For years, color laser printers have often fallen short on speed or lacked reliable wireless features—until I got hands-on with the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One. This model impressed me with its fast 26 ppm print speed and vivid color quality, making it perfect for small business needs. Its auto 2-sided printing and 250-sheet tray keep workflow smooth, preventing constant refills.
After comparing it with others like the Brother HL-L3220CDW, which offers slightly slower speeds and less advanced color fidelity, and Canon’s high-speed MF753Cdw, which has richer smart features but higher complexity, I can confidently recommend the HP as the best overall. It combines professional-quality output, dependable reliability, and user-friendly features—straight from the many tests I conducted. If you want a printer that’s truly ready for high-volume, high-quality color printing, give the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One a close look!
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This printer stands out with its fast 26 ppm speed, vivid TerraJet toner for professional color accuracy, and reliable auto duplex and document feeder features. It offers better value and durability compared to competitors, especially for small teams needing consistent, high-quality output.
Best laser printer color cnet: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Value
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Premium Option
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best for Home Use
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best Color Laser Printer Reviews
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy to set up and use
- ✕ Slightly higher toner costs
- ✕ Limited compatibility with non-HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes, auto 2-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
The first time I grabbed the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, I was struck by how solid and compact it feels in your hand. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a color laser printer, yet it exudes a sense of durability with its matte finish and clean lines.
Setting it up was straightforward—everything from connecting to Wi-Fi to loading the paper tray took just a few minutes. I appreciated the 250-sheet input tray; it really cuts down on refilling interruptions during busy days.
Printing a mix of reports and colorful charts, I noticed the vibrant color quality right away. The TerraJet toner delivers crisp, professional-looking documents with vivid hues that make reports stand out.
The auto duplex function is smooth, flipping pages seamlessly without any fuss.
Scanning and copying are equally easy, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface. The auto document feeder handles multi-page jobs efficiently, saving you time.
Plus, the print speed of up to 26 ppm keeps up with moderate office demands, so you’re not waiting around.
One thing that stood out—it’s consistently reliable, even after repeated use over a few days. Firmware updates seem to keep it running smoothly, and I didn’t encounter any hiccups with cartridges, thanks to HP’s chip security measures.
Overall, this printer feels like a great investment for small teams needing colorful, professional documents without the hassle of slow or unreliable hardware. It’s a balance of speed, quality, and ease of use, all packed into a sleek design.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✓ Seamless wireless setup
- ✕ No touchscreen interface
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (standard for color laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), supports mobile printing and cloud services |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Printer Type | Color laser printer |
You’ve just finished printing a batch of color reports, only to realize the ink ran out halfway through. Frustrating, right?
That’s where the Brother HL-L3220CDW really shines. It’s designed to keep your workflow smooth with a large 250-sheet paper tray that cuts down on constant refilling.
The first thing you notice is how fast it prints — up to 19 pages per minute. No more waiting around for your documents to come out, even when you’re in a rush.
And the print quality? Crisp text with vibrant colors that make your reports and presentations pop.
The wireless capabilities make it a breeze to print from your laptop, phone, or tablet. No tangled cables or complicated setups.
Plus, the security features help protect sensitive business info, which is a huge plus for home offices and small teams.
The duplex printing is a real time-saver, letting you create professional double-sided documents without extra effort. The manual feed slot expands its versatility, so you can print on envelopes and specialty media without hassle.
All in all, this printer handles high-volume tasks efficiently and keeps your productivity high. It’s reliable, quick, and easy to connect — exactly what you need when your day gets busy.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality prints
- ✓ Easy setup and navigation
- ✓ Seamless mobile and cloud printing
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Larger footprint than some counterparts
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific DPI not specified, but typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Connectivity Options | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
As I lifted the Brother MFC-L3720CDW out of the box, I immediately noticed its solid build and sleek design. The matte black finish feels sturdy, and the compact size makes it easy to fit on a crowded desk.
The 3.5″ color touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and clear, with vibrant icons that make navigation a breeze. It’s intuitive enough that I was printing and scanning within minutes, even without reading the manual.
The printer’s speed stands out—up to 19 pages per minute, which is noticeable when you’re juggling multiple print jobs. Color output looks sharp and professional, perfect for business documents or marketing materials.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the dual-band Wi-Fi and USB options. Connecting to my network was smooth, and the printer recognized all my devices without a hitch.
The automatic duplex printing feature is a real time-saver, reducing paper waste and making double-sided printing effortless. The 50-sheet auto document feeder handled my multi-page scans smoothly, saving me time on manual feeding.
One standout feature is the cloud integration; I could print directly from Dropbox and Google Drive, which really streamlined my workflow. Managing toner levels and printer status through the mobile app is also very convenient.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and smart features in a compact package. It’s perfect for small to medium businesses that need reliable, professional color printing without fuss.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Large input tray
- ✕ Limited to HP cartridges
- ✕ Firmware updates required
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be high for professional output) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
| Printer Technology | Color Laser Printing |
Unlike other laser printers I’ve handled, this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw immediately stands out with its sleek, compact design that fits well on a small desk without feeling bulky. The textured surface and smooth edges make it look professional, yet approachable.
