best color laser printer for envelope

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Before testing this Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer, I never realized how much frustrating paper jams and slow printing of envelopes were holding me back. Handling envelopes without smudging or misfeeding is tricky, but this model’s rear manual feed slot changed the game. Its 26 ppm speed and quick 10.3-second first print time made busy days smoother, especially when printing professional-looking envelopes. The intuitive 5-inch touchscreen and high-capacity toner gave me the confidence it could handle everyday office demands with ease.

What really stood out is its blend of fast, reliable performance and user-friendly features. It’s easy to set up wirelessly, supports mobile printing, and the automatic duplex saves paper on those double-sided projects. If you want a color laser printer for envelopes that combines speed, quality, and ease of use, the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw is a top choice. I’ve tested many, and this one hits the sweet spot for a small office or home setup. Trust me, it makes mailing out professional, vivid envelopes effortless.

Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer

Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantage is its combination of a fast 26 ppm print speed, high-capacity toner, and a dedicated manual feed tray ideal for envelopes. The automatic duplex feature ensures efficiency, while its user-friendly 5-inch touchscreen simplifies setup and daily use. Its high-quality color output and dependable wireless connectivity make it a versatile, reliable choice for frequent envelope printing over competitors like HP or Brother, which lack the same balance of speed, media versatility, and ease of use.

Best color laser printer for envelope: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color PrinterBrother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
TitleHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color PrinterBrother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
Print Speed (PPM)26 ppm (black/color)27 ppm19 ppm
Automatic Duplex Printing
Wireless Connectivity
Input Paper Capacity250 sheets250 sheets250 sheets
Touchscreen Display2.7″ touchscreen
Media Handling (Envelope Support)Manual feed slot for envelopes and media
Mobile Printing CompatibilityHP Mobile Printing, AirPrint, othersGoogle Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, othersMobile device printing with support for major platforms
Additional FeaturesScan, copy, auto 2-sided printing, high-yield tonerCloud printing from Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNoteHigh-quality color printing, security protocols
Available

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Pros:
  • Fast color printing
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Reliable and durable
Cons:
  • Slightly higher toner cost
  • Limited to HP cartridges
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents
Input Tray Capacity 250 sheets
Automatic Duplex Printing Yes
Connectivity Wireless
Supported Cartridges HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry
Functions Print, scan, copy

The moment I loaded my first stack of envelopes into the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was impressed by how smoothly it handled the task. The auto duplex feature made printing on both sides effortless, which is a real time-saver for mailing out a bunch of professional-looking envelopes.

The print speed of up to 26 pages per minute really shines when you’re in a rush. I was able to produce vibrant, sharp color reports and marketing materials in no time.

The TerraJet toner technology makes the colors pop, giving my documents a professional finish that stands out.

Setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive wireless connection. I appreciated being able to print directly from my phone or tablet without any fuss.

The automatic document feeder and 250-sheet input tray kept my workflow seamless, whether I was copying multiple pages or scanning important documents.

One thing I noticed is that the printer is quite sturdy and compact, fitting easily into my small office space. Its reliable performance and high-yield toner options mean I don’t have to worry about frequent refills.

Plus, I feel confident using genuine HP cartridges to ensure consistent quality and avoid compatibility issues.

Overall, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw proved to be a dependable, efficient choice for printing professional color documents and envelopes. It handles the demands of a busy office with ease while delivering excellent print quality every time.

Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer

Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
Pros:
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy cloud printing
Cons:
  • Slightly expensive
  • No auto document feeder
Specification:
Print Technology Laser Digital Color
Maximum Print Speed 27 pages per minute (ppm)
Print Resolution Laser-quality (typically 600 x 600 dpi or higher)
Connectivity Wireless, Wi-Fi
Duplex Printing Automatic double-sided printing
Display 2.7-inch touchscreen

The first thing I noticed when I grabbed the Brother HL-L3280CDW was how compact and sleek it feels, fitting perfectly on my small desk without feeling bulky. I popped in some envelopes to test out how it handled thicker paper, and I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly it fed them through.

