The best all in one printer allows for a minimum trifecta between print, copy, scan, and fax functionality to address your paper processing needs for work, school, and play. Our evaluation criteria focused on print speeds, automatic duplexing (two-sided printing) size, and paper tray capacity. Scanning and copying should be excellent since these capabilities are often needed. Check out our best printer guide if you’re interested in more great printers.
After more than 15 hours of research and research, our top pick goes to the HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer. It offers four functions (print, copy, scan, and fax), our favorite touchscreen controls, and solid printing speeds of 8.5 PPM (black) at a very economical price.
Top 7 Best All in One Printer Compared
#1 HP OfficeJet 3830 All-in-One Wireless Printer
Award: Top Pick
WHY WE LIKE IT: This all-in-one wireless printer is a master in most areas featuring print, copy, scan, and fax functionality, HP ePrint app-compatible for mobile printing, and support for multiple paper sizes. All of the features make it a good starter printer for basic printing needs, such as homework assignments and work papers.
Read Full Review: HP OfficeJet 3830
- Auto two-sided printing
- Print from smartphone or tablet using the HP ePrint app
- Easy-to-read, 2.2 mono touchscreen
- Inserting ink cartridges is tricky
- No duplex printing
- Flimsy back paper tray
Output is solid, with print speeds of 8.5 pages per minute (PPM) black and six pages per minute (color) with a 35-sheet automatic document feeder capacity and automatic two-sided printing. Other functions of this printer include copy, scan, fax, AirPrint, wireless printing, and Instant Ink Ready, so your ink cartridges will never run out of ink. An easy-to-read, 2.2 mono touchscreen also displays printing tasks, responsive to the touch, with virtually no lag between menu selections. Check out our best sublimation printer to print on paper, letting you transfer designs to shirts.
This best home printer measures 17.72 x 14.33 x 8.54, making it a compact addition to large desks, work stands, or an inner desk cabinet. It can also retrieve and print files from popular cloud services such as Dropbox and Google Drive. This helps users avoid emailing files to themselves to save first. This is one of the best all-in-one printers you can buy, and it comes with 1 black ink cartridge.
#2 Brother MFCL2710DW Monochrome Laser Printer
Award: Honorable Mention
WHY WE LIKE IT: This laser printer is a speed demon, boasting print speeds of up to 30 pages a minute (2 seconds per page), a 250-sheet capacity paper tray for fewer refills, and a 50-sheet auto feeder. This makes it a solid choice for busier offices and paper-intensive professionals who regularly conduct presentations or create and deliver reports. This printer gives you a great cost per page, thanks to 30 pages in a minute.
Read Full Review: Brother Monochrome Laser Printer
- 30 ppm
- 250-sheet capacity paper tray
- Quiet operation
- Darker than average photocopies
- Brittle paper tray
- Low color scanning speed
The unit size is above average, weighing almost 30 pounds and measuring 16.1 x 15.7 x 12.5 inches, made taller by a large scanner lid, and has up to 50-sheet automatic document feeder to save time with multi-page scan copy and fax. Apps supported include AirPrint, Wi-Fi Direct, and Google Cloud Print, which allows for quick document retrieval from various cloud services without having to email them directly. Apart from Wi-Fi, other connectivity options include Ethernet interfaces, and you can also connect locally via its USB interface. Paper feeding is also solid, using a straight-through manual feed slot and rear paper exit to prevent creasing.
The color representation is pretty solid, with clear and crisp black text on white pages, although some shadowed areas were slightly darker than expected. Color scanning speeds could also fare a bit quicker, below average, versus our other picks. However, this may be forgiven with a 250-sheet capacity that limits the number of manual refills if you are not pressed for speed. This could be the best label printer you have been looking for.
#3 HP ENVY 5055 Wireless All-in-One Photo Printer
Award: Multiple Paper Size Support
WHY WE LIKE IT: This wireless all-in-one printer prints, copies, and scans, supporting multiple paper sizes with starter print speeds of 10 PPM for black pages and 7 ppm for colored pages. This makes it ideal for individuals in home offices with light printing needs.
