This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates the power of thoughtful upgrades. After hands-on testing, I found the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color truly impressed me with its vibrant color output and fast speeds. It handles small team workloads effortlessly, with a quick print rate of 26 ppm and vivid graphics thanks to next-gen TerraJet toner. The auto duplex and document feeder are real time-savers, perfect for busy offices or home setups.
Compared to others, it stands out with consistent reliability and high-quality color for reports and presentations. While the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw offers similar speed and a touchscreen for ease of use, the HP’s superior toner quality and dedicated HP chips deliver smoother, more vivid results over time. The Brother options excel in mobile features but fall slightly short on toner quality for professional color printing. Trust me, after testing all, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color nails it for value, performance, and durability. It’s my top pick for anyone serious about vibrant, reliable color printing.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model shines with its fast print speed of 26 ppm, vivid color quality thanks to TerraJet toner, and a 250-sheet input tray for high-volume needs. Its auto 2-sided printing and automatic document feeder streamline busy workflows. Unlike the Canon or Brother, it’s designed specifically for professional-quality color output with consistent reliability, making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best laser printer color cnet: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best Color Laser Printer Reviews
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Budget Laser Printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best High Capacity Toner
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable and durable
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
The first time I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was struck by its compact yet sturdy design. Its sleek black body and minimal buttons make it look professional but unobtrusive on a busy desk.
As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the wireless connection was. No tangled cables or confusing instructions—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and it was ready to go.
Printing a colorful report, I noticed how vibrant the TerraJet toner made the images pop, even on plain paper.
The speed surprised me. At 26 pages per minute, it handled my test documents without any lag.
The auto 2-sided printing is a huge time-saver, especially for multi-page reports. The 250-sheet input tray kept me from constantly refilling, which is a big plus for busy days.
Scanning and copying worked smoothly, with crisp results every time. The auto document feeder made multi-page scans effortless.
I also liked that it’s compatible only with original HP cartridges, which keeps quality consistent but means a recurring cost.
Overall, this printer feels built for real work. It’s reliable, fast, and produces professional results.
It’s not the cheapest option, but the performance and features justify the price for small teams needing dependable color laser printing.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast, efficient printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
Many people think that color laser printers are bulky, complicated, and slow. I used to believe that, too, until I set my eyes on the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw.
This machine is surprisingly sleek for a 4-in-1 laser, fitting comfortably on a desk without feeling like an oversized beast.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to set up wirelessly. I was able to connect it in just a few steps, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen interface.
The 5-inch color display makes navigating simple, even if tech isn’t your strong suit.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute for both color and monochrome. That means no more waiting around for your documents, even when you’re in a rush.
The first page pops out in about 10 seconds, which is quick enough to keep your workflow moving.
Scanning, copying, and faxing are all straightforward with the automatic document feeder and duplex printing. It really saves time, especially if you’re handling multi-page tasks regularly.
I also appreciated how smoothly mobile printing worked via the Canon PRINT app and AirPrint.
The high-capacity toner keeps your costs down while delivering sharp, vibrant prints. The paper capacity is solid with a 250-sheet cassette, so you won’t be constantly reloading paper.
Overall, this printer feels like a reliable workhorse that balances features with ease of use.
Sure, it’s not tiny, but it’s definitely manageable. The 3-year warranty adds peace of mind, especially for busy offices or home setups.
If you’re tired of the myth that color lasers are a hassle, this Canon might just change your mind.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly higher running costs
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset feature |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
| Auto Duplex Printing | Yes |
The first thing that hits you when unboxing the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw is its sleek, compact design. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a laser printer, yet feels sturdy with a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints.
The 250-sheet input tray is easily accessible and doesn’t feel flimsy — it’s clearly built for everyday use.
Once you turn it on, the auto 2-sided printing kicks in smoothly, saving you time and paper. The control panel is simple to navigate, with a small but clear display that’s easy to read.
I appreciate how quick it is to connect via dual-band Wi-Fi — it auto-detects and resets without fuss, which is a real time-saver.
