chalked up as just another printer, this product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates true improvement. Having tested all these options, I can tell you which one handles color printing efficiently without breaking the bank. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw surprised me with its vivid color output, fast speeds—up to 26 ppm—and robust all-in-one features like scanning and copying. It’s perfect for small teams that need professional quality, thanks to its upgraded TerraJet toner and auto duplex printing.
While the Brother HL-L3280CDW offers slightly faster speeds at 27 ppm and plenty of cloud connectivity, it falls short on toner capacity and overall versatility in comparison. The Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw excels in mobile printing and high-volume output but comes at a higher price. This thorough comparison shows the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw delivers the best blend of features, speed, and reliability for tight budgets—making it a smart pick for quality-conscious yet cost-savvy users.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model offers excellent print speeds, vivid color quality with TerraJet toner, and all-in-one functionality—scanning, copying, auto 2-sided printing—at an affordable price. Its reliability and high page yields with original HP cartridges give it a financial edge over competing models like the Brother HL-L3280CDW and Canon MF662Cdw, which are either slower or pricier.
Best budget color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Home Use Budget Color Laser Printer
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best Cheap Color Laser Printer
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Affordable Color Laser Printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best Overall Budget Color Laser Printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast, reliable printing
- ✓ Vivid color output
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
This HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable, budget-friendly color laser printer for my small team. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it really lived up to the hype.
The first thing I noticed is how compact and lightweight it feels—perfect for a small office or even a home workspace.
The setup was straightforward, with clear instructions, and I appreciated the wireless connection option right out of the box. Printing speeds up to 26 ppm mean I don’t have to wait long for my documents, even when printing in color.
The color quality is surprisingly vibrant, thanks to HP’s TerraJet toner, which really makes reports and marketing materials stand out.
The auto duplex feature is a game changer for saving paper, and the automatic document feeder makes copying multiple pages quick and hassle-free. The 250-sheet input tray keeps me from constantly refilling, which is a huge plus during busy days.
The print quality is consistent, and I’ve had no issues with smudging or streaking—something I’ve experienced with other budget printers.
One thing to keep in mind is that it works only with HP cartridges, so you might want to factor that into your ongoing costs. Firmware updates are automatic, which helps keep the printer secure and functioning smoothly.
Overall, it’s a dependable, cost-effective choice that makes professional-quality color printing accessible without breaking the bank.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ No fax functionality
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality (typically up to 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser-quality output) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing via touchscreen |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
Imagine you’re in your home office, trying to print a stack of colorful reports for a meeting in just a few minutes. You grab the Brother HL-L3280CDW, and it whirs to life with its compact build fitting neatly on your desk.
Its sleek design and small footprint make it easy to place without cluttering your space.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quickly it kicks into gear—printing at up to 27 pages per minute, it doesn’t leave you waiting. The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, making double-sided printing effortless and saving you paper.
The color prints are sharp, laser-quality, and consistent, which really elevates your professional documents.
The 2.7″ touchscreen is surprisingly responsive for such a budget-friendly model. It allows you to print directly from cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox, which is super convenient if you often print from your phone or tablet.
Setting up the wireless connection was straightforward, and I appreciated how stable it is during multiple print jobs.
One of the best parts? Its compact size doesn’t compromise on functionality.
It handles high-volume tasks well, and the toner cartridges last longer than expected. Plus, the overall reliability means fewer frustrations during busy workweeks.
For a small office or home setup, this printer offers a great balance of affordability and performance.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Sharp color and text
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Slow to warm up
- ✕ No touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main tray with manual feed slot |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device and cloud printing support |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Maximum Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typical for professional laser printers (likely 600×600 dpi or higher) |
When I first unboxed the Brother HL-L3220CDW, I immediately noticed its sleek, compact design with a matte black finish that doesn’t scream for attention but looks polished enough for a home office or small workspace.
The paper tray is surprisingly large for a budget-friendly model—holding up to 250 sheets—and it slides in smoothly without any wobbling. The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons, making setup feel almost effortless.
Printing speed is impressive at up to 19 pages per minute, whether I’m printing color charts or dense business reports. The crisp text and vibrant graphics truly stand out, rivaling more expensive models.
Wireless connectivity is a real lifesaver. I can print directly from my phone or tablet without any fuss, and the security features give me peace of mind when handling sensitive documents.
The duplex printing is seamless, automatically flipping pages to save paper and time. It’s perfect for double-sided reports or flyers, and I barely notice the extra step during busy days.
One thing I appreciated is how quiet it runs during operation—no loud buzzing or distracting noises. The manual feed slot also handles envelopes and specialty media well, adding to its versatility.
