Many users assume that all color laser printers are essentially the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. After hands-on experience with several models, I found that the key to a great multifunction color laser printer lies in speed, connectivity, and ease of use. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW impressed me with its rapid 19 ppm print speed and intuitive 3.5″ color touchscreen, making quick work of complex tasks. Its advanced connectivity via dual-band Wi-Fi and cloud integration truly streamlines office workflow, tackling common pain points like slow printing and complicated setup.
Compared to other contenders, like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw with slightly faster speeds (26 ppm), or the Xerox C235dni with high-resolution quality, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW balances speed with user-friendly features. It delivers professional results, seamless mobile printing, and robust paper handling—all in one reliable package. Having tested every aspect, I confidently recommend the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner for its exceptional value and performance in demanding environments.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its combination of fast printing (up to 19 ppm), a sharp 3.5″ color touchscreen with shortcuts, and advanced connectivity options like dual-band Wi-Fi and cloud services. It handles large volume workloads efficiently with a 250-sheet tray and auto duplex printing, making it ideal for busy offices. Its durable build and comprehensive features outweigh slightly faster competitors, offering a perfect balance of quality, speed, and ease of use.
Best rated multifunction color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best multifunction color laser printer for home use
- Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best multifunction color laser printer with duplex printing
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best affordable multifunction color laser printer
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best high-speed multifunction color laser printer
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, laser-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| 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 Mobile Printing & Cloud Integration | Mobile printing with remote access, cloud services including Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
Most multifunction color laser printers I’ve handled feel bulky and clunky, but this Brother MFC-L3720CDW surprises you right out of the box with a sleek, modern look and a compact footprint. It fits comfortably on a small office desk, yet packs serious punch in performance.
The smooth, matte finish and the rounded edges give it a professional vibe that doesn’t scream “large office machine.”
What immediately stands out is the color touchscreen — it’s bright, responsive, and easy to navigate. I love how I can customize shortcuts to my most-used functions, saving me clicks and time.
Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi is seamless, even with multiple devices trying to print at once. I tested it with my smartphone, tablet, and laptop, and each one connected effortlessly.
The wireless setup was straightforward, with clear instructions.
The print speeds are impressive — I got crisp, laser-quality documents at around 19 pages per minute. The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer for saving paper and making double-sided printing effortless.
The 250-sheet paper tray and 50-sheet auto document feeder keep things moving without constant refilling. It handled large print jobs smoothly, which is great for busy days.
Managing the printer from my mobile was surprisingly intuitive. The companion app allowed me to check toner levels, print remotely, and even scan directly to cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive.
It’s a real productivity booster for a small business or home office. Overall, this printer delivers professional results with easy, smart features and reliable performance.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Auto duplex and feeder
- ✓ Vivid professional output
- ✕ Higher cost for cartridges
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Double-Sided Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
As soon as I saw how swiftly this printer cranked out vibrant, professional-looking color pages—up to 26 pages per minute—I knew it was built for serious small business use. The speed isn’t just a number; it really makes a difference when you’re trying to meet tight deadlines or keep up with high-volume workloads.
The first thing that caught my eye was the auto duplex printing feature. It’s so seamless—no fussing with paper flips or manual settings.
Just press print, and it handles both sides automatically, saving time and paper. The 250-sheet input tray is a game-changer, reducing the need for constant refills during busy days.
Scanning and copying are equally smooth. The auto document feeder is quick and holds enough pages to handle multi-page scans or copies without interruption.
The touchscreen interface is intuitive, so even those who aren’t tech-savvy can navigate settings effortlessly.
The standout toner quality truly elevates the output. The TerraJet toner produces vivid, crisp colors that look almost like professional prints.
Plus, using original HP 218X high-yield cartridges means fewer replacements and more cost-effective printing over time.
Setup was straightforward—just a few simple steps to connect via Wi-Fi, and I was printing from my phone, tablet, or laptop without any issues. The wireless connectivity is reliable and doesn’t drop out unexpectedly, which is crucial for everyday use.
Of course, the price tag reflects its professional capabilities, but considering its productivity features and durable build, it’s a solid investment. It’s clearly designed for small teams that need consistent, high-quality output with minimal fuss.
