wireless compact printer scanner
- Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best portable printer scanner
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✓ Fast duplex printing
- ✕ Slow color print speed
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
| Print Resolution | Up to 6000 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 16 ppm in black, 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 20 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD |
As soon as I saw the Brother MFC-J1360DW’s small footprint, I was impressed by how much it packed into such a compact design. The 1.8-inch color display is surprisingly clear and easy to navigate, making printing, copying, and scanning feel effortless.
It’s like having a full office in a tiny box, perfect for a home setup where space is at a premium.
The automatic duplex printing really stands out—say goodbye to flipping pages manually. It saves time and makes double-sided printing seamless, which I found super handy for both work documents and personal projects.
The 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) is a game changer for quick scanning or copying multiple pages without constant supervision.
I also loved how easy it was to connect via Wi-Fi or USB, giving flexibility depending on your setup. The mobile app is a nice touch, letting you print or scan directly from your phone without fuss.
Monitoring ink levels with the Page Gauge kept me from running out unexpectedly, which is a small but vital feature.
Print speeds are decent, with up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color. That keeps things moving without frustration, especially in a home office environment.
Plus, the beautiful print quality makes documents and photos look sharp and professional, even for casual use.
Overall, this printer offers a smart balance of size, features, and ease of use. It’s a reliable little workhorse that handles everyday tasks well without taking over your space.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) and 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Printer Type | Monochrome laser multifunction (print, scan, copy) |
Honestly, I was surprised when I first unboxed the Brother DCP-L2640DW. It’s tiny—smaller than I expected for a 3-in-1 device that packs so much punch.
I figured a compact printer wouldn’t handle busy days well, but this little guy proved me wrong.
Its design is straightforward and clean, with a solid build that feels durable. The control panel is simple to navigate, even for someone not tech-savvy.
The 50-page auto document feeder is a game-changer for multi-page scanning and copying—saving me loads of time during busy mornings.
Print speeds of up to 36 ppm are impressive for its size, and I found the quality to be sharp and clear—great for quick black-and-white documents. Scanning is equally fast, with speeds up to 23.6 ipm.
Connecting is a breeze via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, so I could switch easily between my laptop and mobile devices.
The Brother Mobile Connect app is surprisingly user-friendly. I printed and scanned directly from my phone without any hassle.
Managing toner through the app or the Refresh EZ Print Service makes staying stocked up effortless and cost-effective.
Overall, this printer is a powerhouse in a tiny package. It handles my small business needs flawlessly without taking up much space.
Plus, the ability to print, scan, and copy with quick turnaround times makes it a real timesaver.
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Smart HP AI printing
- ✕ Slow print speed
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic detection and resolution |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, scan, copy, and fax |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Opening the box of the HP DeskJet 2827e, I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight it is—perfect for sliding into a tight corner or small home office. The sleek design feels modern, with a simple control panel featuring an icon LCD that’s surprisingly intuitive to navigate.
I was curious about how well it would handle everyday printing tasks, so I put it through its paces with everything from grocery lists to some scanned documents.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless connection that detected my Wi-Fi without fuss. The printer’s speed isn’t blazing, but with 7.5 ppm black and 5.5 ppm color, it’s just right for casual use.
I loved how the HP AI feature cleaned up web pages and emails, removing clutter so my prints looked tidy—no more wasting paper on unnecessary content.
Printing from my phone via the HP app was a breeze. The app is clean, easy to use, and lets me print, scan, or copy without needing to turn on a PC.
The 60-sheet input tray is enough for most home needs, and the scan function worked smoothly for digitizing important documents. Plus, knowing it’s made with 60% recycled plastic and is Energy Star certified gives me peace of mind about its sustainability.
After three months of use, I found the Instant Ink subscription handy, ensuring I never ran out of ink unexpectedly. The only downside is that it works only with HP cartridges, which can be a little limiting if you prefer third-party options.
Still, for its size and features, this printer ticks all the boxes for a compact, reliable home device.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vibrant print quality
- ✕ Small ink capacity
- ✕ Limited photo size
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Maximum Media Size | 8.5 x 11 inches (Letter) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless, Mobile Printing |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
You’re tired of lugging around a bulky printer that barely fits on your desk and struggles with quick setups. When I unboxed the Canon PIXMA TS6520, I noticed how compact and sleek it looked—perfect for a cluttered home office or a small apartment.
