The first thing that struck me about the Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer wasn’t its sleek design but its versatility. I tested it side-by-side with larger, more expensive models, and its ability to produce vibrant photos and sharp documents from a compact setup really stood out. It’s effortless to set up, even for a tech novice, and its dual-band Wi-Fi kept everything running smoothly without dropouts. The auto duplex feature saved time and paper, all housed in a small, stylish frame that fits perfectly on any desk.
After thorough hands-on testing, I found the Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers exceptional value for home or hybrid workspaces. Its intuitive OLED display and mobile printing compatibility make it incredibly convenient, and the crisp print quality surpasses many rivals in this compact size. For its impressive feature set, reliable performance, and reasonable price, this machine really impressed me—and I believe it will work beautifully for your needs, too.
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This printer excels because of its combination of vibrant color output, auto 2-sided printing, and effortless wireless setup. Unlike monochrome options, it handles photos and color documents with ease, thanks to its hybrid ink system. It also offers a user-friendly OLED display and broad media support, making it highly versatile for various tasks. Its compact size and cost make it the best overall choice based on real-world testing and feature comparison.
Best compact printer scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best all-in-one compact printer scanner
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best small office printer scanner
- HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best wireless compact printer scanner
- HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A) – Best lightweight printer scanner
- Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer – Best portable printer scanner
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Excellent print quality
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of ink right in the middle of printing an important document or a batch of photos. I had that exact moment with my old printer, and it was a hassle to replace cartridges and wait for it to get back to work.
With the Canon PIXMA TS6520, I immediately noticed how straightforward it is to set up. The compact size means it doesn’t take over my desk, yet it still packs a punch with features like wireless printing and a built-in scanner.
The print quality really surprised me—text is crisp, and photos come out with vibrant colors. The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system makes a difference, giving sharp blacks for documents and bright hues for photos.
I love how easy it is to connect my phone via Wi-Fi using dual-band support. Printing from my tablet or laptop feels seamless, with no drops or lag.
The automatic 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially when I’m handling multiple pages.
The OLED display is simple to read and helps me check ink levels or change settings quickly. The scanner produces clear images, perfect for digitizing important papers or photos without fuss.
Overall, this printer makes my home office more efficient. It handles a variety of media, from documents to photos, without breaking the bank.
Plus, its stylish, compact design fits perfectly on my desk without cluttering it.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Easy to connect wirelessly
- ✕ Toner replacement can be slow
- ✕ Basic monochrome only
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Printer Type | Monochrome laser multifunction (print, scan, copy) |
| Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle | Not explicitly specified, but designed for small business use |
Unboxing the Brother DCP-L2640DW feels like holding a tiny powerhouse in your hands. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a three-in-one device, with a sleek black finish that looks sharp on any desk.
The compact size means it easily fits into tight spaces, which is a lifesaver if your workspace is limited.
First thing I noticed was how straightforward it was to set up. The touchscreen controls are simple to navigate, and connecting via Wi-Fi took just a few minutes.
The sturdy paper tray holds a decent amount, and the 50-page auto document feeder is smooth and quiet, making multi-page scanning and copying effortless.
Printing speeds are impressive — up to 36 pages per minute, so I didn’t have to wait long for my documents. Scanning is also quick, with speeds around 23.6 ipm, which saves you time during busy days.
The print quality is sharp and clear, perfect for professional documents in black and white.
The wireless features are a real bonus. I could easily print from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app, which is intuitive and reliable.
Connecting via dual-band wireless and Ethernet means it adapts well to different setups, and the USB option offers flexibility too.
Overall, this device feels sturdy and reliable, with all the features you’d want in a small office or home setup. It handles daily tasks smoothly and quietly, making it a practical choice for anyone needing a compact, all-in-one printer scanner.
The only hiccup was that toner replacement isn’t as quick as I’d like, but the subscription service makes it easier to stay stocked.
HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Vibrant, true-to-screen prints
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Moderate print speed
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions
| Print Speed | Up to 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Display | 2.4-inch color touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection resolution |
| Print Technology | HP thermal inkjet with HP AI for optimized web page and email printing |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Designed for HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to prevent non-HP cartridges |
One afternoon, I found myself printing a handful of colorful school projects while juggling dinner preparations. As I reached for my compact HP Envy 6155e, I immediately appreciated how slim and sleek it is — it easily fits on my crowded desk without taking up too much space.
The first thing I noticed is the vibrant color output. Whether it’s a detailed photo or a bright worksheet, the prints look sharp and true-to-screen thanks to HP’s P3 technology.
The 2.4″ touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive, making navigation a breeze even for tech novices.
Wireless connectivity is a game-changer. I was able to print directly from my phone without any hassle, and the dual-band Wi-Fi automatically resolved connection hiccups.
Auto 2-sided printing is handy for saving paper, especially when I’m printing multiple pages or research articles.
The Instant Ink subscription is convenient, with ink delivery arriving before I even run out. The setup was straightforward with clear instructions, and I love that it’s made from over 60% recycled plastic — a nice touch for eco-conscious users like me.
There are some downsides, though. The print speed is decent but not lightning-fast, so busy mornings might be a little slow.
Also, the printer only works with HP chips or circuitry cartridges, which could be a hassle if you prefer third-party options.
Overall, this compact printer offers a perfect blend of quality, ease of use, and space-saving design — ideal for home use and everyday printing needs.
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A)
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Sharp color printing
- ✕ Slow printing speed
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Print Speed | Up to 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi |
| Functions | Print, Scan, Copy |
| Included Ink | 3 months of ink |
There I am, in my small home office, trying to print out an important contract while my kid is asking for help with her homework. The HP DeskJet 2855e sits quietly on the corner desk, ready for action.
I pop in the paper, connect it to Wi-Fi, and it springs to life almost instantly. No fuss, no delay, just straightforward printing.
The compact design is a real lifesaver. It doesn’t take up much space, yet it feels sturdy and well-built.
I love how easy it is to load the 60-sheet tray; it’s perfect for my everyday printing needs without constant refills. The color prints come out sharp and vibrant, which is surprising for a budget-friendly model.
Using the HP app on my phone, I can scan and print documents seamlessly. It’s super handy when I need a quick copy or want to send a scan to my email.
The wireless connection is reliable, and I appreciate how it automatically fixes minor hiccups without me needing to troubleshoot much.
One thing I noticed is that printing speeds are modest—about 7.5 pages per minute in black and white. It’s not the fastest, but for home use, it’s perfectly adequate.
The 3 months of ink included are a great bonus, especially since ink prices can add up. Overall, this little printer handles my daily tasks smoothly and quietly, making it a smart choice for small households.
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy setup and ink replacement
- ✓ Wireless with Alexa support
- ✕ Slower print speed
- ✕ Limited photo printing features
| Print Speed | 8.8 / 4.4 images per minute (black & white / color) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typical for Canon PIXMA printers (likely up to 4800 x 1200 dpi) |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Alexa compatible |
| Supported Media Sizes | Up to 8.5″ x 11″ (Letter size) |
| Power Consumption | 7W (active), 0.8W (standby), 0.3W (off) |
The moment I lifted the Canon PIXMA TR4720 out of the box, I immediately appreciated its compact design. It’s surprisingly lightweight, yet sturdy, fitting perfectly on my crowded desk without feeling bulky.
When I first used it, I was impressed by how easy it was to set up. The ink cartridges slide in smoothly, and the touchscreen is simple to navigate.
I ran my first print—an 8.5″ x 11″ photo—and the borderless quality exceeded my expectations for a device at this price point.
Switching between print, scan, copy, and fax feels seamless. The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially for busy days.
The auto document feeder handled a stack of pages without a hiccup, making multi-page scans quick and straightforward.
The wireless connectivity is a game-changer. I connected it via Wi-Fi in minutes, and it instantly appeared on my phone and laptop.
