When searching for a color laser printer, the key considerations include print quality, speed, and connectivity options. The Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its all-in-one functionality and reliable performance. For those prioritizing compact size and affordability, the Brother HL-L3280CDW offers excellent value with solid print quality. However, tradeoffs in speed and multifunction features can make some models less suitable for high-volume or professional environments. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what makes them unique.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance print quality, speed, and connectivity, but no single model excels in all areas, so priorities matter.
- All-in-One models like the Canon MF665Cdw offer added versatility at a higher cost, making them better for small offices or home offices.
- Compact and budget-friendly options like the Brother HL-L3280CDW provide good color output but may compromise on speed or duty cycle.
- Wireless and mobile printing features are increasingly standard but vary in ease of use and reliability across models.
- Durability and toner capacity are critical for high-volume printing, often justifying higher upfront costs.
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, All-in-One with Copier, Scanner, Fax |  | Best Overall for Busy Small Offices | Print Speed: 26 ppm | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device Printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex |  | Best Value for Small Home Offices | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Paper Tray Capacity: 250 sheets | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer – White, 26 PPM, Duplex Printing |  | Best for Monochrome with Occasional Color | Print Speed: 26 ppm | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device Printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best for Small to Medium Business Use | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Laser Quality Output, Duplex, Mobile Printing & Ethernet |  | Best for Small Offices and Home Use | Print Speed: up to 27 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Office Teams Needing Multi-Functionality | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm black/color | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xerox C230dni Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Requiring Security and Easy Setup | Print Speed: 24 ppm | Color: Color | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Chromebook | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, All-in-One with Copier, Scanner, Fax
The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out as the most versatile option, combining fast color printing with scanning, copying, and faxing in one device. Its 26 ppm speed rivals larger office models, and the high-capacity toner combined with duplex printing reduces running costs. Compared to the Canon LBP646Cdw, this model adds multifunctionality, making it ideal for offices needing more than just printing. However, its larger footprint and initial setup complexity could be drawbacks for space-constrained or less tech-savvy users. The 3-year warranty offers peace of mind, especially for busy environments where downtime impacts productivity.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 26 ppm with high-quality color output
- All-in-one functionality including scan, copy, and fax
- Wireless setup and mobile printing support
- Long-lasting high-capacity toner reduces operational costs
Cons:- Larger footprint may require dedicated space
- Initial setup can be complex for less experienced users
- Higher purchase price compared to basic single-function printers
Best for: Small-business owners or teams needing an all-in-one device that handles high-volume, color, and multifunction tasks
Not ideal for: Home users with limited space or those who only need occasional color printing, due to its size and complexity
- Print Speed:26 ppm
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Display:5-inch Color Touchscreen
- Toner:Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity
- Paper Capacity:250-sheet cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray
- Automatic Document Feeder:50-sheet duplex
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This model is best suited for small offices that need reliable, fast, multifunction color printing with minimal downtime.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex
The Brother HL-L3220CDW offers a compelling balance of speed, affordability, and wireless convenience, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious home users. Its 19 ppm speed is respectable for light to moderate use, and the 250-sheet tray supports substantial print runs. Compared with the Canon LBP646Cdw, this model is more affordable and easier to set up, but it lacks multifunction capabilities like scanning and copying. The absence of detailed color accuracy specs means it’s better suited for documents rather than high-end marketing materials. Its automatic duplex feature helps save paper, which is a strong benefit for eco-conscious households or small businesses.
Pros:- Decent print speed of 19 ppm in a compact, affordable package
- Wireless and mobile device compatibility for easy printing from multiple devices
- Large 250-sheet paper tray for less frequent refilling
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to laser printing only, no multifunction features
- Higher cost per page compared to larger office models
- Lacks detailed color accuracy info for critical color work
Best for: Home office users or small teams needing reliable, affordable color printing with wireless and duplex features
Not ideal for: Users requiring scanning, copying, or advanced color accuracy for professional design work
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Paper Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Wireless Connectivity:Yes
- Mobile Device Compatibility:Yes
- Energy Certification:ENERGY STAR
Bottom line: This printer is ideal for small home offices seeking an affordable, reliable color laser printer with wireless convenience.