Read Full Review: HP Envy 5055
- Multiple paper sizes
- Solid print quality
- Alexa and Google Assistant-compatible
- Touch screen lacks responsiveness
- Below average 10 PPM (black) and 7 PPM (color) printing speeds
- Below-average one-year limited hardware warranty
The unit sports a front-facing 2.2-inch monochrome touchscreen panel which neatly presents all of the printer’s functions in boxed format. The HP Smart app also allows you to set up and manage the unit directly from the app, make edits to scanned images, and store scanned images to one of various compatible cloud storage services.
It supports 6 paper sizes – letter, legal, 4 x 6 in, 5 x 7 in, 8 x 10 in, and No 10 envelopes, making it useful for a wide range of applications from quick photo printing to holiday envelope mailers. It can also print labels, photo paper, plain paper, and high-resolution paper. Auto two-sided printing also helps save paper with higher volume jobs. Lastly, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, with a quick voice command capable of printing out checklists and calendars. If it’s a scanner you need, read about the best home scanner.
#4 HP OfficeJet 5255 Wireless All-in-One Printer
Award: Best App
WHY WE LIKE IT: This wireless all-in-one printer allows for quick printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, with HP Smart app access to access cloud service files and 2-sided/borderless printing. This makes it useful for people who frequently save a small number of images and files to social media and cloud services to print later.
Read Full Review: HP Officejet 5255
- Duplex printing
- Prints, scans, copies, and faxes
- Compatible with HP Smart app
- Higher than the average cost
- Touchscreen show to respond
Print speeds are respectively at 10 PPM (black) and 7 PPM (color), with a 35-sheet auto document feeder, an input capacity of 1000 sheets, and multiple photo sizes supported, including 4 x 6 photos. It also supports duplex printing and auto two-sided printing without users having to manually turn sheets.
This unit measures 17.51 x 14.52 x 7.48 inches, making it suitable for easily fitting in a cabinet or on a large desk. Printing quality is respectable, with black and white print resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi and color resolution of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi. This makes it a solid choice for all types of printing projects. You may also want to check out the best printer for computer list for more choices.
#5 Canon TS5120 Wireless All-In-One Printer
Award: Best for Text Quality
WHY WE LIKE IT: This budget printer is very versatile, with print/copy/scan functionality, compact profile, and mobile printing features. This makes it a solid option for budget-minded folks looking to print on occasion, not regularly in a home office environment.
Read Full Review: Canon TS5120
- 2 paper trays
- Crisp text quality
- Excellent paper capacity
- No auto document feeder
- Below-average photo and two-sided print quality
- Flimsy paper trays
Bonus points go to its monstrous 200-paper capacity, with a 100-sheet main tray and 100-sheet rear feeder evenly splitting responsibilities, second in capacity on our list to the HP Laserjet Pro M148dw All-in-One Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer. It also supports automatic two-sided printing and commands respectable print speeds. With this Canon printer, you can easily connect your smartphone or tablet and print from your favorite devices. You can also print with this Canon from the Cloud4, Bluetooth6, and from social media.
The Canon Print app uses Pixma Cloud Link, which allows users to access photos and files directly from several cloud services, such as OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. Canon Pixma helps users avoid having to email files to themselves to save to print. The included My Image Garden software also allows users to add filter effects to their prints. Other features of this Canon include AirPrint 2, built-in Wi-Fi, and auto power on/off. The best inkjet printer list has even more options.
Note: There’s another Canon model, the Canon Pixma TS9120 Wireless All-in-one Inkjet Printer, for black and color printing with 6 individual ink and toner cartridges that provide excellent color quality. This Canon Pixma has an SD card slot, and filters to apply to your photos. The SD card reader provides more printing options from external sources besides USB, smartphones, and social media accounts. The Pixma also has mobile and tablet printing and is compatible with AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.
#6 Brother Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
Award: Best for Business
WHY WE LIKE IT: This inkjet print is a solid performer, featuring print/scan/copy/fax functionality with a generous 100-sheet capacity, 12 ppm black / 6 ppm color print speeds, and automatic two-sided printing. This makes it a solid choice for people who perform the occasional print job, not regularly conducting more volume-intensive work.
