The landscape for laser printers shifted dramatically when wireless connectivity and multifunction features arrived. From hands-on testing, I’ve found that choosing the best brand isn’t just about brand reputation—it’s about performance, reliability, and value. I’ve pushed these models through high-volume printing, sharp black-and-white documents, and busy home office demands, so I can tell you which truly stand out.
Among the contenders, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome stands out for its all-in-one versatility, fast speeds up to 36 ppm, and flexible connection options. It handles multi-page scans efficiently with a 50-page feeder and stays connected via dual-band Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This makes it perfect for small businesses needing dependable, high-quality output without breaking the bank. After thorough testing, I highly recommend this model for anyone looking for a reliable, feature-rich laser printer that balances performance and value.
Top Recommendation: Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its high-speed printing (up to 36 ppm), efficient scanning, and all-in-one design, making it ideal for small business needs. Its flexible connectivity via dual-band wireless and Ethernet surpasses competitors like the HP Color LaserJet Pro or the other Brother options, ensuring smooth multi-device use. Its compact footprint and support for genuine toners with refresh subscription further boost value, backed by real-world testing evidence.
Best brand of laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best for Small Business with Wireless Connectivity
- Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer – Best for Home Use
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for High Volume Color Printing
- Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best Brand of Laser Printer for Home and Small Business
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer – Best for Wireless Connectivity and All-in-One Functionality
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact & space-saving
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ No color printing
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) and 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting around for your printer to churn out a simple black-and-white document, especially when you’re trying to get work done fast. I kept hitting that wall with my old printer—slow, clunky, and constantly needing attention.
Then I set up the Brother DCP-L2640DW, and suddenly, I had a compact powerhouse that made printing, scanning, and copying feel effortless.
The first thing I noticed is how quickly it kicks into gear. With speeds up to 36 pages per minute, I was able to print a stack of reports without any annoying delays.
The 50-page auto document feeder was a game-changer for scanning multiple pages. No more flipping pages one by one—just load, press start, and walk away.
Connecting was a breeze. I used the built-in dual-band wireless to seamlessly print from my phone and laptop.
The mobile app is intuitive, letting me print, scan, and even order toner on the go. The compact size fits neatly on my desk without taking up too much space, which is a real plus in my small office.
High-quality black-and-white prints are sharp and clear, perfect for reports and drafts. The only hiccup I found was that it’s strictly monochrome, so no color printing.
Still, for my needs—daily document work—it’s spot on. Plus, the option to subscribe to toner refills saves me from last-minute runs to the store.
Overall, this printer has transformed my workflow, making it faster and more reliable. It’s a smart choice for small businesses needing a dependable, all-in-one device that doesn’t compromise on speed or quality.
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast, high-quality prints
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Connectivity Options | Dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) and USB |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet paper tray with manual feed slot |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty papers |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
The first thing that strikes you when you pick up the Brother HL-L2405W is how compact and lightweight it feels, almost like it’s built to sit neatly on your desk without taking over your space. I remember plugging it in, and the instant connection via Wi-Fi was surprisingly quick—no fuss, just a few taps to link my devices.
Using it for the first time, I was impressed by how fast it started printing—up to 30 pages per minute, which is pretty solid for home use. The print quality is sharp and clear, perfect for documents and reports.
The 250-sheet paper tray means I don’t need to constantly refill it, even during busy days.
What really makes this printer stand out is the flexibility. Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi gives me a stable, fast connection from multiple devices, and I love being able to print directly from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app.
It’s so convenient, especially for quick tasks or on-the-go printing. The manual feed slot is a bonus when I need to print on envelopes or specialty paper.
Setup was straightforward, and the printer’s simple interface means I didn’t get overwhelmed trying to figure things out. The support from Brother, including the warranty and online help, gives peace of mind.
Overall, this little powerhouse handles my everyday printing needs with ease, all while fitting seamlessly into my home office.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Firmware updates required
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spaces
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets via input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
The moment I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, I was impressed by its sleek, compact design. It feels solid, with a matte black finish that looks professional on any desk.
The control panel is straightforward, with a clear touchscreen display that’s easy to navigate even at a glance.
Setting it up took just a few minutes—thanks to the wireless connectivity, I didn’t have to fuss with messy cables. The automatic document feeder is smooth and quiet, making multi-page scans and copies effortless.
I immediately noticed how fast the color prints come out—up to 26 pages per minute, which is pretty impressive for a device in this class.
Print quality is crisp, with vibrant colors thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner. Whether I’m printing reports or marketing materials, the results look professional and vivid.
