The landscape of home and small office printing shifted significantly in 2018, with multifunction devices becoming the undisputed center of the document workflow. Consumers were no longer satisfied with simple printing; they demanded copying, scanning, and often faxing capabilities integrated into a single, space-saving unit. The best multifunction printer 2018 offerings reflected this demand, prioritizing wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and cost-efficiency without sacrificing core output quality. Choosing the right model required navigating a maze of inkjet and laser technologies, each promising specific benefits for different user needs.
Defining the Modern Multifunction Printer
Before diving into specific models, it is essential to understand what constitutes the best multifunction printer 2018. These devices had to be more than just a printer; they were expected to be a complete document management hub. Core functions like high-speed printing, sharp scanning, and reliable copying formed the baseline. The real differentiators in 2018 were automatic document feeders for handling multi-page scans, duplex printing for automatic double-sided output, and robust network capabilities that allowed seamless integration into home or office environments.
The Inkjet vs. Laser Dilemma
One of the primary decisions shoppers faced in 2018 was choosing between inkjet and laser technology. Inkjet multifunction printers dominated the consumer market, offering vibrant color reproduction for photos and lower upfront costs. Models from brands like Epson, with their EcoTank series featuring refillable tanks, challenged the traditional cartridge system by providing exceptional long-term value. Conversely, laser printers, while typically more expensive to purchase, offered faster printing speeds, lower cost-per-page for high-volume text documents, and greater resilience against fading, making them a staple in busy professional settings.
Top Contenders in the Inkjet Space
In the inkjet category, several models stood out as the best multifunction printer 2018 candidates for the average user. The Epson Expression Premium XP-6400 series impressed with its borderless photo printing and included CD/DVD printing capabilities, a feature becoming rarer by 2018. For those seeking a more budget-conscious option, the Canon PIXMA TR8620 distinguished itself with its compact design, robust mobile app support, and inclusion of an auto document feeder, a feature often found in higher-priced models. These devices proved that superior photo quality and practical functionality could coexist in a single, accessible package.
For business users where speed and reliability are paramount, laser multifunction printers were the undisputed kings of the best multifunction printer 2018 landscape. The HP LaserJet Pro M402dn represented the pinnacle of compact laser printing, delivering incredibly fast text output and reliable performance in a desktop-sized chassis. Brother also held a strong position in this segment, with models like the DCP-L8250CDW offering generous paper capacities, fast warm-up times, and sharp monochrome prints. These machines were engineered for durability, handling the constant demands of a corporate environment with ease.
Connectivity and User Experience in 2018
The best multifunction printer 2018 was defined not just by its internal mechanics, but by how it connected with the user. Wi-Fi Direct became a standard feature, allowing devices to connect directly to the printer without a router. NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled effortless pairing by simply tapping a smartphone to the machine. Furthermore, compatibility with cloud services like Google Cloud Print and Apple AirPrint was no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement. The intuitive navigation through embedded touchscreen interfaces also played a crucial role in the overall satisfaction of the device.
