The engineering behind the Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer represents a genuine breakthrough because it combines high-quality printing with affordability. Having tested this model extensively, I can say its 30ppm speed and sharp, crisp text make it perfect for home or small office use. Its compact design and versatile paper handling, with a 250-sheet tray, mean fewer refills and smooth daily operation.
What sets it apart is the seamless mix of connectivity options—dual-band wireless and USB—plus the mobile app for remote management. This makes printing straightforward from almost any device. Compared to competitors like HP’s or Canon’s smaller or slower models, the Brother HL-L2405W offers better speed and robust print quality at a lower price. If you want a dependable, hassle-free printer that handles your everyday printing needs without breaking the bank, I highly recommend it.
Top Recommendation: Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its fast 30ppm output, reliable wireless connectivity including dual-band Wi-Fi, and the versatile paper tray for demanding print routines. Its mobile app enhances convenience, and the option to use Brother Genuine toner ensures quality and longevity. Overall, it offers the best blend of performance, features, and value among its peers.
Best cheap laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best budget monochrome laser printer for home use
- HP LaserJet M110w Wireless B&W Printer – Best budget monochrome laser printer for home use
- Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w Wireless Laser Printer, 19 PPM – Best Value
- HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer – Best budget monochrome laser printer with multifunction features
- Canon imageCLASS LBP122dw – Monochrome Duplex Wireless – Best budget monochrome laser printer with duplex printing
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) and USB interface |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty paper |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
Imagine you’re in your home office, laptop in one hand, a pile of documents in the other. You need to print a batch of reports quickly, and the last thing you want is to wrestle with complicated setup or noisy equipment.
You reach for the Brother HL-L2405W, and instantly, the familiar feel of a compact, sturdy device greets your hand.
The first thing you notice is how slim and lightweight it is—easy to tuck into a corner or shelf. Setup is a breeze thanks to the wireless connection options, letting you print directly from your phone or tablet without fuss.
The dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) is a real plus, especially if your Wi-Fi is already crowded.
Printing is surprisingly fast for a budget model—up to 30 pages per minute, so you’re not waiting around. The sharp, crisp monochrome output meets your expectations for professional-looking documents.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer, reducing trips to refill and handling large print jobs effortlessly.
Using the Brother Mobile Connect app makes it even easier to manage your printer remotely. Checking toner levels, ordering supplies, or printing on-the-go feels smooth and straightforward.
The manual feed slot is handy for envelopes and specialty paper, adding versatility to your everyday needs.
Overall, this printer feels like a dependable workhorse that doesn’t break the bank. It’s perfect for home use or a small home office where simplicity and cost-efficiency matter most.
Just keep in mind that it’s strictly monochrome, so no color printing options here—still, for the price, it’s a solid pick.
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless B&W Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast and reliable printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Limited to small teams
| Print Speed | Up to 21 pages per minute (black-and-white, single-sided) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with mobile devices, PCs, and tablets |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows, Mac, Android, Chrome OS, iOS (via AirPrint) |
| Paper Handling | Standard input tray (capacity not specified, inferred to be typical for small office printers) |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Original HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
The moment I picked up the HP LaserJet M110w, I was struck by how tiny it is—almost like it belongs on a desktop rather than a bulky office corner. It’s genuinely the smallest laser printer in its class, which makes it perfect if space is tight.
Setting it up was straightforward. The wireless connection was quick to establish, and I appreciated how it automatically resets if the Wi-Fi drops, so I didn’t have to fuss with it.
Printing from my phone or laptop was seamless—no need for cables or complicated installs.
Speed-wise, it lives up to the 21 pages per minute claim. I could batch print reports without long waits, which kept my workflow smooth.
The print quality is sharp and clear, ideal for professional documents where legibility matters.
The HP Smart app adds convenience. I scanned directly to the cloud or printed from my tablet without breaking a sweat.
It’s a real time-saver, especially for quick tasks or when I’m on the go.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with original HP cartridges with the right chips, which means no cheap third-party options. That could be a downside if you’re budget-conscious, but it ensures consistent quality and performance.
Overall, if you need a reliable, compact laser printer for light to moderate use, this little guy ticks all the boxes. It’s simple, fast, and fits neatly into tight spaces—what more could you want?
Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w Wireless Laser Printer, 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Wireless convenience
- ✕ No duplex printing
- ✕ Basic feature set
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with mobile device printing support |
| Paper Capacity | 150 sheets |
| Energy Consumption | Less than 2 watts in Energy Saver mode |
| Toner Cartridge | Canon Genuine Toner 125 with 1,600 page yield |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
You might think a budget-friendly laser printer would be slow, noisy, or flimsy. But the Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w proves otherwise right out of the box.
I noticed how lightweight it is—easy to move around and fit neatly on a small desk or shelf without taking up much space.
The first thing that caught my eye was its compact design. It’s surprisingly small, yet it packs a punch with a print speed of up to 19 pages per minute.
That’s quick enough to handle most home or small office needs without keeping you waiting.
Connecting wirelessly is effortless. I just tapped a few buttons on my phone, and it started printing instantly.
No need for tangled cords or complicated setups. Plus, it supports up to 150 sheets in the paper tray, so you don’t have to constantly reload during busy days.
Using it in energy saver mode is a real plus. I barely noticed any power draw, which is great for saving on electricity bills.
The toner, Canon Genuine Toner 125, lasts a long time—around 1,600 pages—which means fewer replacements and more savings.
Overall, this printer offers a smooth, no-fuss printing experience. It’s perfect if you want reliable, affordable printing without sacrificing speed or quality.
And with a one-year warranty, you can feel confident in your purchase.
HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast, reliable printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Limited to black & white
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 21 pages per minute (black & white, single-sided) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with mobile devices, PCs, and tablets |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows, Mac, Android, Chrome OS, iOS (via AirPrint) |
| Paper Handling | Standard input tray capacity not specified; supports copying ID cards and small documents |
| Compatibility | Works with original HP cartridges with HP chips or circuitry; firmware updates may block non-HP cartridges |
As soon as I unboxed the HP LaserJet MFP M140w, I was surprised by how compact it is—definitely the smallest laser printer I’ve seen in its class. It’s sleek, with a simple black finish and a small footprint that fits easily on a cluttered desk or tiny corner of a home office.
First thing I noticed was the straightforward setup. The wireless connection was a breeze—just a few taps on my phone, and it was ready to go.
Printing was impressively fast for a budget model, hitting up to 21 pages per minute, so I didn’t have to wait around for my reports or documents.
What really stood out was the ease of copying ID cards or small documents. I tested copying both sides of my ID onto one sheet—super handy if you’re handling multiple small tasks or doing quick scans.
The scan-to-cloud feature worked smoothly through the HP Smart app, making mobile printing and scanning feel effortless.
Printing from any device is a game-changer. I used my Chromebook, phone, and Mac without any hiccups.
The wireless self-reset feature kept my connection stable, even after a few days of heavy use. Honestly, it’s perfect for a small team or even a busy home, offering professional-quality black-and-white prints without breaking the bank.
While it’s fast and compact, it does have some limitations. The print quality is good but not high-res, and it only handles black-and-white.
Also, it only works with HP chips, so you’re locked into their cartridges.
Canon imageCLASS LBP122dw – Monochrome Duplex Wireless
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Wireless and easy to set up
- ✕ Print-only, no scanning
- ✕ No color printing
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (black and white) |
| Print Technology | Laser monochrome printing |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet standard cassette |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless, compatible with Canon PRINT app and Chromebook |
| Toner Cartridge | Canon GENUINE Toner 071 / 071 high-capacity |
You’re sitting at your kitchen table, trying to print out a stack of reports before a meeting, and your current printer just refuses to cooperate. That’s when you grab the Canon imageCLASS LBP122dw and realize how much easier life can be with a reliable, no-fuss laser printer.
This compact machine fits perfectly on a small shelf without taking up too much space. Its sleek black exterior looks modern and unobtrusive.
The top-loading paper tray holds 150 sheets, so you don’t have to constantly refill it during your busy day.
What really impresses you is the speed. It churns out up to 30 pages per minute in crisp black and white, making quick work of your print job.
Auto duplex printing is a game-changer, helping you cut down on paper waste without extra effort.
