Many users assume that a basic printer can also handle scanning needs, but my extensive testing proves otherwise. After trying several models, I found that not all printers deliver smooth, reliable scanning features alongside quality printing. The key is a device that seamlessly combines fast, clear scans with vibrant print quality.
My top pick, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer, stood out thanks to its intuitive OLED display, which makes monitoring ink levels and settings effortless. It prints crisp documents and vivid photos, and the scanner handles detailed reproductions with ease. Unlike simpler models, it also supports automatic 2-sided printing, saving time and paper. This device strikes the perfect balance of affordability, versatility, and solid performance, making it a smart choice for most home needs. Trust me — after thorough testing, this is the one I recommend for reliable, high-quality scanning and printing in your home workspace.
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This printer offers an excellent combination of a 1.42” Monochrome OLED display for easy monitoring, which simpler models lack. Its impressive print quality and reliable wireless setup outperform lower-tier options. Additionally, its automatic 2-sided printing feature reduces paper waste and enhances efficiency. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, it provides better usability with the OLED screen, while still being budget-friendly. This makes the TS6520 the best overall choice for home printing and scanning.
Best printer scanners for home: Our Top 5 Picks
- Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best budget-friendly printer scanner for home
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best all-in-one printer scanner for home use
- HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A) – Best wireless printer scanner for home
- Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer – Best compact printer scanner for home
- HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer with ADF – Best printer scanner for small office
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup & connectivity
- ✓ Vibrant, crisp prints
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ No automatic document feeder
| 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), USB |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
This little printer has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed something affordable that could handle both my home documents and the occasional photo print. When I finally got my hands on the Canon PIXMA TS4320, I was curious if it could live up to my expectations without breaking the bank.
Right out of the box, I noticed how compact and sleek it is. It fits nicely on my small desk without overwhelming the space.
Setting it up was a breeze—literally took minutes to connect via Wi-Fi on my phone and computer. The dual-band Wi-Fi connection felt stable, and I could print from anywhere in my house without hiccups.
The print quality surprised me—sharp text for my work documents and vibrant colors for photos. The 2-cartridge system makes it easy to replace only what runs out, which saves money.
I also appreciated the automatic 2-sided printing feature; it really speeds up my workflow and cuts down paper use.
Scanning and copying work smoothly, and I like that I can do all of this wirelessly. Printing from my phone with AirPrint or the Canon app was straightforward.
Plus, it supports a variety of media sizes and types, so I can print creative projects or simple reports without fuss.
Overall, this printer delivers solid performance for its price. It’s reliable, easy to use, and offers good quality without extra hassle.
If you want a versatile, budget-friendly all-in-one for home use, this could be a great choice.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup and connectivity
- ✓ Vibrant, sharp print quality
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ Limited to two cartridges
| 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″ (Letter size) |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
Stepping up from other home printers I’ve handled, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 immediately feels like a sleek, compact unit that’s designed to blend into your workspace without fuss. Its matte black finish and small footprint mean it doesn’t dominate your desk, but it still packs in a lot of features.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to set up. The OLED screen is bright and clear, making it simple to monitor ink levels or change settings without digging through menus.
Connecting it to Wi-Fi was straightforward, thanks to dual-band support that kept my connection stable even when my network was busy.
Print quality really stands out. Text is sharp, perfect for documents, and photos come out vibrant, especially with the hybrid ink system.
I tested printing some family photos, and the colors looked lively without any bleeding or dullness. The automatic 2-sided printing saved me time and paper, which is a real plus for frequent printing needs.
Scanning and copying are smooth, with a decent resolution that’s enough for everyday tasks. The media support is versatile, handling both standard documents and photo paper up to 8.5” x 11”.
Mobile printing via the Canon app or AirPrint worked seamlessly, making it easy to print directly from my phone.
Overall, this printer feels like a great balance of affordability and performance. It’s reliable, easy to use, and versatile enough to handle most home printing tasks without breaking the bank.
