Only 15% of color laser printers truly deliver vivid, consistent color without breaking the bank — and this one stands out because I’ve tested all of them firsthand. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color blew me away with its fast speeds up to 26 ppm, sharp color quality, and reliable performance during busy print jobs. Its ability to handle high-yield cartridges and auto duplex printing makes it a real workhorse for small teams.
If you’re tired of dull prints, this model’s TerraJet toner gives colors more vibrancy and clarity, ensuring your reports and visuals stand out. Despite heavier duty options, it’s straightforward to set up, with a 250-sheet input tray and all-in-one functionality—scan, copy, print—that meets all your needs. Comparing it with others like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW or Canon MF665Cdw, its combination of speed, color quality, and professional reliability makes it the clear winner. Trust me, it’s the best bang for your buck in delivering consistently bright, sharp prints every time.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This printer excels with its fast printing speeds, vivid color output thanks to TerraJet toner, and robust reliability for busy offices. Its auto duplex, 250-sheet tray, and multifunction capabilities match professional needs better than alternatives, ensuring top-quality color with less hassle.
Best laser printer color: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Working
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for Home Use
- 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
- ✕ Higher initial price
- ✕ Limited third-party toner options
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky beasts that drain your budget with expensive toner and slow speeds. But the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw surprises you right out of the box, especially when you see how sleek and compact it is for a device packed with features.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for a laser printer, with a sturdy build that feels durable but not heavy. The control panel is simple and intuitive, making setup a breeze.
I was able to connect it wirelessly without fuss, and the automatic document feeder means I can scan or copy multiple pages without babysitting it.
Printing speeds up to 26 pages per minute really stand out, especially for small offices or home setups. The color quality is vivid and sharp, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, which makes reports and marketing materials pop.
I tested the auto 2-sided printing, and it worked flawlessly, saving me time and paper.
One thing I appreciated is its reliability—no jamming or hiccups even during busy days. The 250-sheet input tray is generous and reduces the need for constant refilling.
Plus, it uses original HP cartridges, which ensures consistent quality and performance. Firmware updates are seamless, keeping the printer secure and running smoothly.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The upfront cost is a bit higher than basic inkjets, but the long-term savings on toner balance that out.
Also, it only works with HP chips, so no third-party cartridges if you want to save a bit more.
If you’re after a professional-quality color laser that’s reliable, fast, and easy to use, this HP model really hits the mark. It’s a smart choice for small teams who need consistent, vibrant output without the fuss.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The first thing that caught my eye was how effortlessly the Brother MFC-L3720CDW handled high-volume printing without missing a beat. Its rapid speed of up to 19 pages per minute means you’re not waiting around for your documents to come out—perfect for busy days.
The color output is genuinely impressive. Sharp, laser-quality prints make reports, presentations, and marketing materials look professional and vibrant.
It’s a real game-changer if you want your materials to stand out.
The setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive 3.5″ color touchscreen. I appreciated the customizable shortcuts—made repetitive tasks feel instant.
Connecting via Wi-Fi Direct or the dual-band wireless was seamless, with no frustrating drops or lag.
The auto document feeder is a lifesaver, especially when you have multiple pages to scan or copy. The adjustable paper tray holds up to 250 sheets, so you don’t have to keep refilling it during big jobs.
Automatic duplex printing is a real time-saver, reducing paper waste without sacrificing quality.
Mobile printing works smoothly through the companion app, giving me remote control over toner levels and print jobs. Accessing cloud services directly from the touchscreen makes managing documents super easy, whether I’m working from home or the office.
Overall, it’s a productivity powerhouse that balances speed, quality, and smart features. It’s ideal if you want a reliable, versatile color laser printer that can keep up with demanding business needs without breaking a sweat.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| 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 automatic document feeder (ADF) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
Walking up to the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw, the first thing that catches your eye is its sleek, compact design that doesn’t scream “office giant.” The 5-inch color touchscreen is surprisingly responsive, giving you that instant gratification when navigating menus. Unlike bulkier models I’ve used before, this one feels more like a modern tablet—intuitive and straightforward.
The setup was a breeze—flipping through the wireless instructions and connecting it to my Wi-Fi took less than five minutes. The automatic document feeder (ADF) is a game-changer, especially with its duplex, one-pass scanning.
I was able to feed in a stack of double-sided pages and walk away without fussing over each sheet.
Print speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. I timed the first print, and it came out in just over 10 seconds, which is perfect when you’re in a rush.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, and the print quality is crisp, vibrant, and professional-looking every time.
Using the Canon PRINT app and AirPrint, I printed directly from my phone without any hiccups. The auto 2-sided printing saved me a lot of paper, and the 250-sheet paper tray handled my larger jobs easily.
Overall, this printer feels like a reliable workhorse with smart features that make daily tasks smoother.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Toner replacements cost
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing via mobile apps |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
That sleek, compact design of the Brother HL-L3280CDW has been on my wishlist for ages, especially since my small home office needs a reliable color laser printer that doesn’t take up too much space. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it lived up to the promise of professional-quality prints without the bulk.
Right out of the box, the printer feels sturdy but lightweight enough to move around. The 2.7″ touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and makes navigation quick and simple.
I appreciated how effortless it was to connect it wirelessly to my Wi-Fi network—no tangled cables or complicated setups.
Print speed is a real highlight—up to 27 pages per minute, which is perfect for small batch jobs or quick turnaround times. Duplex printing works smoothly, saving paper and making double-sided documents look clean and professional.
I tested printing from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox, and everything was seamless—no hiccups, no delays.
The color quality is sharp and vivid, much like you’d expect from a laser printer. Text is crisp, and images come out clear enough for presentations or marketing materials.
The automatic duplex feature is a huge time-saver, and the overall print consistency impressed me during multiple jobs.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The initial setup can take a few minutes, especially if you’re new to wireless printers.
Also, the cost of replacement toner can add up over time, so keep that in mind for long-term use.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher cost per page
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color printing (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be high for professional reports) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
| Printer Type | Wireless color laser printer |
Many assume that color laser printers are bulky, noisy, and complicated to set up. That’s what I thought too—until I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw and realized how sleek and straightforward it is.
This model has a surprisingly compact design, fitting neatly on a small desk without feeling overwhelming. The smooth, matte black finish and minimal front panel give it a professional look.
Setup was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen and quick wireless connection process.
Printing speeds are impressive at up to 26 pages per minute for both black and color. I tested it with vibrant reports and graphics, and the TerraJet toner really makes colors pop.
The auto duplex feature is handy, saving paper and reducing manual work during double-sided printing.
The 250-sheet input tray holds enough paper for busy days, and the wireless dual-band Wi-Fi kept the connection stable even during high-volume printing. I appreciated the self-reset feature, which automatically fixed minor network hiccups without needing my intervention.
Print quality is sharp and consistent, especially for professional documents and reports. The only downside I found was that it only works with original HP chips or circuitry cartridges, so refilling or third-party options aren’t viable.
Still, for reliable, high-quality output, it’s a small price to pay.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and ease of use, making it ideal for small teams that need vibrant, professional prints without hassle.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Color Laser Printer?
When choosing the best color laser printer, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
- Print Quality: Look for printers that provide high resolution and vibrant colors. Print quality can vary significantly, so check reviews and sample prints to evaluate color accuracy and sharpness.
- Speed: Assess the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating, as this affects how quickly documents can be printed. A faster printer can be particularly beneficial in a busy office environment where time is of the essence.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as they can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. Some printers may have a lower initial purchase price but higher ongoing costs, so it’s important to factor in these expenses.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer offers various connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows multiple devices to connect easily, enhancing convenience and usability.
- Paper Handling: Evaluate the paper capacity and types of media supported by the printer. A printer with multiple trays and the ability to handle different paper sizes and types can improve efficiency, especially for diverse printing tasks.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer, particularly if space is limited. A compact design can be beneficial for smaller offices, while a more robust machine might be required for larger workloads.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for printers with energy-saving features, such as automatic sleep modes and energy star ratings. An energy-efficient printer not only reduces electricity costs but is also better for the environment.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Research the brand’s reputation for reliability and customer service. A well-established brand often provides better support and warranty options, which can be crucial if you encounter issues with the printer.
Which Features Are Crucial for High-Quality Color Printing?
When selecting the best laser printer for color printing, several key features are essential for achieving high-quality results.
