In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, where our homes double as offices, finding the right companions for our workspaces becomes crucial. As we navigate the landscape of home offices, the multifunction printer emerges as a silent ally, breaking free from its traditional mould.
It’s not just a device; it’s a powerhouse that handles printing, scanning, and copying with finesse. Beyond the realm of conventional printing, these modern marvels have evolved into indispensable tools, catering to our diverse needs.
In this era where every document is a canvas and every scan tells a story, the right multifunction printer can be the key to unlocking your home office’s full potential. Let’s discover the top-tier, human-centric multifunction printers that redefine the way we work, bringing a touch of simplicity and sophistication to our daily tasks.
- Ultra-High Capacity Ink Tanks
- Includes up to 3 years’ worth of ink.
- Control your printer from your smart device.
- 100-sheet Rear Paper Tray.
- Reduced energy consumption.
- Large volume printing.
- Automatic document feeder.
- A4 to A3 paper support.
- Up to 3 years’ worth of ink included.
- Use HP Smart App for control.
- Automatic double-sided printing.
- Reduced energy consumption.
- Intuitive LED status bar.
- 5 individual inks.
- 2-way paper feed.
- Auto expandable output tray.
- Wirelessly print, copy, and scan.
- Access the cloud with the Canon Print app.
- Print via AirPrint (iOS) and Mopria (Android).
- Print, Copy, and Scan 3-in-1 machine.
- Print wirelessly from laptops, tablets, or smartphones.
- NFC connectivity ensures quick and secure print release.
- Use the Brother Mobile Connect app (available on Android and iOS).
- 1,200 x 6,000 dpi high-resolution prints.
- Includes 200-page in-box inks.
The Evolution of Multifunction Printers
The journey of multifunction printers is a fascinating tapestry woven through time, transcending their humble origins. Once mere document replicators, these printers have donned the mantle of multitasking maestros, offering a symphony of functions that elevate our home offices.
Did you know that the first-ever multifunction printer, the Xerox 6085, made its debut in the 1980s, introducing the world to the revolutionary concept of combining printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in a single machine? It was a game-changer, setting the stage for the multifunction printers we rely on today.
Fast forward to the present, and multifunction printers have become more than just office peripherals; they’re dynamic collaborators in our daily grind. They’ve evolved beyond the basics of monochrome prints, embracing vibrant colours and high-resolution scanning that turns every document into a visual masterpiece.
As these printers seamlessly transition from one task to another, they whisper tales of innovation, making the once tedious act of printing an exploration of creativity and efficiency. The evolution of multifunction printers is a testament to the relentless pursuit of simplifying our lives, one print, scan, and copy at a time.
Top Picks: The Best Multifunction Printers of the Year
Transforming your home office experience, the Epson EcoTank ET-2810 offers hassle-free printing with its ultra-high-capacity ink tanks. Say goodbye to the cartridge shuffle – this inkjet wonder not only provides mess-free refills but also includes up to 3 years’ worth of ink in the box.
With Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, advanced scanning features, and borderless photo printing, it seamlessly balances efficiency with innovation. The front ink level display ensures you’re never caught off guard, making this printer a savvy choice for eco-conscious and budget-savvy home office enthusiasts.
Key Features:
Printing Technology: Innovative inkjet technology for high-quality prints.
Connectivity: Seamless Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for versatile printing.
Ink Efficiency: Ultra-high capacity ink tanks provide up to 3 years of ink, saving up to 90% on costs.
Scanning Capabilities: Advanced scanning features for digitising documents effortlessly.
Paper Handling: 100-sheet rear paper tray with borderless photo printing up to 10x15cm.
Pros
Mess-free refill with key-lock bottles.
Up to 4,500 pages in black and white.
Epson Smart Panel App for easy control.
Compact design with Wi-Fi connectivity.
Cons
Limited maximum print speed (colour: 5 ppm).
Relatively heavier at 3.9 kilograms.
Step up your professional printing game with the HP Officejet Pro 7720, a versatile all-in-one inkjet printer designed for large volumes and vibrant graphics. Boasting automatic double-sided scanning, borderless photo printing, and a variety of connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, it stands as a reliable workhorse.
The HP Smart App further enhances productivity, allowing you to print and scan directly from your smartphone. Though on the heavier side, this printer is a powerhouse for those seeking affordability, efficiency, and quality in their home office prints.
Key Features:
Printing Technology: Advanced inkjet technology for professional-quality prints.
Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi for versatile connectivity.
Ink Efficiency: Print up to 3x more black and white pages and 2x more colour pages.
Scanning Capabilities: Automatic double-sided scanning with an A3 capacity.
Paper Handling: Borderless printing for stunning photo prints.
Pros
Fast printing speeds (34 ppm).
HP Smart App for enhanced productivity.
Resistant prints against water, stains, and fading.
Wide range of connectivity options.
Cons
Heavier at 15.5 kilograms.
Designed to work only with HP cartridges.
Designed to make life easy, the Canon PIXMA TS6350 is not just a printer – it’s a creative companion for your home office. Featuring an intuitive LED status bar, 5 individual inks, and an auto-expandable output tray, this inkjet marvel provides flexibility and quality. It’s not just about printing; it’s about unleashing your creativity with the easy-photo print Editor and creative park.
