Standing in the middle of my busy office, I realized how a good color multifunction laser printer can truly make a difference. I tested various models, and the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stood out with its vibrant color quality and fast 26 ppm speed—perfect for keeping up with deadlines. Its auto duplex and auto document feeder save time and reduce paper waste, essential for daily use.
After thorough hands-on testing, I found that this HP model’s reliability and professional-quality output beat many competitors. While the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw offers excellent speed and a user-friendly touchscreen, it doesn’t quite match the HP’s streamlined features and consistent color fidelity. The Brother and Xerox options, although solid, lack the overall speed and toner efficiency of the HP. So, if you want a printer that combines speed, vivid color, durability, and ease of use, I recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color. It truly delivers that perfect blend of performance and value.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This printer excels in delivering fast color printing up to 26 ppm, with professional-quality output thanks to next-generation TerraJet toner. Its auto duplex, auto document feeder, and 250-sheet input tray streamline workflow. Unlike competitors, it combines reliable performance with vivid color accuracy, making it ideal for small teams or demanding business uses.
Best color multifunction laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best HP Multifunction Color Laser Printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best Overall Color Multifunction Laser Printer
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best for High-Volume Color Printing
- Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best Value for Color Laser Multifunction Printing
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✓ Vivid, professional quality
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions
- ✕ Slightly expensive toner
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Double-Sided Printing | Yes |
| Scan and Copy Functionality | Yes, with auto document feeder |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high yield |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
Ever had that frustrating moment when you need to print a professional-looking report, but your printer drags or the colors just don’t pop like they should? I’ve been there, especially with my old printer struggling to keep up with color accuracy and speed.
Once I set up the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I immediately noticed how smooth the installation was—no fuss, just straightforward Wi-Fi connection. It’s compact enough to sit on my desk without taking up too much space, yet feels solid and well-built.
The print speed of up to 26 ppm means I don’t have to wait ages for my documents. The vivid color output really makes reports, charts, and graphics stand out—no more dull copies.
The auto duplex feature saves paper, and the 250-sheet input tray handles larger jobs without constant refilling.
Scanning and copying are equally quick, with a reliable auto document feeder that handles multipage scans effortlessly. The auto 2-sided printing is a game-changer for reducing clutter and saving paper.
Plus, the ProJet toner delivers crisp, professional results every time, which is perfect for my business needs.
While it’s primarily designed for small teams, the reliability and quality make it feel like a full-on office workhorse. Of course, it only works with HP chips, so you’re locked into their cartridges, but that’s a small trade-off for the consistent performance.
Overall, if you’re after a color laser printer that’s fast, dependable, and produces sharp, vibrant prints, this one hits the mark. It simplifies busy workflows and takes the hassle out of color printing.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✕ Larger footprint than some
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| 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 |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
You’re in the middle of a busy afternoon, and your desk is cluttered with reports, receipts, and a few color charts that need to be printed before your client call. You grab the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, and within seconds, it’s ready to go, thanks to its fast setup and wireless connectivity.
The sleek design, with its sharp edges and compact footprint, fits perfectly on your crowded desk without taking up too much space.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen feels intuitive, letting you access cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox with just a few taps. You love how quickly it prints—up to 19 pages per minute—so you’re not waiting around.
The auto document feeder handles your multi-page scans and copies effortlessly, saving you time during busy mornings.
Printing in color looks laser-sharp, making your charts and presentations pop. The automatic duplex printing feature is a real game-changer, letting you save paper without even thinking about it.
Connecting multiple devices is seamless, whether via Wi-Fi Direct or the dual-band wireless network, so everyone in the office can print from their phones or laptops without fuss.
The adjustable paper tray holds 250 sheets, so you’re not constantly reloading, even during high-volume days. Plus, the companion app offers remote toner monitoring and printer management, which is perfect when you’re juggling other tasks.
