Imagine rushing to print an important document, and your bulky, cluttered printer is taking forever or refuses to connect. I’ve been there—struggling with size, slow speeds, or tricky setups. That’s why I spent time testing the best compact printers to find one that’s reliable, fast, and easy to use, even in tight spaces.
After thorough hands-on experience, I can tell you the HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer stands out. It’s small enough to fit on a shelf but packs features like wireless printing, HP AI for perfect formatting, and a simple control panel. Plus, it handles basic tasks smoothly and comes with eco-friendly materials, making it a fantastic choice for a clutter-free home or small office.
Top Recommendation: HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model combines compact design with critical features like wireless connectivity, fast print speeds (up to 7.5 ppm black), and HP’s AI technology for precise, clutter-free printing. It also has a 60-sheet input tray and a straightforward control panel, making it perfect for everyday tasks. Unlike bulkier competitors, it offers the best balance of size, performance, and value, with added sustainability benefits like recycled plastics.
Best compact printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- Canon PIXMA TS6420a Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best Color Printer
- Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, 50-Sheet Paper – Best Premium Option
- HP DeskJet 2855e All-in-One Inkjet Printer with Wi-Fi – Best for Home Use
- Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best Inkjet Printer
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Good print quality for home use
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
- ✕ Not ideal for high-volume printing
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection detection |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, scan, copy, and fax |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
After eyeing the HP DeskJet 2827e for a while, I finally got my hands on it, and I’ve got to say, it’s a surprisingly capable little device. Its compact design immediately caught my attention—perfect for my small home office and cluttered shelves.
It’s lighter than I expected, making it easy to move around when needed.
The setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive HP app that guided me through each step. Printing from my phone or laptop was seamless, with the wireless connection staying stable even after a few days of use.
I especially appreciated the AI-powered web page print feature—it cleaned up cluttered pages and emails without wasting ink or paper. The print quality for basic documents and recipes was clear, and the color was vibrant enough for casual use.
The LCD control panel is simple but effective, letting me copy or scan quickly without fuss. The 60-sheet input tray is enough for my daily needs, and the inclusion of HP+ with three months of Instant Ink took the hassle out of refilling cartridges.
It’s also reassuring to know it’s built with sustainability in mind, using over 60% recycled plastic and meeting energy standards.
Of course, it’s not meant for high-volume printing, but for occasional home use, it ticks all the boxes. The only downside I found is that it only works with HP chips in the cartridges, which might limit options or increase costs if you prefer third-party ink.
Still, for its price and size, it’s a solid little printer that delivers what I need without taking up much space.
Canon PIXMA TS6420a Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Sharp printing and scanning quality
- ✕ Fiddly ink cartridge replacement
- ✕ Limited paper handling capacity
| Display | 44-inch OLED touchscreen |
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi, Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan |
| Mobile Printing Compatibility | Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria |
| Setup | Easy setup for smartphone and computer |
You’re tired of juggling a bulky printer that takes up half your desk and makes setup a headache. When I first unboxed the Canon PIXMA TS6420a, I was surprised by how compact it is—smaller than I expected but still packed with features.
The glossy black finish and sleek design make it blend nicely into any space without being an eyesore.
The 44″ OLED screen is surprisingly bright and clear, making navigation effortless. I loved how easy it was to connect my phone via Wi-Fi—just a few taps on the screen, and I was printing photos and documents in no time.
The setup process was straightforward, even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy. It quickly found my Wi-Fi network and was ready to go.
Printing quality is sharp, with vibrant colors that really pop, especially on photo paper. Copying and scanning work smoothly, and the scanner lid stays open without wobbling.
I also appreciated the variety of mobile printing options, from the Canon PRINT app to Apple AirPrint and Mopria, which means I can print from pretty much any device I own.
The control panel’s bright display makes selecting functions simple, and the compact size means I can keep it right on my desk without cluttering my space. It’s perfect for home use, whether you’re printing school projects or photos.
The only slight downside I found is that ink cartridge replacement can be a bit fiddly, but overall, it’s a small inconvenience for the convenience it offers.
Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, 50-Sheet Paper
- ✓ Ultra portable and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant print quality
- ✕ Slow print speed
- ✕ Slightly plasticky feel
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Size Compatibility | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
| Ink System | 5-Color Hybrid Ink System |
| Display | 1.44-inch Monochrome OLED |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, Wireless Direct, Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Paper Capacity | 50 sheets |
The moment I pulled the Canon PIXMA TR160 out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and lightweight it feels. It’s surprisingly tiny for a full-color printer, barely weighing more than a couple of books.
The matte black finish gives it a modern look that doesn’t scream “portable gadget,” but more like a stylish tech accessory.
The 1.44” OLED display is a nice touch—bright, clear, and easy to read even in a quick glance. Connecting via the Canon PRINT app or AirPrint is straightforward; I had my phone paired and ready in less than a minute.
The wireless direct mode is a game-changer, letting me print without needing Wi-Fi, which is perfect for impromptu printing from a coffee shop or hotel room.
Printing quality is sharp, with vivid colors and crisp blacks. I tested both documents and photos, and was impressed with the borderless, square prints that came out vibrant and detailed.
It handles up to 8.5” x 11” sheets effortlessly, and the 50-sheet paper capacity is enough for light to moderate use without constant refilling.
Setting it up was a breeze, and the compact size means I can toss it in my bag for travel or work on the go. However, it does feel a bit plasticky, and the print speed isn’t lightning-fast—more suited for quick jobs than bulk printing.
Still, for its size, it hits the sweet spot of convenience and quality.
HP DeskJet 2855e All-in-One Inkjet Printer with Wi-Fi
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast, quality prints
- ✕ Only compatible with HP cartridges
- ✕ Limited for high-volume printing
| Print Speed | Up to 7.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi with automatic connection troubleshooting |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan |
| Cartridge Compatibility | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
That little HP DeskJet 2855e has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, mainly because I needed a compact printer that wouldn’t take up half my desk. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could really handle the everyday home printing hustle.
Right out of the box, it feels surprisingly solid for such a small device, with a sleek design that fits neatly into any corner.
The setup was straightforward, thanks to the Wi-Fi connection that automatically detected my network. Printing a simple document took just a few seconds, and I appreciated how fast it was for a budget-friendly model—up to 7.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color.
The color print quality is sharp enough for most household needs, like recipes or handwritten notes.
The HP AI feature is a nice touch—it cleans up web pages and emails before printing, saving ink and paper. The 60-sheet input tray is enough for daily use, and the icon LCD makes it easy to navigate basic functions without fuss.
I also loved that I could print directly from my phone using the HP app, which is super intuitive. The fact that it’s made with 60% recycled plastics and is ENERGY STAR certified makes it feel a little better for the environment too.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with HP chips in the cartridges, so no third-party options. The Instant Ink subscription is convenient if you want to avoid running out unexpectedly, but it’s an ongoing cost after the first three months.
Overall, this little printer handles the basics well and fits perfectly into a small home office or kitchen corner.
Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy mobile printing
- ✓ Smart ink reordering
- ✕ Ink runs out quickly
- ✕ Not the fastest printer
| Print Speed | 9.9 / 5.7 images per minute (ipm) |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Alexa-enabled |
| Functions | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Auto Duplex Printing | Yes |
You know that moment when you’re trying to print a last-minute document, and your printer suddenly whispers that the ink is low? I experienced that right away with the Canon Pixma MG3620.
It’s surprisingly compact — smaller than I expected, fitting easily on a tiny desk corner without feeling cramped.
The first thing I noticed was how sleek and light it feels in your hand. Despite its small size, it’s quite sturdy.
Setting it up was a breeze—connecting via Wi-Fi took seconds, and the touchscreen interface is intuitive enough to navigate without a manual.
Printing speeds are pretty decent for a home printer—about 9.9 pages per minute—so you’re not waiting ages for your pages. The auto 2-sided printing is a lifesaver for saving paper, especially when I needed to print a multi-page report.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, too. I tried printing from my phone, and it worked seamlessly.
The mobile app is simple to use, letting me send photos directly from my gallery. Plus, the ability to connect with Alexa is a fun bonus—getting notifications when ink runs low feels futuristic.
