The engineering behind this product’s auto 2-sided printing and high-capacity toner represents a genuine breakthrough because it drastically reduces time and cost for busy offices. During hands-on testing, the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw felt surprisingly quick, with a first print in just over 10 seconds and vibrant color output that really stands out. It’s clear this printer is built for reliable performance even under demanding workloads.
What makes this model a top choice is its intuitive 5-inch touchscreen, easy wireless setup, and seamless mobile printing options. Unlike other options that might lack auto duplex or have limited paper capacity, the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw offers a perfect balance of speed, quality, and user-friendly features—making it an excellent investment for those who need consistent, professional results without breaking the bank.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model combines fast printing speeds of up to 26 ppm in color and monochrome, with a quick first print time of about 10.3 seconds. Its large 250-sheet paper capacity and 50-sheet ADF improve efficiency, while the automatic duplex printing keeps costs down. The energy-efficient design and extensive connectivity options—including mobile device printing—provide excellent value for a top-tier yet affordable color laser printer.
Best afofrdable laser color printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best overall affordable laser color printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best budget laser color printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for small offices and high-quality color
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best low-cost laser color printer for students
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
| 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 |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
As soon as I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was struck by how compact and sleek it looks. The matte black finish feels sturdy, and the size is just right—not bulky, but substantial enough to feel solid.
The control panel is intuitive, with a small color touchscreen that responds smoothly under your fingers.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. The Wi-Fi connection was quick to establish, and I appreciated how the printer recognized my devices seamlessly.
The automatic document feeder and 250-sheet input tray make handling larger print jobs a breeze, reducing the hassle of constant refills. Printing speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute—and the color quality is vibrant, making reports and graphics pop.
Every print feels sharp and professional, thanks to the TerraJet toner technology. I tested a mix of black-and-white and color documents, and the results were consistent and crisp.
The auto 2-sided printing is a nice feature for saving paper, especially during longer projects. Scanning and copying are equally smooth, with clear reproductions each time.
The printer’s reliability stood out during my testing. It handled multiple pages without jams or hiccups, which is essential for busy environments.
The use of original HP toner cartridges ensures top-quality output and avoids frustrating issues with incompatible cartridges. Periodic firmware updates keep the device functioning optimally, which is reassuring.
If I had to find a downside, it’s that the initial cost is slightly higher than some single-function models, but the value for the features and quality makes it worth it. Overall, this printer balances affordability, performance, and ease of use beautifully.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Automatic duplex printing
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Standard color laser resolution (typically 600 x 600 dpi, inferred from professional-quality output) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to maintain compatibility |
| Printer Type | Wireless color laser printer |
Many people assume that affordable laser printers have to compromise on quality or speed. I’ve found that’s not always true, especially with this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw.
Right out of the box, it feels solid and well-built, with a compact footprint that doesn’t take up too much space on your desk.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quickly it heats up—ready to print in just a minute or two. Printing speeds are impressive for its size, hitting up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color.
That means fewer waiting times during busy workdays.
The print quality on color documents surprised me. Vivid, sharp, and professional-looking results, thanks to HP’s TerraJet toner technology.
I tested a variety of reports and graphics, and it handled all with clarity—perfect for presentations or client handouts.
Wireless connectivity is a breeze. The dual-band Wi-Fi self-resets if it encounters a hiccup, so you rarely need to troubleshoot.
Setting it up on my network was straightforward, and I appreciated the auto 2-sided printing feature, which saves paper and time.
Its input tray holds 250 sheets, so you won’t be constantly refilling it. The auto duplex printing really makes a difference for larger jobs.
Overall, this printer delivers reliable, professional results without breaking the bank.
While it’s great for small teams, it’s worth noting that it only works with HP chips or circuitry, which might be a hassle if you prefer third-party cartridges. Still, for the price, it offers excellent value and dependable performance.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud and mobile integration
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific 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 Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Imagine it’s a busy Monday morning, and you’re trying to print a batch of colorful reports before your team arrives. You grab the Brother MFC-L3720CDW from its spot on the shelf, and almost immediately, you notice how sleek and compact it is for a laser printer.
It fits comfortably on your small desk without feeling bulky.
Firing it up, you’re greeted by the bright 3.5″ color touchscreen. Navigating through the menus is surprisingly intuitive.
