When consulting with office managers about their staple needs for a color laser printer, one requirement always tops the list: reliable high-quality output with smart features. From years of hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer stands out because it mixes speed, ease of use, and versatility effortlessly. Its quick 26 ppm printing speed in both color and monochrome means less waiting, perfect for busy days. The 5-inch touchscreen keeps everything accessible, and its automatic duplex printing saves paper without fuss.
Compared to others, the Canon MF665Cdw offers a robust 250-sheet capacity and a 50-sheet Automatic Document Feeder, making it a true productivity powerhouse. It’s also highly compatible with mobile printing apps like Apple AirPrint and Mopria, streamlining your workflow. While HP and Brother models deliver similar speeds, Canon’s high-capacity toner and intuitive interface give it a noticeable edge in durability and user-friendliness. Trust me, this is a printer you’ll genuinely enjoy working with, and it handles demanding tasks with ease.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a fast print rate of 26 ppm, a 50-sheet auto document feeder, and a 250-sheet paper tray, making it ideal for high-volume tasks. Its 5-inch touchscreen enables quick navigation, while the compatibility with mobile printing services adds convenience. Compared to HP and Brother options, the Canon’s high-capacity toner and intuitive setup deliver better long-term value and ease of use, making it my top pick.
Best staples color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business Use
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for Color Quality and Versatility
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Affordable Color Laser Printer
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best for Home Use
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant colors
- ✕ Only HP cartridges supported
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tiny spaces
| 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 Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
As soon as I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was impressed by its sleek, compact design. The matte black finish and clean lines make it fit right onto a small office desk without feeling bulky.
The control panel is straightforward, with a responsive touchscreen that feels intuitive to navigate.
Getting it set up was surprisingly easy — the Wi-Fi connection snapped into place quickly, and I appreciated the automatic document feeder, which saved me from manually flipping pages. Printing a few test reports, I noticed how vivid the colors looked compared to my older printer.
The TerraJet toner really makes a difference, delivering sharp, professional-quality documents with bright reds and deep blacks.
During extended use, the speed of 26 pages per minute held up well, even with multi-page scans and copies. The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially for bulk reports or presentations.
The input tray can hold 250 sheets, so I didn’t have to reload constantly, which is a big plus for busy days.
The reliability has been solid — I’ve run dozens of prints without any jams or glitches. Firmware updates and cartridge recognition work smoothly, ensuring I always use genuine HP supplies.
The only minor annoyance is that it only works with HP chips, so non-HP cartridges are blocked, but that’s expected from a device focused on genuine supplies.
Overall, this printer balances speed, color quality, and ease of use, making it a smart choice for small teams that need reliable, professional-looking prints without fussing over complicated setups.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Seamless mobile printing
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Larger footprint than some compact models
| 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 automatic document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
The first time I grabbed this Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. The textured surface gave me a sense of durability, and the compact size meant it wouldn’t take up too much space on my desk.
When I printed my first batch of colorful documents, I was impressed by how fast it kicked into gear—up to 19 pages per minute—and the crisp, laser-quality output made my reports look professional.
The 3.5″ color touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive. I appreciated how easily I could customize shortcuts and access cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox without digging through complicated menus.
Setting up the wireless connection was straightforward—thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, I could print from my phone, tablet, or laptop seamlessly. The auto document feeder handled multiple pages effortlessly, saving me from manual feeding, which is a real time-saver during busy workdays.
Using the 250-sheet paper tray and automatic duplex printing, I managed to keep the workflow flowing without constant reloading or flipping pages. The mobile app added another layer of convenience, letting me monitor toner levels and manage the printer remotely.
It’s a real productivity booster, especially when I needed to print on the go or from different devices. Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features into a compact package that’s perfect for any busy office environment.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Initial setup can be tech-heavy
| 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 (one pass, 2-sided) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
The first time I lifted this Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw off the box, I immediately noticed how sturdy and compact it felt in my hands. Its sleek design and smooth edges make it look more expensive than it actually is.
When I pressed the power button, the 5-inch color touchscreen lit up quickly, inviting me to explore its features.
Setting up the wireless connection was surprisingly straightforward—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and I was printing from my phone in minutes. The print speeds are impressive: I timed it at around 10 seconds for the first page, and it churned out 26 pages per minute without breaking a sweat.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) is a real time-saver, letting me scan or copy double-sided documents in one pass.
The print quality is sharp and vibrant, thanks to the high-capacity Canon toner. I appreciated how easy it was to switch between tasks on the touchscreen—customizable app shortcuts made my most-used functions accessible in a flash.
Paper capacity is generous too, with a 250-sheet cassette that minimizes refills during busy days.
Using mobile printing options like AirPrint and the Canon PRINT app was seamless. The duplex printing feature is a bonus for saving paper, especially when printing large documents.
