Compact and ready for anything, the best all-in-one printers can easily do multiple jobs. While you may think all-in-one printers are just for the office, they’re not. Whether you’re working from home, need one for school, or for home use, all-in-one printers can help. You can scan documents, receive or fax docs, and print them. You can make copies (which is excellent if you’re making flyers) and print stuff. I use my all-in-one constantly. I may print recipes from the web, download and print important docs, and sometimes print out packing lists before traveling.
Our top picks for the best all-in-one printer
Best budget all-in-one printer: HP ENVY Inspire 7958e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Best budget all-in-one printer
HP ENVY Inspire 7958e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy Inspire is a compact printer that fits any space. You can also use the app to connect your phone to the device. Speaking of the app, you can control the printer through it or use the touchscreen. It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chrome operating systems. One note: This printer does give you the option to enroll in the Instant Ink subscription—however, if you do so, know that you will not be able to use any other ink.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, scan, copy
- Print speed: Monochrome: 15 ppm, color: 10 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 125 sheet input tray, 60 sheet output tray
- Dimensions and weight: 15.08 x 18.11 x 7.5 inches, 15.23 pounds
- Scan resolution: Up to 1200 dpi
- Connectivity options: Self-healing Wi-Fi, USB 2.0 client, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, dual band, Wi-Fi 2.4/5Hhz
- Ink: HP ink cartridges
- Price on publish: $129.99
What we like:
- Can handle both color and monochrome printing
- Easy setup
- Scans and copies documents easily from mobile devices or computer
What we don’t like:
- It doesn't have a fax function
- Some may not realize that opting into the trial Instant Ink subscription means they can only print with Instant Ink instead of the cartridges of their choice.
The bottom line:
This compact printer gives you a lot of bang for the buck, and you can find support on the HP website.
Get it here: HP ENVY Inspire 7958e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Best value all-in-one printer: Brother Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Brother’s printer has options that you’d find in a higher-priced all-in-one printer. It scans, copies, prints, has a fax function, and does duplex (front and back side) printing. One of its features allows you to scan to any cloud service like Google Docs, Dropbox, OneDrive, and more. It also has an app that you can use to control the printer. It is compatible with Mac and Windows OS.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, automatic duplex print, scan, scan to cloud service, copy, fax, ink monitor, compatible with Windows, wireless printing from computer, phone, or tablet
- Print speed: Monochrome: 17 ppm, color: 9.5 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 150 sheets, 20 sheet ADF
- Dimensions and weight: 17.7 x 9.9 x 18.7 inches, 19.3 pounds
- Scan resolution: Interpolated scan resolution: 19200 x 19200 dpi, optical scan resolution: 1200 x 2400 dpi (flatbed), 1200 x 600 dpi (ADF)
- Connectivity options: Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Ink: Inkjet
- Price on publish: $139.99
What we like:
- Duplex printing
- Prints and scans from computer or mobile devices
- Connectivity options: Wireless, USB 2.0, or Wi-Fi Direct
- 30-day return policy
What we don’t like:
- Replacement ink cartridges are a bit pricey
The bottom line:
This well-priced all-in-one printer can be used at home and for small businesses.
Get it here: Brother Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Best all-in-one printer for home use: HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e Wireless Color All-in-One Inkjet Printer
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e has over 4,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. Lauded for its workhorse abilities, this all-in-one is so advanced that it can be controlled via Amazon’s Alexa. It prints both color and monochrome copies quickly, has connectivity options, and keeps itself up-to-date. This HP device uses HP Wolf Pro Security to keep viruses and malware at bay. Like other HP printers, it can be controlled via its app. It works with Chrome, Windows, and Mac.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, duplex prints, scan, fax, automatic document feeder, works via app or Alexa, low-on-paper sensor, touchscreen
- Print speed: Monochrome: 22 ppm, color: 18 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 250 sheet input tray, 60 sheet output tray
- Dimensions and weight: 13.48 x 17.3 x 10.94 inches, 20.43 pounds
- Scan resolution: Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity options: Wireless, USB, Ethernet, self-healing Wi-Fi
- Ink: Inkjet cartridges
- Price on publish: $289.99
What we like:
- One-year limited hardware warranty
- Scan to cloud services
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Borderless print option when printing photos
- Uses various mobile printing services including Chrome OS, HP Smart app, Apple AirPrint, Wi-Fi Direct Printing, and Mopria
What we don’t like:
- Uses four print cartridges, which can be pricey
The bottom line:
This workhorse printer for home use prints monochrome and color copies, scans, faxes, and much more.
