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For most home users, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 is the most versatile choice; the Canon MegaTank PIXMA G3290 is the better value pick, and the Canon PIXMA G620 is the strongest option when standard-size photo output matters more than document features. The Epson prints only up to Letter/A4, while the G3290 and G620 also emphasize low running costs. Choose the Canon PIXMA TR8620a if multi-page scanning and color accuracy are priorities, or the Epson Expression Photo XP-980 if you want higher-end photo quality and wide-format support.
There is no universal, independently measured “top five” ranking here. The models below come from current evaluations by RTINGS, Tom’s Guide, Digital Camera World and Which?, which use different tests and categories. Treat this as a needs-based shortlist, not a shared laboratory league table.
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What are the best all-in-one photo printers in 2026?
The best model depends on whether you value low ink cost, photo fidelity, scanning convenience or large prints. These five cover the most useful combinations for home and small-office buyers.
| Model | Best fit | Photo and media strengths | Important limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon MegaTank PIXMA G3290 | Best value all-in-one for home photos | Detailed photos, refillable ink tanks, duplex printing, Wi-Fi and low estimated color-page cost | No automatic document feeder (ADF); one paper tray |
| Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 | Best versatile Letter/A4 photo all-in-one | Colorful, detailed photos, refillable tanks, scanner and low replacement-ink cost | Prints only up to 8.5 x 11 inches; colors can look oversaturated |
| Canon PIXMA G620 | Best standard-size photo emphasis | Six dye-based inks and bottled-ink economy for regular Letter/A4 photos | Exact all-in-one features vary by region; confirm the local specification |
| Canon PIXMA TR8620a | Best for scanning and connectivity | ADF-equipped scanner, more connectivity and better color accuracy than the entry alternative discussed by RTINGS | Higher ongoing ink cost and a somewhat narrower color range |
| Epson Expression Photo XP-980 | Best photo quality and wide-format alternative | Better photos and larger-format printing than the ET-2410 | Slower printing and lower page yield; higher purchase price |
RTINGS says it has tested more than 170 printers since 2020, but that figure describes its overall testing history, not these five products alone. Model availability, bundled ink and feature names can differ by country, so check the exact regional listing before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How should you choose an all-in-one printer for photos?
Start with the photographs you actually print, then check document features and ink economics. A printer that produces attractive images but cannot handle your paper size or scanning workload will be frustrating regardless of its review score.
Photo quality is more than “vibrant” color
Look for fine detail, smooth gradients, natural skin tones and a wide color range. “Vibrant” output may mean pleasingly saturated colors rather than faithful reproduction. RTINGS specifically notes that the ET-8500 can oversaturate colors, so photographers seeking close monitor-to-print matching should use the correct paper profile, disable unnecessary enhancement modes and judge a calibrated test print.
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Confirm paper size and media support
Letter (8.5 x 11 inches) and A4 cover most household prints, but they are not interchangeable in every borderless or specialty-paper setting. The ET-8500 is limited to 8.5 x 11-inch printing; Epson’s ET-8550 is the wider-format sibling and supports prints up to 13 x 19 inches. The XP-980 is the wide-format choice in this shortlist. Before ordering, verify borderless support, paper thickness limits, envelope handling and the exact glossy or fine-art media you intend to use.
Separate printer price from ink cost
Tank printers usually cost more initially but can reduce replacement-ink spending for people who print often. Cartridge models can make more sense for occasional users who would rather avoid a larger upfront payment. Photos consume substantially more ink than ordinary text pages, so a low monochrome cost does not predict photo cost.
Tom’s Guide estimated the G3290 at about 0.9 cents per color page compared with a stated 1.9-cent category average in its 2025 review. That is the publisher’s estimate under its test assumptions, not a guaranteed current cost. Which? reported that an A4 photo exceeded £3 on some tested models in 2026; that is UK-market context and should not be generalized to every printer or region.
Decide how much scanning you will do
A flatbed scanner handles single photos, receipts and occasional pages. An ADF is much faster for a stack of documents, but it adds cost and complexity. The G3290 lacks an ADF according to Tom’s Guide, while RTINGS identifies an ADF-equipped scanner on the TR8620a.
Is the Canon MegaTank PIXMA G3290 the best value all-in-one photo printer?
Yes, it is the strongest value-oriented pick when low running cost and good home photos matter more than high-volume document scanning. Tom’s Guide selected it as its best all-in-one printer for photos, highlighting photo quality, refillable ink, duplex printing and Wi-Fi.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What the G3290 does well
- Refillable MegaTank reservoirs reduce the need for frequent cartridge purchases.
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper for everyday documents.
- Wi-Fi makes it practical for phones, tablets and multiple household computers.
- It combines printing, copying and scanning in one home device.
- Tom’s Guide measured 9.2 pages per minute in simplex and 7.2 pages per minute in duplex in its 2025 review. Those are that publisher’s test results, not a universal manufacturer speed specification.
