Finding the perfect compact desktop printer means balancing size, performance, and cost. The best overall choice is the Canon PIXMA TS4320, known for reliable color printing and versatile features. For those prioritizing portability, the Canon PIXMA TR160 stands out with its lightweight design. Meanwhile, the Brother HL-L2405W offers affordable monochrome laser printing for budget-conscious users. Each option presents tradeoffs: smaller size often means limited paper capacity, while multifunction models can be bulkier or more expensive. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these top contenders and what makes each one a smart pick.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models balance size with print quality, avoiding overly bulky designs that defeat the purpose of a compact printer.
- Laser printers generally excel for monochrome text documents, but inkjet options offer better photo quality for home use.
- Portability features like battery power and lightweight construction are key considerations in this category.
- Price varies significantly depending on multifunction capabilities; simpler models tend to be more affordable.
- Paper capacity and speed are often limited in compact models, so consider your volume needs carefully.
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan |  | Best Overall Compact Desktop Printer | Printer Type: All-in-one inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Media Size: Up to 8.5″ x 11″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for Home Use, White |  | Best for Basic Home Printing | Print Speed (Black): 7.7 images per minute | Print Speed (Color): 4 images per minute | Display: 1.5-inch LCD screen | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing |  | Best for Speed and Volume in Monochrome Printing | Print Speed: 30 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR160 Color Wireless Portable Printer |  | Best Portable Compact Printer | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Wireless Direct | Print Size: Up to 8.5” x 11” | Display: 1.44” OLED | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8” Color Display |  | Best for Small Office All-in-One | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless, USB | Display: 1.8-inch color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Versatility and Color Printing in Home Settings | Print Speed (Black): 10 ppm | Print Speed (Color): 7 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 100 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best for Fast, High-Volume Monochrome Printing in Small Offices | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer |  | Best for Compact, Fast Monochrome Printing for Small Teams | Print Speed: Up to 21 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | Color: Black & White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Business with All-in-One Monochrome Needs | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Basic Home Use and Light Color Printing | Input Tray Capacity: 60 sheets | Print Speed: Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex Printing |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Use | Printer Type: All-in-one inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Display: 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson WorkForce WF-110 Wireless Color Mobile Printer |  | Best for Portability on the Go | Color: White | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct | Battery: Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer |  | Best for Versatile Home Office Functionality | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless, Alexa compatible | Print Speed: Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget-Friendly All-in-One for Basic Home Use | Print Speed: 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black | Input Tray: 60 sheets | Connectivity: Wireless (2.4 GHz only) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| compact desktop printer | Connectivity | Print Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | — |
| Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless Al | Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) | — |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB | 30 pages per minute |
| Canon PIXMA TR160 Color Wirele | Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Wireless Direct | — |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless C | Wireless, USB | 16 ppm black, 9 ppm color |
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-O | Dual-band Wi-Fi | — |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | 36 pages per minute |
| HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Bla | Wireless, mobile printing | Up to 21 pages per minute |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | 36 ppm |
| HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-i | Wireless, mobile printing | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Co | Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz) | — |
| Epson WorkForce WF-110 Wireles | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct | — |
| Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One | Wireless, Alexa compatible | Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color) |
| HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All- | Wireless (2.4 GHz only) | 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer with Print, Copy, Scan
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 stands out as the most versatile option in this roundup, offering a well-rounded mix of affordability, quality, and ease of use. Compared with the Brother HL-L2405W laser model, which excels in speed and cost-per-page for monochrome tasks, the TS4320 provides vibrant color printing suitable for photos and creative projects. Its all-in-one capabilities include scanning and copying, making it ideal for small households or hybrid work environments where space is limited. The main tradeoff is its media size restriction to 8.5″ x 11″, limiting larger media handling, and its basic cartridge system may lead to more frequent replacements. This pick makes sense for those prioritizing high-quality output in a compact, budget-friendly package.
