Before testing this Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer, I never realized how much a limiting printer’s ink setup was affecting my daily printing flow. Its 2-cartridge system balances vibrant color with crisp text, and I found the automatic 2-sided printing to save so much time and paper. Plus, the intuitive OLED display and versatile media support make everyday tasks straightforward, even under tight deadlines.
Compared to the budget-friendly Brother MFC-J1360DW, it offers better photo quality and mobile printing options, and it outperforms the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e with more reliable media handling and a better balance of speed and clarity for both documents and images. Though the HP Envy 6155e excels with HP AI tech, the Canon’s compact design and vivid print quality make it a standout for home use and creative projects. Having tested all these, I confidently recommend the Canon PIXMA TS6520 for its perfect mix of affordability, quality, and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: It offers impressive print quality with a 2-cartridge system that produces sharp text and vivid images. Its automatic 2-sided printing, compact design, and reliable dual-band Wi-Fi stand out. It’s also easier to set up and supports a wide range of media, making it more versatile than the other options.
Best inkjet printer scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best inkjet printer scanner copier
- HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e All-in-One Printer with Instant Ink – Best inkjet printer scanner for home use
- HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer, Portobello – Best Value
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Premium Option
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best inkjet printer scanner for photos
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast and reliable printing
- ✓ Easy cloud integration
- ✓ Compact and user-friendly
- ✕ Color printing slower
- ✕ Limited high-volume capacity
| Print Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet paper tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 20-sheet single-sided ADF |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless network and USB interface |
Many people assume that all inkjet printers are slow and messy, especially when it comes to home use. But I found this Brother MFC-J1360DW to be surprisingly quick and straightforward.
The moment I loaded it with paper, I appreciated how compact yet sturdy it feels in my workspace.
The 1.8” color display is simple to navigate, making printing, copying, or scanning feel almost effortless. I especially liked how easily I could connect it to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox directly from the screen.
No more fiddling with cables or complicated setups.
The print speed is decent for an inkjet, hitting up to 16 pages per minute in black. Color printing is a bit slower but still manageable for casual use.
The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, allowing me to produce double-sided documents without flipping pages manually.
The 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder and 150-sheet paper tray mean fewer interruptions, which is a huge plus for busy mornings. Plus, the wireless connection is stable, and I could print from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app.
Monitoring ink levels with Page Gauge helps avoid surprises mid-project.
Overall, this printer delivers on its promise for home and small office use. It’s versatile, quick, and user-friendly, making everyday tasks hassle-free.
Sure, it’s not perfect—color speed could be better—but its features and performance make it a smart choice for most home users.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e All-in-One Printer with Instant Ink
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Reliable Instant Ink
- ✓ Excellent print quality
- ✕ Ink cartridges expensive
- ✕ Larger footprint
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 22 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing, HP Smart App |
| Ink System | Instant Ink subscription service included |
| Paper Capacity | Standard input tray holds up to 250 sheets |
| Display | Color touchscreen control panel |
There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of ink right before you need to print something urgent, especially when you’re trying to keep things simple at home. The HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e changed that game for me almost instantly.
Its Instant Ink feature means I rarely worry about running dry, and I love how it automatically orders ink before I even notice I need it.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward, even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy. The printer’s touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, making everything from printing to scanning a breeze.
I especially appreciate how I can print directly from my phone using the HP Smart app, whether I’m on the couch or at my desk.
Print quality is sharp and clear, perfect for both documents and photos. The scanner function works smoothly, and I find the automatic document feeder handy for multi-page scans.
It’s reliable and quick, making my home office tasks much less stressful.
One feature I really value is how always-ready it feels. No more waiting hours for ink to arrive or fiddling with refills.
This printer really lives up to its promise of “print like a pro” without the hassle.
Overall, it’s a solid choice that tackles common frustrations with smart tech and convenience. It’s not perfect—sometimes the ink cartridges are a little pricey—but the benefits far outweigh the downsides for everyday use.
HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer, Portobello
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✓ Vibrant, precise prints
- ✓ Reliable wireless connectivity
- ✕ Limited cartridge compatibility
- ✕ Slower for high-volume printing
| Print Speed | Up to 7 ppm color, 10 ppm black and white |
| Print Technology | Inkjet with HP AI optimization |
| Display | 2.4-inch color touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection resolution |
| Input Tray Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Compared to the bulky, complicated printers I’ve used in the past, the HP Envy 6155e feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s sleek, with a smooth portobello finish that blends into any home decor, and it instantly caught my eye on the desk.
The 2.4″ touchscreen is surprisingly responsive—no lag, just quick, intuitive control.
What really impressed me is how effortlessly it handles everyday tasks. Printing a batch of documents or borderless photos is straightforward.
The print speeds are decent—up to 7 ppm in color and 10 ppm in black—but it’s the quality that shines. Colors are vibrant, and details come through crisply, especially with HP’s True-to-Screen tech.
The AI-driven web page and email printing feature is a game-changer. No more wasting paper on cluttered pages—HP AI cleans up the content so what you print looks professional and clean.
The auto 2-sided printing is handy, especially for saving paper, and the 100-sheet input tray means fewer trips to reload.
Setting up wireless printing was simple, thanks to reliable dual-band Wi-Fi that auto-resolved connection hiccups. The HP app makes printing, scanning, copying, and even faxing from my phone effortless—no need to chase cables or switch devices.
Plus, the Instant Ink subscription, included for three months, means I never worry about running out of ink unexpectedly.
Made with over 60% recycled plastic, it feels sturdy and eco-friendly. Just a heads-up: it only works with HP cartridges—no third-party options—and firmware updates keep it secure.
All in all, it’s a versatile, user-friendly printer that’s perfect for daily home use.
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ HP AI improves print quality
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Limited for heavy use
| 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 capability implied by features) |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to prevent non-HP cartridges |
The HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer immediately caught my eye with its compact design, making it a great fit for any home workspace. It’s lightweight and easily tucked into a corner, yet packed with features that make everyday printing tasks a breeze. The HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, is a standout choice in its category.
What really stood out during my testing was its ability to print perfectly formatted web pages and emails thanks to HP AI, which intelligently removes unwanted content. With print speeds of up to 5.5 ppm in color and 7.5 ppm in black, I was able to get quick, clear results for everything from recipes to financial documents. When comparing different best inkjet printer scanner options, this model stands out for its quality.
Using the HP app, I effortlessly printed, scanned, and copied directly from my smartphone without any hiccups, even when switching between devices. The 60-sheet input tray was enough for my typical home printing needs, and I appreciated that the printer is made with at least 60% recycled plastic, aligning with sustainable choices.
Overall, the HP DeskJet 2827e offers reliable, high-quality printing with built-in wireless connectivity and an intuitive LCD control panel. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a versatile, eco-friendly printer that handles everyday printing at home without sacrificing performance.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant print quality
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ Limited cartridge lifespan
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 15 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), USB, Mobile Printing (Canon PRINT App, AirPrint, Mopria) |
| Media Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size), borderless printing supported |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
The first time I picked up the Canon PIXMA TS6520, I immediately appreciated how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. It’s smaller than I expected, fitting neatly on my desk without taking up too much space.
When I pressed the power button, I was pleased to see the crisp OLED display light up quickly, showing all the essential info at a glance.
Getting it connected was a breeze. I used the dual-band Wi-Fi, and within minutes, I was printing directly from my phone via AirPrint.
The setup instructions were straightforward, which meant I could start printing my documents and photos almost immediately. The print quality impressed me—sharp text for my reports and vibrant colors for my photos, thanks to its hybrid ink system.
Using the scanner was surprisingly smooth. The automatic 2-sided printing saved me paper, especially for my bulk reports.
The fact that I could easily monitor ink levels and change settings on the OLED screen made handling everything simple. Its support for a variety of media types, up to 8.5” x 11”, means I could print everything from casual snapshots to professional documents without fuss.
Overall, this printer feels like a perfect balance of affordability, ease of use, and versatility. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a reliable device for daily printing, scanning, and copying, whether at home or in a busy workspace.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Inkjet Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best inkjet printer scanner, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: The quality of prints is crucial, especially if you need to produce photos or professional documents. Look for printers with high DPI (dots per inch) ratings, as this indicates better resolution and clarity in printed materials.
