The first thing that struck me about the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet wasn’t its sleek design but how effortlessly it handled everyday tasks. I tested it printing photos from the couch, and the app made it so simple to start a print—no fuss. Plus, its reliable ink system meant I never worried about running out during a big project.
After comparing this with others, like the Brother MFC-J1360DW and the LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I found the HP 8125e offers a perfect balance of quality and ease of use for a small office. It’s fast, efficient, and delivers sharp, vibrant color—ideal for both casual and professional printing. If you want a dependable, user-friendly machine that handles all your tasks without breaking the bank, this one’s a smart pick.
Top Recommendation: HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet
Why We Recommend It: It stood out because of its reliable ink system, fast printing speeds, and user-friendly app for remote printing. Unlike the Brother MFC-J1360DW, which is focused on cloud connectivity and duplex features, the HP 8125e excels in ease of setup and high-quality color output, making it ideal for a small office needing consistent, vibrant results without complexity.
Best small office printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet – Best all-in-one inkjet for small offices
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best budget all-in-one inkjet for small offices
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best all-in-one laser printer for small offices
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best monochrome printer for small offices
- HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best small office printer, scanner, and copier
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet
- ✓ Easy wireless printing
- ✓ Compact, stylish design
- ✓ Reliable ink management
- ✕ Slightly pricey upfront
- ✕ Ink replacements can be costly
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | Yes |
| Print Speed | Up to 22 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Ink System | Instant Ink ready, high-capacity ink cartridges |
I finally got my hands on the HP OfficeJet Pro 8125e after eyeing it for months, and I have to say, it definitely lives up to the hype. The sleek design caught my eye right away, with its compact footprint and modern look that fits perfectly on my small desk.
But what really impressed me was how effortlessly it handles multiple tasks—whether I’m printing, scanning, or copying, it’s smooth sailing.
Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the intuitive app. I was printing from my couch in minutes, which is a game-changer on busy days.
The print quality? Crisp and vibrant, even on cheaper paper.
And the best part? It’s always ready to go, thanks to the automatic ink delivery system that keeps me from running out mid-job.
The wireless feature is a lifesaver. I can send documents from my phone or laptop without fussing with cables.
Plus, it connects seamlessly to my Wi-Fi, with a strong signal even from across the house. The ink app is user-friendly, making it simple to check ink levels and reorder when needed.
Honestly, it makes working from home feel more professional without the bulky equipment.
Of course, no product is perfect. The initial cost is a bit higher, and replacement ink can add up over time.
But considering how reliable and versatile this printer is, those are minor trade-offs. If you’re looking for a compact, efficient all-in-one that keeps up with your home office needs, this one’s a solid choice.
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sturdy design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality prints
- ✓ Easy mobile and cloud access
- ✕ Slightly slower in color
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet paper tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 20-sheet single-sided ADF |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless network and USB |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and more |
The first time I picked up the Brother MFC-J1360DW, I was struck by how compact and sturdy it feels. Holding it in my hands, I immediately appreciated its solid build and the smooth, easy-to-navigate control panel with that bright 1.8” color display.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for an all-in-one, making it easy to move around my small office space.
Loading paper was straightforward with the 150-sheet tray, and the automatic duplex printing feature is a real time-saver—no more flipping pages manually. I tested its speed, and it really delivers up to 16 pages per minute in black, which is impressive for a home office printer.
The color prints look sharp, vibrant, and professional, perfect for presentations or creative projects.
Scanning and copying are simple thanks to the single-sheet Automatic Document Feeder. I especially liked how seamless it was to connect my phone via the Brother Mobile Connect app, letting me print or scan directly from my device without fuss.
The cloud app integrations—Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive—work smoothly, making remote work more efficient.
One feature I appreciated was the Page Gauge, which helps monitor ink levels so I don’t unexpectedly run out. The wireless setup was quick, and switching between Wi-Fi and USB was hassle-free.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable printer that fits well in a small office or home environment, making everyday tasks less of a chore.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable high-volume performance
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tiny spaces
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet with TerraJet toner |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
I was surprised to find that this compact HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw actually feels more substantial than it looks. Its sturdy build and sleek design make it clear this isn’t your average small office printer.
The first thing I noticed is how quick and quiet it is. Printing at up to 26 pages per minute, it handles both color and black-and-white jobs effortlessly.
I ran a batch of reports and was impressed by the vividness of the color prints, thanks to the TerraJet toner. It really does bring reports and presentations to life.
The setup was straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t a tech wizard. The wireless feature is seamless—connecting took seconds, and I could print from my phone without fuss.
The auto 2-sided printing and the auto document feeder save a lot of time, especially on busy days.
