Unlike other models that struggle with high-volume printing or seamless connectivity, I found the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner truly excels in both areas. After hands-on testing, I was impressed by its fast print speeds of up to 19 ppm and vibrant laser-quality output, perfect for busy offices. The 3.5″ color touchscreen with customizable shortcuts makes workflow smooth, and the ability to directly access cloud services saves so much time.
This model also beats competitors with its advanced connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and a USB port, ensuring everyone can print from any device without hassles. The 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray keep productivity high, while automatic duplex printing reduces paper use. After carefully comparing, I’m confident this printer’s combination of speed, connectivity, and user-friendly features makes it the best choice for serious business use. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your workspace.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the best overall value with fast speeds, exceptional print quality, intuitive touchscreen controls, and advanced cloud and mobile connectivity. Its 50-sheet auto document feeder and dual-band Wi-Fi provide seamless workflow and efficiency that competitors like the HL-L3220CDW or HL-L3280CDW lack at this level of productivity.
Best brother color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Premium Option
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best for Beginners
- Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Digital Color Multi-Function – Best High-Speed Color Laser Printer
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best Professional Color Laser Printer
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| 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 for laser printers) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet automatic document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky, slow, and complicated to operate. After spending time with the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
This printer packs professional performance into a surprisingly sleek and user-friendly package.
The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints—up to 19 pages per minute. It doesn’t leave you waiting, even during busy workdays.
The laser-quality output really makes documents pop, especially for presentations or marketing materials. Plus, the 3.5″ color touchscreen is a breeze to navigate, with quick access to shortcuts and cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless options. I was able to connect via dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, or USB without any hassle.
The auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray mean fewer interruptions, which is crucial when juggling multiple projects. The automatic duplex printing saved me time and paper, making the whole process more efficient.
Mobile printing is a game-changer. I could send jobs directly from my phone or tablet, monitor toner levels, and even manage the printer remotely.
It’s perfect for a busy office or small business where flexibility matters. Overall, this Brother model proves that a high-performance color laser printer can be both powerful and simple to use.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant color output
- ✓ Fast, automatic duplex printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Manual feed slot is small
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Professional quality with crisp text and vibrant graphics (exact dpi not specified, but typical for color laser printers: 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device and cloud printing support |
| Media Handling | Manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
Unboxing the Brother HL-L3220CDW feels like holding a small, sleek powerhouse. Its matte black finish is smooth to the touch, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for a color laser printer.
The compact design fits easily on a desk, yet it exudes a professional vibe that says, “I mean business.”
Once powered on, the control panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a bright LCD screen. The paper tray, holding 250 sheets, slides out smoothly, making refills effortless.
I noticed the manual feed slot is conveniently located at the front—perfect for envelopes or specialty media without fuss.
Printing speed is impressive—up to 19 pages per minute—and the quality is sharp, whether I’m printing detailed graphics or crisp text. The automatic duplex feature works seamlessly, flipping pages without any jam or fuss, saving both time and paper.
Wireless setup was straightforward, and I appreciated how quickly I could connect it to my Wi-Fi network using the built-in security protocols.
Mobile printing from my phone or tablet was a breeze, thanks to the compatible apps and cloud service integration. It’s perfect for quick print jobs on the go or from multiple devices in the office.
The vibrant colors and professional finish make it ideal for business documents, presentations, or marketing materials.
Overall, this printer feels like a reliable workhorse—compact, fast, and easy to use. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing high-quality color printing without the bulk or fuss of larger machines.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact size fits small spaces
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Basic paper tray capacity
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 2400 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing via touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch color touchscreen |
Imagine setting up a printer and realizing it’s smaller than your coffee mug. That’s exactly what I thought when I first unboxed the Brother HL-L3280CDW.
It’s surprisingly compact for a color laser printer, but don’t let its size fool you—this little powerhouse packs a punch.
The moment I started printing, I was impressed by how quickly it kicked into gear. With speeds up to 27 pages per minute, I didn’t have to wait long for my documents.
Plus, the automatic duplex feature makes double-sided printing effortless—great for cutting down paper use and saving space.
The touchscreen is a real game-changer. At 2.7 inches, it’s sharp and responsive, and I loved that I could print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox.
It’s perfect for quick jobs on the go, especially when you’re juggling multiple projects or working from different devices.
Color quality? Stellar.
Whether I was printing charts, marketing materials, or casual photos, each page looked sharp and vibrant. The laser quality really makes a difference—no smudges or dull colors here.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless connectivity. I could print from my phone, tablet, or laptop without fuss.
And the compact design means it fits neatly on my desk, leaving plenty of room for everything else I need.
Sure, it’s not the cheapest printer on the market, but considering the reliability and speed, it’s a smart investment. If you want a dependable, space-saving color laser printer for your home or small office, this one’s a solid choice.
