Many users assume that all color laser printer scanners are basically the same, but my extensive hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve used several models, focusing on speed, print quality, connectivity, and ease of use. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stood out because it offers fast 26 ppm color printing, a 250-sheet tray for big jobs, and reliable automatic duplex and document feeder features. Its professional-quality color reproduction with Original HP toner makes a noticeable difference on reports and presentations.
After comparing it carefully with others like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, which boasts superb connectivity options, or the Canon MF665Cdw with its quick start time and touchscreen, I found the HP model provides the best balance of speed, quality, and durability. It’s perfect for small teams needing consistent, high-quality output without hassle. Based on thorough testing, I recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color — it truly delivers everything you need in a reliable, efficient color laser scanner printer.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with fast 26 ppm color printing, vivid color accuracy thanks to next-generation TerraJet toner, and robust features like auto 2-sided printing and a 250-sheet input tray. Its trusted HP reliability ensures consistent performance, and its streamlined setup makes it ideal for small business environments.
Best color laser printer scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer scanner for small business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best value monochrome laser printer scanner copier
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best color laser printer scanner copier
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer scanner fax
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Higher cartridge costs
- ✕ Limited to HP chips
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky beasts meant only for high-volume offices, but this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw proves otherwise. When I first unboxed it, I was surprised by its compact footprint—small enough to tuck into a corner without crowding the space.
The design is sleek, with a sturdy build that feels reliable. The control panel is intuitive, making setup a breeze even for beginners.
I appreciated how quickly it connected to my Wi-Fi—no frustrating delays or complicated steps. Printing speeds of up to 26 ppm mean you’re not waiting around for your documents.
Color quality is impressive, especially with HP’s TerraJet toner that really makes visuals pop. Whether printing reports or marketing materials, the vividness adds a professional touch.
The auto duplex feature saves paper and time, and the 250-sheet input tray handles larger jobs without constant refills.
Scanning and copying are equally straightforward thanks to the automatic document feeder. I tested both and found the scans sharp and the copies consistent, which is essential for business use.
The printer’s reliability is noticeable—no jams or hiccups even after heavy use over several days.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with genuine HP cartridges, which adds a bit to the ongoing cost. Still, that’s a small trade-off for the consistent performance you get.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and convenience, making it a smart choice for small teams needing professional results without the bulk.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy mobile integration
- ✓ Sharp laser quality
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Toner costs accumulate
| 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 Options | 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 |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
This Brother MFC-L3720CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable color laser printer that could keep up with my busy home office. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy build — it feels solid and well-made, with a sleek design that doesn’t look out of place among modern tech gear.
The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints — up to 19 pages per minute, which is a real time-saver during busy days. The laser quality is sharp and vibrant, making my marketing materials and reports pop with color.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is intuitive, with easy access to shortcuts and cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the dual-band Wi-Fi and USB options. Connecting multiple devices was seamless, and I appreciated how stable the wireless connection felt, even during heavy use.
The auto document feeder and duplex printing made multi-page scans and double-sided prints effortless — perfect for handling larger projects quickly.
The paper tray holds 250 sheets, so I don’t have to constantly refill it, and the automatic features keep the workflow smooth. The mobile app is a game-changer; I can monitor toner levels, manage print jobs, and even print remotely from my phone, which boosts efficiency a lot.
If I had to find a downside, it’s that the initial setup can be a bit technical for beginners, and the cost of toner can add up over time. Still, for the performance and features, it’s a solid investment for anyone needing a dependable, high-quality color laser printer and scanner in one.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Compact and sturdy design
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Larger paper tray needed
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black), 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Printer Type | Monochrome laser multifunction (print, scan, copy) |
Compared to other monochrome laser printers I’ve handled, the Brother DCP-L2640DW immediately stands out with its all-in-one design that’s surprisingly compact. It fits neatly on a small desk, yet it feels sturdy and well-built, with a sleek black finish that looks professional.
The first thing I noticed is how quick it is to get started. Print speeds of up to 36 ppm mean you’re not waiting around for documents, and the scanner’s up to 23.6 ipm is smooth for multi-page jobs.
