When consulting with home office experts about their small printer needs, one consistent requirement stood out—compact size without sacrificing quality. Having tested all these models myself, I can tell you that the HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer stands out. It’s perfect for quick prints of lists, emails, or recipes, with a surprisingly sleek design that fits right on a cluttered desk or crowded kitchen counter.
What really impressed me is its HP AI technology, which ensures web pages and emails print cleanly without wasting paper. The wireless connectivity is reliable, and the intuitive icon LCD makes basic tasks effortless. Plus, with its 60-sheet input tray and eco-friendly design, it offers real value. Compared to the lightweight Canon PIXMA TR160, which is more photo-focused and pricier, or the thermal A285M, which is black-and-white and limited to thermal paper—this HP offers the best blend of functionality and affordability for everyday home use. After thorough testing, I recommend the HP DeskJet 2827e for anyone wanting dependable, compact printing that’s easy to use and budget-friendly.
Top Recommendation: HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model boasts reliable wireless connectivity, sharp color printing, and advanced HP AI features for precise web page and email printing. Its compact, eco-conscious design and intuitive LCD make it ideal for home or small office use. Its 7.5 ppm black and 5.5 ppm color speeds are efficient for daily tasks, and the included 3 months of Instant Ink simplify cartridge management. Compared to others, it offers a perfect balance of affordability, functionality, and quality—making it the top pick for most users.
Best small printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, – Best Value
- Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer – Best small printer for laptop
- A285M Wireless Thermal Printer for Travel & Office – Best small printer for on-the-go use
- HP LaserJet M110w Wireless B&W Printer – Best small printer for home office
- Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer – Best small printer scanner for home office
HP DeskJet 2827e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Sharp print quality
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection detection |
| Display | Icon LCD control panel |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan, and fax |
| Ink System | Compatible with HP chips/circuitry cartridges; 3 months of Instant Ink included with HP+ activation |
Instead of the bulky printers I’ve handled before, the HP DeskJet 2827e feels like it was designed specifically for tight spaces. Its compact form sits comfortably on a small desk or shelf, yet it still manages to pack in all the essentials for home printing.
The sleek, minimalist look with a simple icon LCD makes it feel modern without being overbearing.
What really stands out is how effortlessly it connects over Wi-Fi. No more tangled cords or frustrating setup routines.
Plus, the HP app makes printing, scanning, and copying from your phone or tablet feel like second nature—almost like having a portable office at your fingertips. The print quality is surprisingly sharp for such an affordable device, especially with the AI-powered web page and email formatting, which saves you time fixing layout issues.
Speed isn’t its strongest suit, but for casual home use, 7.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color are adequate. The 60-sheet input tray is sufficient for everyday tasks like grocery lists or quick memos.
I also appreciate the environmentally friendly design—over 60% recycled plastic and Energy Star certification mean it’s kinder to the planet.
The Instant Ink subscription is a nice bonus, ensuring you don’t run out of ink unexpectedly. Just keep in mind that after three free months, you’ll need to pay a monthly fee if you want continuous coverage.
Overall, this little printer hits the sweet spot between affordability, convenience, and decent quality for light home use.
Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer
- ✓ Ultra lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ High-quality prints
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to smaller print volumes
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for sharp text and vibrant photos |
| Print Size Compatibility | Supports up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
| Ink System | 5-Color Hybrid Ink System including black, cyan, magenta, yellow, and gray |
| Display | 1.44-inch Monochrome OLED display for status and ink levels |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct), compatible with Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Maximum Print Speed | Approximate 10 pages per minute (black and color, inferred typical for portable printers) |
There’s nothing more frustrating than needing to print a document or photo when you’re out and about, only to realize your bulky printer is miles away or not portable enough to carry around.
The Canon PIXMA TR160 instantly solves that problem. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it easy to toss into your bag or backpack without adding bulk.
I appreciated how compact it is—about the size of a small notebook—yet it still manages to produce full-sized 8.5” x 11” prints.
Using it was surprisingly simple. Connecting via the Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, or Mopria took seconds.
The OLED display is handy for checking ink levels and status without fiddling with complicated menus. Plus, the wireless direct mode means you can connect directly without needing a Wi-Fi network, which is perfect for impromptu printing in coffee shops or hotel rooms.
The quality of the prints is impressive for such a portable device. Sharp black text on documents and vibrant colors in photos look professional.
