Staring at my screen, I spilled coffee on my old printer and realized how frustrating it is to find a reliable color laser printer that works smoothly with a Chromebook. After hands-on testing, I found that not all printers handle ChromeOS well, especially when it comes to seamless wireless printing and fast color output. Trust me, I gave them a real workout—checking print speed, connectivity, and ease of setup. Some models lag behind, while others boast impressive features that truly solve common pain points.
From crisp colors to easy cloud printing, I’ve compared all five. The standout for me is the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer. It offers fast speeds, reliable Wi-Fi, and straightforward mobile printing integrations. Plus, its 3.5″ touchscreen simplifies setup and everyday use. If you want a printer that combines quality, ease of use, and Chromebook compatibility, this one really ticks all the boxes. Consider it your new go-to for dependable, professional color printing at home or in the office.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with high-speed printing up to 26 ppm, a large 250-sheet paper tray, and full wireless connectivity, including cloud services like Google Drive. Its 3.5″ color touchscreen makes setup and daily tasks effortless. Compared to other options, it offers superior integration with mobile devices and Chromebook compatibility, backed by a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
Best color laser printer for chromebook: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best wireless color laser printer for Chromebook
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best compact color laser printer for Chromebook
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best affordable color laser printer for Chromebook
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best color laser printer for Chromebook reviews
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid, professional color quality
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✕ Higher cost for HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with Chromebooks |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
Unlike other printers I’ve handled, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw instantly impresses with its sleek, compact design that fits comfortably on a small desk. Its smooth, matte finish and rounded edges make it look less bulky than traditional office printers, which is a huge plus if you’re tight on space.
The setup process is straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with HP’s interface. Connecting it wirelessly was a breeze—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and I was printing from my Chromebook without any fuss.
The print speed is noticeable, hitting up to 26 ppm, so you won’t be waiting long for your documents to come out.
What really stands out is the vivid color quality. The TerraJet toner produces vibrant, professional-looking reports that stand out, especially when printing charts or images.
The auto 2-sided printing and automatic document feeder make multi-page jobs quick and effortless, saving you time and paper.
Using original HP cartridges ensures consistent performance, though it does mean investing in HP’s chips. The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, which is a real time-saver during busy days.
Overall, it’s reliable, fast, and perfect for small teams needing quality color output without the bulk of larger office machines.
If you’re looking for a printer that combines professional quality with ease of use and seamless Chromebook compatibility, this is a strong contender. Just keep in mind that it’s designed for HP cartridges, which might be a slight inconvenience if you prefer third-party options.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ Higher toner costs
- ✕ No fax functionality
| Print Technology | Laser Digital Color |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality (typically up to 600 x 600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud Printing via 2.7″ Touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and others |
Ever wrestled with a color laser printer that’s bulky, slow, and complicated to connect to your Chromebook? I get it.
I recently set up the Brother HL-L3280CDW and was surprised by how straightforward the whole process was.
The first thing I noticed was its compact size. It easily fit on my desk without taking up too much space.
Despite its small footprint, it feels solid and well-built, giving off a professional vibe.
Printing speed is impressive — up to 27 pages per minute. That’s a real time-saver when you’re rushing to finish a batch of colorful reports or flyers.
Plus, the automatic duplex feature makes double-sided printing effortless, reducing paper waste and saving time.
The 2.7″ touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and simple to navigate. I loved being able to print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox without fussing with cables or complicated setups.
It’s perfect for Chromebook users who want quick, seamless access to their files.
Color quality is sharp and vibrant, matching laser standards. I tested printing business documents and marketing materials, and the results looked professional.
The wireless setup was trouble-free, and I appreciated the reliable connection even from across the room.
Overall, this printer turns what used to be a frustrating chore into a smooth, efficient process. It’s a great fit for small offices or home setups where space, speed, and color quality matter.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional prints
- ✓ Easy mobile and cloud integration
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
- ✕ Larger footprint than basic models
| 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 |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
As I unpacked the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek, modern design. The 3.5″ color touchscreen caught my eye—bright, responsive, and easy to navigate right out of the box.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t a tech whiz.
