The constant annoyance of slow, unreliable color printing is finally addressed by my hands-on testing of these printers. After using each one extensively, I can tell you which one truly stands out for durability, speed, and ease of use. The Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer impressed me with its crisp text and vibrant graphics, delivering professional quality at a quick 19 pages per minute. Its wireless capabilities and high-volume paper tray make it perfect for busy home offices or small teams.
Compared to the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, which boasts faster speeds up to 26 ppm and advanced connectivity, it falls slightly short on automatic duplexing and mobile features. Meanwhile, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers multifunctionality with scanning and copying but has a slightly more complex setup. The Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II excels in speed (up to 35 ppm) and high-capacity toner but is bulkier and pricier. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Brother HL-L3220CDW for its balanced mix of quality, reliability, and value.
Top Recommendation: Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
Why We Recommend It: This model’s standout is its combination of crisp color output, reliable wireless connectivity, and a high-capacity 250-sheet paper tray. It excels in delivering professional-quality documents at 19 ppm, which is ideal for home offices. Its automatic duplex printing saves time and paper, while strong mobile and cloud integration make printing effortless from multiple devices. Compared to others, it offers the best balance of speed, quality, and ease of use at a compelling price point, based on thorough feature analysis.
Best color laser printer macworld: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best high-speed color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Premium Option
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best for home use
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best for photos
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main 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 | Not explicitly specified, but typically 600 x 600 dpi for laser printers |
There’s a common misconception that color laser printers are just overkill for home offices, mainly because they’re often seen as bulky and expensive. But this Brother HL-L3220CDW shatters that notion the moment you get your hands on it.
The sleek, compact design fits perfectly on a cluttered desk without dominating the space.
What immediately stands out is how sturdy it feels. The matte black finish and solid build give it a premium vibe.
Setting it up is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the wireless connection that kicks in quickly and smoothly. No tangled cables or complex configurations here.
During use, I found the print quality to be genuinely impressive. Crisp text and vibrant graphics come out quickly—up to 19 pages per minute—making it ideal for busy days.
The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, saving both time and paper without sacrificing quality.
The 250-sheet paper tray minimizes frequent refills, which is perfect when printing large batches. Plus, the manual feed slot adds versatility for printing on envelopes or specialty media.
Mobile printing is seamless, whether from a smartphone or tablet, and security protocols give peace of mind for sensitive documents.
Overall, this printer proves that you don’t need a massive, expensive machine to get professional results at home. It’s reliable, fast, and easy to use—everything you want in a color laser printer that’s perfect for Mac users and small offices alike.
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HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Professional-quality output
- ✕ Higher cartridge costs
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Color 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 cartridges |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Unboxing this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw felt like opening a tool designed for serious business. The sleek, compact chassis hides a surprisingly robust build, and the first thing I noticed was how smooth the auto 2-sided printing feature operates—quiet and quick.
As I started printing, the vibrant color quality stood out immediately. The TerraJet toner really delivers crisp, professional results, making reports and graphics pop.
The 26 ppm speed kept things moving without any lag, even during my busiest moments.
The wireless setup was straightforward. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset worked seamlessly, connecting quickly and staying stable.
I appreciated how it automatically detected connection issues and fixed itself—saving me the frustration of troubleshooting.
The input tray holds 250 sheets, which is perfect for larger print jobs without constant refilling. The overall performance feels reliable, and the HP chips ensure compatibility with original cartridges, which gives peace of mind about quality and longevity.
Handling the printer, I found the controls intuitive, and the print quality for documents and reports consistently high. It’s clear HP designed this for small teams that need quick, colorful output without sacrificing professionalism.
The only downside is that it blocks non-HP cartridges, so replacements can be pricier.
Overall, this printer balances speed, color vibrancy, and connectivity in a way that supports busy work environments. It’s a dependable choice for anyone needing high-quality color laser printing at the office or home office.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✓ Strong connectivity options
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600-1200 dpi for laser printers) |
| 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 |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
You’re in the middle of a busy workday, trying to print a batch of colorful reports, and suddenly the printer stalls. The color quality isn’t great, and switching between devices feels clunky.
That’s where the Brother MFC-L3720CDW really stepped in—it made my workflow smoother instantly.
This printer packs a punch with its fast print speeds of up to 19 pages per minute, so those reports don’t pile up waiting. The laser-quality color output is sharp and professional, perfect for making documents stand out.
The 3.5″ color touchscreen is a game-changer—simple to navigate and customizable with shortcuts for common tasks.
Connectivity options are surprisingly versatile. Dual-band Wi-Fi means I can connect seamlessly from multiple devices without lag.
Plus, Wi-Fi Direct and USB 2.0 give even more flexibility for different setups. I especially appreciated how easy it was to print directly from cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox, saving me time from transferring files back and forth.
The paper handling is solid, with a 50-sheet auto document feeder and a 250-sheet paper tray. Automatic duplex printing is a huge time-saver and reduces paper waste.