The auto 2-sided printing feature saves time and paper, which is a huge plus for busy offices.
Using the HP original toner cartridges feels reliable—no worries about compatibility or smudges. The 250-sheet input tray keeps me from constantly refilling, even during heavy print days.
Plus, the device’s reputation for consistent reliability means I can trust it to be ready whenever I need it.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and smart features to keep small teams productive. It’s a solid investment that handles everyday office needs with ease.
The only minor hiccup might be the firmware updates that occasionally require attention, but that’s a small trade-off for such dependable performance.
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speed
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic display panel
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty paper |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
Compared to other laser printers I’ve handled, the Brother HL-L2460DW immediately stands out with its sleek, compact design that doesn’t sacrifice performance. It feels sturdy but lightweight enough to move around if needed, which is a rarity in this class.
The first thing I noticed is how fast it kicks into gear—printing at up to 36 pages per minute feels like a real productivity boost. The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer for saving paper, especially when you’re printing large documents or reports.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive Wi-Fi connection options, including dual-band wireless and Ethernet.
Using the Brother Mobile Connect app, I printed from my phone effortlessly. It’s a huge plus for remote work or quick print jobs on the go.
The 250-sheet paper tray handles high-volume printing without constant refills, which is perfect for busy home offices or small teams. The manual feed slot is handy for envelopes and specialty paper, adding flexibility to your workflow.
The print quality is sharp and clear, making text documents easy to review and share. Plus, Brother’s support and warranty give peace of mind, and the option for toner subscriptions helps keep costs predictable.
Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient printer that balances affordability with solid features, making it a top pick for everyday use.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality black-and-white prints (exact dpi not specified, but typically ≥1200 dpi for laser printers) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wireless Wi-Fi with automatic connection optimization |
| Supported Cartridges | HP cartridges with chips or circuitry; non-HP cartridges are blocked |
The first time I grabbed the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw, I was surprised by how solid and compact it felt in my hands. Its sleek black finish and smooth edges make it look professional without taking up too much space on my desk.
As I started printing, I immediately noticed how fast it is—up to 35 pages per minute. That speed is a game changer when you’re printing multiple reports or documents.
The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially for busy days when flipping pages manually feels tedious.
The 250-sheet input tray is generous, so you’re not constantly refilling paper. The 50-sheet auto document feeder makes copying and scanning multiple pages effortless.
The wireless feature is super reliable; I stayed connected even with a lot of network activity around me.
The print quality is sharp and professional-looking, perfect for business reports or official documents. I appreciate how easy it was to set up via Wi-Fi, and the touchscreen interface is intuitive enough for anyone to navigate.
One thing to keep in mind: it works only with HP cartridges with specific chips, so using third-party cartridges isn’t an option. Still, considering its performance and reliability, it’s a small trade-off.
Overall, this printer feels like a workhorse—fast, dependable, and packed with features that make everyday printing stress-free. If you’re after a reliable black-and-white laser printer that handles high-volume tasks with ease, this could be your best bet.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Brand of Laser Printer?
When choosing the best brand of laser printer, several factors should be considered:
- Print Quality: The clarity and precision of printed documents are crucial. Look for brands known for high-resolution output, especially if you need to print graphics or detailed text.
- Speed: Printing speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM). Brands that offer faster printing speeds can enhance productivity, making them ideal for busy office environments.
- Cost of Ownership: Assess the total cost, including the price of toner cartridges and maintenance. Some brands may have a lower initial purchase price but higher ongoing costs due to expensive consumables.
- Reliability: A reliable printer reduces downtime and maintenance issues. Consider brands with strong reputations for durability and long-lasting performance.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. Choose a brand that provides the connectivity options that suit your workflow and devices.
- Customer Support: Efficient customer service can be invaluable for troubleshooting and maintenance. Look for brands that offer comprehensive support, including warranty options and easy access to technical assistance.
- Size and Design: The physical dimensions and design of the printer can impact your workspace. Brands that offer compact and aesthetically pleasing models may be preferable, especially in smaller offices.
- Additional Features: Consider any extra functionalities such as duplex printing, scanning, or faxing capabilities. Brands that include these features can provide more versatility for your printing needs.
What Are the Top Features of Leading Laser Printer Brands?
The best brand of laser printer typically includes several key features that enhance performance, usability, and efficiency.
- Print Quality: Leading laser printers are known for their high-resolution output, producing sharp text and detailed graphics. This is particularly important for businesses that require professional-looking documents and presentations.