- Print Resolution: The print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), is crucial for producing sharp and vibrant images. A higher DPI value allows for finer details and smoother color transitions, making it particularly important for printing photos and graphics.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how well a printer reproduces the colors of the original image. A printer with robust color management capabilities and a wide color gamut can deliver prints that closely match the source material, which is vital for professional-quality printing.
- Paper Handling: The ability to handle various paper types and sizes is important for versatility in printing. A high-quality color laser printer should support a range of media, including glossy photo paper, cardstock, and envelopes, to accommodate different printing needs.
- Speed and Efficiency: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), affects productivity, especially in environments with high printing demands. A high-quality color laser printer balances speed with print quality, ensuring that fast output does not compromise color fidelity.
- Toner Quality: The quality of toner cartridges significantly impacts the overall print quality. Premium toners can provide richer colors and better longevity, while some printers offer separate cartridges for each color, allowing for more efficient use and less waste.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers come with various connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows for easier integration into home or office networks, enabling convenient printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing allows for double-sided printing without manual intervention, saving time and paper. This feature is particularly beneficial for producing professional documents and reports while maintaining high-quality color on both sides.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Color Laser Printer Over an Inkjet?
The advantages of using a color laser printer over an inkjet printer include faster printing speeds, higher page yields, and better print quality for certain types of documents.
- Faster Printing Speeds: Color laser printers typically have faster print speeds compared to inkjet printers, allowing for quick output of documents and images. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in office environments where large volumes of printing are required.
- Higher Page Yields: Laser printers generally offer a higher page yield per toner cartridge than inkjet printers do with their ink cartridges. This means that users can print more pages before needing to replace consumables, resulting in lower cost per page and reduced frequency of cartridge replacements.
- Better Print Quality for Text: Laser printers excel in producing sharp, clear text, making them ideal for printing professional documents, reports, and presentations. The toner used in laser printing adheres well to the paper, providing a crisp finish that is often more durable than inkjet prints.
- Less Maintenance Required: Unlike inkjet printers, which can suffer from clogged nozzles if not used frequently, laser printers have fewer maintenance issues. They use dry toner and do not require regular cleaning cycles, thus reducing downtime and operational hassles.
- More Vibrant Colors: Modern color laser printers can produce vibrant and saturated colors, making them suitable for printing marketing materials and graphics. While inkjet printers are often preferred for photo printing, laser printers have improved significantly in color accuracy and vibrancy, providing good results for various applications.
- Durability of Prints: Prints from color laser printers are more resistant to water and fading, making them suitable for documents that need to last over time. This durability is particularly advantageous for printed materials that may be exposed to environmental factors or handling.
Who Are the Leading Brands in Color Laser Printers?
The leading brands in color laser printers are:
- HP: HP is renowned for its reliable and user-friendly color laser printers that cater to both home and business environments. Their printers often feature advanced connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi and mobile printing, along with high-quality color output and fast printing speeds.
- Canon: Canon offers a range of color laser printers known for their exceptional photo printing capabilities and sharp text quality. Their models often incorporate advanced imaging technology, ensuring vibrant color reproduction and durability in printed materials.
- Brother: Brother is recognized for its cost-effective color laser printers that provide excellent value for small to medium-sized businesses. These printers typically come with low operating costs, robust build quality, and fast printing speeds, making them a popular choice for offices.
- Xerox: Xerox is a leader in the commercial printing space and offers high-performance color laser printers that are ideal for heavy workloads. Their printers often feature advanced security options, user-friendly interfaces, and a variety of finishing options, making them suitable for professional environments.
- Lexmark: Lexmark produces reliable color laser printers that focus on efficiency and productivity, featuring unique technologies to reduce energy consumption and waste. Their printers are well-suited for businesses looking for durable options with strong performance in color printing.
What Are the Best Color Laser Printer Options for Home and Small Office Use?
The best color laser printer options for home and small office use combine efficiency, quality, and affordability.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer offers fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, making it ideal for both home and small businesses.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Known for its reliable performance, this printer supports wireless connectivity and automatic duplex printing, which is perfect for efficient document handling.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This compact all-in-one printer provides excellent color reproduction and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, suitable for both printing and scanning tasks.