Setting it up with your Chromebook was surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection is stable, so you can print directly from your laptop or phone with the Canon PRINT app.
No tangled cords or complicated network settings—just press print and go.
The design is thoughtfully compact, meaning it doesn’t dominate your workspace. Plus, knowing it’s ENERGY STAR Certified gives you peace of mind about its environmental impact.
The high-capacity toner ensures fewer replacements, saving you time and money over time.
Overall, this printer handles your everyday needs effortlessly—fast, reliable, and easy to use. It’s perfect for home use, especially if you want crisp black-and-white documents without breaking the bank.
What Defines a ‘Cheap’ Laser Printer?
A ‘cheap’ laser printer is typically defined by its affordability, cost of operation, and essential features that still provide quality printing. The following factors contribute to this definition:
- Initial Purchase Price: The upfront cost of the printer is a significant determinant of whether it is considered cheap. Printers in the lower price range often sacrifice advanced features for affordability, making them suitable for budget-conscious consumers.
- Cost per Page: This metric evaluates the expense incurred for printing a single page, which includes toner and maintenance costs. A cheap laser printer typically offers a low cost per page, making it more economical for users who need to print frequently.
- Print Quality: While cheap laser printers may not have the highest specifications, they generally provide a satisfactory print quality for everyday use. They are well-suited for text documents and simple graphics, ensuring that even budget models can produce clear, legible outputs.
- Speed and Efficiency: Cheap laser printers are designed to offer decent printing speeds, often ranging from 20 to 30 pages per minute. This efficiency ensures that users can complete printing tasks quickly, which is crucial for small businesses or home offices.
- Connectivity Options: Basic connectivity features, such as USB and Wi-Fi, are usually included in cheap laser printers. These options allow users to print from various devices, providing flexibility without the need for expensive upgrades.
- Durability and Maintenance: Although cheaper models may not have the robust build quality of high-end printers, they are generally designed for moderate use. Regular maintenance and the availability of affordable replacement parts can extend the printer’s lifespan, making it a wise investment.
- Limited Features: Cheap laser printers often come with fewer advanced features, such as duplex printing or color printing. While this may limit versatility, it keeps the price low and focuses on delivering essential printing functions effectively.
What Key Features Should I Look for in a Cheap Laser Printer?
When searching for the best cheap laser printer, consider the following key features:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers a minimum resolution of 600 dpi, which is typically sufficient for text documents and basic graphics. Higher resolutions can be beneficial for professional-quality documents or images, so consider models that provide adjustable print settings.
- Speed: Evaluate the pages per minute (PPM) rate, as this determines how fast the printer can produce documents. A good cheap laser printer should deliver at least 20 PPM, which can greatly enhance productivity, especially in a home office or small business environment.
- Connectivity Options: Check for USB and wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, which allows for easy printing from various devices. Some printers may also offer mobile printing capabilities through apps or cloud services, adding convenience for users who print from smartphones or tablets.
- Cost per Page: Analyze the cost of toner cartridges and their yield to understand the overall cost of operation. A printer that uses high-yield toner cartridges can significantly reduce the cost per page, making it more economical in the long run.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer, especially if space is a constraint. Compact models are ideal for small workspaces, while larger printers may offer additional features like automatic document feeders or duplex printing.
- Durability and Warranty: Look for printers with a solid build quality and a reasonable warranty period, as this indicates reliability and longevity. A longer warranty can also provide peace of mind regarding potential maintenance and repairs.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands known for their reliability and customer service, as this can affect your overall satisfaction with the printer. Reading reviews and user experiences can provide insight into the performance and support you can expect from different models.
How Crucial is Print Quality for Budget Laser Printers?
Print quality is a critical factor to consider when evaluating budget laser printers, as it directly impacts the usability and professionalism of printed documents.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in DPI (dots per inch), determines the clarity and sharpness of the printed text and images. Budget laser printers typically have lower DPI compared to higher-end models, which can result in less detailed graphics and potentially smudged text when printing intricate designs or high-resolution images.
- Text Quality: For many users, particularly in office environments, the clarity of text is paramount. Affordable laser printers generally excel at producing crisp black text, making them suitable for everyday document printing; however, the quality can vary, with some models producing faded or uneven output over time.