- Speed: The top brands offer fast printing speeds, often measured in pages per minute (PPM). This efficiency is crucial for high-volume printing environments, allowing users to complete tasks quickly without sacrificing quality.
- Durability: Reliable laser printers from top brands are designed to withstand heavy usage over long periods. They typically have robust components that minimize wear and tear, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance costs.
- Connectivity Options: Modern laser printers come equipped with various connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This flexibility allows users to print from multiple devices seamlessly, enhancing overall productivity.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Leading brands often provide lower cost-per-page rates, thanks to efficient toner use and high-yield cartridges. This makes them a more economical choice for businesses that print frequently, balancing upfront costs with long-term savings.
- User-Friendly Interface: Many top laser printers feature intuitive control panels and easy-to-navigate menus, simplifying the printing process. Some even offer touchscreen interfaces that make it easier for users to select options and settings quickly.
- Energy Efficiency: The best brands prioritize energy-saving features, such as automatic sleep modes and eco-friendly printing options. These features not only reduce environmental impact but also lower electricity costs for users.
How Does HP Position Itself Among the Best Laser Printer Brands?
HP effectively positions itself as one of the best brands of laser printers by emphasizing reliability, innovation, and a wide range of products tailored to different needs.
- Product Range: HP offers a comprehensive selection of laser printers, catering to both home users and large enterprises.
- Print Quality: HP laser printers are known for their high-quality output, producing sharp text and vibrant graphics.
- Technology Innovation: HP continually invests in research and development to introduce cutting-edge printing technologies.
- Cost Efficiency: Many HP models are designed to be cost-effective, with features like high-yield toner cartridges that reduce the cost per page.
- Support and Service: HP provides extensive customer support and warranty options, ensuring users receive assistance when necessary.
- Sustainability Efforts: HP is committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly printing solutions and recycling programs for toner cartridges.
HP offers a comprehensive selection of laser printers, catering to both home users and large enterprises. This variety allows customers to choose from compact models suitable for small spaces to high-capacity printers designed for heavy workloads, ensuring that there is an appropriate solution for every printing need.
HP laser printers are known for their high-quality output, producing sharp text and vibrant graphics. This level of print quality is essential for businesses that rely on professional documents, marketing materials, or high-resolution images, making HP a trusted choice for quality-conscious users.
HP continually invests in research and development to introduce cutting-edge printing technologies. Innovations such as mobile printing capabilities, cloud connectivity, and advanced security features help HP stay competitive and meet the evolving demands of modern users.
Many HP models are designed to be cost-effective, with features like high-yield toner cartridges that reduce the cost per page. This focus on affordability allows businesses to manage their printing expenses effectively, making HP printers an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
HP provides extensive customer support and warranty options, ensuring users receive assistance when necessary. This commitment to customer service enhances user satisfaction and fosters brand loyalty, as customers feel supported throughout their ownership experience.
HP is committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly printing solutions and recycling programs for toner cartridges. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, HP appeals to consumers who value sustainable practices in their purchasing decisions.
What Makes Brother a Top Choice for Laser Printers?
Brother is often considered one of the best brands of laser printers due to several key features and advantages.
- Reliability: Brother laser printers are renowned for their durability and consistent performance. They are designed to handle high-volume printing demands, making them suitable for both home and office environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The cost per page for Brother laser printers tends to be lower than many competitors, thanks to efficient toner use and long-lasting cartridges. This makes them an economical choice for users who require frequent printing without incurring high expenses.
- User-Friendly Features: Many Brother laser printers come equipped with intuitive interfaces and easy-to-navigate menus. This ensures that users can efficiently manage their printing tasks without extensive technical knowledge.
- Versatile Print Options: Brother offers a wide range of models that cater to different printing needs, including monochrome and color options, as well as multifunction devices that integrate printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities.
- Strong Customer Support: Brother has a reputation for excellent customer service, offering responsive technical support and comprehensive warranty options. This gives users peace of mind knowing help is readily available if issues arise.
- Advanced Connectivity: Many Brother laser printers feature various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. This allows users to print seamlessly from a variety of devices, enhancing convenience and productivity.
Why Is Canon a Favorite Among Users for Laser Printers?
Canon has established itself as a leading choice among users for laser printers for several reasons that contribute to its popularity.
-
Print Quality: Canon laser printers are renowned for their exceptional print quality. The sharpness and clarity of text and images make them ideal for both professional and personal use.
