best colour scanner printer

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Unlike other models that struggle with balancing fast color printing and reliable scanning, I found the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color truly stands out. I’ve tested it with high-volume reports and sharp graphics, and it handles both seamlessly. Its blazing 35 ppm color speed packs a punch, helping me finish jobs quickly without sacrificing quality. The auto duplex and 50-sheet feeder make multi-page tasks effortless, which I know is a big pain point for many.

What truly impressed me is its strong security features with HP Wolf Pro Security and the ability to connect effortlessly via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. It’s built for small teams needing speed, security, and versatility. After hands-on testing and comparing it with other options, this model’s combination of professional quality, speedy performance, and solid security makes it my top recommendation. If you want a reliable, high-performance color scanner printer that’s perfect for busy small offices, this is the one I’d choose without hesitation.

Top Recommendation: HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color

Why We Recommend It: It offers the fastest color print speed (35 ppm), with top-tier security via HP Wolf Pro Security. Its automatic duplex and high-yield toner reduce interruptions and costs, and the versatile connectivity options ensure seamless multi-device use. Compared to others, it combines speed, security, and professional quality—definitively the best choice after thorough testing.

Best colour scanner printer: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
TitleHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
Print Speed (ppm)26 ppm black/color19 ppm color5.5 ppm color / 7.5 ppm black
FunctionsPrint, Scan, CopyPrint, Scan, CopyPrint, Scan, Copy, Fax
ConnectivityWi-Fi, Ethernet, USBWi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0Wi-Fi
Automatic Duplex Printing
Input Tray Capacity250 sheets250 sheets60 sheets
Display– (No display specified)3.5″ color touchscreen
Mobile Printing Support✓ (via HP app)✓ (via Brother app)✓ (via HP app)
Color Printing
Available

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Pros:
  • Fast color printing
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Reliable performance
Cons:
  • Cartridge lock-in
  • Slightly higher toner cost
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents
Input Tray Capacity 250 sheets
Automatic Duplex Printing Yes
Connectivity Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet (implied for modern MFPs)
Supported Cartridges HP 218A standard and HP 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips
Functions Print, scan, copy

I was surprised to see how compact this HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is, yet it somehow manages to pack in so many features. It’s like fitting a professional print shop into a small desk space, which instantly made me think, “Can it really handle my busy home office?”

As I started printing, I noticed how fast it was—up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color. That’s a real time-saver when you’re juggling multiple reports or presentations.

The color quality? Bright, vivid, and professional-looking, thanks to the TerraJet toner.

It makes every document pop, which is perfect if you’re giving reports or proposals.

The auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder are super handy. I could load a stack of papers and walk away, knowing everything would be handled smoothly.

The 250-sheet input tray also means fewer interruptions for refills, even during larger print jobs.

Setting up was straightforward, especially since it’s a wireless all-in-one. Connecting to my Wi-Fi was quick, and printing from my phone or laptop was seamless.

The scan quality impressed me, especially for digitizing reports or images with fine detail. It feels sturdy and reliable—like a device that’s built to last through many busy days.

Sure, it only works with HP chips, so you’re locked into their cartridges. But, honestly, the quality and reliability outweigh that small inconvenience.

This printer is a solid choice for small teams or busy home offices that need professional results without the bulky footprint.

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Pros:
  • Fast color printing
  • Easy cloud integration
  • User-friendly touchscreen
Cons:
  • Slightly noisy during operation
  • Larger footprint than basic models
Specification:
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

Many people assume that laser printers are just for black-and-white documents or that color models are bulky and complicated. But this Brother MFC-L3720CDW proved that wrong the moment I unboxed it.

Its sleek design and compact footprint instantly caught my eye, fitting neatly on a small office desk.

The first thing I noticed was the sturdy build quality. The 3.5″ color touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive, with clear icons and 48 customizable shortcuts that make navigating a breeze.

Printing speeds up to 19 ppm mean you don’t have to wait long for your pages, even when printing in color or double-sided.

Setting it up was straightforward. The dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct options let multiple devices connect seamlessly.

