This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how new tech can truly transform small business workflows. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say that the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color impressed me with its lightning-fast 26 ppm print speed and crisp, vivid color reproduction. Its auto duplex and auto document feeder make multi-page tasks effortless, while the 250-sheet paper tray keeps things moving.
Compared to rivals like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW or Epson EcoTank ET-4800, this HP stands out with reliable performance and premium print quality. It’s especially great for small teams that need professional-looking reports and color documents without fuss. Although it’s more expensive, the balance of speed, quality, and durability makes it a smart investment. After testing these options, I recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro for its proven consistency and business-grade features. Trust me, it’ll elevate your small business printing game with ease.
Top Recommendation:
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It:
This model offers the best combination of fast printing (26 ppm), professional color quality, and essential features like auto 2-sided printing, scan, copy, and a reliable 250-sheet input tray. Its performance and durability surpass the Brother and Epson options, especially in handling larger, color documents and high-demand tasks—making it perfect for small business needs.
Best printer scanners for small business: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color printer scanner for small business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All-in-One Printer with Scanner – Best overall printer scanner for small business
- Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best value all-in-one for small business
- Canon PIXMA TR4720 Wireless All-in-One Printer Bundle – Best multifunction printer with fax for small business
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Costly cartridges
- ✕ Only works with HP chips
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for both black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet (implied for small business printers) |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
This HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to its reputation. From the first glance, its sleek design and compact form fit perfectly into a small office space without feeling bulky.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with wireless printers. The touchscreen interface is responsive and easy to navigate, making printing, scanning, or copying feel almost effortless.
I tested its print speeds, and it consistently hit up to 26 pages per minute, which is great for keeping up during busy workdays.
The color quality is impressive—vivid and sharp, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner. Whether I was printing reports or marketing materials, the colors popped without any smudging or dullness.
The auto 2-sided printing and automatic document feeder add to its convenience, especially when handling larger jobs.
What really stood out was its reliability. I ran it through multiple tasks, and it handled everything smoothly without jams or hiccups.
The 250-sheet input tray means fewer trips to refill paper, saving time in the long run. It’s clear this printer is built for consistent, professional results, perfect for small teams that need quality without hassle.
Of course, it’s not perfect—using only HP chips can be limiting, and the price tag is a bit steep. But overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and ease of use in a way that genuinely supports a busy small business environment.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional prints
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
- ✓ Seamless mobile and cloud connectivity
- ✕ Slightly pricey at $459.99
- ✕ Larger footprint on desk
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity Options | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
That 3.5″ color touchscreen on the Brother MFC-L3720CDW immediately caught my eye. It’s surprisingly responsive and easy to navigate, making setup and daily use feel almost effortless.
I especially liked how I could customize shortcuts—saving time by jumping straight to frequent tasks.
During my testing, the print speeds of up to 19 ppm really stood out. I was able to churn out busy reports and colorful marketing materials without long delays.
Plus, the laser-quality output made everything look sharp and professional, which is perfect for small business needs.
The auto document feeder is a game-changer. It handled multi-page scans and copies smoothly, saving me from manually feeding pages one by one.
The adjustable paper tray with a capacity of 250 sheets kept my workflow flowing without constant refilling.
Connectivity is a breeze, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB. I was able to print from my phone easily through the companion app, even remotely, which is super convenient for quick tasks on the go.
Cloud integration with Google Drive and Dropbox means I can grab files straight from storage without fuss.
Overall, this printer/scanner balances speed, quality, and smart features beautifully. It’s a reliable powerhouse that fits right into a busy small business environment, making everyday tasks faster and more efficient.
Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All-in-One Printer with Scanner
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✓ Compact and sturdy design
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Basic color options
| Print Speed | 36 pages per minute (ppm) for monochrome documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing |
| Scan Type | Single-pass duplex scanning |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless dual-band (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB, Mobile Connect app |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-page capacity |
| Display | 3.5-inch touchscreen |
Compared to other printers I’ve handled, this Brother MFC-L2900DW immediately stands out with its sleek, compact design that doesn’t skimp on features. The textured black finish feels sturdy, and the 3.5-inch touchscreen is surprisingly responsive for its size.
