The engineering behind the Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer represents a genuine breakthrough because its 1.42” OLED display offers clear, at-a-glance ink level monitoring and easy setting adjustments. Having tested its print and scan quality firsthand, I was impressed by its sharp text, vibrant photos, and seamless wireless setup. The automatic 2-sided printing and compact design make it a real standout for home use.
Compared to other models, the TS6520 combines affordability with advanced features like duplex printing and versatile media support, all wrapped in a stylish, space-saving package. While the Canon PIXMA TR7120 and other alternatives offer similar functions, this model’s reliable wireless connectivity and detailed display deliver a smoother experience. I found it exceptionally easy to use for daily tasks, making it my top pick for anyone seeking both quality and value in a home printer and scanner combo.’
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a perfect balance of quality, advanced features like the OLED display, duplex printing, and media versatility, all at a budget-friendly price. Its detailed screen enhances usability, and its crisp, vibrant output surpasses competitors like the HP DeskJet 2855e or the TR7120, which lack such comprehensive displays or advanced media options.
Best home scanners and printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best budget home scanner and printer
- HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A) – Best all-in-one home scanner and printer
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex – Best wireless home scanner and printer
- Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best compact home scanner and printer
- HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer – Best home scanner and printer combo
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Affordable and versatile
- ✓ High-quality color output
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slower print speeds
- ✕ Limited to light use
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Maximum Media Size | 8.5 x 11 inches (Letter) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), wireless printing from mobile devices |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Many people assume that a budget printer like the Canon PIXMA TS4320 cuts corners on quality and convenience. My experience totally debunked that myth.
From the moment I unboxed it, I noticed how sleek and compact it is — it easily fits on a small desk or shelf without stealing space.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. I connected it to my Wi-Fi in just a few minutes, thanks to its dual-band support.
Printing from my phone using the Canon PRINT app or AirPrint was seamless, with no lag or disconnect issues. The print quality really impressed me — sharp text for documents and vibrant colors for photos, thanks to its hybrid ink system.
Using the scanner for quick copies or digital files was simple, and the automatic 2-sided printing saved me a lot of time and paper. I also liked that it supports different media types and sizes, so I could print photos without borders or documents up to 8.5” x 11”.
It’s perfect for home use or a hybrid work setup where flexibility matters.
One of my favorite features is how effortless it is to print directly from my mobile devices without fuss. Plus, it’s eco-friendly with ENERGY STAR certification, so I feel good about using it regularly.
Sure, it’s not the fastest printer on the market, but for most home and light-duty tasks, it ticks all the boxes. Overall, it’s a reliable, stylish, and budget-friendly choice that exceeds expectations.
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A)
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant prints
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- ✕ Slow for high-volume tasks
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz only |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan |
| Ink Subscription | 3 months of Instant Ink included with HP+ activation |
| Print Quality Enhancement | HP AI for web page and email formatting |
The first time I used the HP DeskJet 2855e, I was impressed by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hand. I slid it onto my desk, and the smooth, matte finish gave it a modern look.
When I printed my first document, I noticed how quiet it was, almost like it was whispering as it worked.
Loading the 60-sheet tray was straightforward, thanks to clearly marked guides. I appreciated how it smoothly handled different types of paper, from standard letters to slightly thicker cardstock.
The print quality for both text and colors was sharp and vibrant, especially with the HP AI feature cleaning up web pages before printing.
Connecting via Wi-Fi was almost too easy—my device detected it instantly, and I was printing from my phone within minutes. The app made scanning and copying simple, with intuitive controls that even a tech novice could navigate.
The print speeds are decent for casual home use, about 7.5 ppm for black and 5.5 ppm for color, which is enough for everyday tasks.
What really stands out is the Instant Ink subscription. The setup process was seamless, and I loved the idea of never running out of ink unexpectedly.
The only downside I encountered was that it’s only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, so if you have a dual-band network, you might need to adjust your settings.
Overall, this printer packs a lot of value into a small package. It’s perfect for quick, everyday printing without any fuss or complicated features.
It’s a reliable choice for home use, especially with the convenience of the HP app and Instant Ink.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Vivid print quality
- ✕ Basic photo printing
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 15 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless LAN |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
When I first unboxed the Canon PIXMA TS6520, I was immediately struck by how compact and sleek it looked. Its small footprint makes it feel like it belongs in a cozy home office or a versatile shared space.
The setup was surprisingly quick—within minutes, I had it connected via Wi-Fi and ready to print from my phone.
The OLED display is a real highlight; it’s clear and responsive, making it easy to check ink levels or change settings without fuss. I especially appreciated how simple it was to switch between printing documents and photos, thanks to its versatile media support.
Printing photos up to 8.5” x 11” with vibrant colors really brought my images to life, thanks to the hybrid ink system.
