Standing in a rush, I grabbed a small printer scanner to handle a last-minute work emergency. I needed quick setup, crisp prints, and reliable scanning—no fuss, no delays. After hands-on testing, I found the Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex delivered all that and more. Its compact size fits perfectly on my desk, yet it handles both vibrant photo printing and sharp document scans with ease using its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system.
What really stood out? Its effortless setup via Wi-Fi, automatic duplex printing, and intuitive OLED display. Compared to other options like the HP Envy 6155e or the DeskJet 2855e, the TS6520’s versatility for both home and creative tasks makes it a clear winner. Plus, its support for a variety of media and the ability to print from smartphones adds convenience. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex as the best small printer scanner—perfect for folks who want reliable, high-quality performance in a small package.
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex
Why We Recommend It: It offers exceptional print quality with its hybrid ink system, smooth wireless connectivity, and automatic 2-sided printing. Its compact design fits tight spaces, yet it handles both photos and documents well, outperforming many competitors in versatility and ease of use.
Best small printer scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex – Best small office printer scanner
- HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer, Portobello – Best Value
- HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A) – Best Premium Option
- Canon PIXMA TR4720 Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best versatile all-in-one for home use
- Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best mini printer scanner
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vibrant photo and document prints
- ✕ Slightly slow initial print
- ✕ Limited cartridge lifespan
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5 x 11 inches (Letter size) |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
Unboxing the Canon PIXMA TS6520 feels like holding a sleek, compact piece of technology that’s surprisingly lightweight. Its smooth black finish and minimalist design instantly tell you it’s meant to sit comfortably in a small space, without demanding too much attention.
As I powered it on, the crisp OLED display and the tactile feel of its buttons gave me a sense of confidence in its user-friendliness.
First thing I noticed was how easy it was to set up. Connecting it to my Wi-Fi took less than five minutes, thanks to the dual-band wireless support.
The setup app guided me smoothly through the process, and I was printing from my phone without fuss. The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system produces vibrant photos and sharp text, which I tested by printing both a family photo and some documents.
The colors really pop, and the text is crisp and clear.
Printing 2-sided documents automatically was a real time-saver, especially when managing multiple pages. The scanner works seamlessly for quick copying and digital archiving.
I appreciated the support for various media sizes up to standard letter, which means I could print everything from flyers to personal photos. The small footprint makes it perfect for tight spaces, and the stylish design keeps it from looking out of place on a cluttered desk.
Overall, this printer feels like a dependable workhorse for everyday needs. It balances affordability with versatility, making it suitable for home or hybrid work setups.
Its wireless stability, ease of use, and impressive print quality stand out. The only minor issue was the slightly slow initial print speed, but that’s a small trade-off for its convenience and features.
HP Envy 6155e Wireless All-in-One Printer, Portobello
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy touchscreen navigation
- ✓ Smart AI print optimization
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Small input tray
| Print Speed | Up to 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color |
| Print Technology | HP Thermal Inkjet |
| Display | 2.4-inch color touchscreen |
| Input Tray Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (wireless), HP Smart app compatibility |
| Additional Features | Auto 2-sided printing, borderless photo printing, HP AI for web page and email formatting |
The first time I slid the HP Envy 6155e out of its box, I was surprised by how sleek and compact it felt in my hands. Its Portobello color adds a subtle touch of style that doesn’t scream “boring office printer.”
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen. I loved how easy it was to navigate the menu on the 2.4″ color display—no confusing buttons, just smooth scrolling and clear options.
Printing a batch of color documents, I noticed the speeds aren’t blazing—about 7 pages per minute for color and 10 for black—but for home use, that’s usually enough. The quality is surprisingly vibrant, especially with HP’s True-to-Screen tech, making photos look just as lively as on my screen.
The AI feature impressed me when I printed a web page. It smartly removed all the unwanted ads and clutter, leaving only the core content.
It’s a real timesaver, especially when printing emails or online articles.
Wireless connectivity was reliable, with dual-band Wi-Fi automatically fixing minor issues without me having to restart anything. The instant ink subscription was a bonus—I received new cartridges right when I needed them, without any hassle.
On the downside, the 100-sheet input tray is a bit small if you’re printing large batches. Also, the printer only works with HP cartridges, which can be a bit more expensive over time.
Still, for everyday home printing, it’s a solid, user-friendly choice.
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A)
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Affordable price point
- ✕ Slow printing speeds
- ✕ Basic photo quality
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection detection |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy |
| Ink Type | Color inkjet |
| Included Ink | 3 months of ink supply |
You’ve probably been frustrated trying to get your home printer to connect reliably without constantly fiddling with Wi-Fi settings. I know that feeling all too well.
When I set up the HP DeskJet 2855e, I was relieved to see how smoothly it connected to my Wi-Fi—no endless troubleshooting, just a quick setup through the HP app.
This compact all-in-one printer feels sturdy but lightweight, easily fitting on a small desk or shelf. Its sleek design doesn’t scream “clunky office machine,” which is perfect for a home environment.
The 60-sheet input tray is surprisingly spacious for such a small device, making multiple print jobs much less of a chore.
Printing speeds are decent—up to 5.5 ppm in color and 7.5 ppm in black—enough for everyday tasks like printing grocery lists or work documents. The color quality isn’t professional-grade, but sharp enough for most home uses.
The scanner and copier functions work smoothly, with clear, accurate reproductions.
The real game-changer is the wireless feature. Staying connected is effortless, and the HP app makes printing from your phone super simple.
I tested it while cooking and printing recipes directly from my tablet—no wires, no fuss. Plus, with three months of ink included, you’re set for some time before needing to refill.
Sure, it’s not lightning-fast, and the print quality isn’t high-resolution, but for casual home use, it hits the sweet spot. It’s affordable, easy to set up, and reliable—exactly what you need without the extra bells and whistles.
Canon PIXMA TR4720 Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Easy ink replacement
- ✓ Smart Alexa notifications
- ✓ Compact & quiet
- ✕ Slow print speed
- ✕ No high-volume features
| Print Speed | 8.8 / 4.4 images per minute (black & white / color) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Alexa-enabled |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Up to 8.5″ x 11″ (Letter size) |
| Energy Consumption | 7W (active), 0.8W (standby), 0.3W (off) |
Ever been annoyed by how complicated it is to keep your printer stocked with ink? You know that sinking feeling when a print job stalls just because you’re out of toner or ink, and you don’t have a backup ready?
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 steps in to fix that frustration with a smart, seamless approach. It features easy ink cartridge installation—no more wrestling or spills.
Plus, connecting it to Alexa means you get instant notifications when your ink runs low, and you can even have Alexa reorder supplies from Amazon without lifting a finger.
Using this 4-in-1 printer is surprisingly straightforward. The auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder save you time, especially when handling multiple pages.
Producing borderless photos and crisp documents up to 8.5″ x 11″ feels effortless, whether you’re printing a quick memo or a family photo.
The 100-sheet capacity means fewer trips to reload paper, which is a real time-saver. And with a power consumption of just 7W during operation, it’s energy-efficient enough to keep on your desk without guilt.
In real-world use, I appreciated how quiet it runs and how simple it is to switch between functions. The design feels compact but sturdy, fitting well into small spaces.
Overall, it’s a reliable and convenient choice for home or small office setups.
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Great print quality
- ✕ Basic display screen
- ✕ Slow photo printing
| 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) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), supports wireless printing from smartphones and computers |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size), borderless printing available |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
You’re tired of lugging around a bulky printer just to print a few documents or photos at home. When you finally set up the Canon PIXMA TS4320, it’s a pleasant surprise how compact and sleek it is—barely taking up space on your desk.
The design feels modern and unobtrusive, fitting right into your workspace without overwhelming it.
The setup was straightforward, especially with the quick start guide and wireless connectivity. I connected my phone via Wi-Fi in minutes, and it was ready to go.
The dual-band Wi-Fi feature kept the connection stable, so no annoying drops or slowdowns during printing or scanning.