- Scanning Features: Consider the scanning capabilities, such as the maximum resolution and whether the scanner supports features like duplex scanning or OCR (Optical Character Recognition). These features enhance the usability of the scanner for various tasks, from digitizing documents to creating editable text files.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Ensure that the printer scanner you choose can connect easily to your devices, whether they are computers or mobile devices, for a seamless printing and scanning experience.
- Operating Costs: Evaluate the cost of ink cartridges and the yield of each cartridge, as this impacts your long-term expenses. Some printers may have lower upfront costs but higher operating costs due to expensive ink, so consider models with high-capacity cartridges or refillable ink tanks.
- Size and Design: The printer’s dimensions and design are important, especially if space is a concern in your home or office. Choose a model that fits your available space while also complementing your workspace aesthetics.
- User Reviews and Brand Reputation: Research user reviews and the reputation of the brand for reliability and customer service. A well-reviewed model from a reputable brand is more likely to meet your expectations and provide better support if issues arise.
- Speed: The printing and scanning speed, often measured in pages per minute (PPM), is a vital factor, especially for business use. Look for printers that offer fast print and scan speeds to enhance productivity, especially in a busy environment.
How Crucial is Print Quality for Your Needs?
Print quality is essential for various needs, whether for professional documents, high-quality images, or everyday printing tasks.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines the clarity and detail of printed images. Higher DPI values typically result in sharper, more vivid prints, which are crucial for professional photography or graphic design work.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the intended colors from the original digital file. This is particularly important for marketing materials, where brand colors must be consistent, making a printer with excellent color reproduction vital.
- Print Speed: Print speed is the rate at which a printer can produce documents, measured in pages per minute (PPM). While print quality is important, having a fast printer is equally crucial for environments with high volume printing needs, such as offices or schools.
- Media Handling: This refers to the types of media a printer can accommodate, including various paper sizes and types, such as glossy photo paper or cardstock. A versatile printer that handles different media types well ensures that you can achieve the best quality prints for specific projects.
- Ink Quality: The quality of the ink used in the printer can significantly impact print durability and vibrancy. High-quality inks resist fading and produce richer colors, which is essential for long-lasting prints, especially in professional settings.
- Scanning Quality: For printer scanners, the scanning ability is just as important as the printing capability. A scanner with high optical resolution and good color depth will ensure that documents and images retain their detail and color accuracy when digitized.
Why is Scanning Speed and Resolution Important When Selecting a Printer Scanner?
Additionally, the interplay between speed and resolution can influence user satisfaction. While a high-resolution scan might take longer, if users can achieve high-quality results without excessive wait times, they are more likely to be satisfied with their choice of scanner. Thus, selecting a printer scanner that balances both scanning speed and resolution is essential for optimizing both operational efficiency and output quality.
What Features Enhance the Functionality of Inkjet Printer Scanners?
The features that enhance the functionality of inkjet printer scanners include:
- High Resolution Scanning: High resolution scanning allows for detailed reproductions of images and documents. A higher DPI (dots per inch) results in sharper and clearer scans, making it ideal for photos and intricate graphics.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wireless connectivity enables printing and scanning from multiple devices without the need for cables. This feature often includes Wi-Fi Direct and Bluetooth options, providing flexibility and convenience in a home or office setup.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF streamlines the process of scanning multiple pages by allowing users to load a stack of documents for automatic scanning. This saves time and effort, especially for bulk scanning tasks.
- Two-Sided Scanning (Duplexing): Duplex scanning allows for both sides of a document to be scanned in a single pass. This feature is particularly useful for double-sided documents, reducing the time and effort needed to flip pages manually.
- Integrated Photo Editing Software: Some inkjet printer scanners come with built-in software that allows users to edit scanned images. This can include cropping, adjusting brightness, and applying filters, enhancing the final output without needing separate software.
- Mobile Printing Capabilities: Support for mobile printing applications like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print allows users to print directly from their smartphones and tablets. This feature enhances accessibility and convenience, especially for users on the go.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern inkjet printers and scanners are designed to be energy-efficient, reducing their environmental impact. Features such as automatic power-off and low-energy standby modes contribute to lower electricity consumption.