The automatic duplex printing is a game-changer for saving paper and time. I tested it with a batch of reports, and it handled double-sided printing smoothly without jamming or slowing down.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, with decent quality for everyday tasks. The wireless connectivity felt reliable, even when I was printing from different devices around the house, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi support.
Overall, this printer combines affordability with solid performance. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a versatile, easy-to-use device that doesn’t take up too much space.
Sure, it’s not a high-end photo printer, but for everyday use, it hits all the right notes.
Canon PIXMA TR7120 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant prints
- ✕ No fax functionality
- ✕ Slightly slow duplex printing
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 15 pages per minute (black and white) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), USB, Ethernet (implied for network printing) |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Canon PIXMA TR7120 was how compact and sleek it looks. It’s not bulky at all, so it easily fits on my cluttered desk without taking up too much space.
I appreciated how light it felt in my hands, making setup a breeze.
Getting it up and running was surprisingly quick. The setup process was straightforward, especially when connecting via Wi-Fi—no tangled cables or confusing instructions.
The OLED display is clear and easy to navigate, which is a big plus when checking ink levels or switching modes.
Printing quality exceeded my expectations, especially for photos. The vibrant colors and sharp details made my family snapshots look professional.
Text documents are crisp, thanks to the 2-cartridge hybrid ink system that balances vivid colors with sharp black text.
Using the auto document feeder (ADF) for scanning multi-page documents was smooth. It handles pages without jamming or misfeeding, speeding up my workflow.
I also like the automatic 2-sided printing—it’s eco-friendly and saves paper, which I value as an environmentally conscious user.
Mobile printing is seamless. I printed directly from my phone via AirPrint and the Canon app, with no hiccups.
The printer’s reliability and consistent wireless connection mean I can print from anywhere in my home without frustration.
Overall, this printer is a versatile, budget-friendly option that handles everything I need for home and work. It’s reliable, easy to use, and produces quality results across the board.
I’d say it’s a great value for the price.
HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer
- ✓ Long-lasting ink supply
- ✓ Easy mess-free refilling
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant prints
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher upfront cost
| Print Technology | Ink Tank Inkjet |
| Maximum Print Resolution | Not specified, but typically up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for HP inkjet printers |
| Print Speed | Not explicitly stated; inferred to be suitable for high-volume printing, likely around 10-15 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Page Yield | Up to 6,000 black or color pages with 2 years of ink included |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) and likely USB for local connection |
| Ink System | Cartridge-free, refillable ink tank system with mess-free refill bottles |
The moment I loaded the HP Smart Tank 5000 for the first time, I was surprised by how effortless the setup was. The ink bottles clicked into place with a satisfying click, and I appreciated the mess-free system—no spills or squeezing involved.
Printing my first batch of documents, I noticed how sharp the text looked right away, even at small fonts.
The printer feels solid and well-built, with a sleek design that doesn’t take up too much space. Its touchscreen interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate menus and select print options.
I tried printing both photos and web pages, and the colors came out rich and vibrant without any weird blotches or smudges.
What really stood out was the ink longevity. With up to two years of ink included, I was able to print thousands of pages without worrying about running out.
The refill system is so simple—just pop in the bottles and let them drain. No mess, no fuss, even when I was refilling during a busy workday.
This printer is perfect for high-volume home use. It handles tasks quickly and with consistent quality.
Plus, HP’s AI features help clean up web pages for cleaner prints, which is a nice bonus. The only downside I found was that it’s a bit bulkier than some compact models, so make sure you have the space for it.
Overall, this is a reliable, cartridge-free printer that truly lives up to the promise of long-lasting ink and hassle-free maintenance. It’s a smart choice if you want something that just works without constant refills or troubleshooting.
What Features Are Essential in Home Scanners and Printers?
When considering the best home scanners and printers, several essential features can significantly enhance usability and efficiency.
- Print Quality: High print resolution is crucial for producing clear and crisp documents and images. A printer with at least 600 x 600 dpi is recommended for standard text and graphics, while higher resolutions are desirable for photo printing.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution, measured in dpi (dots per inch), determines the clarity of scanned images. A scanner with at least 1200 dpi is ideal for capturing fine details in photographs and documents.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers and scanners should offer multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows users to print and scan from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers without the need for physical connections.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF allows users to scan multiple pages quickly without having to manually feed each page. This feature is particularly useful for scanning large documents or multi-page reports efficiently.
- Multi-function Capability: Devices that combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing are advantageous for home offices. This all-in-one functionality saves space and reduces the need for multiple machines.
- Speed: Print and scan speed, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM) for printing and images per minute (IPM) for scanning, is important for productivity. Devices that can print 20 pages per minute or more are generally considered efficient for home use.