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer – White, 26 PPM, Duplex Printing
The Canon LBP646Cdw excels as a fast monochrome laser printer with the convenience of wireless and duplex printing, making it suitable for environments where color is a bonus rather than a primary feature. Its 26 ppm speed matches the MF665Cdw, but it lacks multifunction capabilities like scanning and copying, which the MF665Cdw offers. This model is better for users who mainly need crisp black-and-white documents and occasional color prints, especially given its higher toner replacement costs. Its compact design makes it suitable for smaller spaces, but the absence of scanning limits its versatility for busy offices.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 26 ppm for monochrome documents
- Wireless setup with mobile printing support
- Automatic duplex printing for saving paper
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no scanning or copying
- Higher toner costs for color cartridges used infrequently
- No multifunction capabilities for document management
Best for: Small offices or home users prioritizing fast monochrome printing with occasional color needs
Not ideal for: Users who require multifunction features like scanning or frequent color printing for marketing materials
- Print Speed:26 ppm
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Display:None
- Toner:Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity
- Paper Capacity:250-sheet cassette
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
- Energy Certification:Yes
Bottom line: This printer is best for users who mainly need high-speed black-and-white printing with occasional color, not for those requiring multifunction features.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW combines fast, high-quality color laser printing with multifunction features suitable for small to medium-sized businesses. Its 19 ppm speed is slightly slower than the Canon options but is offset by comprehensive features like scanning, copying, and faxing. The 3.5-inch color touchscreen simplifies workflow, and its broad connectivity—including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB—supports seamless integration. Compared to the simpler Brother HL-L3220CDW, this model adds multifunctionality and a larger screen, making it more suitable for busy work environments. However, its larger footprint and potentially high toner costs could be limiting factors for smaller spaces or tight budgets.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 19 ppm with high-quality color output
- Built-in scanner, copier, and fax for comprehensive document management
- Intuitive 3.5-inch color touchscreen for easy operation
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi and USB
Cons:- Relatively large footprint may be an issue in tight spaces
- Toner replacement costs can be high with frequent use
- Setup complexity might challenge first-time users
Best for: Small to medium businesses needing a multifunction, high-quality color laser printer with versatile connectivity
Not ideal for: Home users or very small offices with space constraints or minimal multifunction needs
Bottom line: This device is ideal for growing businesses needing a reliable, multifunction color laser printer with extensive connectivity options.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Laser Quality Output, Duplex, Mobile Printing & Ethernet
The Brother HL-L3280CDW stands out for its combination of compact size and reliable color laser quality, making it ideal for small workspaces that need professional results without taking up much room. Compared with the Xerox C230dni, this model offers comparable speed and wireless flexibility but lacks advanced security features. Its high-speed 27 ppm and automatic duplex printing promote efficiency, yet it’s limited to smaller volume tasks and may require additional toner refills sooner. The inclusion of mobile printing and Ethernet enhances connectivity, but the subscription trial could lead to ongoing costs if not managed. This pick makes the most sense for users who prioritize ease of use and decent volume capacity within a confined space.Pros:- High-quality laser color output for professional documents
- Fast print speeds up to 27 ppm improve workflow
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible printing options
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to small office and home environments; not suitable for large-volume needs
- Subscription trial may require renewal, adding ongoing costs
Best for: Small offices or home users needing reliable color output with minimal footprint
Not ideal for: High-volume printing environments where larger capacity or faster speeds are required
- Print Speed:up to 27 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile Printing
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch
- Includes:2-month refresh subscription trial
Bottom line: This printer is a strong choice for small offices or home setups prioritizing quality and convenience over high-volume capacity.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw excels by combining fast color printing, scanning, and copying in a single device, making it a versatile choice for small teams that need more than just printing. Unlike the Xerox C230dni, which emphasizes security and simple setup, this model offers a higher input tray capacity of 250 sheets, ideal for continuous workflows. Its speed of 26 ppm ensures quick turnaround on multi-page jobs, but its reliance on HP-specific toner cartridges, especially with chips, can limit flexibility and increase costs over time. If your team needs reliable, all-in-one color printing with moderate volume, this model delivers that with ease.Pros:- Fast color printing at 26 ppm for efficient workflows
- All-in-one features including scan and copy expand functionality
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and reduces costs
- Large 250-sheet input tray minimizes refilling frequency
Cons:- Limited to HP toner cartridges with chips, restricting third-party options
- Designed for small teams, not suitable for very high-volume printing
Best for: Small office teams needing multifunction capabilities with reliable color output
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume environments or users seeking third-party toner options for cost savings
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm black/color
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Toner Compatibility:HP 218A, 218X
Bottom line: This all-in-one laser printer is well-suited for small teams that need versatile, dependable color printing and scanning.
Xerox C230dni Wireless Color Laser Printer
The Xerox C230dni offers a compact, straightforward solution for small teams that value security and easy mobile setup. Unlike the HP MFP 3301sdw, which provides multifunctionality, this model focuses on reliable color printing with built-in security features and EPEAT certification, making it suitable for workplaces with sensitive data. Its 24 ppm speed is slightly slower than the others, but its ease of setup via Wi-Fi and support for Apple AirPrint and Mopria make it very user-friendly. The limited print speed may be a drawback for fast-paced environments, but its security features and compact design make it ideal for small offices with moderate volume needs.Pros:- Easy setup with mobile app support for quick deployment
- Compact design fits in small spaces
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Built-in security features protect sensitive data
Cons:- Print speed of 24 ppm may be insufficient for high-volume demands
- Limited to small office or home use; not designed for high-speed workflows
Best for: Small teams prioritizing security, ease of setup, and space efficiency
Not ideal for: High-volume or fast-paced offices needing rapid throughput
- Print Speed:24 ppm
- Color:Color
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Chromebook
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
- EPEAT Certified:Yes
Bottom line: This printer offers a secure, compact, and easy-to-use option for small offices with moderate printing needs.