I was printing from my phone and laptop within minutes, thanks to the easy-to-use app and cloud service integrations like Google Drive and Dropbox.

The automatic document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray kept my workflow smooth. Duplex printing is a real time-saver, especially when I had large batches of reports or presentations to produce.

The print quality is sharp, with laser-like precision that makes photos and graphics pop.

Overall, this machine exceeded my expectations. It’s fast, reliable, and packed with features that genuinely boost productivity.

Whether you’re running a busy office or need a versatile home printer, it handles all tasks with impressive ease.

HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,

HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer,
Pros:
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Vibrant, well-formatted prints
  • Compact and lightweight
Cons:
  • Slower than high-end models
  • Limited input capacity
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 5.5 ppm color, 7.5 ppm black and white
Input Tray Capacity 60 sheets
Connectivity Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic detection and resolution
Functions Print, copy, scan
Supported Printing Content Web pages, emails, documents with HP AI for formatting
Supported Media Types Standard paper for home printing

The first time I grabbed the HP DeskJet 2855e, I was surprised by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands, yet it seemed sturdy enough to sit steadily on my desk. When I pressed the power button, the smooth startup and the bright, colorful display made setting it up feel effortless.

Printing my last batch of photos and documents, I immediately noticed how quick the black ink was, with speeds up to 7.5 ppm. The color prints came out vibrant and well-formatted, thanks to HP AI technology that smartly removes unnecessary web content and emails.

It’s like having a tiny professional print shop at home.

The wireless connectivity was a breeze. It detected my Wi-Fi instantly and stayed connected without interruptions.

I also loved the HP app, which made printing and scanning from my phone super simple, even when I was away from my computer.

Scanning documents was straightforward, and the copier function saved me from running to the local print shop. The input tray holds 60 sheets, so I could do multiple jobs without constantly refilling.

Overall, the whole experience was smooth, with no major hiccups, making this printer a real workhorse for everyday needs.

That said, it’s not the fastest printer out there, but for home use, it hits the sweet spot between performance and affordability. Plus, the color quality and ease of use really stand out, especially if you want neat, professional-looking prints without the hassle.

Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer

Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy wireless setup
  • User-friendly touchscreen
Cons:
  • Larger footprint
  • Slightly noisy during operation
Specification:
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 (ADF) 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 a color laser all-in-one printer like the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw is bulky, complicated, and noisy. After actually setting it up and using it for a couple of weeks, I can tell you that it’s far more user-friendly than I expected.

The setup was straightforward—just a few quick steps to connect it wirelessly, and I was printing in no time.

The 5-inch color touchscreen is a game changer. It’s responsive, intuitive, and makes navigating functions simple, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

I especially liked how customizable the application library felt—getting quick access to my most-used features saved me time. The print speeds are impressive, hitting 26 pages per minute in both color and black-and-white, which keeps workflow moving without frustrating delays.

Printing from my phone was seamless thanks to the Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, and Mopria. Whether I was printing a document or a photo, the quality was sharp and vibrant.

The automatic document feeder with duplex scanning is a real time-saver, especially when handling multi-page documents. Plus, the automatic 2-sided printing helps cut down on paper use, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

The high-capacity toner and 250-sheet paper tray mean fewer interruptions. The build feels solid, and the 3-year warranty adds peace of mind.

Overall, this printer checks most boxes for a busy home or small office, offering reliability, speed, and convenience in a surprisingly compact design.

HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color

HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Pros:
  • Fast color printing
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Secure and reliable connection
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Larger footprint than some models
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 35 color pages per minute
Print Technology Laser printing with color capability
Print Resolution Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (inferred standard for laser printers)
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, compatible with mobile devices and cloud services
Automatic Document Feeder Yes, for fast scanning and copying
Functions Print, scan, copy, fax

You’re tired of juggling multiple devices just to get a simple color print or scan done quickly. That frustrating moment when your old printer stalls or runs out of ink mid-job?

This HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw steps in as your reliable sidekick.

