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10 Best Small Printer Scanners 2025 in the United States
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Buying Guide for the Best Small Printer Scanners
When choosing a small printer-scanner, it's important to consider your specific needs and how the device will be used. Whether you need it for home, office, or on-the-go use, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.Print ResolutionPrint resolution is measured in dots per inch (DPI) and indicates the quality of the printed output. Higher DPI means more detailed and sharper prints. For general home use, a resolution of 600 DPI is usually sufficient. If you need high-quality photo prints or professional documents, look for a printer with at least 1200 DPI. Consider your primary use: for text documents, lower DPI is fine, but for images and graphics, higher DPI is better.
Scan ResolutionScan resolution, also measured in DPI, determines the clarity and detail of scanned images. A higher scan resolution is important if you need to digitize photos or detailed documents. For basic document scanning, 300 DPI is adequate. For high-quality image scanning, aim for 600 DPI or higher. Think about what you will be scanning most often to decide the appropriate resolution.
Print SpeedPrint speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM) and indicates how quickly the printer can produce documents. If you print large volumes of documents, a higher PPM is beneficial. For occasional home use, a speed of 10-20 PPM is usually sufficient. For office use where time efficiency is crucial, look for speeds of 20 PPM or more. Consider how often and how much you print to determine the necessary speed.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options include USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and sometimes Ethernet. USB is standard for direct connection to a computer. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for wireless printing from multiple devices, which is convenient for home or office use. Some models also support mobile printing via apps. Choose based on your setup: if you need flexibility and convenience, opt for wireless options.
Size and PortabilityThe physical size and weight of the printer-scanner are important if you have limited space or need to move the device frequently. Compact models are ideal for small desks or home offices. Portable models are lightweight and can be easily transported, making them suitable for on-the-go use. Assess your space and mobility needs to select the right size.
Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the types and sizes of paper the printer can accommodate, as well as the capacity of the paper tray. For general use, a standard tray that holds 100-150 sheets is sufficient. If you print on different media types (e.g., envelopes, labels), ensure the printer supports them. Consider your typical print jobs to determine the necessary paper handling capabilities.
Duplex Printing and ScanningDuplex printing and scanning allow for automatic double-sided printing and scanning. This feature saves time and paper, making it ideal for office environments or anyone who prints and scans frequently. If you often handle double-sided documents, look for a model with automatic duplex capabilities. For occasional use, manual duplexing may be sufficient.
Ink or Toner TypePrinters use either inkjet cartridges or laser toner. Inkjet printers are generally better for high-quality color prints and photos, while laser printers are more efficient for high-volume text documents. Consider what you print most often: for photos and color graphics, choose inkjet; for text-heavy documents, laser is more cost-effective and faster.
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