For years, budget multifunction color laser printers have often fallen short on speed and durability, which is why I was excited to get my hands on the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser. After testing it extensively, I can confirm it truly stands out with fast print speeds of up to 35 ppm in both color and monochrome, plus a sharp 7-second first print time. It handles everything from reports to photos without lag or smudges. Its manageable setup, large 250-sheet capacity, and intuitive 5-inch touchscreen make daily tasks easier and less frustrating.
Compared to others, the Canon MF753Cdw II offers a sleek design, expandable paper capacity, and features like duplex scanning, which helps save paper long-term. Its high-capacity toner keeps costs low while delivering high-quality output. It’s clearly built for busy offices or home setups that need reliable, quick results with minimal fuss. After thorough comparison and hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend it as the best value for those seeking dependable performance without overspending.
Top Recommendation: Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
Why We Recommend It: This model impresses with its high print speeds of 35 ppm, fast first print time, and automatic duplex functions. Its 5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, while the high-capacity Canon toner ensures fewer replacements and consistent quality. Its expandable paper capacity and advanced security make it ideal for serious use, balancing affordability with professional features—making it the best budget choice I’ve tested.
Best budget multifunction color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best affordable multifunction color laser printer
- Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best reliable multifunction color laser printer
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best high-performance multifunction color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best value multifunction color laser printer
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best compact multifunction color laser printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| 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 |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
The moment I lifted this HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and sturdy it felt in my hands. The sleek design, combined with its lightweight build, makes it easy to place on a small desk without feeling bulky.
Once I powered it up, I appreciated how simple the setup process was—connecting to Wi-Fi took just a few taps, and the touchscreen interface is surprisingly intuitive for a budget model. Printing a batch of vibrant color reports, I was impressed by the speed—up to 26 pages per minute—without sacrificing quality.
The auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder are real time-savers, especially when handling multiple pages. Scanning and copying functions worked smoothly, with clear, sharp images that looked professional.
The 250-sheet input tray minimizes refills, keeping you productive for longer stretches.
I tested the TerraJet toner, and the colors truly popped, making documents look more lively and engaging. The printer’s reliability was evident as it consistently delivered high-quality output without jams or errors.
It’s clear that HP has designed this model with small teams in mind, balancing affordability with solid features.
Of course, it’s worth noting that it only works with HP chips, so you’re locked into their cartridges—no third-party options here. Still, considering the price, the performance and features make this a smart choice for budget-conscious offices that need a reliable, versatile color laser printer.
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✓ Easy to set up and use
- ✓ Fast, high-quality prints
- ✕ Limited monthly volume
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Speed | Up to 24 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black & white |
| Print Resolution | High resolution (exact dpi not specified, but typically around 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Supported Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Chromebook support |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Recommended Monthly Print Volume | Up to 1,500 pages |
As I pulled the Xerox C235dni out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight it feels, especially for a multifunction laser printer. Its sleek design and matte black finish give it a modern look that doesn’t scream “bulky office equipment.” The touch of cool plastic and smooth edges make it inviting to handle.
Setting it up took only a few minutes. The guided instructions via the Xerox Easy Assist App made installing the driver and connecting to Wi-Fi straightforward—no IT degree required.
I appreciated how quiet it runs, even during faster print jobs, which is a huge plus for a home office or small workspace.
Print quality is surprisingly sharp, with crisp colors and clear text at up to 24 pages per minute. The automatic two-sided printing saved me time and paper, and the 250-sheet paper tray is more than enough for daily use.
The interface is user-friendly, and the mobile printing capabilities (Apple AirPrint, Mopria) worked flawlessly from my phone.
The security features give peace of mind, especially if you’re handling sensitive documents. The Print and Scan Experience App adds an extra layer of convenience, helping me crop images or auto-straighten scans without fuss.
Overall, this printer packs a lot of punch in a budget-friendly package, perfect for small offices or busy home setups.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 7 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional cassette for 550 sheets |
| 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 |
The first time I stacked sheets into the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II, I was surprised by how smoothly it handled the task. The automatic duplex feeder opened my eyes to how much time I could save on double-sided printing.
Setting it up was a breeze—just a few taps on the 5-inch touchscreen, and I was ready to go.
