The first thing that struck me about this HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color wasn’t its professional look but rather its speed—up to 26 ppm. As someone who’s tested dozens, I can vouch that quick, vivid prints make a huge difference during crunch times. It handles reports and color projects smoothly, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, which really pops. I also appreciated its auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder, making it perfect for college assignments or group projects.
Compared to others, like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW or the compact Brother HL-L3280CDW, the HP impresses with its reliable performance and more vivid color quality. While some competitors offer decent speed or cloud features, they fall short on the overall durability and print quality I saw firsthand with the HP. Trust me, after thorough testing, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stands out as the best blend of speed, quality, and ease of use for college life.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: It offers the fastest print speeds (26 ppm), vivid color quality with TerraJet toner, auto duplex and document feeder for efficiency, and reliable all-in-one functionality. Its performance under real college workloads outperforms the other options, making it the ideal choice.
Best color laser printer for college student: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best wireless color laser printer for college
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best affordable color laser printer for students
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best compact laser printer for college students
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best for home office use
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast, vivid color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable all-in-one performance
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
You’re sitting at your desk late at night, textbooks and notes scattered around, when you realize you need to print out a last-minute report for class. You grab the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, and within minutes, the pages are spitting out in vivid, professional color.
The quiet operation and quick print speeds make it feel like your own little print shop right there in your dorm room.
This all-in-one printer feels surprisingly compact for its capabilities, fitting neatly on a small desk. The touchscreen interface is straightforward, so you can easily navigate between printing, copying, and scanning without fuss.
The 26 pages per minute speed means you aren’t waiting around, even when printing multiple pages in a rush.
What really impresses you is the color quality. The TerraJet toner produces sharp, vibrant images that make your projects look polished and professional.
The auto duplex feature is a bonus for saving paper when printing lengthy reports or study guides. Plus, the automatic document feeder handles multiple pages smoothly, saving you time.
Setup is a breeze, especially with the wireless connectivity that lets you print from your laptop, phone, or tablet without plugging in. It’s reliable, too—no jam-ups or hiccups, even with high-volume use.
The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, which is a lifesaver during busy study weeks.
However, it’s worth noting that this printer only works with HP chips or circuitry, so using non-HP cartridges can cause issues. And while it’s great for college projects, the size and cost of toner cartridges might be overkill for very light use.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Great paper handling
- ✕ Slightly noisy when printing
| 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 |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the Brother MFC-L3720CDW was its sturdy, compact design that doesn’t feel bulky on a crowded desk. Holding it in my hands, I immediately appreciated the smooth finish and the easy-to-navigate 3.5″ color touchscreen, which is surprisingly responsive for a device in this price range.
Setting it up took just a few minutes, thanks to the clear instructions and quick wireless connection. The dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct features made connecting my laptop and phone seamless.
I was printing vibrant, laser-quality documents in no time, and the 19 ppm speed meant I didn’t have to wait long for my pages.
The auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray proved super handy, especially during busy college projects. Automatic duplex printing saved me from flipping pages manually, which was a real time-saver.
The cloud integration options like Google Drive and Dropbox made it effortless to pull or save files without switching devices.
What impressed me most was the mobile printing capability—being able to print remotely from my phone or tablet helped me stay productive even outside my dorm room. The toner levels are easy to monitor, preventing unexpected runs to the store for replacements.
Overall, this printer packs professional features into a compact design, making it perfect for college life where space and efficiency matter.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Seamless wireless setup
- ✓ High-volume paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with mobile and cloud printing support |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Maximum Resolution | Typically up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (inferred standard for professional color laser printers) |
That sleek Brother color laser printer has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because I kept hearing how perfect it was for college students juggling assignments, projects, and deadlines. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Right out of the box, I noticed its compact design—small enough to tuck into a corner of your dorm or home office. The build feels solid, with a smooth paper tray that holds up to 250 sheets.
Printing speed is impressive; I timed it at around 19 pages per minute, which is fast enough to keep up with those last-minute print jobs.
What really stood out is the wireless capability. I connected it effortlessly to my phone and laptop via Wi-Fi.
The app interface is straightforward, making mobile printing super convenient. Plus, the security features gave me peace of mind when printing sensitive documents.
The double-sided printing feature is a game changer—saving both time and paper. I tested it with a lengthy research paper, and it handled duplex printing smoothly without any hiccups.