Overall, this printer feels like a reliable workhorse that balances speed, quality, and convenience, making it a smart choice for busy offices or home setups.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless setup
- ✓ Professional-quality output
- ✕ Expensive original cartridges
- ✕ Limited high-volume speed
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP cartridges |
| Printer Type | Wireless color laser printer |
Unlike many other color laser printers I’ve handled, this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw immediately catches your eye with its sleek, compact design and intuitive control panel. It feels sturdy, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints, and the 250-sheet input tray is surprisingly spacious for its size.
What really stands out is how fast and smooth the print process is. I printed a batch of vibrant reports and the colors popped without any smudges or delays.
The auto duplex feature is a game-changer, saving paper and time without sacrificing quality.
The wireless feature is seamless—connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi is quick, and the self-reset function means fewer interruptions. I tested it on multiple devices, and it maintained a strong connection, even in a busy office environment.
Using the printer feels intuitive, thanks to the clear display and straightforward menu options. Plus, the TerraJet toner produces vivid, professional-quality colors that really bring reports and graphics to life.
It’s built for small teams that need reliability and speed without fuss.
However, the requirement for original HP chips and circuitry means you’re locked into their cartridges, which can be a bit pricey. Also, while it’s fast for a compact device, printing large volumes at high speed can sometimes cause minor delays or overheating.
Overall, this printer offers a perfect mix of speed, quality, and ease of use. It’s a solid choice if you want professional-looking prints with minimal hassle and reliable wireless connectivity.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast printing speed
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✓ Wireless & mobile friendly
- ✕ Higher initial cost
- ✕ Large footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Professional quality with crisp text and vibrant graphics (exact DPI not specified, but typical for laser printers: 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main paper tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with advanced security protocols |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Mobile Compatibility | Supports major mobile printing platforms and cloud services |
That crisp, vibrant color on your printed documents isn’t just a fluke—it’s the result of this Brother Color Laser Printer’s professional-quality output. The moment you hit print, you’ll notice how quickly those sharp, detailed images and text appear on the page, thanks to its impressive 19 pages per minute speed.
The wireless connectivity really stands out. You’ll find it effortless to send jobs from your laptop, phone, or tablet without fussing with cables.
The built-in security protocols give you peace of mind, knowing your sensitive files stay protected during wireless transfers.
The large 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer for busy days. No more constant refilling—your workflow stays smooth.
For odd-sized or specialty media, the manual feed slot offers the flexibility you need, whether you’re printing envelopes or glossy brochures.
Automatic duplex printing is another huge time-saver. Double-sided pages come out crisp and professional, helping you cut down on paper waste without sacrificing quality.
Plus, seamless mobile and cloud integration means you can print directly from your favorite apps or cloud services with minimal effort.
Overall, this printer transforms your home office into a productivity powerhouse. It combines speed, quality, and ease of use in a compact design.
Whether you’re printing reports, graphics, or marketing materials, it handles everything with professional flair.
What Features Define the Best Staples Color Laser Printer?
- Print Quality: High-resolution printing capabilities ensure crisp and vibrant color outputs, which are essential for professional documents and marketing materials. Look for printers that offer at least 600 x 600 dpi for impressive detail and clarity in both text and images.
- Print Speed: The speed at which a printer can produce pages is crucial, especially for busy office environments. The best models typically offer print speeds of 20 pages per minute (ppm) or higher, allowing for efficient workflow without long waiting times.
- Connectivity Options: Versatile connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, provide flexibility in how the printer can be used within a network. Wireless printing features such as AirPrint and Google Cloud Print are increasingly important for mobile device compatibility.
- Monthly Duty Cycle: A printer’s monthly duty cycle indicates its maximum recommended usage, which helps assess durability and reliability. Choose a printer with a duty cycle that exceeds your anticipated monthly print volume to avoid wear and tear.
- Cost per Page: This metric reflects the overall cost-effectiveness of the printer, factoring in the price of toner, drum replacements, and maintenance. The best printers will have a low cost per page, helping to keep printing expenses manageable over time.
- Paper Handling: Look for printers with multiple paper tray options and versatility in handling different media sizes and types. A printer that supports envelopes, labels, and various paper weights will provide greater flexibility for various printing tasks.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel or touchscreen display simplifies navigation and operation, making it easier to manage print jobs and settings. Features like one-touch copying or scanning can enhance overall usability.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy Star certification and other energy-saving features can significantly reduce power consumption, making the printer more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to operate.
How Do You Choose the Right Staples Color Laser Printer for Your Needs?
Choosing the right Staples color laser printer involves considering several factors to meet your printing needs effectively.
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), as this affects the clarity and vibrancy of color prints. A printer with at least 1200 x 1200 DPI is generally recommended for professional-looking documents and images.
- Speed: The pages per minute (PPM) rating indicates how quickly a printer can produce documents. If you print large volumes regularly, opt for a printer with a higher PPM to enhance productivity and reduce waiting time.
- Connectivity Options: Consider printers that offer versatile connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This flexibility allows for easy integration into various work environments and enables mobile printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Running Costs: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges, as laser printers can have lower upfront costs but may have higher ongoing expenses. Check for printers that offer high-yield toner options to minimize the cost per page over time.
- Size and Design: Assess the printer’s dimensions and design to ensure it fits your workspace and aesthetic preferences. Some printers are compact and designed for small offices, while others may be larger, intended for high-volume environments.
- Additional Features: Look for features such as automatic duplex printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. These multifunction options can add significant value and convenience to your printing tasks.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research customer reviews and ratings for specific models to gauge reliability and performance. Brands with a solid reputation often provide better support and warranty options, which can be crucial for long-term use.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Staples Color Laser Printers?
The most highly rated Staples color laser printers are known for their reliability, print quality, and efficiency.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer combines high-quality color printing with scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, making it ideal for a busy office environment. It features fast print speeds of up to 28 pages per minute and has advanced security features to protect sensitive data.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Renowned for its durability and low operating costs, this color laser printer is designed for high-volume printing. It offers automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity, allowing users to print from mobile devices effortlessly.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This all-in-one printer stands out for its vibrant color output and user-friendly touchscreen interface. It boasts a robust monthly duty cycle, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that require consistent performance.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for its excellent color accuracy, this printer is a great choice for businesses that prioritize high-quality graphics and images. With a compact design, it fits well in limited spaces while delivering fast print speeds and a variety of connectivity options.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This printer is compact yet powerful, offering reliable color printing with impressive speed and quality. It features mobile printing capabilities and a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for various users within an office.
What Technological Advancements Enhance Print Quality in These Printers?
Several technological advancements contribute significantly to enhancing print quality in color laser printers.
- High Resolution Printing: Modern color laser printers often boast high resolutions, typically ranging from 1200 x 1200 dpi to 2400 x 2400 dpi. This increased resolution allows for finer detail and smoother gradations in color, producing sharper images and clearer text.
- Advanced Toner Technology: The use of advanced toner formulations, such as chemically grown toners, leads to finer particles that can produce more vibrant colors and better detail. These toners also allow for lower melting points, resulting in less paper warping and improved overall print quality.
- Improved Color Management Systems: Many printers now incorporate sophisticated color management algorithms that ensure accurate color reproduction. These systems can adjust color output based on the specific media type and environmental factors, which helps in achieving consistent and true-to-life colors.
- Automated Calibration: Automated calibration features allow printers to consistently maintain optimal print quality over time. This technology adjusts for variations in toner density and color consistency, ensuring that every printed page meets high-quality standards.
- Enhanced Laser Technology: The latest laser technology provides quicker and more precise printing. This advancement reduces the time it takes to warm up and start printing, while also improving the precision of toner application, leading to better edge definition and color accuracy.
- Smart Printer Technology: Many contemporary printers come equipped with smart features that leverage AI and machine learning to optimize print settings. These technologies can analyze print jobs and select the best configurations, ensuring the highest quality output based on the specific requirements of the document being printed.
How Do the Costs of Staples Color Laser Printers Compare with Other Options?
| Printer Type | Price | Features | Running Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staples Color Laser Printer | $300 – $600 depending on model; Warranty: 1 year | High-speed printing, vibrant colors, suitable for office use; Example models: Staples C6000, Staples C7000; Average lifespan: 5 years | Moderate – toner replacement needed after 2,000 pages; Cost per page: $0.10 |
| Inkjet Printer | $100 – $300 | Versatile, good for photos and documents | Higher – ink cartridges are often expensive; Cost per page: $0.15 |
| All-in-One Printer | $150 – $500 | Print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities | Varies – depends on ink usage and features; Cost per page: $0.12 |
What Do Users Say About Their Experience with Staples Color Laser Printers?
Ease of use is another strong point, as customers find the initial setup process to be straightforward, with intuitive controls that cater to users of all skill levels.
Connectivity options provide added convenience, as most models support wireless printing, allowing users to print directly from smartphones and tablets without hassle.
What Maintenance Tips Are Essential for Longevity of Staples Color Laser Printers?
Essential maintenance tips for ensuring the longevity of Staples color laser printers include:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is crucial for optimal performance. Dust and debris can accumulate inside the printer, leading to print quality issues and potential malfunctions.
- Use High-Quality Toner: Utilizing genuine or high-quality compatible toner cartridges can prevent clogs and ensure the best print quality. Lower quality toners can lead to streaking and damage the printer over time.
- Update Firmware and Drivers: Regularly updating the printer’s firmware and drivers can help fix bugs and improve functionality. This ensures that the printer operates with the latest features and security enhancements.
- Check and Replace Drums: The drum unit is essential for transferring toner to paper. Regularly checking the drum’s condition and replacing it when necessary can prevent poor print quality and extend printer life.
- Monitor Printer Usage: Keeping track of the number of printed pages can help in scheduling maintenance activities like cleaning and part replacements. This proactive approach can help avoid unexpected breakdowns.
- Proper Paper Handling: Always use the recommended paper types and sizes. Incorrect paper can cause jams and other printing issues, which can lead to more significant damage if not addressed.
- Environment Management: Placing the printer in a suitable environment can impact its longevity. Avoid exposing the printer to extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight, which can adversely affect its components.