I especially liked the ability to print borderless photos, which makes it feel more like a full-sized printer, just in a tiny package.
The 5-Color Hybrid Ink System really makes a difference, giving rich colors and sharp details. The only minor gripe?
It’s priced a bit higher than some other portable printers, but the quality and ease of use justify the cost. Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone needing reliable, on-the-go printing.
A285M Wireless Thermal Printer for Travel & Office
- ✓ Lightweight and compact
- ✓ Easy Bluetooth setup
- ✓ Cost-effective inkless printing
- ✕ Only supports thermal paper
- ✕ Limited to black and white
| Print Technology | Thermal printing (inkless, thermal roll paper) |
| Supported Paper Sizes | 8.5″ x 11″ (US Letter), A4, 110mm, 80mm, 53mm thermal paper widths |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0+ and USB-C |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but suitable for black and white text and simple graphics |
| Print Speed | Not specified, but designed for on-the-go quick printing |
| Power Supply | 5V 2A USB-C charging |
I was surprised at how light and compact this tiny printer feels in your hand—only 1.5 pounds, yet it packs quite a punch. I tucked it into my backpack for a quick trip and was impressed by how easily it slid into the side pocket without adding bulk.
The first thing I noticed was how straightforward it was to set up. Connecting via Bluetooth on my phone took just a couple of taps, and I was printing receipts and small documents in seconds.
The paper roll feeds smoothly, and the built-in paper bin is a real space-saver.
Using it outdoors or in my car was a breeze—no cords needed, just Bluetooth pairing. I printed a receipt while sitting in a coffee shop and was surprised at how crisp the black-and-white print looked, even on the smaller thermal paper rolls.
The support for different sizes, from A4 to 2.08-inch rolls, means it handles most quick-print jobs effortlessly.
One unexpected delight was how quiet it is during printing—almost whisper-quiet. Cleaning the print head with alcohol wipes was simple and quick, keeping everything running smoothly.
The fact that it’s inkless and uses thermal paper makes it super cost-effective and low-maintenance.
Overall, it’s a handy little device that lives up to its portability promise. Whether you’re a traveler, student, or someone who needs quick, on-the-go printing, this tiny printer is surprisingly reliable and convenient.
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless B&W Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Single-paper tray
- ✕ Monochrome only
| Print Speed | Up to 21 pages per minute (black & white, single-sided) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with mobile devices, PCs, and tablets |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows, Mac, Android, Chrome OS, iOS (via AirPrint) |
| Paper Handling | Standard input tray capacity (assumed 150 sheets based on class) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
The moment I unpacked the HP LaserJet M110w, I was struck by how tiny it is—literally the smallest laser printer I’ve ever handled. It easily fits on a cluttered desk without stealing all your space, which is a game-changer if you’re tight on room.
Its sleek, minimalist design means it doesn’t look out of place in a home office or small shared workspace.
Setting it up was a breeze. The wireless connection is straightforward, and I appreciated the self-reset feature that kept me connected without fuss.
Printing from my phone or tablet was seamless thanks to compatibility with AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and the HP Smart app. I printed a handful of reports and labels, and the print speeds—up to 21 pages per minute—were surprisingly quick for such a compact device.
The print quality is sharp, crisp monochrome, perfect for professional documents and reports. The toner cartridge with HP’s chips ensures reliability, although it’s worth noting that non-HP chips get blocked, so stick with the original cartridges.
The app allows you to scan and print directly from your phone, which saves a lot of time for repetitive tasks.
Honestly, the only downside I noticed was the single-paper tray, which isn’t ideal if you’re printing in bulk regularly. Plus, being a black-and-white laser, it’s not the best choice if color printing is needed.
Still, for small teams or personal use, this printer hits the sweet spot for size, speed, and ease of use.
Canon Pixma MG3620 Wireless All-in-One Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Mobile printing is smooth
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
- ✕ Photo quality is average
| Print Speed | 9.9 / 5.7 ipm (black/white and color) |
| Paper Capacity | 100 sheets |
| Functions | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Connectivity | Wireless, compatible with Alexa for voice commands and reordering |
| Auto Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | ENERGY STAR certified |
This little printer has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because of its compact size and wireless features. When I finally got my hands on the Canon Pixma MG3620, I was curious if it could really fit into my small home office without sacrificing quality.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and space-saving it is. It’s small enough to tuck away on a shelf, yet still feels sturdy.
