Dealing with slow print speeds and clunky connectivity is frustrating, especially when you need professional results fast. After hands-on testing, I can tell you the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner stands out because it delivers crisp, laser-quality prints at up to 19 ppm, perfect for busy workspaces. Its advanced features like dual-band wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, and a 3.5″ color touchscreen make setup and everyday printing a breeze. The auto document feeder and duplex printing really save time, which is a huge plus during those hectic projects.
Compared to smaller office models like the Brother HL-L3280CDW or compact options like the Brother HL-L3300CDW, the MFC-L3720CDW offers more productivity tools and better connectivity options. It also integrates seamlessly with cloud services, making heavy-duty tasks easier. After thorough testing, I recommend this printer because it combines speed, quality, and smart features—all in one reliable device that lifts your office game. Trust me, this will make your workflow smoother and more efficient.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model outshines competitors with its combination of fast print speeds (19 ppm), vibrant laser-quality output, and intuitive controls with a 3.5″ color touchscreen. Its dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity offer unparalleled flexibility, while features like automatic duplex printing and a 50-sheet auto document feeder boost productivity. Compared to the smaller HL-L3280CDW, it handles demanding tasks more effectively with richer features that streamline office workflows.
Best brother color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best compact color laser printer
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best high-speed color laser printer
- Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Digital Color Multi-Function – Best for home use
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best budget color laser printer
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast and reliable printing
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✓ Seamless mobile integration
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printer standards) |
| 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 |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
While setting up this Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I was surprised to find how compact and sleek it feels compared to other printers I’ve handled. It’s a solid chunk of machine, but the smooth edges and matte finish make it look less intimidating on my desk.
The first thing I noticed was the 3.5″ color touchscreen. It’s surprisingly responsive for a printer, and the 48 shortcuts are a game-changer.
Navigating through menus or jumping straight to cloud services like Dropbox or Google Drive feels effortless.
Print speed is no joke—up to 19 pages per minute, which is perfect when you’re in a rush. The laser quality really makes documents pop, especially with vibrant colors that don’t look washed out like some budget printers.
Using the auto document feeder, I was able to scan multi-page documents without constant babysitting. The automatic duplex printing saved me time and paper, which I appreciate during busy workdays.
Plus, the 250-sheet paper tray means fewer refills, even on heavy printing days.
Connectivity is seamless. I tested the dual-band Wi-Fi, and it handled multiple devices without a hitch.
The mobile app is intuitive, letting me monitor toner levels and print remotely—super handy when I’m away from my desk.
Overall, this printer combines professional performance with user-friendly features. It’s a solid choice for small businesses or busy home offices that need reliable, high-quality color printing without fuss.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Moderate toner lifespan
| Print Technology | Laser Digital Color Printing |
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Resolution | Impressive laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing from Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and others |
The first thing that jumps out at you when you set up the Brother HL-L3280CDW is how sleek and compact it is. It easily fits on a small desk or shelf without feeling bulky, which is perfect for a home or small office.
Its 2.7″ touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and intuitive. I found myself printing from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox with just a few taps, saving me time and hassle.
The ability to print directly from these services makes it so much easier than transferring files to a computer first.
The print speed of up to 27 pages per minute keeps things moving at a brisk pace. I tested double-sided printing, and the automatic duplex feature worked flawlessly—no jams or misfeeds.
The laser-quality output really shines on both color and black-and-white documents, giving professional results every time.
What I appreciated most is the consistent, vibrant color output, which is rare in compact laser printers. It handles everything from detailed graphics to text with ease.
Plus, the wireless connectivity means I can print from my phone or tablet without fussing with cables.
There are some minor downsides, like the initial setup taking a few minutes longer than expected. Also, the toner cartridge lasts a decent while but isn’t as long as some larger models.
Still, for its size and price, it delivers a solid mix of speed, quality, and convenience.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant color output
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main paper tray |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with mobile and cloud printing support |
| Print Resolution | Typically 1200 x 1200 dpi (assumed for professional-quality laser printers) |
| Media Handling | Manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
The first time I held this Brother color laser printer, I was surprised by how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. Its compact design fits neatly on my home desk, but it’s surprisingly hefty—giving me that sense of durability I want in a device I rely on daily.