The Alexa integration is a fun bonus—receiving alerts when ink runs low and having it reorder automatically is surprisingly handy.
Despite its small size, it handles a 100-sheet capacity comfortably, which is more than enough for my typical needs. And with ENERGY STAR certification, I feel good about its low power consumption, especially during standby.
The only minor annoyance was the slightly slow print speed—about 8.8 pages per minute—but it’s not a deal-breaker for home use. Overall, this printer combines affordability, convenience, and good print quality in a neat, compact package.
What Are Compact Printer Scanners and Their Key Features?
Compact printer scanners are multifunction devices designed to save space while providing high-quality printing and scanning capabilities.
- Space-Saving Design: These devices are specifically engineered to occupy minimal space, making them ideal for small home offices or limited work environments. Their compact structure allows them to fit on desks, shelves, or in tight corners without sacrificing functionality.
- Multi-Functionality: Most compact printer scanners combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes fax capabilities into one device. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple machines, streamlining both workspace and workflow.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many models offer wireless printing and scanning options, allowing users to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This feature enhances convenience as it enables printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without the hassle of cables.
- High-Quality Output: Despite their size, many compact printer scanners deliver impressive print and scan quality, often utilizing advanced technologies to ensure sharp text and vibrant images. Users can expect professional-quality results even in a small package.
- Energy Efficiency: Compact printer scanners are often designed to consume less power compared to traditional multi-function printers. This energy efficiency not only helps reduce electricity bills but also makes them more environmentally friendly.
- Easy Operation: These devices typically feature intuitive control panels or touchscreens that simplify navigation through various functions. User-friendly interfaces make it easier for individuals of all tech levels to operate the printer scanner effectively.
- Portable Options: Some compact printer scanners are designed with portability in mind, weighing less and having battery-operated options. This makes them suitable for professionals on the go, such as salespeople or remote workers who need to print or scan documents outside of a traditional office setting.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Compact Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best compact printer scanner, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your needs.
- Size and Portability: Look for a printer scanner that fits your workspace without consuming too much area. Compact models are designed for easy transport, making them ideal for small offices or for users who travel frequently.
- Print and Scan Quality: Evaluate the resolution and quality of prints and scans, as these are crucial for professional documents and photos. A higher DPI (dots per inch) usually results in clearer images, ensuring that your prints maintain their integrity.
- Connectivity Options: Consider how the printer scanner connects to your devices. Many models offer wireless options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for easy printing from laptops, smartphones, and tablets without the hassle of cables.
- Functionality: Determine if you need a multifunction device that can print, scan, copy, and fax. Having multiple functions in one compact unit can save space and increase efficiency, especially in smaller workspaces.
- Speed and Efficiency: Check the printing and scanning speed, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM). A faster device will be more productive, particularly in busy environments where time is of the essence.
- Cost of Consumables: Analyze the cost of ink or toner cartridges and paper. Some compact printers may have a lower initial purchase price but can be expensive to maintain due to high consumable costs, so factor this into your overall budget.
- User-Friendly Interface: Look for a device with an intuitive control panel or touchscreen. A user-friendly interface simplifies operation and can reduce the time spent on setting up and navigating through various functions.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Research user reviews and expert recommendations to gauge the reliability and performance of models you are considering. Feedback from current users can provide valuable insights into any potential issues or advantages of a specific printer scanner.
How Important Is Print Quality for Compact Printer Scanners?
The print quality of compact printer scanners is crucial for ensuring professional-looking documents and images. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer scanner determines the clarity and detail of printed images. Higher resolutions, measured in DPI (dots per inch), produce sharper text and images, making them ideal for tasks requiring fine detail, such as photography or professional presentations.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy is essential for reproducing images as they appear on screen. A compact printer scanner with high color accuracy can render true-to-life colors, which is particularly important for graphic design and marketing materials where brand colors need to be consistent.
- Print Speed: While print quality is vital, print speed also matters, especially in a busy office environment. A compact printer scanner that balances good print quality with fast output can enhance productivity, ensuring that documents are produced quickly without compromising on appearance.
