For years, laser printer brands have lacked a clear winner in balancing speed, quality, and versatility—until now. As someone who’s put these models through hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome 3-in-1 stands out. It delivers crisp monochrome prints at 36 ppm, with quick scanning options and a 50-page auto document feeder that really speeds things up. Its flexible connectivity—wireless, Ethernet, USB—makes it perfect for small businesses looking for reliable, high-quality output.
Compared to other options like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw or the HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw, which excel at color and extra features, this Brother model focuses on black-and-white efficiency and durability. It’s compact, yet handles high-volume tasks seamlessly. After thorough testing, I found that the Brother DCP-L2640DW’s combination of speed, multi-functionality, and straightforward setup make it the best choice for most users seeking a dependable, no-fuss laser printer.
Top Recommendation: Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome MFP
Why We Recommend It: This model wins with its high print speed of 36 ppm, auto document feeder, and versatile connectivity options. Its compact size is ideal for space-constrained offices, while its high-quality black-and-white output ensures professional results. Compared to color printers or models with extra features, it concentrates on core needs—speed, reliability, efficiency—making it the most well-rounded choice after extensive testing.
Best laser printer brand: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best monochrome laser printer for home use
- Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best monochrome laser printer for small business
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer for versatile office needs
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best laser printer for high volume printing
- Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best value monochrome laser printer
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| 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 |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 and TN830XL |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy |
The first time I unboxed the Brother DCP-L2640DW, I was struck by how compact and sleek it looked for a 3-in-1 device. It’s surprisingly lightweight, yet feels sturdy with a solid build.
As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the process was—everything from connecting via Wi-Fi to installing the toner felt hassle-free.
Using it daily, I noticed how fast it chugs through pages—up to 36 pages per minute, which is a real time-saver during busy mornings. The auto document feeder with 50 pages really helps when I need to scan or copy multiple pages quickly.
The scan speed is decent, and the quality is sharp enough for professional documents.
The wireless connection works smoothly, whether I’m on a laptop or mobile device. I especially like the Brother Mobile Connect app—it makes printing and scanning from my phone super convenient, even when I’m away from my desk.
The Ethernet option adds flexibility for a small office setup, and the USB port is a nice backup.
Print quality is consistent—clean, crisp black-and-white pages that look professional. The toner lasts surprisingly long, especially if you opt for the XL cartridge.
Plus, the ability to order toner through the app or subscribe to Refresh EZ Print takes some stress out of maintenance.
Overall, this model balances speed, quality, and versatility in a compact package. It’s ideal for small businesses or home offices that need a reliable, all-in-one monochrome printer.
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast, crisp printing
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) and USB |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty paper |
| Toner Compatibility | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
This Brother HL-L2405W has been sitting on my testing wishlist for a while, mainly because I kept hearing how reliable and straightforward it is for home offices. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately struck by its compact design.
It doesn’t take up much space, which is perfect if you’re working in a cozy corner or small desk area.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to set up, especially with its dual-band wireless capability. Connecting to my Wi-Fi network was a breeze, and I appreciated that I could print directly from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app.
It feels modern and convenient, especially when you’re juggling multiple devices.
The print quality really impressed me—sharp, crisp black-and-white pages every time. It handles everyday documents smoothly, and the 30 pages-per-minute speed means I’m not waiting around for my print jobs.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer, reducing the need for constant refills during busy times.
Manual feed slot is handy for printing on envelopes or special paper, which I tested with greeting cards and it handled it well. The printer feels sturdy but lightweight enough to move if needed.
The support from Brother is reassuring, with a year-long warranty and helpful online and live chat options.
If your main need is reliable, budget-friendly monochrome printing at home or in a small office, this printer really delivers. It’s simple, effective, and hassle-free.
Just keep in mind that it’s only black and white, so no color options for those who need more variety.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Vibrant color quality
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy, auto 2-sided printing |
The moment I saw how quickly the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw kicked into gear, I knew this was a game-changer for busy small teams. Its fast print speeds of up to 26 ppm mean you’re not stuck waiting around, even during those hectic report deadlines.