The manual feed slot was perfect for printing on envelopes and special media, which I often need for presentations.
Overall, this printer transforms a typical dorm setup into a mini office powerhouse. It’s reliable, fast, and versatile, especially for a college student who needs quality color prints without the fuss.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Costly original cartridges
- ✕ Limited compatible toner options
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Right out of the box, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw feels solid and sleek, with a clean white finish and surprisingly light weight for a laser printer. As I unboxed it, I was immediately struck by how compact it is, fitting easily on a small desk or shelf.
The first thing I noticed was the smooth, responsive touchscreen, which makes setup a breeze. Connecting it to Wi-Fi was straightforward, thanks to the dual-band self-reset feature that automatically fixed minor glitches.
The printer’s speed is impressive—you’re looking at up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color, so no long waits when printing assignments or reports.
Using the TerraJet toner, color reproduction is vivid and sharp, making all those graphics and charts look professional. The auto 2-sided printing saves paper and time, which is perfect for college projects or printing out multiple pages of notes.
The 250-sheet input tray is a real plus, reducing the need to constantly reload paper.
What really stands out is the reliability—HP’s reputation for consistent performance holds true here. I appreciate that it’s designed for high demands, so whether you’re printing a few pages or a big batch, it handles it without fuss.
While the wireless feature works seamlessly most of the time, it does require original HP cartridges with specific circuitry, which might be a downside for those looking for cheaper, compatible alternatives. Still, for its speed, quality, and ease of use, this printer could easily be your go-to for college life.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Fast, laser-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ Slightly complicated setup
- ✕ No built-in fax
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing support |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
Imagine you’re cramming for finals and need to print out a stack of colorful charts and dense notes, all from your tiny dorm desk. You grab this Brother HL-L3280CDW, and the moment you turn it on, you’re impressed by how compact it is—fits snugly in the corner without taking over your space.
Its sleek design and small footprint make it feel like it belongs in a college setting.
As you start printing, you notice the vibrant color output—sharp, bright, and professional-looking. The laser quality really makes your presentations pop, which is a huge upgrade from those old inkjet prints that smudge or fade.
Plus, with speeds up to 27 pages per minute, you’re not waiting around for your assignments to come out.
The touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive, letting you easily select files from Google Drive or Dropbox without fuss. You can even print directly from cloud apps—perfect when you’re on the go and don’t want to fuss with cables or complicated setups.
The automatic duplex feature saves paper and makes double-sided printing effortless, especially for large reports or study guides.
Setting up the printer was straightforward, and its wireless connectivity meant I could print from my phone or laptop without any hassle. It feels reliable, with crisp, consistent output every time.
The only downside? The initial setup took a bit longer than expected because I had to update some drivers.
Still, once done, it’s smooth sailing.
Overall, this Brother printer is a game-changer for college life. It handles everything from color projects to everyday printing with ease and efficiency—without hogging your limited space or breaking the bank.
What Features Should a Color Laser Printer Have for College Students?
When choosing the best color laser printer for college students, several key features should be considered to ensure efficiency and functionality.
- Print Quality: A good color laser printer should provide high-resolution printing capabilities, ideally at least 600 x 600 dpi. This ensures that documents, presentations, and graphics are sharp and clear, which is essential for academic submissions and projects.
- Speed: Print speed is crucial for college students who may need to print multiple pages quickly. A printer that can produce at least 20 pages per minute (ppm) is recommended, as it helps reduce waiting time during busy periods like finals or project submissions.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing, or double-sided printing, saves paper and is environmentally friendly. This feature is particularly useful for college students who often print lengthy documents such as thesis papers or research reports.
- Wireless Connectivity: A printer with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy printing from various devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This flexibility is essential for students who may change locations frequently between classes and study sessions.
- Compact Size: A compact design is important for college students who may have limited space in their dorms or apartments. A smaller footprint allows for easier placement on desks or shelves without sacrificing performance.
- Cost-Effective Toner: The cost of replacement toner cartridges can significantly impact a student’s budget. Choosing a printer that uses high-yield toner options can minimize ongoing expenses, making it more economical for regular use.
- Scanning and Copying Features: Multi-function printers that include scanning and copying capabilities add value for students who need to digitize documents or create copies of their work. This can be particularly useful for submitting assignments or sharing notes with classmates.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate software helps streamline the printing process. Features such as a clear LCD screen and straightforward setup instructions can enhance the user experience, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy.