Read Full Review: Brother Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- Responsive touchscreen
- Works as a printer, scanner, fax, and copier
- Only supports letter and legal size paper
- Slow print speeds
- So-so print and scan quality
This printer offers direct connectivity options with cloud and file services like OneNote, OneDrive, and DropBox. Mobile device compatibility includes AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria, and Brother iPrint&Scan. Interfaces include USB 2.0 as well as Ethernet interfaces. The Brother Cloud app provides users access to business and seasonal templates, perfect for more creative folks. It also comes with a 1.8″ color display, is highly responsive to touch, and has organized on-screen menus to manage settings and print tasks. If you have a Chromebook, check out the best printer for Chromebook.
Supported paper sizes include letter and legal-sized paper. Refilling the printer is effortless with a 100-sheet capacity adjustable paper tray and an automatic document feeder. Our research revealed jam-free and smooth printing. You’ll want to grab a pack of the best printer paper while you’re at it.
#7 HP Laserjet Pro M148dw All-in-One Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
Award: Best for Smart Home
WHY WE LIKE IT: This laser printer is a printing beast, offering speeds of up to 30 PPM (black), a two-sided print speed of 18 IPM, and a monstrous 250-sheet input/150-sheet output ca[acity. These features make it stand out for heavy home office or small business office use.
Read Full Review: HP Laserjet Pro M148FDW
- 30 ppm
- 2-sided print speed of 18 IPM
- Intuitive HP Smart app
- Higher than the average cost
- Poor photo quality
- Confusing menu options
The HP Smart app is beautifully presented, with the ability to order toner, and access files from popular cloud services for printing. It also allows direct printing from smartphones and tablets without the need to connect to a network. Compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant allows for quick printing jobs using voice commands.
Many paper types are supported, ranging from 3 by 5 to 8 by 14 inches, including standard-sized paper, labels, and envelopes. It works well for all types of projects, from simple black text on white background prints to glossy art with a resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi. Output is solid, with black-on-white pages printing in as little as 6 seconds. If it’s a 3D printer you need, read our best 3D printer list or 10 3D printers for under $1000 that anyone can use at home today.
Beginner’s Guide to All-In-One Printers
What Is an All-In-One Printer?
All-in-one printers, also called AIO printers, are a unique type of printer that can perform more functions than just printing. These devices can also perform scanning, copying, and faxing functionalities without requiring you to purchase more devices or additional components. Depending on the specific model you buy, your all-in-one printer may also be able to perform additional functions, such as photo printing, stapling, hole punching, duplexing, and more.
You may also be wondering:
- Is there a difference between multifunction and all-in-one printers? Yes, multifunction printers are typically used in office environments and are much larger than AIO printers, which are smaller units meant for use in your home.
- What is an all-in-one laser printer? An all-in-one laser printer is one that uses lasers, electric charges, and toner to print instead of ink.
- What is a 4-in-1 printer? A 4-in-one printer is a specific AIO printer that can only perform four different functions, typically printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.
- What exactly is an inkjet all-in-one printer? An all-in-one inkjet printer is one that uses ink nozzles that spray the ink onto the paper to print.
How Do You Use an All-In-One Printer to Print Wirelessly?
If you want to use your AIO printer to make wireless prints, you’ll first need to ensure your printer offers wireless connectivity. Once you have done this, then you’ll need to connect your printer to both your wireless network and the computer or device from which you want to print. After everything is properly connected, simply hit the print button on your computer and watch your AIO printer go to work.
What Is Duplex Printing?
Duplex printing is a printing technique that allows for printing on both sides of a sheet of paper. This can be done automatically with a printer that has the ability to print on both sides of the paper or manually by flipping the paper over and feeding it back into the printer. Automatic duplex printing can save time and paper and is often used for document printing, such as reports, brochures, and newsletters.
How Long Do Ink Tanks Last?
The lifespan of an ink tank depends on several factors, including the type and quality of the ink, the printer model, and the frequency and type of use. On average, an ink tank can last for several hundred pages of printing before it needs to be replaced. However, some high-capacity ink tanks can last for thousands of pages before needing to be replaced. Also, refillable ink tanks can last indefinitely as long as you have ink refills on hand.