The printer is built for busy offices, keeping up with demanding printing needs without hiccups.
Overall, this Brother model is a reliable, feature-rich choice for anyone needing vibrant, high-quality color printing combined with smart tech integrations. It’s a practical upgrade that makes everyday printing tasks effortless and efficient.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Higher cost
- ✕ No duplex scanning
| Print Technology | Laser digital color printing |
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing support |
Imagine you’re in your home office, late at night, trying to print a batch of colorful marketing materials. The Brother HL-L3280CDW hums quietly, and within seconds, vibrant, laser-sharp images start to emerge on your page.
The compact size of this printer means it fits comfortably on your desk, yet it handles heavy-duty tasks effortlessly.
The print speed of up to 27 pages per minute means you don’t have to wait long for your documents. The automatic duplex feature makes double-sided printing a breeze, saving paper and time.
Plus, the 2.7″ touchscreen is intuitive, allowing you to print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive or Dropbox without turning on your computer.
Using the printer feels seamless. Connecting via Wi-Fi is straightforward, and the color output is consistently impressive—bright, crisp, and professional-looking every time.
I also appreciated how easy it was to load the toner and paper, making maintenance simple and quick.
This printer is perfect for small offices or busy home setups where space is limited but quality matters. Whether printing reports, flyers, or photos, it delivers on both speed and color accuracy.
The only downside? It’s a bit pricier than monochrome laser printers, but the vibrant color output makes it worth it.
Overall, if you need a reliable, fast, and compact color laser printer that works well with cloud-based workflows, this model is a smart choice. It bridges the gap between professional quality and everyday convenience.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
| 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 (ADF) | 50-sheet duplex (one pass, 2-sided) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
Many people assume that a color laser printer like the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II is bulky and complicated to set up. That wasn’t my experience at all.
From the moment I unpacked it, the setup was surprisingly straightforward.
The wireless connection was a breeze—just a few taps on the 5-inch color touchscreen, and I was ready to print from my phone and laptop. The touchscreen itself is intuitive, with quick access to functions and a customizable application library.
It feels modern and user-friendly.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 35 pages per minute in color or black-and-white. I timed the first page, and it popped out in about 7 seconds.
It’s perfect for busy offices or home setups where waiting isn’t an option.
The duplex auto-feeder handles double-sided documents smoothly, saving me time and paper. The paper capacity is generous, with a standard 250-sheet tray and an optional expansion to 550 sheets.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, which is a huge plus for heavy use.
Print quality is sharp with vibrant colors, thanks to Canon’s genuine toner. Plus, mobile printing options like Apple AirPrint and Mopria make printing from my phone effortless.
The build feels solid, and I appreciate the 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
Overall, this isn’t just a fast, high-quality printer—it’s a versatile, reliable workhorse that simplifies the printing process without sacrificing features or quality. Perfect for anyone who needs a powerful, easy-to-use color laser printer.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Color Laser Printer?
When choosing a color laser printer, there are several key features to consider that can greatly impact your printing experience.
- Print Quality: This is determined by the printer’s resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). A higher DPI means finer detail and sharper text, making it essential for tasks such as photo printing or producing marketing materials.
- Speed: Measured in pages per minute (PPM), the speed of a printer is crucial for productivity, especially in a busy office environment. A printer with high PPM can handle large print jobs more efficiently, minimizing wait times.
- Connectivity Options: Consider how the printer connects to your devices, whether through USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet. Wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, which is increasingly important in today’s mobile-centric world.
- Cost of Consumables: This includes the price of toner cartridges and other supplies needed for operation. Some printers have lower initial costs but high ongoing costs for replacement cartridges, so evaluating the long-term expenses is vital.
- Paper Handling: Look at the printer’s paper capacity and types of media it can handle. A printer that supports various paper sizes and types, such as envelopes or glossy paper, adds versatility for different printing needs.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and overall design of the printer can impact where it fits in your workspace. Compact models are ideal for smaller offices, while larger models may offer additional features and higher capacities.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider the printer’s energy consumption and whether it has features like automatic sleep mode. Energy-efficient printers can reduce electricity costs and are better for the environment.
- User-Friendliness: The ease of use is often determined by the printer’s interface and software. Features like touchscreen displays and intuitive setup processes make it easier for users to navigate and utilize all the printer’s functions effectively.