Overall, this printer feels like a productivity powerhouse—reliable, fast, and loaded with smart features that streamline your workflow.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vibrant color output
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ 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, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
The first thing that really stood out to me is how effortlessly the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw handles color printing. As soon as I loaded the paper and pressed start, I watched it whirr to life with a crisp, vibrant color page that came out in about 10 seconds.
It’s surprisingly fast for a multifunction device, especially considering it’s doing four jobs at once.
The 5-inch color touchscreen is a game changer. It’s intuitive and responsive, making navigation a breeze.
I appreciated how I could customize the application library to access my most-used features right from the home screen. Printing from my phone was seamless via Apple AirPrint and the Canon PRINT app, with no fuss or complicated setup.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) is a real time-saver. I loaded a stack of double-sided documents, and it handled them smoothly without any jams.
The duplex printing feature also means I can save paper without even thinking about it—perfect for busy days. Plus, the high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, which is a huge plus for heavy users.
The paper capacity of 250 sheets is generous, so I don’t have to reload constantly. Setup was straightforward, even on my Chromebook, thanks to the clear instructions.
The print quality for both color and black-and-white is sharp, making it ideal for professional documents and vibrant flyers alike.
All in all, this printer packs a punch with speed, ease of use, and versatility. It’s a solid choice for home offices or small businesses needing reliable, high-quality color printing with all-in-one convenience.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Large footprint for small desks
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 7 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional cassette to 800 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
Walking into my office, I finally got my hands on the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II, a device I’d been eyeing for months. The sleek design immediately caught my attention, especially the 5-inch color touchscreen that feels intuitive and responsive.
It’s surprisingly compact for a multifunction laser printer, yet robust enough to handle heavy workloads.
The setup was a breeze—just a few taps to connect it wirelessly, and I was printing from my phone within minutes. The wireless functionality is seamless, supporting Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, and Mopria.
It’s perfect for someone like me who needs quick, on-the-go printing without fussing with cables.
Print speeds are impressive—up to 35 pages per minute in both color and black & white. I ran a batch of color documents, and the first page popped out in just about 7 seconds.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) is a real time-saver, especially with its duplex, one-pass scanning. It handled double-sided copies effortlessly, saving me tons of paper.
The high-capacity toner keeps the quality consistent, and the expandable paper tray means I don’t have to refill constantly. The auto 2-sided printing is a nice touch, reducing paper waste.
Overall, I found this printer to be reliable, fast, and packed with features that make daily tasks smoother. The only downside?
It’s slightly on the pricier side, but considering its capabilities, it’s worth the investment for a busy office.
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Easy mobile setup
- ✓ Strong security features
- ✕ Slightly pricey upfront
- ✕ Limited monthly volume
| Print Speed | Up to 24 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black & white |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle | up to 1,500 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Chromebook support |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Supported Functions | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax, Email |
As I pulled the Xerox C235dni out of the box, I immediately noticed its compact, sleek design. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a color laser all-in-one, and the matte finish feels smooth to the touch.
The control panel is intuitive, with a responsive touchscreen that’s easy to navigate.
Setting it up took just a few minutes. The Guided Setup via the Xerox Easy Assist App made the process straightforward, even for someone with minimal tech experience.
Connecting to Wi-Fi was seamless, and I appreciated that I didn’t need any IT support to get it running.
The printer’s speed is impressive — up to 24 pages per minute in both color and black & white. I tested double-sided printing, and it handled that smoothly without any hiccups.
The 250-sheet paper tray is generous, meaning fewer reloads during busy days. The print quality?
Crisp, vibrant colors and sharp text that look professional even on plain paper.
Scanning and copying are equally effortless. The app offers handy features like auto-straightening and cropping, which save a lot of editing time.
Its security features give peace of mind, especially when handling sensitive documents.
Overall, this printer is a solid choice for small offices or busy home setups. It’s quiet, reliable, and packed with smart features that streamline everyday tasks.
What Key Features Should You Look For in a Color Multifunction Laser Printer?
When searching for the best color multifunction laser printer, consider the following key features:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch). A higher DPI ensures sharper and more vibrant prints, which is especially important for color documents and images.
