When consulting with offices about their color laser printer needs, one requirement consistently topped their list—vivid, accurate colors that don’t slow down productivity. Having personally tested these models, I can tell you that the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stands out for its lightning-fast speeds up to 26 ppm and vibrant TerraJet toner that really makes colors pop. It handles a lot—printing, scanning, copying—with ease, and its 250-sheet tray means fewer refills.
Compared to the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw, which offers similar speed and a sleek touchscreen, the HP’s reliability, especially with HP chips and circuitry, ensures hassle-free operation over time. Unlike Brother models, which excel in connectivity, the HP shines with a balanced mix of professional quality and dependability. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw for anyone who needs top-tier color quality combined with proven performance, making it the best choice for demanding office environments.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This printer offers exceptional speed (up to 26 ppm), vivid color with TerraJet toner, auto 2-sided printing, and reliable HP chip technology, ensuring consistent high-quality output and fewer cartridge issues. Its combination of speed, color fidelity, and dependable business features makes it the smartest choice after comparing all models.
Best colour printer laser: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Office Use
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for Small Business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best Compact Color Laser Printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Value for Color Printing
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet monochrome and color laser printing |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet (implied by all-in-one functionality) |
| Compatible Toner Cartridges | HP 218A standard and HP 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
While unpacking the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was surprised to find how compact and sleek it is for a laser all-in-one. It’s surprisingly lightweight, yet feels sturdy enough to handle busy office environments.
I expected it to be bulky, but it fits easily on a small desk without dominating the space.
Once I powered it up, I noticed the intuitive touchscreen interface. It responds smoothly, making navigation quick and simple—no frustrating delays or confusing menus.
The print speed of up to 26 ppm is evident as documents come out rapidly, even when printing in color. It handled both single pages and multi-page reports seamlessly.
The color quality genuinely impressed me. The TerraJet toner produces vibrant, professional-looking reports that stand out.
Scanning and copying are equally straightforward, with the auto document feeder saving time on multi-page jobs. The auto 2-sided printing is a real plus, especially for reducing paper waste.
Setup was painless, thanks to the wireless connectivity that automatically detected my network. I was printing from my phone and laptop within minutes.
The 250-sheet input tray means fewer interruptions for refilling, which is perfect for small teams. Plus, the reliability feels solid—I don’t see this printer choking on high-volume tasks anytime soon.
Of course, it’s designed to use only HP chips and circuitry, which might limit some third-party cartridge options. Still, the high-yield 218X toner keeps costs down in the long run.
Overall, this printer strikes a great balance of speed, quality, and ease of use for busy offices needing vivid color output.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in 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 |
I finally got my hands on the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw after it had been on my wishlist for a while, and honestly, it didn’t disappoint. As soon as I unboxed it, I was impressed by its sleek, compact design that fits easily on my cluttered desk.
The 5-inch color touchscreen is a real game-changer. It’s intuitive and responsive, making navigation a breeze.
I particularly loved the Application Library, which lets me customize quick access to my most-used functions—saving me time every day.
Setup was surprisingly simple. I connected it wirelessly in just a few steps, and I could print directly from my phone using Apple AirPrint or the Canon PRINT app.
The print speeds are pretty impressive—up to 26 ppm in color or black and white. I didn’t have to wait long for my first print, which appeared in about 10 seconds.
The automatic document feeder is a time-saver, especially since it can handle duplex scanning and copying in one pass. The 250-sheet paper capacity means fewer refills, and the auto 2-sided printing really helps cut down on paper use.
Print quality? Crisp and vibrant, even on cheaper paper.
The high-capacity toner lasts long, so I don’t have to worry about frequent replacements. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, which is a bonus for my eco-conscious side.
Overall, this printer handles my home office needs effortlessly—fast, versatile, and easy to use. The only minor gripe?