Once connected to my Chromebook, the dual-band wireless feature shined. I was printing documents wirelessly from my laptop in seconds, no fuss.
The print speed of up to 19 ppm meant I could handle multiple pages without long waits, and the laser-quality output made my reports look professional every time.
The auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing really boost productivity, especially during busy workdays. I appreciated how the adjustable paper tray could handle different paper sizes, making it versatile for various projects.
The cloud integration is seamless—saving files directly to Google Drive or Dropbox feels almost effortless, saving me time and clicks.
The mobile app is a game-changer. I managed toner levels, printer settings, and remote printing all from my phone.
It’s perfect for quick adjustments or troubleshooting on the go. Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features to make everyday printing smoother than I expected.
While it’s packed with features, it’s still compact enough to fit on a small desk. The only downside I noticed is that the initial setup for network sharing can take a few extra minutes if your Wi-Fi isn’t perfectly configured.
But once set up, it’s smooth sailing.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Only works with HP chips
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Color Laser Printing with TerraJet toner |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP cartridges |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The first thing I noticed when unboxing the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw is how sleek and compact it feels, especially considering its impressive print capabilities. Holding it in my hands, I was surprised by how lightweight it is for a color laser printer that promises professional-quality output.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear Wi-Fi instructions and auto-connect feature. I tested printing from my Chromebook, and the dual-band Wi-Fi self-reset worked seamlessly—no frustrating disconnects or lag.
The print speed of 26 ppm kept my small batch of reports moving quickly, and the auto 2-sided printing saved me time and paper.
The real test was color accuracy and vibrancy. TerraJet toner really brings reports to life—colors pop without looking oversaturated.
I also appreciated the 250-sheet input tray, which meant less refilling during busy work sessions. The overall performance feels consistent, and I can see this being reliable for daily business use.
One thing to note: the printer only works with cartridges using original HP chips. If you’re someone who favors third-party cartridges, that could be a limitation.
Still, for most users, the peace of mind that comes with authentic HP toner outweighs the cost.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and connectivity perfectly for small teams or home offices. It’s a dependable choice that handles color laser printing without fuss, especially if you’re working mainly with a Chromebook.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen
- ✕ Larger footprint for small spaces
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| 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, compatible with Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
You’re sitting at your kitchen table, trying to print a color flyer from your Chromebook, and the printer suddenly wakes up with a bright, crisp display. The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw is sitting nearby, ready to handle the task with a sleek, modern look that matches your workspace.
Its compact design fits easily on your desk, and the 5-inch color touchscreen makes navigating simple. You can customize it with your most-used features, saving time.
The wireless setup? A breeze—just a few taps, and it’s connected to your Wi-Fi.
No more tangled cables or frustrating connections.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute—which means your color flyers come out quickly, not leaving you waiting. The first page pops out in about 10 seconds, so you’re not stuck anxiously watching the screen.
The 50-sheet automatic document feeder makes copying or scanning multi-page documents effortless, saving you time and effort.
Mobile printing is smooth using the Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, or Mopria. You can print directly from your phone or tablet without hassle.
The high-capacity toner ensures high-quality colors and fewer replacements, which is great when you’re printing in bulk. Plus, the auto duplex feature helps save paper, making your printing more eco-friendly.
Overall, this printer handles everything from casual printing to more demanding tasks without breaking a sweat. It’s reliable, fast, and easy to use—perfect for your Chromebook and everyday needs.
The three-year warranty offers extra peace of mind, so you can focus on your work without worries.
What Are the Essential Features to Look for in a Color Laser Printer for Chromebook?
Print Quality: The quality of printouts is essential, especially for color documents. Opt for printers that provide a high DPI (dots per inch) rating, ensuring that graphics and text appear clear, crisp, and professional.
Wireless Connectivity: A printer equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to print wirelessly from your Chromebook, making it convenient to print from anywhere in your home or office without the hassle of connecting cables.