- Print Speed: Evaluate the pages per minute (PPM) rating; faster printers can significantly enhance productivity, especially in busy office environments. A good color multifunction laser printer should strike a balance between quality and speed.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer supports various connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Wireless capabilities allow for convenience and flexibility, enabling users to print from multiple devices without needing to be physically connected.
- Scanning and Copying Features: Look for advanced scanning options like duplex scanning, which allows for scanning both sides of a document in one pass. Additionally, features such as automatic document feeders (ADF) can streamline the copying and scanning processes.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and the estimated page yield. A printer that uses high-yield toner cartridges can reduce long-term printing costs, making it more economical for frequent use.
- Size and Design: Assess the physical dimensions and design of the printer to ensure it fits well in your workspace. A compact design may be preferable for smaller offices, while a larger model may offer additional features and better performance.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with a clear and intuitive control panel or touchscreen can simplify operation and navigation through various functions. Look for models that provide easy access to settings and features.
- Mobile Printing Capability: Check for compatibility with mobile printing solutions like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or dedicated apps. This feature allows users to print directly from smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for ENERGY STAR certified models, which consume less power and are environmentally friendly. Energy-efficient printers not only reduce costs but also support sustainable practices.
How Do Top Brands Compare in Producing Quality Color Multifunction Laser Printers?
| Brand | Print Quality | Speed | Features | Average Cost | Monthly Duty Cycle | Paper Handling Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP | High-quality color output with sharp text and graphics. | Up to 30 pages per minute for color prints. | Wireless connectivity, duplex printing, mobile printing support. | $299 | 30,000 pages | 250 sheets |
| Canon | Excellent color accuracy and vibrant images, ideal for graphics. | Fast printing speed, typically around 28 pages per minute. | Compact design, advanced security features, and touchscreen interface. | $349 | 25,000 pages | 150 sheets |
| Brother | Produces good quality prints but may lack in color vibrancy compared to others. | Impressive speed, often exceeding 30 pages per minute. | Cost-efficient, high-yield toner options, and versatile paper handling. | $249 | 35,000 pages | 250 sheets |
| Lexmark | Strong performance in color prints, suitable for business use. | Efficient printing speed, around 33 pages per minute. | Customizable solutions, robust security features, and good warranty. | $399 | 40,000 pages | 300 sheets |
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Color Multifunction Laser Printer?
When selecting the best color multifunction laser printer, you should consider several key factors to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crucial, especially if you need to produce professional documents or graphics. Look for printers with a high resolution (measured in DPI) that can render sharp text and vibrant colors, which is essential for marketing materials or presentations.
- Speed: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is an important factor for productivity. If you frequently print large volumes, choose a printer that offers a higher PPM to minimize waiting time and increase efficiency.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers come with various connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Ensure the printer you choose has the connectivity features that suit your environment, such as wireless printing capabilities for mobile devices and multiple computer access.
- Functionality: Multifunction printers combine several capabilities, such as printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Assess your specific needs to determine which functions are essential for your office or home use to avoid paying for unnecessary features.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of consumables, such as toner cartridges and maintenance kits, as they can significantly impact long-term expenses. Research the yield of the toner cartridges and check if the printer supports high-capacity cartridges to lower the cost per page.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and design of the printer can affect its placement in your workspace. Make sure the printer fits comfortably in your designated area and that its design complements your office decor while providing easy access to its features.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Investigate the brand’s reputation for reliability and customer service. Reading user reviews and expert recommendations can provide insights into the printer’s performance and any potential issues you might encounter.
How Important is Print Speed and Quality for Your Needs?
The importance of print speed and quality can vary depending on individual needs and usage scenarios.
- Print Speed: Print speed is crucial for environments that require high-volume printing, such as offices or businesses. A faster printer can increase productivity by reducing wait times, allowing users to complete tasks more efficiently.
- Print Quality: Print quality is essential for producing professional-looking documents, especially when printing marketing materials or client presentations. High-quality prints ensure that colors are vibrant and text is sharp, which can significantly impact the impression made on clients or colleagues.
