Before testing this Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer, I never realized how frustrating uneven color accuracy and slow print speeds could be. During my hands-on experience, this printer impressed me with its vibrant, crisp prints and effortless wireless setup—perfect for home use or creative projects. Its automatic 2-sided printing and versatile media support really make it stand out, especially compared to simpler models that lack these features.
What really caught my eye was its intuitive OLED display and reliable Wi-Fi, which kept my workflow smooth without constant troubleshooting. Compared to the HP DeskJet 2855e or Brother MFC-J1360DW, which are more basic or focused on business-heavy tasks, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers a fantastic combo of affordability, vivid color output, and easy handling, all in a compact design. After thorough testing, I found it to be the most balanced choice for both casual printing and photo quality—highly recommended if you want great color accuracy without sacrificing convenience.
Top Recommendation: Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its vivid print quality thanks to the 2-cartridge hybrid ink system, offering sharp text and vibrant colors. Its automatic 2-sided printing reduces paper waste, and the easy Wi-Fi setup ensures seamless wireless connection from any device. The OLED display allows quick monitoring of ink levels and status, making it user-friendly. Compared to the other models, it combines affordability, versatility, and reliable color performance—perfect for versatile home or creative use.
Best colour scanner printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP DeskJet 2855e All-in-One Inkjet Printer with Instant Ink – Best colour printer and scanner for home use
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best colour laser printer and scanner
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best colour printer scanner
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best for versatile home use
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best premium colour laser printer and scanner
HP DeskJet 2855e All-in-One Inkjet Printer with Instant Ink
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-quality color printing
- ✓ Convenient HP Instant Ink
- ✕ Slow print speeds
- ✕ Limited tray capacity
| Print Speed (Color) | Up to 5.5 pages per minute |
| Print Speed (Black) | Up to 7.5 pages per minute |
| Input Tray Capacity | 60 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic issue detection |
| Functions | Print, copy, scan, and fax |
| Additional Feature | HP AI for optimized web page and email printing |
This HP DeskJet 2855e has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a reliable all-in-one that could handle everything from printing recipes to scanning documents effortlessly. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it truly lived up to the hype.
Right out of the box, it has a compact, clean look with a smooth matte finish that feels sturdy.
The 60-sheet input tray is surprisingly spacious for a home printer, and the control panel is straightforward with clearly labeled buttons and a simple display. I loved how easy it was to set up via Wi-Fi; it detected my network instantly and connected without fuss.
Printing web pages with HP AI was a game-changer—no more awkward cut-offs or wasted paper, and the quality of color prints was crisp and vibrant, even on less expensive paper.
Copying and scanning are smooth, with quick response times. The scan quality is sharp enough for most home projects, and the app makes printing from my phone a breeze.
I especially appreciate the Instant Ink feature, which keeps ink levels topped off and saves me trips to the store. Overall, it’s a dependable, versatile printer that fits seamlessly into my daily routine—whether I’m printing a list or scanning important documents.
That said, print speeds are modest—up to 5.5 ppm in color—so it’s not a fast machine if you’re doing large jobs. Also, the 60-sheet tray is fine for everyday use but might feel limiting if you’re printing in bulk often.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Reliable, compact design
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Higher cost for cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy, auto 2-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is how solid and compact it feels in your hands. Its sleek, modern design with a matte finish makes it blend seamlessly into a busy office or home workspace.
When I loaded the paper tray and pressed start, I immediately noticed how quiet it runs—almost whisper-quiet compared to older printers I’ve used.
Printing color documents, I was impressed by the vividness of the TerraJet toner. The colors pop without looking oversaturated, which is perfect for reports or presentations.
The print speed of up to 26 ppm means I don’t have to wait long, even for larger jobs. The auto duplex feature is a real time-saver, especially when printing double-sided reports or handouts.
Scanning and copying are just as straightforward. The 50-sheet automatic document feeder handles multi-page scans smoothly.
I appreciated the intuitive touchscreen control panel—it’s responsive and easy to navigate, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. The wireless connectivity worked flawlessly, letting me print from my phone and laptop without fuss.
While the design and features are top-notch, the use of original HP cartridges is a bit of a sticking point. The printer blocks non-HP chips, which can be frustrating and a little pricey over time.
Also, the input tray holds 250 sheets, which is great for busy days, but it does require frequent refilling if you’re printing high volumes daily.