- Color Accuracy: While most budget laser printers are monochrome, some models offer color printing. The color accuracy in these printers can be subpar, leading to dull hues and inaccurate representation of images. Users looking for vibrant color prints may need to invest in higher-end models for better results.
- Consistency: Consistency in print quality is essential for professional documents. Budget laser printers may struggle with maintaining uniformity across multiple prints, leading to variations in ink distribution or slight differences in text sharpness. This inconsistency can affect the overall presentation of printed materials.
- Durability of Prints: The longevity of printed materials is influenced by the print quality. Budget laser printers often use lower-quality toner and materials, which can result in prints that fade or smudge over time. For documents that need to last, investing in a printer with reliable print quality is crucial.
What Printing Speeds Can I Expect from Cheap Laser Printers?
The printing speeds of cheap laser printers can vary widely based on model and manufacturer, but generally, you can expect the following:
- Basic Models: These often have printing speeds ranging from 10 to 20 pages per minute (PPM).
- Mid-Range Models: Typically offer speeds between 20 to 30 PPM, striking a balance between cost and performance.
- High-Volume Models: Some budget-friendly options can reach speeds of 30 to 40 PPM, making them suitable for more demanding printing tasks.
Basic models, while being the most affordable, often sacrifice speed for cost, making them ideal for light home use or infrequent printing needs. They are perfect for users who primarily need to print documents without urgency.
Mid-range models provide a good compromise, offering increased speed at a reasonable price point, which makes them suitable for small businesses or home offices that require more regular printing without the need for a high-end printer.
High-volume models cater to users who need to print large quantities of documents quickly. Although they are still considered cheap compared to professional printers, their speed makes them a great choice for environments where efficiency is key.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Cheap Laser Printer?
The benefits of using a cheap laser printer are numerous and can significantly enhance both personal and professional printing tasks.
- Cost-Effective Printing: Cheap laser printers typically have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, especially for high-volume printing. This makes them ideal for individuals or small businesses looking to save on printing expenses over time.
- Fast Printing Speed: Laser printers are known for their quick printing capabilities, allowing users to print documents at a much faster rate than inkjet printers. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in busy office environments where time is of the essence.
- High-Quality Text Output: Laser printers excel at producing sharp, clear text, making them perfect for printing professional documents, reports, and presentations. The precision of laser technology ensures that text remains crisp even at smaller font sizes.
- Durability and Longevity: The toner used in laser printers is less prone to smudging and fading than ink, resulting in documents that can withstand handling and maintain their quality over time. This durability is crucial for important documents that may need to be archived.
- Low Maintenance: Cheap laser printers generally require less frequent maintenance compared to inkjet printers, which often need regular cleaning and ink replacements. This leads to less downtime and a smoother printing experience.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern cheap laser printers are designed to be energy-efficient, consuming less power during operation and in standby mode. This not only helps reduce electricity bills but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly printing solution.
- Versatility in Media Handling: Cheap laser printers can often handle a variety of paper types and sizes, making them suitable for a range of printing needs from standard documents to envelopes and labels. This versatility is a significant advantage for users with diverse printing requirements.
What Are the Top Affordable Laser Printers to Consider?
The top affordable laser printers to consider for budget-conscious buyers include:
- Brother HL-L2350DW: This compact monochrome laser printer offers fast printing speeds of up to 32 pages per minute and wireless connectivity options.
- HP LaserJet Pro M15w: Known as one of the smallest laser printers, the M15w is ideal for home use and delivers quality prints while being easy to set up and use wirelessly.
- Samsung Xpress M2020W: This printer combines affordability with quality, providing vibrant prints and a mobile printing option that allows users to print from smartphones seamlessly.
- Lexmark B2236dw: This budget-friendly printer offers automatic duplex printing and a relatively fast print speed, making it suitable for small office or home office settings.
- Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w: Compact and efficient, this laser printer is designed for home users or small businesses, offering wireless printing and high-quality output.
Brother HL-L2350DW: The Brother HL-L2350DW is a highly efficient monochrome laser printer that excels in speed and reliability. It features wireless connectivity, allowing users to print from their smartphones or tablets effortlessly. With a compact design, it fits well in small spaces, making it an excellent choice for home offices.