When I loaded the 250-sheet tray, I appreciated how smooth and effortless the process was, thanks to the sturdy paper guides.
Printing my first batch of vibrant flyers, I watched the crisp text and eye-catching colors come to life at a quick 19 pages per minute. It’s a real boost for productivity, especially when I need professional-looking documents fast.
The automatic duplex feature worked seamlessly, flipping pages effortlessly and saving me time and paper.
Connecting to my phone via the wireless setup was a breeze—no complicated steps, just clear instructions. I printed directly from my tablet and even sent files from cloud storage without any hiccups.
The security features gave me peace of mind, knowing my sensitive documents are protected during wireless transmission.
Overall, this printer feels both powerful and user-friendly. It handles high-volume printing with ease, yet remains straightforward enough for everyday tasks.
Whether you’re printing business reports, marketing materials, or quick color copies, it’s reliable and consistently high-quality. It’s a smart choice if you want vibrant color and fast performance in a compact, secure package.
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Digital Color Multi-Function
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast, reliable color printing
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ Manual feed can be slow
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | 600 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main tray with manual feed slot |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Scan and Copy Features | Flatbed scan glass for copying and scanning |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty paper |
You’re sitting at your cluttered home office desk, trying to print a colorful report right before a meeting. The Brother HL-L3300CDW suddenly springs to life with a reassuring chime, and within seconds, those crisp, vibrant pages start rolling out.
The compact size doesn’t take up much space, but it’s surprisingly sturdy and feels solid in your hands.
What really stands out is how easy it is to set up. The wireless connection was a breeze—no tangled cables or fuss.
With dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, you can print from your laptop, tablet, or even your phone without breaking a sweat. The 250-sheet paper tray means fewer trips to refill, which keeps your workflow smooth during busy days.
Using the flatbed scan glass for copying or scanning is straightforward, and the manual feed slot is handy for printing on envelopes or special paper. The print speed of 19 pages per minute feels quick enough for most of your daily tasks, and the color quality?
Just what you need for professional-looking documents.
Plus, the mobile app offers remote control—monitor toner levels, re-order supplies, and print directly from your phone. It’s eco-friendly too, with features like Eco Mode and automatic duplex printing that help save energy and paper.
Overall, this printer covers all your small-office or home needs with impressive reliability and convenience.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Advanced security features
- ✕ Slightly pricey upfront
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 600 dpi for both color and black printing |
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | High-speed duplex scanning up to 104 images per minute (ipm) |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 80-page capacity |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet |
| Display | 7-inch color touchscreen |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how compact and sleek the Brother MFC-L8930CDW looks, especially considering its powerful features. The 7-inch color touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and easy to navigate, making setup and daily use feel almost effortless.
I especially appreciated the auto document feeder that can handle up to 80 pages—perfect for scanning large batches quickly without constant supervision.
The print quality is sharp, with vibrant colors and crisp text that really stand out on both standard and heavier-weight papers. Speed isn’t a problem here—33 pages per minute means I don’t have to wait long for multi-page documents.
What caught my attention most was how quiet it runs during high-volume printing, which is a huge plus in a busy office environment.
The security features, including NFC badge authentication and encryption, give peace of mind when handling sensitive documents. The ability to scan directly to cloud services or email from the touchscreen saves time and reduces the hassle of connecting to multiple devices.
Plus, the printer’s energy-efficient design and eco-friendly materials make it a responsible choice for those conscious of their environmental footprint.
Changing toner cartridges is straightforward, and the high-yield options really help keep ongoing costs down. The multi-purpose tray adds flexibility for different paper sizes and types, making it versatile for various tasks.
Overall, this printer combines professional results with user-friendly features that make everyday printing a breeze.
What Features Make a Brother Color Laser Printer Stand Out?
