Compact Printers That Fit Any Desk and Budget
The HP OfficeJet 250 is our top pick for most people because it packs full wireless printing, scanning, and copying into a 5.8 pound frame. Its main limitation is the cost per page, which runs higher than some rivals. For budget buyers, the Canon PIXMA TR150 offers excellent photo quality at a lower price, but it lacks a scanner, so you would need a separate device for that.
Compact printers have come a long way. They now offer wireless printing, auto duplexing, and even scanning in packages that fit on a shelf or in a backpack. But with so many models, choosing the right one can be tricky.
This guide breaks down the best compact printers for home, office, and travel. We focus on models that are currently available on Amazon, with real user ratings and honest assessments. Whether you need a tiny photo printer or a full-featured all-in-one, we have you covered.
The top picks, ranked
HP OfficeJet 250 All-in-One Portable Printer
The HP OfficeJet 250 is a battery-powered all-in-one that prints, scans, and copies. It is designed for people on the go, with a rechargeable battery that delivers up to 500 pages per charge. Owners praise its solid build and reliable wireless connection. It produces sharp text and decent graphics. The main drawback is the cost of ink, which is higher than some competitors.
Pros
- Battery powered for true portability
- Scan and copy functions included
- Reliable wireless printing from mobile devices
Cons
- Ink costs are high over time
- Slow print speeds
Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer
The Canon PIXMA TR150 is a lightweight portable printer that excels at photos. It uses five individual ink tanks to produce vivid colors and crisp details. It connects via Wi-Fi or USB, and an optional battery is available. Users love its compact size and excellent photo output. However, it is a single-function printer, so scanning is not possible.
Pros
- Outstanding photo quality
- Very compact and lightweight
- Quiet operation
Cons
- No scanner or copier
- Battery is sold separately
Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-2850 uses refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges, drastically lowering cost per page. It prints, scans, and copies, and it supports automatic duplex printing. Owners report that the initial setup is slightly involved but the savings are worth it. The printer is a bit larger than others, but still compact enough for a small desk.
Pros
- Extremely low cost per page
- Built-in scanner and copier
- Auto duplex printing
Cons
- Initial setup can be tricky
- Slightly bulky footprint
HP Tango X Smart Wireless Printer
The HP Tango X is a stylish printer that blends into home decor. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can print by voice. It offers 2-sided printing and produces high-quality documents. It does not have a scanner or copier, and it relies heavily on the HP Smart app, which some users find limiting.
Pros
- Voice-activated printing
- Sleek, compact design
- Great for mobile printing
Cons
- No scanner or copier
- Requires app for many functions
Brother PocketJet PJ-773 Mobile Printer
The Brother PocketJet PJ-773 is a thermal printer that produces crisp, professional documents anywhere. It is extremely thin and light, and it can print on plain paper. It connects via USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. It is designed for mobile professionals like contractors and sales reps. The downside is the high upfront cost and the need for special thermal paper for best results.
Pros
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Prints sharp text on plain paper
- Long battery life
Cons
- Expensive initial investment
- Monochrome only
Canon PIXMA TS6420 Wireless All-in-One Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS6420 offers printing, scanning, and copying in a compact, low-cost package. It has a 2.7 inch display and supports borderless photo printing. Users appreciate the easy setup and good print quality for documents and photos. It lacks auto duplexing and uses standard cartridges, so running costs are moderate.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Prints, scans, and copies
- Good photo quality
Cons
- No automatic duplex printing
- Cartridge replacement can be costly
SELPHY CP1500 Wireless Compact Photo Printer
The Canon SELPHY CP1500 is a dedicated photo printer that delivers lab-quality prints in seconds. It uses dye-sublimation technology for smudge-proof, water-resistant photos. It is compact and easy to carry, making it ideal for events and travel. It connects via Wi-Fi or USB and works with the Canon PRINT app. The main limitation is its size: it prints only 4×6 inch photos, not documents.