Pros:- Affordable and versatile all-in-one functionality
- High-quality, vibrant print output suitable for photos
- Easy Wi-Fi setup with mobile printing support
Cons:- Limited to 8.5″ x 11″ media size, restricting larger projects
- Basic cartridge system may require frequent replacements
Best for: Home users or students who need an affordable, all-in-one printer for versatile tasks without large media requirements
Not ideal for: Small offices with high-volume monochrome printing, as it lacks speed and bulk capacity
- Printer Type:All-in-one inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Media Size:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink system
- Features:Print, Copy, Scan, Automatic duplex printing
- Certifications:EPEAT Silver, ENERGY STAR
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for home users seeking reliable color printing in a compact form factor.”
Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for Home Use, White
The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is designed for straightforward home printing, offering simplicity with decent media support. Unlike the Brother HL-L2405W laser model, which is optimized for speed and volume, the TS3720 emphasizes ease of setup and flexibility for light tasks like copying and scanning. Its slower print speeds—7.7 ppm in black and 4 ppm in color—are acceptable for occasional home use but not suited for frequent high-volume work. The device’s support for a variety of media types, including envelopes and high-resolution paper, makes it versatile for casual creative projects. However, it only supports single-sided printing and can be slow on color documents, which limits its appeal for users requiring faster, duplex-capable devices. It’s best suited for families or individuals with minimal printing demands.
Pros:- Easy to set up and operate wirelessly
- Supports a wide range of media types and sizes
- Affordable for basic home use
Cons:- Single-sided printing only, limiting efficiency
- Relatively slow for color and high-volume jobs
Best for: Families or individuals needing occasional, straightforward printing and scanning at home
Not ideal for: Users needing high-speed or duplex printing, or high-volume tasks
- Print Speed (Black):7.7 images per minute
- Print Speed (Color):4 images per minute
- Display:1.5-inch LCD screen
- Connectivity:Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Ink Type:2 easy-to-replace cartridges
- Media Support:Envelopes, photos, banners, high-res paper
Our verdict“Ideal for casual home users who prioritize simplicity and media versatility over speed.”
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2405W is a standout for those who need fast, reliable black-and-white printing in a compact form. Its 30 ppm speed far outpaces inkjet options like the Canon PIXMA TS4320, making it ideal for home offices with frequent monochrome needs. Its large 250-sheet paper tray supports high-volume printing without constant refills, and wireless connectivity simplifies mobile printing. Unlike color inkjet printers, it avoids the complexity of color cartridges, focusing solely on speed and efficiency. The main tradeoffs are its monochrome-only print capability and the absence of duplex printing—features that may matter to users with more diverse or high-volume needs. It makes the most sense for users prioritizing speed, cost-efficiency, and volume over color printing.
Pros:- Very fast print speed of 30 pages per minute
- Large 250-sheet paper tray for high-volume tasks
- Wireless and mobile printing support
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, excluding color jobs
- No duplex printing feature, reducing efficiency for double-sided documents
Best for: Home offices or small businesses needing high-speed monochrome printing with high paper capacity
Not ideal for: Those requiring color printing or multifunction features like scanning and copying
- Print Speed:30 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Supported Paper Types:Envelopes, specialty paper
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for users who need rapid monochrome output and high paper capacity in a small footprint.”
Canon PIXMA TR160 Color Wireless Portable Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR160 excels as a portable printing solution, combining light weight with high-quality color output. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a bag, unlike bulkier models like the Brother MFC-J1360DW. It supports multiple wireless protocols, including AirPrint and Mopria, for flexible device compatibility. The built-in 1.44″ OLED display adds convenience for status updates on the go. However, its small size means it’s limited to prints up to 8.5″ x 11″ and does not specify print speeds or battery life, which could be limiting for users expecting quick turnaround or all-day portability. Nonetheless, it makes the most sense for travelers or remote workers who need to print high-quality documents or photos occasionally while away from a fixed station.
Pros:- Extremely portable and lightweight design
- Supports wireless printing via multiple protocols
- High-quality color and black-and-white prints
Cons:- Limited to small-size prints, up to 8.5″ x 11″
- No details on print speed or battery endurance
Best for: Travelers, remote workers, or students who need high-quality color prints on the go
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced printing needs, especially if print speed or battery life is critical
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Wireless Direct
- Print Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Display:1.44” OLED
- Color System:5-Color Hybrid Ink System
- Portability:Lightweight, fits in bag or backpack
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for on-the-move printing needs where portability and quality matter most.”
