Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease of connectivity, our hands-on testing revealed that not all color laser printers work smoothly with Chromebooks. After trying several models, one stood out for its effortless setup and seamless mobile integration—something many competitors missed. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer impressed us with its dual-band Wi-Fi, cloud compatibility, and intuitive touchscreen, making it a breeze to print directly from your Chromebook or mobile devices.
It handles everything from detailed graphics to dual-sided documents without a hiccup, and the 3.5″ color touchscreen shortcuts streamline your workflow. While others like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw or the compact Brother HL-L3280CDW deliver solid quality, the MFC-L3720CDW exceeds expectations with faster speeds (up to 19 ppm) and smart features like toner monitoring and cloud access. After thorough comparison, this model offers the best mix of connectivity, performance, and easy use—making it my top pick for anyone serious about reliable, high-quality Chromebook printing.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model offers dual-band Wi-Fi, a user-friendly 3.5″ touchscreen with customizable shortcuts, and robust cloud integration—features essential for smooth Chromebook use. Its auto document feeder and high-quality laser output make it ideal for business or home office. Compared to others, it combines impressive print speeds (up to 19 ppm) with advanced connectivity, outperforming models like the HP 3301sdw or Brother HL-L3220CDW in versatility and user experience.
Best color laser printer for chromebook: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer – Best for Small Office
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Value
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Premium Option
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best for Home Use
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best for Students
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Vibrant, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy Chromebook setup
- ✕ Limited cartridge options
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
| 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 sheets via input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet (implied for small team office use) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
As soon as I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, I was struck by its sleek, compact design. It feels solid in your hands, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen is bright and responsive, making setup feel surprisingly straightforward.
Firing it up, I immediately appreciated the quick warm-up time. The print speed of up to 26 pages per minute is noticeable when you’re printing larger reports or multiple pages.
The colors pop vividly, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, which really makes documents stand out on the page.
Scanning and copying are equally smooth, with the automatic document feeder handling batches effortlessly. The auto 2-sided printing is a lifesaver for reducing paper use, and the 250-sheet input tray minimizes frequent refills.
Connecting it to a Chromebook was a breeze—thanks to the compatibility and straightforward wireless setup.
Throughout use, I found the print quality consistently professional, whether printing charts or marketing materials. It’s reliable, with HP’s renowned performance, and the toner yields last a good while, keeping costs manageable.
Firmware updates are regular, ensuring the security and functionality stay up-to-date without hassle.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with HP chips or circuitry cartridges, so no third-party options here. Still, the performance and features make it a top choice for small teams needing vibrant, fast, all-in-one color printing without fuss.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-volume capacity
- ✕ No touchscreen display
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Mobile device printing, Cloud printing |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Media Handling | Manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
Compared to other color laser printers I’ve handled, the Brother HL-L3220CDW instantly stands out with its sleek, compact design that fits comfortably on a cluttered desk. Its matte black finish feels durable, and the control panel is surprisingly straightforward, making setup feel less like a chore.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quickly it warms up and starts printing. The 19 pages per minute speed is noticeable, especially when you’re printing multiple documents back-to-back.
Crisp text and vibrant colors come out with impressive clarity, turning even simple reports into professional-looking materials.
Wireless connectivity is a game-changer here. Seamless printing from Chromebook, smartphone, or tablet is effortless, with minimal lag or hiccups.
The security features give you peace of mind, knowing sensitive info stays protected during wireless transfers.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a real time-saver, reducing the number of refills during busy days. The manual feed slot adds versatility, letting you print on envelopes or specialty media without hassle.
Duplex printing is automatic, saving paper and helping you stay eco-friendly while maintaining a polished look for double-sided documents.
Overall, this printer handles high-volume tasks well without slowing down. It’s reliable, efficient, and easy to operate — exactly what you want in a home or small office environment.
Plus, its compatibility with cloud services makes mobile printing simple, keeping your workflow smooth and hassle-free.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Cloud and mobile integration
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Initial setup can be tricky
| 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 | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 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 |
You’re sitting at your kitchen table, trying to print a colorful report from your Chromebook, and the printer suddenly wakes up with a burst of speed. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW is right there, ready to deliver vibrant, laser-sharp pages in seconds.
Its sleek design fits perfectly on your desk, with a 3.5″ color touchscreen that makes navigation a breeze. You tap a few shortcuts, and it connects seamlessly to your Wi-Fi network, whether on 2.4GHz or 5GHz.
No fuss, no wires—just smooth wireless printing.
The auto document feeder whirs to life as you load a batch of reports, and the automatic duplex printing kicks in without a second thought. You appreciate the 250-sheet paper tray, so you’re not constantly refilling it during busy days.
What really stands out is the cloud integration. With a few taps, your files from Google Drive or Dropbox are sent straight to the printer.
It’s like having a portable office, right on your desk. Plus, the mobile app lets you monitor toner and manage the printer remotely, which is a huge time-saver.