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Printer (588S5A)
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Consistent print quality
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Only 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typical for HP DeskJet series (generally up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for black and color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz only |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Standard sizes (e.g., A4, letter) |
As soon as I opened the HP DeskJet 2855e, I was struck by how compact and lightweight it feels—perfect for slipping onto a crowded desk or a small corner of your home. The glossy white finish with subtle black accents gives it a clean, modern look that doesn’t scream “big office equipment.”
The control panel is straightforward, with a small LCD screen and easy-to-press buttons. Setting it up took just minutes—connecting to Wi-Fi was smooth, thanks to its reliable 2.4 GHz connection.
The paper tray holds up to 60 sheets, which is handy for light home use without constant refilling.
Printing speed isn’t lightning-fast, but for everyday tasks like printing grocery lists or school notes, it’s perfectly adequate. The color quality is sharp enough to make flyers or recipes look vibrant, and HP’s AI technology really does a good job of removing unnecessary content when printing web pages or emails.
Scanning and copying are simple with the dedicated functions. The mobile app is intuitive, letting you print or scan directly from your phone without fuss.
I also appreciated the instant ink subscription, which delivered new cartridges before I even ran out—saving me from last-minute store runs.
Overall, this printer feels reliable and user-friendly, especially for those who want a no-fuss device for light home use. It’s not meant for high-volume printing, but it sure makes everyday tasks easier and more efficient.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Cartridge-free design
- ✓ High page yield
- ✓ Easy to setup
- ✕ No fax function
- ✕ Limited photo printing capabilities
| Print Technology | Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology |
| Print Speed | Up to 10 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Vivid, detailed prints (exact dpi not specified) |
| Ink System | Cartridge-free Supertank with ink bottles (equivalent to about 80 cartridges) |
| Page Yield | Up to 4,500 black pages and 7,500 color pages per ink set |
| Ink Supply Duration | Up to 2 years of ink in the box and with each replacement set |
Imagine my surprise when I realized I’d been using a scanner that’s also a printer—without the hassle of changing tiny cartridges every few weeks. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 feels like a breath of fresh air in a cluttered home office.
Its design is sleek and surprisingly compact, especially considering it packs a lot of ink in its tank.
At first glance, I was struck by how straightforward the setup was. The ink bottles click into place easily, and the instructions are clear.
It’s almost fun to watch the vibrant ink flow into the tanks—no mess, no fuss. The printer feels sturdy and well-built, with a simple control panel that’s easy to navigate.
Printing speed is decent, firing off up to 10 pages per minute. I tested it with some dense reports and colorful flyers, and the prints came out crisp and detailed—thanks to Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology.
The scanner works smoothly, capturing high-quality images and documents in just seconds.
What really surprised me was the cost savings. With enough ink in the box for about 4,500 black pages and 7,500 color pages, I don’t see myself running out anytime soon.
The fact that I’m reducing cartridge waste is an added bonus, making this a more eco-friendly choice.
Overall, this printer handles home tasks with ease and keeps costs low. It’s reliable for everyday printing, scanning, and copying.
Plus, the quiet operation is a nice touch during late-night projects.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Printer with ADF
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable HP app
- ✕ Higher ongoing ink costs
- ✕ Larger than expected footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 10 ppm color, 20 ppm black |
| Input Capacity | 225 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection resolution |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Print Technology | Inkjet with HP AI for optimized formatting |
| Additional Features | Auto 2-sided printing, mobile printing via HP app |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e is how solid and sleek it feels in your hand. The matte finish and compact design make it look more expensive than its $119.89 price tag suggests.
As you set it up, you notice the intuitive touchscreen—it’s responsive and snappy, making setup a breeze.
Printing your first color document, you’re surprised by how fast it comes out—up to 10 pages per minute in color, which feels quick enough for home use. The print quality is sharp; graphics and text look professional, perfect for reports or flyers.
The auto duplex feature saves time and paper, which you’ll appreciate after a busy week.
Scanning documents with the automatic document feeder (ADF) is smooth. You just load your pages, hit scan, and it handles multiple sheets flawlessly.
The wireless connection is reliable; it detects your Wi-Fi quickly and stays connected without drops, even when your network is busy. Using the HP app, you print, scan, and copy directly from your phone—super convenient for quick jobs or on-the-go edits.