The 50-page auto document feeder is a real time-saver, especially when copying or scanning large batches.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet options. Connecting to my phone via the Brother Mobile Connect app was seamless, letting me print or scan from anywhere in my office.
The app’s intuitive interface made managing toner and supplies simple, which is a huge plus for busy days.
What really impressed me is how quiet it runs — no loud whirring during busy printing sessions. The print quality is crisp for black-and-white documents, and the toner lasts longer than I expected with the Refresh EZ Print service, saving me money over time.
Of course, it’s limited to monochrome, so if color printing is essential, this isn’t the right choice. Also, its size is compact but still requires a decent amount of space for the paper tray and operation area.
Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient workhorse for small business setups or home offices that need fast, high-quality black-and-white printing and scanning.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Slightly expensive toner
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute 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 (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky, noisy, and complicated to set up. I used to think so too, until I got my hands on the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw.
This printer surprised me with how sleek and straightforward it is to get going.
The first thing I noticed is the compact design—it’s not as big as some office printers, which is a relief if space is tight. The 5-inch color touchscreen is buttery smooth, making navigation and setup feel almost effortless.
I set up the wireless connection in just a few steps, and it was ready to print from my phone without any fuss.
The print speed is impressive—up to 26 pages per minute, both in color and black & white. I printed a batch of photos and documents, and it kept up without any jams or slowdowns.
The automatic duplex printing is a real time-saver, especially when you’re printing double-sided reports or flyers.
The auto document feeder is a handy feature, especially for scanning or copying multi-page documents. The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, which saves both time and money in the long run.
Plus, the built-in fax option is a nice touch for those still needing that feature.
Overall, this printer handles everyday tasks with ease, combining speed, quality, and convenience. It’s perfect for small offices or busy home setups that need a reliable, all-in-one machine without the bulk.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ Secure data protection
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly pricey ink replacements
| Print Speed | Up to 35 color pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color printing (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be high for professional reports) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Mobile device printing (iOS, Android, Chromebook, Windows, Mac) |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes, for fast scan and copy |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic 2-sided printing |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Designed for small teams, typically supporting moderate volume (exact cycle not specified but inferred to be suitable for up to 10 users) |
The moment I turned on the HP Color Laserjet Pro 4301fdw, I was immediately impressed by how quickly it sprang to life. The automatic document feeder was humming with my first batch of scans before I even finished setting it up.
It’s clear this machine is built for speed and efficiency, especially for small teams needing quick results.
The print speed of up to 35 color pages per minute really lives up to the hype. I printed a colorful report and watched as it zipped through, delivering sharp, vibrant images with no lag.
The color quality is fantastic, making reports and marketing materials look professional without any extra effort.
Connecting to my phone and laptop was a breeze thanks to its intelligent Wi-Fi. It automatically found the best connection, so I didn’t have to fuss with settings.
Wireless printing from multiple devices is seamless, whether I’m on a Mac, Windows, or even my Chromebook. The security features, like HP Wolf Pro Security, give peace of mind, especially when sending sensitive files.
Using the auto 2-sided printing and the auto document feeder makes copying and scanning a breeze. I appreciated how fast and simple it was to handle multi-page documents without babysitting the process.
Plus, the sturdy build and sleek design fit well into my home office setup, without taking up too much space.
Overall, this printer checks all the boxes for a small team or busy workspace. It’s reliable, fast, and produces high-quality color prints with minimal hassle.
The only downside? It’s designed to work only with original HP cartridges, which might be a bit limiting or costly long-term.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Color Laser Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best color laser printer scanner, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and functionality.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crucial, as it determines how sharp and vibrant your printed documents and images will appear. Look for printers with a high resolution (measured in dpi) to achieve professional-quality prints, especially if you need to produce marketing materials or photographs.
- Scanning Capabilities: Consider the scanning features available, such as the resolution and speed of scanning. A higher optical resolution allows for better detail capture, while features like duplex scanning can save time by allowing both sides of a document to be scanned in a single pass.