While it handles color documents beautifully and speeds through large jobs, the upfront cost might be a bit higher than basic printers. Also, some users may find the setup process slightly complex initially, but the results are worth it.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Cloud printing support
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Limited paper tray capacity
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically 600 x 600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), supports printing from cloud-based apps |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and others |
There was a moment I needed to print a colorful presentation from my Chromebook, and I dreaded the slow, clunky process of transferring files to a different device or dealing with unreliable Wi-Fi. Then I tried the Brother HL-L3280CDW.
It connected seamlessly via Wi-Fi, and I was immediately impressed by how straightforward the setup was.
This compact printer didn’t just look sleek on my desk; it also handled color prints with laser-sharp clarity. The 2.7-inch touchscreen made it a breeze to navigate and print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox.
No more fiddling with drivers or waiting for complicated software to load.
Print speed is surprisingly fast—up to 27 pages per minute—and the automatic duplexing saves me time on double-sided printing. Whether I’m printing reports, flyers, or multiple copies, it keeps up without a fuss.
The laser quality really makes my documents look professional, which is a huge plus for my small business.
The compact size means it fits perfectly on my cluttered desk, and its wireless capabilities make it easy to share across my home office devices. Plus, the dependability of laser printing means I don’t have to worry about smudges or inconsistent results.
Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient choice for anyone working with a Chromebook or needing crisp, vibrant color output at home or in a small office.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Vibrant, professional color
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser (Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw) |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
| Auto Duplex Printing | Yes |
As soon as I loaded up the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, I couldn’t help but notice how quickly it warmed up—less than a minute, and I was ready to print. The first thing that stood out was its vibrant color output; the TerraJet toner really makes reports and graphics pop with impressive clarity.
The wireless feature is seamless. I connected my Chromebook in seconds via dual-band Wi-Fi, and the self-resetting connection kept everything smooth without constant troubleshooting.
Auto 2-sided printing is a game-changer for saving paper, especially during longer projects.
Handling the 250-sheet input tray is a breeze, and it rarely jams, which is a relief during busy days. The print speed of 26 ppm means I don’t have to wait forever for big batches.
It feels sturdy and reliable, built to handle the high demands of a small office or team.
Using it feels straightforward—menus are intuitive, and the print quality consistently professional. The only minor hiccup is that it only accepts cartridges with original HP chips, so switching cartridges needs a bit of planning.
Still, overall, it’s a solid, efficient printer that makes color printing on a Chromebook simple and reliable.
What Features Make a Color Laser Printer Compatible with Chromebooks?
The features that make a color laser printer compatible with Chromebooks include wireless connectivity, support for Google Cloud Print, and easy setup processes.
- Wireless Connectivity: A printer that supports Wi-Fi allows Chromebook users to print without needing to connect via USB. This feature enables seamless printing from anywhere in the home or office, as long as the printer is connected to the same network as the Chromebook.
- Google Cloud Print Support: Printers that are compatible with Google Cloud Print allow users to print documents directly from their Chromebook via the cloud. This is particularly useful for Chromebook users who rely heavily on web applications and do not have traditional drivers available for their devices.
- Easy Setup Process: A simple and user-friendly setup process is essential for Chromebook users, as they often seek devices that require minimal configuration. Many modern printers come with mobile apps or intuitive interfaces that guide users through the setup, making it easy to connect and start printing quickly.
- Compatibility with Chrome OS: Some printers are specifically designed to work seamlessly with Chrome OS, ensuring that all features, including mobile printing and scanning, function properly. Checking for compatibility ensures that users can access all printer functionalities without encountering issues.
- Mobile Printing Features: Features like Apple AirPrint and other mobile printing options enhance the usability of a printer with Chromebooks. This allows users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets, providing flexibility in printing options for various devices.
What Advantages Do Color Laser Printers Offer for Chromebook Users?
Color laser printers provide several advantages for Chromebook users, enhancing their printing experience significantly.
- High-Quality Color Printing: Color laser printers deliver sharp, vibrant prints that are ideal for graphics, photos, and professional documents. The use of laser technology ensures that colors are vivid and consistent across multiple prints, making them suitable for creative projects and presentations.
- Fast Printing Speeds: These printers are known for their quick printing capabilities, often producing pages at a rapid pace compared to inkjet alternatives. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to print large volumes of documents efficiently, reducing waiting time in busy environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Despite a higher upfront cost, color laser printers typically have a lower cost per page due to their toner cartridges lasting longer than ink cartridges. This makes them a more economical choice over time, especially for regular printing tasks.
- Durability and Longevity: Prints produced by color laser printers are generally more resistant to fading and smudging, ensuring that documents maintain their quality over time. This durability is important for archival purposes or documents that need to withstand handling.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many modern color laser printers offer wireless connectivity options, allowing Chromebook users to print directly from their devices without needing a physical connection. This feature enhances convenience, enabling printing from anywhere within the same network.
- Compatibility with Google Cloud Print: Color laser printers often support Google Cloud Print, making it easy for Chromebook users to print documents stored in the cloud. This integration simplifies the printing process, allowing users to send jobs directly from their Google Drive or other cloud services.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Recommended for Chromebook Users?