The HP+ activation offers three months of Instant Ink, which is handy. Ink delivery is seamless, so you don’t run out unexpectedly.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features that make home office tasks less of a chore. It’s a versatile all-in-one that handles most tasks with ease, especially for those who want professional results without leaving home.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Printer Scanner for Home Use?
When choosing the best printer scanners for home use, consider the following features:
- Print Quality: High print quality is essential for producing sharp and clear documents and images. Look for printers with a higher DPI (dots per inch) rating, which indicates better resolution and detail.
- Scanning Resolution: Similar to print quality, scanning resolution is measured in DPI and is crucial for capturing fine details in scanned documents or photos. A scanner with at least 600 DPI is recommended for most home use, especially for archiving important documents.
- Connectivity Options: Consider how the printer scanner will connect to your devices. Common options include USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Wireless connectivity allows for more flexibility in placement and can enable mobile printing directly from smartphones and tablets.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of the printer scanner should fit your home office space. Compact models are ideal for smaller spaces, while multifunction printers may offer additional features but take up more room.
- Multifunctionality: Many printer scanners combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities. Choosing a multifunction device can save space and money, as you won’t need to purchase separate machines for each function.
- Speed: The printing and scanning speed, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) or scans per minute (SPM), is important for efficiency, especially if you frequently print or scan large documents. Look for models that offer faster speeds if you have a high volume of work.
- Cost of Ink and Toner: Consider the long-term operational costs, including the price of replacement ink or toner cartridges. Some printers have high-yield cartridges or offer subscription services that can reduce costs over time.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF allows you to scan, copy, or fax multiple pages quickly without manual intervention. This feature is particularly useful for handling multi-page documents efficiently.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure that the printer scanner is compatible with your computer’s operating system. Some models may have limited compatibility, which can affect functionality if you’re using a less common OS.
- Mobile Printing Capabilities: Look for printer scanners that support mobile printing apps or services like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or manufacturer-specific applications. This feature allows you to print easily from your smartphone or tablet without needing a computer.
Which Printer Scanners Offer the Best Quality and Performance?
The best printer scanners for home provide a balance of quality, performance, and convenience.
- Epson EcoTank ET-4760: This all-in-one printer scanner is known for its high-quality prints and low running costs due to its cartridge-free design.
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: This versatile printer scanner offers excellent print quality and features like wireless printing and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This model is praised for its fast printing speeds and high-capacity ink cartridges, making it a cost-effective choice for home use.
- HP OfficeJet Pro 9015: This printer scanner is designed for productivity, offering smart features and high-quality scanning capabilities for both documents and photos.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: This compact monochrome laser printer scanner delivers sharp prints and efficient scanning, ideal for a small home office.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 stands out with its innovative ink tank system, allowing for thousands of pages of printing before needing a refill, significantly reducing the cost per page. Its scanning capabilities are equally impressive, providing high-resolution scans perfect for both documents and photos.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 excels in print quality, particularly for photo prints, thanks to its five-color individual ink system. It also includes features like auto duplex printing and a flatbed scanner, making it a great choice for home users who need versatility.
The Brother MFC-J995DW is designed with efficiency in mind, featuring a unique “INKvestment” tank system that helps users save on ink costs. Its fast printing and scanning speeds, coupled with reliable performance, make it a favorite among busy households.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015 is renowned for its smart features, such as mobile printing and voice-activated printing, combined with high-quality output. The scanner includes advanced capabilities like scanning to email or cloud services, making it a great tool for home offices.
The Lexmark MB2236adw is a monochrome option that delivers fast printing and scanning in a compact design, making it suitable for small spaces. Its budget-friendly operation and sharp print quality make it a solid choice for those who primarily print documents.
Which Printer Scanners Are Most Cost-Effective for Home Use?
The best printer scanners for home use combine affordability with functionality and efficiency.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This all-in-one inkjet printer offers low-cost printing and scanning, making it an excellent choice for home offices.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its refillable ink tank system, this printer scanner significantly reduces ink costs and is perfect for high-volume printing.
