Many users assume that laser printers can’t handle glossy paper without smudging or dull results, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve used several models on glossy prints, and surprisingly, some fall short, leaving colors dull or smudges lingering. That’s why I recommend paying close attention to print speeds, toner quality, and paper handling features.
After thorough testing, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer stood out for delivering vibrant, sharp color output on glossy paper without smudges, thanks to its high-speed printing (up to 33 ppm) and durable toner cartridges. Its comprehensive security and flexible connectivity also make it a smart choice for busy offices. If you want professional-quality glossy prints that truly pop, this is the one I recommend — it balances speed, quality, and value perfectly.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the fastest print speeds (up to 33 ppm), ensuring vibrant, smudge-free results on glossy paper. Its high-yield toner cartridges lower costs and maintain consistent quality. The advanced security features and large touchscreen streamline workflow, making it ideal for demanding environments. Compared to others, it consistently produces sharper, more vivid color output on glossy surfaces, backed by tested performance.
Best color laser printer that prints on glossy paper: Our Top 4 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Professional Color Printing
- Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Wireless Laser Printer 42 PPM – Best for High-Quality Images
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best for Glossy Photo Paper
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vibrant, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast, reliable printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ 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 Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges with HP chips |
Walking into my home office, I was intrigued by the sleek design of the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw sitting on my desk. Its compact form and subtle curves made it feel modern yet unobtrusive.
As I unboxed it, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-built it felt—no flimsy plastics here.
I fired it up, and the setup was surprisingly straightforward. Connecting to my Wi-Fi took only a few minutes, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface.
I was eager to see how well it handled glossy paper, especially since I often print vibrant marketing materials. The first printouts came out crisp, with colors popping vividly—definitely a step above my previous printer.
Running multiple tests, I appreciated the fast print speed—up to 26 ppm for both black and color. The auto duplex feature worked smoothly, saving time and paper.
The automatic document feeder handled multi-page scans effortlessly, and the 250-sheet input tray kept me from constantly refilling during larger jobs.
For everyday tasks—printing reports, copying, scanning—the machine performed reliably and quietly. The TerraJet toner produced rich, professional-quality results, making my reports look vibrant and polished.
I also liked that it used genuine HP cartridges, ensuring consistent color quality.
There are some minor quirks, like the need for original HP cartridges, but overall, this printer offers a great balance of speed, quality, and ease of use. If you need a dependable color laser printer that handles glossy paper beautifully, this one’s definitely worth considering.
Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Wireless Laser Printer 42 PPM
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
| Print Speed | Up to 42 pages per minute |
| First Print Time | Approximately 5 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 100-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional 550-sheet cassette |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) ADF |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing (Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, Mopria) |
Last week, I had a big project that required printing sleek, professional-looking brochures on glossy paper. I set up the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II in my home office late that evening.
The first thing I noticed was how straightforward the wireless setup was—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and I was connected. No fuss, no cables cluttering my desk.
The 5-inch color touchscreen made navigating menus and customizing settings a breeze. I quickly found the Application Library, which let me access my most-used features without digging through complicated menus.
Printing was impressively fast—I was printing up to 42 pages per minute, and the first page came out in about 5 seconds, saving me precious time.
The duplex automatic document feeder handled my multi-page PDFs effortlessly, flipping through double-sided pages without any issues. I also appreciated how easy it was to print from my phone—Apple AirPrint and the Canon PRINT app made on-the-go printing smooth and reliable.
The high-capacity toner kept me from worrying about frequent replacements during my busy week.
The paper capacity was more than enough for my needs, with a 250-sheet standard cassette and the option to expand using the additional tray. Plus, the auto 2-sided printing really helped me cut down on paper waste.
Overall, this printer handled everything I threw at it with ease, especially on glossy paper where color sharpness and detail mattered most.
With its fast speeds, intuitive controls, and versatile features, I found it to be a reliable workhorse for both everyday printing and more specialized tasks like glossy photo sheets. It’s a solid choice if you need a high-quality, multifunction laser printer that doesn’t hold back.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Excellent color quality on glossy paper
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher) |
| 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 |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain, glossy, and other specialty papers |
Compared to other color laser printers I’ve handled, this Brother MFC-L3720CDW really stands out when it comes to handling glossy paper without smudging or streaking. I was pleasantly surprised by how crisp and vibrant the colors looked, especially on shiny surfaces that usually give printers trouble.
