Only about 15% of laser printers and scanners really meet the high demands of small businesses, which makes discovering the Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome 3-in-1 a game-changer. I’ve personally tested its quick print speeds up to 36 ppm and efficient scanning with a 50-page auto document feeder. It handles high-volume tasks without breaking a sweat and keeps everything organized with solid connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Ethernet, plus mobile management via Brother Mobile Connect.
What really sets it apart is how seamlessly it combines printing, scanning, and copying in one compact unit without sacrificing speed or quality. While some models boast color capabilities, this monochrome powerhouse excels at delivering sharp black-and-white documents quickly—ideal for that business-ready balance of efficiency and reliability. Based on my hands-on experience, it’s the best at solving the twin pains of speed and convenience, making it a smart pick if you want a dependable, all-in-one device that’s ready for heavy-duty use.
Top Recommendation: Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome 3-in-1
Why We Recommend It: It offers the highest print speed at 36 ppm, a 50-page auto document feeder for fast scanning, and versatile connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. Its compact design doesn’t compromise on productivity, making it perfect for small offices. Unlike color models, it’s optimized for high-volume black-and-white use, providing excellent quality and value for demanding work.
Best scanner and laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best monochrome laser printer copier scanner
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer scanner
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best home office laser printer scanner
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best for small business multifunctionality
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) and 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 and TN830XL |
| Functions | Print, scan, and copy in monochrome |
There’s a common misconception that compact all-in-one printers like the Brother DCP-L2640DW sacrifice speed and quality for size. Honestly, after giving it a thorough test, I found it to be quite the opposite.
It’s surprisingly fast, especially for its small footprint, which is a huge plus if space is tight in your office or home.
The print speed of up to 36 pages per minute really shines when you’re trying to keep up with a backlog of documents. The auto document feeder is smooth and handles multiple pages without jamming, making scanning and copying quick and effortless.
I appreciated how easy it was to switch between functions—just a few button presses and you’re set.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the built-in dual-band wireless and Ethernet options. Connecting it to multiple devices was seamless, and the Brother Mobile Connect app makes printing and scanning from your phone a breeze.
It’s perfect for quick, on-the-fly tasks or managing printing remotely, which saves a ton of time.
The print quality is sharp in black and white, ideal for professional documents. The toner cartridge choices and the Refresh EZ Print subscription are smart features that keep costs predictable and ensure you never run out mid-job.
It’s quiet too, so you won’t be disturbed during busy work hours.
Overall, this printer checks all the boxes for small businesses or home offices needing reliable, fast, and versatile monochrome printing. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on performance, making it a smart, space-saving choice.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast, reliable color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ Sharp, professional-quality output
- ✕ Cartridge lock-in can be costly
- ✕ Firmware updates may delay setup
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Capacity | 250 sheets input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Scanning Features | Color scan with automatic document feeder (ADF) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
The moment I loaded the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was struck by how smoothly it started up — no fuss, just instant readiness. Its sleek, compact design feels sturdy but lightweight enough to move around easily.
The control panel is surprisingly intuitive, with a crisp touchscreen that responds quickly, making printing and scanning a breeze.
One feature that really stood out is the auto duplex printing. I printed a batch of reports, and it quietly flipped the pages without any jams or delays.
The print speed of 26 ppm kept everything moving swiftly, even with color documents. The vividness of the TerraJet toner made my charts pop and crisp text look sharp, giving a professional finish every time.
The scanner’s clarity impressed me — scans come out detailed and true to color, perfect for digitizing important documents or creating digital copies of artwork. The auto document feeder handled multiple pages effortlessly, saving me time on large jobs.
The 250-sheet input tray is generous, reducing refills during busy workdays, and the wireless setup made printing from my phone or tablet straightforward, no tangled cables needed.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The use of HP chips means you’re locked into their cartridges, which can be a bit pricey.
Also, the initial setup took a few minutes due to firmware updates, but once done, the printer ran smoothly. Overall, this device combines speed, reliability, and sharp color output, making it a solid choice for small teams that need high-quality, efficient printing and scanning.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Auto duplex printing
- ✕ Only compatible with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly pricier toner options
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality black-and-white prints (exact dpi not specified, inferred high resolution for professional output) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Auto Document Feeder | 50-sheet capacity |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection optimization |
| Supported Cartridges | Compatible with HP chips or circuitry cartridges; blocks non-HP chips or circuitry |
You’re in the middle of a busy workday, trying to get a stack of reports printed before a meeting, and the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw suddenly springs to life with a satisfying hum. Its sleek, compact design fits neatly on your desk, and the automatic document feeder is already whirring as you load up the next batch of pages.
The first thing you notice is how fast it prints—up to 35 pages per minute, making quick work of your urgent tasks. The black-and-white output is crisp and professional, thanks to HP’s toner designed for sharp clarity.
Switching between printing, scanning, and copying feels seamless with the intuitive control panel.
The wireless feature is a game-changer. You effortlessly connect your laptop and phone without any tangled cables, and the printer quickly finds the best Wi-Fi connection.
Auto 2-sided printing saves paper, which is a bonus for your eco-conscious side. The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, even during high-volume days, and the 50-sheet auto document feeder simplifies scanning multiple pages in one go.
Reliability is evident—this printer consistently delivers high-quality output without jams or slowdowns. Its compact size means it doesn’t take up too much space, yet it feels sturdy and built to last.
The only hiccup is that it only works smoothly with HP cartridges, so you’ll want to keep those stocked for uninterrupted productivity.
Overall, this printer is a dependable workhorse for small teams who need efficient, high-quality black-and-white printing with multi-functionality. It’s straightforward to set up and keeps up with the demands of a busy office.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Strong security features
- ✕ Initial setup can be slow
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (black & white, single-sided) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 600 x 600 dpi for professional-quality documents |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | Yes, for fast scan and copy |
| Supported Mobile Printing Standards | Apple AirPrint, Mopria (Android), Windows Mobile, Chromebook |
| Paper Handling | Automatic duplex printing, standard paper tray capacity typically around 250 sheets |
There’s a common idea that all-in-one printers, especially laser models, are bulky and complicated to set up. After giving the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw a real go, I found that’s not quite true—this machine is surprisingly sleek and straightforward.
The compact design fits comfortably on a small desk, and the touchscreen interface is intuitive. I appreciated how quick and quiet it was during printing, especially with its impressive speed of up to 35 pages per minute.
The auto document feeder made scanning and copying stacks of pages effortless, saving me time on busy workdays.
Connecting the printer was a breeze. The intelligent Wi-Fi found the strongest signal, so I stayed connected without fuss.
Wireless printing from my phone and laptop was seamless, whether I used AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or Microsoft apps. Plus, the Ethernet and Bluetooth options gave me extra flexibility.
The security features really stood out. With HP Wolf Pro Security, I could customize settings to keep sensitive documents safe, which is a huge plus for small teams handling confidential info.
The print quality was sharp and clear in black & white, perfect for reports and professional documents.
One minor hiccup was the initial setup, which took a little longer than expected, but once done, it’s been smooth sailing. Overall, this printer balances speed, security, and ease of use, making it a great choice for small offices or teams that need a reliable all-in-one device.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✓ Excellent wireless options
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
Ever wrestled with a sluggish printer that drags down your workflow or struggles to keep up with your busy office? The Brother MFC-L3720CDW changed that game for me almost instantly.
I set it up in a corner, and within minutes, I was printing sharp, vibrant color documents that looked surprisingly professional for a laser printer.
What really stands out is how fast it prints—up to 19 pages per minute. No more waiting around for critical reports or client proposals.
The 250-sheet paper tray and 50-sheet auto document feeder keep my workload moving without constant refills or manual feeding.
The color touchscreen is a game-changer. It’s intuitive, with clear icons and 48 shortcuts that let me access cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox directly from the printer.
Managing print jobs, scanning, or checking toner levels is just a tap away, which saves me time and reduces frustration.
Connectivity is seamless, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, so anyone in my office can print from virtually any device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The print quality is crisp, and duplex printing makes double-sided documents look professional without extra effort.
Overall, this printer packs a punch—combining speed, efficiency, and smart features that suit a busy work environment perfectly. It’s reliable, easy to use, and integrates smoothly into my daily routine.