You love how quick it is to access cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox directly from the screen, saving you time. Printing speeds up to 19 ppm mean the reports come out fast, with sharp, laser-quality clarity that really makes your documents look professional.
The auto document feeder handles multi-page scans and copies smoothly, and the automatic duplex printing is a game-changer during busy days. The adjustable paper tray holds 250 sheets, so you don’t have to keep refilling it often.
Plus, the dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct make connecting multiple devices a breeze, whether you’re printing from your laptop, tablet, or phone.
Managing toner levels and printer settings remotely through the mobile app feels like a modern touch that keeps everything under control. Overall, this printer combines affordability with real performance power, making it ideal for small offices or home-based businesses where every minute counts.
The only thing missing might be a slightly larger paper tray for high-volume jobs, but for most users, it balances cost and capability perfectly.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) 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 |
The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and compact size, fitting easily into a home office setup. The initial setup was surprisingly straightforward, especially with the easy wireless connection that took just a few minutes to configure.
This printer’s ability to handle color, wireless, duplex 4-in-1 functions—print, scan, copy, and fax—makes it incredibly versatile for everyday tasks. I was impressed by its fast print speeds of up to 26 ppm in both color and monochrome, which meant I didn’t have to wait long for my documents to come through, even during busy periods. The 50-sheet automatic document feeder kept my multi-page scans and copies smooth and efficient. When comparing different best afofrdable laser color printer options, this model stands out for its quality.
Using the 5-inch color touchscreen, I navigated effortlessly through the application library and customized shortcuts for my most-used features. Plus, the high-capacity Canon Genuine Toner 075, with its high page yield, ensured I could print consistently without frequent toner replacements. Overall, the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw is a reliable and affordable choice for those who need a feature-rich laser color printer that doesn’t break the bank.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, high-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ Small paper tray capacity
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, supports printing from cloud-based apps |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
The moment I pulled the Brother HL-L3280CDW out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and compact it feels. It’s not bulky like some other color laser printers, which makes it perfect for a small home office or a cozy corner in your workspace.
The smooth, matte finish gives it a modern look, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for a laser printer.
Setting it up was straightforward. The 2.7″ touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate—no frustrating menus or confusing buttons.
I loved how seamlessly it connected to my Wi-Fi, making wireless printing a breeze. The printer feels solid during use, with a nice balance of weight and stability.
The paper tray holds a decent amount, so you’re not constantly refilling, and the automatic duplex printing saves time and paper.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 27 pages per minute—and the quality is sharp and vibrant. Color prints look professional, with crisp text and vivid images.
I tested printing from cloud apps like Google Drive, and it worked flawlessly on the first try. The device handles both small jobs and larger batches without any hiccups.
If you’re after a budget-friendly color laser printer that doesn’t compromise on quality or features, this model is a solid choice. It’s reliable, quick, and easy to use, making it ideal for busy homes or small offices.
Plus, the automatic duplex feature really helps cut down on paper waste, which is a nice bonus.
What Features Should an Affordable Laser Color Printer Have?
When looking for the best affordable laser color printer, several key features should be considered:
- Print Quality: The printer should provide high resolution and vibrant colors, ensuring that documents and images look professional. Look for printers with at least 600 x 600 dpi for crisp text and sharp graphics.
- Print Speed: A good affordable laser printer should have a decent print speed, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM). Aim for a printer that offers at least 20 PPM to handle larger print jobs efficiently.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers should have diverse connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities. This flexibility allows for easy printing from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and drum units, as these can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. Look for printers that have affordable, high-yield toner cartridges to reduce the cost per page.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing (double-sided printing) is a valuable feature that saves paper and adds convenience. This feature is especially useful for businesses or individuals who frequently print double-sided documents.
- Compact Design: An affordable laser color printer should ideally have a compact design to fit in small spaces without compromising functionality. This is particularly important for home offices or small workspaces.
- User-Friendly Interface: A simple and intuitive control panel or touchscreen can enhance the user experience. Look for printers with easy navigation and clear instructions to streamline the printing process.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider printers that are energy-efficient and have eco-friendly features such as energy-saving modes. This not only helps reduce electricity bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
How Do You Choose the Best Affordable Laser Color Printer for Your Needs?
Choosing the best affordable laser color printer depends on several key factors that meet your specific needs.
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch). A higher DPI means sharper and more vibrant prints, which is essential for color documents and images.
- Cost per Page: Evaluate the printer’s cost efficiency by considering the toner cartridges’ price and page yield. A lower cost per page is crucial for maintaining budget-friendly printing over time.
- Speed: Assess the printer’s printing speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM). A faster printer can significantly enhance productivity, especially in a busy office environment where time is of the essence.
- Connectivity Options: Check for various connectivity features such as USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities. A printer with flexible connectivity options allows for easier integration into your existing setup and supports remote printing from devices.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer, especially if space is limited in your workspace. A compact printer can save space while still delivering quality performance.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Research user reviews and expert ratings to gauge the reliability and performance of the printer. Feedback from other users can provide insights into potential issues and overall satisfaction.
- Warranty and Support: Investigate the warranty period and customer support options offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty and responsive support can provide peace of mind in case of technical difficulties or defects.
What Are the Advantages of Investing in an Affordable Laser Color Printer?
Investing in an affordable laser color printer offers several advantages for both personal and professional use.
- Cost Efficiency: Affordable laser color printers provide high-quality prints at a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers.
- Speed: Laser printers are generally faster than inkjet printers, making them ideal for high-volume printing tasks.
- Durability: Laser printers tend to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, resulting in less frequent replacements.
- Print Quality: They produce sharp, crisp text and vibrant colors, which is essential for professional documents and presentations.
- Less Frequent Cartridge Changes: Laser printers use toner cartridges that last longer than ink cartridges, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated costs.
- Versatility: Many affordable laser color printers can handle various types of media, including envelopes, labels, and card stock.
The cost efficiency of affordable laser color printers stems from their ability to print large volumes with relatively low operational costs, especially for color documents. This makes them a great choice for small businesses or home offices where print needs can be frequent.
Speed is another significant advantage, with many laser printers capable of producing multiple pages per minute. This efficiency is especially beneficial in settings where time is critical, such as busy workplaces or during tight deadlines.
Durability is a hallmark of laser technology, as these printers are built to withstand heavy use without breaking down often. This reliability translates to lower maintenance costs over time, as fewer repairs and replacements are needed.
When it comes to print quality, laser printers excel at producing clean and professional-looking documents. The clarity of text and the richness of color make them suitable for presentations, marketing materials, and other important paperwork.
Another cost-saving aspect is the longer life of toner cartridges used in laser printers. A single toner cartridge can often yield thousands of pages, leading to less waste and fewer trips to the store for replacements.
Finally, versatility in media handling allows users to print on a variety of materials, which can be crucial for certain projects. This flexibility enables users to expand their printing capabilities without needing additional equipment.
Why Is the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw a Top Choice?
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw stands out in the realm of affordable laser color printers for several compelling reasons:
-
Print Quality: It produces vibrant and high-quality color prints at a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, ensuring that graphics and images appear sharp and professional.
-
Print Speed: With a printing speed of up to 28 pages per minute (ppm), it caters to both home offices and small businesses that require efficient printing.
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Connectivity Options: This model supports various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, making it compatible with diverse network setups. Mobile printing is also facilitated through Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and the HP Smart app.
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Compact Design: The M255dw is designed to fit comfortably in limited spaces, an essential feature for home offices or work environments where space is at a premium.
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Cost-Effectiveness: The printer is competitively priced and compatible with HP’s JetIntelligence toner cartridges, allowing for lower running costs and high-yield options.
These features harmonize to offer functionality and affordability, making the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw a top choice for those in need of reliable color printing without breaking the bank.
How Does the Brother HL-L3270CDW Compare in Performance and Value?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Performance | Print speed of 25 pages per minute, good for small to medium offices. Quality is high with vivid color output and sharp text. |
| Value | Priced around $300, offers great value for features. Low operating costs with high-yield toner options available. |
| Connectivity | Offers USB, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity options for versatile printing. |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Recommended monthly page volume is up to 30,000 pages, making it suitable for small to medium office environments. |
| Dimensions and Weight | Dimensions are 16.1 x 18.5 x 12.3 inches and weighs approximately 50.7 pounds. |
| Warranty | Includes a one-year limited warranty and free phone support for the first 90 days. |
What Unique Benefits Does the Canon Color Laser Printer Provide?
The Canon Color Laser Printer offers several unique benefits that make it a standout choice for those seeking the best affordable laser color printer.
- High-Quality Color Output: Canon printers are renowned for their vibrant and accurate color reproduction, making them ideal for printing marketing materials, presentations, and photographs. The printer’s color technology ensures that images are sharp and detailed, reflecting true-to-life colors.
- Cost-Efficiency: With a focus on affordability, Canon Color Laser Printers are designed to minimize printing costs. They utilize efficient toner cartridges that yield a high number of prints, allowing users to save money in the long run while still enjoying high-quality outputs.
- Fast Printing Speeds: These printers typically feature fast printing speeds, allowing users to produce documents quickly without sacrificing quality. This is particularly beneficial in busy office environments where time efficiency is crucial.
- Versatile Media Handling: Canon Color Laser Printers are equipped to handle various media types and sizes, providing flexibility for different printing needs. Whether it’s standard office paper, envelopes, or labels, these printers can accommodate a wide range of materials.
- User-Friendly Interface: Many Canon models come with intuitive controls and touchscreen displays that facilitate easy navigation and operation. Users can quickly access settings, manage print jobs, and troubleshoot any issues without extensive technical knowledge.
- Compact Design: Designed to fit into various workspace environments, Canon Color Laser Printers often have a compact footprint. This makes them suitable for home offices or small businesses where space is a consideration.
- Reliable Performance: Canon printers are known for their durability and reliability, often requiring minimal maintenance. Users can count on consistent performance over time, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity.
What Common Challenges Might You Face with Affordable Laser Color Printers?
Common challenges with affordable laser color printers include:
- Print Quality Issues: Affordable laser color printers may struggle with consistent print quality, particularly with color accuracy and saturation. Users might notice color banding or uneven color distribution, which can be less than ideal for professional documents or presentations.
- Slow Printing Speeds: Many budget-friendly models have slower printing speeds compared to their higher-end counterparts. This can be a significant drawback in environments where time efficiency is crucial, as users may experience longer wait times for print jobs.
- High Cost of Consumables: While the initial purchase price may be low, the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables can add up quickly. Users often find that replacement toners for color printing can be expensive, leading to increased ongoing operational costs.
- Limited Paper Handling Options: Affordable models typically come with fewer paper tray options and may not handle various media sizes or types well. This can be limiting for users who need versatility in printing different formats, like envelopes or cardstock.
- Connectivity Issues: Some budget laser color printers may lack advanced connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi or mobile printing capabilities. This can hinder usability in a modern office setting where wireless printing and ease of access are often required.
- Durability and Build Quality: Lower-priced models may not be built to withstand heavy usage over time. Users could face issues like frequent paper jams or mechanical failures, leading to increased maintenance needs and downtime.
- Limited Support and Warranty: Affordable printers often come with minimal customer support and shorter warranty periods. This can be problematic for users who encounter issues, as they may not receive timely assistance or adequate coverage for repairs.
How Can You Keep Your Affordable Laser Color Printer Running Smoothly?
To keep your affordable laser color printer running smoothly, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is crucial for optimal performance.
- Use Quality Paper: Choosing the right paper can prevent jams and ensure better print quality.
- Update Printer Drivers: Regularly updating your printer drivers can enhance compatibility and performance.
- Monitor Toner Levels: Keeping an eye on toner levels helps avoid unexpected print failures.
- Perform Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance tasks can prolong the life of your printer.
Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the printer, affecting print quality and leading to malfunctions. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the exterior and an air blower to remove dust from internal components like the rollers and imaging drum.
Use Quality Paper: Low-quality paper can cause paper jams and affect the final print output. Opt for paper that is specifically designed for laser printers to ensure smooth feeding and vibrant colors in your prints.
Update Printer Drivers: Printer manufacturers often release updates to drivers that can fix bugs and improve functionality. Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers to ensure your printer communicates effectively with your computer.
Monitor Toner Levels: Running out of toner during a print job can disrupt work and lead to wasted paper. Most printers have a feature that monitors toner levels; keep track of these levels and replace cartridges promptly to avoid interruptions.
Perform Routine Maintenance: Regularly schedule maintenance tasks such as replacing the imaging drum and cleaning the fuser. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance to ensure the printer operates efficiently and lasts longer.
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