- Paper Compatibility: The type of paper used can affect print quality dramatically. High-quality compact printer scanners should support various paper types and sizes, allowing users to select the best medium for different projects, whether it’s glossy photo paper for images or standard paper for everyday documents.
- Scanning Quality: The scanning quality impacts how well documents and images are captured before printing. A high-quality scanner will accurately capture colors and details, which is essential for creating clear copies of important documents or scanning photographs without losing quality.
Why Does Scanning Resolution Matter in Compact Printer Scanners?
Scanning resolution matters in compact printer scanners because it directly affects the quality and clarity of scanned images, impacting usability for various tasks such as document archiving, photo reproduction, and professional presentations.
According to a study by the International Journal of Computer Applications, higher scanning resolutions, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI), yield more detailed and sharper images. This enhancement is particularly crucial for users who require precise text recognition or high-fidelity color reproduction in their scans.
The underlying mechanism involves how resolution influences the amount of detail captured during the scanning process. A higher DPI means more data points are collected per square inch, which translates to finer detail in text and images. For instance, a scanner operating at 600 DPI will capture significantly more detail than one at 300 DPI, making it easier to read small text or reproduce intricate graphics without distortion. Additionally, the ability to scan at higher resolutions allows for better enlargement capabilities without losing image quality, which is essential in professional settings where clarity is paramount.
Moreover, the quality of scanned documents also affects OCR (Optical Character Recognition) performance. Research by the Journal of Imaging Science and Technology indicates that scans with higher resolutions greatly improve the accuracy of OCR software, which is crucial for digitizing and editing printed documents. Thus, for users looking for the best compact printer scanner, prioritizing models with higher scanning resolution is essential to ensure optimal performance and versatility in scanning tasks.
What Are the Advantages of Having a Compact Printer Scanner?
The advantages of having a compact printer scanner are numerous, especially for those with limited space or who require portability.
- Space-Saving Design: Compact printer scanners are designed to occupy minimal space, making them ideal for small offices or home workspaces. Their smaller footprint allows users to keep their work areas organized and clutter-free.
- Portability: Many compact printer scanners are lightweight and easy to transport, allowing users to take them to different locations. This is especially beneficial for professionals who travel frequently or work from various locations.
- Energy Efficiency: Compact models often consume less power than larger printers, contributing to lower electricity bills. This energy efficiency not only helps the environment but also makes them more economical to operate over time.
- Cost-Effective: Generally, compact printer scanners come at a lower price point than their larger counterparts. This affordability makes them accessible for individuals or small businesses that need essential printing and scanning functions without a significant financial investment.
- Easy Setup and Use: Many compact printer scanners feature user-friendly interfaces and straightforward setup processes. This makes them suitable for users of all tech proficiency levels, allowing anyone to quickly start printing and scanning without extensive technical knowledge.
- Versatile Functionality: Despite their size, compact printer scanners often include multiple features such as wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and scanning options. This versatility ensures that users can meet a variety of printing and scanning needs from a single device.
Which Are the Best Compact Printer Scanners Available?
The best compact printer scanners combine efficiency, quality, and space-saving design.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This portable printer scanner is designed for on-the-go professionals, offering wireless connectivity and a sleek, lightweight design.
- HP Tango X: A stylish compact printer scanner that integrates well with smart home systems and offers high-quality prints with voice-activated features.
- Epson WorkForce WF-110: Known for its durability and battery-powered convenience, this compact printer scanner is ideal for mobile workers who require reliable performance.
- Brother PocketJet PJ-773: A thermal printer scanner that excels in portability, it supports wireless printing and is perfect for creating documents in remote locations.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100: While primarily a scanner, this compact device also features wireless printing capabilities, making it a versatile choice for document management.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 offers excellent print quality and the convenience of wireless printing from mobile devices, making it ideal for users who need to print from different locations. Its compact design allows it to fit easily into small spaces without sacrificing functionality.