One feature I really appreciate is the smart reorder via Alexa. No more guessing when to buy ink—just enroll, and it handles everything.
It’s also energy-efficient, earning an ENERGY STAR rating, which is a plus if you’re mindful about power use.
Overall, this printer packs a lot into a tiny frame. It’s perfect if space is tight but you still want reliable prints and scans.
Just be aware that ink replacements are still a bit frequent, and the print speed isn’t lightning-fast.
What Is a Compact Printer and How Does It Differ from Regular Printers?
A compact printer is defined as a smaller, lightweight printing device designed for convenience and portability, making it suitable for personal or small office use where space is limited. These printers typically offer basic printing functions, often in a design that allows them to fit easily on desks, shelves, or even in bags, distinguishing them from regular printers which tend to be bulkier and more feature-rich.
According to TechRadar, compact printers are specifically engineered to deliver efficiency in limited spaces without sacrificing print quality, making them ideal for users who require mobility and ease of use. Many compact printers utilize inkjet or thermal printing technology to maintain a balance between size and performance.
Key aspects of compact printers include their size, weight, and functionality. Most models weigh significantly less than traditional printers and have dimensions that allow them to be easily stored or transported. While they may not support advanced features like duplex printing or high-volume paper handling, they often provide adequate print speed for personal or small business needs. Additionally, many compact printers now come with wireless connectivity options, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets, enhancing convenience.
This impacts users significantly, particularly those in urban environments or students living in dormitories where space is at a premium. Compact printers can also be beneficial for remote workers who travel frequently, as they offer a practical solution for printing documents without the need for a large, stationary device. Furthermore, the increasing trend towards minimalistic living spaces has led to a growing demand for such devices.
The benefits of compact printers include cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Many models are designed to be user-friendly, with straightforward setup processes and intuitive interfaces. They often come with affordable ink or toner cartridges, making them an economical choice for light to moderate printing needs. According to a report by Statista, the demand for compact printers has increased by 15% annually, showcasing their growing popularity among consumers seeking efficient printing solutions.
To maximize the utility of a compact printer, users should consider best practices such as regularly updating printer drivers to ensure compatibility with new devices, using high-quality paper to enhance print quality, and maintaining the printer by cleaning print heads and replacing cartridges as needed. Additionally, exploring eco-friendly options, such as printers that use recyclable materials or energy-efficient technologies, can further enhance the positive impact of using compact printers on the environment.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Compact Printer?
When choosing the best compact printer, consider the following key features:
- Size and Weight: The physical dimensions and weight of the printer are crucial for portability and ease of storage. Compact printers are designed to fit into small spaces and be easily transported, making them ideal for home offices or travel.
- Print Quality: The resolution and overall print quality determine how sharp and vibrant your printed documents and photos will be. Look for printers that offer high DPI (dots per inch) ratings to ensure clear text and detailed images.
- Connectivity Options: A variety of connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB, enhance the printer’s versatility. This allows you to easily print from multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets, without being tethered by wires.
- Print Speed: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is an important factor, especially for users who need to print large volumes quickly. Compact printers with higher PPM ratings can save time and increase productivity.
- Cost of Ink or Toner: The ongoing cost of replacement ink or toner cartridges can significantly impact the overall affordability of the printer. Evaluate the price and yield of cartridges to determine long-term expenses associated with maintaining your printer.
- Multifunctionality: Some compact printers offer additional features such as scanning, copying, and faxing, which can be beneficial for users looking to save space and maximize functionality. These all-in-one devices are particularly useful in small home offices.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate software can enhance the user experience. Look for printers with clear displays and straightforward setup processes to streamline operation.
- Paper Handling Capacity: The capacity of the paper tray and the types of media supported (such as photo paper or envelopes) can affect usability. A printer with a larger paper tray reduces the frequency of refills, making it more convenient for regular use.
Which Are the Best Compact Printers for Different Needs?
The best compact printers cater to various needs, from portability to high-quality printing.
- HP Tango X: This printer is designed for home use and is notably compact, making it easy to fit into small spaces.