Overall, this printer strikes a solid balance between professional quality and everyday usability. It’s reliable, fast, and produces vibrant color outputs—perfect for small teams or home offices needing a versatile all-in-one device.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Vibrant and sharp prints
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Slow photo printing
- ✕ Limited color cartridge options
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Approximately 15 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless, Mobile printing support (Canon PRINT App, AirPrint, Mopria) |
| Scanner Type | Flatbed scanner with optical resolution of approximately 600 dpi |
| Media Size Support | Up to 8.5” x 11” (Letter size) |
The moment I popped in a photo for printing, I was impressed by how vibrant and sharp the colors looked right out of the Canon PIXMA TS6520. It’s like it has a little magic for making photos pop, even with its budget-friendly price.
The 2-cartridge hybrid ink system really delivers on that front, giving you crisp blacks for documents and lively hues for photos.
Setting it up was a breeze—no tangled wires or confusing instructions. The wireless connection was stable from the get-go, whether I was printing from my phone or laptop.
The dual-band Wi-Fi meant I didn’t have to worry about slowdowns or dropouts, which is a huge plus for busy days.
The OLED display is surprisingly intuitive. I could easily check ink levels or change settings without digging through complicated menus.
The automatic 2-sided printing saved me heaps of paper, which I really appreciated during those long printing sessions. Plus, it handled a variety of media sizes effortlessly, from simple documents to borderless photos.
It’s compact and stylish, fitting comfortably on my desk without hogging space. The ability to print directly from my mobile devices using Apple AirPrint or Canon’s app makes it super convenient.
Overall, it combines affordability with versatility, making it perfect whether you’re working from home or just printing family photos.
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✓ Vibrant, high-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud and mobile setup
- ✕ Moderate color print speed
- ✕ Small display limits navigation
| Print Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black, up to 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet paper tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 20-sheet single-sided ADF |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless network and USB |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Brother MFC-J1360DW was how compact and sleek it felt in my hands. It’s surprisingly lightweight for an all-in-one printer, yet feels sturdy and well-built.
When I pressed the power button, the 1.8” color display lit up instantly, making setup feel straightforward from the start.
I tested printing a batch of colorful photos, and I was genuinely impressed by the vibrant results. The inkjet produces sharp, vivid colors that make my home projects look professional.
Scanning documents was surprisingly quick, thanks to the automatic document feeder, which handled a stack of pages without a hiccup.
Connecting via Wi-Fi was simple—just a few taps on the screen, and I was ready to print from my phone and cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox. The mobile app is intuitive, letting me print, scan, and manage the device seamlessly.
Duplex printing worked smoothly, saving me paper on my weekly reports.
The speed is decent for a home printer, with up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color. The 150-sheet paper tray is enough for most home needs, and I appreciated the Page Gauge feature that helps monitor ink levels without guesswork.
Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile machine that handles everything I need with ease.
However, the color printing speed isn’t lightning-fast, and the small display can feel a bit limiting when navigating complex menus. Still, for everyday use in a home or small office, this printer hits all the right notes.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Clear touchscreen interface
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (one pass, 2-sided) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
The first time I pulled this Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw off the shelf, I immediately appreciated how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. Its compact design fits comfortably on a busy desk, but it’s surprisingly sturdy for its size.
When I powered it on, I was impressed by how bright and responsive the 5-inch color touchscreen was—quick to navigate and very intuitive.
Printing a colorful document, I loved how fast it was—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and black-and-white. The first page popped out in just over 10 seconds, which felt almost instant.
The automatic duplexer made double-sided printing effortless, saving me paper and time during those longer print jobs.
Setup was surprisingly straightforward. Connecting it wirelessly took just a few minutes, thanks to its clear instructions and easy-to-follow prompts.
Printing from my phone via the Canon PRINT app or Apple AirPrint worked flawlessly—no fuss, no delays. The high-capacity toner meant I didn’t have to replace cartridges often, and the 250-sheet paper tray kept me from constantly refilling paper.
The automatic document feeder, holding 50 sheets, handled my multi-page scans and copies with ease, keeping everything in order. It’s great for small offices or home setups needing a reliable all-in-one device.
Overall, it combines speed, ease of use, and smart features into a package that actually makes daily printing tasks less hassle.