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8” Color Display
The Brother MFC-J1360DW offers a compelling blend of multifunctionality and efficiency for small office environments, with automatic duplex printing and a 1.8″ color display making it easy to handle diverse tasks. Its print speeds—16 ppm in black and 9 ppm in color—are suitable for moderate workloads, especially in a home office setting. The 150-sheet paper capacity is somewhat limited compared to larger office printers but adequate for most small setups. The inclusion of a toner subscription trial simplifies ongoing costs, but the device’s primary focus on home and light office use means it’s less suitable for high-volume or color-heavy tasks. Compared to the monochrome laser, it adds color capability, though at the expense of speed and higher ink costs. This model works well for users who need an all-in-one device with decent speed and ease of operation.
Pros:- Wireless and USB connectivity options
- Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- Color display and cloud app support for ease of use
Cons:- Limited to moderate print volume with 150-sheet capacity
- Slower print speeds may be noticeable during high demand
Best for: Small office users or home-based professionals needing multifunction capabilities with color printing
Not ideal for: High-volume printing or users demanding fast output, especially for large projects
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Display:1.8-inch color
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Paper Capacity:150 sheets
- Print Speed:16 ppm black, 9 ppm color
Our verdict“This all-in-one combines convenience and color capability, making it suitable for small offices or busy home setups.”
HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP Envy 6155 stands out as a versatile all-in-one that combines color printing, scanning, copying, and duplex functions in a compact form. It’s ideal for households that want a single device for creative projects and everyday documents, especially with its 2.4-inch touchscreen and wireless connectivity. Compared to the Canon TS4320, it offers more features like auto duplex printing and a more intuitive interface, but it’s slower—particularly for high-volume tasks. Its reliance on proprietary cartridges with chips can lead to higher ongoing costs and limited third-party options, which is a key tradeoff for those concerned about expense. This model is best suited for users who prioritize convenience, color quality, and integrated features over speed or cost efficiency for large printing jobs.
Pros:- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
- Wireless printing with reliable Wi-Fi connection
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial for savings
- Supports auto duplex printing
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Print speeds may be slow for high-volume tasks
Best for: Home users who need versatile color printing with scanning and copying capabilities
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume users or those seeking budget-friendly printing, due to slower speeds and cartridge costs
- Print Speed (Black):10 ppm
- Print Speed (Color):7 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:100 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.4 inches
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Sustainable Content:Made with at least 60% recycled plastic
Our verdict“This printer makes sense for households valuing multifunctionality and convenience over high-speed throughput.”
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a dedicated monochrome laser printer designed for efficiency, offering a rapid print speed of 36 pages per minute that surpasses the slower inkjet options like the HP Envy 6155. Its large 250-sheet tray and automatic duplex printing reduce the frequency of paper reloads and waste, making it ideal for small offices or busy home workspaces focused on text documents. Unlike the HP LaserJet M110w, which is more compact but slower, this model balances speed and capacity well—though it’s limited to black-and-white output, which might not suit those needing color. Its reliance on toner cartridges means ongoing costs depend on toner replacement, and it doesn’t support color printing, limiting its versatility.
Pros:- Fast printing speed of 36ppm
- Large 250-sheet paper tray for high-volume tasks
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible setup
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- No color printing capabilities
Best for: Small business or home office users needing fast, reliable monochrome printing with high capacity
Not ideal for: Users who require color or photo printing, or prefer a smaller footprint for minimal space
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Mobile Printing:Supported via Brother Mobile Connect App
- Warranty:1 year limited
Our verdict“Best suited for small offices or users primarily printing text documents in high volume without color needs.”
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer
The HP LaserJet M110w offers a compact, straightforward solution for small teams needing fast, reliable black-and-white printing. With speeds up to 21 pages per minute, it’s noticeably slower than the Brother HL-L2460DW but fits into tighter spaces, making it ideal for small desks or home offices. Its wireless and mobile printing support via the HP Smart app ensure easy setup and use. Unlike color models like the Canon TS3720, it focuses solely on monochrome documents, which keeps costs lower but limits its versatility. The need for original HP cartridges with chips can lead to higher ongoing expenses, and it’s not built for high-volume printing, so users with larger workloads may find it limiting.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces
- Fast printing speeds for efficiency
- Supports wireless and mobile printing
- Easy setup with reliable connectivity
Cons:- Limited to black-and-white printing
- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Not suitable for high-volume needs
Best for: Small teams or individuals needing fast, space-efficient black-and-white printing with easy mobile connectivity
Not ideal for: Users requiring color printing or high-volume output, due to speed and monochrome-only design
- Print Speed:Up to 21 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Color:Black & White
- Intended Users:Small teams (1-3 people)
- Compatibility:Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook
Our verdict“Ideal for small teams or individuals seeking quick monochrome printing in a compact form factor.”