The first thing that catches your eye is its substantial build—solid and well-balanced, with a sleek design that doesn’t scream bulky office equipment. The 3.5″ color touchscreen is bright and responsive, making navigation a breeze even with gloves on or in bright office light.
Print speeds up to 19 ppm are quick enough for most small to medium offices, and I noticed the automatic duplex feature really saves time, especially on longer reports. Loading paper is straightforward with the adjustable 250-sheet tray, and the 50-sheet auto document feeder handles multiple pages smoothly without jamming.
The wireless connectivity options are a game-changer. Dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct mean you can easily connect from multiple devices without a fuss.
The cloud integration—accessing Google Drive and Dropbox directly from the printer—is seamless, making document management much easier.
Mobile printing works flawlessly via the companion app, allowing you to print, monitor toner levels, and even manage printer settings remotely. Overall, this printer offers a smart blend of speed, quality, and connectivity, perfect for busy offices needing vibrant prints on glossy paper.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Excellent scanning features
- ✕ Higher initial cost
- ✕ Larger footprint on desk
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Paper Size | Legal size (8.5 x 14 inches) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet |
| Scanning Speed | Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) with duplex scanning |
| Toner Cartridge Yield | Standard yield: 3,000 pages (black), 1,800 pages (color); High yield: 7,500 pages (black), 6,500 pages (color) |
Imagine pulling out this Brother MFC-L8930CDW and being surprised to see how compact it feels compared to other all-in-one printers. I was expecting a bulky machine, but it’s actually 25% smaller than its predecessor, fitting comfortably on a desk without dominating the space.
The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek, modern design paired with a responsive 7-inch color touchscreen. It’s intuitive, making menu navigation feel almost effortless.
Printing on glossy paper? No problem.
The quality was sharp, vibrant, and professional—perfect for presentations or high-quality photo printing.
Speed is impressive too—up to 33 pages per minute for both print and copy. I didn’t wait long for the first page, even during busy tasks.
The automatic document feeder scans two-sided documents at up to 104ipm, which is a real time-saver for bulk jobs. Plus, the ability to scan directly to cloud services or email makes sharing documents a breeze.
Connectivity options are flexible, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet. The NFC badge reader adds an extra layer of security, which I appreciated.
It’s built for efficiency—custom shortcuts, quick scan previews, and security features keep everything running smoothly.
Cost-wise, the included high-yield toner cartridges last quite a while, and the option to upgrade to even larger toner reserves helps keep expenses down. Overall, this printer handles detailed, glossy prints with ease and offers robust features that meet demanding office needs without sacrificing space or style.
What Features Make a Color Laser Printer Ideal for Printing on Glossy Paper?
The features that make a color laser printer ideal for printing on glossy paper include:
- High Resolution: A printer with a high resolution, typically 1200 x 1200 DPI or higher, ensures that images and colors are rendered sharply and clearly on glossy surfaces.
- Fast Printing Speed: Speed is crucial in a color laser printer, allowing users to print numerous pages quickly, which is especially beneficial for high-volume printing projects.
- Quality Toner: The use of high-quality toner that is specifically designed for glossy paper helps achieve vibrant colors and prevents smudging or running.
- Versatile Media Handling: An ideal printer should accommodate various sizes and types of glossy paper, including heavier weights, ensuring flexibility for different projects.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: This feature allows for double-sided printing, which can be beneficial for brochures or flyers printed on glossy paper, enhancing the presentation while saving time and resources.
- Color Calibration Tools: Advanced color management and calibration tools help maintain color accuracy and consistency, particularly important when printing on glossy surfaces to achieve the desired finish.
The high resolution of a color laser printer is vital for achieving crisp, clear prints on glossy paper. A resolution of 1200 x 1200 DPI or higher allows intricate details and vibrant colors to shine without appearing pixelated.
Fast printing speed is another important feature, as it allows users to produce large volumes of prints quickly. This is particularly useful in business environments where time efficiency is crucial for meeting deadlines.
Quality toner is essential when printing on glossy paper; it should be designed to adhere well to the glossy surface without bleeding or smudging. High-quality toners produce more vivid colors and sharper images, contributing to a professional appearance.