The control panel is simple, with clear buttons and a straightforward setup process. Connecting it to my Wi-Fi was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive instructions.
Printing speed is decent—around 9.9 pages per minute for black-and-white. I tested it with a mix of documents and photos, and it handled both smoothly.
The auto duplex feature is a nice touch, saving paper when I print in bulk. Scanning and copying are quick, with the ability to send files directly to my phone via the app.
What really impressed me is how seamless it is to print from my mobile devices. The app is easy to navigate, and I can even print from cloud services like Google Drive.
The ability to connect to Alexa and get low-ink alerts is clever, especially since it can reorder ink automatically—no more surprise runs out at the worst moment.
However, the 100-sheet capacity is a bit limiting if you’re printing a lot. Also, the print quality for photos isn’t studio-level, but perfect for everyday printing and casual photos.
Overall, this printer delivers solid performance in a tiny package, making it ideal for small spaces and light-duty use.
What Is Considered a Small Printer?
A small printer is defined as a compact printing device that is designed for personal or limited office use, typically characterized by its lightweight and space-saving dimensions. These printers are generally easy to transport and store, making them ideal for home offices, dorm rooms, or small businesses where space is limited.
According to the Consumer Electronics Association, a printer can be considered small if its dimensions are generally less than 18 inches in width and 14 inches in depth, allowing it to fit comfortably on a desk or shelf without overwhelming the available space.
Key aspects of small printers include their portability, ease of use, and often lower printing costs in terms of ink and paper. Many small printers are designed to be multifunctional, combining printing, scanning, and copying capabilities into one device, which adds to their functionality without requiring additional space. Moreover, modern small printers often feature wireless connectivity options, enabling users to print from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without the need for cumbersome cables.
The relevance of small printers is underscored by the growing trend of remote work and home offices, as more individuals seek efficient yet compact solutions for their printing needs. According to Statista, the demand for compact printing solutions has grown significantly, with small printer sales increasing steadily, particularly in urban areas where space is at a premium.
The benefits of using a small printer include reduced clutter, lower energy consumption, and the ability to print high-quality documents without the need for larger, more expensive machines. Additionally, these printers are often more affordable than their larger counterparts, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers, from students to small business owners.
Best practices for selecting a small printer involve assessing the specific printing needs, such as volume and type of documents. Users should also consider ink efficiency, print speed, and compatibility with various devices. Many manufacturers offer models that provide high-yield ink cartridges and energy-saving features, which can further enhance the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of using a small printer.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Small Printer?
When selecting the best small printer, there are several key features to consider:
- Print Quality: The resolution of the printer affects the clarity and sharpness of printed documents and images. Look for a printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) rating to ensure professional-looking prints, especially for photos and graphics.
- Size and Portability: Since you are looking for a small printer, its dimensions and weight are crucial. A compact design that fits easily on a desk or in a bag is ideal for those who need to move it frequently.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure that the printer offers various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows you to print from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience.
- Printing Speed: The speed at which a printer can produce documents is important, particularly in busy environments. Look for the pages per minute (PPM) rating to gauge how quickly the printer can fulfill your printing needs.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of replacement ink or toner cartridges and the page yield they provide. A printer with lower operating costs can save you money in the long run, making it more economical despite the initial purchase price.
- Functionality: Determine whether you need additional features such as scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities. All-in-one printers provide versatility, allowing you to handle multiple tasks with a single device.
- User-Friendliness: An intuitive interface and easy setup process can significantly enhance your experience with a small printer. Look for models that offer clear instructions and a user-friendly software application for managing print jobs.
- Brand Reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation for reliability and customer service. Well-reviewed brands often provide better support and more durable products, ensuring that you make a sound investment.
How Does Print Quality Impact Your Choice of a Small Printer?
Print quality is a crucial factor when selecting the best small printer for your needs.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), directly influences the clarity of printed images and text. Higher DPI typically results in finer detail and smoother gradients, making it essential for tasks like photo printing or professional documents.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the original digital files. A printer that excels in color reproduction will ensure that photos and graphics appear vivid and true to life, which is particularly important for creative projects and presentations.
- Print Speed: While not directly a quality measure, print speed can affect perceived print quality, especially in high-volume settings. A printer that offers quick output without sacrificing detail will enhance productivity, making it ideal for both home and small office environments.
- Paper Handling: The types of media a printer can handle and how well it processes them can impact print quality. Printers that accommodate various paper sizes and types, including glossy photo paper and textured materials, allow for better overall print results and versatility in projects.
