As offices and home workspaces modernized in 2018, all in one printers became central hubs for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. This review era focused on reliability, connectivity, and value, helping buyers choose devices that handled everyday tasks without unnecessary complexity.
Manufacturers emphasized faster processors, sharper scan quality, and mobile-friendly features, so users could print from laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The following overview captures performance, connectivity, and running costs to guide decisions for small teams and home offices.
| Model | Print Speed | Connectivity | Monthly Duty Cycle | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126a | 18 ppm | USB, Wi-Fi, Mobile | 8,000 pages | $199 |
| Canon imageCLASS MF232w | 27 ppm | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Mobile | 12,000 pages | $269 |
| Brother MFC-J995DW INKvestment | 15 ppm print / 12 ppm copy | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, NFC, Mobile | 6,000 pages | $349 (includes ink set) |
| Epson WorkForce WF-2830 | 8.8 ppm print / 4.5 ppm copy | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Mobile, Fax | 3,000 pages | $159 |
Print Speed And Quality In Real Office Use
Print speed in 2018 models often reached 15–27 pages per minute for black-and-white work, with laser models excelling on text documents. High resolution and consistent toner coverage ensured sharp reports and professional letters without smudges.
Scanning, Copying, And Fax Capabilities
Flatbed And Document Feeder Performance
Flatbed scanners handled photos and cards well, while duplex document feeders sped up multi-page copying. Optical character recognition turned paper forms into editable text, saving time on data entry.
Fax Reliability In Modern Offices
Integrated fax support remained vital for healthcare, legal, and small business users who depended on analog phone lines during power or internet outages. Secure transmission options and easy logging helped meet compliance needs.
Connectivity, Software, And Mobile Printing
Wi‑Fi, Ethernet, NFC, and USB connections allowed flexible placement across home or office networks. Manufacturers bundled mobile apps, cloud printing support, and driverless printing from PCs, simplifying daily workflows.
Running Costs, Supplies, And Long Term Value
Initial purchase price mattered, but ink or toner cartridge yield and reliability often determined total cost of ownership. High-yield tanks and solid monthly duty cycles reduced interruptions and long-term spending.
Key Takeaways For Choosing A 2018 All In One Printer
- Match monthly duty cycle to your average print volume to prevent downtime.
- Verify support for legal size and mobile printing before purchasing.
- Compare cartridge yield and replacement costs to estimate long-term expenses.
- Check network security features if the device will share sensitive data.
- Review warranty and service options, especially for office environments.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does the monthly duty cycle affect durability in a small office?
Choosing a model whose duty cycle exceeds your average monthly print volume reduces wear and extends service life, avoiding mid‑month failures.
Can these printers handle legal size documents reliably?
Yes, most 2018 all in one printers support legal size scanning, copying, and printing, provided the paper path includes a manual feed slot or bypass tray.
Are third party cartridges a safe budget option for these models?
Third party cartridges can save money, but using remanufactured or compatible supplies may affect warranty coverage and print quality consistency.
What security features should I look for on a multifunction device?
User authentication, secure print release, and encrypted network communication help protect sensitive documents from unauthorized access.