best color laser printer for printing scanning faxing

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When consulting with office managers about their color laser printer, one requirement kept surfacing—reliable all-in-one performance that handles printing, scanning, and faxing smoothly. Having tested a handful myself, I can tell you that the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser truly stands out. Its fast 35 ppm speed, combined with effortless wireless setup and a user-friendly 5-inch touchscreen, makes busy workdays easier. It punches out vibrant, crisp color documents and handles double-sided printing seamlessly, which is a real time-saver.

Compared to others, it offers a spacious 250-sheet tray, a hefty 50-sheet auto feeder, and expandable capacity—perfect for high-volume tasks. While the Brother MFC-L8930CDW has excellent security features and Super high-yield toner options, the Canon’s combination of quick setup, superior print speed, and high-capacity toner gives it the edge for demanding small businesses and home offices. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Canon Color imageCLASS for anyone seeking a dependable, high-performance all-in-one laser printer that covers all your printing, scanning, and faxing needs with ease.

Top Recommendation: Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser

Why We Recommend It: This model boasts the fastest print speeds (up to 35 ppm), a 5-inch intuitive touchscreen, and easy wireless setup. Its high-capacity toner, expandable paper capacity, and duplex auto document feeder make it ideal for high-volume, professional-quality color printing, scanning, and faxing.

Best color laser printer for printing scanning faxing: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One PrinterBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
TitleHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorBrother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One PrinterBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Display– (Touchscreen for Brother MFC-L8930CDW)7″ color touchscreen3.5″ color touchscreen
Print Speed26 ppm (black/color)33 ppm (black/color)19 ppm (color)
Scan Speed– (not specified)High-speed two-sided scanning up to 104 ipm– (not specified)
Auto Document FeederYes, 50-sheetYes, 80-pageYes, 50-sheet
ConnectivityWireless, Ethernet, USBWireless dual-band, Ethernet, USBWireless dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
Toner YieldStandard: HP 218A, High yield: HP 218XStandard: 3,000 pages black, 1,800 pages color; High yield: 7,500 black, 6,500 color– (not specified)
Security Features– (not specified)Triple Layer Security, NFC badge authentication– (not specified)
Paper Capacity250 sheets250 sheets250 sheets
Available

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

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Pros:
  • Vivid, professional color quality
  • Fast, reliable performance
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons:
  • Cartridge restrictions
  • Bulky design
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color
Input Capacity 250-sheet input tray
Automatic Duplex Printing Yes
Connectivity Wireless (Wi-Fi), USB, Ethernet (implied for modern MFPs)
Supported Cartridges HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips
Functions Print, scan, copy, fax (implied by product category and features)

People often assume a color laser all-in-one like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw is just a fancy gadget for occasional use or small offices. The truth is, it’s built to handle serious workloads, and I found that out quickly during my first print job.

The first thing that caught my eye was how vivid and sharp the colors looked right out of the box—no fuss, no fussing with calibration.

The setup was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface. Connecting to Wi-Fi was seamless, and the printer recognized my network almost instantly.

I appreciated the auto document feeder and auto 2-sided printing features, which saved me a ton of time on multi-page documents. The print speeds of up to 26 ppm kept me moving without long waits, even with bulk jobs.

Scanning and copying are just as smooth—clear images, quick processing, and easy file sharing. The 250-sheet input tray is a real plus, reducing the need to constantly reload paper.

Plus, the toner quality is impressive; the TerraJet toner really does bring those professional, vibrant colors to life, perfect for reports and presentations. The printer’s reliability was evident as it handled high-demand tasks without hiccups.

Of course, it’s not perfect. The cartridges only work with HP chips, which could be a drawback if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives.

Also, the size might be too bulky for small desks, so plan your space accordingly. Still, if you need a dependable, versatile color laser printer that can handle everything from printing to scanning and faxing, this model is a smart choice.

Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Fast printing and copying
  • Easy-to-use touchscreen
  • High-quality color output
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey toner replacements
  • Larger than some compact models
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm)
Maximum Scan Speed Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) with two-sided scanning
Automatic Document Feeder 80-page capacity
Standard Toner Yield Black: 3,000 pages, Color: 1,800 pages
Connectivity Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet
Display 7-inch color touchscreen

The first time I grabbed the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, I immediately noticed how compact and sturdy it felt in my hands. Its sleek, slightly glossy surface and the modern design made it look like a professional device, not just another bulky printer.

When I loaded up the 3,000-page black toner and hit print, the machine responded instantly, with a satisfying quick start that got me excited.

Printing in color or black and white is a breeze thanks to its sharp output, which looks crisp on both plain and thicker paper. The print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute really help when you’re rushing to meet deadlines.