HP LaserJet Pro M15w: The HP LaserJet Pro M15w is renowned for its compact size, making it the smallest laser printer in its class. Despite its size, it produces high-quality prints and boasts wireless capabilities for convenient printing from various devices. This printer is perfect for individuals who need a reliable and straightforward printing solution without occupying much space.
Samsung Xpress M2020W: The Samsung Xpress M2020W stands out for its blend of affordability and quality. It offers vibrant print output and supports mobile printing via NFC and Samsung’s Mobile Print app, making it easy for users to print directly from their smartphones. Its compact design is ideal for those looking to save space while maintaining good performance.
Lexmark B2236dw: The Lexmark B2236dw is an economical choice that offers advanced features like automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and reduces costs. It boasts a print speed of up to 33 pages per minute, making it suitable for small offices or home use. The printer’s wireless capabilities also enhance its usability for multiple users.
Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w: The Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w is designed for efficiency, offering wireless printing and a compact footprint, making it suitable for home or small office environments. It delivers high-quality black and white prints and is easy to set up and use with its simple interface. This printer is an excellent choice for those who prioritize reliability and quality in their printing tasks.
What Common Problems Should I Anticipate with Cheap Laser Printers?
When considering the best cheap laser printer, there are several common problems you might encounter:
- Print Quality Issues: Cheap laser printers may struggle with consistent print quality, leading to faded text or uneven toner distribution. This can be particularly noticeable with graphics or images, resulting in a less professional appearance.
- Slow Print Speed: Many affordable models may not be designed for high-volume printing, resulting in slower print speeds compared to more expensive options. This can become frustrating if you frequently need to print large documents or multiple copies.
- Limited Paper Handling: Budget-friendly laser printers often come with a smaller paper tray capacity, meaning you’ll need to refill the tray more often. Additionally, they may not support various paper sizes or types, limiting your printing options.
- Toner Costs: While the initial cost of a cheap laser printer may be low, the cost of replacement toner cartridges can add up quickly. Some models use smaller cartridges that don’t last long, leading to higher ongoing expenses.
- Connectivity Limitations: Inexpensive laser printers might not offer advanced connectivity options, such as wireless printing or mobile app support. This can restrict convenience and accessibility, especially in a multi-device home or office setup.
- Durability and Build Quality: Cheaper models may be constructed with lower-grade materials, making them less durable over time. This can lead to more frequent repairs or replacements, counteracting any initial savings you might have enjoyed.
- Limited Features: Many budget laser printers come with basic functionality and may lack features like duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing) or scanning capabilities. This can be a drawback if you require multifunctionality for your printing needs.
How Can I Maintain My Cheap Laser Printer for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your cheap laser printer for optimal performance, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is essential for preventing dust and debris from affecting print quality.
- Use Quality Toner: Utilizing high-quality toner cartridges can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your printer.
- Update Firmware: Regularly checking for and updating the printer’s firmware ensures that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Proper Paper Handling: Using the correct type and size of paper prevents jams and misfeeds, contributing to better performance.
- Scheduled Maintenance: Implementing a maintenance schedule that includes checking for wear and tear can help catch issues before they become serious problems.
Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer clean is essential for preventing dust and debris from affecting print quality. Regularly wiping down the exterior and interior components, such as the drum and rollers, helps maintain clarity in prints and prevents buildup that can lead to malfunctions.
Use Quality Toner: Utilizing high-quality toner cartridges can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your printer. Cheap or off-brand toners may save money initially but can lead to poor print quality and potential damage to the printer, ultimately costing more in repairs and replacements.
Update Firmware: Regularly checking for and updating the printer’s firmware ensures that it runs smoothly and efficiently. Firmware updates can fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features, helping your printer operate at its best.
Proper Paper Handling: Using the correct type and size of paper prevents jams and misfeeds, contributing to better performance. Always store paper in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and curling, and ensure that you load it correctly into the tray.
Scheduled Maintenance: Implementing a maintenance schedule that includes checking for wear and tear can help catch issues before they become serious problems. Regularly inspecting components like the fuser and rollers for signs of wear will help ensure that your printer remains reliable over time.
Related Post: