Here’s an overview of the Best Printer For that we’ll explore today:
Choosing the right printer for a small business hinges on a balance between speed, cost of ownership, and feature set that fits daily workflows. This review compares five widely used models across laser, inkjet, and thermal label categories to help buyers map their needs to the right technology: a fast monochrome laser 3-in-1 for high-volume document work, an affordable color inkjet all-in-one for light-to-moderate color output, a compact Bluetooth thermal label printer for shipping and packaging, a feature-rich color inkjet all-in-one aimed at small offices, and a high-capacity ink tank option designed to minimize running costs. Our methodology combines objective spec analysis with real-world use-case testing, including print speed measurements, scan/copy workflows, connectivity reliability, and total cost of ownership considerations (toner/ink yields, replacement costs, and potential subscription services). We also weigh compatibility with common small-business ecosystems (e-commerce platforms, cloud apps, mobile printing, and multi-device networks). The products covered are representative of KNAON, Brother, HP, and Epson offerings in the price range of $44.99 to $209.98.
1. Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy
- Brand: Brother
- Manufacturer: Brother
Overview: The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact 3-in-1 laser device that combines printing, scanning, and copying with automatic duplexing and duplex scanning. It targets small businesses that prioritize fast black-and-white output, efficient scanning, and reliable networked operation. Key features include print speeds up to 36 ppm, a 50-page ADF for multi-page scanning, and flexible connectivity (Ethernet, USB, and dual-band Wi-Fi). The inclusion of Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription and a trial toner offers a compelling total-cost-of-ownership angle for shops that run high-volume monochrome work. The device also supports mobile printing via the Brother Mobile Connect app and is compatible with Brother TN830/TN830XL cartridges.
Performance-wise, the DCP-L2640DW delivers strong monochrome throughput with solid first-page-out times and dependable duplex printing. Its 50-page ADF supports batch scanning and copying, which is a time saver for invoices or contract packages. However, being a monochrome laser, it lacks color printing capabilities, which limits marketing materials or color proofs. The user experience benefits from straightforward app-based management and reliable network operations, but setup can be more involved for non-technical users due to driver and firmware nuances. For offices requiring robust security and integration in a mixed-device network, this model remains a standout for efficiency and long-term cost control.
Pros
- High print speed up to 36 ppm for monochrome documents
- 50-page auto document feeder enables batch scanning/copying
- Duplex printing and scanning reduce paper usage and costs
- Flexible connectivity: Ethernet, USB, and dual-band Wi-Fi
- Refresh EZ Print Subscription can lower long-term toner costs
Cons
- Monochrome only; no color printing
- Initial setup complexity for some users
- Average multi-function color features compared to color inkjets
2. HP DeskJet 4227e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Brand: HP
- Manufacturer: HP
Overview: The HP DeskJet 4227e is an affordable color all-in-one suitable for light-to-moderate color printing in home-office environments. It includes essential features such as auto document feeder, a 60-sheet input tray, wireless connectivity, and access to HP+ and Instant Ink, which promises convenient replenishment. The AI-driven printing claims aim to optimize pages and layouts, reducing wasted paper and improving output alignment. It’s compact and designed for straightforward day-to-day tasks, making it a practical choice for paperwork, forms, and occasional color marketing materials.
In practice, color print speeds (5.5 ppm color) are modest, and black-and-white prints are quicker (8.5 ppm). The printer’s strength lies in its inexpensive upfront cost and integrated HP+ ecosystem, including the Instant Ink three-month trial. For a small business with sporadic color needs and heavy document workflow, the DeskJet 4227e offers convenient mobile printing via the HP app and reliable wireless connectivity. A potential drawback is ongoing ink costs once the Instant Ink trial ends, as dye-based inks can be relatively expensive per page compared to laser toner for high-volume tasks.