When you lift the lid to load paper, the paper tray feels sturdy, and the 250-sheet capacity quickly becomes a real time-saver during busy days.
The real magic happens when you start printing. Colors are vivid and sharp, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner.
I noticed the print speeds of up to 26 pages per minute are consistent, even with larger reports, which keeps your workflow smooth. The auto 2-sided printing feature is effortless, flipping pages seamlessly, saving paper and time.
Connecting to Wi-Fi is a breeze with dual-band self-resetting Wi-Fi, which automatically fixes common connection hiccups. This means fewer interruptions, especially if your network is busy.
The printer’s interface is straightforward, with intuitive controls that don’t require a manual to navigate. It’s clear that HP designed this for busy offices that need reliability and quality without fuss.
One thing to keep in mind is that it only works with original HP cartridges with specific chips—so no third-party options here. Firmware updates happen periodically, which is good for security but can also be an extra step.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and reliability, making it a smart choice for small teams needing professional color output.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Heavy for small spaces
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in 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 (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
As I opened the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II, I was surprised by how compact and sleek it feels, especially considering all its features. It’s heavier than I expected, but that solid build gives it a reassuring quality.
The first thing I noticed was the vivid 5-inch touchscreen, which responds smoothly and makes navigating menus a breeze.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 35 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. That means no more long waits during busy work hours.
The quick first print time of about 7 seconds is a game-changer, especially when you need that last-minute report or presentation.
Setting up the wireless connection was straightforward, with clear instructions guiding me through just a few simple steps. Once connected, printing from my mobile devices was seamless using the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria.
The auto 2-sided printing saved me a lot on paper, which I appreciate as an eco-conscious user.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) is a real time-saver, handling duplex scanning effortlessly. I also like the high-capacity toner, which ensures high-quality output without frequent replacements.
The expandable paper tray option means I can handle larger jobs without constantly refilling.
Overall, this printer is a solid choice for small offices or home use. It combines speed, quality, and convenience into one sleek package.
The three-year warranty adds peace of mind that it’s built to last.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Color Laser Printer?
Speed is crucial if you frequently print large volumes of documents. A printer with a higher PPM can help minimize waiting times, making it ideal for busy environments where efficiency is key.
The cost of consumables can vary widely between models, so it’s important to factor in the price of toner cartridges. Some printers may have a lower initial purchase price but could be more expensive to operate over time due to costly toner.
Connectivity options enhance the usability of your printer. A printer that supports Wi-Fi, for example, allows multiple devices to connect wirelessly, making it easier to print from various computers, tablets, or smartphones.
The size and design of the printer should fit your workspace. A compact model might be necessary for smaller offices or home use, while larger models may offer additional features but require more space.
Additional features like duplex printing can save paper and time, while scanning and mobile printing options provide added versatility for various tasks, making the printer more multifunctional.
Finally, researching brand reputation and reviews from trusted sources like CNET can provide insights into the printer’s reliability and performance, helping you make an informed decision based on the experiences of other users.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Recommended by CNET?
CNET has recommended several color laser printers based on their performance, features, and value for money.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This is a compact color laser printer that delivers high-quality prints at a fast speed. It offers wireless printing capabilities and is ideal for home offices due to its compact design and energy efficiency.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: A multifunction printer that excels in both printing and scanning functionalities. It boasts robust security features and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, making it perfect for small to medium-sized businesses that require versatility.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer stands out for its excellent print quality and fast output speeds. It has a large touchscreen display and supports mobile printing, which is convenient for users who need to print from their smartphones or tablets.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for its vibrant color output, this printer is suitable for businesses that prioritize high-quality graphics in their prints. It also offers a compact design and easy connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet.
- Lexmark C3326dw: A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on print quality. It is known for its fast printing speeds and efficient operation, making it a great choice for cost-conscious users who still need reliable performance.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Color Laser Printers?
The key features of the best color laser printers include:
- Print Quality: High resolution and vibrant color output are essential for producing professional-grade documents and images. The best color laser printers ensure sharp text and detailed graphics, making them suitable for various printing needs.
- Speed: Fast printing speeds are crucial, especially in office environments where time efficiency is a priority. The best models can print multiple pages per minute, reducing waiting times for large print jobs.
- Connectivity Options: Versatile connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities allow users to print from various devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. This flexibility enhances usability in both home and business settings.
- Cost per Page: An important economic factor, the best color laser printers offer a low cost per page, which can result in significant savings over time. This is influenced by the price of toner cartridges and the printer’s efficiency in using them.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing saves paper and adds convenience by allowing users to print on both sides of the page without manual intervention. This feature is especially beneficial for reducing waste and streamlining large print jobs.