How We Picked
These printers were evaluated based on several key criteria: print quality, speed, connectivity options, ease of use, and overall value. We prioritized models that balance performance with affordability, considering both home and small business needs. Durability and toner capacity were also essential, especially for users with high-volume requirements. The ranking reflects a combination of these factors, favoring versatile all-in-one units for most users while highlighting compact and budget options for those with specific space or cost constraints.Factors to Consider When Choosing Laser Printers Color
Choosing the right color laser printer involves assessing your specific printing needs and understanding the broader tradeoffs involved. Beyond basic features, consider how print quality, speed, and connectivity will impact your daily use. A printer with high-quality output may come at a higher price, while fast printers might sacrifice some detail or increase noise. Compatibility with your devices, toner costs, and maintenance requirements are also critical to long-term satisfaction. Keep these factors in mind to find a device that truly fits your workflow and budget.Print Quality and Resolution
Print quality determines how sharp and vibrant your color output will be, especially important for marketing materials and professional documents. Higher resolution models deliver finer detail but often come at a premium. Cheaper options may produce less consistent color accuracy and lower detail, which could matter for graphic-heavy or presentation prints. Always check the DPI (dots per inch) specifications and user reviews focused on color fidelity before purchasing.
Speed and Duty Cycle
Speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), directly impacts productivity, especially in busy environments. A slow printer can cause delays and frustration if you print frequently. Duty cycle indicates the maximum number of pages a printer can handle per month without breakdowns; exceeding it can lead to premature wear. For high-volume printing, choosing a model with a higher duty cycle and faster PPM is advisable, even if it costs more upfront.
Connectivity and Mobile Printing
Wireless and mobile printing features add significant convenience, allowing you to print directly from smartphones, tablets, or cloud services. However, the reliability of these features varies; some models connect seamlessly, while others can be finicky. Consider whether the printer supports your preferred platforms (AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, etc.) and if it offers Ethernet or USB options for wired setups, which can be more stable in certain environments.
Toner Costs and Replacement
Color laser printers often have higher toner replacement costs, especially for color cartridges. A model with high-yield toner options can reduce long-term expenses, making it more economical over time. Be wary of low-yield cartridges that require frequent replacements, which can add up quickly. Check the manufacturer’s estimated toner costs and availability, especially if you anticipate heavy use.
Size, Design, and Ease of Use
Size and design matter if space is limited or if you need a portable solution. Compact models are easier to fit in small offices or home workspaces but might sacrifice print speed or capacity. User interface and setup complexity also influence overall satisfaction; models with straightforward controls and clear instructions reduce frustration, especially for less tech-savvy users.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a single-function and an all-in-one color laser printer?
Single-function printers focus solely on printing, often offering better speed and lower maintenance costs, suitable for users who only need print capabilities. All-in-one models add scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, providing greater versatility at a higher price point. Consider your workflow—if you frequently scan or copy, an all-in-one can streamline your operations, but if you only print, a dedicated printer might be more cost-effective and faster.
Are wireless printers more reliable than wired models?
Wireless printers offer unmatched convenience, allowing printing from multiple devices without cables. However, their reliability depends on your network stability; Wi-Fi issues can cause delays or failed jobs. Wired models tend to be more stable and faster, especially in high-traffic environments. If your network is stable and you prioritize simplicity, wireless is ideal; otherwise, a wired connection may reduce frustrations.
How important is toner yield for high-volume printing?
Toner yield directly impacts the cost per page and the frequency of replacements. High-yield cartridges are more expensive upfront but lower your overall printing costs and downtime for replacements. For high-volume environments, investing in a printer with larger toner capacity makes sense, as it minimizes interruptions and reduces long-term expenses. Always compare the estimated pages per toner cartridge to gauge value.
Should I prioritize print speed over color accuracy?
It depends on your primary use. If you need quick turnaround times for large batches, speed is key, but this can sometimes mean sacrificing some color fidelity or detail. Conversely, for marketing materials or professional documents, color accuracy and resolution matter more, even if the printing takes a bit longer. Balance your needs based on how often and for what purpose you’ll be printing.
What maintenance is involved with color laser printers?
Color laser printers require regular toner replacements, drum unit checks, and occasional cleaning to maintain optimal quality. Some models have self-cleaning features, reducing manual effort. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your device and preserve print quality, but neglecting it may lead to print defects or breakdowns. Consider how much time you’re willing to dedicate to upkeep when choosing a model.
Conclusion
For users seeking an all-around reliable choice, the Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw offers a balanced mix of performance, versatility, and ease of use, making it ideal for small offices or demanding home setups. Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited space will find the Brother HL-L3280CDW to be an excellent value, though it may sacrifice some speed and multifunctionality. For those who need the highest print quality and professional features, a premium model like the Xerox C230dni or HP Color LaserJet Pro will deliver superior results. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific printing volume, workspace, and feature needs to ensure satisfaction over the long term.