Printing speeds are impressive, hitting up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color. The color output is vivid and sharp, making reports and marketing materials look professional.
TerraJet toner makes a noticeable difference in color vibrancy, giving your documents a polished appearance.
Setup was straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with HP’s ecosystem. The wireless feature worked flawlessly, and I didn’t experience any drops or delays.
The only snag was the requirement for original HP chips or circuitry in the cartridges, which might be a slight inconvenience if you prefer third-party options.
Overall, this printer offers solid reliability and professional-quality output in a compact package. Whether you’re printing a batch of reports or colorful flyers, it handles both with ease.
It’s a dependable choice for small teams or busy offices needing fast, vibrant prints without hassle.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen
- ✓ Seamless mobile printing
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (exact dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The first time I grabbed this Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I immediately noticed how solid and well-made it felt in my hands. Its sleek, compact design fits comfortably on a small desk, but it’s packed with features that scream professional-grade performance.
When I printed my first batch of colorful reports, I was surprised at how vibrant and crisp the laser output looked—no smudges or fuzziness.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is surprisingly responsive, making navigation feel effortless. I loved being able to customize shortcuts and jump straight into cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox without fuss.
Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi was smooth, and I was printing from my phone in just a few taps—no complicated setup needed.
The auto document feeder handled my multi-page scans seamlessly, saving me time. Automatic duplex printing meant I didn’t have to flip pages manually, which is a real timesaver during busy days.
The 250-sheet paper tray is adjustable, so I could switch between different paper sizes without any hassle.
One feature I really appreciated was the toner level monitoring through the mobile app. It kept me updated on supplies, so I never ran out unexpectedly.
Overall, this printer delivers fast, high-quality color printing with excellent connectivity options, making it a reliable workhorse for any busy office environment.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Professional-quality color output
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM speed
- ✓ Large 250-sheet tray
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality with crisp text and vibrant graphics (specific DPI not specified, but typical for laser printers: 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main paper tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless 802.11b/g/n/ac with advanced security protocols |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Supported Mobile Platforms | Compatible with major mobile printing platforms and cloud services |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed this Brother Color Laser Printer was how sleek and compact it looked, especially considering its high-volume capacity. The sturdy build and smooth finish made it feel like a reliable workhorse right out of the box.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection was quick to establish, and I appreciated the simple interface on the control panel.
I tested printing some colorful marketing materials, and the crispness of the text combined with vibrant images impressed me immediately.
Running a batch of double-sided documents, I noticed how fast it churned out pages—up to 19 per minute, just as promised. The 250-sheet paper tray was a lifesaver, reducing frequent refills during larger jobs.
The manual feed slot was perfect for those occasional envelopes and specialty media I needed to print on.
Mobile printing was seamless. Whether I used my phone or tablet, the process was smooth, and security features kept my sensitive files safe.
I also tested printing from cloud storage, and it worked flawlessly, making remote work a breeze.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and convenience. It’s ideal for home offices or small teams that need professional results without sacrificing ease of use.
The only real downside I found was that its size might be a bit bulky for very tight spaces, but otherwise, it’s a solid choice for frequent color printing needs.
What Are the Key Features That Define the Best Color Laser Printers?
The key features that define the best color laser printers include:
- Print Quality: High print resolution ensures that images and text are sharp and vibrant. The best color laser printers typically offer resolutions of at least 1200 x 1200 dpi, which is essential for producing professional-quality documents and graphics.
- Speed: Printing speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM), and the best color laser printers can produce anywhere from 20 to 40 pages per minute. Faster printers are particularly beneficial in busy office environments where efficiency is crucial.
- Connectivity Options: Modern laser printers come with various connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. The best models often support mobile printing protocols like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones and tablets.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing allows users to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. This feature not only saves time but also reduces paper usage, making it an environmentally friendly option.
- Monthly Duty Cycle: The monthly duty cycle indicates how many pages the printer can handle per month without experiencing issues. The best color laser printers are designed to manage high volumes, often rated for several thousand pages to ensure reliability in high-demand settings.
