Compact All-in-One Printer | Best Picks for 2026

The right compact all-in-one printer saves desk space without sacrificing the features you actually use. Whether you need automatic double-sided printing, a refillable ink system to cut long-term costs, or a reliable monochrome laser for sharp text, the 2026 lineup offers clear winners for different priorities. Here are the top models, what they do best, and the one trap that eats budgets faster than the purchase price.

Top Compact All-in-One Printers Compared (2026)

PCMag’s 2026 testing identifies four standout models covering inkjet versatility, low-cost high-volume printing, balanced features, and laser speed. The table below compresses the essential specs and typical US pricing.

Prices vary by retailer and promotions; figures reflect typical 2026 US retail ranges.

If you’re comparing the best options side-by-side before buying, our tested roundup of the best compact office printers covers real-world performance and value across these models.

Which Model Fits Your Workflow?

The right choice depends on your print volume, whether you need color, and how much you want to spend on ink over time.

For mixed document and photo printing with solid speed, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e is a versatile mid-range pick. Its automatic double-sided printing and intuitive app make it easy to set up and use. The HP+ plan is optional but does lock you into an internet connection and HP account for cloud features — read the terms before activating.

For high-volume users who want to slash ink costs, the Epson EcoTank ET-4850 uses refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges. The upfront cost is higher (around $450–$500), but the per-page cost drops dramatically. No mandatory subscription is required, though Epson Connect is available for cloud printing. This is the model that pays for itself if you print regularly.

For a balanced all-rounder with fax, the Canon PIXMA TR8620a keeps the price lower (~$250–$300) while still including fax and a five-color ink system. Mobile printing works through the free Canon PRINT app — just connect the printer to Wi-Fi and tap “Print.”

For fast, clean black-and-white text and security, the Brother MFC-L2900DW is the top monochrome laser option. It prints via cloud apps directly from its 3.5-inch touchscreen and includes advanced security features for safeguarding data. Laser printers are also more resistant to temperature and humidity than inkjets, making them a sturdy choice for varied environments.

Common Mistakes That Cost You

The biggest hidden expense in any inkjet is the ink itself. Models with standard cartridges can cost more per page than the printer did. The Epson ET-4850’s refillable system solves this; the others require shopping for high-yield cartridges or subscription plans.

Fax is still included in the HP 9125e, Canon TR8620a, and Brother MFC-L2900DW — but many compact models drop it. If fax is essential, verify the spec before buying.

Paper tray capacity is limited on compact models. If you regularly print over 50 pages at once, check the tray size against your daily volume.

Quick Setup Tips

Setting up any of these printers follows the same basic path: download the manufacturer’s app (HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Brother iPrint&Scan, or Epson Connect), follow the on-screen prompts to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi, load paper, and install the ink or toner. The app handles registration and cloud feature setup.

For cloud printing directly from the Brother MFC-L2900DW, press the touchscreen, navigate to “Cloud Services,” select a file from Google Drive or Dropbox, and choose “Print.”