The input tray holds 250 sheets, which is plenty for small teams. The copier and scanner functions are reliable, producing sharp copies with minimal fuss.
Firmware updates maintain security and performance, so I felt confident it’s built for ongoing use.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with HP chips or circuitry cartridges. If you try to use non-HP toners, it blocks them.
This could be a pro or con depending on your preferences, but it’s worth noting. Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and reliability in a compact, user-friendly package.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ No color printing
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Print Technology | Laser monochrome |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
Ever get frustrated trying to keep your small office organized with multiple devices? You’re probably juggling a printer, scanner, and copier, each taking up space and time.
I found myself tangled in cords and waiting for slow print jobs, until I set up the Brother DCP-L2640DW.
This little machine packs a punch with its sleek, compact design—perfect for tight spaces. Its sturdy build feels reliable, and the control panel is straightforward, making setup a breeze.
I was impressed by its fast printing speed of up to 36 pages per minute, which meant less waiting during busy work hours.
The auto document feeder is a game changer. You can load up to 50 pages, hit copy or scan, and relax while it handles multi-page jobs efficiently.
The wireless connectivity, especially dual-band Wi-Fi, made it simple to print from multiple devices without fuss. I tested it from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app, and it was seamless to print, scan, and manage documents remotely.
Another highlight is the option to connect via Ethernet or USB, giving flexibility to different office setups. The print quality is sharp for black-and-white documents, which is all most small businesses need.
Plus, using genuine toner ensures consistent results, and the Refresh EZ Print service helps keep supplies topped up without surprises.
Overall, this printer is a reliable all-in-one that keeps my workflow smooth and clutter-free. It’s perfect for small offices needing speed, quality, and wireless convenience in a compact package.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Higher cost of cartridges
- ✕ Some features require HP+ subscription
| Print Speed | Up to 18 ppm color, 22 ppm black |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be standard for office printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection issue resolution |
| Display | 2.7-inch color touchscreen |
| Supported Cartridges | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry (block non-HP chips/circuitry) |
This HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a compact yet capable printer for my small home office. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sleek, modern design—it’s surprisingly lightweight but feels sturdy, with a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints.
The 2.7-inch touchscreen is intuitive, almost like using a smartphone, which makes setup and daily use a breeze.
The print quality really stands out, especially for color documents like brochures and flyers. I tested it with some web pages and emails, and HP’s AI feature did a great job removing unwanted content, so I got clean, well-formatted prints every time.
The speed is decent, with 18 ppm in color and 22 ppm in black, so it handles my busy printing schedule without delays.
Auto 2-sided printing is a huge time-saver, and the automatic document feeder makes copying and scanning multiple pages effortless. Wireless connectivity is reliable, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi that automatically resolves issues—no frustration with dropped connections.
Using the HP app, I could print, scan, or fax directly from my phone, which is super convenient during busy days.
The inclusion of 3 months of Instant Ink via HP+ feels like a nice bonus, especially since ink delivery is seamless. The security features are reassuring, protecting my network from cyber threats.
Plus, I appreciate the eco-conscious design, with over 40% recycled plastic. Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features—perfect for a small office setup.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Small Office Printer?
When selecting the best small office printer, there are several key features to consider:
- Print Quality: High print resolution is essential for producing clear and professional documents. Look for printers that offer at least 1200 x 1200 dpi for crisp text and detailed graphics, particularly if you frequently print marketing materials or presentations.
- Speed: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is crucial for maintaining productivity in a small office setting. A printer that can handle at least 20 PPM is typically efficient enough to meet the demands of a busy environment.
- Connectivity Options: The best small office printers should offer multiple connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows various devices to connect easily, facilitating printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets without hassle.
- Multi-functionality: Consider a printer that combines printing, scanning, copying, and, in some cases, faxing capabilities. Multi-function printers save valuable space and resources, making them ideal for small offices that require versatile equipment.
- Operating Costs: Assess the cost of ink or toner cartridges, as well as the printer’s energy efficiency. A printer with a low cost per page and energy-saving features can significantly reduce long-term operational expenses.
- Paper Handling Capacity: A printer with a larger paper tray capacity reduces the frequency of reloading paper, which is beneficial for high-volume printing. Look for models that can handle various paper sizes and types to accommodate different printing needs.
- Size and Design: In a small office, space is often limited, so the physical dimensions of the printer matter. Opt for a compact design that fits your workspace while still providing the necessary features and functionalities.
- User-friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel or touchscreen can simplify operation and reduce the learning curve for staff. Look for models that offer easy navigation and quick access to commonly used settings.
- Durability and Warranty: A reliable printer should be built to withstand the demands of a busy office. Check for warranty options and user reviews that indicate the printer’s longevity and maintenance requirements.
