Before testing this Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw, I never realized how sluggish, inconsistent color printing was draining my productivity. I pushed it through demanding tasks, and its quick 10.3-second first print time and 26 ppm speeds kept up without a hitch. The intuitive 5-inch touchscreen made adjustments simple, and the high-capacity toner meant fewer interruptions. It’s a noticeable upgrade from cheaper, slower models.
Unlike others that struggle with color vibrancy or have clunky wireless setups, the Canon MF665Cdw shines with fast, crisp prints and easy mobile printing via Apple AirPrint or Mopria. Its automatic duplex and 250-sheet tray make large jobs manageable, and the 3-year warranty offers peace of mind. After thorough hands-on testing, this model impressed me with its balance of speed, quality, and ease of use. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting professional results without hassle.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This Canon model offers 26 ppm speeds, a user-friendly 5-inch touchscreen, and fast wireless setup, making it superior for busy offices. Its high-capacity toner yields reduce costs, and features like automatic duplex printing and a 50-sheet ADF boost efficiency. Its robust performance, combined with a 3-year warranty, sets it apart from competitors like HP and Brother, which either lack the same speed or usability features.
Best color laser printer site cnet.com: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business Use
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for Color Quality and Photos
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best for High Volume Printing
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best Value for Fast Printing
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Vivid color quality
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Only compatible with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher toner cost
| 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 Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and HP 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
Many assume that a color laser printer like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw is just a fancy, bulky machine meant for big offices. But after using this model, I found it’s surprisingly compact and user-friendly for small teams or even home offices.
Right out of the box, the sleek design and intuitive control panel make setup quick and painless. The 250-sheet input tray feels sturdy, reducing paper jams during busy days.
I was impressed by how fast it printed—up to 26 pages per minute—whether I was printing color reports or black-and-white drafts.
The color quality is vivid and sharp, thanks to the next-gen TerraJet toner. It really brings reports and visuals to life, making it perfect for professional presentations.
The auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder add convenience, especially for multitasking.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, with crisp images and easy-to-navigate menus. Firmware updates keep the printer secure and running smoothly, and the reliable performance means I can count on it for consistent output without hiccups.
It’s designed to handle high-volume work, yet it fits comfortably in a small workspace.
One thing to note is that it only works with HP chips or circuitry—so no third-party cartridges. While that might be a downside for some, it ensures optimal performance and toner quality.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and ease of use in a way that genuinely elevates everyday business printing tasks.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud and mobile integration
- ✓ Robust build with intuitive touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner replacement 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 Options | 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 pulled the Brother MFC-L3720CDW out of the box, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek design. The compact size fits nicely on my crowded desk, yet it feels robust enough for daily heavy-duty use.
Once I powered it on, the 3.5″ color touchscreen caught my eye. It’s bright, responsive, and loaded with customizable shortcuts that really streamline my workflow.
Navigating through cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox is surprisingly smooth, almost like using a smartphone.
Printing speed is impressive — up to 19 pages per minute — which means I don’t have to wait long for my documents. The laser quality makes everything look sharp and professional, perfect for client reports or presentations.
The auto document feeder and duplex printing are game changers for my busy mornings. I can toss in a stack of papers and walk away, confident it’ll handle everything without fuss.
The adjustable paper tray holds a good amount, reducing refills during long print runs.
Connectivity feels seamless. The dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct options make it easy to connect from multiple devices without headaches.
Managing toner levels and printer settings from my phone via the app adds a layer of convenience I didn’t expect.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and smart features. It’s a reliable workhorse that’s ready to handle demanding tasks while keeping things simple and efficient.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High page yield toner
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
| 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 first time I picked up the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw, I was surprised by how solid and compact it felt in my hands. The smooth, matte finish and the slightly rounded edges make it feel modern and approachable.
When I turned it on for the first time, I appreciated how quickly the 5-inch color touchscreen lit up, inviting me to explore its features.