It’s a bit bulky if space is tight, but the features more than make up for it.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner 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 | 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 |
Instead of the usual bulk of buttons and a cramped control panel, this Brother MFC-L3720CDW feels surprisingly sleek for a color laser printer. Its 3.5″ color touchscreen is a game changer—responsive, clear, and packed with shortcuts that make printing and scanning feel effortless.
What immediately stands out is its speed. You’ll notice the 19 pages per minute in action, even when printing high-quality color documents.
The laser quality is sharp, vibrant, and professional-looking, perfect for making your presentations pop or turning out marketing materials that really impress.
Connectivity is a breeze. Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB options give you plenty of ways to connect without fuss.
I tested it from multiple devices, and the seamless switching between them kept my workflow smooth, whether I was printing from my phone or laptop.
The 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray keep things moving without constant refills. Plus, automatic duplex printing saves paper and time.
It’s built for busy days when efficiency matters most.
The cloud integration is another highlight. With just a few taps, I accessed Google Drive and Dropbox directly from the touchscreen.
This smart feature really helps streamline document management, especially if you work remotely or with teams.
Mobile printing is straightforward through the companion app, making it easy to print, scan, and monitor toner levels remotely. It’s like having a mini control center in your pocket.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features into a compact package that handles most office tasks with ease. It’s a solid choice if you need vibrant, professional-looking color prints without sacrificing convenience.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, laser-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slight delay waking from sleep
- ✕ Smaller paper capacity
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Resolution | 600 x 2400 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing compatible |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
As soon as I pulled the Brother HL-L3280CDW out of the box, I was struck by its compact size and sleek design. The matte white finish with subtle accents makes it look modern without taking up too much space on my desk.
The 2.7″ touchscreen feels responsive and easy to navigate, which is a huge plus for quick tasks.
Setting it up took just a few minutes—connecting wirelessly was straightforward, and I appreciated the clear instructions. The printer feels solid and well-built, with a weight that’s manageable but sturdy.
The tray opens smoothly, and the paper feed is quiet yet reliable. I tested printing from my phone and laptop, and both connected seamlessly via Wi-Fi.
Printing speed is impressive—up to 27 pages per minute, which is perfect for my small office needs. The color output is vibrant and sharp, making my professional documents look polished.
The automatic duplex feature saves time and paper, especially during busy days. I also love that I can print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox through the touchscreen, which streamlines my workflow.
Overall, this printer delivers consistent, laser-quality prints in a compact package. It handles everyday office tasks with ease and has features that boost productivity.
The only minor downside is that it occasionally takes a moment to wake up from sleep mode, but that’s a small trade-off for the speed and quality you get.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant output
- ✕ Limited cartridge compatibility
- ✕ Firmware updates required
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be high for professional output) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Printer Technology | Color Laser |
| Toner Technology | Next-generation TerraJet toner for vivid colors |
Unlike most color laser printers I’ve handled, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw immediately impresses with its sleek, compact design that doesn’t sacrifice functionality. Its matte black finish and subtle curves make it feel more like a modern office gadget than a bulky machine from a tech warehouse.
What really stands out is how quickly it starts up. I was printing within minutes of unboxing, thanks to its straightforward setup and intuitive Wi-Fi connection process.
The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset kept the connection stable, even when my network got a little flaky, which is a huge plus for busy workdays.
The print speed of up to 26 pages per minute is solid. I tested it with several color documents, and the color vibrancy really caught my eye—thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner.
The auto duplex feature also made double-sided printing hassle-free, saving me time and paper.
Handling the input tray was a breeze, with space for 250 sheets. I appreciated the crisp, sharp text and vivid color reports, perfect for professional presentations.
Plus, the reliability was noticeable; it kept up with my workload without any jams or slowdowns, even during long printing sessions.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The requirement to use only HP chips or circuitry can be limiting, and periodic firmware updates might be a minor inconvenience.
Still, for everyday business use, this printer offers a reliable, fast, and vibrant printing experience that’s hard to beat.
What Makes a Colour Laser Printer Stand Out Among Others?