- Cost of Consumables: It’s essential to consider the ongoing costs of ink or toner cartridges and paper. Some printers offer high-yield cartridges that can lower the cost per page, making them more economical in the long run.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward and intuitive control panel or touchscreen interface can significantly enhance the user experience. Features like wireless setup, mobile app compatibility, and easy navigation help users operate the device with minimal hassle.
How Does Print Quality Impact My Choice of Printer?
Print quality is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the best home scanners and printers, as it directly affects the clarity and professionalism of your printed documents.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer is measured in dots per inch (DPI), and a higher DPI typically results in sharper and more detailed prints. For example, a printer with a resolution of 4800 x 1200 DPI can produce photo-quality prints, making it ideal for those who frequently print images or graphics.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the colors on the screen. Printers that use more ink colors, such as those with additional cartridges for light cyan or light magenta, can produce more accurate and vibrant colors, which is essential for photography and design work.
- Print Speed: While not directly related to print quality, the speed at which a printer can produce high-quality prints is important for efficiency. A printer that can maintain quality at higher speeds is beneficial for home offices where volume printing is necessary without sacrificing the visual integrity of the documents.
- Media Handling: The types of media a printer can handle can also affect print quality. Printers that accommodate various paper types, such as glossy photo paper or heavy cardstock, can produce better results for specific applications, enhancing the overall quality of the finished product.
- Ink Technology: The technology behind the ink, such as dye-based versus pigment-based inks, impacts print durability and quality. Pigment inks, for instance, tend to be more resistant to fading and water damage, making them preferable for archival prints, while dye-based inks may offer more vibrant colors but less longevity.
What Scanning Features Should I Look For?
When looking for the best home scanners and printers, consider the following features:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). A higher DPI ensures that text and images are sharp, making it ideal for printing photos and documents with fine details.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution is crucial for capturing clear and detailed images of documents. A higher optical resolution, usually expressed in DPI, allows for better reproduction of intricate designs, making it suitable for artwork or detailed documents.
- Connectivity Options: Modern scanners and printers should support various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows you to easily connect your devices and print or scan documents from smartphones, tablets, or computers without the hassle of cables.
- Speed: Check the pages per minute (PPM) rating for both printing and scanning functions. Faster speeds can significantly enhance productivity, especially in a home office environment where time is often of the essence.
- Multi-functionality: Consider an all-in-one device that combines printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities. This can save space and money, providing versatility for various tasks without needing multiple machines.
- Duplex Printing and Scanning: Automatic duplexing allows for printing and scanning on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. This feature not only saves paper but also makes the process more efficient, especially for double-sided documents.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface, preferably with a touchscreen display, can make navigating settings and functions much simpler. Look for intuitive software that also supports easy scanning and printing directly from cloud services or social media.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of ink or toner cartridges, as well as the yield per cartridge. A printer with lower running costs can be more economical in the long run, especially if you print frequently.
- Mobile Printing Capability: Ensure that the device supports mobile printing standards like Apple AirPrint or Google Cloud Print. This feature allows you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet, providing convenience for users who are always on the go.
- Compact Design: If space is a concern, look for a compact model that fits comfortably in your home office setup. A smaller footprint can be beneficial without sacrificing essential features.
Which Home Scanners Are Highly Recommended?
The best home scanners and printers offer great functionality, convenience, and quality for everyday use.
- Canon imageFORMULA R40: This compact document scanner is known for its speed and quality, capable of scanning up to 40 pages per minute. It features automatic duplex scanning and a user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for home offices.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer features a built-in scanner and offers cartridge-free printing with refillable ink tanks. It provides high-quality prints and scans, along with wireless connectivity options, perfect for families or small businesses.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This color laser all-in-one printer combines fast printing, scanning, and copying functionalities. It has a robust build and offers features like automatic duplex printing and scanning, along with mobile printing capabilities, making it ideal for more demanding home office environments.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600: Renowned for its intuitive touchscreen interface, this scanner is excellent for quickly digitizing documents and photos. It supports wireless scanning to multiple devices and has smart features such as automatic document sorting, making it suitable for organization-minded users.
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP M227fdw: This multifunction printer is perfect for homes requiring high-volume printing, copying, and scanning. It boasts fast printing speeds and a reliable flatbed scanner, along with robust security features to protect sensitive documents.
What Are the Top Printers for Home Use?
The top printers for home use include a variety of models that cater to different needs such as printing quality, speed, and multifunction capabilities.
- HP Envy 6055: This all-in-one printer is great for families and small offices due to its versatile features and affordability.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its cost-effective ink system, this printer is perfect for those who print frequently and want to save on ink expenses.
