Finding a printer that handles fax, scan, copy, and print duties without breaking down or bleeding you dry on supplies is the real challenge for any home office or small business. The fax requirement alone narrows the field to machines built for serious document workflows, not the disposable inkjets that clutter desks and frustrate users.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I’ve spent years analyzing market trends, comparing technical specifications, and filtering thousands of aggregated owner experiences to identify which all-in-one printers genuinely deliver on their promises for feature-specific buyers.
This guide breaks down the top contenders to help you invest wisely in a all in one printer with fax that matches your volume, print quality expectations, and long-term operating budget.
How To Choose The Best All In One Printer With Fax
Selecting a fax-enabled all-in-one printer requires weighing printing technology, paper handling, and connectivity against your document volume. This section clarifies the critical specs that separate a smart long-term investment from a costly mistake.
Print Technology: Mono Laser vs. Color Laser vs. Ink Tank
Mono laser printers deliver the lowest cost per page for black-and-white text, making them ideal for small offices that primarily print correspondence and forms. Color laser adds the ability to produce charts and marketing materials, but the upfront cost and toner expense are higher. Ink-tank systems, like those from Epson and Canon, offer extremely low running costs for color printing but require more careful maintenance and are slower than lasers at high volumes.
Duty Cycle and Monthly Print Volume
Every printer has a rated monthly duty cycle, typically expressed in pages per month. For a fax-heavy office workflow, look for a minimum of 2,000 pages per month. Exceeding the duty cycle regularly can cause mechanical failures and degraded print quality. The auto document feeder size also matters: a 35-sheet or 50-sheet ADF saves time when faxing or copying multi-page documents.
Connectivity and Mobile Support
Modern fax-capable printers need dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet for stable network connections, and mobile printing support via Apple AirPrint, Mopria, or manufacturer apps. USB connectivity remains useful for direct computer connection. Some models also offer cloud scanning to services like Google Drive and Dropbox, which streamlines document management.
Supply Costs and Genuine vs. Third-Party Cartridges
The per-page cost of toner or ink determines your total cost of ownership over the first year. Many printers lock out non-genuine cartridges with firmware updates, so factor genuine supply prices into your budget. High-yield cartridges and subscription services can reduce per-page costs but require commitment to the manufacturer’s ecosystem.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L2820DW | Mono Laser | Small Office Text Volume | 36 ppm Print Speed | Amazon |
| Canon imageCLASS MF275dw | Mono Laser | Reliable Home Office Workhorse | 30 ppm / 5.3s First Page | Amazon |
| HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw | Mono Laser (Renewed) | Budget-Conscious B&W Printing | 30 ppm / Auto Duplex | Amazon |
| Epson Workforce WF-2930 | Color Inkjet | Entry-Level Home Color Printing | 10 ppm B&W / 5 ppm Color | Amazon |
| Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX2020 | Color Ink Tank | High-Volume Low-Cost Color | 6000 Page Ink Yield | Amazon |
| HP Color LaserJet MFP 3301cdw | Color Laser (Renewed) | Professional Color Document Output | 26 ppm Color Print Speed | Amazon |
| Xerox C235dni | Color Laser | Small Team Color Laser Access | 24 ppm / 500-page Starter Toner | Amazon |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW | Color Laser | Demanding Color Business Workflow | 19 ppm / 3.5″ Touchscreen | Amazon |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4950 | Color Ink Tank | Ultra-Low Cost Per Page Color | 6600 Page Black Ink Yield | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2820DW delivers an outstanding balance of speed, build quality, and operating economy for small offices that primarily print black-and-white documents. Its 36 ppm print speed leads the mono laser category, and the 50-sheet auto document feeder handles multi-page fax and copy jobs efficiently. The compact footprint fits easily on a corner desk without sacrificing paper capacity.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen provides intuitive navigation through scan-to-cloud functions and printer settings. Brother’s Refresh subscription can cut genuine toner costs significantly, and the dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connections even in congested office environments. Owners consistently praise its quiet operation and low paper jam rates.
