The first thing that struck me about the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color wasn’t just its impressive speed or vibrant color output but its surprisingly compact footprint. After hands-on tests, I found it fits seamlessly into tiny home offices or small desks without sacrificing features. Its fast 26 ppm printing and auto duplex make multi-page jobs effortless, while the 250-sheet tray keeps refills to a minimum—huge time-saver. This printer handled high-volume tasks with smooth reliability, thanks to HP’s proven build quality and smart features like auto scanning and copying.
Compared to others, like the Brother HL-L3280CDW with faster speeds or the versatile Brother MFC-L3720CDW, the HP offers a balanced combo of size, speed, and professional print quality. Its reputation for stability and vivid color rendering really sets it apart, making it ideal for small teams that demand crisp, consistent results. From my testing, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw truly combines compactness with power—definitely my top pick for a small footprint color laser printer.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in compact size while offering high-speed printing up to 26 ppm, auto duplex capability, and a large 250-sheet tray. Its professional-quality color and reliability outshine competitors like Brother models, which, despite speed or features, are bulkier or lack the same ease of use. The HP’s proven durability and vivid output make it the best overall choice for small spaces requiring serious performance.
Best small footprint color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best all-in-one wireless color laser printer
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best high-speed color laser printer
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best compact color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best budget color laser printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality color output
- ✓ Easy setup and connectivity
- ✕ Only compatible with HP cartridges
- ✕ Limited to small workgroups
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | HP 218A standard and HP 218X high-yield cartridges |
As soon as I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, I was struck by how compact and sleek it looks. It’s surprisingly light for a laser printer, with a sturdy build that feels solid but not bulky.
The matte finish and minimalistic design make it blend effortlessly into a small office or home workspace.
The control panel is straightforward, with a responsive touchscreen that’s easy to navigate. Setting up Wi-Fi was a breeze—within minutes, I was able to connect it to my network without fuss.
The 250-sheet input tray is perfect for handling multiple reports or color documents without constant refilling.
Printing speeds are genuinely fast—up to 26 pages per minute, whether in black or color. The first page pops out quickly, even for complex color reports.
The TerraJet toner produces vibrant, professional-quality images that really stand out, especially on marketing materials or presentations.
Scanning and copying are equally smooth, thanks to the automatic document feeder. I appreciated how quiet it runs, even during busy print jobs.
Auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, reducing paper waste and making double-sided reports effortless.
Performance feels reliable, with consistent quality and no jams or glitches so far. It’s clear this model is built for small teams that need professional results without sacrificing space.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it only works with HP chips in cartridges, so non-HP options are off the table. Overall, it’s a smart, reliable choice for compact color laser printing.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality output
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner replacements
- ✕ No fax functionality
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (standard for laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with laptops, smartphones, and tablets |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Media Compatibility | Standard paper, envelopes, and specialty media |
You’re sitting at your desk, trying to print a batch of colorful reports before a meeting, and realize your old printer is taking forever or, worse, refusing to connect. You grab the Brother Color Laser Printer, slide it onto your compact desk corner, and notice how sleek and space-efficient it looks—no bulky footprint here.
Once powered on, the setup is straightforward—thanks to the wireless connection that kicks in quickly. You send your documents from your phone, and it whirs to life, delivering crisp text and vibrant graphics at an impressive 19 pages per minute.
The print quality feels professional enough to impress clients, yet it’s easy enough for everyday home office needs.
The 250-sheet paper tray means fewer refills, which is a huge time-saver during busy days. Plus, the manual feed slot adds versatility for printing on envelopes or specialty media without fuss.
Automatic duplex printing is a game-changer, letting you print double-sided documents effortlessly, saving both time and paper.
Mobile printing works seamlessly with your favorite apps and cloud services, so you can print directly from your tablet or smartphone without any hassle. The built-in security protocols give you peace of mind when handling sensitive documents, especially if you’re sharing the printer with a small team or family.
Overall, this printer balances compact design with high-quality performance, making it ideal for small offices or busy home setups. It’s a reliable, fast, and versatile choice that keeps your workflow smooth without taking over your space.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✕ No fax functionality
- ✕ Slightly higher toner costs
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Speed | 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, supports printing from cloud-based apps |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
As soon as I unboxed the Brother HL-L3280CDW, I was struck by how compact and sleek it looks. The glossy black finish and smooth edges make it feel right at home on a cluttered desk or small shelf.
Its lightweight build means I could easily move it around without breaking a sweat.
The 2.7-inch touchscreen is surprisingly responsive and intuitive. I loved how quickly I could navigate menus and select cloud apps like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Printing from my phone or laptop was seamless thanks to its wireless capabilities, which felt instant and reliable.
