The question Do all printers have scanners?
often arises when shopping for a new device, especially if you need both printing and scanning capabilities.
With so many printer types available, it’s easy to assume all models include scanners, but that’s not the case.
This guide clarifies which printers offer scanning, explores multifunction devices, and provides cost-saving tips to meet your needs.
Let’s dive into the world of printers and scanners!
Understanding Printer Types
Printers come in various forms, each designed for specific tasks. Not all include scanners, as their primary function is printing. Here’s a breakdown:
Inkjet Printers
Inkjets, like the Canon Pixma TS3722, are popular for home use, offering vibrant color prints. Some, like the HP DeskJet 4252e, are single-function (printing only), while others, like the Epson Expression XP-6100, are all-in-one (AIO) models with scanners, copiers, and sometimes fax.
Laser Printers
Laser printers, such as the Brother HL-L2350DW, excel in high-volume monochrome printing. Many are print-only, but multifunction lasers like the Brother MFC-L2820DW include scanners and copiers, ideal for offices.
Tank Printers
Tank printers, like the Epson EcoTank ET-5850, use refillable ink for cost savings. Most are AIOs, like the Canon MegaTank G3270, with flatbed scanners or automatic document feeders (ADFs) for multi-page scanning.
Specialty Printers
Photo printers, like the Canon Selphy, or label printers focus on niche tasks and rarely include scanners. These are single-function devices prioritizing print quality over versatility.
Do All Printers Have Scanners?
Direct Answer
No, not all printers have scanners. Single-function printers, like the Brother HL-L2350DW or HP DeskJet 2722e, are designed for printing only.
Multifunction or all-in-one printers, such as the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e or Canon Pixma TS3722, include scanners, often with copying and faxing capabilities.
Check the product specs for “AIO” or “MFP” (multifunction printer) to confirm scanning features.
What Are Multifunction Printers?
Multifunction printers (MFPs) or all-in-one (AIO) devices combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing.
They’re ideal for homes or offices needing versatile document handling. Key features include:
- Flatbed Scanners: A glass surface for scanning single sheets, photos, or books, common in models like the Epson XP-6100.
- Automatic Document Feeders (ADFs): Feed multiple pages for scanning or copying, found in office-oriented MFPs like the Brother MFC-J4335DW.
- Wireless Connectivity: Scan to smartphones or cloud services via Wi-Fi, as seen in the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e.
- Duplex Scanning: Scan both sides of a page automatically, available in premium models like the Epson EcoTank ET-5850.
MFPs save space and cost compared to separate devices, but single-function printers are cheaper if scanning isn’t needed.
Why Some Printers Don’t Include Scanners
Single-function printers focus on printing to keep costs low and designs compact.
For example, the Canon Pixma TS3350 ($49) is print-only, targeting budget users.
Manufacturers like HP and Brother offer both types to cater to different needs:
- Home Users: May prefer compact, print-only inkjets for occasional use.
- Offices: Often choose MFPs for scanning, copying, and faxing to streamline workflows.
- Specialized Tasks: Photo or label printers skip scanners to optimize print quality.
If you only print, a single-function model saves money, but an MFP adds versatility for minimal extra cost.
How to Choose a Printer with a Scanner
When shopping for a printer with a scanner, consider these factors:
- Scanning Needs: For occasional scans, a flatbed scanner (e.g., Canon Pixma TS3722) suffices. For multi-page documents, choose an ADF-equipped model like the Brother MFC-L2820DW.
- Print Volume: High-volume users benefit from tank printers like the Epson EcoTank ET-5850 ($799.99) or lasers like the HP MFP 3301fdw, which pair scanners with low ink/toner costs.
- Connectivity: Look for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB for scanning to devices or cloud platforms (e.g., Google Drive).
- Resolution: Scanners with 1200 dpi, like the Epson XP-6100, excel for photos or detailed documents.
- Budget: Entry-level AIOs like the HP DeskJet 4252e ($79) offer basic scanning, while premium MFPs like the Brother MFC-J4335DW ($179.99) add advanced features.
Cost Comparison: Single-Function vs. Multifunction Printers
| Printer Type | Model Example | Price | Features | Ink/Toner Cost (1,000 Pages) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Function Inkjet | HP DeskJet 2722e | $59 | Print only | $50 (HP 67) |
| AIO Inkjet | Canon Pixma TS3722 | $49 | Print, scan, copy | $56 (PG-275/CL-276) |
| Single-Function Laser | Brother HL-L2350DW | $149.99 | Print only | $25 (TN760 generic) |
| AIO Laser | Brother MFC-L2820DW | $249.99 | Print, scan, copy, fax | $25 (TN760 generic) |
| AIO Tank | Epson EcoTank ET-5850 | $799.99 | Print, scan, copy, fax | $19.80 (T542) |
Analysis: AIOs like the Canon Pixma TS3722 are nearly as cheap as single-function models but add scanning. For high-volume needs, AIO tank or laser printers save on ink/toner while offering robust scanning.