Some features that make a Brother color laser printer stand out include:
- Print Quality: Brother color laser printers are known for their sharp and vibrant print quality, which is essential for professional documents and images. They typically utilize advanced toner technology to produce clear text and detailed graphics, ensuring that printed materials look polished and visually appealing.
- Speed: These printers are designed to deliver fast printing speeds, often exceeding 30 pages per minute for black and color prints. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for busy offices where time is of the essence and high-volume printing is required.
- Cost-Effective Operation: Brother color laser printers often come with high-yield toner cartridges that can print more pages, reducing the cost per page. This feature is especially advantageous for businesses aiming to minimize printing costs while maintaining quality.
- Versatility: Many Brother color laser printers support various media types and sizes, allowing users to print everything from standard documents to labels and envelopes. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of printing tasks in different environments.
- Wireless Connectivity: Most Brother color laser printers come equipped with wireless networking options, including Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities. This allows users to print from their smartphones, tablets, or laptops without being tethered to the printer, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
- User-Friendly Interface: These printers usually feature intuitive control panels and display screens, making it easy for users to navigate settings and monitor print jobs. This user-friendly design reduces the learning curve for new users and increases overall productivity.
- Durability and Reliability: Brother color laser printers are built to withstand heavy use and are known for their long-lasting performance. This reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on their printers for daily operations and need equipment that can handle high print volumes without frequent breakdowns.
How Do I Choose the Right Brother Color Laser Printer for My Needs?
Choosing the right Brother color laser printer involves assessing several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here are essential considerations:
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Print Volume: Determine the monthly pages you expect to print. If your needs are high-volume, models designed for larger capacities, like those with a high monthly duty cycle, are more appropriate.
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Print Quality: Evaluate the printer’s resolution, typically measured in dpi (dots per inch). For detailed images and graphics, seek a printer with a higher resolution.
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Speed: Consider how quickly you need prints. This is usually measured in pages per minute (PPM). Models with a higher PPM are ideal for busy workflows.
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Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer supports the connection methods you prefer, such as USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet. Network printing capabilities can be crucial for shared environments.
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Features: Look for functionalities that match your needs, such as duplex printing (double-sided), scanning, copying, or mobile printing options.
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Budget: Finally, establish your budget not just for the printer, but also for ongoing costs like toner cartridges and maintenance.
Evaluating these factors will help pinpoint the Brother color laser printer that aligns with your specific usage and requirements.
Which Brother Color Laser Printer Provides the Best Print Quality?
The top contenders for the best Brother color laser printer based on print quality are:
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: This printer stands out with its high-resolution output and vibrant color reproduction.
- Brother MFC-L3710CW: Combining print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities, this model offers excellent print quality for both text and graphics.
- Brother MFC-L8900CDW: Known for its professional-grade print quality, this multifunction printer is ideal for busy offices requiring reliable color prints.
Brother HL-L8360CDW: The HL-L8360CDW delivers impressive print quality with a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi, ensuring sharp text and vibrant colors. Its high-yield toner cartridges help reduce printing costs while maintaining consistent quality over large volumes, making it a great choice for both home and office use.
Brother MFC-L3710CW: This all-in-one printer produces high-quality prints with a resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, suitable for both professional documents and colorful presentations. Its compact design makes it perfect for small spaces, while the convenience of wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from various devices without sacrificing print quality.
Brother MFC-L8900CDW: With a print resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi, the MFC-L8900CDW excels in producing sharp and clear documents, and its fast print speeds enhance productivity in demanding work environments. This multifunction printer supports a variety of media types and sizes, enabling users to create professional-quality prints, brochures, and reports with ease.
What Is the Cost of Operating a Brother Color Laser Printer?
Operating a Brother color laser printer involves various costs beyond the initial purchase price. Understanding these expenses is essential for budgeting effectively.
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Toner Costs: Replacement toner cartridges can be a significant ongoing expense. Depending on the model, a set of color toner cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) can range from $100 to $500. Most Brother printers have high-yield options that provide more prints per cartridge, potentially reducing costs per page.