Get it here: HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e Wireless Color All-in-One Inkjet Printer
Best all-in-one laser printer: Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw All-in-One Wireless Laser Printer
Best all-in-one laser printer
Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw All-in-One Wireless Laser Printer
Canon’s All-in-One Laser printer has gotten rave reviews in Reddit’s r/Printers community and on the Staples website. This compact laser printer has it all. Print from a USB or the app, or use Canon’s online site to create posters or flyers. It has a customizable touchscreen that does duplex printing, regular printing, scanning, and faxing. It’s compatible with Windows, has network security, and has 1 GB of printer memory. It works with Windows and Mac operating systems.
Specifications:
- Features: Wireless 4-in-1 print, copy, scan, fax, duplex printing, two-sided scanning, five-inch color touchscreen,
- Print speed: Monochrome and color: 22 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 250 sheet standard cassette, 1 sheet multipurpose tray, 50 sheet ADF
- Dimensions and weight: 17.8 x 18.2 x 16.3 inches, 48.5 pounds.
- Scan resolution: 600 x 600 dpi, print/copy resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity options: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct
- Ink: Ink cartridges per color
- Price on publish: $399.99
What we like:
- Three-year limited warranty
- Prints color and black and white pages quickly
- Can be accessed via a variety of devices
- ENERGY STAR certified
What we don’t like:
- Pricey ink cartridges
The bottom line:
If you’re working from home, run a small to medium business, or have school-aged children who create many projects, this all-in-one laser jet will fit your needs well.
Get it here: Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw All-in-One Wireless Laser Printer
Best all-in-one printer for a small business: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax and Ethernet
When you have a small business, every decision counts. You want a rugged all-in-one printer that can handle multiple print loads, and copy and scan documents quickly. Epson’s EcoTank does that, and with its three paper sources, it can automatically print, scan, and copy two-sided documents. Suitable for both Windows and Mac, it promptly prints brochures and easily handles other types of graphic design. It has two years of unlimited ink and can connect via Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB, and wireless. You can send documents to a cloud service or a local drive when scanning. Via Epson’s web portal, you can monitor usage, set security, and generate reports.
Specifications:
- Features: Web portal allows you to set security, monitor paper and ink, create reports, scan to cloud or drive, prints, fax, scans, copies, print via mobile devices, color touchscreen, uses ink bottles for less waste, can print from USB or mobile devices
- Print speed: Monochrome and color: 25 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 50 page single pass ADF, 550 sheets via three sources: two 250 cassette trays, one 50 sheet multipurpose tray
- Dimensions and weight: 16.7 x 19.7 x 18.1 inches, 39.2 pounds
- Scan resolution: 1200 dpi
- Connectivity options: Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth BLE,
- Ink: Ink bottles
- Price on publish: $799.99
What we like:
- Can connect via Apple AirPrint, Mopria, and other programs
- Has a remote printer driver
- Comes with additional ink
- Prints borderless prints
- Two-year warranty when you register
What we don’t like
- Reviewers say it sometimes runs slowly when printing
The bottom line:
Epson’s EcoTank can connect to any device and print anywhere, including the cloud.
Get it here: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax and Ethernet
Best all-in-one wireless printer: Canon PIXMA TS7720 Wireless Home Printer
Canon’s PIXMA TS7720 is lightweight, easy to set up, and will print and scan whatever needs to be done. It automatically prints two sides, which cuts down on paper costs. Connect to it via USB, Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi Direct. You can use Canon’s app to control the printer. It can be connected to Windows, Mac, and Android systems.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, scan, copy, touchscreen,
- Print speed: Monochrome: 15 ppm, color: 10 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 100 sheet rear tray, 100 sheet front tray
- Dimensions and weight: 13.8 x 14.8 x 6.7 inches, 13.8 pounds
- Scan resolution: Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity options: High speed USB, Wi-Fi
- Ink: FINE hybrid ink system
- Price on publish: $99.99
What we like:
- Good for small spaces
- Easy to set up and connect
- Can print from mobile devices
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t have an automatic paper feeder for scanning
- Reviewers state that it goes through ink quickly
- Best for light use.