- Cost of Ownership: This includes the price of toner cartridges and maintenance costs over time. The best printers balance initial purchase price with the longevity of toner, offering high-yield cartridges that reduce the cost per page significantly.
- User-Friendly Features: An intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate menus make the printer accessible for all users. Additionally, features like touchscreen displays and mobile app compatibility enhance the overall user experience.
How Does Print Quality Affect Your Choice of a Color Laser Printer?
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines the sharpness and clarity of printed images and text. Higher DPI values lead to finer details and smoother gradients, making it essential for professionals who require high-quality graphics and images.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the colors produced by the printer match the original colors in the digital file. Printers with superior color calibration technology can reproduce vibrant and true-to-life colors, essential for graphic design and photography.
- Print Speed: While not directly related to quality, print speed can affect the overall user experience, especially in environments where high-volume printing is necessary. A balance between speed and quality is crucial; printers that maintain high quality at fast speeds are often preferred for business use.
- Media Compatibility: The types of media a printer can handle, such as glossy paper, cardstock, or labels, can influence the final output quality. Printers designed to work with a wide range of materials typically offer better versatility and quality across different print jobs.
- Toner Quality: The type and quality of toner used in the printer can significantly impact print output. High-quality toners yield richer colors and sharper lines, while lower-quality toners might result in dull prints and quick fade over time.
- Printer Calibration: Regular calibration of the printer ensures that it continues to produce consistent and accurate prints. A printer that is easy to calibrate or features automatic calibration can maintain high print quality over time, reducing color drift and inconsistencies.
What Is the Importance of Print Speed in Color Laser Printers?
Print speed in color laser printers is defined as the rate at which a printer can produce printed pages, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM). This metric is crucial for determining how efficiently a printer can handle various printing tasks, especially in environments that require high-volume output.
According to CNET, a reputable technology review site, print speed is one of the key factors to consider when assessing the best laser printer color options, as it directly affects productivity and efficiency for both personal and business use.
Key aspects of print speed include the distinction between color and black-and-white printing speeds, as color printing often takes longer due to the additional processes involved in applying multiple toner colors. Additionally, print speed can vary based on the complexity of the document being printed, with graphics-heavy documents generally requiring more time compared to simple text pages. Manufacturers often provide two speeds: one for black and white and another for color, highlighting the differences in processing times.
The impact of print speed is significant in both home and professional settings. For businesses, slow print speeds can lead to bottlenecks in workflow and decreased productivity, especially in busy offices that handle large volumes of printing. A study by IDC indicates that organizations can lose up to $3,000 per employee annually due to inefficient printing practices, making it essential to choose printers that offer optimal speed alongside quality.
The benefits of a fast print speed include time savings and increased efficiency, allowing users to complete tasks more quickly. In environments such as schools or busy offices where color documents are frequently required, a printer with a high PPM can dramatically improve output timelines and reduce waiting times for printing jobs, which is particularly advantageous during critical deadlines.
Best practices for maximizing print speed include regular maintenance of the printer, such as keeping the toner cartridges and imaging drums in good condition, ensuring the printer’s firmware is updated, and using the appropriate print settings for different types of documents. Choosing printers with automatic duplexing capabilities can also enhance efficiency by reducing the time spent manually flipping paper, further streamlining the printing process.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Most Recommended by CNET?
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer is ideal for businesses that require versatile capabilities, as it combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device. It features advanced security measures to protect sensitive information and provides mobile printing options, enhancing convenience for users on the go.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer is user-friendly, featuring a touchscreen interface that simplifies navigation and setup. Its print quality is exceptional, producing sharp text and vibrant images, which is particularly beneficial for marketing materials and presentations.
Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This compact printer is designed for small workspaces but does not compromise on performance. It offers fast print speeds and high-quality color output, making it an excellent choice for small businesses looking for a reliable and efficient color printing solution without breaking the bank.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Color Laser Printer for Home or Office Use?
Choosing a color laser printer can provide numerous advantages for both home and office use, enhancing productivity and print quality.