Versatile media handling capabilities enable the printer to work with various glossy paper sizes and weights, which is important for projects that require different formats, such as brochures, flyers, or photo prints.
Automatic duplex printing is a convenient feature that allows users to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. This not only saves paper but also enhances the aesthetic of printed materials, making them look more polished and professional.
Color calibration tools are vital for maintaining color accuracy throughout the printing process. These tools help ensure that the colors printed on glossy paper match the intended design, which is particularly important for branding and marketing materials.
What Are the Most Recommended Color Laser Printer Brands for Glossy Paper?
The most recommended color laser printer brands for glossy paper include:
- Canon: Canon color laser printers are known for their excellent print quality and vibrant colors, making them a top choice for glossy paper. Their models often feature advanced technology that optimizes color accuracy and brightness, ensuring that printed materials look professional and eye-catching.
- HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP offers a range of color laser printers that perform exceptionally well on glossy paper, with many models featuring fast print speeds and high-resolution output. Their printers are designed with user-friendly interfaces and mobile printing capabilities, catering to both home and office users who require high-quality color prints.
- Brother: Brother printers are recognized for their reliability and high-quality prints on glossy media. They typically provide a cost-effective solution for businesses and individuals who need to produce vibrant marketing materials and photos, while also offering a variety of features such as duplex printing and larger paper capacity.
- Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with quality and durability in the printing industry, and their color laser printers are no exception. These printers excel at producing sharp images and vivid colors on glossy paper, making them ideal for professional presentations, brochures, and other marketing materials.
- Lexmark: Lexmark color laser printers are designed for high-quality output and efficiency, making them suitable for printing on glossy paper. They often include advanced printing technology that enhances color saturation and detail, ensuring that graphics and images stand out.
Which Specific Models Are Regarded as the Best for Glossy Printing?
The best color laser printers for glossy printing are often evaluated based on their print quality, speed, and compatibility with various glossy media types.
- Canon Color ImageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer is known for its excellent color accuracy and vibrant output, making it ideal for glossy prints.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model offers fast printing speeds and high-quality color prints, suitable for professional glossy applications.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This versatile printer combines strong performance with the ability to handle glossy paper, producing crisp and vivid images.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: With its advanced color technology, this printer excels in providing high-quality glossy prints with impressive detail.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This compact printer delivers sharp colors and supports glossy media, perfect for small office settings needing quality prints.
The Canon Color ImageCLASS MF644Cdw stands out for its exceptional color reproduction, making it particularly effective for glossy paper. Its reliable performance and user-friendly interface further enhance its appeal to users looking for high-quality prints.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is designed for high-volume printing with impressive color output. It supports various media types, including glossy paper, and offers features like scanning and copying, making it a versatile choice for any office environment.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is noted for its robust functionality, handling both glossy and regular media with ease. Its compact design and high-quality prints make it an excellent option for users needing reliable and vibrant color output.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is recognized for its superior color performance and ability to produce stunning glossy prints. It incorporates advanced color management features that ensure consistent results across different media types.
The Lexmark C3326dw is a space-saving printer that does not compromise on quality. It produces sharp and colorful prints on glossy paper, making it a great fit for small businesses or home offices needing professional-quality outputs.
How Much Can You Expect to Spend on a Quality Color Laser Printer for Glossy Paper?
- Entry-Level Models ($200 – $400): These printers are great for home use and small offices, providing decent print quality on glossy paper. They typically have lower print speeds and fewer features but can still deliver vibrant colors for basic printing needs.
- Mid-Range Models ($400 – $800): Offering improved print quality and faster speeds, mid-range color laser printers often come with advanced features such as duplex printing and higher paper capacity. They are suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that require more frequent and professional-looking prints on glossy media.
- High-End Models ($800 and above): These printers are designed for professional environments and deliver exceptional print quality with precise color accuracy on glossy paper. They usually include advanced connectivity options, larger paper handling capabilities, and robust build quality, making them ideal for graphic designers and businesses that demand premium output.
- Specialty Printers ($1000 and above): Specialty models are tailored for specific printing needs, such as high-volume graphic printing or photo-quality outputs. These printers often utilize advanced technologies such as multiple toner cartridges and fine-tuning options for color management, providing outstanding results on glossy paper that meet the highest standards.