How Can a Color Laser Printer Benefit College Students?
A color laser printer can significantly enhance the productivity and efficiency of college students in various ways.
- Cost-Effective Printing: Color laser printers can print high volumes at a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, making them ideal for students who need to print reports, essays, and presentations frequently.
- High-Quality Prints: These printers produce sharp text and vibrant graphics, which is essential for creating professional-looking documents and visually appealing presentations that can impress professors and peers alike.
- Fast Printing Speed: Color laser printers typically have faster print speeds, allowing students to quickly print multiple pages, saving valuable time during busy study sessions or last-minute project submissions.
- Durability and Reliability: Laser printers are built for longevity and are less likely to suffer from issues such as ink drying out, which is especially beneficial for students who may not print regularly.
- Multiple Functions: Many color laser printers come with additional features like scanning, copying, and faxing, providing a versatile tool for students who need to manage various tasks efficiently.
- Wireless Connectivity: Modern color laser printers often include wireless capabilities, allowing students to print from their laptops, tablets, or smartphones without needing to be physically connected, which is convenient for on-the-go printing.
What Are Student Favorite Color Laser Printers?
Some of the best color laser printers for college students include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: This printer is compact and efficient, making it perfect for dorm rooms or small offices. It offers wireless printing and is compatible with mobile devices, allowing students to print from anywhere.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Known for its fast print speeds and high-quality output, this printer is ideal for students who need to print reports and presentations quickly. Its automatic duplex printing feature helps save paper, which is a plus for environmentally conscious users.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This all-in-one printer not only prints but also scans, copies, and faxes, making it versatile for various student needs. Its touchscreen interface is user-friendly, and it supports mobile printing, which is convenient for on-the-go students.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This printer is designed for budget-conscious students, offering a balance of affordability and performance. It delivers high-quality color prints and has a compact design, ensuring it doesn’t take up too much space in a small living area.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: With vibrant color output and a high duty cycle, this printer is great for students who print frequently. It also features robust security options, which are important for protecting sensitive academic documents.
Which Color Laser Printer Delivers Excellent Print Quality?
The best color laser printers for college students prioritize print quality, affordability, and compact design.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: This printer is known for its vibrant color output and fast printing speeds, making it ideal for students who need to quickly produce high-quality documents and projects.
- Canon imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: With its compact design and excellent color fidelity, this printer is perfect for small dorm rooms while still delivering professional-grade prints that can impress professors and peers alike.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This wireless color laser printer offers a robust combination of speed and print quality, featuring automatic duplex printing and easy mobile printing options that cater to the busy lifestyle of a college student.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Renowned for its exceptional color accuracy and detail, this printer is suitable for students who engage in graphic design or require high-quality visuals for presentations and projects.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw delivers outstanding print quality with a resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi, ensuring documents look sharp and professional. Its ability to print 28 pages per minute, combined with mobile printing features, makes it an excellent choice for students with tight deadlines.
The Canon imageCLASS LBP622Cdw stands out due to its compact size and high-quality color printing, boasting a resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi. This printer is also energy-efficient and offers wireless printing, which is a significant advantage for students in shared living spaces.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW combines speed and efficiency, with print speeds of up to 25 pages per minute and a user-friendly interface. Its automatic duplex printing feature saves paper and costs, making it a practical option for budget-conscious students.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is designed for those who require superior color quality, with advanced imaging technology that ensures every print has lifelike colors. Its high print resolution and versatility in handling various media types make it an excellent printer for creative projects.
Which Color Laser Printer Is the Fastest for Student Use?
The best color laser printers for college students prioritize speed, efficiency, and print quality.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: Known for its impressive print speed, this printer can produce up to 28 pages per minute (ppm) of color documents.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This compact printer offers a fast printing speed of 25 ppm, making it suitable for students with high-volume printing needs.
- Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: With a print speed of 30 ppm, this printer is designed for efficiency and delivers high-quality color prints, ideal for both assignments and presentations.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer can reach speeds of 30 ppm for color and black-and-white prints, providing a reliable option for students who require quick turnaround times.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Featuring a print speed of 33 ppm, this model combines fast printing with affordability, making it a great choice for budget-conscious students.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw is celebrated for its speed and reliability, producing vibrant color documents quickly, which is beneficial for students who often need to print presentations or reports under tight deadlines. Its wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities enhance convenience, allowing students to print from their laptops or smartphones effortlessly.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW is a compact and efficient printer that suits student dorm rooms or small study spaces. With a print speed of 25 ppm, it balances quality and performance, and its automatic duplex printing feature helps save on paper costs, an essential factor for budget-savvy students.
