10 Best Compact Printers 2026 in the United States

The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is a versatile and efficient compact printer designed for home and small office use. One of its standout features is the cartridge-free printing system, which uses high-capacity ink tanks. This results in significant cost savings on replacement ink—up to 90% compared to traditional cartridges—and the included ink can last up to two years. Additionally, the printer's eco-friendly design reduces cartridge waste, making it a more sustainable option. The print quality is impressive with a resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, suitable for both sharp text and vibrant color photos.

The built-in scanner and copier add to its functionality, making it a true all-in-one device. Connectivity is modern and flexible, offering Wi-Fi, USB, and hands-free voice-activated printing, as well as compatibility with AirPrint and the Epson Smart Panel app for easy printing from smart devices. However, the print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 ppm for monochrome and 5 ppm for color, which might not be ideal for high-volume printing needs.

The compact size and lightweight design (8.8 pounds) make it easy to fit into small spaces and move around if needed. The lack of dual-sided printing could be a drawback for some users, and the 100-sheet input capacity may be limiting for larger print jobs. Despite these minor shortcomings, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 offers excellent value for those looking for cost-effective, high-quality printing with added scanning and copying capabilities.

The HP OfficeJet 250 All-in-One Portable Printer is a versatile and compact printer ideal for users who need a reliable, portable printing solution. With a maximum print speed of 20 pages per minute (ppm) for black-and-white and 19 ppm for color, it delivers decent performance for its size. The print quality, driven by HP's inkjet technology, ensures crisp and vibrant prints suitable for both documents and photos. Connectivity options are robust, featuring both wired and wireless capabilities, including Bluetooth Smart technology and Wi-Fi Direct, making it easy to print from various devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The inclusion of the HP ePrint app further enhances mobile printing convenience.

One of its standout features is its portability; weighing only 6.51 pounds and with a compact design, it is easy to carry in a car or backpack. The built-in long-lasting battery can be quickly charged within 90 minutes, adding to its convenience for on-the-go use. Additional features like the 2.65-inch color touchscreen, a 10-page automatic document feeder, and support for a range of paper sizes (from envelopes to photo paper) add to its functionality. However, it lacks duplex (double-sided) printing, which could be a drawback for users needing this feature frequently.

Additionally, while it supports a variety of media sizes, the output sheet capacity of 50 sheets may be limiting for high-volume print jobs. The HP OfficeJet 250 uses HP 62 ink cartridges, including high-yield options, but replacing these cartridges can be costly over time. This printer is an excellent choice for professionals or students who need a compact, portable printer with strong mobile connectivity and decent print performance, though it may not be ideal for high-volume or duplex printing needs.

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome multi-function laser printer designed for small businesses. It combines printing, scanning, and copying capabilities within a relatively small footprint, making it an efficient choice for limited office space. One of its standout features is the high print speed of up to 36 pages per minute (ppm), which is excellent for fast-paced environments. The print quality is reliable for standard black and white documents, but as a monochrome printer, it limits users to only black and white printing.

The scanning speed is also commendable, with up to 23.6 images per minute (ipm) for black and white and 7.9 ipm for color, supported by a 50-page auto document feeder that enhances productivity for multi-page scanning and copying tasks. Connectivity is a strong point with options for Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet, allowing for flexible and secure connections. The Brother Mobile Connect app further adds convenience by enabling mobile printing and management.

On the downside, the printer's monochrome limitation may not suit those needing color prints. At 25 pounds, it's relatively heavy for a 'compact' printer, which might be a consideration for users prioritizing portability. Additionally, while the printer supports auto-duplexing (double-sided printing) and is energy-efficient (Energy Star and EPEAT Qualified), the reliance on Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL toner can be a drawback due to potential higher costs, although the Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service could mitigate this with cost savings. This printer is ideal for small businesses needing fast, efficient black and white printing with robust connectivity and additional scanning and copying functionalities.