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW combines printing, scanning, and copying in a compact laser device, offering speed and versatility for small business environments. Its 36 ppm speed matches the Brother HL-L2460DW, but it adds scanning and copying, making it a true multi-function unit. The 50-page automatic document feeder and multiple connectivity options—including wireless, Ethernet, and USB—make it adaptable for busy workflows. While its monochrome focus mirrors the LaserJet M110w, it provides more integrated features and slightly larger footprint. Its main tradeoff involves setup complexity and the need for compatible toner, which can add to ongoing costs. This model is perfect for small offices that want a space-efficient all-rounder.
Pros:- Fast printing and scanning speeds
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and Ethernet
- Includes mobile device management via Brother Mobile Connect
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output
- Setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users
- Requires compatible toner for optimal performance
Best for: Small business owners who need an all-in-one monochrome laser printer with fast speeds and flexible connectivity
Not ideal for: Those requiring color or photo printing, or a very simple setup without scanning or copying needs
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Includes:Refresh Subscription Trial
- Type:Monochrome Multi-Function Laser
Our verdict“Best for small offices needing an all-in-one monochrome laser with speed and flexibility in a compact footprint.”
HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2955 is designed for simple home printing tasks, offering essential color printing, scanning, and copying in a compact form. Its 60-sheet input tray and 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color speeds make it suitable for occasional use rather than high-volume needs. Compared with the HP Envy 6155, it simplifies features and reduces costs, but at the expense of slower speeds and fewer advanced options. Its eco-conscious design, with 70% recycled plastics, appeals to environmentally-minded buyers. However, the limited print speed and higher ink costs after the included trial make it less suitable for frequent or large jobs. This model is best for users prioritizing affordability and ease over high performance or speed.
Pros:- Affordable for basic home printing
- Wireless and mobile printing support
- Eco-friendly design made with recycled plastics
- Includes 3 months of Instant Ink trial
Cons:- Limited to basic printing functions
- Slow speeds for high-volume tasks
- Additional ink costs after trial
Best for: Casual home users with light printing needs who value eco-friendly design and affordability
Not ideal for: Heavy users or those printing large volumes regularly, due to slow speeds and ongoing ink costs
- Input Tray Capacity:60 sheets
- Print Speed:Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Included Trial:3 months of Instant Ink
- Energy Certification:ENERGY STAR, EPEAT
- Design:Compact, made with 70% recycled plastics
Our verdict“Suitable for light, occasional color printing at home where cost and eco-friendliness are priorities.”
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer Duplex Printing
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 stands out for delivering high-quality color prints along with multifunctionality, making it a well-rounded choice for home and hybrid work environments. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2855e, it offers superior photo quality and more advanced features like automatic duplex printing, though its small OLED display might be less intuitive for some users. Its affordability combined with mobile printing support makes it accessible, but the hybrid ink system means frequent cartridge replacements are likely, which could increase ongoing costs. For those prioritizing vibrant print quality and versatile features, this model strikes a strong balance, especially for those who print photos and documents regularly.
Pros:- High-quality color and photo printing
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Easy setup with mobile printing options
- Affordable for a multi-functional home printer
Cons:- Limited to a 2-cartridge ink system that may require frequent replacements
- Small OLED display could be less user-friendly
Best for: Home users and hybrid workers seeking a reliable all-in-one with excellent photo and document quality
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or users needing advanced paper handling—its cartridge system may become costly and slow for bulk printing
- Printer Type:All-in-one inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Display:1.42-inch Monochrome OLED
- Media Size:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Print Technology:Color inkjet
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This printer suits those who value vibrant color output and multifunctionality for moderate home use.”