Where the G3290 falls short
The single paper tray means you may need to swap plain and photo paper manually. There is no ADF, so scanning or copying a multi-page document requires placing each sheet on the glass. If your weekly work includes contracts, school packets or receipts in batches, the TR8620a is a better fit even though its ink costs are higher.
Who should buy it?
Choose the G3290 for family photos, school projects, occasional copying and routine home documents when you want tank-style economy without paying for wide-format output. It is less suitable for a photographer who needs precise color matching, multiple paper stocks loaded at once or fast multi-page scanning.
Is the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 the best all-round photo choice?
The ET-8500 is the most balanced option for buyers who print detailed, colorful photos and also need a scanner for everyday work. RTINGS highlights its refillable tanks, low replacement-ink costs and strong photo detail, but warns that its color can be oversaturated.
Why the ET-8500 stands out
- Photo output has strong detail and pleasing color for home albums, crafts and framed prints.
- Refillable tanks are economical for regular users.
- The built-in scanner covers ordinary copying and photo digitization.
- It handles standard Letter/A4 output, which is enough for most home photo projects.
What its size limit means
The ET-8500 prints up to 8.5 x 11 inches. If you need 11 x 17 or 13 x 19-inch images, move to a wide-format model such as the ET-8550 or consider the XP-980 in this shortlist. Do not assume that the ET-8500’s other features carry over to the ET-8550 without checking the local specification.
How to manage oversaturation
Begin with the printer’s standard photo mode and the manufacturer’s profile for your chosen paper. If reds, greens or skin tones look exaggerated, turn off automatic enhancement, select the exact paper type and let the application manage color. Print a small test image before committing expensive glossy sheets.
Is the Canon PIXMA G620 better for dedicated standard-size photos?
The G620 is the focused choice for buyers who primarily print regular Letter/A4 photos and value a six-color dye-based system with bottled-ink economics. Digital Camera World selected it as its favorite regular-size photo printer.
Why six inks matter
Six dye-based inks can provide smoother blends and more nuanced color in photographs than a basic four-ink arrangement. That advantage is most visible in skies, skin tones and subtle shadows, although the final result still depends on paper, driver settings and the image itself.
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- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What to verify before purchase
The source recommendation treats the G620 primarily as a photo-printer pick, and exact features can vary by region. Confirm whether the local version includes the scanner, copier functions, duplex operation, wireless standards and the paper sizes you need before describing it as a full all-in-one. Also check the replacement-ink code for your market; bottled-ink names are not universal across countries.
Best use case
Pick the G620 when photographs are the main workload and ordinary documents are secondary. It is a sensible middle ground between a dedicated photo machine and a document-first all-in-one, provided the regional feature set matches your expectations.
Should you choose the Canon PIXMA TR8620a for scanning?
Choose the TR8620a when document handling is nearly as important as photo output. RTINGS describes it as a similarly priced alternative to the ET-2410 with better color accuracy, additional connectivity and an ADF-equipped scanner.
Its practical advantages
- The ADF can feed a stack of pages for copying or scanning instead of requiring one sheet at a time.
- Additional connectivity options make it easier to use in a mixed-device household.
- RTINGS reports better color accuracy than the ET-2410 alternative.
- It can be more convenient than a tank model for users who print infrequently and do not want a large upfront tank investment.
The trade-off
RTINGS also reports a somewhat more limited color range and higher ongoing ink costs than the ET-8500. If you print hundreds of photos or large batches of color pages, those consumables can outweigh the lower initial commitment. If you scan contracts, tax forms or school documents every week, the ADF may save more time than the extra ink costs.
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The XP-980 is worth considering when photo quality and wide-format capability are more important than speed or ink yield. RTINGS lists it as a pricier alternative that produces better photos and larger prints than the ET-2410.
What you gain
- Wide-format support opens up larger artwork, panoramas and display prints.
- Photo quality is stronger than the ET-2410’s according to RTINGS.
- It is aimed more directly at photographic output than a basic office all-in-one.
What you give up
RTINGS reports slower printing and a lower page yield. That combination makes the XP-980 less attractive for large document runs or users who measure value mainly by pages per refill. Calculate how many large photos you will print each month, then compare the cost of media and ink—not just the printer’s shelf price.
How do these five models compare for common buying priorities?
| Priority | Best match | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest ongoing ink expense for regular home use | G3290 or ET-8500 | Both use refillable tanks and are cited for lower replacement-ink costs. |
| Most balanced photo-and-document setup | ET-8500 | Detailed photos, scanner and tank economy in a standard-size package. |
| Multi-page scanning | TR8620a | Its ADF is the clearest document-handling advantage in this group. |
| Six-color standard-size photo printing | G620 | Six dye-based inks and bottled-ink running-cost advantage. |
| Large photographic prints | XP-980 | Wide-format support and better photos than the ET-2410. |
| Lowest-risk choice for occasional printing | TR8620a or a lower-cost cartridge model | A tank’s higher upfront cost is harder to justify when it sits unused for long periods. |
How do you calculate the real cost of photo printing?
Use a simple monthly estimate rather than relying on a quoted “cost per page.” Count the number of photos, their size, the paper price and the ink consumed by your printer’s coverage pattern.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- Estimate your monthly photo volume and split it by size, such as 4 x 6 and Letter/A4.