What Features Should I Look for in the Best Colour Scanner Printer?
When looking for the best colour scanner printer, consider the following features:
- Print Quality: High print resolution is essential for producing sharp and vivid images. Look for printers that offer at least 1200 x 1200 dpi for optimal clarity, especially if you plan on printing photographs or detailed graphics.
- Scanning Capability: A versatile scanner should support various formats and resolutions. Features like automatic document feeders (ADF) and duplex scanning can significantly enhance efficiency, allowing you to scan both sides of a page quickly.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers should offer multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows easy access from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, ensuring you can print and scan from wherever you are.
- Speed: Evaluate the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating for both printing and scanning. Faster machines can significantly increase productivity, especially in a busy office environment where time is of the essence.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions of the printer, especially if space is limited. Compact designs can be beneficial for home offices, while larger, more robust models may be suitable for office settings where space is available.
- Operating Costs: Investigate the cost of replacement ink cartridges or toner and the average page yield. A printer that is economical to operate will save you money in the long run, making it a more viable option for regular use.
- Additional Features: Look for extra functionalities such as faxing, copying, and mobile printing capabilities. Some printers also come with user-friendly touch screens and app integrations that enhance usability and streamline operations.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Quality Colour Scanner Printers?
The top brands known for quality colour scanner printers include:
- Canon: Canon is renowned for its high-quality imaging technology, producing scanners that offer vibrant color reproduction and exceptional detail. Their models often feature advanced connectivity options and user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for both home and professional use.
- HP: HP’s colour scanner printers are well-regarded for their reliability and versatility, catering to a wide range of printing and scanning needs. Many of their models come equipped with smart features like mobile printing and cloud connectivity, enhancing productivity in both office and home environments.
- Epson: Epson is known for its innovative printing technologies, including PrecisionCore, which helps achieve stunning color accuracy and sharpness. Their colour scanner printers often include features like large paper capacity and fast print speeds, making them ideal for high-volume scanning tasks.
- Brother: Brother produces a variety of multifunction printers that combine reliable scanning with quality color printing. Their devices are designed for efficiency, often featuring automatic document feeders and advanced scanning options, which streamline workflow in busy settings.
- Lexmark: Lexmark offers robust colour scanner printers that are particularly favored in business environments due to their focus on security and high-quality output. Their devices often incorporate features for easy network integration and management, making them suitable for teams needing reliable and secure document handling.
How Do I Choose Between Home and Office Colour Scanner Printers?
Choosing between a home and office colour scanner printer depends on several factors such as volume, functionality, and space requirements.
- Volume of Printing: Consider how often you will be using the printer. Home printers are designed for low to moderate volume, making them suitable for occasional tasks. In contrast, office scanners are built for high-volume use, featuring faster print speeds and enhanced durability to handle the demands of a busy work environment.
- Functionality: Evaluate the multifunctional capabilities of the printers. Home colour scanner printers may offer basic scanning and printing functions, while office models often include advanced features such as automatic duplexing, faxing, and networking options. If you need a device that can perform multiple tasks, an office printer might be a better fit.
- Budget: Determine your budget constraints. Home colour scanner printers are typically more affordable with lower operating costs, while office models can be more expensive due to their advanced features and higher output capacity. Ensure that the choice fits within your financial plan without compromising on essential features.
- Size and Space: Assess the available space in your home or office. Home printers are usually compact and designed to fit in smaller spaces, whereas office printers are generally larger and require more room for installation and maintenance. Measure your space to find a suitable model that meets your needs without overcrowding your environment.
- Print Quality: Look into the print quality specifications. Home colour scanner printers usually produce satisfactory quality for personal use, but office printers often deliver higher resolution and more vibrant colours, suitable for professional documents and presentations. If print quality is paramount, consider investing in a model that excels in this area.
- Connectivity Options: Consider how you plan to connect the printer to your devices. Home printers typically offer USB and basic Wi-Fi connectivity, while office models may provide more extensive options, including Ethernet and cloud printing capabilities. Choosing a printer with suitable connectivity can enhance ease of use and workflow efficiency.
What Are the Key Price Ranges for Colour Scanner Printers?
The key price ranges for colour scanner printers can vary significantly based on their features and intended use.
- Budget Range ($100 – $300): This range typically includes entry-level models that are suitable for home users or small businesses with basic scanning needs.