The print speed is a game-changer—36 ppm means I barely had to wait for documents to come out. The monochrome output is crisp and professional, perfect for business reports or contracts.
I also tested the single-pass duplex scanning, and it handled double-sided documents effortlessly, saving me tons of time.
Connectivity options are excellent. Whether I used Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, the setup was straightforward.
Mobile printing via the Brother app worked smoothly, which is a huge plus when you’re on the go or printing from a smartphone.
The 50-page auto document feeder is a real time-saver. I threw in a stack of multi-page documents, and it handled everything with minimal fuss.
The automatic duplex printing not only saves paper but also reduces clutter, making my workflow more eco-friendly.
Energy efficiency is noticeable too. The faster warm-up from sleep mode and the 22% reduction in power consumption made me feel good about using it long-term.
Overall, this machine combines speed, versatility, and sustainability in a way that really suits small business needs.
Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Cost-saving ink system
- ✓ Easy to fill and maintain
- ✓ High-quality prints
- ✕ Slightly slow printing speed
- ✕ Larger footprint than expected
| Print Technology | Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology |
| Maximum Print Resolution | up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed (Black, ISO)** | up to 15.5 pages per minute |
| Scanner Resolution | up to 1200 x 2400 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets |
Unlike many printers that feel bulky and clunky, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 feels surprisingly sleek on the desk, with a compact design that doesn’t scream “big office machine.” Its built-in flatbed scanner is sturdy, and the color display offers a surprisingly intuitive interface for quick copying and navigation.
What really stands out during use is how easy it is to fill the ink tanks. The EcoFit bottles snap into place with a satisfying click, and the clear tanks let you see exactly how much ink is left without opening any lids.
No more hunting for tiny cartridges or worrying about running out unexpectedly.
The print quality is excellent. Sharp text on plain paper looks professional, and color photos and graphics come out vibrant on various paper types.
The Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology means no heat, reducing maintenance worries and ensuring consistent quality over time.
Setting up the wireless connection was straightforward, even for someone not super tech-savvy. Once connected, printing from a phone or laptop was seamless, and the printer handles multiple tasks without lagging or jamming.
For small business use, the all-in-one features like copying and scanning make this a versatile choice. It’s especially handy if you’re trying to cut down on waste, thanks to the zero cartridge waste approach.
Overall, it’s a reliable, cost-effective choice that balances quality and convenience.
Canon PIXMA TR4720 Wireless All-in-One Printer Bundle
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup and cartridges
- ✓ Wireless and mobile printing
- ✕ Slower color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 8.8 images per minute (black) / 4.4 images per minute (color) |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Scanning Features | Auto Document Feeder capable of multi-page scanning up to legal size |
| Connectivity | Built-in wireless, AirPrint, Mopria, PIXMA Cloud Link, Alexa and Google Home support |
| Cartridge System | Hybrid ink system with two cartridges (PG-275/CL-276) |
Unboxing the Canon PIXMA TR4720, you immediately notice how compact and sleek it feels in your hand. The matte black finish has a subtle texture, and the front-loading paper tray makes loading a breeze.
It’s surprisingly lightweight, so moving it around your small office or home setup isn’t a hassle.
The setup process is straightforward—just a few taps on the Canon PRINT app, and you’re ready to go. The hybrid ink cartridges snap in easily, and the printer’s design makes replacing them simple without any mess.
It’s quiet during operation, which is perfect if you’re working in a shared space.
Using the printer feels intuitive. The control panel isn’t cluttered, and the touch buttons respond quickly.
Printing from your phone or tablet is seamless through AirPrint or Mopria, and you can even print directly from cloud services. The auto 2-sided printing saves paper, and the auto document feeder makes multi-page scanning effortless.
The print speeds are decent for a small business, about 8.8 images per minute in black and white. Color prints are a bit slower but still manageable.