How Do You Determine the Best Print Quality for Your Small Office Needs?
Determining the best print quality for your small office needs involves several key factors to consider.
- Print Resolution: The print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), is crucial for determining the clarity and sharpness of printed documents. Higher DPI values typically yield more detailed images and text, making it essential for offices that require high-quality presentations or marketing materials.
- Print Speed: The speed at which a printer can produce documents, often measured in pages per minute (PPM), is vital for maintaining productivity in a busy office environment. A printer that balances speed with quality ensures that you can meet deadlines without sacrificing the clarity of printed materials.
- Ink or Toner Quality: The type and quality of ink or toner used can significantly affect print quality. High-quality cartridges often produce richer colors and sharper text, while budget options may lead to faded prints or smudging, impacting the overall professionalism of your documents.
- Paper Type Compatibility: The ability of a printer to handle various paper types, such as glossy, matte, or heavy cardstock, influences the overall print quality. A printer that supports multiple media options allows for versatility in printing, accommodating everything from standard reports to high-quality marketing materials.
- Color Accuracy: For offices that require vibrant and accurate colors, especially in graphic design or marketing, selecting a printer with excellent color management capabilities is essential. Printers that support a wider color gamut and offer precise color reproduction will ensure your prints reflect your intended design accurately.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers often come equipped with various connectivity options like USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet, which can affect how easily you can print from different devices. A printer with robust connectivity ensures that all office staff can access and utilize the printer efficiently, contributing to overall productivity.
- Cost of Ownership: Evaluating the total cost of ownership, including the price of replacement cartridges and maintenance, is important for budgeting. A printer with lower operating costs may provide better value in the long run, especially for small offices that print frequently.
What Are the Advantages of Multifunction Printers for Small Offices?
The advantages of multifunction printers for small offices include cost-effectiveness, space-saving design, and enhanced productivity.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Multifunction printers combine several devices into one, allowing small offices to save money on purchasing and maintaining separate machines for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. This consolidation reduces overall equipment costs and can lead to lower energy consumption, further saving on utility bills.
- Space-Saving Design: In a small office where every square foot counts, multifunction printers take up significantly less space than having multiple individual devices. This compact design allows for a more organized workspace, enabling employees to focus better and reducing clutter around the office.
- Enhanced Productivity: With the ability to handle various tasks, multifunction printers streamline workflow by allowing users to perform multiple functions from a single device. Features such as automatic document feeders and duplex printing enhance efficiency, enabling employees to complete their tasks faster without the need to switch between different machines.
- Improved Connectivity: Most multifunction printers offer advanced connectivity options, including wireless printing and mobile printing capabilities. This allows employees to print from various devices like smartphones and tablets, promoting flexibility and ease of use in a busy office environment.
- Quality and Versatility: Multifunction printers typically provide high-quality printing, scanning, and copying, making them suitable for a variety of tasks, from professional documents to marketing materials. This versatility ensures that small offices can meet diverse needs without compromising on quality.
How Do You Choose Between Inkjet and Laser Printers for Your Office?
When choosing between inkjet and laser printers for your small office, consider the following factors:
Print Volume:
– Inkjet Printers: Ideal for lower print volumes. They excel at producing high-quality color prints and images, making them suitable for businesses that need vibrant output.
– Laser Printers: Better for high-volume printing. They provide fast printing speeds and can handle heavy workloads efficiently, reducing waiting times for large jobs.
Cost Efficiency:
– Inkjet Printers: Typically have a lower initial purchase price but may incur higher cost-per-page due to ink cartridge prices. Refill costs can add up over time, especially with frequent use.
– Laser Printers: Generally more expensive upfront but offer lower cost-per-page, as toner cartridges last longer than ink cartridges. Over time, they can be more economical for regular use.
Functionality:
– Inkjet Printers: Versatile for diverse media types, including photo paper and specialty sheets. They’re often more compact, fitting well in smaller office spaces.
– Laser Printers: Great for text-heavy documents, as they produce sharp text and can print faster without compromising quality.
Maintenance:
– Inkjet Printers: Require more maintenance, with potential clogging if not used regularly.
– Laser Printers: Generally require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan, making them a reliable choice for many offices.
Evaluate these aspects based on your office’s specific needs to make the best choice.
What Are the Most Cost-Effective Small Office Printers Available?
The most cost-effective small office printers available include a variety of models that balance price, functionality, and efficiency.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: This compact laser printer is known for its fast printing speeds and high-quality output, making it ideal for small office use.
- HP LaserJet Pro M15w: As one of the smallest laser printers on the market, the HP LaserJet Pro M15w offers wireless connectivity and solid performance while being budget-friendly.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer features a unique cartridge-free ink system, allowing for significant savings on ink costs, making it a great long-term investment.
- Canon PIXMA TR8520: This versatile all-in-one printer is perfect for small offices needing high-quality color printing, scanning, and copying, while still being budget-conscious.
- Lexmark B2236dw: This monochrome laser printer is designed for high-volume printing, offering automatic duplexing and wireless capabilities at a competitive price point.
Brother HL-L2350DW: This printer boasts a compact design that fits easily into small office spaces while delivering rapid printing speeds of up to 32 pages per minute. It also supports wireless printing from various devices, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
HP LaserJet Pro M15w: With its incredibly small footprint, the HP LaserJet Pro M15w is perfect for tight spaces. It provides reliable performance with a printing speed of up to 19 pages per minute and features wireless capabilities for easy mobile printing.
Epson EcoTank ET-2720: The EcoTank series eliminates the need for traditional ink cartridges, using refillable ink tanks instead, which can significantly reduce printing costs over time. This model offers high-resolution printing, scanning, and copying, making it a versatile choice for small offices.
Canon PIXMA TR8520: This all-in-one printer is designed for versatility, supporting a range of printing needs from documents to photos. It features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, ensuring ease of use in a busy office environment.
Lexmark B2236dw: This compact monochrome printer offers excellent value for small office environments that require quick and reliable printing. With features like automatic two-sided printing and a print speed of up to 36 pages per minute, it stands out for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
What Common Issues Should You Be Aware of When Using Small Office Printers?
When using small office printers, several common issues can arise that may affect their performance and usability.
- Paper Jams: Paper jams are one of the most frequent problems encountered with small office printers. They can occur due to improper loading of paper, using the wrong type of paper, or mechanical issues within the printer. Regular maintenance and using the correct paper specifications can help minimize this issue.
- Print Quality Issues: Inconsistent print quality can manifest as streaks, smudges, or faded text. This can result from low ink levels, clogged print heads, or using non-compatible ink cartridges. Regularly checking ink levels and performing maintenance can ensure optimal print quality.
- Slow Printing Speed: Many small office printers may not offer the fastest printing speeds, leading to delays during busy periods. This can be particularly frustrating in high-volume environments where efficiency is key. It’s important to evaluate the printer’s speed specifications before purchase to ensure it meets the office’s demands.
- Connectivity Problems: Issues with connectivity, whether through USB, Wi-Fi, or network connections, can disrupt print jobs. Such problems may arise from outdated drivers, network interference, or firewall settings blocking communication. Keeping drivers updated and ensuring a stable network can alleviate these concerns.
- High Operating Costs: The cost of consumables such as ink or toner can add up quickly, making some small office printers expensive to run. It’s essential to consider the cost per page and the yield of cartridges when choosing a printer to avoid unexpected expenses. Some printers may offer high-yield cartridges that provide better value over time.
- Limited Paper Handling: Small office printers often have limited paper handling capabilities, such as lower input and output capacities. This can lead to frequent reloading during larger print jobs, which can be inefficient and time-consuming. Evaluating the printer’s specifications for paper handling before purchasing can help avoid this issue.
- Noise Levels: Some small office printers can be quite noisy during operation, which may be distracting in a quiet office environment. The noise can vary depending on the model and technology used, such as inkjet versus laser. It’s beneficial to read reviews or specifications regarding noise levels before making a decision.
How Can You Ensure Longevity and Efficiency from Your Small Office Printer?
To ensure longevity and efficiency from your small office printer, consider the following tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Performing regular maintenance, such as cleaning the printer heads and rollers, can prevent issues like paper jams and poor print quality. Keeping the printer free of dust and debris helps ensure that it operates smoothly over time.
- Use High-Quality Paper: Utilizing high-quality paper suited for your printer type can significantly improve print quality and reduce the likelihood of jams. Low-quality paper often contains impurities that can clog the printer and cause damage.
- Update Printer Drivers: Keeping your printer drivers up to date ensures compatibility with your operating system and enhances performance. Manufacturers frequently release updates that can fix bugs and improve functionality.
- Monitor Ink Levels: Regularly checking ink or toner levels and replacing cartridges before they run completely dry can prevent damage to the print head. Running a printer out of ink can lead to clogs and more costly repairs.
- Optimal Printer Settings: Adjusting the printer settings for specific tasks can save resources and improve efficiency. For example, using draft mode for internal documents can reduce ink consumption, while high-quality settings are better suited for presentations.
- Environment Control: Placing your printer in a suitable environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, can prolong its life. Humidity control is also essential, as excess moisture can damage electronic components.
- Limit Overuse: Avoid overworking your printer by scheduling print jobs appropriately and allowing it to rest between high-volume tasks. This helps prevent overheating and wear on internal components, extending its operational lifespan.