The bottom line:
If you occasionally need to print, you can’t go wrong with this lightweight, inexpensive printer from Canon.
Get it here: Canon PIXMA TS7720 Wireless Home Printer
Best all-in-one printer for low operating costs: Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Best all-in-one printer for low operating costs
Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Meet an all-in-one printer that works with Alexa and can print from a mobile device for under $100. Yes, Brother’s compact inkjet printer scans, faxes, copies, and prints. It doesn’t have the duplexing feature, and color ink is pricier than black ink. Having said that, if you need a cost-effective printer, this is your tool. It works well with both Windows and Mac.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, scan, fax, copy, works with Alexa
- Print speed: Monochrome: 17 ppm, color: 9.5 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 150 page main tray, 20 page ADF
- Dimensions and weight: 15.7 x 13.5 x 13.5 inches, 16.4 pounds,
- Scan resolution: Up to 1200 x 2400
- Connectivity options: Wireless, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi Direct
- Ink: Inkjet cartridges
- Price on publish: $79.99
What we like:
- Perfect for home or small business
- Economical when using black ink
- Can connect via Apple AirPrint and Mopria
- ENERGY STAR certified
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t have duplex capabilities
- Color printing is expensive due to ink costs
The bottom line:
This Brother all-in-one is nicely sized and delivers the basics (scan, fax, print, copy) at a reasonable price.
Get it here: Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Best all-in-one printer for graphics: Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX7021
Best all-in-one printer for graphics
Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX7021
This is a beast of an all-in-one printer. It prints both monochrome and color pages quickly, automatically duplexes prints, and has a 50-sheet document feeder. It can print school reports, brochures, presentations, and envelopes. It can handle glossy paper, too. Use it at home or work. Best of all, it has a three-year or 80,000-page limited warranty. It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows OS.
Specifications:
- Features: Automatically duplex prints, prints on regular and glossy paper, scans
- Print speed: Monochrome: 24 ppm, color: 15.5 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 600: Two 250 cassette trays plus 100 sheet rear tray
- Dimensions and weight: 15.8 x 16.2 x 12.4 inches, 28.6 pounds,
- Scan resolution: Up to 1200 X 600 dpi
- Connectivity options: High speed USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, mobile device, support multiple mobile printing apps
- Ink: Pigment-based inks (bottles)
- Price on publish: $599.99
What we like:
- Good for home or office
- Replacement inks aren’t that expensive (around $30 for a set)
- Three paper trays
- Can be used with Windows, Mac, Chrome, Android
- Supports the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria
What we don’t like:
- Bulky and heavy
The bottom line:
It does everything from scanning, copying, and printing crisp-looking photos.
Get it here: Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX7021
Best all-in-one printer for the workplace: HP Color Laserjet MFP 4301fdw Wireless Printer
Designed to work in an office setting for small to medium businesses, this HP laser jet printer is, yes, big, but it’s intended to be used by multiple people, which is why the paper trays hold 300 pages. It prints both color and black and white pages fast, copies, scans, and even sends (and receives) faxes. The printer supports wireless printing from any mobile device. It has automatic duplex printing. It’s also compatible with Mac, Windows, Chrome, and Linux. However, take notice of the ink compatibility: This printer only will work if it uses printer ink cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry, and will block any cartridges without HP chips or circuitry (firmware updates also check for non-compliant cartridges).
Specifications:
- Features: Copy, fax, scan, print
- Print speed: Monochrome and color: 35 ppm
- Paper tray capacity: 300 sheet input tray, 150 sheet output tray, 50 sheet ADF
- Dimensions and weight: 16.6 x 17.1 x 15.1 inches to 16.6 x 27 x 30 inches with optional 550-sheet tray 3, 45 pounds
- Scan resolution: Monochrome: Up to 600 x 600 dpi (up to 38,400 x 600 enhanced dpi), Color: Up to 600 x 600 dpi
- Connectivity options: Ethernet, high-speed USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, walk-up USB, auto-crossover Ethernet, self-healing Wi-Fi
- Ink: Laser jet ink (only cartridges with HP chips or circuitry)
- Price on publish: $529
What we like:
- Compatible with any operating system
- Works with Alexa
- Auto jam recovery
- ENERGY STAR certified
What we don’t like:
- Bulky
- Expensive
- Will only work with printer cartridges with HP chips or circuitry
The bottom line:
Seamlessly handles any job you give it, and has a one-year, next business day, on-site warranty.