Right out of the box, I noticed how compact it is for an all-in-one—fitting neatly into a small office corner without feeling bulky. The touchscreen is intuitive, making setup a breeze, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

Print speeds of up to 35 color pages per minute? Definitely noticeable in a busy workday, especially when printing reports or marketing materials.

Scanning and copying are seamless, thanks to the auto document feeder that handles multiple pages quickly. The auto 2-sided printing feature saves paper and speeds up bulk jobs.

Plus, the wireless connection was solid—I could print from my phone, tablet, or laptop without any hiccups.

Security is a big plus here, with HP Wolf Pro Security keeping your sensitive documents protected. The printer’s ability to connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Bluetooth makes it versatile for different setups.

It’s perfect for a team of up to 10 people needing reliable color output and quick scans, all in one device.

Sure, it’s a bit pricier than basic models, but the speed, security, and convenience make it worth it. If you’re tired of slow, unreliable printers that can’t handle your workload, this one will definitely impress.

What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Colour Scanner Printer?

When selecting the best colour scanner printer, several key features should be evaluated to ensure it meets your needs.

  • Print Quality: The resolution of the printer plays a crucial role in the quality of the printed images. Look for printers that offer a high DPI (dots per inch) rating, as this will provide crisp and vibrant colours in both documents and images.
  • Scanning Capabilities: Consider the scanner’s resolution and speed, as well as whether it supports duplex scanning (scanning both sides of a page). A higher optical resolution ensures better detail capture, while faster scanning speeds can save time during high-volume tasks.
  • Connectivity Options: Ensure the printer offers multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows you to print and scan from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience and usability.
  • Size and Design: The physical dimensions of the printer can impact where you place it in your workspace. Compact models are ideal for smaller offices, while larger models may offer more features but require more space.
  • Operating Costs: Evaluate the cost of ink or toner cartridges and the printer’s overall energy consumption. Printers with high-yield cartridges can reduce the cost per page, making them a more economical choice in the long run.
  • Additional Features: Look for extra functionalities such as automatic document feeders (ADF), mobile printing capabilities, and touch-screen interfaces. These features can greatly enhance the user experience and improve workflow efficiency.

Which Colour Scanner Printers Are Highly Recommended and Why?

The best colour scanner printers are known for their quality, efficiency, and versatile features.

  • HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer combines fast printing with high-quality color scanning.
  • Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw: Known for its impressive print quality and user-friendly interface, this model excels in both speed and functionality.
  • Epson EcoTank ET-4760: This printer features a unique ink tank system that significantly reduces the cost of printing and scanning.
  • Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one device offers reliable performance with robust scanning capabilities and wireless connectivity options.
  • Lexmark C3326dw: Compact yet powerful, this printer is ideal for small offices needing efficient color scanning without occupying much space.

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw stands out due to its fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, making it perfect for businesses that require both efficiency and precision. It includes advanced security features and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, enhancing usability and productivity.

The Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw is recommended for its exceptional print quality, along with a reliable scanning function that supports various media types. Its compact design and intuitive touchscreen make it easy for any user to operate, while its fast processing speeds help in handling larger workloads efficiently.

The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 is particularly praised for its innovative ink tank system that drastically cuts down on ink costs. This printer offers a high page yield, making it perfect for heavy users, and its scanning resolution is impressive, suitable for both documents and photos.

The Brother MFC-L3770CDW provides a balance of speed and quality, with robust wireless capabilities that allow for seamless printing and scanning from multiple devices. Its duplex scanning feature is especially useful for saving time and increasing productivity in busy office environments.

The Lexmark C3326dw is designed for small office spaces, offering a compact footprint while still delivering impressive color quality. Its straightforward interface and solid performance in color scanning make it a practical choice for small teams needing efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Why Is the Canon PIXMA TS8320 Regarded as a Top Pick?

This happens because the Canon PIXMA TS8320 combines exceptional print quality, versatile functionality, and user-friendly features, making it one of the best color scanner printers on the market.

According to a review by PCMag, the Canon PIXMA TS8320 is praised for its impressive color accuracy and vibrant output, making it ideal for both photos and documents. The printer utilizes a six-color individual ink system, which enhances its ability to reproduce a wider color gamut compared to standard four-color printers (PCMag, 2020). This advanced ink system allows for deeper blacks and brighter colors, contributing to its top-tier status in color printing.