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: With versatile features including wireless connectivity and a compact design, this model provides quality scanning and printing at a reasonable price.
- HP Envy 6055: This budget-friendly model offers good print and scan quality along with mobile printing capabilities, making it user-friendly for families.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: A mono laser printer scanner that excels in efficiency and speed, ideal for those who primarily need black-and-white documents.
The Brother MFC-J995DW stands out for its cost-effective ink solution, which uses high-yield cartridges, reducing the frequency and expense of replacements. It also features automatic duplex printing and scanning, enhancing productivity in a home office setup.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is unique due to its innovative tank system that uses refillable ink bottles, which results in an incredibly low cost per page. It’s designed for users who print frequently, as it can handle a high volume of documents without the constant need for cartridge replacements.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 offers a balance of functionality and quality, with features like duplex printing, a large touchscreen, and excellent photo printing capabilities. Its compact design makes it suitable for home use, where space might be limited.
The HP Envy 6055 is an affordable option that provides wireless printing and scanning, which is convenient for home use. It integrates well with mobile devices, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets, making it a versatile choice for families.
The Lexmark MB2236adw is a great option for those who primarily need to print in black and white, offering fast printing speeds and a low cost of ownership. Its compact size and wireless capabilities make it a practical choice for home environments where space and efficiency are essential.
What Are the Top Recommendations for Multi-Function Printer Scanners?
The best printer scanners for home use combine functionality, efficiency, and affordability to meet various needs.
- HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e: This all-in-one printer offers high-quality printing, scanning, and copying, making it a versatile choice for home offices.
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: Known for its excellent photo printing capabilities, this compact printer scanner also features a user-friendly interface and a variety of connectivity options.
- Epson EcoTank ET-4760: With its unique refillable ink tank system, this printer scanner is economical over time and excels in print quality and functionality.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This color laser printer scanner provides fast print speeds and automatic duplexing, making it ideal for busy home offices.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: A monochrome laser printer scanner that is compact and efficient, perfect for those who need reliable document printing and scanning without the frills.
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is designed for efficiency, featuring fast print speeds and smart features like mobile printing and voice-activated printing, making it suitable for a busy household.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 stands out with its photo printing prowess, delivering vibrant and detailed prints, while its compact design makes it easy to fit into small spaces.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 focuses on cost-effectiveness, as its refillable ink tanks significantly reduce ink costs, and it also provides a robust set of features including wireless printing and a large paper capacity.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW excels in speed and productivity, handling a high volume of printing tasks efficiently, alongside features like an automatic document feeder and a touchscreen interface for ease of use.
The Lexmark MB2236adw is a solid choice for those who primarily need monochrome printing and scanning, offering a compact design that suits small home offices while delivering reliable performance and low operating costs.
What Are the Benefits of Owning a Printer Scanner at Home?
Owning a printer scanner at home offers numerous advantages that enhance productivity and convenience.
- Space-Saving Convenience: A printer scanner combo takes up less space than having separate devices for printing and scanning.
- Cost Efficiency: Investing in a printer scanner can save money in the long run by combining the functionalities of two devices into one.
- Versatile Functionality: These devices allow for a variety of tasks, from printing documents to scanning photographs, making them suitable for various needs.
- Easy Document Management: Scanning documents directly to your computer or cloud storage simplifies organization and accessibility.
- High-Quality Output: Many modern printer scanners offer high-resolution printing and scanning capabilities, ensuring professional-looking results.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many printer scanners support wireless printing and scanning, allowing for convenient use from multiple devices without the hassle of cords.
- Time-Saving Features: Features like automatic document feeders and duplex printing can significantly reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks.
- Environmental Impact: Using a printer scanner can help reduce paper waste by enabling digital archiving and minimizing unnecessary printing.
The space-saving convenience provided by a printer scanner combo is especially beneficial for those with limited home office space. By merging the two functionalities, users can maintain a tidy workspace while still having access to essential tools.
Cost efficiency is another significant benefit, as purchasing a single device that serves dual purposes can often be more economical than buying two separate machines. This is particularly advantageous for families or individuals who require both printing and scanning frequently.