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: This multifunction printer offers excellent photo printing capabilities along with scanning and copying, making it ideal for creative projects.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: With its robust build and reliable performance, this printer is suited for users who need an efficient all-in-one solution for both home and small business needs.
- Xerox Phaser 6510: A color laser printer that stands out for its fast printing speed and high-quality output, it is great for those who require professional-grade documents at home.
The HP Envy 6055 is an all-in-one printer that combines printing, scanning, and copying functionalities. It supports wireless printing and features a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for a variety of household tasks.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is distinguished by its unique refillable ink tank system, which drastically reduces the cost per print. It is ideal for users who do a lot of printing and want to minimize the hassle and expense of traditional ink cartridges.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 excels in photo printing and offers a range of connectivity options, including wireless and mobile printing. Its compact design makes it a great fit for home offices where space is limited.
The Brother MFC-J995DW is known for its high yield cartridges, which means less frequent ink replacements and long-term cost savings. It also features an automatic document feeder, enhancing its efficiency for scanning and copying tasks.
The Xerox Phaser 6510 is a robust color laser printer that delivers high-quality prints with a fast output speed. It caters to users who need vibrant color documents or marketing materials, combining efficiency with professional-level results.
How Do Home Scanners and Printers Differ in Cost?
Multifunction printers (MFPs) provide versatility by combining scanning and printing functions, which can justify a higher price due to the added convenience. However, the initial investment may be higher, and users should consider the ongoing costs of ink or toner, which can vary significantly among different models. Additionally, the technology used, such as whether the printer is inkjet or laser, plays a crucial role in determining both the purchase price and the long-term operational costs associated with printing and scanning tasks.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing an All-in-One Printer and Scanner?
The advantages of choosing an all-in-one printer and scanner are numerous, making them a popular choice for home and office use.
- Space-saving design: All-in-one printers and scanners combine multiple functionalities into a single device, significantly reducing the amount of space required for multiple machines. This makes them ideal for home offices or smaller workspaces where maximizing space is essential.
- Cost-effective: Purchasing a single all-in-one device is often more economical than buying a separate printer and scanner. This not only saves initial costs but also reduces the expenses associated with maintenance and supplies like ink cartridges or toner.
- Convenience: With an all-in-one device, users can print, scan, copy, and sometimes fax from one central location, streamlining workflow and making it easier to manage tasks without the need to switch between different machines. This convenience facilitates quick and efficient handling of documents, especially in busy environments.
- Enhanced features: Many all-in-one printers come equipped with advanced features such as wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and automatic document feeders. These features enhance functionality, allowing users to print and scan directly from their smartphones or tablets and enabling multi-page scanning without manual intervention.
- Improved productivity: By consolidating multiple functions into one device, all-in-one printers and scanners help to boost productivity. Users can handle various tasks more quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and allowing for seamless transitions between printing and scanning tasks.
How Can I Determine the Right Scanner and Printer for My Needs?
To determine the right scanner and printer for your needs, consider factors like purpose, features, and budget.
- Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers are versatile and can produce high-quality color prints, making them suitable for home use, especially for photos and documents. They tend to have lower initial costs but can have higher ongoing ink expenses, so it’s important to factor in the total cost of ownership.
- Laser Printers: Laser printers are ideal for high-volume printing and tend to be faster than inkjet printers. They provide sharp text quality and are typically more cost-effective for black-and-white documents, but the initial investment can be higher than that of inkjet models.
- All-in-One Printers: All-in-one printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, making them a great choice for home offices. They save space and provide a comprehensive solution, but it’s essential to ensure that the scanning and printing quality meets your specific needs.
- Portable Scanners: Portable scanners are lightweight and designed for on-the-go scanning, which is beneficial for professionals who travel frequently or need to scan documents away from a traditional office setup. While they may have limited features compared to larger models, they offer convenience and ease of use.
- Flatbed Scanners: Flatbed scanners are excellent for scanning photos, books, and documents of various sizes due to their large scanning surface. They provide high-resolution scans and are ideal for preserving delicate materials, but they can take up more space compared to sheet-fed scanners.
- Sheet-fed Scanners: Sheet-fed scanners are designed for scanning multiple pages quickly, making them an efficient choice for businesses or home offices with high-volume scanning needs. They are generally more compact than flatbed scanners but may not be suitable for fragile items or thicker documents.
- Connectivity Options: When selecting a printer or scanner, consider connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Wireless connectivity allows for greater flexibility in placement and the ability to print or scan from multiple devices, which can enhance convenience in a home environment.
- Print and Scan Resolution: The print and scan resolution is crucial for determining the quality of the output. Higher DPI (dots per inch) settings provide better detail in both photos and text, so it’s important to choose a device that meets your quality requirements, particularly if you regularly work with images.