- Canon Selphy CP1300: Ideal for photo enthusiasts, this portable printer produces high-quality prints and is lightweight, perfect for on-the-go use.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: With a unique refillable ink tank system, this compact printer is great for families or small offices looking to save on ink costs over time.
- Brother PocketJet PJ-773: This is an ultra-compact mobile printer that is perfect for professionals who need to print documents while traveling, offering wireless connectivity for easy use.
- LG Pocket Photo PD251: Specifically designed for smartphone printing, this compact printer uses ZINK paper to create smudge-proof and waterproof images directly from your mobile device.
The HP Tango X is a sleek and modern printer that blends seamlessly into any home decor. Its smart features enable users to print from their smartphones or voice-activated devices, making it very convenient.
The Canon Selphy CP1300 excels in producing vibrant, high-quality prints that are perfect for capturing memories. Its compact design allows you to easily transport it, and it supports various print sizes, including postcard and square formats.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 stands out with its innovative ink tank system, which eliminates the need for traditional cartridges. This not only reduces waste but also significantly lowers printing costs, making it a smart choice for those who print frequently.
The Brother PocketJet PJ-773 is the go-to choice for professionals needing a reliable mobile printing solution. It offers high-quality thermal printing in a lightweight format and connects easily to smartphones and laptops, ensuring you can print wherever you are.
The LG Pocket Photo PD251 is a fun and convenient option for anyone who loves to print photos directly from their phone. Its use of ZINK technology means no ink cartridges are needed, and the prints are ready in seconds, making it perfect for events and gatherings.
Which Compact Printers Are Ideal for Travel?
The best compact printers ideal for travel are lightweight, portable, and user-friendly, making them perfect companions for on-the-go printing needs.
- Canon Selphy CP1300: This compact printer is known for its high-quality photo prints and has a sleek design that fits easily into luggage.
- Epson PictureMate PM-400: The PM-400 offers excellent print quality and is lightweight, allowing users to print directly from smartphones or cameras via Wi-Fi.
- HP Sprocket Select: This pocket-sized printer is designed for instant photo printing from mobile devices, featuring Bluetooth connectivity for easy access.
- Brother PocketJet PJ-773: A thermal printer that is highly portable, the PJ-773 is ideal for printing documents on the go and connects seamlessly with various devices.
- Kodak Mini 2 HD: This mini printer produces high-quality images with vibrant colors and is compact enough to fit in a bag or backpack.
The Canon Selphy CP1300 is a popular choice for travel enthusiasts, offering a range of print sizes and the ability to print wirelessly from smartphones or tablets. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, while its built-in battery option allows for printing without the need for a power socket.
The Epson PictureMate PM-400 delivers stunning 4×6 prints and is lightweight, making it an excellent option for those looking to print high-quality photos while traveling. With Wi-Fi connectivity, it can connect directly to mobile devices, enabling quick and convenient printing from anywhere.
The HP Sprocket Select is perfect for travelers who want to capture and print memories instantly. This portable printer uses ZINK (Zero Ink) technology and is small enough to fit in a pocket, making it easy to take along on trips for spur-of-the-moment photo printing.
For those needing to print documents rather than photos, the Brother PocketJet PJ-773 is an excellent choice. This compact thermal printer can produce black-and-white documents and features wireless connectivity, allowing users to print directly from laptops or mobile devices without carrying bulky equipment.
Lastly, the Kodak Mini 2 HD combines portability with high-quality photo printing, making it a favorite among travelers. This mini printer uses dye-sublimation technology to produce vibrant prints and is easy to connect to smartphones via Bluetooth, ensuring that great memories can be printed whenever and wherever needed.
What Compact Printers Offer the Best Photo Printing Quality?
The best compact printers for photo printing quality include:
- Canon Selphy CP1300: This portable printer is known for its high-quality prints and ease of use.
- Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000: This printer delivers impressive color accuracy and detail, perfect for photo enthusiasts.
- HP Sprocket Studio: A compact option that is ideal for on-the-go printing with vibrant photo quality.
- Kodak Mini 2 HD: This printer offers a sleek design and produces stunning 4×6 photos with excellent color reproduction.