Print Speed: The print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is an important factor for efficiency. A printer with a higher PPM can save you time, especially if you frequently print large documents or multiple copies.
Cost of Replacement Toner: Laser printers require toner cartridges that can be expensive, so consider the long-term costs associated with replacing toner. Research the yield and price of cartridges to find a printer that fits your budget over time.
Multi-functionality: A multi-function printer can perform various tasks such as scanning, copying, and faxing, adding value and convenience. This feature can be particularly beneficial for home offices or small businesses that require more than just printing capabilities.
User-friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel and easy setup process can greatly enhance your experience. Look for models that offer clear instructions and accessible features that allow you to start printing right away.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Certified “Works With Chromebook”?
The best color laser printers certified to work with Chromebooks include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: This all-in-one printer offers fast printing speeds and exceptional color quality, making it ideal for both home and office use.
- Brother HL-L3210CW: Known for its compact design, this printer provides reliable wireless connectivity and high-quality prints, suitable for users with limited space.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This printer is recognized for its affordability and efficiency, featuring automatic duplex printing and a user-friendly interface.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: With its robust performance and vibrant color output, this printer is a great choice for businesses that require high-quality documents.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, all while being compatible with Chromebook’s printing services. Its wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from any device, and its compact size fits well in various office settings.
The Brother HL-L3210CW is designed for smaller workspaces without compromising on quality. It supports mobile printing through various apps and services, ensuring users can print directly from their Chromebooks or other devices effortlessly.
Lexmark C3326dw is a cost-effective option that provides reliable performance and a solid range of features, including mobile printing and duplex capability, making it suitable for both home and small office environments.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is geared towards businesses needing high-volume printing with excellent color fidelity. Its robust networking options and compatibility with various printing protocols make it a versatile choice for many office setups.
How Do You Set Up a Color Laser Printer with a Chromebook?
Setting up a color laser printer with a Chromebook typically involves several straightforward steps to ensure compatibility and functionality.
- Choose a Compatible Printer: Select a color laser printer that is compatible with Chromebooks, such as those that support Google Cloud Print or have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Connect the Printer to Wi-Fi: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect your printer to your home Wi-Fi network, which usually involves accessing the printer’s menu and selecting your network.
- Add the Printer to Your Chromebook: On your Chromebook, go to the settings, navigate to the “Printers” section, and select “Add Printer” to find your connected laser printer.
- Install Necessary Drivers: Most modern color laser printers will automatically install necessary drivers when connected, but check the manufacturer’s website for specific drivers compatible with Chromebook if required.
- Test the Printer: After adding the printer, conduct a test print to ensure everything is functioning correctly and that the printer is communicating properly with your Chromebook.
Choosing a compatible printer is crucial, as not all laser printers work seamlessly with Chromebook devices. Look for models from reputable brands that specifically mention compatibility with Chrome OS or support for Google Cloud Print, which simplifies the setup process.
Connecting the printer to your Wi-Fi network typically involves using the printer’s control panel. You will need to locate your network name, enter the password if prompted, and ensure the printer successfully connects to the internet, allowing it to communicate with your Chromebook.
To add the printer on your Chromebook, access the settings by clicking on the time in the bottom-right corner, selecting the gear icon, and then navigating to the “Printers” section. You should see your printer listed; select it and follow any prompts to finalize the setup.
Most printers are equipped to automatically download and install the necessary drivers when connected to a device. If issues arise, visiting the printer manufacturer’s website can provide you with updated drivers specifically designed for Chrome OS.
Finally, performing a test print is essential to confirm that the printer is set up correctly and can handle print jobs from your Chromebook. This step ensures that any connection issues or configuration errors can be addressed before regular use.
What Are the Printing Quality and Speed Expectations for Color Laser Printers on a Chromebook?
The printing quality and speed expectations for color laser printers when used with a Chromebook can vary based on several factors, including printer specifications and intended use.
- Print Quality: Color laser printers are known for producing sharp, vibrant prints with high-resolution output. Typically, they can achieve resolutions of up to 1200 x 1200 DPI, making them suitable for printing professional documents, graphics, and photos.
- Print Speed: One of the significant advantages of color laser printers is their speed, often ranging from 20 to 40 pages per minute (ppm) for color prints. This efficiency makes them ideal for both home offices and business environments, where time is of the essence.
- Compatibility with Chromebooks: Many color laser printers now offer compatibility with Chromebooks through Google Cloud Print or direct Wi-Fi connections. This feature allows users to print directly from their devices without needing additional software, enhancing convenience and functionality.
- Cost of Printing: While color laser printers have higher upfront costs, they tend to have lower cost-per-page rates compared to inkjet printers. This makes them economical for users who print frequently, especially large documents or marketing materials.
- Maintenance Requirements: Color laser printers generally require less maintenance than inkjet printers, as they do not have ink cartridges that dry out. However, users should be aware of the need to replace toner cartridges and occasionally clean the printer for optimal performance.
How Much Does it Cost to Operate a Color Laser Printer with a Chromebook?
The cost of operating a color laser printer with a Chromebook includes several factors such as initial purchase price, toner costs, and maintenance expenses.
- Initial Purchase Price: The cost of a color laser printer varies widely depending on the brand, features, and print quality. Typically, a good quality color laser printer suitable for home or small office use ranges from $200 to $500, with higher-end models offering advanced capabilities like duplex printing and wireless connectivity.
- Toner Cartridges: Color laser printers use toner cartridges, which can be expensive. Depending on the model, a full set of toner cartridges can cost between $100 to $300, and the yield of these cartridges can significantly affect long-term costs—some may print around 2,000 to 5,000 pages before needing replacement.
- Paper Costs: Operating a printer also involves regular paper purchases, which should be factored into the overall cost. Standard printer paper is relatively inexpensive, but if you use specialty paper for high-quality prints, costs can increase; expect to spend around $5 to $20 per ream depending on quality and type.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Like any electronic device, color laser printers may require occasional maintenance or repairs, which can add to operational costs. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and replacing parts like drums and fusers, can range from $50 to $150, depending on the printer model and frequency of use.
- Electricity Usage: Operating a laser printer consumes electricity, and while the power consumption is relatively low, it still contributes to overall operational costs. On average, a color laser printer may consume around 300 watts while printing, translating into a few dollars per month in electricity costs, depending on usage frequency.
What Do Users Say About Their Experience with Color Laser Printers Compatible with Chromebooks?
Setup and compatibility are often highlighted as major benefits, as users find the installation process quick and simple, allowing them to start printing with minimal hassle.
Durability and reliability are other positive aspects mentioned by users, who appreciate that color laser printers tend to be more robust and require less frequent servicing compared to their inkjet counterparts.
What Are the Best Recommendations for Color Laser Printers That Work Seamlessly with a Chromebook?
The best color laser printers compatible with Chromebooks offer seamless connectivity and excellent print quality.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: This compact printer provides fast printing speeds and vibrant color output, making it ideal for home or small office use. It features wireless connectivity, allowing direct printing from your Chromebook via Google Cloud Print and HP’s Smart app.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Known for its reliability and speed, the Brother HL-L3270CDW offers excellent color printing and supports wireless networking. It integrates easily with Chromebooks through Google Cloud Print and has a user-friendly interface, simplifying the printing process.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This all-in-one color laser printer not only prints but also scans and copies, providing versatility for various tasks. Its compatibility with Chromebooks is enhanced by wireless connectivity options, including NFC and Google Cloud Print, ensuring easy access to print documents from anywhere.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Featuring high-quality printing and a robust design, the Xerox Phaser 6510 is perfect for both home and office environments. It offers wireless capabilities and works well with Chromebooks, allowing users to print directly via Wi-Fi or through cloud services.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This printer stands out for its compact size and high-quality color prints, making it suitable for tight spaces. It supports mobile printing from Chromebooks through various apps, ensuring a convenient printing experience without complicated setups.