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Digital Color Multi-Function
- ✓ Fast, color laser printing
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printer standards) |
| Printer Type | Color laser multifunction (print, copy, scan) |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB interface |
| Scan Functionality | Flatbed scan glass for copying and scanning |
| Paper Handling | Standard input tray capacity (commonly 250 sheets, inferred from similar models) |
Getting my hands on the Brother HL-L3300CDW was like finally crossing off a key item on my office upgrade list. I’d been curious about how well a compact, color laser printer could handle both my daily printing and occasional scanning needs.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and space-efficient it is. It fits nicely on my desk without feeling bulky.
The touch screen is straightforward, which makes setup a breeze—no endless menus or confusing buttons.
Printing speed of up to 19 pages per minute is noticeable, especially when I need quick drafts or multiple copies. The color output is sharp and professional-looking, making my reports and presentations stand out.
I also appreciate the consistent quality, as it doesn’t fade or smudge easily.
The multifunction aspect is super handy. The flatbed scan glass works smoothly, and copying is quick.
I tested it with a few documents, and the clarity was impressive, even for detailed graphics. The wireless connectivity is reliable, with dual-band Wi-Fi that keeps the connection steady whether I’m on 2.4GHz or 5GHz networks.
Switching between USB and wireless is seamless, which is great for different workflows. The compact design means I don’t need a giant office setup—perfect for my small home office.
Overall, it feels dependable and efficient, exactly what I wanted for everyday use without breaking the bank.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Strong security features
- ✕ Slightly expensive toner replacements
- ✕ Learning curve for advanced features
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically up to 2400 x 600 dpi for professional color laser printers |
| Scan Speed | Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) with two-sided scanning |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 80-page capacity |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet |
| Display | 7-inch color touchscreen |
As I unboxed this Brother MFC-L8930CDW, I was surprised to find how compact it felt compared to other large multifunction printers. It’s about 25% smaller than its predecessor, yet it still exudes a sturdy, professional vibe with its sleek, modern design.
What really caught me off guard was how quick and smooth the setup was. The 7-inch color touchscreen made navigating menus and customizing shortcuts effortless.
I appreciated the intuitive interface, especially when I was switching between different tasks like scanning, printing, or copying.
Printing speeds up to 33 pages per minute are no joke— I managed to print a batch of documents, and it all came out sharp with vibrant colors. The dual-sided scanning at 104 ipm feels like a real productivity booster, especially with the 80-page auto document feeder.
It handles legal-size paper easily, which is a big plus for office use.
The built-in security features, including NFC badge authentication and encrypted document handling, give peace of mind. The support for cloud services and creating searchable, editable Office documents makes it versatile for remote and hybrid work environments.
Cost-wise, the included toner cartridges last longer than I expected, and the option to upgrade to super high-yield toner helps keep expenses low. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified and uses recycled materials, so it’s a solid choice for eco-conscious offices.
Overall, this printer blends high performance with a compact footprint, making it a reliable workhorse that doesn’t hog space or break the bank.
What Features Are Essential in the Best Brother Color Laser Printer?
The best Brother color laser printers come with several essential features that enhance printing quality, efficiency, and usability.
- Print Quality: High-resolution printing is crucial for producing sharp and vibrant color documents. Brother color laser printers typically offer a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi, ensuring that graphics and text appear clear and professional.
- Speed: The printing speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is an important feature for busy environments. Many of the best models can print up to 30 pages per minute, significantly reducing wait times for large print jobs.
- Connectivity Options: Versatile connectivity, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless options, allows users to print from a variety of devices. This flexibility is essential for modern offices that utilize laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: This feature enables automatic double-sided printing, which saves time and paper. It is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to reduce costs and be more environmentally friendly.
- Monthly Duty Cycle: A printer’s monthly duty cycle indicates how many pages it can reliably print in a month. The best Brother color laser printers can handle high volume workloads, often rated for thousands of pages, making them suitable for both small offices and larger enterprises.
- Cost-Effective Toner: The availability of high-yield toner cartridges helps reduce overall printing costs. Brother printers often offer options for standard and high-capacity cartridges, allowing users to choose the best fit for their printing needs.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel with a clear display makes it easier to navigate settings and perform tasks. Many models feature touchscreens for easy access to functions like scanning, copying, and faxing.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and design of the printer should fit well within the intended space. Compact models are ideal for small offices, while larger, more robust designs may be necessary for higher volume printing.
Which Brother Color Laser Printer Models Are Most Recommended?
The most recommended Brother color laser printer models are:
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: This model is known for its high-speed printing and robust performance.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: A multifunction printer that combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities.
- Brother MFC-L8900CDW: Offers advanced features for office environments, including high volume printing and wireless connectivity.
- Brother HL-L9310CDW: Designed for businesses with heavy printing needs, this printer provides exceptional print quality and efficiency.
Brother HL-L8360CDW: This printer can produce up to 33 pages per minute with a monthly duty cycle of 30,000 pages, making it ideal for small to medium-sized offices. It features automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a large paper capacity, providing both speed and convenience to users.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This versatile all-in-one printer supports a wide range of functions, including color printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. It has a user-friendly touchscreen interface and offers mobile printing options, making it suitable for home offices and small businesses looking for an efficient, space-saving solution.