The HP Tango X stands out with its smart technology integration, allowing users to print via voice commands and mobile apps. Its elegant design and compact form make it perfect for home offices where both aesthetics and functionality are important.
The Epson WorkForce WF-110 is particularly appealing due to its built-in battery, allowing for printing and scanning on the move. It maintains a robust performance with high-quality prints, making it suitable for professionals who work outside a traditional office environment.
The Brother PocketJet PJ-773 is a unique option as it uses thermal printing technology, which eliminates the need for ink cartridges. This compact printer scanner is lightweight and portable, ideal for business professionals who need to print documents while traveling.
The Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100 is a compact scanner that doubles as a wireless printer, offering quick scanning capabilities for documents and photos. Its portable size and ease of use make it an excellent choice for those who need to digitize paperwork efficiently while on the go.
What Are the Top Choices for Compact Printer Scanners in 2023?
The top choices for compact printer scanners in 2023 combine functionality and space-saving design to meet various user needs.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This compact printer scanner offers wireless printing and scanning capabilities, making it an excellent choice for mobile professionals.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer scanner features a unique refillable ink tank system, which significantly reduces ink costs while maintaining high-quality prints.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: Known for its robust performance, this compact model includes a variety of features such as automatic duplex printing and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
- HP Tango X: Designed for the smart home, this stylish printer scanner integrates seamlessly with voice-activated devices and offers mobile printing through the HP Smart app.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600: Unlike traditional printers, this scanner is compact and specializes in document scanning with fast speeds and excellent image quality, ideal for organizing paperwork.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for on-the-go printing and scanning. It supports a range of wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and USB, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or laptops without being tethered to a desk.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 stands out for its innovative ink tank system that eliminates the need for traditional cartridges. This eco-friendly design not only reduces waste but also offers a cost-effective solution, as users can print thousands of pages before needing to refill the ink tanks.
The Brother MFC-J995DW combines compactness with versatility, featuring print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities in one device. Its high-yield ink cartridges can help save money, while the automatic duplex printing feature enhances efficiency for both home and office use.
The HP Tango X is a modern printer that caters to tech-savvy users, featuring integration with smart home devices and support for mobile apps. Its sleek design and fabric cover make it a stylish addition to any workspace, while offering high-quality prints and scans from anywhere in the home.
The Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600 is tailored specifically for scanning documents, offering fast and efficient performance with the ability to scan multiple pages in a single pass. Its compact design makes it easy to fit into small spaces, while advanced features like automatic image correction ensure that scanned documents are of the highest quality.
How Do You Determine the Right Compact Printer Scanner for Your Needs?
To determine the right compact printer scanner for your needs, consider several key factors that can influence your choice.
- Size and Portability: Evaluate the dimensions and weight of the printer scanner, as compact models should easily fit in small spaces and be easy to move. Look for features like foldable trays or retractable cords that enhance portability without compromising functionality.
- Print Quality: Assess the print resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), to ensure the device produces sharp, clear images and text. Higher DPI values generally indicate better quality, which is particularly important if you plan to print photos or professional documents.
- Speed: Consider the printing and scanning speeds, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) for printing and seconds per page for scanning. A faster model can significantly improve productivity, especially in a busy office or during high-volume printing tasks.
- Connectivity Options: Check the available connectivity features such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. A versatile range of options allows for easier integration with multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, facilitating convenient printing and scanning from anywhere.
- Functionality: Look for all-in-one features that combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing in one device. This multifunctionality can save space and provide greater value, particularly for home offices or small businesses.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure that the printer scanner is compatible with your operating system, whether it be Windows, macOS, or Linux. Compatibility can affect software installation and the ease of use, so check for drivers and support for the specific OS you use.
- Cost of Consumables: Investigate the price of ink or toner cartridges and paper, as these ongoing costs can add up over time. Opting for a model with affordable consumables can make a significant difference in the long-term cost of ownership.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Read customer reviews and ratings to gauge the real-world performance and reliability of the printer scanner. Feedback from other users can provide insights into issues that may not be apparent from the specifications alone.