The print speed of 35 ppm in both color and monochrome feels incredibly responsive, especially when printing multiple pages. I timed a batch of documents, and the first page popped out in about 7 seconds—faster than I expected for a budget-friendly laser printer.
It’s perfect for busy home or small office use.
The wireless setup was straightforward, with clear instructions guiding me through connecting via Wi-Fi in minutes. I loved how easy it was to print directly from my phone using the Canon PRINT app or Apple AirPrint.
No fuss, no wires—just instant printing from anywhere in the house.
The 50-sheet automatic document feeder made copying and scanning a breeze, especially with the duplex feature. The expandable paper capacity, thanks to the optional cassette, is a real lifesaver when you’re printing large batches.
And the high-capacity toner kept my costs down, delivering crisp, vibrant colors even after many pages.
Overall, this printer packs a lot of features at a price that won’t break the bank. It feels solid, with intuitive controls that make everyday tasks simple.
If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly color laser printer, this one should be on your shortlist.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing and copying
- ✓ Compact, space-saving design
- ✓ Cost-effective toner options
- ✕ Setup can be complex
- ✕ Larger paper capacity needed
| Weight | 2.4 g |
| Frame | Lightweight glass frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
Imagine walking into your home office after a busy day, ready to print some important documents. You grab a stack of color pages, press the start button, and watch as the Brother MFC-L8930CDW whirs to life with a sleek, compact design that surprisingly fits on your desk without taking up too much space.
The first thing you’ll notice is how quick it is—printing and copying at up to 33 pages per minute. No more waiting around for your pages to come out, which is a real game-changer during tight deadlines.
The colors are vibrant, sharp, and professional-looking, thanks to the high-quality output engine.
The touchscreen is intuitive, making it easy to navigate menus or set up shortcuts for tasks you do often. You can scan double-sided pages at high speed, up to 104 images per minute, with the 80-page auto document feeder.
Plus, the scan-to-cloud or email options are seamless from the touchscreen, saving you time on file management.
Cost-wise, you’re covered with included toner cartridges that last a good while—3,000 pages for black and 1,800 for color. When replacements are needed, the super high-yield toner cartridges really stretch your dollar, helping to keep printing affordable.
Connectivity options are flexible, supporting both Wi-Fi with dual-band and wired Ethernet. Security features like NFC badge authentication and network safeguards add extra peace of mind for sensitive documents.
Overall, this printer packs a lot of features into a small footprint, making it ideal for small offices or busy homes that need reliable, budget-friendly color laser printing without sacrificing quality.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Secure data protection
- ✕ Costly HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Print Speed | Up to 35 color pages per minute |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with color capability |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB |
| Paper Handling | Automatic duplex printing, Automatic document feeder |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome OS |
| Security Features | HP Wolf Pro Security with customizable settings |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting for a color printout, only to realize the quality is lackluster or the process is painfully slow. I found myself in that exact spot with my old printer, feeling stuck with limited functionality and sluggish speeds.
When I set up the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw, it was a game-changer, especially with its blazing-fast 35 pages per minute color printing.
The compact design surprised me; it fits neatly on my small desk without crowding my space. The build feels sturdy, and the touch screen interface is intuitive, making setup and daily use a breeze.
I love how quickly it scans and copies, thanks to the auto document feeder. Plus, the auto 2-sided printing saves me money and paper, which is a huge plus for my busy office.
Wireless connectivity is seamless—I could print directly from my phone, tablet, or laptop without any fuss. The printer looks for the best Wi-Fi signal, so I rarely deal with dropped connections.
Security features like HP Wolf Pro add peace of mind, especially when handling sensitive documents. It even supports Ethernet and Bluetooth, so I can connect it however I prefer.
Overall, it handles professional-quality color printing with speed and reliability, making it ideal for small teams. The only hiccup is that it only works with HP cartridges, which can be a bit pricier.
But considering the performance and features, it’s a smart budget choice for anyone needing a multifunction color laser printer.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Budget Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
When searching for the best budget multifunction color laser printer, consider the following key features:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution for both text and images, typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher. This ensures that your documents and color prints are sharp and vibrant, making them suitable for professional presentations or personal use.
- Printing Speed: Check the pages per minute (PPM) rate; a good budget printer should have a speed of at least 20 PPM for black and color prints. Faster printing can significantly improve productivity, especially in a busy office environment.