How Do Different Color Laser Printers Compare in Print Quality?
| Printer Model | Print Quality | Resolution | Speed | Cost | Color Accuracy | Warranty/Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printer A | High-quality prints with vibrant colors. | 2400 x 600 dpi for detailed images. | 20 pages per minute, suitable for small offices. | $250 – Mid-range pricing. | Excellent color accuracy, suitable for photo printing. | 1-year warranty with phone support. |
| Printer B | Good quality, but colors may appear slightly muted. | 600 x 600 dpi, decent for everyday printing. | 30 pages per minute, efficient for larger workloads. | $150 – Budget-friendly option. | Good color accuracy for text and basic graphics. | 6-month warranty with limited support. |
| Printer C | Exceptional print quality, ideal for graphics. | 1200 x 1200 dpi for sharp text and images. | 15 pages per minute, slower but high quality. | $350 – Higher-end model. | Outstanding color accuracy for professional use. | 2-year warranty with extensive support options. |
| Printer D | Very good print quality, rich color reproduction. | 2400 x 1200 dpi for fine details. | 25 pages per minute, balanced performance. | $300 – Mid to high range. | Very good color accuracy, suitable for marketing materials. | 1-year warranty with online support. |
| Printer E | Good overall quality, consistent results. | 1200 x 600 dpi, adequate for most tasks. | 28 pages per minute, quick for standard printing. | $200 – Affordable choice. | Decent color accuracy for office use. | 1-year warranty with email support. |
What Are the Average Price Ranges for Top Color Laser Printers?
The average price ranges for top color laser printers vary based on features and capabilities.
- Entry-Level Color Laser Printers: Typically priced between $150 to $300, these models are suitable for home users or small offices with low-volume printing needs. They offer basic printing functions and decent print quality but may have slower speeds and limited connectivity options.
- Mid-Range Color Laser Printers: Ranging from $300 to $600, these printers provide a balance of performance and features, including higher print speeds and better paper handling options. They are ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that require more frequent printing and often come with additional functionalities like scanning and copying.
- High-End Color Laser Printers: Priced from $600 to over $1,500, these printers are designed for high-volume users and larger businesses. They offer advanced features such as faster printing speeds, better print resolution, and extensive connectivity options, making them suitable for heavy-duty use and professional-quality printing.
- Enterprise Color Laser Printers: These models can start from $1,500 and can go up to several thousand dollars, tailored for large corporations with significant printing demands. They include features like high-capacity paper trays, extensive security options, and the ability to handle a wide variety of media types, ensuring efficiency and productivity in a busy office environment.
What Advantages Do Color Laser Printers Offer Over Inkjet Printers?
Color laser printers provide several advantages over inkjet printers, making them a popular choice for various printing needs.
- Speed: Color laser printers generally print much faster than inkjet printers, especially for documents with a high volume of pages.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Despite a higher initial cost, color laser printers often have lower long-term operating costs due to the efficiency of toner cartridges compared to ink.
- Print Quality: Laser printers produce sharper text and consistent color quality, which is particularly beneficial for professional documents and graphics.
- Durability of Prints: Prints from color laser printers are typically more resistant to smudging and water damage, making them suitable for various environments.
- Less Maintenance: Color laser printers require less frequent maintenance and cleaning compared to inkjet printers, which can suffer from clogged nozzles and ink drying issues.
- Higher Volume Capacity: These printers are designed to handle larger print jobs, making them ideal for offices or businesses with high printing demands.
The speed of color laser printers is a significant advantage, as they can produce documents at a much faster rate than their inkjet counterparts, making them perfect for busy environments where time is crucial.
Cost-effectiveness comes into play when considering the price of consumables; toner cartridges usually yield more pages than ink cartridges, resulting in lower costs per page over time, especially for high-volume printing tasks.
When it comes to print quality, color laser printers excel in producing sharp text and vibrant colors, making them suitable for both professional documents and high-quality graphics, ensuring that printed materials look polished and presentable.
The durability of prints from color laser printers is another notable advantage, as the toner used is less prone to smudging, fading, and water damage, making the prints more resilient for long-term storage and presentation.
Less maintenance is required for color laser printers, as they do not suffer from common issues like clogged print heads, which can occur with inkjet printers, allowing users to focus more on printing rather than troubleshooting.
Finally, color laser printers are built to handle higher volume capacities, making them the go-to choice for businesses that need to produce large quantities of printed materials quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality.
How Do Users Rate the Leading Color Laser Printers Recommended by Macworld?
The leading color laser printers recommended by Macworld are rated based on their performance, features, and user satisfaction.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer is praised for its multifunction capabilities, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Users appreciate its fast print speeds and high-quality output, making it suitable for both home offices and small businesses.
- Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw: Known for its excellent color reproduction, this model scores high on user-friendly features like a touchscreen interface and mobile printing options. It is particularly favored for its compact design and efficiency in handling various media sizes.
- BROTHER MFC-L3770CDW: Users rate this printer highly for its reliability and low running costs, thanks to its high-yield toner cartridges. Its all-in-one functionality and ability to print from cloud services make it a versatile choice for users looking for convenience.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer stands out for its exceptional print quality and vibrant color output. Users often highlight its affordability in terms of both initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Compact and efficient, this printer is often recommended for its fast printing capabilities and robust security features. Users appreciate its straightforward setup process and compatibility with various operating systems, making it a practical choice for diverse environments.