Finding the best printer with automatic two-sided printing and scanning can significantly save time and reduce paper waste, especially for busy offices or home setups. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 stands out for its versatility and photo quality, making it ideal for creative users. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw offers fast, high-quality color laser printing suited for larger workloads. However, buyers often face tradeoffs between cost, speed, and multifunction features. Continue reading for a detailed comparison and to identify the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance print quality, speed, and scanning features, with premium models offering faster performance and higher durability.
- Laser-based printers generally provide better text clarity and faster output for high-volume tasks, but inkjet options excel for photo and color printing.
- Automatic duplex scanning is less common and often found in higher-end models, which increases initial costs but saves time long-term.
- Build quality and ease of use vary significantly; models with larger touchscreens and straightforward interfaces tend to be more user-friendly.
- Cost per page and maintenance requirements are critical factors that influence long-term value, especially for frequent use.
| Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best for Home and Light Use | Printer Type: Color Inkjet | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing | Display: 1.42” OLED | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Office Speed and Color Quality | Print Speed: Up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Duplex: Auto duplex printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4834 Wireless All-in-One Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print, Copy, Scan, Fax, 50-Page ADF, 500-sheet Capacity, 4.3″ Touchscreen |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Office Work | Print Speed (Black/Color): 25/12 ISO ppm | Paper Capacity: 500 sheets | Automatic Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Compact Black-and-White Office Printing | Print Speed: Up to 35 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Auto Duplex: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L2900DW All-in-One Laser Printer with Scanner, Wireless Duplex Printing, 36 ppm, 3.5-inch Touchscreen |  | Best Overall for Small Business Use | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Printer Type: Laser All-in-One | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |  | Best for High-Volume Monochrome Office Work | Print Speed: 42 PPM | First Print Time: Approx. 5 seconds | Wireless: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3823 Wireless All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Balanced Speed and Quality in Professional Environments | Print Speed (Black/Color): 21/11 ISO ppm | Auto 2-Sided Printing: Yes | ADF Capacity: 35 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS6520 makes this list as the most affordable, user-friendly all-in-one for casual home use. Its high-quality color printing, combined with automatic duplexing, makes it ideal for everyday tasks like printing photos or documents. Compared to laser models like the HP LaserJet Pro, it offers vibrant color output, but its slower print speeds and media size limitations (up to 8.5” x 11”) are tradeoffs. The compact design and mobile printing options add convenience, but the small OLED display may frustrate users who prefer more detailed controls. This model excels for light printing needs but isn’t suited for busy offices or high-volume workloads.
Pros:- Affordable price point
- Excellent color print quality
- Wireless mobile printing options
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
Cons:- Limited media size (8.5” x 11” only)
- Small OLED display less intuitive
- Slower print speeds compared to laser printers
Best for: Home users and students needing reliable color printing with duplex features
Not ideal for: Small offices or high-volume environments that require faster speeds and larger media support
- Printer Type:Color Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing
- Display:1.42” OLED
- Media Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Color Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink
Bottom line: Ideal for home users seeking easy, high-quality color printing with duplex capabilities on standard media.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw stands out for its impressive speed of up to 26 ppm and reliable color laser output, making it a solid choice for small office environments. Its automatic duplex feature reduces paper waste, and the 250-sheet input tray supports high-volume tasks. Compared with inkjet options like the Canon PIXMA, which excel at photo detail, this laser model provides sharper text and faster processing, though it’s limited to small team use due to toner and media size constraints. The requirement for HP-specific toner with chips may be a drawback for cost-conscious buyers, and firmware restrictions could complicate third-party toner use. This model is best for users prioritizing speed, quality, and consistent office performance.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds
- Reliable automatic duplexing
- High-capacity input tray
- Consistent color quality
Cons:- Requires proprietary toner cartridges with chips
- Limited to small office use
- Firmware updates may restrict third-party toner
Best for: Small businesses needing fast, professional color documents and reliable duplexing
Not ideal for: Home users or large offices that require larger media support or cost-effective toner options
- Print Speed:Up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Duplex:Auto duplex printing
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Toner Cartridges:HP 218A, 218X
Bottom line: Best suited for small office environments that need quick, high-quality color printing and scanning with duplex features.
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4834 Wireless All-in-One Printer with Auto 2-Sided Print, Copy, Scan, Fax, 50-Page ADF, 500-sheet Capacity, 4.3″ Touchscreen
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4834 makes this list as the most capable in terms of volume and speed, featuring a 500-sheet paper capacity and a 50-page automatic document feeder. Its fast black-and-color printing (25/12 ppm) and scanning, combined with a user-friendly 4.3-inch touchscreen, make it a favorite for busy offices managing high workloads. Compared to laser models like the HP LaserJet Pro, this inkjet offers comparable speed with the advantage of large media capacity and versatile media handling. The use of DURABrite Ultra pigment inks ensures durability, but the upfront cost and larger footprint might be drawbacks for smaller spaces. This pick is best for offices needing continuous, high-volume duplex printing and scanning.
Pros:- High-speed printing suitable for busy offices
- Large 500-sheet capacity reduces refilling
- Automatic duplex printing and scanning
- Intuitive touchscreen controls
Cons:- Higher initial cost
- Size may be restrictive for small spaces
- Setup complexity for non-technical users
Best for: Professionals and teams with high-volume printing needs seeking durability and efficiency
Not ideal for: Small home offices or users with limited space and lower volume requirements
- Print Speed (Black/Color):25/12 ISO ppm
- Paper Capacity:500 sheets
- Automatic Document Feeder:50 pages
- Touchscreen:4.3 inches
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Inks:DURABrite Ultra pigment
Bottom line: Ideal for high-volume offices demanding fast, reliable duplex printing and scanning with large media capacity.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw offers impressive speed of up to 35 ppm, making it ideal for small teams focused on black-and-white documents. Its automatic duplexing and 250-sheet tray support high-volume tasks efficiently. Compared with color laser models like the HP Color LaserJet Pro, this printer emphasizes speed and cost-effectiveness for monochrome printing, though it’s limited to black-and-white output. Its reliance on HP-specific toner chips may increase ongoing costs, and its compact design makes it suitable for limited spaces. This model’s primary tradeoff is the lack of color, which limits its use to text-heavy or basic document workflows. This pick is perfect for teams prioritizing speed and cost in black-and-white printing.
Pros:- Fast black-and-white printing at 35 ppm
- Reliable automatic duplexing
- Compact and space-efficient
- Good for high-volume document work
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output
- Requires proprietary toner cartridges with chips
- Potential firmware updates for security
Best for: Small offices or teams needing fast monochrome printing with duplex features
Not ideal for: Users requiring color printing or large-media support
- Print Speed:Up to 35 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless Wi-Fi
Bottom line: Ideal for small teams that need quick, reliable black-and-white printing with duplex capability in a compact form.
Brother MFC-L2900DW All-in-One Laser Printer with Scanner, Wireless Duplex Printing, 36 ppm, 3.5-inch Touchscreen
The Brother MFC-L2900DW stands out for delivering high-speed monochrome printing combined with automatic duplexing and scanning, making it ideal for busy offices. Its 36 ppm print speed surpasses many competitors like the Epson WF-3823, which offers slower speeds at 21 ppm. The large 3.5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, but the monochrome-only output limits this model to black-and-white documents, unlike color-capable options such as the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II. Its bulk may be a concern for small desks, yet its reliable wireless and Ethernet connectivity ensure seamless integration into existing networks. The tradeoff for this speed and simplicity is the absence of color printing, which could be a drawback for creative or marketing needs.
Pros:- High-speed printing at 36 ppm
- Intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen
- Versatile wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Automatic duplex scanning and printing
Cons:- Monochrome only—no color printing
- Bulkier design may not suit small spaces
Best for: Small business owners or teams needing fast, reliable monochrome printing and scanning with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Users requiring color printing or compact designs for limited space
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Printer Type:Laser All-in-One
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Touchscreen:3.5 inches
- Document Handling:50-page automatic document feeder
- Energy Efficiency:Yes
Bottom line: This model is best suited for offices that prioritize speed and efficiency in black-and-white document handling.
Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
Compared with the Brother MFC-L2900DW, the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II offers a faster printing speed of 42 pages per minute and a more advanced 5-inch color touchscreen, making it easier to manage complex tasks. Its high-capacity paper tray (expandable to 550 sheets) supports large-volume printing, which is perfect for busy environments but comes at the cost of a larger footprint—less suitable for tight spaces. While it excels in speed and capacity, it shares the monochrome-only limitation with the Brother model, which could be a downside for those needing color output. The inclusion of fax and high-capacity toner makes this a comprehensive office solution, but initial setup can be somewhat technical for less experienced users.
Pros:- Fast print speed of 42 PPM
- High-capacity paper and toner options
- Large 5-inch color touchscreen
- Includes fax functionality
Cons:- Monochrome only—no color printing
- Relatively larger size and higher initial cost
Best for: Large offices or workgroups needing fast, high-volume monochrome printing with multifunction features
Not ideal for: Small offices or users who need color printing and easy setup without technical expertise
- Print Speed:42 PPM
- First Print Time:Approx. 5 seconds
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Paper Capacity:250 to 550 sheets
- Warranty:3 Years
Bottom line: Ideal for high-volume, monochrome office environments that require speed, capacity, and multifunction capabilities.
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3823 Wireless All-in-One Printer
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3823 provides a versatile solution that balances speed and quality, especially for professional environments needing reliable duplex printing and scanning. Its 21 ppm black-and-white and 11 ppm color speeds are adequate for moderate workloads, but notably slower than laser options like the Canon or Brother models. The inclusion of a 35-page ADF and large 250-sheet paper tray enhances productivity, though the reliance on Epson-specific DURABrite Ultra inks can increase ongoing costs. Unlike laser printers, it offers color printing, which broadens its usefulness beyond simple documents. If low running costs and color capability are priorities, this model stands out, but it may lag behind laser models in sheer speed for high-volume tasks.
Pros:- Reliable auto duplex printing
- Color and black-and-white capability
- Large paper capacity with 250 sheets
- User-friendly 2.7-inch color touchscreen
Cons:- Slower than laser competitors for high-volume tasks
- Requires Epson-specific inks for durability
- Potentially higher ink replacement costs
Best for: Small to medium offices that need color and monochrome printing with good speed and media handling
Not ideal for: High-volume environments where laser speed is critical or users seeking the lowest ink costs
- Print Speed (Black/Color):21/11 ISO ppm
- Auto 2-Sided Printing:Yes
- ADF Capacity:35 pages
- Paper Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Ink Type:DURABrite Ultra pigment inks
Bottom line: Best for offices balancing color versatility with dependable duplex printing in a mid-range speed package.
How We Picked
To determine the best printers with automatic two-sided printing and scanning, I evaluated each model based on key criteria: performance speed, print and scan quality, build durability, ease of use, and overall value. I prioritized models with reliable duplex capabilities and strong all-in-one features, ensuring they meet the demands of both home and office environments. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability, feature set, and long-term usability, with higher-rated models offering more seamless duplex scanning and faster processing. Products were compared against each other to highlight distinct strengths and tradeoffs, helping buyers identify options that best match various needs and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Printer With Automatic Two Sided Printing And Scanning
When choosing a printer with automatic two-sided printing and scanning, understanding the key factors can help you avoid costly mistakes and select a machine that truly fits your needs. Beyond basic features, consider how the printer’s speed, quality, and user interface will impact your daily tasks. It’s also important to weigh upfront costs against ongoing expenses like ink or toner, especially for heavy users. This guide covers the main points to keep in mind, helping you make an informed decision.Performance Speed and Throughput
Speed matters if you print or scan large volumes regularly. Laser printers typically deliver faster output than inkjets, especially for text-heavy documents. Look for models with high ppm (pages per minute) ratings and quick scanning times to reduce wait times during busy periods. Keep in mind, however, that faster devices may come with higher upfront costs and larger footprints, so balance speed with your available space and budget.
Print and Scan Quality
Clear, crisp output is essential for professional documents, while photo quality matters for creative projects. Laser printers excel at sharp text, whereas inkjet options may produce richer color images. For scanning, resolution (measured in dpi) determines detail and clarity; higher dpi options are better for detailed artwork or archival purposes. Consider your primary use case to prioritize quality features accordingly.
Ease of Use and User Interface
A straightforward interface with a large, responsive touchscreen can make setup and daily use much easier. Complicated controls or small screens may slow down your workflow, especially if multiple users access the device. Also, look for models that support mobile printing and scanning via apps or cloud services, streamlining connectivity across devices and platforms.
Cost of Operation and Maintenance
Initial purchase price is just part of the total cost; ongoing expenses like ink, toner, and maintenance can add up. Laser printers tend to have higher upfront costs but lower per-page costs, making them more economical for frequent use. Inkjet printers, while cheaper initially, often require more frequent cartridge replacements. Assess your typical usage patterns to choose a model with a sustainable operating cost.
Build Quality and Long-Term Reliability
Durability depends on the materials and engineering behind the machine. Higher-quality models with robust construction tend to last longer and handle more intensive workloads without frequent breakdowns. Features like automatic duplex scanning should be reliable over time, so reviewing user feedback and manufacturer warranties can provide insight into long-term performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a printer with automatic duplex scanning for legal or thick documents?
Yes, many modern all-in-one printers with duplex scanning can handle legal-sized or thicker documents, but it’s important to check the maximum document weight and size specifications. Some models include a document feeder designed for multiple pages, which makes scanning large or thick stacks more efficient. If you often scan bulky documents, verify that the device supports your specific needs before purchase.
Are inkjet printers with duplex scan capable of high-volume scanning?
While inkjet printers with duplex scanning are suitable for occasional or moderate use, they may not be ideal for high-volume scanning due to slower speeds and more maintenance. Laser-based models typically provide faster throughput and better durability for frequent, large-scale scanning tasks. Consider your volume requirements carefully to choose the right technology for consistent performance.
Does automatic two-sided scanning impact the overall speed of printing and copying?
Automatic duplex scanning can slightly increase the time needed for scanning tasks because the machine must process both sides of each page. However, for printing and copying, many models can perform duplexing quickly, often at speeds comparable to simplex (single-sided) modes. If speed is critical, look for models that specify fast duplex scan and print times to minimize delays.
How important is the size and footprint of a multifunction printer with duplex features?
Size matters if you have limited space, especially in small offices or home setups. Larger, more feature-rich models tend to take up more room but often offer greater durability and higher capacity. Conversely, compact models may sacrifice some performance or capacity but fit better in tight spaces. Balance your space constraints with your expected workload to find the best fit.
Is it worth paying extra for models with advanced scanning features like OCR or cloud integration?
Investing in a model with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and cloud capabilities can streamline workflows, especially if you regularly digitize documents or need remote access. These features reduce manual effort and improve accuracy when converting scanned images into editable text or sharing files online. For heavy document management tasks, paying more upfront may lead to significant time savings and enhanced productivity.