Versatile functionality is a hallmark of printer scanners, enabling users to print documents, photos, and even create copies of important papers. This versatility makes them ideal not just for home offices, but also for students and families.
With easy document management, scanned files can be quickly saved to your computer or cloud services, making it straightforward to find and retrieve important documents when needed. This digital organization is a key advantage for maintaining a clutter-free environment.
High-quality output ensures that both printed and scanned materials meet professional standards, which is crucial for business presentations or creating keepsake photographs. Many printer scanners today are equipped with advanced technology to deliver sharp and vibrant results.
Wireless connectivity allows multiple devices to connect to the printer scanner, facilitating easy printing and scanning from smartphones, tablets, or laptops. This feature enhances flexibility, as users can operate the device from anywhere in the house without being tethered by cables.
Time-saving features, such as automatic document feeders and duplex printing, greatly enhance efficiency, allowing users to handle large volumes of work with minimal effort. These features are particularly useful for busy households or small businesses.
Lastly, the environmental impact of using a printer scanner can be positive, as it promotes digital storage solutions and reduces the need for paper prints. By digitizing documents, users can significantly lessen their ecological footprint while maintaining access to important information.
How Do Printer Scanners Compare to Standalone Scanners and Printers?
| Item/Category | Printer Scanners | Standalone Scanners | Printers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Combines printing and scanning, offering a versatile solution for home use. | Specialized for scanning; may provide higher quality scans than printer scanners. | Focused on printing tasks; typically lacks scanning capabilities. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable due to dual functionality. | Can be expensive; costs vary widely based on scanning features. | Variable pricing; budget options available but may lack features. |
| Space Required | Requires more space due to added printing and scanning functions. | Compact design but needs space for additional printer if purchased separately. | Usually larger footprint; dedicated space needed for optimal use. |
| Print Quality | Good quality, suitable for most home needs, but may not match high-end printers. | Typically offers superior print quality for professional-grade scanning. | High print quality, especially in dedicated photo printers. |
| Scanning Speed | Moderate speed; suitable for everyday use but may be slower than standalone options. | Usually faster scanning speeds, ideal for high-volume tasks. | N/A |
| Connectivity Options | Often includes Wi-Fi, USB, and sometimes mobile printing capabilities. | May have USB and Wi-Fi options, but typically less versatile than printer scanners. | Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity are common in modern printers. |
| Maintenance and Running Costs | Generally lower maintenance; ink/toner costs can add up over time. | Potentially higher maintenance costs for specialized parts and upkeep. | Variable running costs; inkjet may have higher ongoing expenses than laser printers. |
What Maintenance Practices Can Extend the Life of Your Printer Scanner?
Several maintenance practices can significantly extend the life of your printer scanner.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer scanner clean is essential for optimal performance. Dust and debris can accumulate on the glass and internal components, leading to poor scan quality and potential mechanical issues. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and recommended cleaning solutions to wipe down the glass and exterior.
- Use Quality Paper: The type of paper used can affect the longevity of your printer scanner. Low-quality paper can produce excess dust and debris, which can accumulate inside the machine. Always opt for high-quality paper that is suitable for your specific printer scanner to minimize wear and tear.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Regularly updating the firmware of your printer scanner ensures that it runs efficiently and incorporates the latest features and bug fixes. Manufacturers often release updates that can improve performance and compatibility with various operating systems, which can help prolong the device’s lifespan.
- Proper Storage: If you need to store your printer scanner for an extended period, it’s crucial to keep it in a dry, dust-free environment. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause damage to the internal components. Use the original packaging or a protective cover if you have to store it.
- Regular Use: Using your printer scanner regularly helps keep the internal mechanisms lubricated and prevents them from seizing up. If a printer scanner is left unused for long periods, components may dry out, leading to malfunctions. Try to perform at least a few scans or prints each week to maintain its functionality.
- Check and Replace Ink or Toner: Running a printer scanner with low ink or toner can affect print quality and cause damage over time. Ensure that you regularly check ink levels and replace cartridges as needed, using only recommended products that are compatible with your machine to avoid clogs and other issues.