- Check the current price and stated yield of the exact ink bottle or cartridge for your regional model.
- Add photo-paper cost; premium glossy and fine-art sheets can cost more than the ink.
- Include occasional cleaning cycles and wasted sheets when comparing infrequently used inkjets.
- Compare the result with a local photo lab, especially for large batches or prints over A4.
Published figures are useful for direction, not guarantees. Tom’s Guide’s G3290 estimate and Which?’s UK observation about A4-photo pricing were produced under specific test and market conditions, so your paper brand, image coverage, electricity rates and local consumables can change the result.
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Correct paper and color settings usually make a larger difference than changing a single quality slider. Use this workflow for any of the five models.
- Install the current driver or mobile app for your exact regional model.
- Select the paper manufacturer and surface type in the print dialog; “plain paper” settings can produce dull or oversaturated glossy prints.
- Choose the printer’s highest practical photo quality for final prints, but use draft or standard mode for proof sheets.
- Set the application and printer so only one device manages color; double color management can create casts.
- Print a small crop or test image, allow dye-based prints to dry, then judge color under neutral light.
- Store unused photo paper flat and sealed. Humidity and curled sheets can cause feeding marks or uneven coverage.
What are the most common problems with photo all-in-ones?
Banding or missing colors
Run the nozzle check and cleaning routine once, then print another check. Repeated deep cleaning consumes ink; if several cycles do not restore a pattern, stop and follow the model’s service guidance rather than wasting a tank.
Colors look too dark or too saturated
Confirm the paper type, disable automatic enhancement and use the correct profile. The ET-8500 is specifically noted for possible oversaturation, so compare a controlled test image before changing monitor settings.
Paper jams or skewed photos
Fan the stack, load fewer sheets, adjust the guides without pinching the paper and verify that the media thickness is supported. Mixed paper sizes in a single tray are a common cause of failed feeds.
Ink dries after long periods of non-use
Inkjet printers generally behave best with occasional use. If you print only a few photos a year, a cartridge model or an external photo lab may be more economical than paying for a tank system that sits idle. Never remove a tank printer’s vent plugs or improvise ink; use the specified consumable for the exact regional model.
Which printer should you buy?
Buy the Canon MegaTank PIXMA G3290 if your priority is affordable home photo printing with copying, scanning, duplexing and Wi-Fi. Choose the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 for the most complete standard-size photo-and-everyday mix, while accepting that its colors may need adjustment. The Canon PIXMA G620 is the focused six-ink choice for regular Letter/A4 photos, the Canon PIXMA TR8620a is the practical document-scanning alternative, and the Epson Expression Photo XP-980 is the specialist option for higher-quality wide-format work.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Before checkout, confirm the regional model number, maximum paper size, ADF status, wireless features and compatible ink code. Those details can change between markets and are more important to your result than a generic “best printer” label.
How long do refillable photo-printer inks last?
There is no single answer because yield depends on image coverage, paper size, cleaning cycles and how often the printer is used. A tank that lasts a long time for text pages can be depleted quickly by full-coverage glossy photos, so use the manufacturer’s regional yield estimate only as a planning baseline.
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It can replace a lab for convenient family prints, school projects and many display images, but not every job. Labs remain attractive for very large quantities, specialized finishes, color-managed commercial work and prints larger than the printer supports.
Do I need an ADF if I already have a scanner?
No, not for occasional single-page scans or photographs. An ADF becomes valuable when you regularly scan or copy multi-page documents, because it removes the need to lift the scanner lid and align every sheet manually.
Is a six-ink printer always more accurate?
Additional inks can smooth gradients and expand tonal detail, but accuracy also depends on profiles, paper and driver settings. A well-configured four-ink printer can look more natural than a six-ink model running the wrong media profile.
Should occasional users buy a tank printer?
Only if the lower refill cost outweighs the higher purchase price over your expected print volume. If the printer may sit unused for months, consider cartridge pricing, maintenance behavior and the option of ordering prints from a local service before committing to a tank system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which all-in-one photo printer has the cheapest ink?
The Canon MegaTank PIXMA G3290 and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 are the clearest low-running-cost candidates because both use refillable tanks. Actual spending depends on regional ink prices, photo coverage, cleaning cycles and paper, so published page estimates are not guarantees.
Can I print 13 x 19-inch photos on the ET-8500?
No. The ET-8500 is limited to 8.5 x 11-inch output. Epson’s ET-8550 is the wider-format sibling, while the XP-980 is the wide-format alternative in this shortlist.
Which model is easiest for scanning a stack of documents?
The Canon PIXMA TR8620a is the best fit because RTINGS identifies an automatic document feeder on its scanner. The G3290 has a flatbed scanner but no ADF, so each page must be placed manually.
Why do my printed photos look more colorful than my monitor?
Printer enhancement modes, an incorrect paper setting or double color management can exaggerate saturation. Select the exact media type, use one color-management system and test with a known image before changing your display.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