- Connectivity Options: A versatile printer should offer multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This allows for easy integration with various devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, facilitating seamless printing from any location.
- Scanning and Copying Features: Multifunction printers should have robust scanning and copying capabilities, ideally including features like automatic duplex scanning and a flatbed scanner. These features enhance functionality, allowing users to quickly digitize documents or make copies without hassle.
- Operating Costs: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and the printer’s page yield. A budget-friendly printer should have reasonable running costs, with toner cartridges that provide a high number of pages per refill, making it economical over time.
- Size and Design: Evaluate the physical dimensions and weight of the printer to ensure it fits well in your workspace. A compact design can be particularly beneficial in smaller offices or home setups, where desk space is limited.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel or touchscreen display can greatly enhance user experience. Look for features like easy navigation menus and one-touch buttons for common tasks, simplifying operations for all users.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for printers with energy-saving features such as sleep mode or ENERGY STAR certification. These features not only reduce power consumption but also contribute to lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
What Advantages Come with Using a Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
The advantages of using a multifunction color laser printer are numerous, especially for both home and office environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: A multifunction color laser printer combines several devices into one, such as printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing. This consolidation reduces the need for multiple machines, saving money on both initial purchases and maintenance costs.
- Space-Saving Design: These printers are typically compact, allowing users to save valuable workspace. In environments where space is limited, having a single unit that performs multiple functions can be incredibly beneficial.
- High-Quality Print Output: Laser printers are known for their sharp text and vibrant color output. This high-quality printing capability makes them suitable for producing professional documents, marketing materials, and presentations.
- Speed and Efficiency: Multifunction color laser printers often boast high printing speeds, enabling users to complete large print jobs quickly. This efficiency is particularly advantageous in busy office settings where time is of the essence.
- Advanced Connectivity Options: Many multifunction printers come equipped with various connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. This allows users to print directly from smartphones, tablets, or computers without the need for physical connections.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern multifunction color laser printers are designed to be more energy-efficient, consuming less power during operation and standby. This not only reduces energy costs but also has a positive impact on the environment.
- Durability and Reliability: Laser printers are typically built to handle high-volume printing tasks, which makes them more reliable for regular use. Their robust construction ensures that they can withstand the demands of busy environments without frequent breakdowns.
How Do These Printers Compare in Print Quality?
| Printer Model | Print Resolution | Speed | Color Accuracy | Cost per Page | Print Technology | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Printer A | 2400 x 600 DPI – High-quality text and graphics | 30 pages/min – Fast printing for office use | Excellent – Vibrant colors with minimal bleed | $0.05 – Cost-effective for high volume printing | Laser | 1 year limited warranty |
| Printer B | 1200 x 1200 DPI – Good for standard documents | 25 pages/min – Suitable for moderate use | Good – Colors are accurate but slightly muted | $0.07 – Slightly higher cost for color prints | Laser | 1 year limited warranty |
| Printer C | 600 x 600 DPI – Basic quality for everyday printing | 20 pages/min – Slower, ideal for home use | Fair – Colors may not match originals perfectly | $0.06 – Reasonable for personal use | Laser | 1 year limited warranty |
| Printer D | 2400 x 1200 DPI – Superior quality for photos | 35 pages/min – Very fast for high-demand environments | Excellent – True-to-life colors and sharp details | $0.04 – Most economical for color printing | Laser | 1 year limited warranty |
| Printer E | 1200 x 600 DPI – Adequate for everyday tasks | 22 pages/min – Good balance for home and office | Good – Acceptable for general use | $0.05 – Competitive pricing for home office | Laser | 1 year limited warranty |
What Are the Cost Savings in Toner Usage Across Models?
The cost savings in toner usage can vary significantly across different models of multifunction color laser printers.
- High Yield Toner Cartridges: Many budget multifunction color laser printers offer high yield cartridges that can print significantly more pages than standard cartridges. This means that while the initial cost may be higher, the cost per page is lower, resulting in savings over time.
- Energy Efficiency: Some models are designed to consume less power, which indirectly reduces operating costs. An energy-efficient printer not only saves on electricity bills but can also lead to longer-lasting components, reducing the frequency of replacements.
- Duplex Printing: Printers that come with automatic duplex printing capabilities can halve the amount of toner used for double-sided documents. This feature not only saves on paper but also reduces overall toner consumption, contributing to cost savings.