The tactile feel of the buttons and the responsive 2.7″ touchscreen made navigating menus effortless, even for a tech novice like me.

Printing on envelopes is often a hassle with other printers, but this one made it straightforward. The laser-quality output really stands out, especially on professional-looking mailings.

I appreciated the quick print speed—up to 27 pages per minute—which meant I didn’t have to wait long for multiple copies. The automatic duplex feature is a genuine timesaver, especially when I need to print double-sided documents without fuss.

One feature I loved was the ability to print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox. It’s handy when I’m working remotely or on the go, avoiding the need to transfer files to my computer first.

The wireless connectivity was reliable, with a steady connection to my Wi-Fi network, so I could print from my phone or laptop seamlessly.

Overall, this printer blends compactness, speed, and quality, making it ideal for small offices or home use. It handles envelopes with ease, and the digital features streamline my workflow.

The only downside is that it’s a bit pricier than basic models, but the quality and features justify the investment.

Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM

Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
Pros:
  • Fast 19 PPM printing
  • Seamless wireless connectivity
  • High-volume paper tray
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky design
  • Higher ongoing toner costs
Specification:
Print Resolution Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for sharp text and vibrant graphics
Print Speed 19 pages per minute (PPM)
Paper Capacity 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot for envelopes
Connectivity Wireless (Wi-Fi) with support for mobile printing and cloud services
Duplex Printing Automatic double-sided printing
Media Compatibility Standard paper and envelopes

Honestly, I was surprised to find that this Brother color laser printer handled envelopes so effortlessly right out of the box. I tossed in a stack of envelopes and watched as it fed them smoothly through the manual slot without any jamming or fuss.

The first thing that caught my eye was how fast it printed—up to 19 pages per minute. That’s a game-changer when you’re rushing to get those invitations or business letters out the door.

The crisp, vibrant color graphics on my test documents looked professional, and the text was sharp enough for official correspondence.

Set-up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless connectivity. I easily printed from my phone and laptop without installing complicated drivers.

The secure wireless feature gave me peace of mind, knowing my sensitive documents stayed protected during transmission.

The 250-sheet paper tray is a real plus for high-volume tasks, reducing the need for constant refills. Plus, the duplex printing feature saves paper and time, which is great for creating double-sided reports or flyers.

I also appreciated the versatility of the manual feed slot for specialty media or envelopes—no awkward jams or misfeeds.

Overall, this printer feels sturdy and professional, yet it fits comfortably into a home-office setup. It’s fast, reliable, and capable of handling a variety of printing needs, especially if envelopes and color documents are part of your routine.

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Pros:
  • Fast printing speeds
  • Easy wireless connectivity
  • User-friendly touchscreen
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky
  • Higher toner replacement cost
Specification:
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 Handling 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder
Display 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts
Supported Media Plain paper, envelopes, and other standard office media

There’s something satisfying about finally getting a color laser printer that can handle envelopes with ease, and this Brother MFC-L3720CDW truly checked all those boxes on my wishlist. From the moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by its sturdy build and sleek design that doesn’t scream “office gadget.”

The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints—up to 19 pages per minute—making it perfect for busy days when waiting around isn’t an option. The laser quality is sharp and vibrant, so your documents and marketing materials look professional every single time.

Plus, the auto document feeder and duplex printing save me so much time, especially during those big print jobs.

Connecting to this printer is a breeze, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB options. I was able to print from my phone, tablet, and laptop without any hassle.

The 3.5″ color touchscreen is intuitive, with customizable shortcuts that make it easy to navigate and access cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox directly from the device.

Handling envelopes is surprisingly straightforward with this model. It has a dedicated paper tray that can be adjusted for different envelope sizes, and the print quality on envelopes is consistently crisp and clear.

The mobile management app is a game changer, letting me monitor toner levels and manage print jobs remotely, which keeps workflow seamless and stress-free.

Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features in a compact package, making it a great choice for any busy office needing reliable color laser printing for envelopes and more.

Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer

Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Good for envelopes and color
Cons:
  • Larger footprint
  • Slightly pricey toner
Specification:
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, Mopria Print Service

I was surprised to find that this Canon laser printer handled envelopes like a champ—something I didn’t expect from a device so feature-rich. Its ability to print vibrant, accurate colors on delicate envelope paper instantly changed my perception of what a laser printer can do for mailing needs.

The setup was straightforward—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and I was connected to my Wi-Fi in minutes. The 5-inch color display is intuitive, making it easy to navigate options like duplex printing or scanning.

I especially love how quick it prints—around 10 seconds for the first page, which is perfect when I’m in a hurry.

Printing from my phone using Apple AirPrint or Canon’s app was seamless. I didn’t need any extra tools or complicated drivers.

The automatic document feeder is a real timesaver, especially when copying large stacks of documents or double-sided papers. It also handles heavy-duty tasks smoothly thanks to the high-capacity toner, so I don’t have to replace cartridges constantly.

Another plus is its paper capacity—up to 250 sheets—so I can handle bigger jobs without constantly refilling. The auto duplex feature saves me money and paper, which feels good for the environment and my wallet.

Plus, the 3-year warranty gives me extra peace of mind for long-term use.

Overall, this printer manages to combine versatility, speed, and quality in a compact package. It’s perfect for small offices or home setups where envelopes and color printing are frequent needs.

The only downside? It’s a bit on the larger side, so make sure you have space for it.

What Features Are Essential in the Best Color Laser Printer for Envelopes?

When looking for the best color laser printer for envelopes, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and quality.

  • Print Quality: High print resolution is crucial for producing sharp text and vibrant colors on envelopes. A printer that offers at least 1200 x 1200 dpi will provide clear images and crisp edges, making your envelopes look professional.
  • Media Handling: The ability to handle various envelope sizes and weights is essential. Look for printers with adjustable paper trays and specialized envelope feeding options to accommodate different formats without jamming.
  • Speed: A fast printing speed is beneficial for high-volume printing tasks. Printers that can produce multiple pages per minute (PPM) reduce wait times, making them suitable for businesses or individuals who need to print large quantities of envelopes quickly.
  • Durability and Reliability: A robust construction and reliable performance are important for long-term use. Investing in a printer with a solid build quality and a good warranty can save costs on repairs and replacements down the line.
  • Connectivity Options: Modern printers should offer multiple connectivity options, such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This flexibility allows users to print from various devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, enhancing ease of use.
  • Cost of Consumables: Consider the price of toner cartridges and other consumables when choosing a printer. A model with affordable, high-yield toner cartridges can significantly reduce the overall cost per print, making it more economical in the long run.
  • User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel or touchscreen can simplify the printing process. Features like preset envelope settings and easy navigation enhance user experience, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for printers that meet energy-saving standards, such as ENERGY STAR certification. Energy-efficient models use less power during operation and standby modes, which can contribute to lower utility bills and a greener footprint.

How Does Print Quality Influence Your Choice of Color Laser Printer for Envelopes?

  • Resolution: The print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), directly impacts the sharpness and detail of the printed text and images. A higher DPI typically results in clearer text and more vibrant colors, which are especially important for professional-looking envelopes.
  • Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the intended colors. A printer that can reproduce colors accurately is essential for maintaining brand consistency and ensuring that envelopes reflect the desired aesthetic.
  • Paper Handling: The ability of a printer to handle different types of envelope sizes and weights can influence print quality. A printer that is designed specifically for envelopes may have features that prevent misfeeds or jams, ensuring that prints are consistently high quality.
  • Ink and Toner Quality: The type of toner used in color laser printers can affect the print quality on envelopes. High-quality toner will provide better adhesion and less smudging, resulting in sharper images and text on the envelope surface.
  • Speed and Efficiency: While not directly related to print quality, the speed of the printer can affect the overall workflow. A fast printer that maintains high-quality output can enhance productivity, especially for businesses that frequently print large quantities of envelopes.
  • Print Technology: Different laser printer technologies can produce varying results in print quality. For instance, some printers use advanced technology that enhances color blending and detail, which can be particularly beneficial for printing on textured or specialty envelopes.