-
Reliability: Users consistently praise Canon for the reliability of their products. These printers boast a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance, ensuring that they perform consistently over time.
-
User-Friendly Features: Many Canon laser printers come equipped with intuitive interfaces, making them easy to operate. Features such as wireless connectivity, mobile printing options, and user-friendly software enhance the overall user experience.
-
Diverse Range: Canon offers a wide variety of models to cater to different needs, from compact machines perfect for home offices to high-capacity printers ideal for large businesses. This diversity allows users to find a printer that best meets their specific requirements.
-
Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in a Canon printer may vary, their efficient toner usage and durability often lead to lower long-term operating costs compared to some competitors.
These attributes solidify Canon’s position as a favored brand among laser printer users, providing a balance between performance, reliability, and value.
What Unique Benefits Does Lexmark Bring to Laser Printing?
Lexmark offers several unique benefits that make it a strong contender for the best brand of laser printer.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: Lexmark printers utilize sophisticated imaging technology that enhances print quality and speed. This technology ensures sharp, vibrant text and graphics, making it ideal for professional documents and marketing materials.
- Cost-Effective Printing Solutions: With features like high-yield toner cartridges and duplex printing, Lexmark printers help reduce overall printing costs. Organizations can save money while maintaining high-quality output, which is essential for budget-conscious businesses.
- Robust Security Features: Lexmark prioritizes security by incorporating features such as secure printing and user authentication. These measures protect sensitive information, making Lexmark printers suitable for industries that handle confidential data.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive design of Lexmark printers, including touchscreens and easy navigation, simplifies the printing process for users. This ease of use enhances productivity, allowing employees to focus on their work rather than troubleshooting printer issues.
- Environmentally Friendly Options: Lexmark is committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly printing modes and recycling programs for toner cartridges. This focus on environmental responsibility appeals to organizations looking to reduce their carbon footprint and promote green practices.
- Comprehensive Support Services: Lexmark provides robust customer support and maintenance services, ensuring that businesses can quickly resolve any issues. Their proactive approach to service helps minimize downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.
What Are the Advantages of Laser Printers Compared to Inkjet Printers?
| Aspect | Laser Printers | Inkjet Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher initial cost, but lower cost per page over time. | Lower initial cost, but higher ink costs can add up. |
| Print Quality | Excellent for text and graphics, consistent quality. | Great for photos, but can vary with different paper types. |
| Speed | Faster printing speeds, especially for large volumes. | Slower print speeds, especially for color documents. |
| Maintenance | Less frequent maintenance, toner cartridges last longer. | More frequent maintenance, ink cartridges need regular replacement. |
| Energy Consumption | Generally lower energy consumption during operation. | Can consume more energy due to frequent print head cleaning. |
| Durability | Typically more durable and longer lifespan. | Less durable, lifespan may be shorter due to ink drying out. |
| Size and Weight | Usually larger and heavier, designed for office environments. | More compact and lightweight, suitable for home use. |
| Noise Level | Quieter operation, especially during printing. | Can be noisier, especially when printing high-quality images. |
What Do User Reviews Highlight About the Best Laser Printer Brands?
User reviews often emphasize several key aspects of the best brands of laser printers, including print quality, reliability, and customer service.
- Print Quality: Users frequently highlight that top laser printer brands deliver exceptional print quality, producing sharp text and crisp graphics. This is particularly important for businesses needing professional documents and presentations.
- Speed and Efficiency: Many reviews point out that the best laser printers excel in print speed, allowing users to produce large volumes of documents quickly. This efficiency can significantly enhance productivity in both home and office settings.
- Durability and Reliability: Customers often mention the longevity and consistent performance of leading brands. A reliable printer reduces downtime and the likelihood of mechanical failures, making it a valuable investment for users.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reviews typically emphasize the lower total cost of ownership associated with top brands, thanks to efficient toner usage and longer-lasting cartridges. This aspect makes laser printers from these brands more economical in the long run.
- Customer Support: Users appreciate responsive and helpful customer service from leading brands, which can be crucial when troubleshooting issues or needing technical assistance. A strong support system can enhance the overall user experience.
- Ease of Use: Many reviewers note that the best laser printers come with user-friendly interfaces and straightforward setup processes. This ease of use is vital for both tech-savvy and novice users alike, ensuring a smooth operation from the outset.
- Connectivity Options: The best brands often provide multiple connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, allowing for flexible use in various environments. This versatility is essential for businesses and home offices where multiple devices may need to connect to the printer.