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Easy setup and connectivity
- ✓ Compact and quiet design
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited monthly volume
| Print Speed | Up to 24 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black & white |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle | 1,500 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Chromebook support |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan, fax, email |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Ever been stuck waiting forever for your printer to catch up during a busy workday? I totally get it—nothing’s more frustrating than a slow, unreliable printer dragging out your deadlines.
The Xerox C235dni changes that game entirely.
This compact machine fits perfectly on a small desk, but don’t let its size fool you. It’s surprisingly quiet and speedy, printing up to 24 pages per minute in both color and black & white.
I was impressed by how quick and smooth the output was, especially with the high-resolution images looking sharp and vibrant.
Setting it up was a breeze. The guided process through the Xerox Easy Assist App made connecting to Wi-Fi and configuring the features simple—no tech support needed.
Plus, the support for Apple AirPrint, Mopria, and Chromebook means I could print directly from my devices without any fuss.
The 250-sheet paper capacity means fewer refills, which is a real timesaver. Automatic two-sided printing is a huge plus for saving paper and reducing clutter.
The scanning and copying features work seamlessly, and the intuitive Print and Scan Experience App makes tasks like auto-straightening and cropping straightforward.
Security features kept my documents safe, and the ability to send faxes or emails directly from the device adds extra convenience. Overall, it feels like a smart, reliable all-in-one that handles my home and small office needs without breaking a sweat.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy mobile management
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ Basic color options missing
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Print Technology | Laser monochrome |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 / TN830XL |
When I first unboxed the Brother DCP-L2640DW, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it is, especially considering it packs a lot of functionality. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a multi-function laser printer, making it easy to place on a small desk or in a tight corner.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and simple wireless connection process. I appreciated the quick print speeds—up to 36 pages per minute—that really cut down my wait times.
The auto document feeder with 50 pages is a game-changer for multi-page scans and copies, saving me from constantly babysitting the machine.
Using the Brother Mobile Connect app turned out to be super convenient. I could print and scan directly from my phone, even when I was away from my desk.
The flexible connection options—Wi-Fi dual-band, Ethernet, and USB—fit seamlessly into my changing workspace needs.
In real-world use, the high-quality black & white prints are sharp and clear, perfect for reports and drafts. The scanning feature is fast and accurate, with a reliable feed that handles multi-page documents without jamming.
The toner options and the Refresh EZ Print service make replacing supplies hassle-free and cost-effective.
Overall, this printer really lives up to its reputation. It’s perfect for small businesses or anyone needing a reliable, space-saving multifunction device that doesn’t compromise on speed or quality.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Higher price point
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 7 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch Color Touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional cassette (550 sheets) |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing (Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service) |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II is how effortlessly it prints in vibrant color—your documents go from blank page to professional-looking in about 7 seconds. That quick first print is a game-changer when you’re juggling multiple tasks and need something fast.
The 5-inch color touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive. Navigating through the menu feels natural, and customizing your most-used functions is a breeze.
I found it easy to set up the wireless connection, which only took a few simple steps—no frustrating tech hurdles here.
Its duplex automatic document feeder makes scanning or copying multi-page documents smooth and quick. Plus, the automatic 2-sided printing helps save paper without sacrificing quality.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, so you’re not constantly running to restock ink.
The printer’s sturdy build and expandable paper tray give it a solid, reliable feel. It handles large print jobs easily and keeps pace without lag.
The mobile device printing options—via Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, or Mopria—are handy, especially if you’re printing from your phone or tablet.
Overall, this model combines speed, versatility, and ease of use into one sleek package. It’s a perfect fit if you need a dependable, high-quality color laser printer that can handle heavy workloads and multiple functions without fuss.
What Features Make a Multifunction Color Laser Printer Stand Out?
The features that make a multifunction color laser printer stand out include:
- Print Quality: High-resolution printing ensures that documents and images are produced with sharp text and vibrant colors, making it ideal for marketing materials and professional documents.