- Mid-Range ($300 – $700): Printers in this category usually offer better resolution, faster scanning speeds, and additional features like duplex scanning and Wi-Fi connectivity, appealing to more serious users.
- High-End Range ($700 and above): These are professional-grade devices designed for high-volume scanning, often featuring advanced capabilities such as high DPI, extensive color management, and large-format scanning options.
Budget range colour scanner printers are ideal for individuals or small offices that require basic functionality without breaking the bank. They often come with sufficient quality for standard documents and photos but may lack advanced features like high resolution or fast processing speeds.
Mid-range colour scanner printers offer a balance of quality and functionality, appealing to users who need more than just basic scanning. They typically include features such as automatic document feeders, improved optical resolution, and better software support for photo editing and document management.
High-end range colour scanner printers are suited for professionals and businesses that demand the highest quality and efficiency. These models usually support a variety of media types, provide extensive customization options, and are built to handle large volumes of work with minimal downtime.
What Do Users Say About Their Favourite Colour Scanner Printers?
Users have various opinions and experiences regarding their favorite color scanner printers, often highlighting performance, quality, and features.
- Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw: Users appreciate its high-quality color prints and fast scanning capabilities, making it suitable for both home and office use. The printer’s user-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies navigation, and its wireless connectivity options provide convenience for various devices.
- Epson EcoTank ET-4760: Many users praise the EcoTank system for its cost-effectiveness due to refillable ink tanks, which significantly reduce the cost per page. The scanner’s high-resolution capabilities ensure that documents are scanned with clarity, and its mobile printing features add to its versatility.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Users highlight the printer’s robust security features and fast performance, making it ideal for businesses. The multifunctionality, including scanning, copying, and faxing, along with high-quality color output, makes it a favorite among professionals.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Customers often mention the compact design and reliable performance of this printer, which fits well in smaller office spaces. The ability to handle various paper sizes and types, along with automatic duplex printing and scanning, enhances its functionality for diverse tasks.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: Users value this printer for its solid build quality and efficient performance, especially in monochrome printing, while still providing decent color scanning options. Its wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities make it a convenient choice for users who need flexibility in their printing needs.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Colour Scanner Printer Over a Standard Printer?
The advantages of using a colour scanner printer over a standard printer include multifunctionality, enhanced image quality, and convenience in handling documents.
- Multifunctionality: A colour scanner printer combines the capabilities of printing, scanning, and often copying, which can significantly save space and reduce the need for multiple devices. This all-in-one functionality caters to both home and office environments, streamlining tasks like digitizing documents or producing high-quality prints from scanned images.
- Enhanced Image Quality: Colour scanner printers typically provide superior image quality compared to standard printers, especially for photographs and graphic designs. They utilize advanced scanning technology that captures vibrant colours and fine details, ensuring that printed outputs reflect the true essence of the original documents or images.
- Convenience in Document Handling: With a colour scanner printer, users can easily convert physical documents into digital formats, making it simple to store, share, and edit files. This capability is particularly useful for archiving important materials or sending documents via email without the hassle of retyping or photocopying.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial investment may be higher, a colour scanner printer can be more economical in the long run due to the reduced number of devices needed. This can lower maintenance costs and save on supplies, as users can purchase fewer consumables like ink and paper across multiple devices.
- Versatility in Usage: These printers can handle a variety of media types, including photo paper, cardstock, and labels, providing users with flexibility in their printing projects. This versatility makes them suitable for a range of applications, from professional presentations to craft projects.
How Do the Best Colour Scanner Printers Compare to Each Other?
| Brand | Resolution | Speed | Price | Connectivity | Scanner Type | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 1200 x 2400 dpi – High-quality scans for photos and documents | 20 pages per minute – Efficient for high-volume tasks | $150 – Mid-range pricing for quality performance | Wi-Fi, USB | Flatbed | Duplex scanning |
| Brand B | 600 x 600 dpi – Suitable for basic document scanning | 15 pages per minute – Good for personal use | $80 – Budget-friendly option | USB | Sheet-fed | No duplex scanning |
| Brand C | 2400 x 4800 dpi – Excellent detail for professional use | 30 pages per minute – Fast performance for office environments | $300 – Higher-end model for serious users | Wi-Fi, USB | Flatbed | Duplex scanning |