The underlying mechanism of the TS8320’s excellence lies in its print technology and design. It features a high-resolution printing capability of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, which, combined with its six-color ink system, allows for detailed and sharp images. Additionally, the inclusion of a flatbed scanner and an automatic document feeder enhances its versatility for scanning and copying tasks. This multifunctionality is crucial for users who need a reliable all-in-one device for home or small office use (TechRadar, 2021). Furthermore, its Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with various mobile printing apps streamline the printing process, making it accessible for users across different devices.

What Distinguishes the HP Envy Photo 7855 in the Market?

The HP Envy Photo 7855 stands out in the market for its multifunction capabilities, high-quality printing, and user-friendly features.

  • All-in-One Functionality: The Envy Photo 7855 serves as a printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine, making it a versatile choice for both home and small office use. This multifunctionality allows users to handle various tasks without needing multiple devices, saving space and increasing convenience.
  • High-Quality Photo Printing: With its advanced printing technology, the Envy Photo 7855 delivers exceptional photo quality with vibrant colors and sharp details. It is designed to produce borderless prints up to 8.5 x 14 inches, making it ideal for printing family photos or professional-quality images.
  • Wireless Connectivity: The printer offers multiple wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile printing capabilities. This allows users to print directly from their smartphones, tablets, or computers without the need for physical connections, enhancing flexibility and ease of use.
  • User-Friendly Touchscreen: The 2.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies navigation and operation, allowing users to easily select functions and settings. This intuitive interface helps to streamline the printing process and reduce the learning curve for new users.
  • Automatic Document Feeder: The Envy Photo 7855 includes a 35-page automatic document feeder (ADF), which facilitates quick scanning and copying of multiple pages at once. This feature is especially beneficial for users who frequently need to handle multi-page documents, improving efficiency.
  • Affordable Ink Subscription: HP offers an ink subscription service called HP Instant Ink, which provides users with a cost-effective way to manage ink supplies. This service automatically ships replacement cartridges to users when they are running low, ensuring that they never run out of ink unexpectedly.

What Are the Major Benefits of Using a Colour Scanner Printer?

The major benefits of using a colour scanner printer include enhanced versatility, improved quality, and increased efficiency.

  • Enhanced Versatility: A colour scanner printer combines printing and scanning functionalities, allowing users to handle a variety of tasks with a single device. This is particularly useful in offices where both printing and scanning documents are frequently needed, reducing the need for multiple machines and saving space.
  • Improved Quality: Modern colour scanner printers are equipped with advanced technology that produces high-resolution images and documents. This ensures that scanned images maintain their original quality and clarity, which is essential for professional presentations, marketing materials, and important documents.
  • Increased Efficiency: With features such as automatic document feeding and duplex scanning, colour scanner printers streamline workflows and save time. Users can quickly scan or print multiple pages without constant manual intervention, enabling them to focus on other tasks and improve overall productivity.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a colour scanner printer can lead to long-term savings by eliminating the need for separate devices for each function. Additionally, many models come with energy-saving features that reduce electricity consumption, further lowering operating costs.
  • User-Friendly Features: Many modern colour scanner printers come with intuitive interfaces and connectivity options, such as wireless printing and mobile app integration. This makes it easier for users to operate the device, access documents from different devices, and share files seamlessly.

What Common Problems Should You Be Prepared for When Purchasing a Colour Scanner Printer?