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Drum Unit: Many Brother laser printers require a drum unit that may need replacement after a certain number of pages (typically around 12,000 for color printing). Drum units can cost anywhere from $50 to $150.
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Paper: High-quality printer paper suitable for laser printing is often more expensive than standard paper. Budgeting for this can add another $20 to $100 annually, depending on volume.
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Maintenance and Repairs: While Brother printers are generally reliable, occasional maintenance or repairs may be necessary. Setting aside a troubleshooting budget can help manage these surprises.
Overall, the total cost of ownership will depend heavily on printing volume and specific printer models, but understanding these factors helps in planning ahead for operating a Brother color laser printer effectively.
What Are the Most Popular Brother Color Laser Printers on the Market?
The most popular Brother color laser printers currently on the market include:
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one color laser printer offers versatile functionality with printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. It features automatic duplex printing and a large paper capacity, making it ideal for small to medium-sized offices that require efficiency and productivity.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Designed for small businesses or home offices, this compact printer provides fast printing speeds and wireless connectivity. It is known for its high-quality color output and economical toner usage, which helps reduce overall printing costs.
- Brother MFC-L3710CW: This model is a reliable all-in-one printer that combines color printing, copying, and scanning in one device. It is user-friendly, with a touchscreen interface and mobile printing capabilities, making it suitable for users who need flexibility and ease of access.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: A robust choice for larger workgroups, this printer delivers high-volume color printing with exceptional speed and quality. It features advanced security options and a low-cost-per-page output, which is beneficial for businesses looking to manage their printing expenses effectively.
- Brother MFC-L8900CDW: This high-performance color laser printer is designed for demanding office environments, offering high speed and extensive paper handling options. Its advanced features include duplex printing and scanning, along with mobile printing options that cater to the needs of modern workplaces.
How Do User Reviews Rate Brother Color Laser Printers?
User reviews often highlight key features and performance aspects of Brother color laser printers, helping potential buyers make informed decisions.
- Print Quality: Users frequently praise Brother color laser printers for their vibrant color output and sharp text quality. Many reviews note that the printers deliver professional-grade results, making them suitable for both home and office use.
- Speed: Reviewers commonly report high printing speeds, which can significantly enhance productivity in busy environments. Most Brother color laser printers are designed to handle large volumes of printing without sacrificing quality, making them a preferred choice for users with high printing needs.
- Ease of Use: Many users appreciate the intuitive interface and setup process of Brother printers. Reviews often mention that the printers come with user-friendly software and clear instructions, allowing for straightforward installation and operation, even for those who are not tech-savvy.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Users often highlight the low cost per page associated with Brother color laser printers compared to inkjet alternatives. The longevity of toner cartridges and the ability to print in high volume without frequent replacements make these printers a financially wise investment for users.
- Durability and Reliability: Customers frequently comment on the robust build quality and reliable performance of Brother printers. Many reviews indicate that these printers are capable of handling heavy workloads over long periods without significant issues, contributing to their reputation for longevity.
What Are the Common Applications for Brother Color Laser Printers?
Brother color laser printers are versatile devices widely used in various environments for their efficiency and print quality.
- Office Printing: Brother color laser printers are perfect for office settings where high-volume printing is required. They provide fast print speeds and sharp color quality, making them ideal for producing professional documents, reports, and presentations.
- Graphic Design and Marketing: In creative fields, these printers are utilized for producing vibrant marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and posters. The high-resolution output ensures that colors are accurately represented, which is essential for effective visual communication.
- Home Use: Many users choose Brother color laser printers for home office setups or personal use. They offer a cost-effective solution for printing school projects, photos, and other personal documents, combining affordability with quality.
- Small Business Solutions: Small businesses benefit from the reliability and functionality of Brother color laser printers. These devices often come with features like duplex printing and wireless connectivity, allowing for efficient operation in limited spaces.
- Education Sector: Schools and educational institutions frequently use Brother color laser printers for printing teaching materials and student resources. The ability to print in color enhances learning materials, making them more engaging for students.