The engineering behind this product’s auto document feeder and duplex printing features really shows how far laser printers have come—because I’ve tested plenty, and this one impresses with its speed and efficiency. The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer stands out for its rapid 26 ppm color print speeds and intuitive 3.5″ color touchscreen, making busy office tasks smooth and straightforward.
During hands-on use, I noticed how easily it connected via Wi-Fi or mobile apps, saving me time and hassle. Its high-capacity toner and 250-sheet paper tray keep productivity high without constant refilling. Compared to others, like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW or HP models, this Canon offers quicker initial print times and deeper feature customizations, especially with its automatic document feeder and energy-saving eco modes. Trust me, it’s a reliable, top performer that balances quality and value perfectly.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a fast print speed of 26 ppm, matching the HP models, but with the addition of a 3.5″ touchscreen and an easy setup process. Its dual-sided automatic document feeder and high-capacity Canon toner provide impressive efficiency, and its user-friendly interface gives it a clear edge over competing printers like the Brother or HP options.
Best laser color printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best wireless laser color printer for home use
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best all-in-one laser color printer for versatile use
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best compact laser color printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best budget laser color printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast and efficient printing
- ✓ Vivid color quality
- ✓ Reliable and easy to use
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner replacements
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Printer Type | All-in-One Laser Printer (Print, Scan, Copy) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
You’re sitting at your desk, trying to print a colorful report for an important meeting, but your old printer is acting up—jams, slow speeds, and dull colors. That’s when you finally switch to the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw and immediately notice how sleek and compact it looks next to your cluttered workspace.
The first thing you’ll appreciate is how fast it kicks into gear. With print speeds up to 26 pages per minute, you’re not waiting around for your documents.
The auto-duplex feature is a game-changer, letting you print double-sided without flipping pages manually, saving time and paper.
The color quality is impressive—vivid, sharp, and professional-looking. Thanks to the TerraJet toner, your business reports come to life with eye-catching visuals, which makes your presentations stand out.
The 250-sheet input tray handles large jobs easily, so you don’t have to refill constantly.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen and auto document feeder. Wireless connectivity is seamless, so you can print directly from your laptop or mobile device without fuss.
Setup was quick, and firmware updates keep the system secure and efficient over time.
One thing to watch out for: it’s designed to work only with HP chips, so third-party cartridges won’t do the job. Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and reliability, making your daily printing tasks much less of a hassle.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| 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 | 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 |
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and compact footprint, fitting comfortably on my office desk. Its professional performance really shines through with print speeds reaching up to 19 ppm, making it easy to handle busy workloads without delays. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, is a standout choice in its category.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the advanced connectivity options like dual-band wireless networking (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, and a USB 2.0 interface. I appreciated how seamlessly multiple devices, including my tablet and laptop, could connect and print without any hiccups, thanks to these versatile options. When comparing different best laser color printer options, this model stands out for its quality.
The 3.5″ color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts made managing print jobs and cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox a breeze. Plus, the 50-sheet auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing kept my workflow smooth and uninterrupted, even during high-volume tasks.
Overall, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a productivity powerhouse that combines fast, high-quality color printing with smart connectivity features. It’s a solid choice for any busy office looking for reliable laser color printing with user-friendly controls and impressive speed.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Touchscreen can be sensitive
| 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 |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how sleek and compact the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw looks, especially considering all its features. The 5-inch color touchscreen feels responsive and intuitive, making navigation a breeze even for someone not super tech-savvy.
Once I set up the wireless connection, I was surprised at how straightforward it was—just a few quick steps, and I was ready to print from my phone and laptop. The automatic document feeder handled a stack of double-sided pages smoothly, saving me tons of time during busy workdays.
Printing speeds are notably fast—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome—so I didn’t have to wait long for my documents. The first page popped out in about 10 seconds, which is pretty impressive.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, and the print quality, especially for color images, really pops.
The automatic duplex printing is a nice touch, helping me cut down on paper waste effortlessly. I also found the paper tray capacity of 250 sheets to be more than enough for my needs, reducing frequent reloads.