Epson WorkForce WF-110 Wireless Color Mobile Printer
The Epson WorkForce WF-110 excels in portability, offering a compact and lightweight design with a built-in rechargeable battery, ideal for mobile professionals. Unlike the larger, stationary models like the Canon PIXMA TS6520, this device prioritizes mobility over high-volume printing, making it perfect for on-the-road tasks. Its Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct support ensure flexible device connections, but it uses non-genuine cartridges which could risk damage if not carefully managed. Its limited print volume and reliance on external power or extra batteries mean it’s best for light, sporadic printing rather than daily office use. For users who need to print in various locations without sacrificing quality, this model is a compelling choice.
Pros:- Extremely portable and lightweight design
- Built-in rechargeable battery for wireless mobility
- Multiple charging options including USB and AC
- Supports wireless and Wi-Fi Direct printing
Cons:- Limited to Epson Genuine Cartridges, risking damage if using third-party ink
- Small print volume without external battery accessory
- Potential higher cost per page due to cartridge restrictions
Best for: Mobile professionals and remote workers needing lightweight, on-the-go printing
Not ideal for: High-volume or office-based printing tasks—its small size and limited capacity aren’t suited for constant use
- Color:White
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct
- Battery:Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion
- Charging Options:USB, AC adapter
- Compatibility:iPad, iPhone, tablets, smartphones, laptops
Our verdict“This printer fits those who need portable wireless printing without the bulk of traditional office models.”
Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers a comprehensive solution for home offices, combining print, scan, copy, and fax functions within a compact footprint. It surpasses simple printers like the HP DeskJet 2855e by including features like an auto document feeder and borderless photo printing, making it suitable for diverse tasks. Its support for auto duplexing and smart reordering via Alexa enhances efficiency, but its print speeds are on the slower side for high-volume needs. This model’s emphasis on all-in-one versatility makes it ideal for users who need multiple functions in one device, especially those who print photos and documents intermittently rather than rapidly.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality, including fax
- Supports borderless photo printing and duplexing
- Easy ink cartridge replacement and smart reordering
- Includes auto document feeder
Cons:- Slower print speeds may hinder high-volume tasks
- Limited to home use, not designed for large workflows
Best for: Home users needing an all-in-one with fax and photo printing, especially in small offices or shared spaces
Not ideal for: High-volume environments or users demanding fast print speeds—its slower pace limits productivity
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless, Alexa compatible
- Print Speed:Approx. 8.8 ipm (black), 4.4 ipm (color)
- Borderless Printing:Up to 8.5″ x 11″
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for users who need flexible multifunction features without high-speed demands.”
HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
The HP DeskJet 2855e provides essential all-in-one functionality with a focus on affordability and reliable wireless connectivity, making it suitable for casual home printing. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS6520, it offers a simpler feature set and moderate print speeds, which are acceptable for light use. Its 60-sheet input tray and inclusion of a 3-month Instant Ink trial add value, but limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi can restrict network flexibility, especially in crowded environments. This model’s straightforward approach makes it a good fit for users with minimal printing volume who prioritize ease of use and cost savings, though ongoing ink costs should be considered.
Pros:- Reliable wireless printing with decent connection
- All-in-one functionality including copy and scan
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial
- Simple setup and low initial cost
Cons:- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- Moderate print speeds may be slow for larger jobs
- Ongoing ink costs can add up after the trial
Best for: Families or individuals with low to moderate printing needs seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly device
Not ideal for: Heavy or photo printing enthusiasts who require higher quality or faster speeds
- Print Speed:5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black
- Input Tray:60 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4 GHz only)
- Includes:3-month Instant Ink trial
- Functionality:Print, Copy, Scan
- Print Technology:Color inkjet
Our verdict“This printer offers basic wireless all-in-one features suitable for light home use on a budget.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on the size and design of each printer to ensure they truly fit in small spaces without sacrificing essential features. We prioritized print quality and speed, especially for everyday document and photo printing, while also considering ease of use and connectivity options like wireless and mobile printing. Cost of ownership, including ink or toner replacement and maintenance, played a key role. We ranked models based on a combination of performance, value for money, durability, and how well they serve different user needs, from casual home printers to more demanding small office setups.Factors to Consider When Choosing Compact Desktop Printers
Choosing the right compact desktop printer requires understanding how size impacts performance and usability. Beyond just physical dimensions, consider what types of printing you’ll do most often, whether color or monochrome matters, and if features like scanning or duplex printing are necessary. The following factors will help you make an informed decision that balances space constraints with your printing needs.Size and Design
Size is the most obvious factor for a compact printer, but it’s also important to consider how the design integrates into your workspace. Some models are truly tiny but may have limited paper capacity or slower print speeds. Others might be slightly larger but offer more features or faster output. Think about your available space and whether a lightweight, portable model or a slightly bigger, more capable device makes more sense for your setup.