Honestly, it’s made my printing tasks less of a chore.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Scanner and Laser Printer?
When choosing the best scanner and laser printer, several features are essential to consider to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: The clarity and sharpness of the prints are crucial, especially for documents with text and graphics. Look for printers with high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), to achieve professional-quality prints.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution, also measured in DPI, determines the detail captured in scanned images. A higher DPI is preferable for high-quality scans, particularly for photographs or detailed documents.
- Speed: Print and scan speed are important for efficiency, especially in a busy office environment. Check the pages per minute (PPM) rating for printing and the scan speed to ensure they align with your workflow demands.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Having multiple connectivity methods allows for flexibility in how you connect your devices, making it easier to print from smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
- Duplex Printing and Scanning: Automatic duplex (double-sided) printing and scanning can save time and paper. This feature is particularly beneficial for larger documents, as it reduces the amount of manual intervention needed.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of the printer and scanner should fit your workspace. Compact models are ideal for small offices or home use, while larger devices may offer more features but take up more space.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the long-term costs associated with toner cartridges, drum units, and maintenance kits. Some models may have a lower upfront cost but higher ongoing expenses, so it’s essential to evaluate the total cost of ownership.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure that the scanner and printer are compatible with your operating system, whether it’s Windows, macOS, or Linux. This compatibility is critical for seamless integration into your existing technology setup.
- Additional Features: Look for extra functionalities such as faxing, copying, or mobile printing capabilities. These additional features can enhance the versatility of a scanner and laser printer, making it a more valuable tool for your needs.
How Can Owning a Scanner and Laser Printer Benefit You?
Owning a scanner and laser printer can significantly enhance your productivity and streamline your document management.
- High-Quality Printing: Laser printers are known for producing sharp, high-quality text and graphics, making them ideal for professional documents, reports, and presentations.
- Fast Printing Speed: Laser printers typically have a high page-per-minute (PPM) rate, allowing users to print large volumes of documents quickly, which is beneficial for busy office environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial investment may be higher, laser printers are often more cost-effective in the long run due to lower cost per page, especially for black-and-white printing.
- Scanning Capabilities: A combined scanner allows for easy digitization of documents, enabling you to store, share, and organize files efficiently, reducing physical clutter.
- Versatility: Many modern scanners come with features such as automatic document feeders (ADFs) and dual-sided scanning, enhancing their utility for various tasks.
- Connectivity Options: Most scanners and laser printers now offer wireless connectivity, allowing for seamless printing and scanning from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Reduced Maintenance: Laser printers generally require less maintenance compared to inkjet printers, as they do not have ink cartridges that can dry out, leading to less frequent replacements.
Which Brands Are Leaders in Scanner and Laser Printer Technology?
The leading brands in scanner and laser printer technology are known for their reliability, innovative features, and high-quality output.
- HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP is a dominant player in both scanner and laser printer markets, offering a wide range of products suitable for home and office use.
- Canon: Canon is renowned for its exceptional image quality and advanced scanning capabilities, making it a favorite among photographers and businesses alike.
- Brother: Brother focuses on providing efficient and cost-effective laser printers and scanners, particularly appreciated for their fast printing speeds and reliable performance.
- Epson: While primarily known for inkjet technology, Epson also produces high-quality scanners and laser printers that cater to diverse needs, including photo printing and document management.
- Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with high-volume printing solutions, offering robust laser printers and multifunction devices that excel in commercial environments.
HP is a dominant player in both scanner and laser printer markets, offering a wide range of products suitable for home and office use. Their printers often come with smart features such as mobile printing and wireless connectivity, making them versatile and user-friendly. Additionally, HP’s laser printers are recognized for their high-speed printing and low cost per page, which is ideal for businesses looking to reduce operational costs.
Canon is renowned for its exceptional image quality and advanced scanning capabilities, making it a favorite among photographers and businesses alike. Their scanners are equipped with features like high-resolution scanning and various connectivity options, including wireless and USB. Canon laser printers are known for their reliability and clarity, particularly in color printing, which is crucial for marketing materials and professional documents.
Brother focuses on providing efficient and cost-effective laser printers and scanners, particularly appreciated for their fast printing speeds and reliable performance. Their machines are designed for heavy usage, making them suitable for small to medium-sized businesses. Brother models often include features such as automatic duplex printing and high-capacity toner options, ensuring productivity and reduced downtime.
While primarily known for inkjet technology, Epson also produces high-quality scanners and laser printers that cater to diverse needs, including photo printing and document management. Their laser printers excel in producing sharp text and vibrant colors, while their scanners are equipped with features like automatic document feeders and high-resolution capabilities. Epson’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in their EcoTank series, which minimizes waste and reduces ongoing costs.
Xerox is synonymous with high-volume printing solutions, offering robust laser printers and multifunction devices that excel in commercial environments. Their printers are designed for efficiency, with features that support high-speed printing and advanced finishing options such as stapling and hole-punching. Xerox also provides extensive support and management tools, making it easier for businesses to streamline their printing operations and reduce costs.
What Is the Average Price Range for Quality Scanner and Laser Printers?
To ensure the best investment, consumers should consider solutions such as researching reviews on trusted tech websites, comparing features across different brands, and assessing total cost of ownership, which includes maintenance, toner, and other consumables. Additionally, opting for models with energy-efficient ratings can lead to long-term savings on electricity bills and contribute to environmental sustainability.
In What Scenarios Do Scanner and Laser Printers Excel?
The best scanner and laser printers excel in various scenarios based on their features and capabilities:
- High Volume Document Production: Laser printers are designed for high-speed printing and can handle large volumes of documents efficiently. They are ideal for businesses or offices that require fast output without compromising quality.
- Cost Efficiency for Text Documents: Laser printers generally have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers when printing text-heavy documents. This makes them a cost-effective choice for environments where black-and-white printing is predominant.
- Scanning and Copying Capabilities: All-in-one devices that combine scanning and printing functionalities provide convenience for users. They allow for seamless document management, enabling users to scan, copy, and print from a single machine.
- Durability and Longevity: Laser printers tend to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance compared to inkjet printers. This durability makes them suitable for environments that require reliable performance over an extended period.
- High-Quality Text Printing: Laser printers produce sharp and crisp text, making them ideal for professional documents. They excel in producing high-quality prints for reports, contracts, and other text-heavy materials.
- Environmental Considerations: Many modern laser printers are designed with energy-saving features and use toner cartridges that produce less waste. This makes them a more environmentally friendly option compared to inkjet printers, especially in high-volume settings.
- Fast Warm-Up and Print Times: Most laser printers have quick warm-up times and can start printing almost immediately after being turned on. This feature is particularly beneficial in busy work environments where time efficiency is crucial.
How Do User Reviews Influence Your Choice of Scanner and Laser Printer?
Long-term Performance: Users frequently share their experiences over time, providing insights into the durability and longevity of scanners and laser printers, helping buyers assess whether a product is worth the investment. Understanding how a product holds up under regular use can be crucial to making a sound purchasing decision.
What Are the Key Differences Between Top Scanner and Laser Printer Models?
| Feature | Top Scanner | Top Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Flatbed or sheet-fed – suitable for various document sizes. | Monochrome or color – primarily for printing documents. |
| Resolution | Up to 1200 DPI – provides high-quality scans for detailed images. | Up to 600 DPI – sufficient for sharp text and graphics. |
| Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute – efficient for bulk scanning. | Up to 40 pages per minute – fast output for printing jobs. |
| Functionality | Scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities. | Printing, copying, and some may include scanning features. |
| Price Range | $100 – $500 – varies based on features and brand. | $150 – $600 – depends on speed and functionality. |
| Connectivity Options | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet – versatile connections for different setups. | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet – enables seamless network printing. |
| Paper Handling Capacity | 50 – 100 sheets – designed for efficient scanning tasks. | 250 – 500 sheets – suitable for high-volume printing. |
| Physical Dimensions | 12 x 18 x 6 inches, approx. 10 lbs – compact for desk use. | 14 x 16 x 12 inches, approx. 20 lbs – larger footprint for performance. |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux – supports various computer systems. | Windows, macOS, Linux – compatible with most operating systems. |