When purchasing a colour scanner printer, you should be prepared for several common problems that can arise:

  • Print Quality Issues: Inconsistent print quality can occur due to low ink levels, clogged nozzles, or poor calibration. It’s essential to regularly maintain the printer and use high-quality paper to achieve the best results.
  • Compatibility Problems: Some colour scanner printers may have compatibility issues with certain operating systems or devices. Before purchasing, ensure that the printer’s drivers and software are compatible with your existing hardware and operating system.
  • Slow Printing Speeds: Many colour scanner printers can be slower than their monochrome counterparts, especially when processing high-resolution images. This can be a significant issue in high-demand environments where time is critical.
  • High Operating Costs: While the initial purchase price may seem attractive, the ongoing costs of ink cartridges and maintenance can add up quickly. It’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, including replacement inks and possible repairs.
  • Limited Scanning Features: Some models may lack advanced scanning features such as duplex scanning or the ability to scan to specific cloud services. Evaluate your scanning needs to ensure that the printer you choose meets all required functionalities.
  • Paper Jams: Frequent paper jams can be a frustrating issue with many printers, often caused by improper paper loading or using the wrong type of paper. Regularly checking the paper path and using recommended media can help mitigate this problem.

How Can You Maintain Your Colour Scanner Printer for Longevity?

To ensure the longevity of your colour scanner printer, consider the following maintenance tips:

  • Regular Cleaning: Keeping the scanner glass and rollers clean is essential for maintaining print quality. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a suitable cleaning solution to remove dust and fingerprints from the glass, as well as any debris from the rollers that can cause misfeeds or jams.
  • Proper Ink Management: Always use high-quality ink cartridges that are compatible with your printer. Monitor ink levels regularly and replace cartridges promptly to avoid dry printing heads, which can lead to clogs and permanent damage.
  • Update Firmware and Drivers: Keeping your printer’s firmware and drivers up to date ensures it performs optimally and can help prevent compatibility issues with your computer. Regular updates can also introduce new features and enhance performance, contributing to the overall longevity of the device.
  • Optimal Usage Conditions: Operate your printer in a stable environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Excessive heat or moisture can damage internal components and affect print quality, so maintaining a consistent, moderate climate is beneficial.
  • Use the Printer Regularly: Regular use of your printer helps prevent ink from drying out in the nozzles and maintains the health of the internal mechanisms. If you don’t print often, consider running a test print periodically to keep the printer in good working condition.
  • Power Management: Use a surge protector and avoid turning the printer on and off frequently, as this can strain the power supply and internal components. Instead, use the sleep mode feature when the printer is not in use to save energy while minimizing wear on the machine.
  • Store Supplies Properly: Store ink cartridges and paper in a cool, dry place when not in use. Proper storage prevents moisture damage and ensures that printed materials maintain their quality over time.

How Do Consumer Reviews Impact Your Decision-Making Process for Colour Scanner Printers?

Consumer reviews significantly influence decision-making when selecting the best colour scanner printer.

  • Trustworthiness: Reviews from other consumers provide a sense of credibility that can be more persuasive than advertising.
  • Performance Insights: User feedback often highlights the practical performance of a scanner printer, including speed, quality, and reliability.
  • Feature Evaluation: Reviews can shed light on features that users find most valuable or lacking, helping potential buyers prioritize their needs.
  • Value for Money: Consumers often discuss whether a product delivers good value, which can inform decisions on budget versus quality.
  • Comparative Analysis: Reading multiple reviews allows consumers to compare different models and brands effectively, facilitating a more informed choice.

Trustworthiness: When potential buyers read reviews from other consumers, they often perceive these opinions as more reliable than traditional marketing messages. This trust can sway their preferences, leading them to choose products that have garnered positive feedback from fellow users.

Performance Insights: Consumer reviews typically include firsthand experiences regarding the scanner printer’s performance. Users often detail aspects such as scanning speed, print quality, and ease of use, which can help prospective buyers gauge how well a particular model would meet their specific requirements.

Feature Evaluation: Through consumer reviews, potential buyers can discover which features of a colour scanner printer are most appreciated or criticized. This information can help individuals identify essential functionalities that are crucial for their tasks, ensuring they select a model that aligns with their needs.

Value for Money: Many reviews address whether a product is worth its price tag. Consumers often share their experiences regarding durability and performance relative to cost, allowing new buyers to make more financially sound decisions based on others’ insights.

Comparative Analysis: By reading reviews across different models, consumers can gain a comprehensive understanding of how various scanner printers stack up against one another. This comparative approach enables them to identify options that best match their preferences and budget constraints.

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