Best Small Office Printer Scanner Fax

So, you're taking the leap and setting up your own small office? Congratulations! Amidst the excitement of choosing furniture and crafting the perfect logo, don't forget a crucial piece of equipment: a reliable all-in-one printer, scanner, and fax machine. This guide is designed specifically for first-time buyers, cutting through the jargon to help you find the perfect device to keep your business running smoothly.

Why does this matter? A good all-in-one printer saves you space, money, and, most importantly, time. You'll be able to handle everything from printing contracts to scanning invoices and sending the occasional fax without running to a print shop or juggling multiple devices.

Top 5 Small Office Printer/Scanner/Fax Machines: A Quick Comparison

Here's a snapshot of some of the top contenders in the small office all-in-one printer market. We've focused on features, price, and warranty to give you a clear overview.

Model	Price (USD)	Print Speed (ppm)	Scanner Resolution (dpi)	Fax Speed (seconds/page)	Warranty
HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e	$229	22 (Black), 18 (Color)	1200 x 1200	4	1 Year
Brother MFC-L2750DW	$199	36	1200 x 1200	2.5	1 Year
Canon MAXIFY GX2020	$279	15 (Black), 10 (Color)	1200 x 1200	3	1 Year
Epson EcoTank ET-4850	$499	15 (Black), 8 (Color)	1200 x 2400	3	2 Years (with registration)
Brother MFC-J4335DW	$179	20 (Black), 19 (Color)	1200 x 2400	7	1 Year

Detailed Reviews

Let’s dive deeper into each model, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is a versatile option for small businesses. It boasts fast printing speeds, excellent print quality, and a user-friendly interface. HP's Instant Ink subscription service can also save you money on ink if you print frequently.

However, the initial price can be a bit higher than some competitors. Some users have also reported occasional connectivity issues. The 1-year warranty is fairly standard.

Brother MFC-L2750DW

The Brother MFC-L2750DW is a monochrome laser printer, ideal for businesses that primarily print text documents. It offers incredibly fast printing speeds and a high monthly duty cycle, making it a workhorse for busy offices. This model also boasts automatic duplex printing, which saves on paper.

It's not the best choice if you need to print in color regularly. The lack of color printing is a significant drawback for some businesses. Like the HP, it comes with a 1 year warranty.

Canon MAXIFY GX2020

The Canon MAXIFY GX2020 stands out with its refillable ink tanks, which significantly reduce ink costs over time. This makes it an economical choice for businesses with moderate printing needs. It delivers good print quality for both documents and photos.

The initial cost is higher than some cartridge-based printers. The print speed is also slower compared to other models on our list. The 1-year warranty can be a concern.

Epson EcoTank ET-4850

Like the Canon MAXIFY GX2020, the Epson EcoTank ET-4850 uses refillable ink tanks to minimize ink costs. It includes a generous amount of ink in the box, enough to last for a long time. It also features a larger touchscreen for easy navigation.

The higher price point might be a barrier for some small businesses. The print speed is slower than some competitors. It is worth noting that it has a 2-year warranty with registration.

Brother MFC-J4335DW

The Brother MFC-J4335DW is a budget-friendly color inkjet all-in-one. It offers decent print quality and a range of connectivity options, including mobile printing. The included ink cartridges also offer a higher page yield than standard cartridges.

Its print speed is not the fastest. The build quality feels less robust compared to higher-end models. The 1 year warranty is fairly standard.

Used vs. New: Which is Right for You?

Considering a used printer to save money? Here's a quick breakdown:

Used Printer Pros: Lower upfront cost, potentially higher-end features at a budget price.

Used Printer Cons: Unknown history, potential for hidden problems, shorter lifespan, limited or no warranty, older technology.

New Printer Pros: Full warranty, latest technology, guaranteed condition, longer lifespan.

New Printer Cons: Higher upfront cost.

For a first-time buyer, especially for business use, a new printer is generally the safer bet. The warranty and peace of mind are worth the extra investment.

Reliability Ratings by Brand

Printer reliability can vary significantly between brands. Here's a general overview based on user reviews and industry reports:

Brother: Generally known for their reliability, especially their laser printers.
HP: A popular brand with a wide range of models; reliability can vary depending on the specific model.
Canon: Known for their excellent print quality, but reliability can be a mixed bag.
Epson: EcoTank models are generally considered reliable due to their simpler ink system.

Important Note: Reliability is subjective and can be influenced by factors like usage patterns and maintenance. Always read reviews specific to the model you're considering.

Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying

Before you click that "buy" button, make sure your chosen printer ticks these boxes:

Printing Needs: Do you primarily print text documents or photos? This will influence whether you need a laser or inkjet printer.
Print Volume: How many pages do you print per month? Choose a printer with a suitable duty cycle.
Connectivity: Do you need Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile printing capabilities?
Scanning and Faxing: Does the scanner resolution meet your needs? Is the fax speed acceptable?
Ink Costs: Research the cost of ink cartridges or bottles for your chosen model.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the best all-in-one printer for your small office is a significant decision. Consider your printing needs, budget, and desired features carefully. Don't underestimate the importance of reliability and long-term ink costs. Whether you prefer a speedy laser printer like the Brother MFC-L2750DW, a cost-effective inkjet with refillable tanks like the Canon MAXIFY GX2020 or Epson EcoTank ET-4850, or a well-rounded option like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e, understanding your specific requirements is key.

Remember to weigh the pros and cons of buying used versus new. A new printer generally provides greater peace of mind due to its warranty and guaranteed condition. Also, always read customer reviews to get a sense of a printer's real-world performance and reliability.

Ready to Make a Decision?

Now that you're armed with this information, it's time to narrow down your choices and select the perfect all-in-one printer for your small office. Click here to compare prices and read more detailed reviews on your top contenders! Don't rush the process; a well-informed decision will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.