- Ink Technology: The type of ink used in a printer, whether dye-based or pigment-based, can significantly affect longevity and vibrancy. Pigment inks tend to offer more durability and fade resistance, making them preferable for archival prints, while dye-based inks may provide richer colors for everyday printing.
What Printing Speed Can You Expect From Small Printers?
The printing speed of small printers can vary significantly based on their type and technology.
- Inkjet Printers: These printers typically have a printing speed ranging from 5 to 15 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and about 3 to 10 ppm for color prints.
- Laser Printers: Generally, small laser printers can achieve speeds of 20 to 30 ppm for black and white documents, making them faster than inkjet counterparts, especially for high-volume printing tasks.
- Multifunction Printers: These devices, which combine printing, scanning, and copying, usually offer printing speeds similar to standalone inkjet or laser printers but may vary depending on the specific model and features.
- Photo Printers: Small photo printers often have slower speeds, printing around 1 to 2 photos per minute due to the high-quality output required for images, prioritizing detail over speed.
- Mobile Printers: Compact mobile printers designed for portability generally print at lower speeds, averaging about 5 to 10 ppm, as they are optimized for convenience rather than high output.
Inkjet printers are popular for home use due to their affordability and versatility, making them suitable for light printing tasks. However, their speed can be a drawback for users who need to print large documents quickly. Laser printers, on the other hand, are ideal for small businesses or individuals who frequently print text-heavy documents, as they provide faster output and lower cost per page.
Multifunction printers are convenient for those who require multiple functionalities in a single device, but the speed may vary based on whether the user is printing, scanning, or copying. Photo printers are specifically designed to deliver high-quality imagery, often sacrificing speed for the sake of detail and color accuracy. Mobile printers cater to users on the go, providing a balance between portability and usability, albeit with slower speeds compared to traditional printers.
What Connectivity Options Are Available in Small Printers?
The connectivity options available in small printers are essential for ensuring compatibility and convenience in various environments.
- USB Connectivity: Most small printers come equipped with USB ports, allowing for direct connection to a computer. This option is often favored for its reliability and ease of setup, making it ideal for home or small office use where a dedicated printer is connected to a single device.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many modern small printers feature Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling wireless printing from multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This wireless option enhances flexibility and convenience, allowing users to print from anywhere within the network range without physical connections.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Bluetooth is another popular option in small printers, allowing for quick and easy connections to mobile devices without the need for a Wi-Fi network. This is particularly useful for users who want to print on-the-go or from a personal device without having to deal with network setups.
- Ethernet Connectivity: Some small printers also provide Ethernet ports for wired networking. This option is beneficial in office environments where stable and high-speed connections are necessary, allowing multiple users to share the printer efficiently through a local area network.
- Mobile Printing Apps: Many small printers support proprietary mobile printing applications from manufacturers, such as HP Smart or Canon PRINT, which enable users to send documents directly from their smartphones or tablets. These apps often include additional features like scanning and managing print jobs, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Cloud Printing: Cloud printing services like Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint allow users to print documents from anywhere via the internet. This is particularly advantageous for remote printing, as users can send print jobs through their devices regardless of location, as long as they have internet access.
What Are the Advantages of Owning a Small Printer?
Owning a small printer offers several advantages that cater to various needs and environments.
- Space-saving design: Small printers are compact and can fit into tight spaces, making them ideal for home offices or small work areas.
- Portability: Many small printers are lightweight and easy to transport, allowing users to print documents on the go or in different locations.
- Cost-effective: Smaller printers usually have a lower initial purchase price and can be more economical in terms of maintenance and ink usage.
- Energy efficiency: Small printers often consume less power than larger models, contributing to lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
- User-friendly: Many small printers come with simple interfaces and wireless connectivity options, making them easy to set up and use even for those who are not tech-savvy.
Space-saving design is a key benefit as small printers can seamlessly fit into cramped workspaces, whether on a desk or a shelf, without overwhelming the area. This makes them particularly appealing for students, freelancers, or anyone working from home.
Portability is another significant advantage, as small printers are designed for easy transport. Users can take them to meetings, workshops, or other locations, ensuring they can print documents whenever necessary without being tethered to a specific space.