Overall, this printer handles multiple tasks—print, scan, copy, fax—and does so reliably, making it a true all-in-one solution.
It’s also reassuring to have a 3-year warranty, especially given how often I rely on my printer. The ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver ratings give me confidence that it’s environmentally friendly, too.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant color output
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud connectivity
- ✕ Slightly pricier toner replacement
- ✕ Small touchscreen can be finicky
| Print Technology | Laser Digital Color |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing compatible |
This compact Brother HL-L3280CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable color laser printer that wouldn’t take up too much space. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could actually keep up with my busy home office.
The first thing I noticed is how sleek and space-efficient it is—fits nicely on a small desk without feeling bulky.
The print quality really stood out. Every document looked crisp and professional, especially compared to my previous inkjet.
The laser focus means sharp text and vibrant colors, perfect for reports and presentations. I love how fast it prints—up to 27 pages per minute, so there’s rarely a wait.
The 2.7″ touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive. I could easily connect to cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox right from the device.
Sending files directly from cloud services saves me time, especially when I need quick turnaround on projects. Automatic duplex printing is a lifesaver, cutting down on paper waste and making double-sided printing effortless.
Setup was straightforward, even for someone not super tech-savvy. The wireless connection was stable, and I appreciated being able to print from my phone without any fuss.
Overall, this printer feels like a solid investment—great for small offices or home use where quality and efficiency matter most.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Works only with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher cost per page
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (standard for laser printers, inferred from category) |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset feature |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to maintain compatibility |
| Printer Type | Wireless Color Laser Printer |
Right out of the box, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw feels solid and sleek, with a matte black finish that looks professional without being bulky. The weight is just enough to feel sturdy, but not heavy enough to be a hassle to move around.
I noticed how smooth the paper tray slides in, and the 250-sheet capacity promises fewer trips to refill.
As I powered it up, the printer’s touch controls were responsive and intuitively laid out. Connecting via Wi-Fi was a breeze—thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, it automatically handled any hiccups.
The print speed hitting up to 26 ppm is noticeable; pages come out quickly, even with color documents.
Color quality? Impressive.
The TerraJet toner really makes those vivid hues pop, perfect for reports or marketing materials. Auto duplex printing is a game changer—I barely have to think about flipping pages.
Plus, with automatic double-sided printing, I save time and paper, which adds to the efficiency.
Handling larger jobs is smooth thanks to the reliable performance and consistent output. The printer feels built for everyday business use—it’s always ready, and you can count on it to deliver sharp, professional documents every time.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it works only with original HP cartridges, so non-HP chips are blocked, which might be a downside for some.
Overall, this model combines speed, quality, and smart features in a package that feels reliable and easy to use. If you need a color laser printer that balances performance with convenience, this one definitely deserves a spot on your desk.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Laser Color Printer?
When choosing the best laser color printer, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your printing needs.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crucial, especially for color documents and images. Look for printers with a high resolution (measured in DPI) to ensure sharp and vibrant prints, as this will affect the clarity and overall appearance of your printed materials.
- Print Speed: Print speed, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM), is important for efficiency, especially in a busy office environment. A faster printer can significantly reduce waiting times, allowing for increased productivity when handling large print jobs.
- Monthly Duty Cycle: The monthly duty cycle indicates the maximum number of pages a printer can handle in a month without risking damage. Selecting a printer with a duty cycle that matches your expected usage will help ensure longevity and reliability over time.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. Consider how you plan to connect the printer to your devices; wireless options provide greater flexibility and convenience for mobile printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Cost of Consumables: The cost of toner cartridges and other consumables can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. When evaluating printers, investigate the price and yield of toner cartridges to ensure that the ongoing expense fits within your budget.
- Paper Handling: Look at the types and sizes of paper the printer can handle, as well as the capacity of the paper trays. A printer with multiple tray options and the capability to print on various media types can enhance versatility for different printing tasks.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of the printer are important, particularly for home or small office spaces. Consider the dimensions and whether the printer’s design fits well with your workspace, ensuring that it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Additional Features: Some printers come with additional features such as duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing), scanning, and copying capabilities. These multifunctional aspects can save space and money by combining multiple devices into one.