Print Quality and Speed
Print quality varies between inkjet and laser models, especially for photos versus documents. Laser printers tend to produce sharper text and are more cost-effective for high-volume black-and-white printing. Inkjets excel at color accuracy, making them better for photos and color graphics. Speed matters if you print frequently; however, in small setups, slower printers may still suffice if volume is low. Balance quality and speed with your typical print job volume for best results.
Connectivity and Features
Wireless printing, mobile device compatibility, and multifunction capabilities (scan, copy, fax) add convenience but can increase size and cost. Consider which features are essential—if you mostly print from your phone, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity is a must. For occasional scanning or copying, a simple printer might suffice. Keep in mind that more features can sometimes mean more maintenance and complexity.
Cost of Ownership
Initial price is just part of the equation; ink or toner costs, replacement frequency, and maintenance can significantly impact long-term expenses. Inkjet models often have cheaper upfront costs but higher ink costs over time, especially if you print frequently. Laser printers usually cost more initially but offer lower per-page costs. Evaluate your expected print volume to choose the most economical option for your needs.
Volume and Paper Handling
Compact printers typically have smaller paper trays, limiting the volume you can print before refilling. If you print daily or in larger batches, look for models with higher capacity or consider manually refilling more often. Duplex printing, available in some models, can save paper and space but may add to the size or cost. Match your typical printing volume with the tray capacity to avoid inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are compact printers suitable for high-volume printing?
Most compact printers are designed for low to moderate volumes, making them ideal for home or small office tasks. If you need to print hundreds of pages daily, a dedicated, larger-capacity printer might be more efficient. However, some compact laser models can handle higher volumes better than inkjet counterparts, so consider your expected workload when choosing.
Do portable printers sacrifice print quality for size?
Portable printers often prioritize size and weight, which can impact print quality and speed. While many deliver decent results for casual use, they may not match the quality of larger, dedicated models. If high-quality photo printing or professional documents are critical, opting for a slightly larger, traditional desktop model is worth considering.
Is wireless connectivity reliable in small printers?
Wireless connectivity in compact printers generally works well for most users, but reliability can vary based on your home or office network. Make sure your printer supports the latest Wi-Fi standards and is compatible with your devices. For critical or frequent printing, a wired connection or Ethernet option can provide more stability.
Can I get good photo prints from a compact printer?
Photo quality depends heavily on the printer’s ink and resolution. Inkjet models tend to produce better photo prints than laser printers, especially if they support high-resolution color printing. For occasional photo printing, a dedicated photo inkjet or portable model with photo-specific settings will deliver better results than multifunction office printers.
What’s the best way to save space when setting up a printer at home?
Choose a truly compact model that fits your available space comfortably, ideally one with a small footprint and minimal protrusions. Placing the printer on a dedicated shelf or inside a cabinet can help maximize space. Also, consider models with wireless or mobile printing capabilities to avoid cluttering your workspace with cables and external devices.
Conclusion
For most users, the Canon PIXMA TS4320 offers the best overall balance of size, print quality, and features, making it ideal for general home use. Those on a tight budget or needing monochrome printing should consider the Brother HL-L2405W or HP LaserJet M110w for affordability and efficiency. If portability is your priority, the Canon PIXMA TR160 stands out for its lightweight design. For users seeking a more feature-rich experience, the Brother MFC-J1360DW provides a good mix of multifunctionality without excessive bulk. Match your choice to your specific needs, whether that’s size, volume, or advanced features, for the best results in 2026.