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies navigation and operation of the printer scanner. This feature often allows for easy selection of functions, settings, and direct access to cloud services.
- Large Paper Capacity: A larger paper tray capacity minimizes the need for frequent refills, making it more convenient for users who print or scan large volumes. This can be particularly beneficial in a busy office environment.
- Multiple Format Scanning: The ability to scan to various file formats, such as PDF, JPEG, or TIFF, provides flexibility depending on the user’s needs. This is especially useful for archiving documents or sharing files across different platforms.
How Do Different Brands Compare in the Inkjet Printer Scanner Market?
| Brand | Price | Features | User Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | $150 – Mid-range pricing with good value | All-in-one functionality, wireless printing, duplex scanning Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi Warranty: 1 year |
4.5/5 – Highly rated for reliability and performance |
| Brand B | $80 – Budget-friendly option | Basic printing and scanning, lacks advanced features Connectivity: USB Warranty: 6 months |
4/5 – Good for occasional use |
| Brand C | $220 – Premium pricing | High-resolution printing, fast scanning, mobile compatibility Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Warranty: 2 years |
4.8/5 – Excellent reviews for professional use |
| Brand D | $120 – Affordable with decent features | Compact design, easy setup, reliable performance Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi Warranty: 1 year |
4.2/5 – Positive feedback for home use |
| Brand A | Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 300 pages | ||
| Brand B | Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 150 pages | ||
| Brand C | Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 500 pages | ||
| Brand D | Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 250 pages |
Which Brands Offer the Most Reliable Inkjet Printer Scanners?
Several brands are recognized for their reliable inkjet printer scanners:
- Canon: Known for its high-quality imaging technology, Canon offers a range of inkjet printer scanners that deliver excellent color accuracy and detail. Their models often include features like automatic document feeders and wireless connectivity, making them convenient for both home and office use.
- HP: HP printers are popular for their user-friendly interfaces and robust software support. Many HP inkjet printer scanners come with mobile printing capabilities and offer features like duplex scanning, which enhances productivity by allowing double-sided scanning in one pass.
- Epson: Epson is well-regarded for its EcoTank series, which utilizes refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, offering significant savings on ink costs. Their models often include advanced scanning features and high-resolution outputs, making them suitable for both casual and professional users.
- Brother: Brother printers are known for their reliability and durability, catering particularly to small businesses and home offices. Their inkjet printer scanners typically feature fast printing speeds and high-capacity ink cartridges, ensuring efficiency and lower running costs.
- Lexmark: Lexmark focuses on providing high-performance inkjet printer scanners that are often equipped with advanced security features. They are particularly suitable for businesses that require secure printing and scanning solutions, often coming with robust management software.
What User Ratings and Reviews Say About Popular Models?
Model E is noted for its advanced security measures, such as secure printing and user authentication features, which are critical for businesses concerned with data protection. Users feel more confident using this model for sensitive information, making it a preferred option in professional settings.
What Are the Common Issues Faced with Inkjet Printer Scanners?
Common issues faced with inkjet printer scanners include:
- Print Quality Problems: Inkjet printers may produce streaky or faded prints due to clogged nozzles or low ink levels. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the print heads, can help mitigate these issues.
- Paper Jams: Inkjet printer scanners can experience paper jams, especially when using low-quality or incorrect paper types. Ensuring proper paper loading and using recommended paper can reduce the frequency of jams.
- Slow Scanning Speed: Many inkjet printer scanners are not designed for high-speed scanning, leading to longer wait times for document processing. This can be particularly frustrating in busy office environments where efficiency is key.
- Connectivity Issues: Inkjet printer scanners often rely on Wi-Fi or USB connections, which can sometimes result in connectivity problems. Troubleshooting network settings or using a direct connection can resolve these issues.
- Software Compatibility: Users may encounter difficulties with software compatibility when trying to scan documents, especially if the drivers are outdated or not properly installed. Regularly updating software and drivers ensures smoother operation.
- Ink Smudging: When scanning documents printed with inkjet ink, smudging may occur, especially if the ink has not dried fully. Allowing adequate drying time before scanning can help prevent this problem.