Durability is a hallmark of laser printers, which are engineered for heavy use and can withstand the rigors of frequent printing without the need for constant repairs or replacements.
Lastly, versatility is key in a colour laser printer’s appeal, as many models support a variety of printing materials and sizes, enabling users to engage in creative projects or print professional documents without being limited by their printer’s capabilities.
How Does Print Quality Affect Your Choice of a Colour Laser Printer?
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines the sharpness and detail of the printed images. A higher DPI results in finer detail and smoother gradients, making it ideal for printing high-quality photos and graphics.
- Color Accuracy: This refers to how closely the printed colors match the intended colors on the screen. Printers with better color accuracy can reproduce a wider range of colors and subtle shades, which is essential for professional-quality prints.
- Print Speed: While not directly a measure of print quality, the speed at which a printer operates can affect productivity and efficiency. Faster printers may sacrifice some quality for speed, so it’s important to find a balance that meets your needs without compromising on print quality.
- Paper Handling: The type of media that a printer can handle influences the quality of output. High-quality printers often support various paper types and weights, which can enhance print quality, especially for glossy or textured finishes.
- Image Processing Technology: Advanced image processing technologies improve print quality by enhancing details, reducing noise, and ensuring smoother color transitions. Printers with sophisticated algorithms can produce more polished and professional-looking prints.
In What Ways Does Print Speed Impact Your Printing Needs?
- Efficiency: A higher print speed allows for quicker completion of print jobs, which is crucial in busy environments like offices where time is of the essence. This means less waiting time for users and more time for other tasks, ultimately enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Productivity: Fast print speeds can dramatically increase productivity, especially for businesses that require large volumes of documents to be printed regularly. When a printer can churn out pages quickly, it minimizes downtime and allows employees to focus on their core responsibilities instead of waiting for prints.
- Cost-effectiveness: While high-speed printers may come with a higher initial investment, they can lead to long-term savings by reducing operational costs associated with labor and time. Faster printers can also minimize wear and tear, potentially leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
- Quality vs. Speed Trade-off: It’s important to balance print speed with print quality, as some printers may sacrifice clarity for faster output. In scenarios where high-quality color prints are essential, choosing a printer that maintains quality at a reasonable speed is crucial to meet professional standards.
- Volume Handling: If your printing needs involve high volumes, opting for a printer with a high print speed can help manage large tasks more effectively. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that frequently print marketing materials, reports, or presentations in color, as it allows them to meet tight deadlines without compromising on quality.
What Should You Know About the Lifespan of Toner Cartridges?
The lifespan of toner cartridges can vary based on several factors, including usage, storage, and environmental conditions.
- Page Yield: This refers to the number of pages a toner cartridge can print before it runs out. The page yield can differ significantly between cartridges, with standard yield cartridges printing around 1,000 pages, while high-yield cartridges can produce up to 5,000 pages or more.
- Storage Conditions: How toner cartridges are stored can greatly affect their lifespan. Cartridges should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these factors can degrade the toner and reduce its effectiveness.
- Printer Usage: The frequency and volume of printing can impact the lifespan of a toner cartridge. High-volume printing can deplete toner cartridges faster, while occasional use may extend their life, but it can also lead to issues like toner settling and clumping if the printer is not used regularly.
- Quality of Cartridge: The quality of the toner cartridge itself plays a crucial role in its longevity. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) cartridges often provide better performance and lifespan compared to third-party or remanufactured cartridges, which might not always meet the same standards.
- Environmental Factors: Humidity and temperature in the printing environment can affect toner performance. High humidity can cause toner to clump, while extremely low humidity can lead to static issues, both of which can result in print quality problems and may lead to premature cartridge depletion.
What Essential Features Should You Look for in a Colour Laser Printer?
When choosing the best colour laser printer, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and functionality.
- Print Quality: High print resolution is crucial for producing crisp and vibrant documents. Look for printers that offer at least 1200 x 1200 dpi, as this ensures the clarity of text and the richness of colours in images.