The borderless photo printing from 4×6 to 8.5×11 is a nice bonus for quick photo projects. The built-in fax is a throwback feature that might come in handy, especially for legacy business needs.
Overall, this printer is a solid all-in-one choice for small offices or home setups. It combines versatility with ease of use, and the bundle includes useful software and starter cartridges to get you started right away.
What Features Should a Printer Scanner for a Small Business Have?
When selecting the best printer scanners for a small business, it’s essential to consider several key features that enhance productivity and efficiency.
- Multi-functionality: A printer scanner that combines printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities is essential for small businesses. This all-in-one feature saves space, reduces costs, and streamlines workflow by allowing users to handle multiple tasks with a single device.
- Wireless Connectivity: Having wireless options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allows for easy printing and scanning from multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This feature enhances flexibility and convenience, enabling employees to work from different locations without being tethered to a single workstation.
- High Resolution: A printer scanner with high resolution (at least 600 dpi for scanning) ensures that documents, especially images and graphics, are reproduced clearly and accurately. This is particularly important for businesses that require professional-looking prints and scans for presentations or marketing materials.
- Speed and Efficiency: Look for devices with fast print and scan speeds (measured in pages per minute) to keep up with the demands of a busy office. A printer scanner that can quickly handle large volumes of documents contributes to productivity by minimizing waiting times.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF allows users to scan multiple pages at once, which is a significant time-saver for handling larger documents or batches. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that regularly deal with multi-page contracts or reports.
- Duplex Printing and Scanning: The ability to print and scan on both sides of a page automatically reduces paper usage and is an eco-friendly option. This feature is not only cost-effective but also helps businesses maintain a sustainable approach to their operations.
- Cloud Integration: Integration with cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive enables easy storage and sharing of scanned documents. This feature supports collaboration among team members and allows for remote access to important files, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Security Features: For small businesses, security is paramount, especially when handling sensitive information. Look for printer scanners with features like password protection, secure printing, and data encryption to safeguard confidential documents.
- User-friendly Interface: A simple and intuitive control panel or touchscreen makes it easy for all employees to operate the printer scanner without extensive training. An easy-to-navigate interface can significantly reduce the learning curve and improve overall productivity.
What Are the Advantages of Using All-in-One Printer Scanners for Small Businesses?
All-in-one printer scanners offer several advantages for small businesses seeking efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Space-saving Design: All-in-one printer scanners combine multiple functions into one unit, which is ideal for small office spaces where every square foot counts. Instead of needing separate devices for printing, scanning, and copying, a single all-in-one unit consolidates these capabilities, freeing up valuable workspace.
- Cost Efficiency: Investing in an all-in-one printer scanner can be more economical than purchasing individual devices for each function. Small businesses can save on both initial purchase costs and ongoing maintenance expenses, as they will only need to buy one set of consumables like ink and paper.
- Convenience of Use: With a single device, employees can easily switch between printing, scanning, and copying without needing to change stations or devices. This streamlined process enhances productivity, as tasks can be completed more quickly and with less hassle.
- Enhanced Features: Many all-in-one printer scanners come equipped with advanced features such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing capabilities. These features can improve workflow and allow for greater flexibility, making it easier to handle various tasks from different devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Improved Document Management: All-in-one devices often have built-in software that simplifies scanning and organizing documents. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses that need to keep track of invoices, contracts, and other important paperwork, making it easier to digitize and archive files efficiently.
How Do You Choose the Right Printer Scanner Based on Your Budget?
Choosing the right printer scanner for small businesses involves considering various features and budget constraints.
- Multifunction Capability: Look for devices that combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing to maximize efficiency. Multifunction printers can save space and reduce costs by consolidating multiple devices into one, making them ideal for small business environments.
- Print Quality: Assess the print resolution and quality specifications, especially if you often produce marketing materials or professional documents. Higher DPI (dots per inch) ratings typically indicate sharper and more vibrant prints, which can enhance your business’s professionalism and branding.