Pros
- Low upfront price and compact footprint
- Wireless printing with reliable HP app experience
- Auto document feeder and 60-sheet input tray
- HP+ and Instant Ink ecosystem simplifies replenishment
- AI-assisted formatting helps reduce wasted pages
Cons
- Color ink costs can be high with heavy use
- Slower color print speeds and moderate laser-like efficiency
- Firmware and HP+ features may require ongoing enrollment
3. Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer
- Brand: KNAON
- Manufacturer: KNAON
Overview: The KNAON Y813BT is a compact Bluetooth-enabled thermal label printer designed for 4×6 shipping labels and 4-inch-wide label stock. It offers wireless printing via Bluetooth with companion apps (FlashLabel Pro) and USB connectivity for broader compatibility. It’s purpose-built for shipping and labeling, with a strong emphasis on quick, label-only output. The device is highly portable, lightweight, and ships with starter label stock and setup resources. Its feature set is simple by design, focusing on speed (up to 60 ppm) and versatile media support in a small footprint.
From a usability standpoint, the Y813BT can be a flexible fit for e-commerce workflows that rely on shipping labels integrated with platforms like eBay, Shopify, and USPS. The reliance on the FlashLabel Pro app for Bluetooth operation means setup and ongoing use require app-based management rather than plug-and-play, which can complicate onboarding for non-technical users. The printer supports up to 4.2-inch labels, but users should confirm their label supplier compatibility and ensure that their workflow can export as a PDF for import into the app when needed.
Pros
- Compact, portable design with 4×6 label support
- Fast thermal printing up to 60 pages per minute
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity for broad compatibility
- Includes starter supplies and setup resources
- Compatible with major e-commerce and shipping platforms
Cons
- Bluetooth operation requires the FlashLabel Pro app
- Setup can be less intuitive for non-technical users
- Limited to label printing (no document printing)
4. HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer
- Brand: HP
- Manufacturer: HP
Overview: The HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e is a full-featured color all-in-one tailored for small-office environments that require versatile document handling, color printing, and secure multi-function workflows. It includes a 2.7-inch touchscreen, auto duplex printing/scanning, a 250-sheet input tray, and HP Wolf Pro Security for enterprise-grade protection. The 3-month Instant Ink trial integrates with the HP+ ecosystem for replenishment, while AI-driven features promise efficient formatting and content optimization. This model targets office tasks like presentations, brochures, and marketing collateral beyond basic documents.
Performance-wise, the 9125e delivers up to 18 ppm color and 22 ppm black with automatic duplex capabilities, a responsive touchscreen experience, and strong network printing with HP+ features. The printer’s security suite and enterprise-oriented design suit small offices with data-protection needs. On the downside, color ink costs can be high with frequent color use, and the relatively larger footprint compared to home-office devices may demand more desk space. Overall, it’s a robust option for color-heavy workflows and security-conscious teams.
Pros
- Solid color and mono print speeds with duplex support
- 2.7-inch touchscreen for easy navigation
- 250-sheet input tray reduces refill interruptions
- HP Wolf Pro Security adds advanced protection
- Instant Ink via HP+ simplifies ink management
Cons
- Higher ongoing ink costs for frequent color printing
- Larger footprint than some rivals
- Firmware updates can be periodic and require attention
5. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan
- Brand: Epson
- Manufacturer: Epson
Overview: The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an all-in-one supertank printer designed for high-volume, low-cost-per-page color printing. Its key differentiator is cartridge-free ink with refill bottles, promising dramatically lower running costs and the equivalent of thousands of cartridges over the printer’s lifetime. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity, color scanning, and copying, with a compact form factor suitable for home offices or small teams. The document speed is modest (up to 5 ppm color, 10 ppm black), but the major value proposition lies in ink efficiency and ease of maintenance.
In practice, the EcoTank platform shines when you have steady color printing needs and want to minimize ink-related maintenance. The ability to print thousands of pages with bottle ink replacements reduces the long-term cost of ownership versus traditional cartridge systems. The unit’s simple setup, modest print speeds, and refillable tanks make it appealing for budgeting-conscious teams. A potential drawback is the initial purchase price and the slightly slower outputs compared with laser devices for high-volume black-and-white work, which should be considered for workload planning.
Pros
- Extremely low running costs with refill ink bottles
- High page yields with EcoTank technology
- Color scanning and copying with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Simple maintenance and fewer cartridge changes
- Relatively compact footprint for an all-in-one
Cons
- Slower print speeds compared to laser printers
- Higher upfront cost than some inkjet models
- Ink bottles require careful handling to avoid spills
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about printer fors to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
.
.
Final thoughts here.