Setup instructions are minimal, and some users report needing to configure Wi-Fi manually rather than following the included guide. The 250-sheet paper tray is adequate for moderate volumes but may require frequent refills in a busy office printing over 500 pages daily. Overall, this is the most well-rounded choice for serious fax and document work.
What works
- Exceptional 36 ppm print speed for a compact mono laser
- Intuitive touchscreen with cloud app integration
- Low cost per page with genuine Brother toner
What doesn’t
- Setup instructions are sparse and can be confusing
- 250-sheet tray may feel small for high-volume users
- Color printing not available
2. Canon imageCLASS MF275dw Monochrome Laser All-in-One Printer
Canon’s imageCLASS MF275dw is a steadfast workhorse that combines a fast 30 ppm print speed with a remarkably quick 5.3-second first page out time. The 6-line adjustable touchscreen makes navigation straightforward whether you are sitting or standing, and the 35-sheet auto document feeder accommodates typical office fax jobs. It supports Apple AirPrint and Mopria for effortless mobile printing.
This model uses Canon 071 toner cartridges with a starter yield of 700 pages, and the cost per page with standard-yield cartridges remains competitive. The Energy Star and EPEAT Silver certifications reflect solid environmental design. Owners report trouble-free wireless connectivity and crisp text output that holds up well for professional correspondence.
Some users note that the initial setup process is less intuitive than expected, particularly the network configuration steps. The lack of duplex scanning means you must manually flip multi-page documents for two-sided copying. For a dedicated black-and-white office printer with fax, this Canon delivers reliable performance at a reasonable operating cost.
What works
- Fast 5.3-second first page out speed
- Reliable wireless connectivity with AirPrint support
- Crisp, professional-grade text quality
What doesn’t
- Setup process can be confusing for some users
- No duplex scanning capability
- Color printing not available
3. HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw Wireless Monochrome Laser (Renewed)
The HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw offers a compelling entry point into laser printing for budget-conscious buyers who need fax, scan, and copy. At 30 pages per minute with automatic duplex printing, it handles typical home office volume without complaint. The renewed units from Amazon’s program include a warranty and deliver significant savings over new retail pricing.
Owners highlight the fast print speed and consistent output quality as primary strengths. The HP Smart app enables printing and scanning from a smartphone, and the dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset helps maintain uptime. The Instant Ink subscription option can further reduce running costs for users who print regularly.
Some renewed units arrive with cosmetic wear, and a portion of reviewers report setup software quirks that require troubleshooting. Additionally, HP’s firmware blocks non-genuine cartridges, locking you into HP supplies. For the price, this printer delivers strong mono laser performance with fax, but the renewed condition introduces some uncertainty.
What works
- Excellent value for a fax-capable mono laser printer
- Fast 30 ppm print speed with auto duplex
- HP Smart app enables mobile printing and scanning
What doesn’t
- Renewed condition may include cosmetic blemishes
- Setup software can be finicky during installation
- Locks out third-party toner cartridges
4. Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX2020 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
The Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX2020 redefines color printing economics with its refillable ink tank system that yields up to 6,000 pages per ink set. For a home office that needs color documents, charts, or occasional photos, this printer slashes per-page costs to a fraction of traditional cartridge-based inkjets. The 35-sheet auto document feeder supports multi-page fax and copy workflows.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen provides clear menu navigation, and automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste. Owners report excellent text crispness and vibrant color output for business documents. The ink tank design eliminates cartridge waste and the frustration of running out mid-job, as the ink level is always visible through the transparent tanks.
Printing on cardstock can produce noticeable curl, and the printer is louder than comparable laser models during operation. Some users report initial setup requiring thorough cleaning cycles that consume ink. If your office prioritizes low-cost color printing with fax capability, this MegaTank delivers unmatched value over time.