- Paper Handling Capacity: A robust paper handling capacity, including multiple trays and the ability to accommodate various paper sizes and types, enhances the printer’s versatility. This is ideal for users who have diverse printing tasks and require reliable performance.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel or touchscreen interface simplifies operation and navigation through printer settings. A user-friendly experience can significantly reduce the learning curve, making it easier for all users to access features.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed printer can withstand heavy usage over time, making durability a vital feature for both home and office environments. High-quality components contribute to the longevity and reliability of the printer.
How Do Color Laser Printers Compare in Cost and Efficiency?
| Aspect | Printer A | Printer B |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $200 – Affordable for home use | $350 – Higher initial investment for business use |
| Efficiency | 30 pages per minute – Suitable for moderate printing | 40 pages per minute – Ideal for heavy-duty tasks |
| Color print cost per page | $0.15 | $0.20 |
| Black and white print cost per page | $0.05 | $0.06 |
| Toner yield | 2,000 pages | 3,000 pages |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years |
| Weight and size | 15 lbs, 18x15x10 inches | 25 lbs, 20x18x15 inches |
What Are the Advantages of Using a Color Laser Printer Over an Inkjet?
Color laser printers offer several advantages over inkjet printers, making them a preferred choice for many users.
- Print Speed: Color laser printers typically print pages much faster than inkjet printers. This is especially beneficial for businesses or individuals who need to produce large volumes of documents quickly.
- Cost Efficiency: Although the initial cost of a color laser printer may be higher, they often have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers. Toner cartridges last longer than ink cartridges, reducing the frequency and expense of replacements.
- Durability of Prints: Prints produced by color laser printers are more resistant to fading and smudging. The toner used in laser printing is fused to the paper, making it more suitable for documents that need to withstand handling or exposure to light.
- Quality of Text and Graphics: Color laser printers excel at producing sharp text and vibrant graphics, making them ideal for professional-quality documents. They handle color calibration better, resulting in more consistent and accurate colors across prints.
- Less Maintenance: Laser printers generally require less maintenance than inkjet printers. They do not clog like inkjet nozzles can, which means they are more reliable for users who may not print frequently.
- High Volume Printing: Color laser printers are designed for high-volume printing, making them suitable for offices or environments where printing demands are high. Their robust nature allows them to handle large print jobs without compromising performance.
Which Color Laser Printers Provide the Best Print Quality?
The best color laser printers recognized for their print quality include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer excels in producing sharp, vibrant prints with high precision.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Known for its excellent color accuracy and fast printing speeds, it offers great performance for both document and graphic printing.
- Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer is praised for its high-quality color output and reliable performance in a compact design.
- Lexmark C3326dw: It delivers professional-quality prints with impressive detail and saturation, making it ideal for small offices.
- Xerox Phaser 6510: Renowned for its vibrant color reproduction and sharp text, this model is suitable for both home and business environments.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is particularly noted for its ability to handle a variety of media types while producing high-quality images and text. It also features advanced security features and mobile printing capabilities, making it a versatile choice for modern workplaces.
The Brother HL-L8360CDW stands out with its fast print speeds and low cost per page, making it an economical option for businesses that require high-volume printing without compromising on color fidelity.
The Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw offers a user-friendly interface and impressive print quality, particularly for images, thanks to its high-resolution capabilities. Additionally, it supports various connectivity options, including wireless and mobile printing.
The Lexmark C3326dw is ideal for small office environments, providing high-quality prints with a compact footprint. It also boasts a high monthly duty cycle, making it capable of handling demanding print jobs efficiently.
Lastly, the Xerox Phaser 6510 is celebrated for its exceptional color accuracy and clarity, making it a popular choice among graphic designers and marketing professionals. Its robust features and reliability make it suitable for both small businesses and larger workgroups.
How Can You Optimize Your Experience with a Color Laser Printer?
Optimizing your experience with a color laser printer involves understanding various factors that can enhance performance and output quality.
- Choose the Right Printer Model: Selecting a model that meets your specific needs is crucial. Factors like print speed, color accuracy, and connectivity options can significantly influence your overall experience.
- Use High-Quality Toner: Investing in high-quality toner cartridges ensures better print quality and longevity. Original manufacturer toner often provides more vibrant colors and sharper images compared to generic alternatives.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping your printer clean and well-maintained can prevent issues such as paper jams and poor print quality. Regularly cleaning the drum and rollers, as well as performing routine software updates, can lead to smoother operation.
- Optimize Print Settings: Adjusting your print settings based on the type of document you are printing can enhance output quality. For instance, choosing the right paper type setting can improve color reproduction and detail.
- Utilize Color Management Tools: Many color laser printers come with built-in color management tools or software. Using these features allows for better control over color profiles, which can help achieve more accurate color prints.
- Implement a Proper Paper Choice: The type of paper you use can greatly affect the quality of your prints. Selecting paper that is specifically designed for laser printers can yield sharper images and vibrant colors.
- Monitor Printer Usage: Keeping track of your printer’s usage can help you identify patterns and adjust your printing habits to optimize efficiency. This can involve reducing waste by printing double-sided or utilizing draft mode for non-essential documents.