- Speed: Printer speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is important for efficiency, especially in a business setting. A good colour laser printer should ideally print at least 20 PPM for black and colour pages to keep up with demanding workloads.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers should have versatile connectivity features such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This allows for easy connection to multiple devices and supports mobile printing through apps and cloud services.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and the yield per cartridge when evaluating a printer’s overall expense. Printers that use high-yield cartridges may have a higher upfront cost but can significantly lower the cost per page in the long run.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing, or double-sided printing, can save paper and reduce costs. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses that frequently print multi-page documents.
- Paper Handling: Look for printers that have versatile paper handling options, including multiple input trays and the ability to handle different paper sizes and types. This flexibility allows for a wider range of printing tasks, from standard documents to labels and envelopes.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy Star rated printers consume less power, which is not only environmentally friendly but can also save on electricity bills. Features like sleep mode and low-power consumption during idle times contribute to overall energy efficiency.
- User-Friendly Interface: A clear, intuitive control panel or touchscreen interface can make it easier to navigate printer settings and tasks. Features like one-touch printing and customizable shortcuts can enhance the user experience.
How Do Different Connectivity Options Benefit Your Usage?
Different connectivity options enhance the usability and flexibility of the best colour laser printers, catering to various user needs.
- USB Connectivity: Many laser printers offer USB connections for direct linking to a computer. This option is ideal for single-user environments, providing a stable and fast connection for printing documents without the need for a network setup.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Wi-Fi-enabled printers allow for wireless printing from multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This feature is particularly useful in home and office settings where users can print from anywhere without being tethered to a physical connection.
- Ethernet Connectivity: Ethernet connections provide a reliable wired network option, making them suitable for office environments with multiple users. This setup ensures faster data transfer rates and a secure connection, which is essential for larger printing jobs or sensitive documents.
- Mobile Printing: Many modern laser printers support mobile printing options like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print. This functionality allows users to print directly from their mobile devices, enhancing convenience and accessibility for on-the-go printing needs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Bluetooth-enabled printers allow for easy connection with smartphones and tablets without the need for a Wi-Fi network. This feature is advantageous for users who want to print documents quickly and without complicated setups, especially in remote locations.
Why is Compact Design Important in a Colour Laser Printer?
Furthermore, a compact colour laser printer can reduce operational costs for businesses by minimizing the amount of space required for equipment, which can lead to lower overhead costs. This is particularly significant in urban areas where real estate is expensive, and businesses seek ways to optimize their operational efficiency. By integrating compact design with advanced printing technologies, manufacturers ensure that users do not have to compromise on print quality or speed, solidifying the appeal of these devices in competitive markets.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Colour Laser Printer for Your Home or Office?
Using a colour laser printer for your home or office offers several advantages that enhance productivity and print quality.
- High-Quality Prints: Colour laser printers produce sharp and vibrant images with crisp text, making them ideal for professional documents and marketing materials.
- Fast Printing Speeds: These printers can print multiple pages per minute, significantly reducing waiting times compared to inkjet printers, which is beneficial in a busy office setting.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment may be higher, colour laser printers are more economical in the long run because they have a lower cost per page, especially for high-volume printing.
- Durability and Longevity: Prints from laser printers are resistant to smudging and fading, ensuring that documents maintain their quality over time, which is particularly important for archival purposes.
- Less Maintenance: Colour laser printers generally require less maintenance than inkjet printers, as they do not have ink cartridges that can dry out, leading to fewer interruptions in productivity.
- Versatile Media Handling: Many colour laser printers can handle a variety of paper types and sizes, allowing for versatile printing options, from standard documents to brochures and business cards.
- Environmentally Friendly: Laser printers use toner, which is often more environmentally friendly than ink, as toner cartridges can be recycled, and they produce less waste overall.
How Can a Colour Laser Printer Improve Your Workflow Efficiency?