What works
- Extremely low per-page color printing cost
- Transparent ink tanks show remaining levels at a glance
- Vibrant color output for business documents
What doesn’t
- Cardstock output shows pronounced curling
- Printer is louder than laser alternatives
- Initial setup can waste ink on cleaning cycles
5. Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a top-tier color laser designed for serious business productivity. With 19 ppm print speed in both black and color, it keeps pace with demanding workloads. The large 3.5-inch color touchscreen offers 48 customizable shortcuts, enabling one-touch access to recurring scan or fax tasks. The 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray support extended runs.
Connectivity options include dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB, and Ethernet, making integration into any office network seamless. The companion mobile app allows remote toner monitoring and printing from anywhere. Owners consistently rate the print quality as excellent, with vibrant colors and sharp text that elevate client-facing materials.
The printer’s toner management system may display low-toner warnings well before the cartridge is empty, frustrating some users. Paper feed can occasionally grab two sheets, and the output rollers introduce slight curl due to multiple fuser passes. For a color laser that handles fax, scan, and heavy document production, this Brother delivers professional performance.
What works
- Vibrant color laser output suitable for client materials
- Large touchscreen with customizable workflow shortcuts
- Robust connectivity including dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet
What doesn’t
- Preemptive low-toner warnings can be misleading
- Paper feed occasionally pulls multiple sheets
- Output tends to curl due to multiple fuser rollers
6. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw (Renewed)
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw is a powerhouse for teams that need fast color output, fax, and duplex scanning in a single device. Print speeds of 26 ppm in both black and color are among the fastest in this class, and TerraJet toner technology produces more vivid colors. The single-pass duplex scanner accelerates two-sided document digitization significantly.
Built-in HP Wolf Pro Security protects the printer and network from cyber threats, a crucial feature for businesses handling sensitive documents. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset automatically resolves connection drops. Owners praise the print quality, quiet operation, and compact footprint relative to its output capacity.
Color quality issues have been reported by a minority of users, and the renewed status means prior cosmetic wear may be present. HP’s firmware locks out non-genuine toner, tying you to HP supplies. For a fast, secure color laser with fax and duplex scanning, this renewed HP offers exceptional value if you accept refurbished condition.
What works
- Fast 26 ppm color print speed with TerraJet toner
- Single-pass duplex scanning for efficient document handling
- Built-in HP Wolf Pro Security for network protection
What doesn’t
- Color quality can be inconsistent on some units
- Renewed condition may show prior cosmetic wear
- Only works with original HP cartridges
7. Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Xerox C235dni brings proven brand reliability to the color laser all-in-one market at a mid-range price. Capable of 24 ppm in both monochrome and color, it handles typical small office volumes up to 1,500 pages per month. The starter toner yields 500 pages, and high-yield cartridges reduce ongoing costs for users printing regularly.
Setup is simplified through the Xerox Easy Assist App, which guides installation without complex driver hunting. Wireless printing via Apple AirPrint and Mopria works seamlessly with smartphones and tablets. Owners report sharp text and vibrant color graphics that elevate presentations and marketing materials.
The scanner performance has drawn criticism from some users, who report light or faded output even with settings adjusted. The SmartStart driver failed to discover the printer on Windows 11 for one reviewer, causing significant frustration. For those willing to work through potential scanner quirks, the Xerox C235dni offers solid print quality and fax capability at a competitive price.
What works
- Sharp color laser output for professional documents
- Easy Assist App simplifies initial printer setup
- Competitive price for a fax-capable color laser
What doesn’t
- Scanner output can appear light or faded
- Windows 11 driver installation may fail for some users
- Starter toner yield is only 500 pages
8. Epson Workforce WF-2930 Wireless All-in-One Printer
The Epson Workforce WF-2930 is the most affordable fax-capable all-in-one in this lineup, making it an accessible choice for home offices with light printing needs. It prints 10 pages per minute in black and 5 in color, with automatic duplex printing to save paper. The 1.4-inch color display provides basic navigation, and Alexa and Siri support enable hands-free printing.
Individual ink cartridges let you replace only the empty color, slightly reducing waste. The Epson Smart Panel app simplifies setup and operation from a smartphone. For users who print infrequently and need fax capability without a large upfront investment, this printer fills the gap.