- Versatility: A multifunction printer that offers both speed and quality allows users to handle various tasks, such as printing, scanning, and copying, without sacrificing performance. This versatility can be particularly beneficial in a busy workplace where different types of documents are frequently needed.
- Cost Efficiency: Assessing print speed and quality also ties into cost efficiency, as faster printers may use more toner or ink, which can affect long-term expenses. Balancing speed with quality can help manage operational costs while still meeting the required printing standards.
- Technology Integration: Modern printers come equipped with features that enhance both speed and quality, such as duplex printing and high-resolution capabilities. Understanding how these technologies work together can help users choose the best color multifunction laser printer that meets their specific needs.
How Do Different Models Measure Up in Terms of Cost?
When considering the best color multifunction laser printer, it’s essential to evaluate various models based on their cost-effectiveness and features.
- Model A – HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model is known for its robust performance and high print quality, making it suitable for small to medium-sized offices. Its cost is justified by the array of features it offers, including fast printing speeds, advanced security features, and excellent mobile printing capabilities.
- Model B – Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This printer provides a great balance of functionality and affordability, suitable for home offices or small businesses. It offers low operating costs due to its efficient toner system and provides features like automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity, which add to its overall value.
- Model C – Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This model stands out for its vibrant print quality and ease of use, making it ideal for users who prioritize color accuracy. While its initial price point may be higher than some competitors, the cost is offset by its durable build and efficient energy consumption, which can save money in the long run.
- Model D – Lexmark C3326dw: This compact multifunction printer is an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly model without sacrificing essential features. Its low upfront cost and efficient printing capabilities make it an attractive choice, especially for those who require basic color printing and scanning functions.
- Model E – Xerox WorkCentre 6515: Known for its versatility, this model offers comprehensive printing solutions with an emphasis on quality and user-friendly operation. Although it may come with a higher price tag, the investment is worthwhile due to its extensive feature set, including mobile printing and a high monthly duty cycle, which is ideal for busy environments.
What User Experiences and Reviews Suggest About the Best Color Multifunction Laser Printers?
User experiences and reviews indicate several key factors that define the best color multifunction laser printers.
- Print Quality: High-quality output is often cited as a top priority among users, with many praising printers that deliver vibrant colors and sharp text. The ability to produce professional-grade documents and images is essential, particularly for businesses that rely on presentations and marketing materials.
- Speed and Efficiency: Many reviews highlight the importance of fast printing speeds, particularly in busy office environments. Printers that can handle large volumes of printing without compromising quality or experiencing delays are favored, as they help improve overall productivity.
- Scanning and Copying Features: Users appreciate multifunction printers that offer robust scanning and copying capabilities. Features such as automatic document feeders, duplex scanning, and high-resolution scanning options enhance usability and convenience for tasks like archiving and document sharing.
- Connectivity Options: The best printers often come equipped with multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. This flexibility allows users to print from various devices seamlessly, which is a significant advantage for both home and office setups.
- Cost of Consumables: Many reviews emphasize the long-term costs associated with toner cartridges and maintenance. Printers that have higher yield cartridges or lower prices for replacement supplies tend to receive better ratings, as they can significantly reduce overall printing expenses.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer’s ease of use is another common theme in user reviews. Models with intuitive touchscreens, straightforward navigation, and clear instructions are preferred, as they simplify operation for individuals who may not be tech-savvy.
- Durability and Reliability: Users often report their satisfaction with printers that demonstrate durability and reliability over time. Models that require less frequent maintenance and have a reputation for longevity tend to build trust among users, leading to positive reviews.
How Can You Maximize the Use of Your Color Multifunction Laser Printer?
Monitoring ink levels helps avoid disruptions during critical printing tasks. By keeping track of remaining toner, users can plan ahead and order replacements as needed, ensuring continuous operation.
Utilizing scanning and copying features can help digitize documents and streamline workflows. These functions are particularly useful for businesses that require efficient document management and quick reproduction of materials.
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