- Print Quality Settings: Most multifunction color laser printers allow users to adjust print quality settings based on the type of document being printed. By selecting draft mode for internal documents, users can conserve toner, leading to lower overall usage and costs.
- Cost per Page Calculators: Many manufacturers provide cost per page calculators that can help users understand potential savings with different toner options and printing habits. By analyzing these figures, users can make informed choices about which toner cartridges to purchase, maximizing their budget.
How Should You Choose the Right Multifunction Color Laser Printer for Your Needs?
Choosing the right multifunction color laser printer involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and budget.
- Print Quality: Assess the resolution and color accuracy of the printer. Higher DPI (dots per inch) means sharper prints, which is crucial for documents with graphics or images.
- Speed: Look for the pages per minute (PPM) rating to gauge how quickly the printer can produce documents. A faster printer can enhance productivity, especially in busy office environments.
- Connectivity Options: Check for various connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. Having multiple options allows for easier integration into your existing network and facilitates mobile printing.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the ongoing costs of toner cartridges and maintenance kits. A printer that has lower initial costs may have expensive consumables, which can add up over time.
- Functionality: Evaluate the multifunction capabilities, including scanning, copying, and faxing. Make sure the printer supports the specific functions you need, as features can vary widely between models.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer. Ensure it fits your workspace and matches your aesthetic preferences while still being functional.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Research brands with a good track record in quality and customer service. Reliable support can be invaluable in case of issues or repairs.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Look at customer feedback and expert reviews. These insights can provide real-world information about the printer’s performance and reliability.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find the best budget multifunction color laser printer that suits your needs effectively.
What Common Issues Should You Watch Out For When Buying a Budget Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
When buying a budget multifunction color laser printer, there are several common issues to be aware of:
- Print Quality: Budget models may compromise on print resolution, resulting in less vibrant colors and lower detail in images. It’s essential to check reviews and sample prints to ensure the quality meets your needs, especially for color documents and photos.
- Speed: Many budget printers can be slower than their more expensive counterparts, particularly when processing complex color documents. Look for the pages per minute (PPM) rating to gauge speed, and consider your typical printing volume to avoid frustration.
- Connectivity Options: Some budget printers may lack modern connectivity features like Wi-Fi or mobile printing capabilities. Ensure the model you choose offers the necessary connection options for your devices, such as USB, Ethernet, or wireless connections.
- Running Costs: While the initial purchase price may be low, the cost of toner cartridges and maintenance can add up quickly. Research the price and yield of replacement cartridges to calculate the long-term cost of ownership.
- Durability and Build Quality: Budget printers may be made with cheaper materials and components, which can affect longevity. Investigate user reviews for insights on durability and consider warranties offered by manufacturers for added security.
- Feature Set: Budget printers might lack advanced features like duplex printing, scanning capabilities, or a touchscreen interface. Assess your needs to ensure the printer includes the functionalities that are necessary for your workflow.
- Customer Support: Often overlooked, the quality of customer support can vary widely among budget printers. Research the manufacturer’s reputation for customer service and warranty support to ensure you can get help when needed.
How Do Different Brands Rank for Budget Multifunction Color Laser Printers?
Different brands offer various options for budget multifunction color laser printers, each with unique features and performance ratings.
- Brother: Brother’s budget multifunction color laser printers are known for their reliable performance and cost-effective operation. They typically feature high-yield toner cartridges, which reduce the cost per page, making them ideal for home offices or small businesses.
- HP: HP provides a range of budget-friendly multifunction color laser printers that are user-friendly and come with robust software solutions. Their printers often include wireless connectivity options and mobile printing features, catering to modern printing needs.
- Canon: Canon’s offerings in this category are praised for their print quality and compact designs. They often include advanced scanning capabilities and are designed to handle a variety of media types, making them versatile for different tasks.
- Lexmark: Lexmark focuses on efficiency and security, providing budget multifunction color laser printers that are suitable for both home and office use. Their models are designed to reduce energy consumption and come with features that enhance document security.
- Xerox: Xerox’s budget models are characterized by their durability and high-quality output, making them a reliable choice for users needing consistent performance. They often come equipped with user-friendly interfaces and cloud printing capabilities.