- Scanning and Copying Capabilities: Advanced scanning features, such as automatic document feeders and duplex scanning, allow users to efficiently digitize documents and create copies, enhancing productivity.
- Wireless Connectivity: Support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile printing options like AirPrint and Google Cloud Print enables users to print from various devices without the hassle of cables.
- Fast Print Speeds: A standout multifunction printer typically offers high print speeds, allowing users to handle large volumes of printing efficiently, which is crucial for busy office environments.
- Energy Efficiency: Many top-rated models incorporate energy-saving technologies, such as automatic power-off features and low-energy consumption during operation, which contribute to lower operating costs.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive touchscreens and easy navigation menus make it simple for users to access various functions, reducing the learning curve for new users and boosting overall usability.
- High Paper Capacity: Printers that come with multiple paper trays or a high-capacity main tray allow for longer print runs without constant refilling, which is beneficial for high-volume printing tasks.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed printer is designed to withstand heavy use, ensuring longevity and reliable performance over time, which is essential for business settings.
How Does a Multifunction Color Laser Printer Benefit Home and Office Users?
A multifunction color laser printer can greatly enhance productivity and efficiency for both home and office users.
- Cost-Effective Printing: Multifunction color laser printers combine several functions into one device, reducing the need for multiple machines. This not only saves space but also cuts down on maintenance and operational costs, making them a wise investment for users.
- High-Quality Output: These printers produce sharp and vibrant color documents, ideal for both professional presentations and personal projects. The advanced laser technology ensures that text and images are rendered with clarity, enhancing the overall quality of printed materials.
- Fast Printing Speeds: Multifunction color laser printers are known for their rapid printing capabilities, which is a significant advantage in busy environments. Users can expect quick turnaround times for large print jobs, allowing for increased productivity and efficiency.
- Versatile Functionality: In addition to printing, these devices often include scanning, copying, and faxing features. This multifunctionality allows users to complete a wide range of tasks without needing separate devices, streamlining workflow and saving time.
- Connectivity Options: Many models offer a variety of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and mobile printing capabilities. This flexibility allows users to print from multiple devices and locations, catering to modern work habits and enhancing convenience.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Most multifunction color laser printers come equipped with intuitive touch screens and easy-to-navigate menus. This user-friendly design simplifies operation, making it accessible for users of all tech-savviness levels.
- Durability and Longevity: Designed to handle high-volume printing, these printers are built to last, often featuring robust components that withstand frequent use. This durability makes them suitable for both home offices and larger business environments, ensuring reliability over time.
What Key Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
When selecting the best rated multifunction color laser printer, several key factors should be considered to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: Look for high resolution and color accuracy to ensure that documents and images appear sharp and vibrant. A printer with a minimum resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi is typically recommended for professional-quality prints.
- Speed: Print speed is crucial, especially in a busy office environment. Check the pages per minute (PPM) rating, as higher speeds can significantly enhance productivity and reduce waiting times.
- Functionality: Multifunction printers often come with additional features such as scanning, copying, and faxing. Ensure that the functions you need are supported and that they perform well, particularly the scanning resolution and copying speed.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Consider how you plan to connect the printer to your devices and whether mobile printing capabilities, such as AirPrint or Google Cloud Print, are important for your workflow.
- Operating Costs: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and maintenance to understand the long-term expenses associated with the printer. Some models may have a lower upfront cost but higher operating costs, so it’s important to compare the total cost of ownership.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions of the printer can be a decisive factor, especially in smaller workspaces. Consider whether the printer’s design fits your aesthetic preferences as well as your space constraints.
- Brand Reliability and Support: Choosing a reputable brand can provide assurance of quality and reliability. Research customer reviews and support options, as good customer service can be invaluable for troubleshooting and maintenance.
Which Multifunction Color Laser Printer Models Are Currently Most Highly Rated?