Get it here: HP Color Laserjet MFP 4301fdw Wireless Printer
Best all-in-one portable printer: HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer
Best all-in-one portable printer
HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer
When you’re traveling, there may be times when you need to scan, print, and copy at all hours. Or, if you’re into minimalism, you want a small all-in-one printer that barely takes up room. HP’s mobile printer can operate on batteries or be plugged into an outlet. It comes with HP Dropbox, HP Google Drive, and Microsoft Dotnet software. It works with Windows, Linux, Mac, and Chrome operating systems. You can print envelopes and borderless printing (up to 5 x 7 inches) too.
Specifications:
- Features: Print, scan, copy, can be packed into a suitcase
- Print speed: Monochrome (ISO, laser comparable): 10 ppm on AC, 9 ppm on battery; Color (ISO, laser comparable): 7 ppm on AC, 6 ppm on battery; Monochrome (normal): 10 ppm on AC, 9 ppm on battery; Color (normal): 7 ppm on AC, 6 ppm on battery
- Paper tray capacity: 50 pages
- Dimensions and weight: 14.96 x 7.8 x 3.6 inches, 10.58 pounds
- Scan resolution: Monochrome: Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi when printing from a computer, Color: 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi when printing from a computer and 1200 input dpi
- Connectivity options: Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct
- Ink: Inkjet cartridges
- Price on publish: $489.99
What we like:
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Runs on batteries or electricity
What we don’t like:
- Extra piece of equipment that you have to carry with you
- When traveling, you may need to purchase a separate case for it
The bottom line:
If you’re looking for an all-in-one printer that can turn a hotel room into an office, this is your printer.
Get it here: HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer
How I selected the best all-in-one printers
Expert insight and reviews
I used my expert’s insights, polled everyone I knew who had an all-in-one printer, and parsed out customer reviews on multiple sites.
Functions
I analyzed numerous all-in-one printers and opted for ones that could handle printing and scanning to and from multiple programs and devices. I looked at copy speed and if they had the fax option.
Print speed
The all-in-one printers in this roundup all have a fast ppm (page per minute). Whether you’re printing photos, brochures, or your kid’s homework, you shouldn’t have to wait around for it.
Wireless printing
If you’re an Apple or Android user, you want an all-in-one printer that supports AirPrint and Android wireless printing.
Compatibility
I evaluated all-in-one printers against compatibility options. I found all-in-one printers that easily connect to common operating systems like Windows and Mac. But I also found printers that just as easily connected to Chrome and Linux.
Dimensions
While I tried to find all-in-one printers that weren’t oversized, some all-in-one printers, specifically the ones that can be used in an office setting or for graphics, are by their nature, big. They have large paper tray capacities, and bigger print cartridges compared to home all-in-one printers designed for casual users.
What to consider when buying an all-in-one printer?
Usage
I spoke with Julissa Irias from HP Communications, Worldwide Consumer Printing Solutions, to learn how to choose the best all-in-one printer for your needs. The most crucial factor to consider is usage. How often will you use all of the all-in-one functions? If you see yourself scanning, printing, and copying documents a lot, then an all-in-one printer is your best bet. Irias also says to consider “environmental fit, connectivity, cost, capacity, and sustainability.” All-in-one printers come in various sizes, from super compact to almost table-size, so look for one that best fits your needs and space.
Ink subscriptions
One new development in the printer market is the option for ink subscription services specific to your printer. This is how it works: The printer automatically senses when ink cartridges are low, and then you’re sent new ones. Here’s where it gets wonky. If you cancel the subscription and still use the printer cartridge that was part of it, the company from which you bought the printer can “brick” you, i.e., not allow you to use the cartridge to print. However, if you try to use a non-branded printer cartridge, the printer can block you from doing so. Every printer runs on software. They’re now built to auto-update, and that software could also block customers from using any ink cartridge they want. So, what steps can a customer take to prevent the ink subscription issue? Simply put, don’t purchase the subscription.