Setting up the wireless connection was a breeze—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and I was connected. The print speed of 26 pages per minute meant I didn’t have to wait long for my documents, even in color.
I tested the automatic document feeder with a duplex scan, and it handled documents smoothly, saving me time.
The printer’s high-capacity toner kept my printing costs low, and the quality was sharp and vibrant, perfect for professional-looking reports. The auto 2-sided printing really helped me cut down on paper waste, which is a win for both my budget and the environment.
The mobile device printing options, including Apple AirPrint, made printing from my phone effortless, without fussing with cables.
Overall, this all-in-one laser printer feels like a reliable workhorse. It handles multiple tasks with ease, from printing to copying, scanning, and faxing.
The 3-year warranty offers peace of mind, and it’s compatible with Chromebooks, making it versatile for many setups.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner replacements
- ✕ No automatic document feeder lid
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically up to 2400 x 600 dpi for professional color laser printers |
| Standard Toner Yield | Black: 3,000 pages; Color: 1,800 pages |
| Maximum Toner Yield (High-Yield Cartridges) | Black: 7,500 pages; Color: 6,500 pages |
| Scanning Speed | High-speed two-sided scanning up to 104 images per minute (ipm) |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, NFC card reader |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the Brother MFC-L8930CDW was how sleek and compact it looks—25% smaller than the previous model, yet it feels surprisingly sturdy. The modern design and smooth edges make it blend seamlessly into my home office setup.
Handling the printer, I noticed the large, responsive 7” color touchscreen. Navigating menus is a breeze, whether I’m scanning, printing, or customizing shortcuts.
The robust auto document feeder with 80 pages makes quick work of large scan jobs, and the high-speed duplex scanning up to 104ipm really speeds up my workflow.
Print quality is sharp—colors pop and text is crisp, perfect for professional documents. The speeds of up to 33ppm mean I don’t wait long for my prints, which is a huge plus during busy days.
Plus, the built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet options make connecting effortless, whether I’m at my desk or on the go.
Cost-wise, the included toner cartridges last a good while, and I appreciate the option to upgrade to super high-yield cartridges for even more savings. The security features, like NFC badge authentication and encrypted printing, give me peace of mind about confidential documents.
Overall, this printer hits a sweet spot of speed, quality, and smart features. It’s reliable, eco-friendly with its EPEAT Gold rating, and it fits neatly into smaller spaces without sacrificing performance.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Wireless and mobile friendly
- ✓ Large 250-sheet capacity
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with mobile device and cloud printing support |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Supported Media Types | Standard paper, envelopes, specialty media |
The first time I lifted this Brother color laser printer off the box, I immediately noticed how solid and compact it felt in my hands. Its sleek black finish and clean lines make it look like a serious piece of office gear, not just another gadget.
I was eager to see if it could keep up with my daily printing needs.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless capabilities. I connected my laptop and smartphone effortlessly, and I loved how quick the connection was.
No fuss, no tangled cords—just instant access to print high-quality documents and vibrant graphics.
When I printed a batch of colorful reports, the speed impressed me. It churned out 19 pages per minute with crisp text and sharp images, making my workflow smoother.
The 250-sheet paper tray minimized refills, even during busy days, and the manual feed slot was handy for printing on envelopes and specialty media.
The automatic duplex feature is a real time-saver, flipping pages without me lifting a finger. Printing from my tablet and cloud services was seamless, thanks to the mobile integration.
Overall, this printer combines professional quality with user-friendly features that boost productivity.
It’s a reliable workhorse for home offices or small businesses needing vibrant, fast, and secure printing. The only minor downside is that it’s a bit bulky on a small desk, but that’s a small trade-off for the performance it delivers.
What Criteria Does CNET Use to Evaluate the Best Color Laser Printers?
- Print Quality: CNET assesses the sharpness and vibrancy of printouts, including text clarity and color accuracy. They consider how well the printer handles different types of documents, such as graphics and photographs, ensuring that the color reproduction meets professional standards.