What really impressed me was the print speed—up to 27 pages per minute. That’s a huge time-saver during busy work days.
The automatic duplex feature made double-sided printing effortless, which is perfect for saving paper and reducing clutter.
Color quality is sharp and vibrant, even for graphics or charts. The laser output feels professional, making it ideal for documents that need a polished look.
Plus, the compact size doesn’t compromise on paper capacity, so I could print multiple jobs without constant refilling.
Setup was straightforward, with clear instructions and quick wireless pairing. The overall experience felt like I had a reliable, no-fuss printer that fits perfectly in a small space but still delivers high-quality results.
It’s a great choice if you want a powerful yet space-conscious color laser printer for everyday use.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast, laser-quality prints
- ✓ Easy mobile integration
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
- ✕ No fax function
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity 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 |
So, I finally got my hands on the Brother MFC-L3720CDW after it’s been sitting on my wishlist for months. I was curious if it truly lives up to hype as a compact, all-in-one color laser printer that fits in tight spaces.
The first thing that caught my eye was its surprisingly small footprint—it doesn’t take over the entire desk, yet it feels solid and professional. The 3.5″ color touchscreen is a game changer, making navigation quick and intuitive.
I love how I can customize shortcuts for frequently used functions, saving me time.
Print speeds are impressive for a small device—up to 19 pages per minute, which is plenty for busy workdays. The laser-quality output makes documents look sharp, even from a distance.
The automatic duplex printing is smooth, so I don’t have to worry about flipping pages manually.
Connectivity options are a highlight. Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB mean I can connect from almost any device without fuss.
Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated the mobile app that lets me print and manage toner levels remotely. It’s perfect for someone who wants hassle-free printing on the go.
The paper capacity is decent with a 250-sheet tray, and the 50-sheet auto document feeder handles scans and copies efficiently. Overall, it’s a reliable, fast, and space-saving printer that handles demanding office tasks with ease.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-efficient
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred high resolution for laser printers) |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Printer Technology | Color laser printing |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to maintain cartridge authenticity |
There I was, trying to print a batch of colorful reports before a big presentation, and this little HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw sat quietly on my desk, ready to go. It’s compact enough to fit in tight spaces, yet it feels solid in your hands, with a sleek black finish and a manageable size that doesn’t scream “office equipment.”
Once I powered it on, I immediately appreciated how quick the setup was, thanks to its self-resetting dual-band Wi-Fi. Connecting my laptop was a breeze—no tangled cables or complicated instructions.
The printer’s auto 2-sided printing feature is a game-changer for saving paper, especially during long print sessions.
Printing speed is impressive—up to 26 pages per minute, whether in black or color. The vivid colors from the TerraJet toner really made my reports stand out, giving that professional punch I was aiming for.
The 250-sheet input tray is perfect for handling larger jobs without constant refills, and the auto duplex function kept my workload efficient.
Throughout the process, I noticed how reliable it felt—no jams, no hiccups. The design is thoughtfully minimal, fitting comfortably on a small desk while still packing powerful features.
It’s clear that HP built this for small teams that need consistent, high-quality output without sacrificing space or speed.
Overall, this printer makes everyday business printing straightforward, fast, and vibrant, all in a compact footprint. It’s a solid choice if you want a reliable, professional-quality color laser printer that won’t clutter your workspace.
What Is a Small Footprint Color Laser Printer?
The relevance of small footprint color laser printers is particularly pronounced in today’s fast-paced business environments. As organizations strive for efficiency, these printers provide a practical solution for handling color documents, marketing materials, and presentations without the bulk of traditional printers. Furthermore, the ability to print high-quality color images makes them suitable for creative industries, allowing for professional-quality outputs in a compact form.
Statistics indicate that the global color laser printer market is projected to grow significantly, driven by the rising demand for high-quality printing in various sectors. The compact design of these printers not only saves space but also reduces energy consumption, contributing to more sustainable office practices. For instance, many small footprint color laser printers are ENERGY STAR certified, which highlights their efficiency and environmental benefits.
To maximize the benefits of a small footprint color laser printer, users should consider best practices such as selecting a model that meets their specific printing volume needs, regularly maintaining the printer to ensure optimal performance, and utilizing compatible toner cartridges to achieve cost-effective printing. Additionally, leveraging cloud printing features and mobile applications can enhance accessibility and convenience, making it easier to print from various devices.
Why Choose a Small Footprint Color Laser Printer?
This happens because small footprint color laser printers are designed to optimize space without sacrificing performance, making them ideal for home offices or small businesses.
According to a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC), compact printers have seen a rise in demand due to the increasing trend of remote work and the need for efficient use of limited office space (IDC, 2021). These printers combine advanced technology with a smaller design, allowing users to enjoy high-quality color printing while keeping their work environments uncluttered.
The underlying mechanism for this trend is the evolution of laser printer technology, which has progressed to become more energy-efficient and capable of producing vibrant color prints in smaller sizes. Innovations such as integrated components and improved toner formulations have led to printers that can deliver professional-quality prints in a compact form factor. Additionally, the shift towards digital workflows has increased the necessity for devices that can fit seamlessly into tight spaces, as users seek multifunctional devices that can also handle scanning and copying without requiring extra room (Gartner, 2022).
How Do Small Footprint Color Laser Printers Compare to Standard Laser Printers?
| Aspect | Small Footprint Color Laser Printers | Standard Laser Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact design ideal for small spaces and home offices. | Larger units often require dedicated space in offices. |
| Print Quality | Good color output but may vary by model. | Generally excellent quality, especially for text and graphics. |
| Cost | Usually higher price due to compact technology. | Often more affordable with lower initial investment. |
| Speed | Moderate speed, often slower than standard printers. | Typically faster print speeds suitable for high-volume tasks. |
| Power Consumption | Generally lower power consumption, suitable for energy-efficient setups. | Higher power consumption, may require more energy for operation. |
| Connectivity Options | Often include wireless connectivity options. | May offer limited connectivity, primarily USB or Ethernet. |
| Maintenance and Toner Costs | Higher maintenance costs due to smaller cartridges. | Lower maintenance costs with larger toner cartridges. |
| Noise Levels | Typically quieter operation. | May produce more noise during operation. |
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Small Footprint Color Laser Printer?
Print quality is determined by the printer’s resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI values generally yield better color accuracy and detail, which is particularly important for graphics and presentations.
Print speed is a vital feature for efficiency, especially in office settings where multiple documents need to be processed quickly. Look for printers that offer competitive PPM rates to ensure you can keep up with demand.
Connectivity options like USB and Wi-Fi allow users to print from various devices, including smartphones and tablets, adding flexibility to how you manage your printing tasks. Mobile printing capabilities, such as Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint, are also beneficial for modern workflows.
The cost of consumables, including toner and replacement parts, can significantly affect the total cost of ownership. It’s advisable to calculate the long-term costs to avoid unexpected expenses down the road.
Energy efficiency is not only eco-friendly but can also lead to savings on electricity bills over time. Look for printers with Energy Star ratings or other energy-saving certifications.
Ease of use encompasses the printer’s interface, setup process, and maintenance requirements. Features like touchscreen displays and guided installation can simplify operation for all users.
Durability and warranty are indicators of the printer’s build quality and reliability. A solid warranty can provide additional protection and support, ensuring you have assistance in case of any issues.
How Important is Print Speed for Small Footprint Color Laser Printers?
Print speed is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating small footprint color laser printers, especially for efficiency in home or small office environments.
- Efficiency in Workflow: High print speeds significantly enhance workflow efficiency, allowing users to print documents quickly without prolonged waiting times. This is particularly important in busy settings where multiple users require access to a printer.
- Impact on Productivity: Faster print speeds can directly correlate with increased productivity, as fewer interruptions for printing tasks allow individuals to focus on their work. This is essential in high-demand environments where time management is critical.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While printers with higher print speeds may come with a higher upfront cost, the time saved can lead to overall cost savings in a business context. Reduced waiting times can improve employee satisfaction and reduce frustration associated with slow printers.
- Print Quality vs. Speed Trade-Off: Some printers may compromise on print quality when operating at higher speeds, which can be a consideration for users who need high-quality output. It’s important to find a balance that meets your specific printing requirements without sacrificing quality.
- Specifications and Ratings: When selecting the best small footprint color laser printer, looking at the pages per minute (PPM) rating is essential. This metric provides a clear comparison between models and helps set expectations for print speeds.
What is the Ideal Print Quality for Compact Laser Printers?
Ideal print quality for compact laser printers refers to the optimal clarity, color accuracy, and detail rendered in printed materials while maintaining a small physical footprint. This quality is essential for users seeking high-resolution documents, images, or graphics in environments where space is limited, such as small offices or home offices.
According to the Consumer Technology Association, compact laser printers are designed to deliver high-quality prints with resolutions typically ranging from 600 to 2400 dots per inch (dpi) (CTA, 2022). This range ensures that text is sharp and images are vibrant, making them suitable for both professional and personal use.
Key aspects of ideal print quality in compact laser printers include color accuracy, print speed, and the ability to handle various media types. Color accuracy is crucial for users needing precise reproduction of graphics or photographs, while print speed affects productivity, particularly in busy environments. Additionally, the ability to print on different media types, such as cardstock or glossy paper, broadens the printer’s usability for various projects.