A colour laser printer can significantly enhance workflow efficiency through various features and capabilities.
- High-Speed Printing: Colour laser printers are designed to print documents quickly, often exceeding 20 pages per minute. This speed is particularly beneficial in high-demand environments where time is of the essence, allowing users to complete tasks rapidly without long wait times.
- Professional Quality Output: These printers produce sharp, vibrant colors and high-resolution graphics suitable for professional documents and marketing materials. The quality ensures that printed materials leave a lasting impression, reducing the need for reprints and saving time and resources.
- Low Cost Per Page: Although the initial investment may be higher, colour laser printers offer a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, especially for high-volume printing. This cost-effectiveness translates into savings over time, allowing businesses to allocate resources more efficiently.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Many colour laser printers come equipped with duplex printing capabilities, which allow for automatic double-sided printing. This feature not only saves paper but also streamlines the printing process, reducing manual intervention and increasing productivity.
- Versatile Media Handling: Colour laser printers can handle a variety of media types and sizes, including envelopes, labels, and cardstock. This versatility allows users to print a wide range of materials without needing multiple printers, simplifying workflows and minimizing equipment needs.
- Remote Printing Capabilities: Modern colour laser printers often come with wireless and mobile printing options, enabling users to print from smartphones and tablets. This convenience fosters greater flexibility in the workplace, allowing employees to print from anywhere, thus enhancing overall workflow efficiency.
- Minimal Maintenance: Colour laser printers generally require less maintenance and have fewer issues compared to inkjet printers, which often need regular cleaning and ink replacement. Reduced downtime due to maintenance means that businesses can focus on their core operations without interruptions.
What Are Some Highly Recommended Colour Laser Printers in the Market?
Some of the best colour laser printers in the market include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer is known for its speed and efficiency, offering up to 28 pages per minute. It features advanced security options and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that require high-quality color printing.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: A versatile all-in-one printer that provides excellent print quality and a variety of features including mobile printing and scanning capabilities. It offers a large touchscreen display and supports various paper sizes, making it ideal for diverse office needs.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This printer stands out for its compact design and reliable performance, with fast print speeds of up to 25 pages per minute. It includes features such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a robust paper handling capacity, making it a great choice for busy work environments.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for vivid colour output and a fast printing speed of up to 30 pages per minute, this printer is designed for small businesses. It offers a range of connectivity options and a high monthly duty cycle, ensuring it can handle large print volumes efficiently.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This budget-friendly option provides solid performance with print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute. It’s compact, energy-efficient, and offers automatic duplex printing, making it a great choice for small offices looking for an economical yet reliable colour laser printer.
What Factors Make These Printers the Best Choice for Users?
The best colour laser printers are characterized by several key factors that enhance their usability and performance.
- Print Quality: High-resolution output is crucial for vibrant and sharp color prints, making it ideal for professionals who require detailed graphics and images. Printers that offer resolutions of 1200 dpi or more are generally preferred for producing high-quality documents.
- Speed: The printing speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is an important factor for users who need to produce large volumes of prints quickly. A printer that can deliver 20 PPM or more is often considered efficient for office environments where time is of the essence.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The total cost of ownership, including initial purchase price, toner costs, and maintenance, significantly impacts the choice of printer. Printers that offer high-yield toner cartridges can reduce printing costs over time, making them a more economical option for users.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers come with various connectivity features, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. This flexibility allows users to easily connect and print from multiple devices, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones, enhancing their convenience.
- Durability and Reliability: A robust printer designed for heavy use is essential for businesses that require consistent performance. Printers that have a higher monthly duty cycle can handle more printing without frequent breakdowns, ensuring reliability in high-demand settings.
- User-Friendly Features: Features such as touchscreen displays, easy-to-navigate menus, and mobile printing apps enhance user experience. Printers that offer these intuitive features can streamline the printing process, making it accessible even for less tech-savvy users.