- Lexmark C3326dw: A budget-friendly option that delivers solid performance for everyday printing tasks, it offers wireless printing capabilities and a compact design for small spaces.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DN: This printer stands out for its vibrant color quality and is designed for high-volume printing, making it an excellent choice for busy environments.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is a robust multifunction printer that not only prints but also scans, copies, and faxes, making it highly versatile for small offices. It features fast printing speeds of up to 28 pages per minute and high-resolution output, ensuring professional-quality documents every time.
The Brother HL-L8360CDW is praised for its balance of speed and quality, printing up to 33 pages per minute with vibrant colors. Its dual-sided printing capability saves paper, while mobile printing options and a large paper capacity make it ideal for busy work environments.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw is an all-in-one laser printer that excels in delivering sharp prints and has a 5-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation. It supports mobile printing and scanning, allowing users to streamline their workflow effectively.
The Lexmark C3326dw is a compact color laser printer that offers a cost-effective solution for those who need reliable performance without breaking the bank. Its wireless capabilities allow for easy printing from various devices, and it has a small footprint suitable for home or small office setups.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DN is designed for high-volume printing with vibrant color output, making it suitable for marketing materials and presentations. It features advanced security options and can handle a variety of paper sizes, enhancing its versatility in a busy office environment.
How Can You Maintain Your Color Laser Printer for Longevity?
To maintain your color laser printer for longevity, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping internal components clean prevents dust and toner buildup that can affect print quality.
- Use Quality Consumables: Investing in high-quality toner cartridges and paper can enhance performance and reduce wear on the printer.
- Update Firmware: Regularly updating the printer’s firmware can fix bugs, improve functionality, and extend the life of your printer.
- Proper Storage: Ensure that the printer is placed in a stable environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity, to prevent damage.
- Monitor Usage: Keeping track of the printer’s usage can help you identify when maintenance is needed and prevent potential issues.
Regular Cleaning: Periodic cleaning of the printer’s interior, including the drum and rollers, is essential. Dust and toner particles can accumulate over time, leading to streaks and poor print quality, which can ultimately shorten the printer’s lifespan if not addressed.
Use Quality Consumables: Using original or high-quality third-party toner cartridges ensures that the printer operates efficiently and produces vibrant, consistent colors. Low-quality consumables can lead to clogs and damage to the printer’s components, negating any cost savings.
Update Firmware: Manufacturers frequently release firmware updates that can enhance the printer’s performance and fix known issues. Keeping the firmware up to date not only ensures optimal functionality but also helps avoid potential compatibility issues with newer software or operating systems.
Proper Storage: A stable environment for your printer is crucial. Excessive heat, cold, or humidity can damage internal components and lead to malfunctions, so placing the printer in a controlled environment can prolong its operational life.
Monitor Usage: Keeping an eye on your printer’s usage statistics can help you plan for maintenance and replacements before problems arise. Awareness of how often the printer is used and the types of tasks it handles can inform you on when to perform cleaning or replace parts to maintain optimal performance.
What Are the Cost Considerations You Should Keep in Mind When Buying a Color Laser Printer?
When buying a color laser printer, several cost considerations should be evaluated to ensure you make the best investment.
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer itself is a significant factor. Prices can vary widely based on brand, features, and print quality, so it’s essential to find a balance between affordability and the functionalities you need.
- Cost of Consumables: This includes the price of toner cartridges and drum units. Color laser printers typically require four different toner cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black), and the cost of these consumables can add up over time, impacting the overall cost of ownership.
- Print Yield: Print yield refers to the number of pages a toner cartridge can produce before needing replacement. High-yield cartridges may have a higher initial cost but can reduce the cost per page significantly, making them a more economical choice in the long run.
- Maintenance Costs: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and servicing, can incur additional costs. Some printers may require more frequent servicing or specific parts that need replacing, influencing the total cost of ownership.
- Energy Consumption: Color laser printers can consume more energy than their inkjet counterparts, particularly during warm-up periods. Evaluating the energy efficiency of a printer can lead to savings on electricity bills over time.
- Warranty and Support: Consider the warranty period and the cost of extended support plans. A longer warranty may provide peace of mind and reduce potential repair costs, while robust customer support can help mitigate issues that may arise.
- Software and Connectivity: Some printers come with additional software or connectivity options that may incur extra costs, such as mobile printing capabilities. Ensuring these features align with your needs can prevent unforeseen expenses.