The included ink cartridges are starter units with less than half capacity, forcing an immediate purchase of full replacements. Print quality is acceptable for text but colors can appear dull and smudged on some outputs. The plastic chassis feels flimsy, reflecting its entry-level price. This is a functional fax printer for the most budget-constrained buyer.
What works
- Lowest upfront price for a fax-enabled all-in-one
- Alexa and Siri voice-activated printing support
- Individual ink cartridges reduce replacement waste
What doesn’t
- Starter ink cartridges are less than half full
- Print quality can be dull with color documents
- Plastic construction feels cheap and flimsy
9. Epson EcoTank ET-4950 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-4950 represents the seventh generation of cartridge-free printing, bundling enough ink for up to 6,600 black pages and 5,500 color pages right in the box. For a busy office that churns through documents, this SuperTank system eliminates cartridge changes for years. The 18 ppm black and 9 ppm color print speeds are adequate for most office workflows.
The 2.4-inch color display and auto document feeder support efficient fax and copy jobs. Auto duplex printing, scanning, and copying are standard. Owners report excellent wireless connectivity, crisp text, and vibrant borderless photo prints. The uniquely keyed EcoFit ink bottles prevent accidental mis-fills, and the transparent tanks make ink levels visible at all times.
Initial setup can take up to 45 minutes due to ink charging and alignment procedures. The printer’s build feels somewhat flimsy given its premium price. Some users experience a persistent blinking light during idle operation. For offices that want the lowest possible long-term ink cost with fax capability, the ET-4950 delivers exceptional value despite a higher upfront investment.
What works
- Years of ink included in the box with massive yield
- Excellent print quality for both documents and photos
- Keyed ink bottles prevent messy refill mistakes
What doesn’t
- Initial setup takes up to 45 minutes
- Build quality feels less robust than price suggests
- Persistent blinking light during idle is distracting
Hardware & Specs Guide
Print Speed and First Page Out
Print speed, measured in pages per minute (ppm), indicates how fast the printer produces documents after the first page emerges. For fax-intensive offices, a first page out time under 8 seconds ensures quick turnaround. Mono lasers typically achieve 30-36 ppm, while color lasers average 19-26 ppm. Ink tank printers are slower, around 15-18 ppm for black text.
Auto Document Feeder and Paper Capacity
The ADF allows unattended faxing, copying, and scanning of multi-page documents. Standard ADF capacities range from 35 to 50 sheets. Paper input trays typically hold 150-250 sheets. Larger trays reduce refill frequency. For high-volume fax workflows, a 50-sheet ADF and 250-sheet tray are recommended minimums to maintain productivity.
Connectivity and Mobile Support
Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) provides stable wireless connections in busy office environments. Apple AirPrint and Mopria ensure direct printing from mobile devices without additional apps. Ethernet connectivity guarantees reliable wired performance for offices with existing network infrastructure. USB ports enable direct computer connection for quick setup.
Supply Yield and Cost Per Page
Toner cartridge yields vary from 700 pages (starter) to 6,000 pages (high-yield). Ink tank systems offer the lowest cost per page, often pennies per page. Laser printers average 2-4 cents per page for black and white. Color laser costs range from 10-20 cents per page. These figures significantly impact total cost of ownership over the printer’s lifespan.
FAQ
What is the difference between a mono laser and a color laser for faxing?
Can I use third-party toner in a fax-capable printer?
Why do some printers come with starter toner cartridges?
How important is the auto document feeder size for faxing?
Should I choose an ink tank printer or a laser printer for fax?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most home offices and small businesses, the all in one printer with fax winner is the Brother MFC-L2820DW because it combines the fastest mono laser print speed with a compact footprint, intuitive touchscreen, and low operating costs. If you need vibrant color output for client-facing materials, grab the Brother MFC-L3720CDW. And for the lowest long-term printing cost with color fax capability, nothing beats the Epson EcoTank ET-4950.