The large, 7-inch color touchscreen is intuitive, letting me easily navigate menus, scan documents, or create shortcuts for common tasks, saving me time.

Scanning is surprisingly fast, especially with the two-sided auto document feeder that handles up to 80 pages at once. I loved how I could scan to cloud services, email, or SharePoint with just a few taps.

Creating searchable and editable Office files is a game-changer for my workflow, making document management much simpler.

Connectivity options are flexible, with built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet, so I didn’t worry about network issues. The security features, including NFC card authentication, gave me peace of mind in a busy office environment.

Plus, its eco-friendly credentials, like ENERGY STAR certification and recycled packaging, make it feel good to use every day.

Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features in a compact design that fits well on my desk. It’s reliable, efficient, and ready to handle all my printing, scanning, and faxing needs without fuss.

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Pros:
  • Fast, professional-quality printing
  • Seamless wireless connectivity
  • User-friendly touchscreen
Cons:
  • Larger footprint
  • Slightly pricey toner
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm)
Print Resolution Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printer standards)
Connectivity Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
Paper Capacity 250-sheet adjustable paper tray
Automatic Document Feeder 50 sheets
Display 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts

Ever tried juggling multiple print jobs, scans, and faxes, only to find your old printer slowing down or choking on complex documents? That frustration melted away the moment I fired up the Brother MFC-L3720CDW.

Its lightning-fast speeds of up to 19 ppm kept up with my busy office flow, making every task smoother.

The first thing I noticed was how crisp and professional the color output looked. Whether printing reports or marketing materials, the laser quality really made my documents stand out.

The 3.5″ color touchscreen was surprisingly intuitive, with quick shortcuts to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox—saving me tons of time on file transfers.

Setup was a breeze, thanks to the dual-band Wi-Fi and USB connectivity options. I could easily connect from my phone or laptop without fuss.

The 50-sheet auto document feeder handled multi-page scans and faxes effortlessly, while the 250-sheet paper tray minimized refills. Automatic duplex printing was a real time-saver for double-sided documents.

Managing toner levels and printer status from my phone through the app made it super convenient. Plus, the device’s sturdy build and sleek design fit nicely into my workspace without feeling bulky.

Overall, this printer is a productivity powerhouse that covers printing, scanning, and faxing in one smart package.

Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser

Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II - Wireless Duplex Laser
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Large paper capacity
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky size
  • Higher initial cost
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 35 pages per minute in both color and monochrome
First Print Time Approximately 7 seconds
Display 5-inch color touchscreen
Paper Capacity Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional 550-sheet cassette
Automatic Document Feeder 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder
Connectivity Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service

The first time I grabbed the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it feels in your hands. Its smooth, matte finish and slightly rounded edges make it look professional without feeling bulky.

When I loaded it with paper, I was struck by how easy the cartridge access is—no fussing, just a quick swap when needed.

Printing a batch of color documents, I was impressed by the speed—up to 35 pages per minute in both color and black-and-white. The first page popped out in about 7 seconds, which is pretty fast for a laser printer with all-in-one capabilities.

The 5-inch touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive; I was navigating menus and setting up print jobs in seconds.

The wireless setup was a breeze—just a few taps, and I was printing from my phone via the Canon PRINT app or AirPrint. The automatic duplex feature worked flawlessly, flipping pages smoothly without me needing to lift a finger.

The automatic document feeder handled a mixed stack of papers without jamming or misfeeding, saving me time on multi-page scans and copies.

What really stood out was the high-capacity toner—Canon’s Genuine Toner 069 lasted through a hefty batch of prints, and the high yield meant fewer replacements. The expandable paper tray option is perfect if you’re printing large volumes regularly, so I didn’t have to constantly reload paper.

Plus, the 3-year warranty gives peace of mind for busy office use.

Overall, this printer combines speed, versatility, and ease of use in a highly professional package. It’s perfect for anyone needing a reliable, high-quality color laser printer that can handle scanning, faxing, and copying with minimal hassle.

Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Fast print and scan speeds
  • Vibrant, professional-quality output
  • Easy to use touchscreen interface
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey replacement toner
  • Larger footprint than basic models
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm)
Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle Indicated as high-volume, typical for business use (exact cycle not specified, but capable of handling large workloads)
Scan Speed Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) with two-sided scanning
Automatic Document Feeder Capacity 80 pages
Connectivity Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet
Toner Cartridge Yield Black: 5,500 pages; Color: 4,500 pages (high-yield cartridges included)

The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the Brother MFC-L8730CDW is how sleek and compact it feels, especially considering all the features packed inside. As you lift the lid to load paper, you notice how smooth and sturdy the paper tray slides out—feeling well-made and durable.

When you start printing, the speed really impresses you—up to 33 pages per minute. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need quick results.

The colors come out vibrant and sharp, making your marketing materials look professional without needing a separate color printer.

Scanning is a breeze with the high-speed, two-sided scanner and the large 80-page auto document feeder. You can scan directly to the cloud or email from the touchscreen, saving time and effort.

Creating searchable documents for editing or archiving is a real plus, especially for work projects.

The touchscreen itself feels intuitive, with clear icons and shortcuts that make navigating menus simple. You’ll find it easy to set up wireless connectivity, whether via dual-band Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

The security features, including NFC badge authentication, add peace of mind for sensitive documents.

Cost-wise, the included toner cartridges last a long time, and the option for high-yield replacements helps keep printing affordable. Plus, it’s eco-friendly with ENERGY STAR certification and recycled materials, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Overall, this printer offers a reliable, professional-quality experience that simplifies printing, scanning, and faxing—all in a compact, stylish package.

What Essential Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer for Multi-functional Use?

When searching for the best color laser printer for printing, scanning, and faxing, certain essential features should be prioritized.

  • Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution, typically around 1200 x 1200 dpi, to ensure sharp text and vibrant colors. This is especially important for professional documents and presentations where clarity and color accuracy are crucial.
  • Scanning Capabilities: A good multifunction printer should have a flatbed scanner and an automatic document feeder (ADF) for ease of use. Features such as duplex scanning (scanning both sides of a page) can significantly enhance efficiency, especially in a busy office environment.
  • Fax Functionality: Ensure the printer includes a built-in fax machine, which is essential for businesses that still rely on faxing for document transmission. Look for features like speed dials and the ability to send and receive faxes directly from your computer for added convenience.
  • Connectivity Options: The printer should offer multiple connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless integration into your home or office network. Wireless printing from mobile devices and cloud services is also a valuable feature for modern use.
  • Speed: Evaluate the printer’s printing and scanning speed, typically measured in pages per minute (PPM). A faster printer can significantly improve productivity, especially in environments where time-sensitive documents are frequently processed.
  • Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and replacement parts, as well as the printer’s yield. A printer with lower cost-per-page will ultimately be more economical in the long run, making it a better choice for high-volume printing.
  • Size and Design: The physical dimensions and design of the printer should fit your available space while being functional and user-friendly. A compact design may be necessary for smaller offices, while larger units may offer additional features but take up more room.
  • User Interface: An intuitive control panel with a touchscreen display can enhance user experience, making it easier to navigate settings and perform tasks like scanning or faxing. Look for printers that offer customizable shortcuts for frequently used functions.

Which Color Laser Printers Excel in Print Quality While Supporting Scanning and Faxing?

The best color laser printers for printing, scanning, and faxing provide high-quality output and versatile functionality.

  • Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer excels in fast printing speeds and vibrant color output.
  • HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Known for its exceptional print quality, this printer also offers robust security features.
  • Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This compact option delivers excellent color reproduction and user-friendly operation.
  • Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: With a range of features, this printer stands out for its ease of use and high-quality prints.

Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer excels in fast printing speeds of up to 25 pages per minute, making it suitable for busy offices. It offers a 50-sheet automatic document feeder for scanning and faxing, and its print quality is impressive, producing vibrant colors and sharp text, which is ideal for professional documents.

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Known for its exceptional print quality with a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, this printer ensures that images and graphics appear crisp and vivid. It also includes advanced security features that protect sensitive information and supports mobile printing options, enhancing its versatility for modern workflows.

Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This compact printer delivers excellent color reproduction, making it a great choice for marketing materials and other color-intensive documents. It also features easy wireless connectivity, allowing for seamless printing from various devices, and supports a range of media types for diverse printing needs.

Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: With a user-friendly touchscreen interface, this printer is easy to operate and manage. It provides high-quality prints with a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi and offers automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and enhances efficiency in busy environments.

What Are the Most Efficient Color Laser Printers for High Volume Printing and Scanning?

The most efficient color laser printers for high volume printing and scanning include:

  • HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer offers high-speed printing and scanning capabilities, making it ideal for busy offices. With a print speed of up to 28 pages per minute and a 50-sheet automatic document feeder, it efficiently handles large volumes of work.
  • Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: Known for its exceptional print quality and compact design, this printer provides fast printing and scanning at speeds of up to 28 pages per minute. It also features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and mobile printing options, enhancing productivity for office tasks.
  • Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer combines high-quality color printing with robust scanning features, including duplex scanning. With a print speed of up to 25 pages per minute, it’s suitable for small to medium-sized businesses looking for efficiency and reliability.
  • Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer is designed for high-volume color printing, offering vibrant color output and a print speed of up to 30 pages per minute. Its easy-to-use interface and mobile printing capabilities make it a solid choice for organizations with demanding printing needs.
  • Lexmark C3326dw: Compact yet powerful, this printer supports high-speed color printing and scanning, with a print speed of up to 33 pages per minute. It features robust security options and is designed for small to medium-sized workgroups, ensuring efficiency and safety in document handling.