Pros
- High-quality glossy prints
- Fast printing for photos
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Cannot print documents
- Requires proprietary paper and ink
How to choose
How they stack up
| # | Model | Print Speed | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP OfficeJet 250 All-in-One Portable Printer | 10 ppm black, 7 ppm color | Best Overall for Travel and Small Offices | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer | 9 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color | Best for Photo Printing on the Go | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer | 10.5 ppm black, 5 ppm color | Best for Low Running Costs | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | HP Tango X Smart Wireless Printer | 11 ppm black, 8 ppm color | Best for Smart Home and Alexa Users | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Brother PocketJet PJ-773 Mobile Printer | 8 ppm | Best for Business Documents on the Road | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Canon PIXMA TS6420 Wireless All-in-One Printer | 13 ppm black, 6.8 ppm color | Best Budget All-in-One for Home Use | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | SELPHY CP1500 Wireless Compact Photo Printer | 4 x 6 inches | Best for Instant Photo Printing | 8.3 | Check price |
Common questions
What is the smallest compact printer available?
The smallest are often thermal printers like the Brother PocketJet, which is about the size of a small laptop. However, inkjet printers like the HP Tango X and Canon PIXMA TR150 are also quite small, measuring around 12 inches wide and weighing under 5 pounds.
Can compact printers print high-quality photos?
Yes, many compact inkjet printers can produce excellent photo prints. Models like the Canon PIXMA TR150 and the Canon SELPHY CP1500 are known for their photo quality. However, dedicated photo printers use dye-sublimation for smudge-proof, water-resistant prints, which are often superior to inkjet outputs.
Do compact printers have scanners?
Some do. All-in-one models like the HP OfficeJet 250 and Epson EcoTank ET-2850 include a scanner. But many ultra-portable printers, like the Canon PIXMA TR150 and HP Tango X, are print-only. If you need scanning, look for a model with that feature.
How do I connect my smartphone to a compact printer?
Most modern printers support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and many work with AirPrint for iPhones and iPads. For Android devices, you can use the printer manufacturer’s app, such as HP Smart, Canon PRINT, or Epson iPrint. Some printers also support Google Cloud Print, though that service has been discontinued.
Are compact printers more expensive to run?
Not necessarily. Some compact printers, especially those using standard cartridges, have high running costs. But models with refillable ink tanks, like the Epson EcoTank, have very low cost per page. For occasional printing, cartridge-based printers may be fine, but for regular use, consider a tank system.
Can I print borderless photos on a compact printer?
Many compact inkjet printers support borderless printing, especially on 4×6 inch photo paper. Check the specifications for ‘borderless’ support. The Canon PIXMA TS6420, for example, prints borderless photos. The SELPHY CP1500 prints edge-to-edge automatically.
What is the best compact printer for a home office?
For a home office, an all-in-one with scanning and copying is useful. The HP OfficeJet 250 offers portability and battery power, while the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 provides lower running costs. If you have limited space, the HP Tango X is compact and smart, but it lacks a scanner.
How long do compact printer batteries last?
Battery life varies. The HP OfficeJet 250 can print up to 500 pages per charge, while the Brother PocketJet offers around 1,000 pages. The Canon PIXMA TR150 has an optional battery that lasts about 300 pages. Consider your typical print volume to choose a model with sufficient battery life.
Do compact printers work with Windows and Mac?
Yes, most printers support both Windows and macOS. They also work with iOS and Android through AirPrint or proprietary apps. Always check the system requirements to ensure compatibility with your devices.
Are compact printers noisy?
Inkjet printers are generally quiet, especially portable models. Thermal printers are nearly silent. Laser printers are louder but still acceptable. Check user reviews for noise levels if you plan to use the printer in a shared space.
The verdict
For most people, the HP OfficeJet 250 is the best compact printer because it balances portability, functionality, and reliability. It is ideal for professionals who need to print, scan, and copy while traveling. If you print frequently and want to save money on ink, the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 is a wise investment despite its larger size. For those who prioritize photo quality over document printing, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 is the clear winner. Choose the printer that best aligns with your primary use case, and you will not be disappointed.