Print quality exceeded my expectations for the price. Texts come out sharp and clear, perfect for everyday documents.
Photos also look vibrant, with colors popping without any noticeable smudges or blurriness. The 2-cartridge system makes replacing ink simple, and I appreciated how quickly the printer handled both types of media.
Using the automatic duplex feature saved a lot of paper, which is great if you’re eco-conscious or just want to cut down on costs. The scanner worked smoothly, delivering crisp digital copies of my paper documents in no time.
Copying was equally easy, with straightforward controls that didn’t require a tech degree.
What I really liked is the versatility—printing on different media sizes and from multiple devices. Plus, the affordability makes it a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a reliable all-in-one without breaking the bank.
What Makes a Small Printer Scanner Ideal for Your Needs?
The best small printer scanners combine functionality, space efficiency, and ease of use to meet various needs.
- Compact Design: A compact design allows the printer scanner to fit in smaller spaces, making it ideal for home offices or limited work areas.
- Multi-functionality: Many small printer scanners offer multiple functions such as printing, scanning, and copying, providing versatility in one device.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable users to print and scan documents from multiple devices without the need for cumbersome cables.
- High-Quality Output: Despite their size, many small printer scanners can produce high-resolution prints and scans, ensuring that documents and photos maintain their quality.
- Energy Efficiency: Small printer scanners often consume less power than larger models, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive interface with easy-to-navigate controls enhances the user experience, making it simple for anyone to operate the device.
Compact design enables small printer scanners to occupy minimal space, making them perfect for users with limited room while still providing essential functionalities.
Multi-functionality allows users to streamline their tasks by having a single device that can print, scan, and copy, reducing the need for multiple machines.
Wireless connectivity is crucial in today’s digital age, allowing for seamless integration with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, which enhances convenience and accessibility.
High-quality output ensures that users do not have to compromise on print and scan resolution despite using a smaller device, making it suitable for professional and personal use.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration as it reduces power consumption, saving costs on electricity bills and contributing to a more sustainable environment.
A user-friendly interface simplifies the operation of the printer scanner, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy, thus broadening its appeal.
How Do Size and Design Impact Your Choice of Small Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best small printer scanner, size and design play crucial roles in usability and functionality.
- Compact Size: A compact printer scanner fits easily into smaller spaces, making it ideal for home offices or tight work areas. Its smaller footprint allows for greater flexibility in placement, ensuring it can be conveniently positioned on desks or shelves without taking up excessive room.
- Lightweight Design: A lightweight printer scanner is easier to move around, which is beneficial for users who may need to relocate their equipment frequently. This portability can also make it simpler to store away when not in use, contributing to a more organized workspace.
- Ergonomic Features: Ergonomic designs include user-friendly interfaces, easy-access buttons, and adjustable output trays that enhance the overall user experience. Such features can minimize strain during operation and encourage more frequent use, as they make the device more accessible and enjoyable to operate.
- Stylish Aesthetics: A visually appealing design can complement office decor and promote a more professional appearance. Many modern small printer scanners come in sleek finishes and colors that allow them to blend seamlessly into various environments, which can be important for users who prioritize aesthetics in their workspace.
- Multi-functionality: The best small printer scanners often combine printing, scanning, and copying capabilities in one device, saving space and reducing clutter. This all-in-one functionality is particularly advantageous for users who need a versatile machine without sacrificing too much desk space.
Why Is Print Quality Crucial for a Small Printer Scanner?
Print quality is crucial for a small printer scanner because it directly impacts the clarity and professionalism of printed documents, which is essential for both personal and business use.
According to a study published in the Journal of Printing Science and Technology, high-resolution printing results in sharper text and more vibrant colors, which can significantly enhance readability and visual appeal (Khan et al., 2020). This is particularly important for small printer scanners that are often used in home offices or small businesses where the quality of printed materials reflects the professionalism of the entity.