Where Is The WPS Code on an All-In-One Printer?
The WPS code, or Wi-Fi Protected Setup code, is typically located on the bottom or back of an all-in-one printer. The exact location may vary depending on the make and model of the printer. The WPS code is a unique eight-digit code that is used to connect the printer to a wireless network. To find the WPS code on an all-in-one home printer, look for a label or sticker that displays the code. The code is usually printed in large, easy-to-read numbers and may be accompanied by the letters “WPS” or an illustration of a Wi-Fi signal. If the code cannot be found on the printer itself, consult the printer’s manual or online documentation for more information.
Insider Tip
How Long Does an All-In-One Printer Last? The lifespan of an all-in-one printer can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand and model of the printer, the quality of its components, and the frequency and type of use. On average, an all-in-one printer can last for several years with proper maintenance and care. It is important to perform maintenance tasks such as cleaning the printer, replacing old or worn parts, and using high-quality ink and paper on a regular basis to ensure the longevity of the printer.
Choosing an All-In-One Printer
Step 1. Do You Need Multiple Features on Your Printer?
If you only use your printer for basic tasks such as printing documents and photos, a basic model with fewer features may suffice. However, if you require more advanced features, such as automatic duplexing, wireless connectivity, or the ability to print on different paper types, a printer with multiple features may be more suitable.
If you were to compare all-in-one printers and flat-screen printers, you’d find AIO options best for everyday printing and flatbed scanners and printers best for specialized screen printing. Comparing inkjets and all-in-ones comes down to a difference between a single function in inkjet printers and multi-function in all-in-one printers. The same is true if you were to compare all-in-ones and standard printers. When you compare standalone scanners and all-in-one printers, you’ll find better scanning functionality with scanners and better versatility with AIO printers.
Step 2. Do You Need a Laser or Inkjet AIO?
Your decision when comparing laser and inkjet printers ultimately depends on your individual printing needs and preferences. Both monochrome laser printers and color laser printers use toner instead of ink and are typically more expensive to purchase but more cost-effective in the long run. Laser models are also faster and produce higher-quality text documents, making them ideal for businesses with high-volume printing needs. Inkjet models are more affordable and have a wider range of color options, making them suitable for printing photos and graphics. They are also quieter and have a smaller footprint, making them a good option for home users or small offices.
Step 3. Are You Doing Mostly Wired or Wireless Printing?
Wired printers are typically more affordable and have a faster connection speed, making them ideal for businesses with high-volume printing needs. They are also more reliable and less susceptible to connectivity issues, as they do not rely on Wi-Fi signal strength. However, they require a physical connection to a computer or network, which can be inconvenient and limit placement options.
Wireless printers, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility and convenience. They do not require a physical connection and can be accessed from any single device on the same network. Depending on the model, you can even control your all-in-one using your phone. This makes them ideal for home users or small offices where multiple devices need to access the printer. However, they are typically more expensive and can be subject to connectivity issues if the Wi-Fi signal is weak.
Step 4. What Extra Features Do You Need From Your AIO?
The types of extra features you should consider for your AIO printer can vary greatly depending on your preferences and budget. Plus, you may not be able to find specific models with all of the extras you want. As you look at individual models, consider additional features like a higher print speed. AIO printers are similar to other types of printers in that certain models are faster at printing than others. Other convenient features you may want to consider include automatic duplexing, double-sided printing, stapling, an automatic document feeder, and the ability to print on a variety of different media. If you opt for an inkjet AIO, you’ll also need to compare eco tanks and ink cartridges to find the best option for your budget and preferences.
Step 5. How Much Does an All-In-One Printer Cost?
The average cost of an all-in-one printer can vary greatly depending on the brand, model, and features of the printer. Basic AIO printers may cost as little as $50, while more advanced models with additional features such as wireless connectivity and automatic duplexing may cost several hundred dollars. You should carefully consider your printing needs and budget before purchasing an AIO printer, and shop around to compare prices from different manufacturers and retailers to ensure you get the best deal. Additionally, it is important to factor in printing costs when considering the overall operating cost of an AIO printer, including replacement ink or toner cartridges.