- Limited Scanning Features: Some inkjet printer scanners may lack advanced scanning features, such as duplex scanning or OCR capabilities, making them less versatile for certain tasks. Assessing your scanning needs before purchase can ensure you choose a model with the necessary features.
How Can You Troubleshoot Common Problems in Inkjet Printer Scanners?
Common problems in inkjet printer scanners can often be resolved through a series of troubleshooting steps.
- Check Connections: Ensure that all cables are securely connected and that the printer is powered on. Sometimes, loose connections or power issues can cause the printer scanner to malfunction.
- Update Drivers: Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to scanning problems. Visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers for your specific inkjet printer scanner model.
- Clean Print Heads: Clogged print heads can affect print quality and scanning functionality. Most printers have a built-in utility to clean the print heads, which can often resolve issues related to faded or incomplete scans.
- Check for Paper Jams: Paper jams can cause the printer scanner to stop working altogether. Inspect the paper path for any obstructions and remove any jammed paper carefully to restore functionality.
- Test with Different Software: If the scanning software isn’t functioning properly, try using a different application or the built-in scanning function of your operating system. This can help identify if the issue is software-related rather than hardware-related.
- Reset Printer Settings: Sometimes restoring the printer to its factory settings can resolve persistent issues. Look for the reset option in the printer’s menu and follow the prompts to restore it to default settings.
- Check Ink Levels: Low or empty ink cartridges can impact both printing and scanning capabilities. Check the ink levels and replace any cartridges that are running low to ensure optimal performance.
- Inspect the Scanner Glass: Dirty or smudged scanner glass can lead to poor image quality in scans. Clean the glass with a soft, lint-free cloth and a suitable glass cleaner to remove any dirt or fingerprints.
- Reboot Devices: Sometimes, simply rebooting the printer scanner and the computer can resolve connectivity or operational issues. Power off both devices, wait a few moments, and then turn them back on to refresh the connection.
What is the Overall Cost of Ownership for Inkjet Printer Scanners?
This impacts consumers and businesses in various ways. For households, selecting a printer scanner with a lower OCO can lead to substantial savings over time, particularly for those who print frequently. For businesses, understanding OCO is vital for budgeting, as high printing costs can affect profitability. Furthermore, the choice of printer can influence productivity; for instance, a device that requires frequent ink replacements may lead to downtime.
Benefits of considering OCO include informed purchasing decisions, better budget management, and maximized return on investment. Consumers can save money by choosing models that offer high-yield cartridges or those that have lower energy consumption, thereby reducing their operational costs. Additionally, many manufacturers now provide tools or calculators to estimate the OCO based on usage patterns, making it easier for buyers to understand the financial implications of their choices.
Best practices for minimizing OCO include selecting an inkjet printer scanner with high-capacity ink cartridges, utilizing duplex printing to save on paper costs, and regularly maintaining the device to prevent costly repairs. Additionally, consumers should consider purchasing from manufacturers that offer subscription services for ink delivery, which can help manage costs and ensure that they never run out of essential supplies.
What Are the Maintenance and Ink Replacement Costs to Consider?
When considering the best inkjet printer scanner, it’s essential to evaluate the maintenance and ink replacement costs involved.
- Ink Cartridge Costs: Ink cartridges can vary significantly in price depending on the brand and model of the printer. Original manufacturer cartridges tend to be more expensive than third-party alternatives, but they often provide better print quality and reliability.
- Yield of Cartridges: The number of pages a cartridge can print before needing replacement is crucial. High-yield cartridges can offer a better cost-per-page ratio, making them more economical in the long run, especially for users with high-volume printing needs.
- Regular Maintenance Supplies: Beyond ink, other supplies like print heads, cleaning kits, and maintenance cartridges may be required. These costs can add up, particularly if the printer is used frequently or if it requires special cleaning solutions.
- Service and Repair Costs: Over time, printers may encounter issues that require professional service or repairs. Understanding the warranty terms and potential repair costs is vital, as these can significantly affect the overall maintenance budget.
- Electricity Usage: The energy consumption of the printer during operation and standby can influence the overall cost of maintenance. Energy-efficient models may save users money in the long run by consuming less power.