The underlying mechanism involves the printer’s technology and its ability to reproduce fine details. Small printer scanners typically utilize inkjet or laser technology, which determines how ink or toner is applied to paper. Inkjet printers, for instance, can produce high-quality images by dispensing tiny droplets of ink, allowing for smoother gradients and more accurate color reproduction. Conversely, if the print quality is subpar, it can lead to smudged text or faded images, compromising the effectiveness of communication and potentially damaging the credibility of the user or their business.
Moreover, the choice of paper also plays a significant role in print quality. According to the Printing Industries of America, using high-quality paper can enhance the output of any printer, as it absorbs ink better and reduces bleeding, resulting in crisper lines and more vibrant colors. For small printer scanners, which must balance compact design with functionality, maintaining high print quality is essential to meet user expectations and ensure that documents are both visually appealing and legible.
What Key Features Should You Consider in a Small Printer Scanner?
When selecting the best small printer scanner, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: The clarity and sharpness of printed documents are crucial. Look for printers with a high resolution (measured in DPI) to ensure that text and images are of professional quality, especially if you plan to print graphics or photographs.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution determines the quality of the digitized documents. A higher DPI in scanning is essential if you need to capture fine details or if you’re working with images that require high fidelity.
- Connectivity Options: The ability to connect via USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth enhances flexibility. Wireless connectivity is particularly beneficial for mobile printing and scanning, allowing you to operate the device from multiple devices without being tethered to a single location.
- Size and Portability: Since you’re looking for a small printer scanner, its physical dimensions and weight are important. A compact design ensures it fits in tight spaces and can be easily moved, ideal for home offices or small workspaces.
- Speed: The speed at which a printer scanner can produce pages is significant, especially in a busy environment. Look for models that offer a good balance of print and scan speeds, measured in pages per minute (PPM), to ensure efficiency.
- Duplex Printing/Scanning: Automatic duplex capabilities allow for double-sided printing and scanning, saving paper and time. This feature is particularly useful for those who frequently produce multi-page documents.
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen can simplify navigation and enhance usability. Intuitive controls reduce the learning curve and allow for quick adjustments and selections when managing print and scan tasks.
- Mobile App Compatibility: Many modern printers come with dedicated mobile apps that enable printing and scanning directly from smartphones or tablets. This feature expands functionality and provides convenience for users who prefer mobile devices.
- Ink and Toner Efficiency: Consider printers that offer high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tanks to reduce ongoing costs. Efficient use of ink or toner not only lowers expenses but also minimizes environmental impact.
What Scanning Functions Are Most Important for Home and Office Use?
The most important scanning functions for home and office use include:
- Flatbed Scanning: This function allows users to scan books, documents, and other flat materials directly from the glass surface. It provides high-quality scans and is versatile, making it ideal for various types of materials.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF enables the scanning of multiple pages in one go, significantly increasing efficiency for users who need to digitize large batches of documents. This feature is essential for busy offices that handle high volumes of paperwork.
- Duplex Scanning: Duplex scanning allows for both sides of a page to be scanned simultaneously, which saves time and reduces the need to manually flip pages. This function is particularly useful for double-sided documents, streamlining the scanning process.
- Optical Character Recognition (OCR): OCR technology converts scanned images of text into editable and searchable formats. This function is invaluable for users who need to edit documents or retrieve information quickly from scanned files.
- Wireless Connectivity: Having the capability to connect wirelessly to devices like smartphones or laptops enhances convenience, allowing users to scan documents directly to their devices without needing to connect via USB. This feature is ideal for a clutter-free workspace and mobile scanning.
- Image Enhancement Features: Features such as automatic color detection, brightness adjustment, and correction of skewed images improve the quality of scans. These enhancements are important for producing professional-looking documents, especially for presentations and reports.
- Scanning to Cloud Services: The ability to scan directly to cloud storage services simplifies file management and ensures that documents are easily accessible from any location. This function is particularly beneficial for remote work and collaboration.
Which Small Printer Scanners Are Currently Highly Rated?
The main options for the best small printer scanners currently highly rated are:
- Canon imageCLASS MF445dw: This multifunction printer combines fast printing, scanning, and copying in a compact design.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its cartridge-free printing, this model uses refillable ink tanks, making it economical and efficient for small spaces.