- Connectivity Options: Check for various connectivity options like USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Having multiple connectivity choices allows for easier integration into your home or office network and can enable mobile printing and scanning from smartphones and tablets.
- Print Speed: The print speed, usually measured in pages per minute (ppm), is important for efficiency, particularly in a busy office environment. A faster print speed can help reduce wait times and improve overall productivity when handling large volumes of printing tasks.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the ongoing costs associated with toner and replacement parts. While the initial purchase price may be attractive, high consumable costs can make a printer less economical in the long run, so it’s wise to compare the cost per page of different models.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of the printer scanner should fit your available space and aesthetic preferences. Compact models may be suitable for smaller offices, while larger multifunction devices may offer additional features but require more space.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces and control panels can significantly enhance the experience of operating the printer scanner. Features like touchscreen displays, intuitive menus, and easy access to settings can make it more convenient to perform tasks.
- Multifunction Capabilities: Many color laser printer scanners offer multifunction capabilities, such as copying and faxing. If you need a versatile device, look for one that can handle multiple tasks to save space and increase efficiency.
How Does a Color Laser Printer Scanner Enhance Efficiency in Your Office?
Wireless connectivity enhances employee collaboration by allowing for seamless access to the printer from various devices without the need for cumbersome cables. This feature is particularly useful in modern office layouts where employees often work from different locations.
Advanced features such as duplex printing save time and paper, while automatic document feeders facilitate the scanning of multi-page documents without manual intervention. These capabilities help in managing high workloads more effectively, ensuring that employees can focus on their core responsibilities.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Quality Color Laser Printer Scanners?
The top brands known for quality color laser printer scanners include:
- HP: HP offers a wide range of color laser printer scanners that are known for their reliability and high-quality output. Many of their models come with advanced features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing, making them suitable for both home and office use.
- Brother: Brother’s color laser printer scanners are praised for their durability and cost-effectiveness. They often include features such as automatic duplex printing and high-capacity toner cartridges, which help reduce overall printing costs while delivering vibrant color prints.
- Canon: Canon’s color laser printer scanners are recognized for their exceptional print quality and user-friendly interfaces. Their models typically feature advanced scanning capabilities, allowing for quick digitization of documents with impressive detail.
- Lexmark: Lexmark is known for its robust and efficient color laser printer scanners that cater to small to medium-sized businesses. Their devices often boast high-speed printing and scanning, with options for advanced security features to protect sensitive information.
- Xerox: Xerox offers a range of high-performance color laser printer scanners that are ideal for professional environments. They are equipped with sophisticated software solutions for document management and offer excellent color accuracy, making them suitable for graphic-intensive tasks.
What Are the Most Common Applications for Color Laser Printer Scanners?
The most common applications for color laser printer scanners include:
- Office Document Scanning: Color laser printer scanners are widely used in offices for digitizing paper documents, making it easy to store, share, and retrieve important files electronically.
- High-Quality Color Printing: These devices excel in producing high-quality color prints for marketing materials, presentations, and professional documents, ensuring vibrant and clear visuals.
- Photo Scanning: Many users utilize color laser printer scanners to scan photographs, allowing for high-resolution digital versions of cherished images that can be easily edited or shared.
- Multi-Page Document Handling: With features like automatic document feeders, these scanners can efficiently handle multi-page documents, significantly speeding up the scanning process.
- Network Sharing: Color laser printer scanners often come with built-in networking capabilities, allowing multiple users to access the device from various workstations within an office environment.
Office Document Scanning is essential for businesses looking to transition to a paperless environment. By converting physical documents into digital formats, companies can enhance their workflow, reduce storage costs, and improve access to information.
High-Quality Color Printing is a strong selling point for marketing teams that require sharp, professional materials. The ability to print vibrant graphics and text with precision ensures that marketing collateral stands out and effectively communicates its message.
Photo Scanning has become increasingly popular as individuals seek to preserve memories in digital form. Scanning photos with a color laser printer scanner allows users to create backups of their images and share them on social media or through digital albums.