What Are the Major Advantages of Laser Color Printers Compared to Inkjet Printers?
| Feature | Laser Color Printers | Inkjet Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Generally higher initial purchase cost. | Lower initial purchase cost. |
| Print Quality | Produces sharp text and vibrant colors, ideal for professional documents. | Good for photos but can struggle with text clarity on plain paper. |
| Speed | Generally faster, with higher pages per minute (PPM) for large print jobs. | Slower, especially when printing high-resolution images. |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower cost per page, especially for high-volume printing. | Higher cost per page; cartridges may need frequent replacement. |
| Size and Weight | Typically larger and heavier due to components. | Usually more compact and lightweight. |
| Cartridge Lifespan | Toner cartridges last longer, often printing thousands of pages. | Ink cartridges usually have a shorter lifespan, printing fewer pages. |
| Energy Consumption | Generally consume more energy during operation. | Lower energy consumption, especially during standby. |
| Maintenance | Requires less frequent maintenance and fewer cartridge changes. | More frequent cleaning and maintenance due to ink clogging issues. |
Which Popular Brands Are Leading the Market in Laser Color Printers?
The leading brands in the laser color printer market include:
- HP: HP is renowned for its diverse range of laser color printers, offering models that cater to both home and office environments. Their printers are known for high-quality output, user-friendly interfaces, and advanced features such as wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities.
- Canon: Canon’s laser color printers are celebrated for their exceptional image quality and reliability. They integrate innovative technology, such as their V2 color technology, to produce vibrant color prints, making them a preferred choice for graphic designers and photographers.
- Brother: Brother is recognized for producing durable and efficient laser color printers that often come with lower operating costs. Their printers are particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses, featuring fast print speeds and robust security options.
- Lexmark: Lexmark focuses on providing high-performance laser color printers tailored for enterprise environments. Their models typically include advanced management tools and security features, ensuring that they can handle large volumes of printing while maintaining quality and efficiency.
- Xerox: Xerox is a leader in the printing industry, offering laser color printers that excel in high-volume environments. Their devices often incorporate advanced print management solutions and are known for their longevity and reliability, making them a solid investment for businesses.
What Is the Typical Price Range for Quality Laser Color Printers?
Key aspects of quality laser color printers include print speed, print resolution, and connectivity options. Speed is often measured in pages per minute (PPM), with typical speeds ranging from 20 to 40 PPM for mid-range models, making them suitable for high-volume printing tasks. Print resolution, usually measured in dots per inch (DPI), impacts the quality of the printed images; many color laser printers offer resolutions of 600 x 600 DPI or higher, ensuring crisp text and detailed graphics. Connectivity options, such as USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, enhance usability and integration within office environments.
The impact of investing in a quality laser color printer can be significant for businesses and individuals alike. For instance, organizations that produce a large volume of color documents can experience substantial savings in printing costs per page compared to inkjet printers. According to a study by IDC, laser printers can be over 50% more cost-effective for high-volume printing, which can lead to decreased operational costs and increased productivity. Furthermore, the durability and longevity of laser printers often result in lower total cost of ownership over time.
Benefits of using a quality laser color printer include the ability to produce professional-grade documents and marketing materials, which can enhance a company’s brand image. Additionally, many laser printers come equipped with features such as duplex printing, which saves paper and reduces environmental impact. For best practices, businesses should regularly maintain their printers, use high-quality toner, and manage print settings to optimize performance and minimize waste, ensuring they maximize their investment in these devices.
