Laser Printer All in One vs Single Function | Choosing What Fits

A laser printer all in one adds scanning and copying to printing, while a single-function model prints only, sized for dedicated print work.

Deciding between a laser printer all in one vs single function comes down to one question: do you actually need to scan, copy, or fax? A single-function laser printer handles only print jobs. An all-in-one unit, sometimes called a multifunction printer, combines print with scanning, copying, and often faxing in one device. Brother’s US lineup shows the split clearly — the HL series covers print-only models, while the MFC series carries the all-in-one label. This distinction shapes everything from your upfront budget to the footprint on your desk.

What Does “All-in-One” Mean On A Laser Printer?

An all-in-one laser printer bundles several office functions into a single chassis. Brother’s US product pages describe models like the MFC-L2710DW and MFC-L8895CDW as all-in-one devices, with capabilities that extend beyond printing. The core feature set typically includes print, scan, and copy, with fax appearing on many models.

Common functions across these devices include duplex printing, mobile printing, and an automatic document feeder that handles multi-page jobs. The MFC-L2900DW, for instance, is a compact monochrome all-in-one with single-pass duplex copy and scan, fax support, and a 50-page automatic document feeder. Higher-end models add conveniences like ID Copy, sorting functions, and reduction or enlargement from 25% to 400%, plus single-pass duplex scanning that captures both sides of a page in one pass.

Why Choose A Single-Function Laser Printer?

A single-function laser printer serves one purpose, and it serves it well. That narrower focus usually translates to a lower upfront cost and a smaller footprint, which matters when desk space is scarce. For print-only workflows, there’s no unused hardware eating space or adding to the purchase price.

If your routine never involves scanning documents, copying forms, or sending faxes, a print-only model keeps things simple. The trade-off is that a future scanning need means buying a separate device later. That’s the hidden cost to weigh before saving money up front.

Matching The Choice To Your Workflow

The right pick depends on how often you need more than printing. Occasional scanning that happens a few times a month might justify a separate flatbed scanner later, but regular document handling points squarely at an all-in-one. Brother positions its MFC devices for home offices and small workgroups where copy and scan duties come up daily.

Two common mistakes drive most missteps. First, buying a single-function printer when your workflow regularly includes scanning or copying — that creates a separate-device requirement later. Second, choosing an all-in-one when you only need print, which adds cost and footprint without real benefit.

Comparing The Core Differences

Don’t assume all all-in-one models share the same scan and copy power. Brother’s own lineup varies — the MFC-L3780CDW offers single-pass duplex copy and scan with speeds up to 29/22 ipm (black/color), while other models skip that feature or offer a smaller ADF. Check the spec sheet for your exact model before buying. Also remember that “laser” doesn’t mean color; Brother makes both monochrome and color all-in-one laser models, so verify the output type you need.

If you’re leaning toward an all-in-one, our tested roundup of the best all-in-one laser printers compares current models on speed, features, and value, so you can narrow the field before committing.

FAQs

Is a single-function laser printer cheaper to run?

Running costs depend on toner yield and price per page, which vary by model, not by function class. An all-in-one laser printer for home office use often shares the same toner platform as a print-only sibling, so the cost per page can be nearly identical. The meaningful price gap usually appears at purchase — a scanner, ADF, and fax hardware add to the sticker price — not in ongoing toner costs.

How much desk space does an all-in-one laser printer take up?

An all-in-one laser printer typically takes up noticeably more room than a single-function model because it houses a flatbed scanner, control panel, and document feeder above the paper path. A compact model like the Brother MFC-L2900DW keeps the footprint modest, but generally expect a wider and taller chassis than a print-only device.

Is fax support still worth paying for?

Fax support matters if you regularly exchange signed documents with offices that refuse email, such as healthcare providers or legal firms. If that workflow doesn’t exist, fax is dead weight you’re paying for. Many all-in-one models include fax as a standard feature, so it’s rarely a separate cost, but it’s also rarely a reason to pick one model over another.