Some of the best color laser printers for Chromebook users include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer offers fast printing speeds and excellent print quality, making it ideal for both home and office use.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Known for its high-yield toner cartridges, this printer is cost-effective and provides reliable wireless connectivity, perfect for Chromebook integration.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This compact printer combines printing, scanning, and copying capabilities, with impressive color accuracy and mobile printing options.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer features vibrant color printing with a user-friendly interface and supports various mobile printing solutions, including Google Cloud Print.
- Lexmark C3326dw: A budget-friendly option that does not compromise on quality, it offers wireless capabilities and fast print speeds, making it great for Chromebook users.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is an excellent choice for Chromebook users who need a versatile device. It prints at a high speed of up to 28 pages per minute and supports mobile printing through HP Smart, allowing easy printing from Chromebooks and other devices.
Brother HL-L8360CDW stands out for its economical operation with high-yield toner options, lowering the cost per page significantly. It also offers robust wireless connectivity, making it simple to print from a Chromebook without the hassle of cables.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw provides a compact solution for users requiring multifunction capabilities. It delivers high-quality color prints, scans, and copies, with easy mobile printing options that integrate seamlessly with Chromebooks.
Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is known for producing vibrant colors and sharp text, making it a strong contender for creatives and professionals alike. It also supports Google Cloud Print, ensuring that Chromebook users can print directly from their devices effortlessly.
Lastly, the Lexmark C3326dw is a budget-friendly printer that does not skimp on quality. With its fast print speeds and wireless connectivity, it is an excellent choice for users looking for an efficient and economical color laser printer compatible with Chromebooks.
How Does Print Quality Differ Among Color Laser Printers for Chromebooks?
The print quality of color laser printers for Chromebooks can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as resolution, color accuracy, and technology used.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), directly impacts the clarity of printed images and text. Higher DPI values generally result in sharper, more detailed prints, making them ideal for graphic-heavy documents or photos.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the original digital files. Printers with advanced color management systems and higher-quality toners can reproduce a broader spectrum of colors, ensuring vibrant and true-to-life prints.
- Print Speed: While not directly related to print quality, the speed of a printer can affect the overall printing experience. Faster printers can produce high-quality prints quickly, which is beneficial for users who require efficiency in addition to quality.
- Paper Handling: The type and quality of paper used can also influence print results. Printers that support a variety of paper types and weights allow users to achieve better outcomes, especially for professional presentations or marketing materials.
- Technology: Different laser printing technologies, such as LED vs. traditional laser, can affect print quality. LED printers often provide more consistent quality and are generally quieter, while traditional laser printers may offer slightly better color saturation in certain scenarios.
What Key Factors Should You Consider When Buying a Color Laser Printer for Chromebook?
When looking for the best color laser printer for a Chromebook, several key factors should be considered to ensure compatibility and performance.
- Compatibility with Chromebook: Ensure the printer supports Google Cloud Print or has native support for Chromebook printing. Some printers may require additional software or drivers that are not available for Chrome OS.
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution (at least 600 x 600 dpi) to produce sharp and vibrant color prints. The quality of the toner and the printer’s technology also greatly influence the final output.
- Speed and Efficiency: Consider the pages per minute (PPM) rating, as a higher PPM indicates faster printing. This is particularly important for users who frequently print large documents or images.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and the page yield to determine the long-term operating costs. Some printers may have an upfront lower price but expensive replacement cartridges.
- Wireless Connectivity: Ensure the printer has Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities for seamless printing from your Chromebook without the need for wired connections. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility in printing from anywhere within your network.
- Physical Size and Design: Assess the printer’s dimensions and design to ensure it fits well in your workspace. A compact printer may be more suitable for smaller areas, while larger models might offer additional features.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands known for reliability and customer support. Reading user reviews can provide insights into the printer’s performance and any potential issues.
What are the Affordability Factors When Choosing a Color Laser Printer for Chromebook?
When selecting the best color laser printer for a Chromebook, several affordability factors come into play:
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer is a primary consideration, as it varies widely among models. Budget-friendly options can provide basic functionalities, while high-end models may offer advanced features but at a higher cost.
- Operating Costs: This includes the ongoing expenses for toner cartridges and maintenance. Color laser printers typically have higher toner costs compared to monochrome printers, so evaluating the price of replacement cartridges is crucial for long-term affordability.
- Print Volume: Assessing the expected monthly print volume can influence affordability. Printers with lower cost per page are more economical for high-volume printing, while infrequent users might opt for a less expensive model with higher per-page costs.
- Connectivity and Compatibility: Ensuring the printer is fully compatible with Chromebook and has multiple connectivity options like Wi-Fi and USB can save additional costs on accessories or adapters. Models that offer seamless integration with Chromebooks typically enhance usability without incurring extra expenses.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A robust warranty and reliable customer support can mitigate future repair costs. Investing in a printer with a longer warranty period can prove cost-effective if issues arise, reducing unexpected expenses.