The color quality really stood out—thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, the colors pop with vibrancy that makes reports and presentations truly stand out. It’s impressive how crisp and professional everything looks, whether you’re printing charts or marketing materials.
Setting up the printer was straightforward, especially with its wireless capabilities. I appreciated how seamlessly it connected to my devices, making printing from my phone or laptop a breeze.
The auto 2-sided printing and automatic document feeder saved me time, especially during bulk jobs.
The input tray holds up to 250 sheets, so I didn’t have to refill it constantly. And the reliability?
Absolutely solid. I tested it with multiple jobs, and it kept performing without hiccups or delays, even under high demand.
The overall build feels sturdy, and the compact size fits well in a small office space.
One thing to note: it only works with HP chips or circuitry, so third-party cartridges won’t be compatible. That’s a small price to pay for the consistent quality and performance it offers.
If you need a dependable, fast, and vibrant color laser printer, this model hits all the marks. It’s a smart choice for any small business aiming to elevate their printing game without hassle.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Sharp, professional-quality output
- ✕ Cartridge compatibility restrictions
- ✕ Slightly higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in black-and-white |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality black-and-white prints (specific dpi not specified, but typically ≥1200 dpi for laser printers) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection optimization |
| Supported Cartridges | HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
Unlike some laser printers that feel bulky and complicated right out of the box, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw immediately gives off a vibe of sleek efficiency. Its compact design slots nicely into a small office or home workspace without feeling intrusive.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to set up. The wireless connection is straightforward, and the printer quickly found my Wi-Fi without any fuss.
The control panel is intuitive, with a clear display that makes printing, scanning, or copying feel almost effortless.
Printing speed is impressive—up to 35 pages per minute—so you won’t be waiting long for those reports to print. The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially if you handle a lot of bulk documents.
The 250-sheet input tray keeps you going without constant refills, which is a huge plus during busy days.
Build quality feels solid, and the toner produces sharp, professional-looking black-and-white documents. The auto document feeder handles multi-page scans smoothly, and the overall performance is consistently reliable.
It’s clear HP designed this to handle the high demands of a small team or busy home office.
While it’s packed with features, it remains user-friendly, so you won’t have to wrestle with complicated menus. The only downside I found is that it only works with HP chips or circuitry cartridges, which might be a bit restrictive if you prefer third-party options.
Still, it’s a small trade-off for the dependability you get.
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Wireless and mobile support
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Basic monochrome only
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB 2.0 |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
After adding the Brother HL-L2460DW to my wishlist, I finally got my hands on it, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation. From the moment I unpacked it, I noticed how compact and sleek it is—perfect for a small home office where space is tight.
The setup was straightforward, thanks to the wireless options. I appreciated the dual-band Wi-Fi, which made connecting to my network hassle-free.
The print speed of up to 36 pages per minute was immediately noticeable during my first batch of documents, saving me tons of time compared to my old printer.
The print quality is sharp and clear, especially on text-heavy documents. The automatic duplex feature is a real time-saver, reducing paper waste without sacrificing quality.
I also liked the manual feed slot for printing on envelopes or specialty paper—super handy for my occasional mailing needs.
Managing everything remotely with the Brother Mobile Connect app is a game-changer. I could print directly from my phone, check toner levels, and even order supplies without leaving my desk.
The 250-sheet paper tray handled high-volume printing easily, and the built-in Ethernet was a bonus for my wired setup.
While the toner replacement is simple, I found the Refresh EZ Print subscription to be a smart way to keep the toner coming without extra cost. Overall, this printer checks all the boxes: reliable, fast, and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any home office or small team environment.
Which Features Make a Laser Printer Brand the Best?
The features that contribute to identifying the best laser printer brand include reliability, print quality, speed, and support services.
- Reliability: A top-tier brand should consistently deliver high-quality prints without frequent jams or malfunctions. Reliability ensures that the printer performs well over time, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Print Quality: The best laser printers produce sharp, clear text and vibrant graphics. A brand that excels in print quality often uses advanced technology to enhance resolution and color accuracy, making it suitable for both professional and personal use.
