Here are the compact printers I would genuinely suggest for back-to-school.

      In today's digital world, everything is online until you encounter the professor who still insists on a printed essay, or the lease that requires an ink signature, or the photo you want to display in your dorm. That's typically when you realize you no longer have a printer, and the nearest one at the library has a long queue.

      I reviewed four compact printers that address this need without occupying too much desk space or costing a fortune. Two are designed specifically for documents, one is a full-featured all-in-one suitable for serious home office tasks, and one is purely focused on transforming your camera roll into printed memories.

      **Brother Work Smart 1360 All-in-One Printer**

      **Pros**

      - Compact and space-efficient design

      - Handy automatic document feeder

      - Supports automatic duplex printing

      - Fast printing speeds for black text

      **Cons**

      - No automatic double-sided copying

      - Higher costs for ink replacements over time

      If you're seeking a reliable printer for your dorm room without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice. This all-in-one printer can print, copy, and scan, offering automatic duplex printing and a 150-sheet tray. The 20-sheet automatic document feeder is particularly useful for scanning multiple pages at once.

      With a 1.8-inch color display, you can print directly from or scan to Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and other cloud services without the need for a computer. The Brother Mobile Connect app allows you to manage your printing through your smartphone. It delivers speeds up to 16 pages per minute for black and 9 pages per minute for color, which is impressive for this price range.

      The scanner accommodates both flatbed and sheet-fed documents, enabling you to handle both book photos and loose sheets without switching modes. Weighing just under 17 pounds, it is designed to stay on your desk rather than be portable.

      **Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer**

      **Pros**

      - Lightweight and compact for easy portability

      - Strong wireless connectivity for mobile devices

      - Allows storage of custom printable document templates

      - Great quality for photo and document printing

      **Cons**

      - Optional battery sold separately

      - Slower print speed overall

      If you prefer a smaller, lighter printer that can be easily carried in a backpack, consider the Canon PIXMA TR160. It utilizes a 5-color ink system suitable for regular documents and photos, including borderless printing for a professional look.

      The 1.44-inch OLED screen keeps you updated on ink levels and printer status without needing to use your phone. You can save up to five templates to print directly from the display, perfect for repetitive forms or flyers.

      Connectivity options include the Canon app, AirPrint, or Mopria, along with a direct connection mode for instances when no Wi-Fi is available. An optional battery is available for complete cordless use. Weighing in at just under 4.5 pounds and slim enough for a backpack, it's perfect for taking to class rather than leaving on a desk.

      **Epson Workforce WF-110 Wireless Mobile Printer**

      **Pros**

      - Lightweight and compact design

      - Battery included with the printer

      - Convenient USB charging options

      **Cons**

      - Slower print speed

      - Limited paper tray capacity

      The Epson Workforce WF-110 is ideal for those seeking a truly portable printing solution. Small enough to fit in your backpack, it comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can be charged via USB or AC adapter. You can also use it plugged in to save battery life. An optional external battery pack is available for extended printing needs.

      It connects via Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing document printing from devices without a router. However, expect slower printing speeds when operating on battery power.

      This printer requires genuine Epson cartridges only, which should be considered as part of the long-term costs. Weighing 4.6 pounds and about the size of a small stack of textbooks, it is highly portable. However, its price may be a concern. Nonetheless, the built-in battery and compact design justify the expense.

      **Kodak Step Instant Photo Printer**

      **Pros**

      - No need for ink cartridges

      - Good quality for photo prints

      - Mobile app supports filters, borders, stickers, etc.

      **Cons**

      - Uses microUSB for charging

      - Replacement paper can be pricey

      This last option isn’t designed for documents; it’s meant purely for creating fun prints. Connecting to your phone via Bluetooth or NFC, it prints small 2 by 3-inch photos on sticky-back paper using Kodak’s ink-free Zink technology. The prints are surprisingly durable, resisting smudges and moisture.

      The accompanying app enhances the experience by allowing you to add filters, borders, stickers, and text before printing, making your photos resemble scrapbook pages rather than simple snapshots. Its compact size fits easily into your pocket, and it yields around 25 prints per charge with the built-in battery, which charges through a micro-USB cable.