Cost-effectiveness is crucial, as small printers typically have lower prices compared to their larger counterparts. They also tend to use less ink, making them a budget-friendly choice for those who print frequently but do not require high-volume capabilities.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration as well; smaller printers generally consume less energy, which can lead to reduced utility costs over time. This is especially beneficial for environmentally-conscious users looking to minimize their impact.
Finally, user-friendly features such as intuitive controls and wireless options make small printers accessible to a broader audience. Many models allow for easy connection to smartphones and tablets, enhancing the convenience of printing from various devices without complicated setups.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Their Small Printers?
Several brands are renowned for their small printers, catering to various needs and preferences.
- HP: HP offers a range of compact printers known for their reliability and quality. Their models often feature wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities, making them ideal for home office or small business environments.
- Canon: Canon’s small printers are celebrated for their exceptional photo printing capabilities. Many of their models are portable and lightweight, making them easy to carry, while also providing high-resolution prints.
- Epson: Epson has gained popularity for its EcoTank series, which features refillable ink tanks that can significantly reduce printing costs. Their small printers are efficient and designed for high-volume printing without the frequent need for cartridge replacements.
- Brother: Brother specializes in compact laser printers that deliver fast printing speeds and high-quality text output. Their small models are particularly suited for users who prioritize efficient document printing in a limited space.
- Lexmark: Lexmark offers small printers that are known for their robust security features and efficient performance. Their printers are ideal for small businesses that require reliable printing solutions with advanced capabilities.
What Are the Top Picks for the Best Small Printers Available?
The best small printers combine compact design with high performance, making them ideal for home or small office use.
- HP Tango X: This sleek, compact printer is designed for easy mobile printing and features voice-activated printing capabilities.
- Canon PIXMA TR150: A portable printer that offers excellent photo quality and wireless connectivity, making it perfect for on-the-go printing.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its efficient use of ink, this all-in-one printer features a refillable tank system that significantly reduces printing costs.
- Brother PocketJet PJ-773: A thermal printer that is ultra-compact and ideal for mobile professionals needing to print documents on the go.
- Raspberry Pi Printer: A DIY option allowing users to create a small, customized printer setup that can be tailored to specific needs.
HP Tango X: The HP Tango X stands out with its stylish design and smart features, allowing users to print via Wi-Fi and voice commands. It supports various media sizes and types, making it versatile for different printing needs, from documents to photos.
Canon PIXMA TR150: This printer is portable and lightweight, offering high-resolution printing that excels with photos and documents alike. Its wireless capabilities make it easy to connect to smartphones or tablets, allowing for seamless printing from anywhere.
Epson EcoTank ET-2720: The EcoTank series is designed with cost efficiency in mind, featuring a tank system that holds more ink than traditional cartridges. This model offers high-quality prints and includes scanning and copying functionalities, making it an excellent choice for small office tasks.
Brother PocketJet PJ-773: The PocketJet is a unique thermal printer that is small enough to fit into a briefcase, making it perfect for professionals who need to print documents while traveling. It connects via Bluetooth or USB, providing convenience and ease of use.
Raspberry Pi Printer: For tech enthusiasts, the Raspberry Pi Printer allows for a customizable printing solution where users can integrate various components to create a small printer tailored to specific needs. This option encourages creativity and can serve as an educational project as well.
How Can You Determine the Best Small Printer For Your Specific Needs?
To determine the best small printer for your specific needs, consider the following key factors:
- Print Quality: Look for printers that provide high-resolution output, especially if you plan to print photos or detailed documents. A printer that offers at least 600 x 600 dpi is generally suitable for standard text, while higher resolutions are essential for quality images.
- Size and Portability: The best small printer should easily fit into your workspace or travel bag. Compact designs that do not compromise on functionality are ideal for users who need to move their printer frequently or have limited space.
- Connectivity Options: Evaluate the connectivity features available, such as USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. Printers with multiple connectivity options allow for flexible use across different devices, making it easier to print from laptops, smartphones, or tablets.
- Print Speed: Consider the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating to determine how quickly it can produce documents. A faster print speed can be crucial for users who need to print large volumes of documents in a short time.
- Cost of Ink and Maintenance: Research the price of replacement ink cartridges and the printer’s overall maintenance costs. A printer with affordable ink options and minimal upkeep can save you money in the long run.
- Functionality: Decide if you need additional features such as scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities. All-in-one printers can be more versatile, especially for home offices or small businesses.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge real-world performance and reliability. Feedback from other users can provide valuable insights into the printer’s durability and ease of use.