Types of All-In-One Printers
- All-In-One Printers for Photos
- All-In-One Printers for Mac
Top All-In-One Printer Brands
- Best Canon Printers
- Best Epson Printers
- HP All-In-One Printers
Owning an All-In-One Printer
Setting Up Your All-In-One Printer
Setting up an all-in-one printer typically involves several steps, including unboxing and assembling the printer, installing the drivers and software, and connecting the printer to a computer or network. First, carefully unpack the printer and any accessories, and follow the instructions provided to assemble the printer. Next, insert the installation disc or download the drivers and software from the manufacturer’s website and follow the on-screen instructions to install them on your computer. Once the drivers and software are installed, connect the printer to your computer or network using a USB cable or Wi-Fi, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
Using Your AIO’s Different Functions
When it comes time to put your AIO printer to use, you may not be certain how to initiate any of its different functions, especially if it’s your first time. Fortunately, most all-in-one printers are user-friendly and can be quickly learned. Most AIO printers have a control panel with clearly labeled buttons or a touchscreen panel that allows you to access the printer’s basic functions, like using your AIO’s scan feature. However, you may need to consult the printer’s user manual to learn how to perform more advanced functions like faxing on your AIO without using a phone line.
Cleaning the Printheads and Nozzles of Your AIO
Cleaning the printheads and nozzles of your all-in-one printer is an important part of maintaining the printer and ensuring high-quality printing. Printheads and nozzles can become clogged with dried ink or other debris, which can cause poor print quality and even damage the printer. To clean the printheads and nozzles, first consult the printer’s manual or online documentation for specific instructions, as the process can vary depending on the make and model of the printer. Generally, the printheads and nozzles can be cleaned using the printer’s built-in cleaning function, which is typically accessed through the printer’s control panel or software. Alternatively, the printheads and nozzles can be cleaned manually using a cotton swab or lint-free cloth dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol.
STAT: – Did you know that duplex printing has become more common with time? Back in 2015, only 20% of jobs were duplex, but by 2017, that percentage had risen to 31%. (source)
Troubleshooting Problems with Your All-In-One Printer
If your AIO printer is not functioning properly, the first step is to check the device’s control panel or software for any error messages or indicators that may provide a clue about the problem. Next, check the printer’s connection to the computer or network, and ensure that the printer is turned on and properly connected. If the printer is still not working, try restarting both your computer and your printer, and check for any loose cables or connections. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to consult the printer’s manual or online documentation for further troubleshooting steps or to contact the manufacturer for technical support.
If you need to fix problems with wireless printing on your all-in-one, first check the wireless connection is strong and make sure your drivers and software are up to date. If your all-in-one will not scan, check to make sure all cables are connected and the scanner’s settings are configured properly. If there is no dial tone for the fax on your AIO, make sure all telephone cables are connected and try to reset the printer. If you need to disassemble your AIO, please check your printer’s user manual or contact the manufacturer’s tech support team.
Connecting Your All-In-One Printer
Connecting your all-in-one printer depends on the model and the way you want to connect it. If you need to connect your all-in-one to the internet, connect both your printer and computer to your home Wi-Fi network. If you need to connect your AIO to your home network, you can either connect an Ethernet to your printer and router or connect wirelessly using the Wi-Fi network. If you need to connect your all-in-one to your modem’s line, plug an Ethernet cable into the back of your AIO printer and then plug the other end into the modem.
Disposing of Your Old AIO
Disposing of your old all-in-one printer properly is important for protecting the environment and preventing potential hazards. If the printer is still in working condition, consider donating it to a school, charity, or other organization that may be able to use it. If the printer is no longer functioning, it must be disposed of properly to avoid potential hazards. Most printers contain electronic components and materials that cannot be disposed of in regular trash. Instead, check with your local government or waste management agency for information on how to properly dispose of electronic waste. Some communities may have designated drop-off locations or programs for recycling or safely disposing of old printers and other electronic devices.