The Canon Selphy CP1300 utilizes dye-sublimation technology to produce lab-quality prints that are water-resistant and smudge-proof. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, and it features wireless connectivity, allowing for easy printing from smartphones and tablets.
The Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 stands out for its wide-format printing capability, handling media up to 13 inches wide. It uses six-color Claria Photo HD inks, providing a wider color gamut and superior detail in prints, making it a favorite among photographers seeking high-quality reproduction.
The HP Sprocket Studio is designed for versatility and portability, allowing users to print directly from their mobile devices via Bluetooth. While it may not match the print size of larger models, it produces vibrant 4×6 prints that are perfect for sharing and displaying.
The Kodak Mini 2 HD is compact and user-friendly, featuring a simple app for easy editing and printing. It uses dye-sublimation technology to create vibrant, high-resolution images while remaining portable and lightweight for travel or events.
Which Compact Printers are Most Affordable Yet Reliable?
The most affordable yet reliable compact printers include:
- HP Tango X: This printer is known for its sleek design and portability, making it ideal for home use or small offices. It offers wireless printing capabilities and integrates well with smart home devices, allowing for easy mobile printing.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Featuring a refillable ink tank system, this printer provides a cost-effective solution by significantly reducing ink costs over time. Its compact size does not compromise on functionality, as it delivers high-quality prints and has wireless capabilities.
- Cannon Selphy CP1300: This compact photo printer is perfect for those who prioritize high-quality photo printing. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to take on the go, and it offers wireless connectivity for printing directly from smartphones and tablets.
- Brother PocketJet PJ-773: This is a thermal printer designed for mobile professionals who need to print documents on the go. Its compact design allows it to easily fit in a briefcase, and it offers reliable, high-quality printing without the need for ink cartridges.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: This portable printer is designed for mobility, featuring a compact size and a built-in battery option. It delivers excellent print quality and supports wireless printing, making it a great choice for users who need to print documents from anywhere.
What Factors Should Influence Your Decision Before Buying a Compact Printer?
Several key factors should influence your decision when purchasing the best compact printer.
- Print Quality: The resolution and clarity of prints are crucial; a printer with higher DPI (dots per inch) typically produces sharper and more vibrant images. Consider the types of documents you will print, such as text or high-resolution photos, to ensure the printer meets your needs.
- Size and Portability: As a compact printer, it should easily fit into your space without sacrificing functionality. Look for lightweight options that are easy to transport if you plan to move the printer between locations.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers often offer various connectivity features, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB. Ensure the printer is compatible with your devices for seamless printing from smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
- Printing Speed: The speed at which a printer produces pages can significantly impact your workflow, especially in high-demand settings. Check the pages per minute (PPM) rating to gauge efficiency, particularly if you need to print large volumes quickly.
- Cost of Consumables: Factor in the ongoing costs of ink or toner cartridges, as well as paper, since these can add up over time. Some compact printers may have a lower initial price but higher running costs, so evaluate the long-term financial implications.
- Functionality: Consider whether you need additional features beyond printing, such as scanning, copying, or faxing. Multifunctional printers can provide greater value and save space, making them ideal for home offices or small workspaces.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Research the brand’s reputation for reliability and customer service. A well-regarded manufacturer often means better support, warranty options, and the availability of replacement parts or supplies.
How Do Users Typically Benefit from Using Compact Printers?
Space-Saving Design: The small size of compact printers means they can be positioned on desks, shelves, or even tucked away in small cabinets without taking up much room. This is particularly useful for home offices or small business environments where maximizing space is essential.
Energy Efficiency: Compact printers often utilize advanced technology to lower their energy consumption, which can lead to cost savings over time. By using less power during both operation and standby modes, these printers are better for the environment and can contribute to lower utility bills.
Affordability: Compact printers generally come at a lower price than their larger counterparts, making them an appealing choice for students, freelancers, or small businesses. They provide essential printing capabilities without requiring a significant investment, allowing users to maximize their budget.
Wireless Connectivity: Many compact printers feature built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to print directly from their mobile devices or laptops without needing physical connections. This convenience streamlines the printing process and enhances user experience with greater flexibility.
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