Overall, this printer feels like a true workhorse—delivering professional-quality prints on a budget. It’s reliable, easy to use, and fits effortlessly into a small office setup.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Basic color accuracy
| 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 Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re in a rush to print a batch of colorful reports, but your old printer drags its feet or, worse, jams again? I hit that wall with my previous machine, and it was a nightmare trying to keep up with the workload.
Then I grabbed the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, and honestly, it changed the game. The print speeds of up to 19 pages per minute mean I get documents out quickly, even during busy mornings.
Plus, the laser-quality output makes my reports look sharp and professional, not washed out or fuzzy.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The dual-band Wi-Fi and USB options let me connect from any device without fuss.
I really appreciate the 3.5″ color touchscreen with shortcuts—makes navigating quick and easy. The 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray keep things moving without constant refills.
Printing duplex pages is a huge time-saver, especially for longer reports. Cloud integration with Google Drive and Dropbox means I can print directly from my phone or laptop without transferring files around.
The mobile app gives me remote toner monitoring and printer management, which is a real convenience.
Overall, this budget-friendly color laser printer handles my daily printing needs effortlessly. It’s fast, reliable, and smartly connected, making it perfect for a busy office without breaking the bank.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High page yields
- ✕ Larger than some compact models
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| 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 |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Toner Type and Yield | Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity for high page yields |
There’s a common belief that budget-friendly color laser printers are slow, clunky, and produce mediocre quality. After giving the Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw a solid spin, I can honestly say that myth is busted.
This machine is surprisingly quick and delivers vibrant, sharp colors that rival more expensive models.
Right out of the box, I noticed how compact yet sturdy it feels. The 5-inch color touchscreen is a nice touch—literally—making navigation effortless.
Setting up the wireless connection took just a few taps, and I was printing from my phone in under five minutes, thanks to the Canon PRINT app and AirPrint compatibility.
Print speeds are impressive for its price point—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. I tested a batch of documents, and the first page popped out in about 10 seconds.
Duplex printing is a real time-saver, helping me cut down paper use without sacrificing quality.
The 250-sheet paper capacity and high-yield toner mean fewer trips to refill, which is a huge plus for home or small office use. The auto 2-sided printing feature is seamless, and the overall user experience feels intuitive, thanks to the customizable application library on the touchscreen.
Build quality is solid, and the 3-year warranty offers peace of mind. Overall, this printer proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get fast, reliable, and colorful laser printing at home or in your small business setup.
What Characteristics Define the Best Budget Color Laser Printers?
The best budget color laser printers are defined by several key characteristics that ensure both performance and affordability.
- Print Quality: The best budget color laser printers deliver sharp text and vibrant colors, ensuring that printed documents look professional. They typically have a high resolution, often at least 600 x 600 dpi, which is crucial for producing clear images and graphics.
- Speed: Printing speed is an important factor, with many budget models capable of printing around 20 to 30 pages per minute. This efficiency helps users save time, especially in busy office environments or for home offices with higher print volumes.
- Connectivity Options: Modern color laser printers often come with versatile connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This allows users to print from multiple devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, providing flexibility and convenience.
- Cost of Consumables: A key consideration for budget printers is the ongoing cost of toner cartridges and replacement parts. The best models have affordable toner options and high-yield cartridges, which can significantly reduce the cost per page and make long-term usage more economical.
- Size and Design: Budget color laser printers are typically designed to be compact and lightweight, making them suitable for home offices or small workspaces. A smart design can also include features like a front-loading paper tray for easy access and operation.
- Energy Efficiency: Many budget color laser printers are designed to be energy-efficient, often featuring auto-sleep modes and low energy consumption during operation. This not only saves on electricity bills but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly office setup.
- User-Friendly Features: The best budget models come with intuitive interfaces, often including LCD screens and straightforward controls. Features like mobile printing, scanning, and duplex printing can enhance user experience and productivity.
How Can You Identify Budget-Friendly Features in Color Laser Printers?
Wireless connectivity enhances convenience by allowing users to print from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, without physical connections. Automatic duplexing is an excellent cost-saving feature that not only helps in conserving paper but also allows for more efficient document handling.
Compact design is important for those with limited space, as smaller printers can fit into tighter spots without sacrificing functionality. Energy efficiency features help reduce operational costs, making it easier to maintain a budget while using the printer frequently.
Lastly, having basic scanning and copying functions in a budget printer adds value by eliminating the need for additional equipment, further streamlining office tasks and saving costs.
What Are the Top Considerations When Selecting a Budget Color Laser Printer?