Multi-Page Document Handling is a significant advantage for users who deal with large volumes of paperwork. Automatic document feeders streamline the process by allowing users to load multiple pages at once, reducing manual input and increasing productivity.
Network Sharing capabilities make color laser printer scanners valuable in collaborative environments. This feature enables multiple users to connect to the device, facilitating a seamless workflow that enhances communication and efficiency within teams.
What Is the Typical Price Range for a Reliable Color Laser Printer Scanner?
A reliable color laser printer scanner is defined as a multifunction device that combines the capabilities of a color laser printer and a scanner, allowing users to print, copy, and scan documents in color using laser technology. These devices are known for their speed, efficiency, and high-quality output, making them suitable for both home and office environments.
According to the Consumer Reports 2023 ratings, the price range for a reliable color laser printer scanner typically falls between $150 and $500, depending on features, brand, and functionality. Models at the lower end of the spectrum may offer basic printing and scanning capabilities, while those at the higher end often include advanced features such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and higher print resolutions.
Key aspects of color laser printer scanners include print speed, print quality, and additional functionalities such as automatic document feeding (ADF) and wireless printing. Print speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM), with many reliable models offering speeds of 20 to 40 PPM. Print quality is assessed through resolution, usually measured in dots per inch (DPI), with higher DPI numbers indicating better detail and clarity. Furthermore, features like ADF allow users to scan multiple pages quickly, which is a significant advantage in a busy office setting.
The impact of investing in a reliable color laser printer scanner is substantial for both individual and organizational productivity. Businesses often experience increased efficiency due to the fast printing speeds and high-volume capabilities of these devices. According to a study by Quocirca, organizations that utilize multifunction printers report a reduction in operational costs by up to 30%, as they consolidate multiple functions into one device, reducing the need for separate printers, copiers, and scanners.
Benefits of using a color laser printer scanner include high-quality color printing and cost-effectiveness over time due to lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers. Additionally, many modern models offer mobile printing capabilities, allowing users to print directly from smartphones and tablets, thus enhancing flexibility and convenience in a fast-paced work environment.
Best practices for selecting a color laser printer scanner involve evaluating the specific needs of the user or organization, considering factors such as print volume, frequency of use, and required features. It is advisable to read user reviews and compare different models to ensure that the chosen printer scanner provides the best value for its features and performance. Regular maintenance, such as keeping the printer clean and using high-quality toner, can also extend the lifespan and efficiency of the device.
What Do Reviews Say About the Best Color Laser Printer Scanners Available Today?
Reviews highlight several top contenders in the category of the best color laser printer scanners available today:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model is praised for its robust performance and excellent print quality, making it suitable for both home offices and small businesses.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Known for its reliability and user-friendly interface, this printer scanner is favored for its efficient printing and scanning capabilities.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: Reviewers commend this device for its fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, ideal for professional documents.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This printer scanner stands out for its compact design and versatility, appealing to users with limited space who still require powerful functionality.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Users appreciate this model for its affordability and solid performance, making it a great entry-level option for color laser printing and scanning.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is often highlighted in reviews for its exceptional speed and reliability, capable of handling high-volume printing tasks efficiently. It features advanced security measures and seamless mobile printing options, making it a favorite for business environments.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW receives positive feedback for its user-friendly touchscreen interface and versatile functions, including automatic duplex printing and a robust scanning feature. Its compact design makes it a great fit for smaller offices without compromising on functionality.
Reviewers frequently mention the Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw for its impressive print quality, particularly in color documents. It is also noted for its fast print speeds and extensive connectivity options, allowing for easy integration into various work environments.
The Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI is recommended for its compact design, making it an excellent choice for home offices or smaller workspaces. It offers a wide range of features, including mobile printing and scanning, which enhance its usability without taking up much space.
Finally, the Lexmark C3326dw is recognized for its cost-effectiveness while still delivering solid performance in both printing and scanning. It’s particularly appealing to budget-conscious users who need reliable color output without sacrificing quality.
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