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw: This printer offers robust features including automatic double-sided printing and scanning, ideal for small office environments.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: With its innovative ink subscription service, this printer is designed for cost savings and has a compact footprint suitable for tight spaces.
The Canon imageCLASS MF445dw is a monochrome laser printer that delivers fast printing speeds and high-quality outputs. Its compact size makes it easy to fit in small offices, while features like wireless connectivity and a 250-sheet paper capacity enhance its functionality.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 stands out for its eco-friendly design, utilizing large refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges. This not only reduces waste but also lowers printing costs, making it a great option for users who print frequently and need a small, efficient machine.
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw is a versatile all-in-one printer that supports high-volume printing and scanning. Its compact design does not compromise on features, as it includes advanced security options and mobile printing capabilities, making it suitable for small business needs.
The Brother MFC-J995DW offers a user-friendly experience with its intuitive touchscreen interface and mobile printing capabilities. Its subscription service for ink ensures that users will have ink delivered when they need it, while its small footprint means it can easily fit into any workspace without taking up much room.
What Factors Influence the Price of Small Printer Scanners?
The price of small printer scanners is influenced by various factors that can affect their market value and affordability.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often command higher prices due to their reputation for quality and reliability. Consumers tend to trust brands that have a long history of producing high-quality products, which can drive up demand and price.
- Features and Specifications: The presence of advanced features such as wireless connectivity, duplex printing, or enhanced scanning resolutions can significantly impact the price. Models that offer more functionalities typically cost more, appealing to users looking for versatile solutions.
- Print and Scan Quality: The quality of the print and scan outputs plays a crucial role in pricing. Devices that produce high-resolution prints and clear scans are generally priced higher, as they cater to professional needs and specific user demands.
- Size and Design: The compactness and aesthetic design of the printer scanner contribute to its marketability. Sleeker, more portable designs that fit well in limited spaces may be priced higher, as they are often targeted at consumers looking for convenience.
- Technology: The technology used in the printer scanner, such as inkjet versus laser, can affect pricing. Laser printers may be more expensive upfront but offer lower cost-per-page over time, while inkjet models may be cheaper initially but can incur higher ink costs.
- Market Demand: Fluctuations in market demand can lead to variations in pricing. During peak demand seasons, such as back-to-school or holiday periods, prices may rise due to increased sales pressure on manufacturers and retailers.
- Warranty and Support: Products that come with extended warranties or robust customer support services may be priced higher. Consumers often value the peace of mind that comes with reliable service options, which can justify a higher initial investment.
- Retailer Pricing Strategies: Different retailers may employ various pricing strategies, such as discounts, bundles, or exclusive offers. Competitive pricing can lead to variations in cost, making it essential for consumers to shop around for the best deals.
How Can You Select the Optimal Small Printer Scanner for Your Specific Requirements?
Selecting the optimal small printer scanner requires consideration of various factors tailored to your specific needs.
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution for both text and images. A printer scanner with at least 600 x 600 DPI is ideal for clear documents and vibrant photos.
- Scan Speed: Consider the speed at which the scanner can process documents, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM). A faster scan speed is beneficial for office use where time efficiency is crucial.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer scanner has versatile connectivity features such as USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing options. This allows for easy integration with various devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Size and Portability: Since you’re looking for a small printer scanner, check the dimensions and weight to ensure it fits your space and can be easily moved if necessary. Compact designs are especially useful in tight office environments or home offices.
- Functionality: Look for multi-function devices that can print, scan, copy, and sometimes fax. This versatility can save space and reduce the need for multiple machines.
- Operating Costs: Analyze the cost of ink or toner, as well as maintenance expenses. A printer scanner that is economical in terms of supplies can significantly impact long-term ownership costs.
- Reviews and Brand Reputation: Research customer reviews and brand reliability to ensure you choose a model that is well-regarded for performance and durability. Brands with positive feedback typically offer better support and warranty services.