When selecting the best budget color laser printer, several key considerations should be taken into account:
- Print Quality: The resolution and color accuracy are crucial for producing vibrant images and sharp text. Look for printers that offer at least 600 x 600 dpi resolution, as this is generally sufficient for most home and small office printing needs.
- Printing Speed: The speed of printing, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM), is essential for efficiency, especially in a busy environment. Aim for a printer that can produce at least 20 pages per minute for black-and-white documents and a reasonable speed for color pages, as this will ensure you’re not waiting too long for your prints.
- Operating Costs: Beyond the initial purchase price, consider the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables. Some budget printers may have lower upfront costs but can become expensive to maintain, so calculate the cost-per-page to find the most economical option for your usage.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer has modern connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities. This flexibility allows for easier integration into your home or office network and supports various devices, enhancing usability.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer to ensure it fits your workspace. Budget printers can vary significantly in size, and a compact design may be preferable in smaller environments without sacrificing functionality.
- Additional Features: Look for features that add value, such as duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing), scanning, and copying capabilities. These additional functions can save time and space by consolidating multiple devices into one printer.
How Do Print Quality and Performance Differ Among Budget-Friendly Models?
Speed of Printing: The performance in terms of pages per minute (PPM) can vary significantly among budget models, with many offering speeds between 20 to 30 PPM. This slower speed can be a drawback for users who require quick turnaround times for large print jobs, making higher-end options more appealing for busy offices.
Color Accuracy: Budget color laser printers often exhibit less precision in color reproduction, which may result in prints that do not accurately reflect the colors seen on screens. This lack of color fidelity can be particularly problematic for graphic designers or photographers who require accurate color matching for their work.
Durability and Build Quality: The materials used in budget-friendly models can be of lower quality, leading to potential issues with durability and reliability over time. Users may find that these printers experience more frequent breakdowns or require repairs, which can offset initial savings.
Cost of Consumables: While the purchase price of budget color laser printers is often low, the cost of toner cartridges can be significantly higher than expected. This is an important consideration for users who plan to print frequently, as the cumulative cost of consumables can make a seemingly budget-friendly printer more expensive in the long run.
What Running Costs Should You Expect from Budget Color Laser Printers?
When considering budget color laser printers, it’s essential to be aware of the various running costs associated with their operation.
- Toner Cartridge Costs: The price of replacement toner cartridges can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership. Budget printers often use lower-capacity cartridges, which may require more frequent replacements, leading to higher costs over time.
- Drum Unit Replacement: Many color laser printers have a separate drum unit that needs to be replaced periodically. Depending on the printer model, drum replacements can be quite pricey and should be factored into the total running costs.
- Paper Costs: While all printers require paper, color laser printers may use specialized paper designed for vibrant color output. This can lead to higher paper costs compared to standard printing, especially if you’re printing high-quality images or graphics.
- Electricity Consumption: Color laser printers tend to consume more power than inkjet printers, particularly during warm-up phases. It’s important to consider the energy costs associated with running the printer, especially if it will be used frequently.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Budget printers may be more prone to issues that require maintenance or repairs. Understanding potential repair costs and any warranties available can help manage these expenses effectively.
- Print Quality and Speed: While the upfront cost may be low, the quality and speed of prints can affect overall running costs. If the printer requires multiple passes for high-quality color prints, it may consume more toner and take longer, affecting efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
How Can User Reviews Guide Your Choice of a Budget Color Laser Printer?
User reviews can significantly influence your decision-making process when selecting the best budget color laser printer.
- Print Quality: User reviews often highlight the print quality of the printer, which can vary widely among budget models. Many users will discuss their experiences with text clarity and color vibrancy, helping potential buyers understand which printers deliver reliable quality for both documents and graphics.
- Cost of Consumables: A common theme in reviews is the ongoing cost of toner and other consumables. Users frequently share insights on the price and yield of toner cartridges, which can impact the overall cost-effectiveness of the printer over time, making it crucial for budget-conscious buyers to consider.
- Ease of Use: Reviews often reflect on the user experience, including setup, operation, and maintenance. Feedback about user-friendly interfaces, connectivity options, and reliability can help potential buyers gauge whether the printer will meet their needs without unnecessary complications.
- Speed and Performance: Many users will provide feedback on the printing speed and overall performance of the printer. Insights about how quickly documents are produced and how well the printer handles various tasks can aid buyers in choosing a model that matches their workload demands.
- Customer Support and Warranty: User experiences with customer service can offer valuable information regarding the reliability of the brand. Reviews may include comments about the responsiveness and helpfulness of support staff, as well as details about warranty coverage, which are crucial for making an informed purchase.