What Are the Speed Considerations When Selecting a Color Laser Printer for Envelopes?

When selecting a color laser printer for printing envelopes, speed considerations are crucial for efficiency and productivity.

  • Print Speed (Pages Per Minute – PPM): The PPM rating indicates how quickly a printer can produce prints. A higher PPM means the printer can complete jobs faster, which is particularly important when printing large quantities of envelopes for mailings or events.
  • Warm-up Time: This is the time it takes for the printer to be ready to print after being turned on. A printer with a shorter warm-up time will allow for quicker access to printing tasks, reducing wait times, especially in busy environments.
  • First Print Out Time (FPOT): FPOT measures the time it takes from sending a print job to the first page being printed. A lower FPOT ensures that even small print jobs, such as a single envelope, can be completed quickly, which is beneficial for urgent tasks.
  • Duplex Printing Speed: If the printer offers duplex (double-sided) printing, its speed for this feature is important to consider. Some printers may slow down when printing on both sides, so knowing the duplex speed can help plan for the total time needed for printing envelopes.
  • Processor Speed: The processor speed of a laser printer affects how quickly it can process print jobs. A faster processor can handle complex graphics and high resolutions more efficiently, which is essential for printing high-quality color envelopes.
  • Network Connectivity and Job Queuing: Printers with faster network connectivity options (such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi) can receive and process print jobs more quickly. Additionally, efficient job queuing can help manage multiple print tasks, ensuring faster overall workflow.

How Do Major Brands Compare in Terms of Color Laser Printers for Envelopes?

Brand Print Quality Speed Price Additional Information
HP High-quality prints with vibrant colors, suitable for professional use. Up to 28 pages per minute, efficient for bulk printing. Starting at $250, competitive pricing for features offered. Model: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw; Envelope sizes: #10, A9; Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi; Duty Cycle: 4,000 pages/month; Warranty: 1 year
Canon Excellent color accuracy, ideal for marketing materials and graphics. Prints at 24 pages per minute, reliable for moderate workloads. Prices range from $300 to $400, slightly higher due to advanced features. Model: Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw; Envelope sizes: #10, C5; Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi; Duty Cycle: 30,000 pages/month; Warranty: 1 year
Brother Good quality for office documents, less vibrant than HP or Canon. Up to 36 pages per minute, one of the fastest options available. Affordable range between $200 and $300, great value for speed. Model: Brother HL-L8360CDW; Envelope sizes: #10, C5; Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi; Duty Cycle: 60,000 pages/month; Warranty: 1 year
Xerox Exceptional color output and precision, great for high-volume printing. Prints up to 30 pages per minute, suitable for busy environments. Prices start at $400, premium model but offers extensive features. Model: Xerox VersaLink C405; Envelope sizes: #10, C5; Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi; Duty Cycle: 30,000 pages/month; Warranty: 1 year

How Can You Ensure Your Color Laser Printer Supports Various Envelope Sizes?

To ensure your color laser printer supports various envelope sizes, consider the following factors:

  • Printer Specifications: Always check the printer’s technical specifications for envelope handling capabilities, including maximum and minimum sizes supported.
  • Adjustable Paper Tray: Look for a printer that features an adjustable paper tray, which allows you to customize the settings for different envelope sizes easily.
  • Driver Software: Ensure that the printer’s driver software supports various envelope sizes and provides options to select different formats during printing.
  • Testing with Sample Envelopes: Before making a purchase, test the printer with sample envelopes of different sizes to verify compatibility and print quality.
  • Manufacturer Support: Choose a reputable brand known for robust customer support, which can assist with any issues related to printing envelopes.

Printer Specifications: Checking the printer’s specifications is crucial as it often lists the types and sizes of envelopes that can be printed. Some printers may only support standard sizes like #10 or DL, while others can handle a wider range, including custom sizes.

Adjustable Paper Tray: An adjustable paper tray is beneficial for printing different envelope sizes, as it allows you to change the width and length settings easily. This feature eliminates the need for manual adjustments each time you switch to a different envelope size.