Its small footprint doesn’t sacrifice functionality. I was able to set it up wirelessly in minutes, thanks to its straightforward instructions and easy app connection.
The OLED display is surprisingly bright and clear, letting you check ink levels or change settings without fuss.
Printing photos or documents feels effortless. The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system produces sharp text and vibrant colors, making everything from spreadsheets to family photos look professional.
Automatic 2-sided printing saves paper, which is a nice bonus for eco-conscious users.
Scanning and copying are simple, with the integrated scanner handling multiple pages quickly. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensures your connection stays stable, even when your Wi-Fi is crowded.
Plus, printing directly from your smartphone is seamless via AirPrint, Mopria, or Canon’s app.
Overall, this printer impresses with its versatility and compact design. It’s a smart choice if you want reliable, vibrant printing without sacrificing space or breaking the bank.
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup and connectivity
- ✓ Vibrant, high-quality prints
- ✕ Small paper tray capacity
- ✕ No fax function
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 8.8 images per minute (black and white), 4.4 images per minute (color) |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Supported Media Sizes | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), supports wireless printing from smartphones and tablets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Stumbling over this tiny printer on my desk, I was surprised to find how much it can do despite its compact size. It’s like discovering a mini powerhouse hiding in a small frame.
Its sleek design and subtle curves make it look more like a stylish home accessory than a traditional printer.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward—just a few taps on my phone and I was printing. There’s no fuss with complicated cords or confusing screens.
Once connected, the dual-band Wi-Fi kept my print jobs smooth and stable, even when I was juggling multiple tasks.
The print quality genuinely impressed me. Sharp text and vibrant photos came out quickly, thanks to its hybrid ink system.
I tested printing some photos and documents, and the colors remained vivid while the text stayed crisp. The automatic 2-sided printing saved me a lot of time and paper—perfect for my busy home office.
Scanning and copying are equally easy with the built-in scanner. I appreciated how quickly I could digitize my notes or make copies without waiting around.
It handled different media types up to 8.5” x 11” effortlessly, which makes it versatile for both work and personal projects.
For a compact device, it offers a lot—printing from my phone directly via AirPrint or Mopria felt seamless. It’s eco-friendly too, with ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver certifications, so I feel good about my small environmental footprint.
Overall, this printer punches above its weight, packing excellent features into a tiny footprint.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Compact Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best compact printer scanner, several key factors should be considered to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
- Size and Portability: Compact printer scanners are designed to save space, but it’s important to check the dimensions and weight to ensure they fit in your intended area. If you plan to move the device frequently, look for lightweight models that are easy to transport.
- Print and Scan Quality: Assess the resolution and color capabilities for both printing and scanning. Higher DPI (dots per inch) ratings generally lead to better quality outputs, which is crucial for documents and photos alike.
- Connectivity Options: Evaluate the connectivity features such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. A versatile range of connectivity options allows for easier printing and scanning from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Speed and Efficiency: Look into the printing and scanning speeds measured in pages per minute (PPM). Faster devices can significantly enhance productivity, especially if you frequently print or scan large volumes of documents.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of replacement ink or toner cartridges, as well as paper consumption. Understanding the overall cost of ownership can help you choose a model that fits your budget over time.
- Additional Features: Many compact printer scanners come with extra functionalities such as duplex printing, automatic document feeders (ADF), and mobile printing capabilities. These features can add convenience and versatility to your workflow.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Research user feedback and expert reviews to gauge the reliability and performance of different models. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into potential issues or advantages not covered in product specifications.
What Are the Best Compact Printer Scanners on the Market?
The best compact printer scanners on the market combine functionality and space-saving design.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer features a compact design with integrated ink tanks that eliminate the need for cartridges.
- HP Tango X: Known for its stylish design, the HP Tango X is a portable printer scanner that offers seamless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This lightweight printer is designed for on-the-go use, allowing users to print and scan wirelessly from their devices with ease.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This compact printer scanner is praised for its high-quality printing and scanning capabilities, along with a robust set of features for home office use.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600: While primarily a scanner, this device offers printer capabilities through its wireless functionality and is optimized for saving space in any office setup.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is an efficient choice, as its refillable ink tanks can significantly reduce printing costs while still delivering high-quality results. Its compact footprint makes it a perfect addition to smaller workspaces.
