A need for professional faxing genuinely shouldn’t require you to sacrifice your valuable desk space.
The best small fax machine is fundamentally crucial for home offices, small apartments, and businesses where every square inch matters.
Consequently, selecting a compact All-in-One (AIO) printer or a digital service provides full functionality without a large, cumbersome footprint.
Bulky, old-fashioned office machines are no longer the only option for secure and reliable document transmission.
5 Best Small Fax Machines
1. Best Compact Laser: HP LaserJet MFP M234dwe
- From HP, this model packs the power and precision of laser printing into a very compact frame.
- Features fax capability through the modern HP Smart app’s Mobile Fax feature.
- Consequently, this allows you to send secure faxes from your phone without needing a phone line.
- This actively eliminates the need for extra cables, further saving space.
- Designed for speed, offering the fastest two-sided printing in its class.
- The monochrome laser engine produces incredibly sharp, professional-quality text.
- Provides a 40-page auto document feeder (ADF) for multi-page scanning and copying.
- Engineered with reliable, dual-band, self-healing Wi-Fi for a stable connection.
- Comes with HP+, a smart printing system that includes 6 months of free toner.
- Ideal for home office users who need laser quality and occasional faxing in a small space.
- Also perfect for anyone who wants to send faxes without a dedicated phone line.
- Known for its small footprint, fast duplex printing, and modern mobile fax feature.
- Represents the best choice for getting sharp laser performance in a compact design.
2. Best Overall Compact AIO: Canon PIXMA TR7020a
- From Canon’s PIXMA line, this AIO is specifically designed to be sleek and compact for home office use.
- Features a built-in 33.6Kbps Super G3 fax modem for reliable hardware faxing.
- Provides a 35-sheet auto document feeder for efficient multi-page faxing and scanning.
- Consequently, it handles typical home office documents with ease.
- Designed with a simple, user-friendly interface and a clear 1.44-inch OLED screen.
- This actively makes it easy to set up and use all its functions.
- Engineered with a five-color individual ink system for excellent document and photo quality.
- The compact design includes a two-way paper feed for added versatility.
- Offers robust wireless connectivity, allowing for easy printing and scanning from any device.
- Ideal for home offices, dorm rooms, and any workspace with limited desk real estate.
- Also perfect for users who need a reliable traditional fax in a small, modern package.
- Known for its sleek design, user-friendly operation, and versatile printing.
- Represents a fantastic all-around solution for a space-conscious home office.
3. Best for Low Ink Costs: Brother MFC-J1205W INKvestment Tank
- A compact and efficient inkjet AIO from Brother’s innovative INKvestment Tank line.
- Features mobile fax capability through the Brother Mobile Connect app.
- Consequently, you can send faxes directly from your smartphone, saving time and space.
- The key feature is its reengineered ink system with high-capacity cartridges.
- Actively provides up to a full year of ink in the box, based on average home use.
- This results in an extremely low long-term cost of operation, saving you money.
- Designed to be impressively compact and fit neatly into any home office setup.
- The Brother Mobile Connect app allows you to manage the AIO completely from your phone.
- You can print, copy, scan, and check ink levels without touching the machine.
- Boasts reliable wireless connectivity for a clean, cable-free workspace.
- Ideal for budget-conscious home users who print regularly and want to save on ink.
- Also perfect for those who want a simple, app-driven fax and print experience.
- Known for its revolutionary ink system and extremely low running costs.
- Represents the smartest compact choice for affordable, long-term printing and faxing.
4. Best Entry-Level Compact: HP DeskJet 4155e All-in-One
- From HP’s DeskJet series, this AIO is designed to be one of the most compact and affordable options.
- Features mobile fax capability for 24 months via the HP Smart app.
- Consequently, it provides a modern faxing solution without the need for a phone line.
- Provides a 35-sheet auto document feeder, a rare and valuable feature at this size and price.
- Actively makes it easy to handle multi-page school reports or work documents.
- Designed for ultimate simplicity with a straightforward setup process via the HP Smart app.
- Engineered with dual-band, self-healing Wi-Fi for a reliable wireless connection.
- Includes a 6-month trial of HP’s Instant Ink subscription service.
- This service automatically delivers ink to your door before you run out.
- Boasts a tiny footprint, making it perfect for placing on a small desk or shelf.
- Ideal for students, families, and anyone with very light printing and occasional faxing needs.
- Also perfect for users looking for the most affordable AIO from a major brand.
- Known for its small size, ease of use, and incredible affordability.
- Represents the best entry-level choice for a compact, all-in-one solution.
5. The Ultimate Smallest “Machine”: MetroFax Online Service
- An online fax service that functions as a powerful, zero-footprint fax machine.
- This solution is the absolute smallest option, as it requires no hardware at all.
- Features a simple, intuitive web portal and mobile apps for iOS and Android.
- Consequently, your fax machine exists on your laptop and smartphone, saving all your desk space.
- Provides seamless integration with your email for an easy, modern workflow.
- Actively lets you send and receive faxes as PDF attachments in your inbox.
- Designed to be extremely cost-effective, with low monthly fees.
- The subscription cost is often less than the monthly cost of a dedicated phone line.
- Allows you to choose a new local or toll-free number for a professional image.
- Also supports porting your existing number if you want to keep it.
- Ideal for minimalists, remote workers, and anyone who wants to declutter their office.
- Also perfect for businesses that are fully digital and cloud-based.
- Known for its reliability, excellent value, and zero physical footprint.