This impacts users significantly, as high print quality can enhance communication through clearer documents and more attractive marketing materials. For instance, a study by InfoTrends indicates that businesses using high-quality color prints can improve customer engagement by up to 70%, highlighting the importance of print quality in business communication.
Benefits of achieving ideal print quality in compact laser printers include reduced operational costs due to less ink consumption per page compared to inkjet printers, as well as lower frequency of maintenance issues. Users also experience the convenience of having a multi-functional device that saves space without compromising on performance.
Best practices for ensuring high print quality include regular maintenance of the printer, such as cleaning the toner cartridges and keeping the printer free from dust and debris. Additionally, using high-quality paper and appropriate settings for the type of document being printed can further enhance the output quality. Manufacturers like HP and Brother provide guidelines to optimize performance and achieve the best results possible.
What Are the Best Under-the-Radar Small Footprint Color Laser Printers?
Some of the best under-the-radar small footprint color laser printers include:
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This compact printer is known for its fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, making it a great choice for small offices or home use.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: The M255dw offers impressive print quality and wireless connectivity in a sleek design, perfect for users who need reliable performance without taking up too much space.
- Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: This printer balances size and functionality well, providing vibrant color prints and a user-friendly interface, catering to those looking for efficiency in a small package.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: A robust option that delivers both performance and compactness, the Phaser 6510 is ideal for small businesses seeking professional-quality prints in a small footprint.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Lexmark’s offering combines small size with powerful features, including mobile printing and a long-lasting toner, making it suitable for tight workspaces.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW is a versatile printer that excels in both speed and print quality, producing vibrant colors and sharp text. Its compact design makes it an excellent fit for smaller areas, and it supports wireless printing, which enhances convenience for users with multiple devices.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw stands out for its exceptional print quality and modern features such as mobile printing and compatibility with various cloud services. Its small footprint allows it to fit easily on a desk or shelf, while still providing high-volume printing capabilities.
Canon’s Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw is designed for efficiency without sacrificing quality, offering impressive color accuracy and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Its compact build is ideal for home offices or small businesses that require reliable printing in limited space.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI combines a small design with professional-grade printing capabilities, making it suitable for environments where space is at a premium but high-quality output is still a necessity. It features advanced security options and mobile printing capabilities, catering to modern workplace needs.
Lastly, the Lexmark C3326dw offers a strong combination of size and functionality, featuring a compact design that doesn’t compromise on performance. With its long-lasting toner and mobile printing options, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to maximize efficiency in a small workspace.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Small Footprint Color Laser Printers?
Cost-effectiveness is frequently mentioned, as users find that despite the initial investment, the lower cost-per-page of laser printing leads to savings over time, particularly for those who print regularly. This financial aspect often influences purchasing decisions for both home and office environments.
Ease of use is highlighted by users who find the setup straightforward and the operation intuitive. This aspect is crucial for users who may not be tech-savvy, ensuring a seamless transition to a new printing device.
Reliability is a key factor for many users, as they report fewer breakdowns and maintenance needs with these printers. This reliability ensures that users can depend on their printer to perform consistently without frequent interruptions.
Versatility is appreciated by those who utilize their printers for various tasks, with users enjoying the capability to print on different media types, expanding the printer’s usefulness beyond standard paper. This flexibility makes small footprint color laser printers suitable for a wide range of applications.
How Much Should You Expect to Spend on a Quality Small Footprint Color Laser Printer?
When considering the cost of a quality small footprint color laser printer, several factors come into play, including initial purchase price, maintenance costs, and additional features.
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of a small footprint color laser printer typically ranges from $200 to $600 depending on the brand, model, and features. Models with advanced functionalities or higher print speeds may be on the higher end of this spectrum.
- Cartridge Replacement Costs: Color laser printers use toner cartridges, which can be expensive to replace. Expect to spend between $50 to $150 for a full set of toner cartridges, and keep in mind that the yield of these cartridges can vary significantly based on the model.
- Maintenance and Repair Costs: Regular maintenance can add to your overall expenditure. Some printers may require periodic servicing or replacement parts, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 over time, depending on the frequency of use and the specific issues encountered.
- Networking and Connectivity Features: Printers with advanced networking features, such as wireless printing and mobile compatibility, may have a higher price tag. These features enhance usability but can add an additional $50 to $100 to the cost of the printer.
- Additional Features: Considerations like automatic duplexing, scanning, and copying capabilities can affect the price. While these features enhance functionality, they can increase the price by $100 or more, depending on the model.