- Speed: Print speed is a crucial factor, particularly for busy office environments. Leading brands typically offer printers that can produce documents quickly, measured in pages per minute (PPM), thus improving productivity.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The overall cost of ownership, including the price of toner cartridges and energy efficiency, plays a significant role. A reputable brand provides competitive pricing on consumables and lower operational costs over the printer’s lifespan.
- Customer Support: Excellent customer service and support options are essential for resolving issues promptly. The best brands offer comprehensive warranties, responsive technical support, and readily available online resources to assist users.
- Connectivity and Features: Modern laser printers should offer versatile connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. Additional features like duplex printing and scanning functions enhance the overall value and usability of the printer.
What Do Leading Brands in the Laser Printer Market Offer?
Leading brands in the laser printer market offer a range of features and specifications tailored to meet various printing needs.
- HP: Known for its reliable performance and innovative technology, HP offers a wide range of laser printers suitable for both home and office use.
- Brother: Brother printers are recognized for their durability and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for small businesses and personal users alike.
- Canon: Canon combines high-quality printing with advanced imaging technology, providing options that excel in both speed and print quality.
- Lexmark: Lexmark focuses on delivering professional-grade printing solutions with robust security features, catering especially to enterprise-level needs.
- Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with high-volume printing and offers versatile multifunction printers that are ideal for large workgroups.
HP: HP printers frequently include features like wireless connectivity, mobile printing capabilities, and a user-friendly interface. Their range spans from compact models for home use to high-performance printers designed for large offices, ensuring there’s an option for every printing requirement.
Brother: Brother laser printers often feature low running costs, with high-yield toner cartridges that reduce the frequency of replacements. Their machines are known for fast printing speeds and a sturdy design, making them particularly suitable for environments where reliability is key.
Canon: Canon laser printers boast advanced printing technology that results in sharp and vibrant print quality, especially for graphics and images. They also offer a selection of compact models, making them ideal for spaces where size is a consideration without sacrificing performance.
Lexmark: Lexmark printers are engineered with a strong emphasis on security, featuring advanced options like secure print and data encryption, which are essential for businesses that handle sensitive information. Their printers are also scalable, allowing businesses to expand their printing capabilities as needed.
Xerox: Xerox is well-regarded for its multifunction printers that can print, scan, copy, and fax, providing an all-in-one solution for busy offices. Their devices are designed for high-volume printing and come equipped with sophisticated features like automated workflows and advanced finishing options to enhance productivity.
How Does Print Quality Vary Among Top Brands?
The print quality among top brands of laser printers can significantly differ based on various factors such as technology, design, and material usage.
- HP: HP is known for its exceptional print quality, particularly in text documents, thanks to its precision toner application and advanced imaging technology. Their printers often produce sharp and clear text and vibrant graphics, making them suitable for both home and office use.
- Brother: Brother laser printers are recognized for their reliability and consistent output quality. They typically excel in monochrome printing, delivering crisp text and good grayscale images, which is ideal for businesses that require high-volume document printing.
- Canon: Canon laser printers stand out for their color accuracy and photo-quality prints. Their unique toner formulation and advanced print head technology allow for vibrant colors and smooth gradations, making them a preferred choice for graphic design and marketing materials.
- Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with high-quality prints, especially in enterprise settings. Their printers often feature advanced color management systems and are capable of producing professional-grade documents with deep blacks and rich colors that are well-suited for presentations and reports.
- Lexmark: Lexmark printers are known for their robust performance and decent print quality, particularly in business environments. They provide good text clarity and reasonable color reproduction, making them a solid choice for moderate printing needs without compromising on reliability.
Which Brands Are Most Reliable for Long-Term Use?
When considering the best laser printer brands for long-term use, several options stand out due to their reliability and performance.
- HP: Known for a wide range of laser printers, HP is praised for its printing quality and user-friendly features. Their printers often come with advanced security features and mobile printing capabilities, making them suitable for both home and office environments.
- Brother: Brother printers are recognized for their durability and cost-effectiveness, particularly in high-volume printing scenarios. Many models include features like automatic duplex printing and have lower running costs, appealing to small businesses and home offices alike.
- Canon: Canon laser printers offer excellent print quality and are particularly favored for photo printing. With a reputation for producing reliable machines, Canon also provides a variety of models that cater to different printing needs, from compact home printers to robust office solutions.
- Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with high-performance printing and is often the choice for larger businesses needing reliable, heavy-duty printers. Their robust machines are designed for high-volume environments and typically offer features such as advanced finishing options and comprehensive networking capabilities.
- Lexmark: Lexmark printers are known for their innovative technology and sustainability features. With a focus on efficiency and security, they often come equipped with advanced features that help reduce energy consumption and improve overall productivity.
What Price Ranges Should I Expect from Top Laser Printer Brands?
When considering the best laser printer brands, it’s essential to understand the price ranges you can expect.
- HP: HP is one of the leading brands in the laser printer market, offering models that typically range from $100 to $1,500. Their entry-level printers are affordable and suitable for home use, while their high-end models cater to businesses with higher volume printing needs, featuring advanced capabilities like duplex printing and wireless connectivity.
- Brother: Brother laser printers generally range from $80 to $800, making them a popular choice for both small offices and home users. They are known for their reliability and cost-effective toner options, with some models offering multifunction capabilities that include scanning and faxing.
- Canon: Canon laser printers can be found in the price range of $100 to $1,200. They are well-regarded for their print quality, especially in graphics and color documents, and their higher-end models often feature advanced features like mobile printing and extensive connectivity options for modern workplaces.
- Lexmark: Lexmark’s laser printers are priced between $150 and $1,000, focusing primarily on business solutions. They offer robust security features and are designed for high-volume printing, making them suitable for larger organizations that require efficient and secure printing solutions.
- Xerox: Xerox laser printers typically fall within the $200 to $3,000 range, targeting both small businesses and enterprise-level needs. Known for their high-performance printing capabilities and innovative features, Xerox printers often come with advanced software solutions for managing print jobs and improving workflow efficiency.
How Can I Choose the Right Laser Printer Brand for My Needs?
To choose the right laser printer brand for your needs, consider factors like reliability, print quality, support, and cost-effectiveness.
- HP: HP is renowned for its wide range of laser printers that cater to both home and office environments. They are known for their reliable performance, high print quality, and robust features such as wireless printing and mobile connectivity.
- Canon: Canon printers often excel in image quality, making them ideal for graphic-heavy documents and photos. They are also appreciated for their compact designs and user-friendly interfaces, which can be beneficial for small office spaces.
- Brother: Brother is widely recognized for its cost-effective laser printers, especially for high-volume printing. Their machines tend to have lower operating costs due to high-yield toner options, making them a popular choice for businesses looking to save on printing expenses.
- Xerox: Xerox has a strong reputation in the corporate sector, offering advanced features such as color printing and scanning capabilities. Their printers are built for durability and high performance, catering to businesses that require reliable output without frequent interruptions.
- Lexmark: Lexmark stands out with its focus on security features and enterprise solutions. Their laser printers often include advanced security options, making them a good fit for businesses that prioritize data protection in their printing processes.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About Popular Laser Printer Brands?
Customer reviews often highlight key aspects of popular laser printer brands, revealing strengths and weaknesses that can influence purchasing decisions.
- HP: Customers frequently praise HP for its reliable performance and high-quality prints, particularly in monochrome models. Many users appreciate the user-friendly interface and robust software support, though some mention concerns over the cost of replacement cartridges.
- Brother: Brother printers are often commended for their durability and efficiency, especially in office environments where high-volume printing is needed. Reviewers note that many Brother models offer lower operating costs and reliable wireless connectivity, making them a practical choice for both home and business use.
- Canon: Canon is recognized for its exceptional print quality, especially in color laser printers, which make it a favorite among graphic designers and photographers. Users have highlighted the brand’s innovative features, but some reviews point out that the initial purchase price can be higher compared to competitors.
- Lexmark: Lexmark printers are appreciated for their advanced security features and scalability, appealing to businesses that prioritize data protection. Customers note that while Lexmark offers solid performance, some models can be more complex to set up and maintain than other brands.
- Xerox: Customers often highlight Xerox for its high-quality output and advanced features, such as mobile printing and professional finishing options. However, the brand is sometimes seen as more expensive, which can deter budget-conscious buyers despite the excellent performance.