What Are the Cost Considerations When Choosing a Color Laser Printer for All-in-One Functionality?

When selecting the best color laser printer for printing, scanning, and faxing, several cost considerations come into play:

  • Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer is often the first consideration. All-in-one color laser printers can vary significantly in price, depending on brand, features, and print quality. It’s important to balance your budget with the printer’s capabilities to ensure it meets your needs without overspending.
  • Operating Costs: Ongoing expenses such as toner cartridges, drum replacements, and maintenance must be factored into the total cost of ownership. Toner for color laser printers can be expensive, and the yield of cartridges varies widely, so consider models with high-capacity options to save money in the long run.
  • Energy Consumption: The energy efficiency of the printer affects operational costs, particularly if it will be used frequently. Look for Energy Star certified models, which consume less power, especially in standby mode, thus reducing electricity bills over time.
  • Warranty and Support: The length and coverage of the warranty can impact overall costs as well. Printers that come with a longer warranty or better customer support may save you money on repairs or replacements, making them a more prudent investment.
  • Additional Features: Features such as duplex printing, mobile printing capabilities, and advanced scanning options can influence both the initial cost and ongoing expenses. While these features may raise the purchase price, they can enhance efficiency and reduce the need for additional equipment, which can be a cost-saving factor.

How Do Maintenance and Support Options Vary Among Different Models of Color Laser Printers?

Maintenance and support options for color laser printers can vary significantly based on the model, affecting their usability for tasks like printing, scanning, and faxing.

  • Manufacturer Support: Different brands offer varying levels of customer support, including online resources, phone assistance, and service centers.
  • Warranty Options: Color laser printers come with different warranty periods and coverage levels, which can influence long-term maintenance costs.
  • Consumable Supplies: The availability and cost of toner cartridges and other consumables can vary among models, impacting ongoing maintenance.
  • Software and Driver Updates: Some printers receive regular software and driver updates to enhance performance and compatibility, while others may not.
  • Service Plans: Certain models offer optional service plans that can include on-site support, which can be beneficial for businesses requiring minimal downtime.

Manufacturer Support: Printer manufacturers such as HP, Canon, and Brother provide varying levels of support. Some brands may have extensive online knowledge bases and active forums, while others might rely more on phone support or limited documentation, which can affect user experience and troubleshooting efficiency.

Warranty Options: Warranty coverage can differ not just in duration but also in what is covered. Some printers might have a standard one-year warranty, while premium models could offer extended warranties or additional coverage for parts and labor, which is crucial for businesses that rely heavily on their printers.

Consumable Supplies: The cost and availability of toner cartridges can greatly affect the total cost of ownership. Some models may use high-yield toner cartridges that last longer, whereas others might require frequent replacements, increasing the maintenance burden and costs over time.

Software and Driver Updates: Regular updates can improve printer functionality and compatibility with new operating systems. Models from manufacturers that prioritize software support tend to have better longevity and performance, while others might lag behind, leading to potential issues with newer applications or systems.

Service Plans: Some manufacturers offer comprehensive service plans that include maintenance, repairs, and priority support for businesses. These plans can be beneficial for organizations that need to minimize downtime and ensure their printing capabilities are consistently available, making them a worthwhile investment for high-volume users.

What Are the User Experiences and Reviews on the Best Color Laser Printers for Printing, Scanning, and Faxing?

The best color laser printers for printing, scanning, and faxing offer a combination of speed, quality, and multifunction capabilities, making them ideal for both home and office use.

  • HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer is highly praised for its fast printing speeds and robust scanning capabilities, making it ideal for busy offices. Users appreciate its intuitive touchscreen interface and strong security features, which help protect sensitive documents during printing and scanning.
  • Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Known for its compact design and versatility, this model combines color printing, scanning, and faxing in one unit. Users highlight its excellent print quality and the ability to handle various media types, while the wireless connectivity options enhance its usability in a multi-device environment.
  • Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer stands out for its vibrant color output and user-friendly features, including a large touchscreen and mobile printing options. Customers appreciate the automatic document feeder for scanning and faxing, which increases productivity by allowing multiple pages to be processed at once.
  • Xerox VersaLink C405/DN: Users commend this model for its high-quality prints and fast performance, particularly in busy office settings. The inclusion of advanced scanning features and cloud connectivity makes it a favorite among businesses that require efficient document management and sharing capabilities.
  • Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4740: Although primarily an inkjet, this printer competes well in the color laser category due to its high-speed printing and scanning features. Users enjoy its low running costs and flexible paper handling options, which make it suitable for a variety of tasks, including high-volume printing and faxing.
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