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One machine that prints, scans, copies, and often faxes is the quiet workhorse of any home or office. An all-in-one printer saves space and money versus separate devices, and modern models do each job well rather than compromising on all of them. The catch is choosing the right engine: a color laser flies through office documents, while an ink tank model sips ink for pennies per page. Whether you handle paperwork, school projects, or the occasional photo, the right all-in-one does it all without fuss.
To sort the field, we leaned on hands-on testing from outlets like RTINGS, Tom’s Guide, and Consumer Reports, then grouped the standouts by how people actually use a multifunction printer. Some readers want fast office output; others care most about low ink costs or photo quality. Below are five all-in-ones spanning home-office inkjets, a fast color laser, and ultra-low-cost ink tank models, with honest notes on where each shines and what it cannot do. Match one to your workload, your space, and your budget.
Frequently asked questions
What is an all-in-one printer?
An all-in-one (or multifunction) printer combines printing, scanning, and copying, and often faxing, in a single device. It saves desk space and money compared with buying separate machines, and modern models handle each task well.
Should I get an inkjet or laser all-in-one?
Choose a laser all-in-one like the Brother MFC-L8930CDW for fast, sharp, high-volume document printing. Choose an inkjet or ink tank model for lower upfront cost, better photos, and, with tank models, very low running costs.
Are ink tank all-in-ones cheaper to run?
Yes. Ink tank models like the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5850 and Brother INKvestment printers cost more upfront but use refillable ink with very low cost per page, which independent reviews show saves money over time for regular printing.
Do all-in-one printers still include fax?
Many do, especially office-focused models, though some home printers drop it. Every fax-capable pick here also prints, scans, and copies, so check the spec sheet if faxing is essential for you.