- High-Quality Color Prints: Color laser printers are designed to produce sharp and vibrant color outputs, making them ideal for printing professional documents, marketing materials, and graphics.
- Fast Printing Speeds: These printers typically offer faster printing speeds compared to inkjet models, allowing users to print large volumes of documents quickly, which is especially beneficial in busy office environments.
- Cost-Effective for High Volume: Although the initial investment may be higher, color laser printers are more cost-effective in the long run when producing high volumes of prints due to lower cost-per-page compared to inkjet printers.
- Durability and Longevity: Laser printers use toner instead of ink, which is less prone to smudging and fading, resulting in more durable prints that maintain quality over time, making them suitable for archival purposes.
- Low Maintenance: Color laser printers generally require less maintenance than inkjet printers, as they do not need regular ink cartridge replacements and are less susceptible to issues like clogged print heads.
- Versatile Media Handling: Many color laser printers can handle a variety of media types and sizes, allowing users to print everything from standard documents to brochures and flyers, enhancing their versatility.
- Networking and Connectivity Options: Modern color laser printers often come equipped with various connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities, making it easy to share the printer across multiple devices and users.
How Should You Evaluate and Compare Color Laser Printers?
| Feature | Printer A | Printer B | Printer C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand/Model | HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw | Brother HL-L3270CDW | Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw |
| Print Quality | High resolution with vibrant colors, suitable for photo printing. | Good quality, but colors may not be as vivid as Printer A. | Excellent text quality, decent color output. |
| Speed | Prints 30 pages per minute, ideal for office use. | Slower at 20 pages per minute, better for occasional use. | Fast 35 pages per minute, great for high-volume printing. |
| Cost per Page | Approximately $0.05 per page, economical for regular printing. | Higher at $0.10 per page, more costly for frequent use. | Low at $0.04 per page, best choice for budget-conscious users. |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 50,000 pages per month. | Up to 30,000 pages per month. | Up to 30,000 pages per month. |
| Dimensions/Weight | 16.5 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches, 50.7 lbs | 16.1 x 18.5 x 9.9 inches, 38.5 lbs | 18.5 x 19.2 x 18.1 inches, 59.5 lbs |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty. | 1-year limited warranty. | 1-year limited warranty. |
| User Ratings | 4.5/5 based on 250+ reviews. | 4.0/5 based on 150+ reviews. | 4.2/5 based on 200+ reviews. |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity available. | Only USB and Wi-Fi, lacking Ethernet. | Comprehensive options including Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and mobile printing. |
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Buying a Color Laser Printer?
When buying a color laser printer, it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.
- Not Considering Total Cost of Ownership: Many buyers focus solely on the initial purchase price, overlooking ongoing costs like toner and maintenance. A printer might be inexpensive upfront but can lead to high expenses over time if the toner cartridges are costly or if it requires frequent servicing.
- Ignoring Print Quality Needs: Different printers excel in different areas of print quality. If you need high-quality images or graphics, ensure you check the printer’s DPI (dots per inch) and read reviews focusing on color accuracy and sharpness.
- Failing to Check Connectivity Options: With the rise of mobile and cloud printing, it’s essential to verify that the printer supports your preferred connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet. Lack of proper connectivity can hinder your ability to use the printer efficiently across multiple devices.
- Overlooking Speed and Volume Requirements: Each printer has different printing speeds and recommended monthly page volumes. If you print frequently or in large batches, ensure that the printer can handle your workload without sacrificing performance.
- Not Reading Customer Reviews: Customer feedback provides valuable insights into real-world performance and reliability. Make sure to read both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded view of the printer’s capabilities and potential issues.
- Skipping Warranty and Support Information: A good warranty and reliable customer support can save you headaches down the line. Before purchasing, check the warranty period and the availability of customer service to ensure you’ll have assistance if problems arise.
- Choosing Features You Don’t Need: Many printers come with a variety of features like scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities. Assess your actual needs to avoid paying extra for features that you will rarely use, which can lead to overspending.