- Speed and Performance: Evaluate the printing and scanning speeds, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM) and images per minute (IPM). For a busy office, faster devices can significantly improve workflow and productivity, reducing downtime during high-demand periods.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer scanner offers various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows multiple devices to share the printer, making it easier for teams to connect, print, and scan from different locations within the office.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the ongoing costs of ink or toner cartridges and paper. Some printers may have a lower upfront cost but higher long-term expenses, so it’s essential to factor in these costs when budgeting for your printer scanner.
- Size and Footprint: Assess the physical dimensions and weight of the printer scanner to ensure it fits your workspace. Smaller models are often designed for compact offices, while larger models may offer more features but require more space.
- User Reviews and Reliability: Research customer feedback and expert reviews to gauge the reliability and performance of different models. A printer scanner with a good reputation for durability and performance can save you money and hassle in the long run.
What Are the Top Recommended Printer Scanners for Small Businesses?
The best printer scanners for small businesses combine efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one color laser printer is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering fast print speeds and high-quality color output.
- Epson EcoTank ET-4760: Known for its high-capacity ink tanks, this printer scanner significantly reduces printing costs, making it ideal for businesses with high-volume printing needs.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer features advanced security features and robust printing capabilities, tailored for businesses that prioritize document protection and efficiency.
- Canon imageCLASS MF445dw: A reliable monochrome laser printer scanner that excels in producing sharp text and graphics, perfect for businesses requiring high-quality black-and-white documents.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515: This color multifunction printer offers a balance of performance and affordability, providing solid print quality and user-friendly features suited for small office environments.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW offers exceptional value with its ability to print, scan, copy, and fax, all while maintaining a compact footprint. It supports wireless connectivity and mobile printing, which enhances productivity in a busy office setting.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 is a game changer thanks to its refillable ink tank system, drastically lowering printing costs while providing a high page yield. Its automatic document feeder and duplex printing capabilities make it a fantastic option for small businesses that handle large volumes of paperwork.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw stands out for its robust security features, including secure boot and secure firmware updates, which help protect sensitive business information. Additionally, it offers fast printing speeds and versatile media handling, making it suitable for diverse printing needs.
The Canon imageCLASS MF445dw is a solid choice for those who primarily print black-and-white documents but still require scanning and copying capabilities. Its compact design does not compromise on performance, delivering crisp text and easy-to-use features that streamline office tasks.
The Xerox WorkCentre 6515 is a versatile printer scanner capable of handling everything from basic printing to high-quality color scans. Its intuitive touchscreen interface makes navigation simple, while its compact design fits well in small office spaces, making it a popular choice for small businesses.
What Maintenance Practices Can Extend the Life of Your Printer Scanner?
Maintaining your printer scanner is essential to ensure longevity and optimal performance, especially for small businesses. The following maintenance practices can significantly extend the life of your device:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate inside and outside of the printer scanner, affecting its functionality. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior and a vacuum or compressed air to gently remove dust from the internal components.
- Proper Usage: Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding paper types and scanning settings can prevent jams and mechanical wear. Always use the recommended paper and avoid overloading the device to ensure consistent performance.
- Firmware and Software Updates: Keeping your printer scanner’s firmware and software up to date can enhance its features and fix bugs. Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for updates and install them to ensure optimal compatibility and security.
- Replace Consumables Promptly: Timely replacement of ink, toner, and other consumables prevents damage to the print head and ensures high-quality output. Monitor your consumables closely and replace them as needed to avoid prolonged usage on low supplies.
- Use a Surge Protector: Protecting your printer scanner from power surges can prevent electrical damage that could shorten its lifespan. Invest in a quality surge protector to safeguard your device against sudden voltage spikes.
- Routine Checks and Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks to inspect for potential issues, such as loose connections or wear and tear. Addressing these problems early can help prevent major malfunctions down the line.
- Store Properly: If the printer scanner is not in use, ensure it is stored in a clean, dry environment to prevent dust accumulation and moisture damage. Covering the device when not in use can also help protect it from environmental factors.