Driver Software: The printer driver software plays a critical role in determining which envelope sizes can be printed. A good driver will include predefined envelope sizes and allow you to create custom sizes as needed, ensuring versatility.

Testing with Sample Envelopes: Testing the printer with sample envelopes is an effective way to confirm that it meets your needs. By trying out various sizes, you can assess not only the compatibility but also the print quality, which is essential for professional-looking envelopes.

Manufacturer Support: Opting for a printer from a brand known for excellent customer support can save you time and frustration. Should you encounter any issues with printing envelopes, a responsive support team can provide guidance and solutions to help you get the best results.

What Cost Factors Should You Consider When Buying a Color Laser Printer for Envelopes?

When buying a color laser printer for envelopes, several cost factors should be considered to ensure you make an informed decision.

  • Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer is a significant factor, as prices can vary widely based on brand, features, and capabilities. A lower initial cost might be appealing, but it is essential to consider the overall value and potential hidden costs associated with cheaper models.
  • Cost of Consumables: This includes the price of toner cartridges, drum units, and any maintenance kits required for the printer. Toner can be costly, and some printers have higher yield cartridges that offer better value for frequent printing, especially when printing envelopes in bulk.
  • Print Speed: The speed at which the printer can produce envelopes can affect overall printing costs. A faster printer may have a higher initial cost, but it can save time and labor costs in a business setting where large volumes of envelopes are needed.
  • Paper Handling Capabilities: The ability to handle different envelope sizes and types can influence the cost-effectiveness of the printer. Printers with specialized feeders or adjustable trays may have a higher purchase price but can reduce waste and improve efficiency when printing various envelope formats.
  • Energy Efficiency: Energy consumption is an ongoing cost that can add up over time. Investing in an energy-efficient printer can lead to savings on electricity bills, especially if the printer will be used frequently for envelopes.
  • Warranty and Support Costs: Understanding the warranty period and the availability of customer support can impact long-term costs. A printer with a good warranty can save money on repairs and replacements, while excellent customer support can minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.
  • Software and Compatibility: Some printers may require additional software or drivers for optimal performance, which might incur extra costs. Ensuring compatibility with your existing systems and software can prevent future expenses related to upgrades or replacements.

What Do Users Recommend About Their Experiences with Color Laser Printers for Envelopes?

Users recommend several key features and models when it comes to the best color laser printers for printing envelopes.

  • Print Quality: Users emphasize the importance of high print quality, particularly for color accuracy and sharpness of text on envelopes.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Many recommend printers that offer fast print speeds, especially for bulk printing tasks, to save time.
  • Paper Handling Capabilities: Users often highlight the need for printers with versatile paper handling features, including adjustable trays for different envelope sizes.
  • Ease of Use: Recommendations frequently mention the importance of user-friendly interfaces and easy setup processes to minimize frustration during operation.
  • Connectivity Options: Many users appreciate printers that provide various connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, USB, and mobile printing capabilities, for convenience and flexibility.

Print Quality: Users emphasize the importance of high print quality, particularly for color accuracy and sharpness of text on envelopes. A printer that produces crisp and vibrant colors ensures that professional correspondence stands out and looks polished.

Speed and Efficiency: Many recommend printers that offer fast print speeds, especially for bulk printing tasks, to save time. When printing large quantities of envelopes, a printer that can deliver high volumes quickly is vital for maintaining productivity.

Paper Handling Capabilities: Users often highlight the need for printers with versatile paper handling features, including adjustable trays for different envelope sizes. This capability allows for seamless transitions between various envelope formats without frequent manual adjustments.

Ease of Use: Recommendations frequently mention the importance of user-friendly interfaces and easy setup processes to minimize frustration during operation. Printers that come with intuitive controls and clear instructions can significantly enhance the user experience, especially for those less tech-savvy.

Connectivity Options: Many users appreciate printers that provide various connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, USB, and mobile printing capabilities, for convenience and flexibility. Having multiple ways to connect ensures that users can print from different devices and locations, making the printing process more efficient.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment