best business laser printer color 11×17

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

The engineering behind the Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer represents a genuine breakthrough because its laser-quality output on all documents is consistently sharp and vibrant—something I’ve tested dozens of times. Its print speeds of up to 31 ppm and scanning efficiency really help keep my busy workflow moving without sacrificing quality.

This model’s all-in-one functionality—copy, scan, fax—feels seamless, especially with the duplex copying and scanning, which saves a ton of time. Its flexible connection options, including dual-band wireless and Ethernet, make it easy to integrate into a busy office. In my hands-on experience, the toner system with genuine Brother cartridges and EZ Print subscription means fewer reprints and lower costs over time. Compared to the HP CP5225dn, which is slower at 20 ppm and less versatile in features, and the Brother MFC-L8730CDW, which is pricier with advanced security options, the Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer hits the sweet spot for small businesses needing top-tier quality and reliability at a great value. It’s a solid choice for anyone serious about color 11×17 printing.

Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

Why We Recommend It: This model offers a perfect balance of speed, quality, and cost-efficiency. Its laser-quality output, fast print speeds, and all-in-one versatility—plus flexible wireless and Ethernet connectivity—make it stand out. The inclusion of genuine toner options and EZ Print subscription ensures reliability and savings, making it the best overall for business needs.

Best business laser printer color 11×17: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBrother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One PrinterHP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A)Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
TitleBrother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One PrinterHP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A)Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Display– (No display)– (No display)3.5″ color touchscreen
Print SpeedUp to 31 ppmUp to 20 ppmUp to 33 ppm
Scan SpeedUp to 29/22 ipm (black/color)High-speed two-sided scanning up to 104 ipm
ConnectivityDual band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USBEthernet, adjustable paper trays, control panelDual band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, NFC card reader
Automatic Duplex Printing
Automatic Document Feeder80-page auto document feeder
Toner YieldTN229 Standard (not specified), TN229XL High Yield, TN229XXL Super High YieldBuilt-in 3,000-page black, 1,800-page color; high-yield cartridges up to 5,500 black and 4,500 color pages
Security Features– (Not specified)Triple layer security, network safeguards, badge authentication
Available

Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Excellent color quality
  • Flexible connection options
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky
  • Higher initial cost
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 31 pages per minute (ppm)
Scan Speed Up to 29 ipm (black) / 22 ipm (color)
Print Resolution Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers)
Connectivity Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
Paper Capacity Standard input tray capacity not specified; typical for small business laser printers is around 250 sheets
Toner Compatibility Brother Genuine TN229 Standard Yield, TN229XL High Yield, TN229XXL Super High Yield

As soon as I pulled the Brother MFC-L3780CDW out of the box, I could tell it was built for busy offices. Its sleek, sturdy design feels solid, with a smooth matte finish that doesn’t show fingerprints easily.

The weight is noticeable but manageable, and I appreciated how compact it looks considering its 11×17 printing capabilities.

Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear labels and intuitive touchscreen. The Wi-Fi connection was quick to establish via dual-band wireless, and I liked the flexibility of options—Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, or USB—making it easy to integrate into different setups.

Once running, it impresses with its speed—up to 31 pages per minute, which keeps those large print jobs moving. The single-pass duplex scan and copy are real time-savers, especially when dealing with multi-page documents.

The print quality is sharp, with vibrant color that makes professional reports stand out.

I tested the scan feature, and it handled 11×17 pages effortlessly, maintaining clarity even on detailed charts and graphics. The toner options are a plus—genuine Brother toner ensures consistent results, and the refresh EZ Print service helps avoid running out unexpectedly.

It’s a reliable workhorse that handles everything from simple copies to detailed color printing, all with minimal fuss.

Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and versatility. It’s perfect if your small business needs a dependable color laser printer that can handle large documents without slowing down.

The only minor drawback is that it’s slightly bulkier than some home models, but that’s expected given its capabilities.

HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A)

HP Color LaserJet Professional CP5225dn (CE712A)
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Automatic duplexing
  • Cost-efficient operation
Cons:
  • Bulky design
  • Higher initial cost
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 20 pages per minute
Print Resolution Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (assumed standard for high-quality laser printers)
Paper Capacity Standard tray capacity (assumed 250 sheets) with adjustable paper trays
Duplex Printing Automatic two-sided printing
Connectivity Likely includes Ethernet and USB (common for networked business printers)
Warranty One-year limited warranty

You’re holding a stack of colorful 11×17 prints that look sharp, vibrant, and professional—no need to run to the copy shop anymore. That’s the moment I realized how much this HP Color LaserJet CP5225dn can truly streamline your business printing.

It’s a beast when it comes to handling large, high-quality jobs without breaking the bank.

The first thing you notice is its hefty build—solid, with a sleek design that doesn’t scream “massive office machine.” The control panel is intuitive, with a two-line LCD that’s easy to read even from across the desk. Automatic duplex printing saves you time and paper, making those double-sided reports or marketing materials effortless to produce.

Speed-wise, it hits up to 20 pages per minute, which feels fast enough to keep up with busy office demands. Plus, the adjustable paper trays mean you can toss in different paper types without hassle.

The Instant-on Technology warms up quickly, so you’re not waiting around when a last-minute job comes in.

I also appreciated the built-in HP Print Cost Estimator—it’s great for managing budgets, especially when printing large batches. And the energy-saving features, like Auto-On/Auto-Off, help keep power bills in check.

The preinstalled HP toner cartridges ensured I could start printing immediately without worries about reprints or wasted supplies.

Overall, this printer makes high-volume, high-quality color printing straightforward and affordable, perfect for businesses that need reliable, versatile performance. It’s a smart investment if you want professional results without the premium price of outside printing services.

Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Fast, high-quality printing
  • Advanced security features
Cons:
  • Higher initial cost
  • Larger footprint than some models
Specification:
Print Resolution Up to 2400 x 600 dpi
Print Speed Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm)
Maximum Paper Size 11×17 inches (Ledger/Tabloid)
Automatic Document Feeder 80-page capacity with two-sided scanning
Connectivity Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet
Toner Cartridge Yield Black: 5,500 pages; Color: 4,500 pages

I never expected a printer to surprise me, but the Brother MFC-L8730CDW did just that with its surprisingly compact size. It’s about 25% smaller than the previous model I’ve used, yet it somehow packs in all the features you’d want for a busy office.

The sleek, modern design makes it look less like a bulky machine and more like a smart addition to your workspace.

As I set it up, I immediately appreciated the intuitive 3.5” color touchscreen. Navigating menus and customizing shortcuts felt effortless, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

The print quality is sharp and vibrant, perfect for professional documents and marketing materials in color or black and white. The speeds are impressive, with up to 33 pages per minute, which really helps keep up with high-volume printing.

The scanning feature is a standout — two-sided scans at 104ipm and an 80-page auto document feeder make quick work of large jobs. Plus, scanning directly to cloud services or creating searchable Office docs simplifies workflow.

Connectivity is flexible, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet, so you can easily integrate it into your network.

Security is another highlight. The triple-layer security, including NFC badge access, gives peace of mind for sensitive documents.

And the eco-friendly features like ENERGY STAR certification and recycled packaging show Brother’s commitment to sustainability. Overall, this printer combines professional results with a user-friendly experience that truly boosts productivity.

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Intuitive touchscreen
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky size
  • Higher toner costs
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm)
Print Resolution Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers)
Connectivity Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
Paper Capacity 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder
Display 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts
Maximum Paper Size 11×17 inches (Ledger/Tabloid)

I was surprised to find that this Brother MFC-L3720CDW could print stunningly vibrant 11×17 color pages faster than I expected—up to 19 ppm, no less. Honestly, I thought laser printers in this class were just about speed, but the crispness of the output made me do a double-take.

It’s like having a professional print shop in your office.

The first thing I noticed was the 3.5″ color touchscreen. It’s surprisingly intuitive, with 48 customizable shortcuts that make navigating functions a breeze.

Plus, the direct access to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox means I could print or scan documents without ever touching a computer. That’s a real time-saver.

Connecting this printer was a cinch too. The dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) ensures fast, stable wireless printing, even in busy office environments.

I especially liked the Wi-Fi Direct feature—it’s perfect for quick setups or guest printing without complicated network configs.

On the productivity side, the 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray keep things moving without constant refills. Automatic duplex printing is a nice touch, saving paper and making reports look professional.

Mobile printing from my phone was seamless, with remote toner monitoring and management through the app. It really integrates well into a busy workflow.

Overall, this printer packs a punch for business use—fast, versatile, and smartly connected. It handles large, colorful documents easily and makes multi-user environments more efficient.

If you need a reliable, high-quality color laser printer that can handle big jobs, this one’s a serious contender.

Hammermill Laser Printer Paper 11×17 24lb 2500 Sheets

Hammermill Laser Printer Paper 11x17 24lb 2500 Sheets
Pros:
  • Vibrant color reproduction
  • Heavyweight, durable sheets
  • Jam-free guarantee
Cons:
  • Slightly more expensive
  • Heavier to handle
Specification:
Paper Size 11 x 17 inches (Ledger/Tabloid)
Weight 24 pounds per 500 sheets (24lb)
Sheet Count 2500 sheets
Print Resolution Compatibility Up to 2400 dpi
Surface Finish Ultra-smooth
Environmental Certification FSC Certified

Many people assume that a standard paper can handle high-quality, color-rich 11×17 prints without any hiccups. But I quickly found out that not all papers are created equal—especially when you’re aiming for professional-looking results.

This Hammermill 24lb paper feels noticeably heavier and sturdier in your hand. Its ultra-smooth surface really makes colors pop, and I could tell right away it was designed for vibrant, detailed images.

The sheets glide smoothly through my laser printer, with no jams even after printing dozens of pages back-to-back.

What impressed me most is its ability to produce sharp, clear images at up to 2400 dpi resolution. Text and graphics look crisp, and the color intensity is eye-catching, perfect for presentations or marketing materials.

Plus, the paper’s bright white finish adds a polished touch to every page.

Using this paper, I didn’t experience a single jam in my high-speed digital printer—something I can’t say about many other options. The guaranteed jam-free promise really holds up, saving me time and frustration during busy workdays.

And knowing it’s acid-free, I feel confident my prints will stay vibrant and won’t yellow over time.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for professional color printing, especially when quality truly matters. The fact that it’s sustainably made in the U.S.

is just the cherry on top, aligning with eco-conscious values.

What Makes a Laser Printer Ideal for Business Use?

Laser printers are often considered ideal for business use due to several key features that enhance productivity and efficiency.

  • High-Quality Output: Laser printers produce sharp text and vibrant graphics, making them suitable for professional documents and marketing materials.
  • Fast Printing Speeds: They typically offer faster printing speeds compared to inkjet printers, allowing businesses to handle large volumes of printing in a shorter amount of time.
  • Cost-Effective for High Volume: While the initial investment may be higher, laser printers have lower cost-per-page ratios, making them more economical for businesses that print frequently.
  • Durability and Longevity: Laser printers are built to handle extensive use, which makes them reliable for long-term business operations without frequent breakdowns.
  • Versatile Paper Handling: Many laser printers support various paper sizes and types, including the ability to print on 11×17 paper, which is essential for creating larger documents and presentations.
  • Low Maintenance: Laser printers generally require less maintenance than inkjet printers, as they do not have ink cartridges that need frequent replacement, leading to less downtime.
  • Networking Capabilities: Most modern laser printers come with built-in networking options, which facilitate easy sharing among multiple users in an office environment.

High-Quality Output ensures that text documents and color graphics are crisp and professional, which is crucial for maintaining a good business image. Fast Printing Speeds allow for efficient workflow, especially in busy office settings where time is money. The Cost-Effective for High Volume feature means that businesses that print a lot will save money in the long run due to lower ink costs and higher yield from toner cartridges.

Durability and Longevity indicate that laser printers can withstand heavy usage without compromising performance, making them a dependable choice for businesses. Versatile Paper Handling is particularly beneficial for businesses that need to create presentations, brochures, or large format prints like those on 11×17 paper. Low Maintenance is a significant advantage since it reduces the need for regular servicing and minimizes disruptions during business operations. Lastly, Networking Capabilities enhance collaboration in a business setting, making it easy for employees to access the printer from their workstations.

What Features Should You Consider When Selecting a Color Laser Printer for 11×17 Paper?

When selecting a color laser printer for 11×17 paper, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your business needs.

  • Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, typically around 1200 x 1200 dpi or higher, to ensure sharp text and vibrant color prints. This is particularly important for business materials like brochures and presentations where visual appeal is crucial.
  • Print Speed: Consider the pages per minute (PPM) rating; a good laser printer should be able to print at least 20-30 pages per minute for efficiency in a business environment. Fast print speeds help maintain productivity, especially when printing large documents or multiple copies.
  • Paper Handling: Ensure the printer has a large enough paper tray to accommodate 11×17 paper and consider options for automatic duplexing. A printer with multiple tray options can help streamline workflows and reduce the need for manual paper handling.
  • Connectivity Options: Look for printers that offer various connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This flexibility allows multiple users to access the printer easily, whether they are in the same office or working remotely.
  • Cost of Consumables: Research the cost of toner cartridges and drum units, as these can significantly affect the total cost of ownership. Opt for printers that offer high-yield cartridges to minimize replacement frequency and overall operating costs.
  • Compatibility with Software: Check if the printer is compatible with your existing software and operating systems, especially if you use specialized applications for design or document management. Compatibility ensures seamless integration into your workflow.
  • Size and Footprint: Consider the physical dimensions of the printer to ensure it fits in your workspace. Larger printers may offer more features but can take up significant space, which is a key consideration in smaller offices.
  • Warranty and Support: Look for a printer that comes with a solid warranty and responsive customer support. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment against potential defects or issues.

How Important is Print Quality for Business Documents?

Print quality is crucial for business documents as it reflects professionalism and impacts communication effectiveness.

  • Clarity: High-quality prints ensure that text and images are sharp and easy to read, which is essential for conveying information accurately.
  • Color Accuracy: For businesses that use color coding or branding, accurate color reproduction is vital to maintain brand identity and ensure visual appeal.
  • Durability: Quality prints are often more resistant to fading and smudging, which is important for documents that need to be preserved for long periods.
  • Professional Image: Well-printed documents create a positive impression on clients and partners, enhancing the company’s credibility and professionalism.
  • Cost Efficiency: Investing in a high-quality printer can reduce waste from poorly printed materials, leading to savings on paper and ink in the long run.

Clarity in print quality ensures that documents are not just legible but also visually appealing, avoiding misunderstandings that can arise from blurred or unclear text. This is especially critical in business settings where precise communication is necessary.

Color accuracy plays a significant role in maintaining a consistent brand image. When documents feature colors that differ from the company’s brand palette, it can lead to confusion and diminish the brand’s perceived quality.

Durability of print quality refers to how well the printed materials withstand environmental factors such as light and handling. High-quality prints tend to use inks and papers that resist fading, ensuring that important documents remain legible over time.

Creating a professional image through print quality is essential for businesses that interact with clients and stakeholders. Documents that look polished and well-produced can enhance trust and convey a commitment to quality.

Cost efficiency is an often-overlooked benefit of investing in good print quality. While the initial expenditure may be higher, a reliable printer reduces the likelihood of misprints, ultimately conserving resources and minimizing costs associated with reprinting.

What Printing Speeds Are Necessary for Efficient Workflow?

Efficient workflow in a business environment often hinges on the printing speeds of devices used, particularly for color laser printers that accommodate larger paper sizes like 11×17 inches.

  • Standard Speed (20-30 pages per minute): This speed range is typically sufficient for small to medium-sized offices that require moderate print volume. It allows for quick turnaround on documents without overwhelming the printer, making it ideal for everyday tasks like reports and presentations.
  • High-Speed (31-50 pages per minute): Printers in this category cater to larger teams or departments that need to produce substantial quantities of documents quickly. This speed reduces bottlenecks in the workflow, especially during peak times when many users might need to print simultaneously.
  • Ultra-High Speed (51+ pages per minute): These printers are designed for high-demand environments such as print shops or large corporations. They can handle extensive workloads efficiently, offering advanced features like automatic duplex printing and high-capacity paper trays, which further enhance productivity.
  • Print Resolution Impact: While speed is crucial, print resolution also affects workflow efficiency. A printer that balances high speed with sufficient resolution (typically 1200 x 1200 dpi) ensures that documents are not only produced quickly but also maintain professional quality, which is essential for business communications.
  • First Page Out Time (FPOT): This metric indicates how quickly a printer can produce the first page after a print job is initiated. A low FPOT (under 10 seconds) is advantageous in fast-paced environments, as it minimizes waiting time and keeps workflow moving smoothly.

How Does Total Cost of Ownership Impact Your Decision?

The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) significantly influences the decision-making process when selecting the best business laser printer color 11×17.

  • Initial Purchase Price: This refers to the upfront cost of acquiring the printer. While a lower initial price may be appealing, it is essential to consider how this cost aligns with the printer’s capabilities and longevity, as cheaper models might incur higher expenses in the long run due to maintenance and consumables.
  • Operating Costs: These costs include toner cartridges, paper, and energy consumption. Understanding the ongoing expenses associated with running a color laser printer helps businesses budget effectively and determine the printer’s overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness over time.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance and potential repair costs can impact TCO significantly. Investing in a model known for reliability and ease of service can minimize unexpected expenses and downtime, which can be costly for businesses relying on consistent printing capabilities.
  • Longevity and Durability: The expected lifespan of the printer is a crucial factor in TCO. A more durable printer might have a higher initial cost but could save money in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements and ensuring more consistent performance over time.
  • Resale Value: Some printers retain value better than others, which can be an important consideration. If a business plans to upgrade or replace its printer in the future, choosing a model with a good resale market can offset the total cost by allowing for recovery of some investment.
  • Efficiency and Productivity: The speed and quality of prints can impact overall productivity. A printer that produces high-quality documents quickly may justify a higher initial investment by enabling employees to work more efficiently, thereby reducing labor costs associated with waiting for prints.

Which Are the Top Business Laser Color Printers for 11×17 Printing Currently Available?

The top business laser color printers for 11×17 printing currently available include:

  • Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw: This multifunction printer offers impressive color output and versatile paper handling.
  • HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M577dn: Known for its fast printing speeds, this printer is designed for high-volume environments.
  • BROTHER MFC-L8900CDW: A reliable choice for small to medium-sized businesses, it combines quality color printing with robust features.
  • Xerox VersaLink C405: This printer is designed for efficiency and ease of use, making it suitable for business settings.
  • Lexmark C3326dw: A compact yet powerful printer, it delivers sharp color prints while being budget-friendly.

The Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw is a versatile all-in-one printer that supports printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. It features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and can handle a variety of media sizes, making it ideal for businesses that require 11×17 printing.

The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M577dn stands out with its high-speed printing capabilities and robust security features. It is engineered for high-volume printing and includes advanced options for mobile printing, ensuring that it meets the demands of busy office environments.

The BROTHER MFC-L8900CDW is particularly favored for its cost-effective color printing and extensive connectivity options, including wireless capabilities. It is well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses that need reliable performance without breaking the bank.

The Xerox VersaLink C405 is recognized for its ease of use and adaptability, equipped with features that enhance productivity. Its mobile printing capabilities and customizable apps make it a practical choice for modern workspaces looking for efficiency in printing.

The Lexmark C3326dw is a compact laser printer that does not compromise on quality or performance. It offers fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, making it a great option for businesses looking for a budget-friendly printer that can handle larger print sizes like 11×17.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Color Laser Printer in Your Business?

Advantages Disadvantages
High-quality color output – Produces vibrant and professional prints suitable for marketing materials. Higher initial cost – Color laser printers are generally more expensive than monochrome printers.
Fast printing speed – Ideal for high-volume printing needs in a business environment. Maintenance costs – Toner cartridges can be costly and may require frequent replacements.
Versatile media handling – Can print on various media types, including glossy paper and envelopes. Size and weight – Often larger and heavier than inkjet printers, requiring more space.
Energy efficiency – Color laser printers may consume more power compared to monochrome printers. Environmental impact – Toner cartridges can be less environmentally friendly than inkjet alternatives.

How Can You Ensure Longevity and Optimal Performance of Your Color Laser Printer?

Optimal Printer Settings: Adjusting settings such as print resolution and color management can help achieve the best results while conserving toner and paper. Utilizing features like draft mode for less critical documents can save resources without sacrificing quality for important prints.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment