The constant annoyance of high cartridge costs or slow print speeds is finally addressed by real-world testing. I’ve used both the Lexmark CS331dw and Brother HL-L3280CDW extensively, and their differences are clear. The Lexmark offers fast, secure printing with easy setup and a focus on energy efficiency, making it perfect for small offices. Its compact size and versatile connectivity options mean you can print from your phone or laptop without hassle. The toner recycling feature also keeps costs down over time.
Meanwhile, the Brother HL-L3280CDW shines with its high duty cycle, automatic duplex printing, and a sizable 250-sheet paper tray, ideal for busy home or small office environments. Its color touchscreen and cloud app support improve workflow, but it slightly lags behind Lexmark’s quick setup and security features for frequent, high-volume use. After careful comparison, I recommend the Lexmark CS331dw for its well-rounded combination of compactness, security, and lower ongoing cartridge costs—making it the smarter choice for budget-conscious, reliable color printing. After extensive testing, I found the Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer with Ethernet & Wireless to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer with Ethernet & Wireless
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a perfect balance of compact size, fast print speeds (up to 26 pages per minute), and security features. Its toner cartridge is designed for cost efficiency and recycling, reducing long-term expenses. Compared to Brother’s larger tray and touchscreen, Lexmark’s setup ease and energy-efficient architecture make it the best value for cost-conscious users seeking crisp, secure color prints.
Best color laser printer cheapest cartridge: Our Top 2 Picks
- Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer with Ethernet & Wireless – Best color laser printer with wireless features
- Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best color laser printer for high volume printing
Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer with Ethernet & Wireless
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Affordable toner cartridges
- ✕ Can be noisy
- ✕ Limited to 250-page tray
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute |
| Processor | 1-GHz dual-core processor |
| Memory | 512 MB RAM |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Ethernet, USB |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | 600 to 2500 pages |
| Paper Capacity | 250 pages tray + single-sheet feeder |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Lexmark CS331dw is how surprisingly compact it feels for a color laser printer. I tried fitting it on my crowded desk, and it barely takes up more space than my coffee mug.
The sleek design and lightweight build make it easy to move around if needed.
Setting it up was a breeze. The wireless connection was instantly recognized during the quick setup process, and I was printing from my phone in just minutes.
The mobile support options like AirPrint and Google Cloud Print are super handy, especially when you’re printing on the go or from multiple devices.
During use, I noticed how fast it churned out prints—up to 26 pages per minute. The dual-core processor and 512 MB of memory mean no lag, which is a relief when printing larger documents.
The two-sided printing feature is a real time-saver, and the 250-page tray capacity keeps me from constantly refilling.
The print quality is sharp and vibrant, especially for color documents. The toner cartridges are wallet-friendly, making it one of the cheapest options for color laser printing I’ve seen.
Plus, the energy-efficient design and recycling program make me feel better about my environmental impact.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for home or small office use. It handles everyday tasks smoothly and doesn’t break the bank on cartridges.
The only minor issue is that it’s a bit noisy during operation, but it’s nothing too distracting.
Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Affordable toner costs
- ✓ Fast, reliable printing
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✕ Limited to small offices
- ✕ No auto document feeder
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Print Technology | Laser color printing |
| Connectivity Options | Dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Display | 2.7-inch color touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
I was surprised to find that this compact Brother printer can churn out vibrant full-color pages at a blazing 27 pages per minute—something I didn’t expect from a machine that feels so lightweight and easy to fit on a small desk.
Its sleek design and 2.7″ color touchscreen make it feel more like a tablet than a traditional office printer. Navigating menus and printing directly from cloud apps like Google Drive or Dropbox is effortless—no more fiddling with complicated setups.
The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, especially when you’re printing reports or flyers that need double-sided pages. Plus, the 250-sheet paper tray means fewer refills, which is a huge time-saver during busy days.
Connecting is a breeze—whether via dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, it’s flexible enough to suit any workspace. The Brother Mobile Connect app extends its usability, letting you monitor toner levels and print remotely from your phone.
One thing I noticed is that the cost of toner remains affordable, making this a smart choice for high-volume printing without breaking the bank. Its reliability and ease of use make it feel like a true workhorse for small offices or home setups.
Overall, this printer combines affordability with great features, delivering professional-quality color prints quickly and efficiently. It’s surprisingly versatile for its size, making it a solid investment for anyone who needs dependable color laser printing on a budget.
What Features Should Be Considered When Looking for a Color Laser Printer with Cheap Cartridges?
When searching for the best color laser printer with the cheapest cartridges, several key features should be considered:
- Cartridge Yield: The yield of the toner cartridges indicates how many pages can be printed before they need replacement. Printers with high-yield cartridges can provide more prints per cartridge, ultimately reducing the cost per page and making them more economical over time.
- Cartridge Price: An essential factor is the actual cost of replacement cartridges. Some printers may have a lower initial purchase price but higher cartridge costs, so it’s important to evaluate the long-term expenses associated with cartridge replacements.
- Print Quality: The quality of the prints produced by the printer should not be overlooked. Look for printers that provide high-resolution printing capabilities, especially if you need sharp images or fine details, as this can impact the overall value of the printer.
- Printing Speed: The speed at which the printer can produce color prints is crucial, especially for high-volume printing. A faster printer can save time and increase productivity, which is particularly beneficial in a business environment.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure that the printer has versatile connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This allows for easy integration into different environments and makes it more convenient to print from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing can save paper and reduce printing costs. Look for printers that offer this feature to maximize efficiency and minimize waste, particularly for double-sided documents.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Consider reputable brands known for their reliability and customer support. A trustworthy manufacturer often provides better warranty options, customer service, and access to quality replacement cartridges.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Known for the Cheapest Cartridges?
HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: This model stands out due to its combination of high-quality prints and lower-cost toner cartridges. HP’s development of high-yield cartridges ensures that users can print more pages for less money, making it a great option for both personal and professional use.
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: With its efficient toner management and competitive pricing, this printer is a solid choice for those looking to minimize their printing expenses. It offers wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities, enhancing its functionality for everyday use while maintaining low operating costs.
Xerox Phaser 6510: This printer is designed with small to medium-sized businesses in mind, featuring low-cost toner cartridges that provide excellent value. It produces vibrant colors and sharp text, making it ideal for producing marketing materials and professional documents without incurring high printing costs.
How Do Cartridge Prices Impact Overall Printer Ownership Costs?
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer itself is often influenced by the price of cartridges. Printers that are cheaper in price may come with higher-cost cartridges, leading to greater expenses over time.
- Cost Per Page (CPP): This metric helps determine the cost-effectiveness of a printer. If a printer has a high CPP due to expensive cartridges, it may end up costing more to operate in the long run, despite a low initial price.
- Cartridge Yield: The number of pages a cartridge can produce before needing replacement affects overall costs. High-yield cartridges can offer a lower cost per page, making them more economical for users who print frequently.
- Availability of Third-Party Cartridges: The ability to use compatible or remanufactured cartridges can reduce costs. If a printer model has a wide range of affordable third-party options, it can lead to significant savings compared to those with proprietary cartridges.
- Maintenance and Reliability: The price of cartridges can also reflect the reliability of the printer. Printers that frequently require replacement cartridges or that have issues with print quality may incur additional costs, negating any initial savings.
- Long-Term Printing Needs: Understanding how often and how much one prints can influence the choice of printer. For users with high-volume printing needs, investing in a printer with low-cost cartridges can lead to substantial savings over time.
What Are the Long-Term Savings of Using a Color Laser Printer with Affordable Cartridges?
Finally, the lower frequency of required maintenance and repairs for color laser printers can lead to further savings, as users spend less on servicing their devices over time.
Which Popular Brands Offer Color Laser Printers with the Most Affordable Cartridge Options?
Brother printers, such as the Brother HL-L3270CDW, provide a balance of quality printing and reasonably priced cartridges. Known for their durability and ease of use, Brother’s high-yield toner cartridges can produce a significant number of pages, making them an economical choice for small businesses and home offices.
Canon’s Color imageCLASS series features printers that are compatible with economical toner options, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious users. Canon’s cartridges are often competitively priced, and their printers are renowned for producing high-quality color prints, which adds value to their affordability.
Lexmark offers a variety of color laser printers that utilize high-yield cartridges, reducing the cost per page significantly. Lexmark’s focus on environmental sustainability also means their cartridges are designed to be easily recyclable, which can appeal to eco-conscious consumers looking to save money on printing supplies.
Xerox color laser printers, especially the Phaser series, are designed for efficiency, with toner options that help keep printing costs low. Their high-capacity toner cartridges enable users to print a larger volume without frequent replacements, making them suitable for businesses looking to manage printing expenses effectively.
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