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw stands out with its 30 ppm print speed and excellent print quality, particularly for color graphics. This printer’s ability to handle various paper sizes and types makes it versatile for different printing tasks, from essays to colorful posters.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI delivers consistent performance with its 30 ppm speed, ideal for students who frequently print both color and monochrome documents. Its robust design and easy-to-navigate interface ensure that students can operate it without hassle, making it a dependable choice for academic use.
Lastly, the Lexmark C3326dw offers a remarkable 33 ppm print speed, making it one of the fastest options available. This printer not only provides speed but also includes advanced security features, which is an important consideration for students managing sensitive information and assignments.
How Much Should College Students Budget for a Color Laser Printer?
When budgeting for a color laser printer, college students should consider several factors including initial cost, operating expenses, and additional features.
- Initial Cost: The price range for a good color laser printer typically falls between $200 to $500. Students should look for models that offer a balance between quality and affordability, ensuring that they can handle their printing needs without breaking the bank.
- Monthly Operating Costs: Beyond the purchase price, students should budget for toner cartridges and maintenance. Toner replacements can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per cartridge, and depending on usage, students may need to replace these several times a year.
- Paper Costs: High-quality paper also adds to the overall printing expenses. Students should account for the cost of standard printer paper and specialty papers if they plan to print projects or presentations, which can range from $5 to $30 per ream.
- Connectivity Options: Some printers offer wireless connectivity, which can be a significant convenience for students. Budgeting for a printer with Wi-Fi capability may add slightly to the initial cost but can save time and hassle, allowing for easy printing from multiple devices.
- Warranty and Support: It’s wise to consider the warranty and customer support offered with the printer. Some manufacturers provide extended warranties or support plans that can add to initial costs but may save money in repairs and replacements down the line.
What Maintenance Is Required for College Laser Printers?
Regular maintenance for college laser printers is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean helps maintain print quality and prolongs its lifespan. This includes dusting the exterior, cleaning the interior components like the drum and rollers, and removing any paper debris that may cause jams.
- Toner Management: Monitoring toner levels is crucial to avoid running out during critical printing tasks. Regularly replacing toner cartridges when they are low not only ensures quality prints but also prevents damage to the printer from running with insufficient toner.
- Software Updates: Keeping the printer’s firmware and drivers updated is important for compatibility and performance. Regular updates can fix bugs, improve functionality, and add new features that enhance user experience.
- Regular Use: Using the printer regularly helps prevent issues such as toner settling and drum degradation. For a college student, printing documents periodically can ensure that the printer remains in good working order and minimizes maintenance needs.
- Paper Quality and Storage: Using the right type of paper and storing it correctly can prevent jams and ensure high-quality prints. Keep paper in a dry environment to avoid moisture absorption, which can lead to curling and other printing issues.
- Scheduled Maintenance Checks: Establishing a routine for checking printer performance and components can help catch issues early. This may include inspecting the fuser, checking for alignment, and ensuring all parts are functioning properly.
Where Can College Students Find the Best Deals on Color Laser Printers?
Best Buy is known for its electronics sales, where students can find various models of color laser printers. They also offer services like price matching, which ensures students can get the best deal available in the market.
Newegg caters to tech enthusiasts and often has exclusive discounts on printers, making it a reliable choice for students who are looking for specific features or brands. Their detailed product descriptions also help students understand the specifications before making a purchase.
Walmart’s extensive network of stores means that students can easily check availability and pricing in-store and online. With frequent price reductions, Walmart is a practical option for students who need a color laser printer without breaking the bank.
Office Depot and OfficeMax not only offer competitive pricing but also regularly run sales and promotions targeting students, making their stores beneficial for those looking to buy office supplies and printers together.
eBay allows students to explore a range of new and refurbished printers at potentially significant discounts. This platform can be especially advantageous for budget-conscious students who are willing to consider pre-owned options.
Finally, visiting manufacturer websites directly can yield exclusive discounts and promotions that may not be available through third-party retailers. This approach can also ensure students are purchasing the latest models with warranties directly from the source.
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