Printing technology
Laser or inkjet? Inkjet printers are better for color printing, while laser printers are faster and more cost-effective when it comes to black and white printing.
Print speed
How many pages per minute (ppm) can the printer handle? Home all-in-one printers aren’t going to print a thousand-page document while you recline in your comfy office chair, but if you want something speedy, check out that function.
Print quality
Look for sharpness of images, color accuracy, and overall quality.
Connectivity options
How does the all-in-one printer integrate with your home devices? Does it use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, or USB? Look for a printer that easily fits into what you’re using at home. As an aside, Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to print from multiple devices.
Compatibility
Ensure the all-in-one printer is compatible with your phone, laptop, desktop computer, or other electronic device you may want to print from.
Scanner quality and features
Look into the scanner’s resolution and speed and whether it has an automatic document feeder (ADF) for multi-page documents.
Size and design
Measure the space where the printer will sit and ensure that its dimensions will fit comfortably in that space.
Energy efficient
Some printers are more energy efficient than others. Look for ones that are ENERGY STAR certified, which means they meet strict guidelines set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy efficient products are better for the environment because they use clean energy. According to ENERGY STAR’s website, “Clean energy is generated from renewable sources without producing any pollution [as opposed to fossil fuel], which helps to improve the health of the environment and reduces the amounts of harmful emissions people are exposed to.” The use of clean energy slows global warming and reduces the amount of toxins added to the environment.
What does an all-in-one printer mean?
All-in-one printers are multi-functional devices. They can print, scan, fax (yes, some people still fax!), and copy. Irias says the term is typically used for home printers because “office devices use ‘MFP’ or Multi-Function Printer.” Many home printers, including HP home printers, have enhanced functionality. Irias explains that home all-in-one printers have cool extras like “mobile app solutions, security, and easy supply replenishment with HP Instant Ink with Paper Add-On included.”
All-in-one printer basic care and maintenance
- Use original supplies and media for the best output. Some printer companies will reject off-brand ink and lock down the printer until the ink is switched to the correct brand.
- Follow the printer’s manual for maintenance and cleaning.
- Dust it. Built-up dust can cause issues with any type of device or machine.
- Use the right device for the correct job. If multiple people use a home all-in-one printer in an office environment, it does a job it’s not intended to do. That means the printer may start having print, copy, or scan issues due to overuse. Always buy the suitable machine for the job.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between home and office all-in-one printers?
Home printers can have the same all-in-one functions as an office all-in-one printer. However, office printers tend to be designed for heavier use with faster printing speeds and larger paper tray capacities. Because of their increased capacity, they may be larger in size than home printers. Office all-in-one printers can also have better print quality but home all-in-ones may print higher quality photos.
Which company’s all-in-one printer is the best?
This is a tricky question to ask, simply because everyone has their preferences. Some people swear by anything Canon or Epson makes. Other people will never buy anything but Brother all-in-one printers. Then, some people have only used, and will only use, HP printers. Personally, I have used a few different printers, but have kept going back to HP for two reasons: ease of use and inexpensive ink. The best all-in-one printer is the one that works best for you.
What are the disadvantages of owning an all-in-one printer?
When all-in-one printers first arrived, if you had an issue with one of the functions, chances are the entire machine would break down. With all the improvements and iterations, now if your scanner isn’t working or you have copying issues, your printer will still work while you read the support materials to fix it. Nowadays, troubleshooting a problem is quick and painless.
How often should you change the ink in an all-in-one printer?
“Assuming the right printer has been chosen for the respective use case, cartridges can last for three to six months,” says Irias.
Why are all-in-one printers suitable for home use?
Irias points out that they’re compact and multi-functional and can be used for school, work, or family. On a personal note, I can quickly spot typos and grammatical errors if I print something I'm working on.
What is the average service life of an all-in-one printer?
Depending on the usage, an all-in-one printer can last three to five years on average.
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