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

      Everything is digital, except when you encounter the professor who still requests a printed essay, the lease that requires an ink signature, or the photo you want to put on your dorm room wall. That's usually the moment you realize you don't own a printer anymore, and the nearest option is a library machine with a lengthy queue.

      I reviewed four compact printers that address this issue without monopolizing your desk space or straining your budget. Two are designed for documents, one is a true all-in-one suitable for home office tasks, and one focuses on turning your camera roll into tangible prints.

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

      **Brother**

      **Pros**

      - Compact design that saves desktop space

      - Convenient automatic document feeder

      - Supports automatic two-sided printing

      - Fast printing speeds for black text

      **Cons**

      - No automatic double-sided copying

      - High long-term ink replacement costs

      If you're in need of a reliable printer for your dorm room at a reasonable price, this is the ideal choice. It functions as a true all-in-one printer, capable of printing, copying, and scanning, featuring automatic two-sided printing and a 150-sheet tray. Additionally, it includes a 20-sheet automatic document feeder, which is very useful for scanning multiple pages at once.

      The 1.8-inch color display allows you to print directly from or scan to Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and other cloud services without needing a computer. The Brother Mobile Connect app also provides similar control via your phone. Print speeds reach up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color, which is impressively fast for a printer at this price point.

      The scanner accommodates both flatbed and sheet-fed documents, so you can handle a photo from a book and a stack of loose pages without having to change settings. Weighing just under 17 pounds, it's clear that this printer is designed to stay on a desk rather than be transported.

      **Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer**

      **Canon**

      **Pros**

      - Compact and lightweight for easy portability

      - Strong wireless connectivity with mobile devices

      - Can store custom printable document templates

      - High-quality document and photo printing

      **Cons**

      - Optional battery must be purchased separately

      - Slower overall print speed

      For those seeking a more compact and lighter option, easily stowable in a backpack, the Canon PIXMA TR160 is a great choice. It uses a 5-color ink system that works for both standard documents and photos, including borderless prints for a more professional look.

      The 1.44-inch OLED screen allows you to monitor ink levels and printer status without needing your phone. You can also save up to five templates for quick printing directly from the display, which is convenient for frequently reprinting forms or flyers.

      This printer connects via the Canon app, AirPrint, or Mopria, and has a direct connection mode for situations without a wireless router. There’s also an optional battery for completely cordless operation. Weighing just under 4.5 pounds and slim enough to fit in a backpack, it’s the type of printer you would actually take to class rather than leave at home.

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

      **Epson**

      **Pros**

      - Compact and lightweight design

      - Includes a built-in battery

      - Convenient USB battery charging

      **Cons**

      - Slow printing speed

      - Smaller paper tray capacity

      The Epson Workforce WF-110 is designed for those who prioritize mobility. Its small size allows it to fit in a backpack, and it features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can be charged via USB or an AC adapter. You can also use it plugged into a wall outlet, should you choose.

      Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct connectivity enable printing from your phone, tablet, or laptop without needing a router. However, keep in mind that printing speed will decrease when using the battery instead of a wall outlet.

      This printer requires genuine Epson cartridges, which is an important factor to consider for long-term costs. At 4.6 pounds and roughly the size of a small stack of textbooks, it's highly portable. The only potential drawback is its price, but the built-in battery and compact design make it a genuinely portable option that can be justified.

      **Kodak Step Instant Photo Printer**

      **Kodak**

      **Pros**

      - No ink cartridges needed

      - High-quality photo printing

      - Mobile app includes filters, borders, and stickers

      **Cons**

      - Uses a microUSB charging port

      - Replacement paper can be expensive

      This last printer isn't meant for documents; it's purely for enjoyment. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth or NFC and prints small 2 by 3 inch photos on adhesive-backed paper, using Kodak’s ink-free Zink technology. The prints are notably durable, resisting smudges and moisture, surpassing expectations for such a small device.

      The accompanying app adds value by allowing you to incorporate filters, borders, stickers,