- Represents the most efficient and space-saving fax solution available today.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best small fax machine genuinely means maximizing functionality while minimizing the physical footprint; consequently, focusing on compact design and wireless features will lead you to the perfect space-saving solution.
The Ultimate Space-Saver: Online Fax vs. Compact Hardware
Your first choice is between a physical machine and a digital service.
Compact Hardware (AIOs): These are physical printers with fax capabilities designed to be small. They are great for people who also have a regular need for printing, scanning, and copying physical documents. They offer the comfort of a traditional, tangible workflow.
Online Fax Services: This is the smallest possible solution because it has a zero physical footprint. If your primary need is faxing and you want to save the absolute maximum amount of space, a service like MetroFax is unbeatable. It completely digitizes your workflow and eliminates the need for a machine, paper, ink, and a phone line.
Measuring for Success: Check Your Dimensions
Before you click “buy” on a compact AIO, take out a tape measure.
Check the Footprint: Look at the product’s specifications for its width and depth. Measure the spot on your desk, shelf, or cabinet where you plan to put it to ensure it will physically fit.
Consider the Height: Height is also important, especially if you plan to place the machine on a bookshelf or under a cabinet.
Don’t Forget the Trays: Remember that the listed dimensions are often for when the machine is closed up. Account for the extra space needed when the paper input and output trays are extended for use.
Compact Compromises: What You Give Up for a Smaller Size
To make a machine smaller, manufacturers have to make some trade-offs. It’s important to know what they are.
Paper Capacity: Small machines have smaller paper trays, often holding only 60 to 100 sheets. This is perfectly fine for home use but would be frustrating in a busy office.
Print Speed: Compact AIOs, especially at the entry-level, will have slower print speeds (PPM) than their larger office counterparts.
ADF Capacity: The auto document feeder on a compact machine will typically hold fewer pages, usually around 20-35 sheets, compared to the 50+ sheets on a large office machine.
Wireless Connectivity: The Key to a Clutter-Free Desk
For any small machine, wireless connectivity is an essential feature, not a luxury.
Wi-Fi: A solid Wi-Fi connection allows you to place the machine anywhere you have a power outlet, not just right next to your computer. You can tuck it away on a bookshelf or a side table, freeing up your primary desk space.
Mobile Apps: A great mobile app (like those from HP, Canon, and Brother) is crucial. It lets you print, scan, and send faxes directly from your phone. This means you can handle many tasks without ever needing to be at your computer, which further enhances a clean, minimalist workspace.
Tips
Go Wireless to Free Up Desk Space
Take full advantage of the Wi-Fi connectivity; Consequently, place your small AIO on a nearby bookshelf or credenza instead of on your main desk to maximize your active workspace.
Use the Mobile App Extensively
Install your machine’s mobile app on your phone; Consequently, you can use your phone’s camera as a scanner to send faxes of receipts or documents, often without ever needing to turn on your computer.
Keep Paper in a Drawer
Since small machines have small paper trays, they can’t store a full ream of paper; Consequently, keep the rest of your paper in a nearby desk drawer to keep your space tidy and the paper dust-free.
Consider a Digital-First Workflow
Even with a physical machine, try to use features like “scan to email” or “scan to cloud”; Consequently, this reduces your reliance on printing and helps to keep your physical and digital files organized.
Check Ink Subscription Options
For compact inkjet models, look into ink subscription services like HP Instant Ink; Consequently, they can save you money and the hassle of running out of ink, which is a great convenience for a small home office.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Type | Approx. Footprint (W x D) | Key Space-Saving Feature | Fax Method |
| 1. HP LaserJet MFP M234dwe | Monochrome Laser | 14.5″ x 11.8″ | Compact Laser Design | Mobile App |
| 2. Canon PIXMA TR7020a | Color Inkjet | 14.4″ x 13.8″ | Sleek, Low Profile | Hardware Modem |
| 3. Brother MFC-J1205W | Color Inkjet | 15.7″ x 13.5″ | INKvestment Tank System | Mobile App |
| 4. HP DeskJet 4155e | Color Inkjet | 16.8″ x 13.1″ | Very Low Price Point | Mobile App |
| 5. MetroFax | Online Service | 0″ x 0″ | Zero Physical Footprint | Email / App |
Export to Sheets
FAQ
Q: What is the absolute smallest fax solution? A: An online fax service like MetroFax is the smallest option as it requires no hardware at all.
Q: Are small fax machines less powerful? A: They are typically slower and have smaller paper trays, but they are perfectly powerful for home office tasks.
Q: Do I need a phone line for a small fax machine? A: Not if you choose a model that uses a “mobile fax” feature through its app, which sends faxes over the internet.
Q: Can a compact AIO handle multi-page documents? A: Yes, look for a model with an Auto Document Feeder (ADF), which is common on the best compact machines.
Q: Is a laser or inkjet AIO smaller? A: Inkjet AIOs are generally more compact than laser AIOs, though compact laser models are now available.
Q: What does “AIO” stand for? A: AIO stands for “All-in-One,” a single device that can print, copy, scan, and fax.
Q: Can I use a small fax machine for my business? A: It’s best for a home business or very light use; a dedicated small business machine is better for higher volumes.
Conclusion
The 5 best small fax machines genuinely prove that powerful features and a compact design can go hand in hand.
These essential All-in-One printers and online services provide the full range of document management capabilities without cluttering your valuable workspace.
By prioritizing a small footprint and versatile wireless features, you can find the perfect solution for your home office, apartment, or small business.
Ultimately, a great small fax machine ensures you have the professional tools you need in a size that comfortably fits your life.