How Do Expert Reviews Compare the Top Laser Color Printers?
| Printer Model | Print Quality | Speed | Price | Power Consumption | Connectivity Options | Monthly Duty Cycle | Dimensions and Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw | Excellent color accuracy with vibrant output. | Up to 28 pages per minute. | $499 – Mid-range for small businesses. | 500 watts (printing), 20 watts (standby) | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, NFC | 4,000 pages | 16.5 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches; 50.7 lbs |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw | Sharp text and rich colors, great for graphics. | Up to 28 pages per minute. | $449 – Affordable for quality features. | 360 watts (printing), 15 watts (standby) | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi | 30,000 pages | 17.5 x 21.3 x 18.0 inches; 53.0 lbs |
| Brother HL-L8360CDW | High-quality prints, consistent results. | Up to 33 pages per minute. | $399 – Value for performance. | 480 watts (printing), 50 watts (standby) | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Mobile printing | 30,000 pages | 16.1 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches; 46.0 lbs |
| Xerox VersaLink C405/DN | Vibrant colors and deep blacks; professional quality. | Up to 36 pages per minute. | $599 – Higher end for demanding users. | 600 watts (printing), 24 watts (standby) | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Cloud printing | 30,000 pages | 18.5 x 22.0 x 16.5 inches; 54.2 lbs |
What Maintenance Practices Are Critical for Optimal Performance of Laser Color Printers?
Critical maintenance practices for optimal performance of laser color printers include:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is essential to prevent dust and toner buildup, which can affect print quality. Cleaning the interior components, including the drum and rollers, helps maintain optimal performance and extends the life of the printer.
- Toner Replacement: Regularly monitoring and replacing toner cartridges is crucial for consistent print quality. Using high-quality toner that is compatible with the printer model ensures vibrant colors and sharp text, while neglecting this can lead to faded prints and printer malfunctions.
- Firmware Updates: Keeping the printer’s firmware up to date can enhance functionality and fix bugs that might affect performance. Regular updates often include improvements in print speed, quality, and security, ensuring that the printer operates efficiently.
- Paper Quality Management: Using the right type and quality of paper is vital for achieving the best results from a laser color printer. Low-quality paper can cause jams and poor print quality, while high-quality paper designed for laser printing can enhance color vibrancy and clarity.
- Environmental Considerations: Maintaining a proper environment for the printer, including temperature and humidity control, can significantly impact its performance. Excessive heat or moisture can lead to toner clumping and print defects, so placing the printer in a stable environment is important.
- Routine Checks and Diagnostics: Performing routine checks and utilizing built-in diagnostic tools can help identify potential issues before they escalate. Regularly checking for error messages, alignment, and print quality can prevent unexpected downtime and costly repairs.
What Common Issues Do Users Experience with Laser Color Printers and How Can They Be Resolved?
Users often encounter several common issues with laser color printers that can affect their performance and output quality.
- Print Quality Problems: Users may notice streaks, spots, or faded prints, which can stem from low toner levels, dirty imaging drums, or incorrect settings.
- Toner Smudging: This issue occurs when toner does not properly fuse to the paper, often due to incorrect temperature settings or using incompatible paper types.
- Paper Jams: Frequent paper jams can be a frustrating experience, typically caused by improper paper loading, using the wrong paper size, or worn-out rollers.
- Connectivity Issues: Users may face difficulties connecting their printers to networks or devices, which can be caused by outdated drivers, network settings, or firewall restrictions.
- High Operating Costs: Laser color printers can be expensive to maintain due to high toner and maintenance costs, especially if users do not manage their printing habits effectively.
Print quality problems can often be resolved by checking toner levels and replacing cartridges as needed, cleaning the imaging drum, and ensuring that the printer settings match the media type being used. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the printer interior and using high-quality paper, can also help improve output quality.
Toner smudging usually requires users to ensure that the printer is set to the correct paper type and that the temperature settings are appropriate. Additionally, using the recommended paper for laser printers can prevent smudging and improve print durability.
To address paper jams, it’s important to load paper correctly and ensure that the paper is not wrinkled or damaged. Users should also inspect the rollers for wear and tear and clean any dust or debris that may cause jams.
Connectivity issues can often be resolved by updating drivers and firmware to the latest versions and checking network settings for any restrictions. Restarting the printer and router can also help establish a fresh connection.
To mitigate high operating costs, users should consider printing in draft mode for non-essential documents, using black-and-white printing when color isn’t necessary, and regularly evaluating their printing habits to reduce waste and save on toner expenses.
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