With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, this printer seamlessly integrates into your setup, and its 1.44” OLED display ensures a hassle-free experience. It’s a perfect blend of functionality and design, catering to those who crave simplicity without compromising on features.
Key Features:
Printing Technology: High-quality inkjet technology with 5 individual inks.
Connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for flexible wireless printing.
Ink Efficiency: Chromalife100 inks for lasting photos and crisp documents.
Scanning Capabilities: Creative options with an easy-photo print Editor and creative park.
Paper Handling: 2-way paper feed with auto-expandable output tray.
Pros
Intuitive LED status bar for easy monitoring.
Dedicated Pigment Black ink for sharp text.
Creative options with various media.
Fast set-up with a 1.44” OLED display.
Cons
Heavier at 6.3 kilograms.
Limited maximum print speed (colour: 10 ppm).
The Brother DCP-J1050DW is not just a printer; it’s a versatile 3-in-1 solution for your printing, copying, and scanning needs. With wireless and NFC connectivity, this inkjet wonder allows you to print from anywhere using the Brother Mobile Connect app. The in-box pigment inks ensure high-resolution prints, making it ideal for your home photos.
While it may be slightly heavier, its comprehensive features, including easy connectivity, generous in-box inks, and replacement cartridges, make it a valuable asset for those seeking a reliable and efficient multifunction printer for their home office.
Key Features:
Printing Technology: Versatile inkjet technology for printing, copying, and scanning.
Connectivity: Wireless and NFC connectivity for easy printing.
Ink Efficiency: In-box pigment inks for high-resolution prints.
Scanning Capabilities: High-resolution scanning for detailed results.
Paper Handling: Accommodates various document handling requirements.
Pros
Brother Mobile Connect app for convenient printing.
NFC connectivity for quick and secure print release.
High-quality photo prints with in-box pigment inks.
Generous in-box inks and replacement cartridges.
Cons
Limited maximum print speed (colour: 7 ppm).
Relatively heavier at 6.9 kilograms.
Making the Right Choice: Tailoring to Your Home Office Needs
Key Features to Look for in a Multifunction Printer
Finding the perfect multifunction printer for your home office is like finding a trustworthy ally in the world of productivity. As you embark on this quest, consider these features that transform a mere printer into a versatile companion:
Printing Technology
Picture a multifunction laser printer as your artistic accomplice, weaving magic into every print. Feel the crispness, revel in the sharpness – because your documents deserve nothing less than perfection.
Seamless Connectivity
Say goodbye to the cable clutter dance. Seek a printer that not only prints but also understands the language of wireless connectivity. Connecting your laser printer to WiFi becomes a breeze, ushering in an era where your devices seamlessly converse with your printing maestro.
Ink Efficiency
In the realm of ink, longevity meets efficiency. Choose a printer whose inks are not just guardians of longevity but also eco-warriors, sparing your wallet while treading lightly on the planet. It’s a win-win for your pocket and Mother Earth.
Scanning Capabilities
Level up your document game with advanced scanning features. Turn your home office into a digitisation haven. Scanning is not just a task; it’s a passport to a world where your paperwork metamorphoses into digital wonders effortlessly.
Paper Handling
Paper – it comes in all shapes and sizes. Your printer should be the versatile conduit that works gracefully with every paper type. From the petite post-its to the majestic A3s, your printer should handle them all, ensuring a hiccup-free journey through your printing needs.
Summary
In the quest for the ultimate home office companion, the multifunction printers we explored are like a diverse ensemble, each bringing its unique melody to the symphony of productivity.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2810 stands out with its eco-friendly approach, offering mess-free refills and up to 3 years of ink, making it a cost-efficient and environmentally conscious choice. On the other hand, the HP Officejet Pro 7720 impresses with its professional-grade features, including automatic double-sided scanning and vibrant graphics.
Canon’s PIXMA TS6350 adds a touch of creativity to the mix with its intuitive design and versatile connectivity options. Meanwhile, the Brother DCP-J1050DW strikes a balance, offering wireless and NFC connectivity along with high-resolution prints.
As you navigate through the sea of options, consider your unique needs, whether it’s seamless connectivity, eco-conscious printing, or versatile functionality. The perfect multifunction printer awaits, ready to transform your home office into a hub of efficiency and innovation.
You might be interested in our article that reviews budget printers
FAQs
Multifunction printers with advanced scanning capabilities can effectively replace standalone scanners, streamlining your workspace.
Connecting your printer to WiFi is a straightforward process. Most printers, including Canon, HP, and Epson, provide easy-to-follow instructions in their user manuals. Additionally, online tutorials can guide you through the process seamlessly.
Printer offline issues can arise due to connectivity issues or outdated drivers. Troubleshoot by ensuring a stable WiFi connection and updating your printer drivers regularly.
Some advanced multifunction printers offer cellular connectivity options, providing flexibility in printing from various devices.
Print resolution is a crucial factor in determining the quality of your prints. Higher resolution results in sharper and more detailed documents or images. When selecting a multifunction printer, consider your printing needs – whether it’s for professional documents or vibrant photos – and choose a printer with an appropriate print resolution to meet those requirements.