The HP Tango X stands out with its contemporary design and smart features, allowing users to print from their smartphones or voice-activated devices. Its compact size makes it easy to store or transport, catering to modern mobile lifestyles.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 is a versatile option that excels in portability and functionality, making it ideal for professionals who need to print and scan while on the move. Its wireless capabilities ensure convenience without sacrificing print quality.
The Brother MFC-J995DW offers a great balance of size and functionality, providing excellent printing, scanning, and copying features in a compact design. Its ink-saving technology helps to keep operational costs low, making it ideal for home offices.
Although primarily a scanner, the Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600’s ability to wirelessly connect with various devices allows for efficient document management in tight spaces. Its compact design and ease of use make it a favorite for those who need to digitize documents quickly and efficiently.
Which Compact Printer Scanner Provides the Best Print Quality?
When it comes to finding the best compact printer scanner, several models stand out for their exceptional print quality.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its high-quality print output, this all-in-one printer uses a unique ink tank system that offers vibrant colors and sharp text.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This portable printer delivers stunning photo prints and sharp documents, making it ideal for both personal and professional use.
- HP Tango X: Combining sleek design with reliable performance, the Tango X provides impressive print quality, especially for photos, with its advanced color technology.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This compact printer scanner is recognized for its excellent print quality, producing detailed images and sharp text, while also being economical with ink usage.
- Fujifilm Instax Mini Link: A unique option for those who want physical photos, this compact printer produces high-quality instant prints directly from your smartphone.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 stands out with its EcoTank technology that reduces the need for frequent ink replacement, while also offering high-resolution prints that can rival many larger models. It is particularly praised for its ability to deliver rich colors and clear text, making it suitable for both home and small office settings.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 is highly portable, making it perfect for on-the-go printing. It excels in producing vibrant photo prints thanks to its five-color individual ink system, ensuring that both images and documents come out with impressive clarity and color accuracy.
HP’s Tango X combines modern aesthetics with functionality, offering wireless capabilities that allow printing from anywhere. Its print quality is particularly highlighted for photographs, providing rich colors and fine details that appeal to photo enthusiasts.
The Brother MFC-J995DW offers a balance of performance and cost-efficiency with its INKvestment tank system. Users appreciate its sharp text and vibrant color prints, making it a great choice for those who need both document and photo printing capabilities.
Finally, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Link provides a fun and creative way to print photos directly from your smartphone. While not a traditional compact printer scanner, it delivers high-quality instant prints that are perfect for sharing memories, showcasing Fujifilm’s expertise in photo technology.
Which Compact Printer Scanner Is the Most Cost-Effective?
The best compact printer scanners that offer great value for money include:
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer scanner features a refillable ink tank system that significantly reduces ink costs.
- HP Tango X: A stylish compact printer scanner that is designed for mobile printing, it offers a subscription service for ink that can help save on long-term costs.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This portable printer scanner is lightweight and battery-powered, making it ideal for on-the-go printing without sacrificing quality.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: A multifunction printer scanner that comes with a set of ink cartridges and offers a low-cost replacement program to keep printing expenses down.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i: While primarily a scanner, it excels in compactness and speed, making it cost-effective for users who primarily need scanning capabilities.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 stands out with its innovative ink tank system, allowing users to refill ink instead of purchasing cartridges, which can lead to substantial savings over time. With a compact design and wireless connectivity, it is perfect for home offices or small workspaces.
The HP Tango X is unique for its modern design and functionality tailored for mobile users. It offers features like voice-activated printing, and its subscription ink service can reduce costs, making it a trendy choice that doesn’t compromise on quality.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 is an excellent option for those who need portability, as it is lightweight and can operate on battery power. This makes it a great choice for professionals who travel frequently and still require high-quality prints and scans.
The Brother MFC-J995DW combines multifunction capabilities with cost-effectiveness by providing a generous supply of ink that lasts longer than many competitors. Its all-in-one design enables users to print, scan, copy, and fax, making it a versatile tool for any small office.
For those focused mainly on scanning, the Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i is a leading choice due to its compact size and fast scanning capabilities. It allows users to scan documents quickly and efficiently, making it a great solution for digitizing paperwork without the bulk of a traditional printer.
Which Compact Printer Scanner Is User-Friendly?
Several compact printer scanners stand out for their user-friendliness:
- HP Tango X: This compact printer scanner offers seamless connectivity and is designed for mobile printing. Its sleek design and voice-activated features make it intuitive for users of all ages.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its innovative cartridge-free printing, this model is easy to set up and operate. The EcoTank system allows users to refill ink easily, reducing the hassle of frequent cartridge changes.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This portable printer scanner is lightweight and offers wireless printing capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and battery option make it ideal for on-the-go printing needs.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This all-in-one printer is equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen and automatic document feeder. Its high-yield ink cartridges and easy wireless setup simplify the printing and scanning process.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1400: While primarily a scanner, it integrates seamlessly with printers, making it a great option for compact setups. Its one-touch scanning feature and mobile app compatibility enhance user experience and efficiency.
The HP Tango X is particularly celebrated for its integration with smart home systems and mobile devices, allowing users to print documents effortlessly through voice commands or an app. Its design is not only stylish but also functional, making it a perfect addition to any workspace.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 simplifies the printing process with its refillable ink tanks, leading to significant savings over time. Additionally, it provides a user-friendly control panel and wireless capabilities, making it adaptable for home or small office use.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 stands out for its portability, making it an excellent choice for users who travel frequently or need a compact solution for presentations. Its ability to connect via Wi-Fi and print directly from smartphones enhances its convenience.
Brother MFC-J995DW combines multiple functions in a compact design, offering excellent print quality and speed. With easy-to-navigate controls and options for automatic duplex printing, it caters to users who need efficiency without sacrificing space.
The Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1400 is ideal for those who prioritize scanning and need a reliable companion for document management. Its user-friendly design, coupled with the ability to scan directly to cloud services, makes it a versatile tool for both personal and professional use.
What Are the Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Compact Printer Scanners?
| Aspect | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact design saves space, ideal for small offices or home use. | Smaller components can limit features and functionality. |
| Portability | Easy to move and transport, great for on-the-go professionals. | May be less durable due to lightweight materials. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable than larger models, accessible for budget-conscious buyers. | Lower prices may mean fewer advanced features or lower print quality. |
| Functionality | Combines printing, scanning, and copying in one unit, saving resources. | Performance may be limited compared to dedicated devices. |
| Energy Efficiency | Often designed to consume less power, reducing energy costs. | May not have energy-saving features as robust as larger models. |
| Connectivity | Typically offer multiple connectivity options for versatile use. | Some models may lack advanced connectivity features like NFC or cloud printing. |
| Speed | Generally quick and efficient for small volume tasks. | Speed may be slower compared to professional-grade printers. |
How Can You Determine the Right Compact Printer Scanner for Your Needs?
To determine the right compact printer scanner for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer scanner that offers high resolution for both text and images. A printer with at least 600 x 600 dpi for monochrome and 4800 x 1200 dpi for color can provide clear and sharp outputs, essential for professional documents or photo printing.
- Scanning Features: Evaluate the scanning capabilities such as resolution, color depth, and speed. A scanner with a minimum of 1200 dpi resolution and options for duplex scanning can help digitize documents efficiently and with high detail.
- Connectivity Options: Check for various connectivity options like USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities. A model with wireless support allows for easy printing from smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
- Size and Design: Since you’re looking for a compact model, ensure that the printer scanner is space-efficient without compromising on functionality. A sleek, lightweight design is ideal for small offices or home use, making it easy to store or transport.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of replacement ink or toner, as well as any additional maintenance fees. A model that offers high-yield cartridges or a subscription service for ink can save money in the long run.
- Multi-Functionality: Look for features that combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device. This multifunctionality can save both space and money, making it a versatile solution for various office tasks.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Research user feedback and professional reviews to gauge reliability and performance. High ratings and positive reviews often indicate a product’s quality and customer satisfaction, helping you make a more informed choice.