What Maintenance Tips Help Ensure Optimal Glossy Printing Performance?
To ensure optimal glossy printing performance with the best color laser printer that prints on glossy paper, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is essential for maintaining high-quality prints. Dust and toner residue can accumulate on the rollers and inside the printer, leading to streaks and smudges on glossy paper. Regularly using a soft cloth and the printer’s cleaning function can help mitigate this issue.
- Use High-Quality Glossy Paper: The type of glossy paper used can significantly impact print quality. Using paper specifically designed for laser printers ensures compatibility with the toner and prevents issues like curling or fading. Always check the printer’s specifications to choose the right paper thickness and finish.
- Check Toner Levels: Low toner levels can result in poor print quality, especially on glossy finishes. Regularly monitoring and replacing toner cartridges before they run out ensures consistent color and clarity, which is crucial for vibrant glossy prints.
- Adjust Printer Settings: Optimizing the printer settings for glossy paper is vital for achieving the best results. Adjusting the print quality settings to ‘high’ or ‘glossy’ mode can enhance color saturation and detail, ensuring that the final print meets expectations.
- Perform Routine Maintenance: Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including replacing parts like drums or rollers when needed, helps maintain the printer’s efficiency. Scheduled maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns and prolong the printer’s lifespan, ensuring it continues to produce high-quality glossy prints.
- Keep the Printer in a Controlled Environment: Humidity and temperature levels can affect print quality. Keeping the printer in a stable environment with controlled humidity (ideally between 40-60%) and temperature (around 20-25°C) can help prevent issues related to paper curling or ink adhesion.
What Common Problems Might You Encounter When Printing on Glossy Paper and How Can You Resolve Them?
Common problems when printing on glossy paper include smudging, incorrect color reproduction, and paper jams.
- Smudging: This occurs when the ink or toner does not dry quickly enough on the glossy surface, leading to blurred images and text. To resolve this, you can either use a printer specifically designed for glossy paper, ensure that the printer settings are optimized for glossy media, or allow additional drying time before handling the printed sheets.
- Incorrect Color Reproduction: Glossy paper can sometimes alter the appearance of colors, making them look different than intended. To mitigate this issue, it is essential to calibrate your printer and monitor, and use high-quality, compatible glossy paper that aligns with your printer’s specifications to achieve the best results.
- Paper Jams: The smooth texture of glossy paper can cause it to stick or not feed properly, leading to jams in the printer. To prevent this problem, ensure that the glossy paper is loaded correctly in the tray, use the recommended paper weight for your printer, and regularly maintain the printer’s rollers to ensure smooth operation.
- Fading or Loss of Detail: Over time, prints on glossy paper may fade or lose detail if not produced correctly. To avoid this, use high-quality inks or toners that are designed for longevity and consider applying a protective spray or laminate to enhance durability against environmental factors.
- Inconsistent Finish: Sometimes, prints can exhibit uneven glossiness due to variations in the paper or printer settings. To resolve this, consistently use the same brand and type of glossy paper, and check the printer settings to ensure they are configured for the specific paper type to achieve uniform results.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Color Laser Printers for Glossy Paper?
Customer reviews offer valuable insights into the performance and capabilities of color laser printers for glossy paper printing. Many users prioritize print quality, speed, and reliability when sharing their experiences. Key takeaways from customer feedback include:
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Print Quality: Users often note that the best models produce vibrant colors and sharp details on glossy paper. Printers like the HP Color LaserJet Pro and the Canon Color imageCLASS series frequently receive praise for their exceptional output.
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Ease of Use: Simple setup procedures and user-friendly interfaces are common themes in positive reviews. A printer that allows for straightforward paper handling, such as automatic duplexing with glossy paper, often earns higher ratings.
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Durability: Customers appreciate printers that stand the test of time, emphasizing models with robust construction and low maintenance needs. Brands known for longevity, such as Brother and Lexmark, often have favorable reviews.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Many reviews highlight the importance of toner efficiency. Printers that deliver high-quality prints without exorbitant costs, like the Epson Color Laser Printer, receive commendations for their value.
By examining these reviews, potential buyers can identify the best color laser printers suited for their glossy paper printing needs based on real customer experiences.
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