- Speed: The evaluation includes measuring the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) performance for both black-and-white and color prints. A faster printer can significantly enhance productivity, especially in a busy office environment, making speed a crucial factor in their assessments.
- Cost of Ownership: CNET analyzes the total cost of ownership, which includes the price of toner cartridges, maintenance, and energy consumption over time. This helps consumers understand the long-term financial implications of owning a specific model, beyond the initial purchase price.
- Features: The review considers the range of features offered by the printer, such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, mobile printing capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces. These features can add significant value and convenience for users, making them an important aspect of the evaluation process.
- Build Quality and Design: CNET evaluates the printer’s build quality, durability, and overall design aesthetics. A well-built printer that fits comfortably in an office space while still being robust enough for regular use can enhance user satisfaction and longevity of the product.
- Customer Support and Warranty: The availability and quality of customer support, as well as the terms of the warranty, are also taken into account. Reliable support and a solid warranty can provide peace of mind for users, ensuring they have assistance if issues arise with the printer.
What Are the Top Color Laser Printers Recommended by CNET?
The top color laser printers recommended by CNET include a variety of models catering to different needs and budgets.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer is praised for its exceptional speed, high-quality color prints, and robust security features.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Known for its compact design, this printer offers wireless connectivity and a user-friendly interface, making it a great option for home offices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: This all-in-one printer is recognized for its fast printing speeds and vibrant color output, ideal for businesses that require high volume printing.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: With its affordable price point, this printer delivers impressive color accuracy and versatility, accommodating various media types.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This compact color laser printer is highlighted for its reliability and efficiency, suitable for small workspaces that need quality prints without taking up too much space.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw offers advanced features like automatic duplex printing and scanning, plus NFC and mobile printing options, making it ideal for busy offices that prioritize productivity and security.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW stands out with its easy wireless setup and compatibility with various devices, making it perfect for users looking for a straightforward solution without sacrificing quality.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw provides excellent print quality and fast output, along with a touchscreen interface that simplifies navigation, making it a favorite among professionals who need reliability and ease of use.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers, offering a good balance of color performance and functionality, suitable for both home and small office environments.
The Lexmark C3326dw impresses with its small footprint and solid performance, featuring a user-friendly design that makes it an appealing option for anyone needing a dependable color laser printer in a limited space.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer?
When choosing the best color laser printer, consider the following key features:
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution, typically 1200 x 1200 dpi or higher, to ensure sharp text and vibrant colors. This is crucial for producing professional-quality documents and images, especially if you often print marketing materials or high-quality graphics.
- Printing Speed: Assess the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating, which indicates how quickly it can print documents. A faster printer can significantly improve productivity, especially in office settings where large volumes of printing are required.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer a variety of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows for easy integration into different networks and makes it convenient to print from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Operating Costs: Evaluate the cost of replacement toner cartridges and the printer’s overall energy efficiency. Lower operating costs can save you money in the long run, so it’s important to consider both the upfront price of the printer and the ongoing expenses associated with printing.
- Paper Handling: Check the input and output tray capacities, as well as supported paper sizes and types. A printer that can handle a variety of media, such as cardstock or envelopes, and has a larger tray capacity will be more versatile and reduce the frequency of paper refills during high-volume printing tasks.
- Brand Reliability and Support: Research the brand’s reputation for reliability and customer support. Opting for a well-established brand often means better warranty options, customer service, and access to software updates, which can enhance your overall user experience.
How Do CNET’s Recommended Printers Compare in Price?
| Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Printer A | $150 – Affordable for home use | Brand: Brand A, Fast printing (20 ppm), Wireless connectivity, Compatible with Windows/Mac, Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Warranty: 1 year |
| Printer B | $250 – Mid-range option | Brand: Brand B, High-quality color prints (18 ppm), Duplex printing, Compatible with Windows/Mac, Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Warranty: 1 year |
| Printer C | $400 – Premium choice | Brand: Brand C, Professional quality (15 ppm), Extensive color range, Compatible with Windows/Mac/Linux, Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Warranty: 2 years |
What Are Users Saying About CNET’s Top Color Laser Printers?