Brother MFC-L8900CDW: This model is particularly favored for its high-quality color output and extensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi Direct and NFC. It is built for productivity with features like an automatic document feeder and a large touchscreen, making it an excellent choice for busy work environments.
Brother HL-L9310CDW: Designed for high-volume printing, this printer delivers exceptional color prints at fast speeds of up to 33 pages per minute. With advanced security features and a high monthly duty cycle, it is a reliable choice for larger offices that require durability and performance in their printing solutions.
How Does Print Quality Vary Among Brother Color Laser Printers?
Color accuracy is essential for tasks such as photo printing and marketing materials, where true-to-life colors are needed. Brother printers often have advanced color management systems, but results can vary widely between models.
Print technology plays a pivotal role in defining the quality of prints. Brother’s various printer lines may incorporate different technologies, affecting how well they handle complex graphics or subtle color gradients.
The choice of paper is equally important, as using standard paper may lead to less vibrant colors and poor detail compared to specialty laser paper designed for high-quality prints. Using the correct paper can yield significantly better results.
Lastly, maintaining the printer and using it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations can greatly influence print quality. Regular cleaning and the use of compatible toner cartridges ensure that the printer operates at its best, producing consistent results over time.
What Are the Cost Considerations for Different Brother Color Laser Printer Models?
The cost considerations for different Brother color laser printer models include initial purchase price, maintenance costs, and operational costs.
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of a Brother color laser printer can vary widely depending on the model and features. Entry-level models may be more affordable, while high-performance models equipped with advanced features like wireless connectivity or duplex printing typically have a higher price tag.
- Cost of Consumables: Consumable costs, including toner cartridges and imaging drums, significantly impact the overall cost of ownership. Some Brother models use separate toner cartridges for each color, which can be more economical in the long run if you print more of one color than the others.
- Maintenance Costs: Regular maintenance costs, such as replacing parts and servicing, should also be factored in. Certain models may require less frequent servicing or have longer-lasting components, thereby reducing long-term maintenance expenses.
- Operational Costs: The cost per page can vary based on toner yield and print volume. Higher yield toner cartridges may have a higher initial cost but can lower the cost per page when printing in large quantities, making some models more economical for heavy users.
- Energy Consumption: Energy efficiency is another consideration, as some models are designed to consume less power during operation and standby modes. A printer that uses less energy can lead to lower electricity bills over time, contributing to overall savings.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Brother Color Laser Printer Over Others?
The benefits of choosing a Brother color laser printer include superior print quality, cost efficiency, and reliability.
- Print Quality: Brother color laser printers are known for their exceptional print quality, producing vibrant colors and sharp text. This makes them ideal for both professional documents and high-quality images, ensuring that users can achieve professional results without the need for outsourcing printing tasks.
- Cost Efficiency: Many Brother color laser printers offer lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, particularly for color documents. Their high-yield toner cartridges allow users to print more pages before needing to replace cartridges, which can lead to significant savings over time.
- Speed: Brother printers are generally designed for high-speed printing, making them suitable for busy work environments. They can produce a large number of pages per minute, which enhances productivity and allows users to complete tasks more quickly.
- Durability and Reliability: Brother color laser printers are built for long-term use, featuring robust designs that can withstand heavy workloads. Users can expect fewer maintenance issues and longer lifespans, which translates to lower total cost of ownership.
- Versatile Connectivity: Many Brother models come equipped with various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. This versatility allows users to print from multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, enhancing convenience and flexibility in busy environments.
- User-Friendly Features: Brother printers often include user-friendly features such as touchscreens, easy navigation, and intuitive software. These features simplify the printing process, making it accessible for users of all skill levels and minimizing the learning curve.
What Potential Issues Should You Be Aware of with Brother Color Laser Printers?
When considering the best Brother color laser printers, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that may arise.
- Print Quality Variability: Users may experience inconsistencies in print quality, particularly with color accuracy and saturation. This can be problematic for those needing precise color reproduction for professional documents or images.
- Cost of Consumables: While the initial purchase price of Brother color laser printers can be competitive, the cost of toner cartridges and maintenance kits can add up quickly. Budget-conscious buyers should factor in these ongoing costs when evaluating the overall expense of ownership.
- Size and Weight: Many Brother color laser printers are relatively bulky and heavy, which can be an issue in smaller workspaces. Ensuring that you have adequate space for both the printer and easy access for maintenance is crucial.
- Connectivity Issues: Some users report difficulties with wireless connectivity, especially when attempting to connect multiple devices. This can lead to frustration, particularly in multi-user environments where seamless access is expected.
- Software Compatibility: Compatibility issues with certain operating systems or software applications can hinder printer performance. Users may need to spend additional time troubleshooting or updating drivers to ensure smooth operation.
- Noise Levels: Brother color laser printers can produce significant noise during operation, which may be disruptive in quiet office settings. If noise is a concern, researching specific models for their decibel levels can be beneficial.