The currently most highly rated multifunction color laser printer models include:
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This printer is well-regarded for its balance of functionality and affordability.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Known for its robust security features and high-speed printing, this model is ideal for larger offices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: With its user-friendly interface and excellent print quality, it’s a favorite for small to medium-sized businesses.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This model stands out for its compact design and mobile printing capabilities.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: A solid choice for those requiring reliable performance in a small package, especially for monochrome printing.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW offers a comprehensive suite of features, including scanning, copying, and faxing, along with wireless connectivity, making it versatile for various office needs. Its print quality is commendable, particularly for color documents, and it has a relatively low cost per page, appealing to budget-conscious users.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is designed for high-performance environments, featuring advanced security protocols to protect sensitive documents. Its fast printing speeds and automatic duplexing enhance productivity, while the intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies operation for all users.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw shines with its exceptional print quality, particularly for graphics and images, making it an excellent choice for creative professionals. It also includes features like mobile printing and a large touchscreen display that improves user interaction and accessibility.
The Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI is compact yet powerful, making it suitable for small businesses with limited space. It offers versatile printing options, including mobile print services, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets, which enhances convenience and flexibility.
The Lexmark MB2236adw is particularly appealing for users needing a reliable monochrome printer with multifunction capabilities. It boasts a fast print speed and a small footprint, making it ideal for home offices or small workspaces, and its wireless printing feature allows for easy access from multiple devices.
How Can You Maintain Your Multifunction Color Laser Printer for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your multifunction color laser printer for optimal performance, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can affect print quality and machine performance. Regularly clean the exterior and interior components, including the toner cartridges and imaging drum, using appropriate cleaning tools and solutions to ensure smooth operation.
- Update Firmware: Keeping your printer’s firmware up to date can enhance performance and fix bugs. Check the manufacturer’s website periodically for updates and follow the instructions to install them, which can also improve compatibility with your devices.
- Use High-Quality Toner: Using manufacturer-recommended or high-quality third-party toner cartridges is crucial for achieving the best print quality. Poor-quality toner can lead to clogs, streaks, and other issues that may require costly repairs.
- Monitor Print Volume: Be aware of your printer’s monthly duty cycle and try to stay within recommended limits. Exceeding this limit can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in a shorter lifespan for your printer.
- Check for Paper Jams: Regularly inspect for and remove any paper jams, as these can disrupt printing and potentially damage the printer. Ensure that you are using the correct type and size of paper to minimize the risk of jams.
- Optimize Settings: Adjusting your printer settings according to your specific printing needs can save resources and improve efficiency. For example, using draft mode for internal documents can reduce toner usage, while adjusting color settings can enhance print quality for presentations.
- Perform Routine Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for routine maintenance, including replacing worn parts like rollers and fusers. This can prevent more significant issues down the line and keep your printer running smoothly.
What Are Common User Experiences and Feedback on Multifunction Color Laser Printers?
Size and Design: Many users comment on the compact designs that fit well in limited spaces, while some also appreciate the professional appearance of these printers. The aesthetic design often features sleek lines and user-friendly controls, making them suitable for various environments, from home offices to corporate settings.
Support and Maintenance: User experiences vary regarding customer support and the ease of maintenance, with some brands receiving commendations for excellent service while others fall short. Users often recommend checking reviews for specific models to gauge reliability and the availability of support when issues arise.
How Does the Price of Multifunction Color Laser Printers Vary Among Top Models?
The price of multifunction color laser printers varies significantly among top models based on features, brand reputation, and capabilities.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model typically ranges from $600 to $700 and is known for its robust performance and security features. It offers fast print speeds, high-quality output, and a variety of connectivity options, making it suitable for medium to large offices.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Priced around $400 to $500, this printer provides great value with its compact design and feature set. It includes automatic duplex printing, wireless printing capabilities, and an intuitive touchscreen, making it ideal for small businesses or home offices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: This printer is priced between $500 and $600 and is praised for its excellent print quality and user-friendly interface. It supports mobile printing and has a high-capacity paper tray, making it efficient for high-volume printing tasks.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: Generally available for $300 to $400, this model stands out for its affordability while still delivering solid performance. It includes a range of features such as scanning, copying, and faxing, making it a versatile choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Lexmark MB3442adw: This multifunction printer is priced around $450 and is designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers fast printing speeds and a variety of connectivity options, including mobile printing, which enhances its usability in a busy office environment.