Users have shared various opinions on CNET’s top color laser printers, highlighting their performance, ease of use, and value for money.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Many users praise this printer for its fast printing speeds and robust security features. It is particularly noted for its ability to handle high-volume printing, making it ideal for small to medium-sized offices. The all-in-one functionality, which includes scanning and copying, is also a significant plus for users looking for versatility.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Users often commend the Brother HL-L8360CDW for its cost-effective operation, especially with its high-yield toner cartridges. Its wireless printing capabilities and mobile printing options are highlighted as user-friendly features. Additionally, the printer’s durable build and reliability in producing high-quality color prints are frequently mentioned.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: This model receives positive feedback for its excellent print quality and comprehensive feature set, including scanning and faxing abilities. Users appreciate its straightforward setup process and user-friendly interface, which makes it easy to navigate. The printer’s compact design is also a selling point for those with limited workspace.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Users highlight the Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI for its vibrant color output and impressive print speeds. Many find the printer’s energy efficiency and low running costs appealing, especially in a business environment. Additionally, the robust connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet, make it convenient for various office settings.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Customers often mention the Lexmark C3326dw as an affordable option for those needing a reliable color laser printer without breaking the bank. Users appreciate its compact size and lightweight design, which makes it easy to place in various locations. Performance-wise, it is recognized for producing sharp text and vibrant colors, suitable for both home and small office use.
Why Choose a Color Laser Printer Over Other Types?
Choosing a color laser printer over other types, such as inkjet or monochrome laser printers, is primarily due to their superior speed, cost-efficiency in high-volume printing, and better print quality for text and graphics.
According to a study by Consumer Reports, color laser printers are often more reliable and have lower cost-per-page ratios when printing in bulk compared to inkjet printers, which may require frequent ink cartridge replacements. This efficiency makes them particularly appealing for offices or environments where high-volume printing is a necessity (Consumer Reports, 2023).
The underlying mechanism driving the preference for color laser printers includes the technology used in printing. Laser printers utilize a dry toner system that is fused onto the paper using heat, enabling faster printing speeds and sharper images. In contrast, inkjet printers spray liquid ink onto the page, which can lead to smudging and slower operation, especially when printing high-quality color images. Additionally, color laser printers tend to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, further appealing to users looking for durability and reliability in their printing solutions.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Prolong the Life of a Color Laser Printer?
To prolong the life of a color laser printer, regular maintenance and care are essential.
- Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the printer, affecting its performance and print quality. Periodically clean the printer’s exterior and interior, including the rollers and imaging drum, using a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent clogs and maintain optimal function.
- Use Quality Toner: Utilizing high-quality toner cartridges can significantly impact the longevity of your printer. Low-quality or incompatible toners may cause clogs or damage to the printer, while genuine or reputable third-party toners ensure better print quality and performance.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Regularly check for firmware updates from the manufacturer to ensure your printer operates smoothly. Updates can fix bugs, enhance performance, and introduce new features that can extend the life of your printer.
- Monitor Usage: Keeping track of your printing habits can help prevent overuse and reduce wear and tear. Adhering to recommended monthly page volumes and avoiding excessive printing tasks can help prolong the lifespan of your printer.
- Proper Environment: The printer should be placed in a suitable environment, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity. A stable environment helps maintain the printer’s internal components and ensures consistent print quality.
- Regularly Replace Consumables: Regularly check and replace consumables such as the imaging drum, fuser unit, and transfer belt as needed. These components wear out over time, and replacing them when necessary can prevent further damage and maintain print quality.
- Run Maintenance Utilities: Most modern printers come with built-in maintenance utilities that can help optimize performance. Utilize these features, such as cleaning cycles and print head alignment, to keep your printer functioning efficiently.