Unique Insight: Scanner Quality vs. Dedicated Scanners
While AIO printers offer convenience, their scanners may not match dedicated scanners for professional needs.
MFP flatbeds typically max out at 1200 dpi, suitable for documents or casual photos, but dedicated scanners like the Epson Perfection V600 reach 6400 dpi for archival or graphic design work.
If you scan high-resolution images or negatives, consider a separate scanner.
For most users, AIO scanners, especially in models like the Epson EcoTank, handle everyday tasks like digitizing receipts or photos with ease.
Cost-Saving Tips for Printers with Scanners
- Use Third-Party Ink: Generic cartridges for Brother or Canon AIOs cost 50–75% less. For example, a Canon PG-275 generic is $15 vs. $30 OEM.
- Ink Subscriptions: HP Instant Ink ($3–$25/month) or Brother Refresh EZ Print save up to 50% for AIO users.
- Scan Digitally: Save ink by scanning and emailing documents instead of printing and mailing.
- Eco Settings: Draft mode reduces ink use for test prints, preserving resources.
- Recycle Cartridges: HP and Canon programs offer free recycling, reducing e-waste and sometimes earning discounts.
Environmental Considerations
Printers, especially single-function models, contribute to e-waste, with 300 million devices discarded yearly.
AIOs reduce clutter by combining functions, and tank printers like the Canon MegaTank G3270 minimize cartridge waste.
Recycling programs recover 70% of cartridge materials, but only 15% are recycled globally.
Using generics or refills for AIOs lowers environmental impact, making multifunction printers a sustainable choice for scanning and printing.
When to Choose a Printer Without a Scanner
Opt for a single-function printer if:
- You rarely scan and want to save money (e.g., HP DeskJet 2722e, $59).
- You need high-quality prints for photos or labels, like the Canon Selphy.
- Space is tight, and a compact printer fits better. Choose an AIO if:
- You scan documents, photos, or receipts regularly.
- You want copying or faxing capabilities.
- You value convenience and space-saving designs.
FAQs
Can I add a scanner to a printer that doesn’t have one?
No, you can’t add a scanner to a print-only printer, as scanning requires built-in hardware like a flatbed or ADF.
Instead, buy a separate scanner, like the Epson Perfection V39 ($99), or upgrade to an AIO like the Canon Pixma TS3722 ($49), which includes scanning and copying.
For occasional scanning, use smartphone apps like Adobe Scan, but for frequent or high-quality needs, an AIO or dedicated scanner is more reliable and efficient.
What’s the difference between a flatbed scanner and an ADF in AIO printers?
Flatbed scanners, found in AIOs like the HP DeskJet 4252e, are glass surfaces for scanning single sheets, photos, or books, ideal for delicate items.
ADFs, in models like the Brother MFC-L2820DW, feed multiple pages automatically, perfect for scanning multi-page documents quickly. Flatbeds are versatile but slower for bulk tasks, while ADFs streamline office workflows.
Premium AIOs like the Epson EcoTank ET-5850 offer both, with duplex ADFs for two-sided scanning, balancing convenience and speed.
Why do some printers, even with scanners, not work well for scanning?
AIO scanners in budget models like the Canon Pixma TS3722 (1200 dpi) are reliable for basic tasks but may struggle with high-resolution photos or heavy use compared to dedicated scanners.
Dust on the glass, outdated drivers, or low-quality software can affect performance. Clean the flatbed, update firmware manually, and use manufacturer scan apps (e.g., HP Smart) for better results.
For professional scanning, like archival photos, a dedicated scanner like the Epson Perfection V600 (6400 dpi) outperforms AIOs.
Do all AIO printers include faxing along with scanning?
Not all AIOs include faxing. Entry-level AIOs like the HP DeskJet 4252e offer printing, scanning, and copying but no fax.
Office-oriented models, like the Brother MFC-J4335DW or HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e, add faxing for sending documents. via fax lines.
If faxing isn’t needed, choose a scan-and-copy-print AIO to save money. For digital faxing, apps like Fax.Plus with apps use your AIO’s scanner, reducing reliance on traditional fax hardware needs.
Conclusion
When asking, Do all printers have scanners?, the question is clearly no—only multifunction or all-in-one printers like the HP’s OfficeJet Pro 9125e or Brother MFC-J4335DW include scanners.
Single-function models focus on printing alone. By choosing an AIO, you gain versatility for scanning, copying, and more, often at a small price premium.
Consider your needs, use cost-saving strategies, and pick an eco-friendly option for efficient, budget-friendly printing and scanning.