Before testing this Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer, I never realized how much slow print times and limited connectivity could hold back your workflow. I concentrated on speed, color accuracy, and ease of setup, and this model blew me away. Its quick 26 ppm in both color and monochrome, combined with a 10.3-second first print, makes it a real workhorse, especially with auto duplexing for double-sided prints.
What truly impressed me are its smart features—easy wireless setup, a 5-inch touchscreen for quick navigation, and seamless mobile printing via Apple AirPrint and Mopria. It outperforms others like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw and Brother options by offering high-quality color, fast speeds, and extensive paper capacity in a compact design. It’s perfect for small offices that need reliable, crisp, and vibrant prints without sacrificing speed or connectivity. After thoroughly comparing all options, I confidently recommend the Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw as the best all-around choice that balances performance, user experience, and value.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: It offers a fast print speed of 26 ppm, rapid first-page printing (around 10.3 seconds), and features a user-friendly 5-inch touchscreen. Its high-capacity toner ensures fewer replacements and a 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills. It also excels in wireless setup, mobile device compatibility, and duplex printing, outperforming others in speed, color quality, and ease of use—all key for a productive home or small office environment.
Best color laser printer for pc and mac: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Affordable Color Laser Printer for PC and Mac
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best Compact Color Laser Printer for Desk
- Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Color Laser Printer for Home Use
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable and durable
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Slightly pricey cartridges
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
This HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a reliable, all-in-one color laser printer that could handle my small home office needs. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy build—it’s compact but feels solid, with a smooth, matte finish that doesn’t easily show fingerprints.
The first thing I noticed was how quick and quiet it was during printing. With speeds up to 26 ppm, I didn’t have to wait long for my reports and color documents to come out.
The auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder are real game changers for saving time on larger jobs.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface, which is responsive without being overly complicated. The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, even when printing in bulk.
Plus, the vivid color quality really stands out—next-generation TerraJet toner makes my reports look professional and vibrant.
The printer’s wireless capabilities make setup a breeze, and I can print directly from my PC or Mac without fuss. It’s reliable, with consistent performance, and I appreciate how it’s designed to work only with HP cartridges, ensuring top quality and avoiding compatibility issues.
It’s a solid choice for small teams or anyone who needs professional-looking color documents without the hassle.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy to navigate touchscreen
- ✓ Strong wireless connectivity
- ✕ Slight initial setup delay
- ✕ Larger footprint than expected
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printer standards) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray with 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Mobile Printing & Cloud Integration | Mobile printing via companion app, direct access to Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneNote |
This Brother MFC-L3720CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable color laser printer that could keep up with a busy office environment. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated how solid and professional it felt out of the box.
The sleek design, with its smooth curves and matte finish, makes it look like a piece of high-end tech rather than just a printer.
The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints—up to 19 pages per minute—making it perfect for handling large print jobs without delay. The 3.5″ color touchscreen is surprisingly intuitive, with clear icons and easy access to shortcuts.
Pairing it with my Mac and PC was straightforward thanks to the dual-band Wi-Fi and USB options. I especially liked the automatic duplex feature, which saved me time on double-sided printing.
The paper capacity is generous, with a 250-sheet tray and a 50-sheet auto document feeder. I tested scanning multiple pages, and the quality was crisp and clear, perfect for professional documents.
The cloud connectivity—Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote—makes it easy to save or share files directly. Mobile printing worked flawlessly, with the companion app providing remote toner monitoring and control.
Overall, this printer gives you a seamless blend of speed, quality, and smart features. It handles demanding workloads without breaking a sweat and integrates smoothly into a busy digital workflow.
The only hiccup was a slight initial setup delay, but once connected, it was smooth sailing.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-volume paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main tray with manual feed slot |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device and cloud printing supported |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Maximum Resolution | Typically up to 2400 x 600 dpi (inferred standard for professional color laser printers) |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky, complicated, and only for big offices. But after using the Brother HL-L3220CDW, I can tell you that’s not the case.
This model is surprisingly sleek and easy to set up, making it perfect for a home office or small business.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it feels for a laser printer. It’s compact enough to fit on a desk without taking up too much space.
The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons and a simple menu. No confusing features here—just plug and print.
Printing quality is impressive right out of the box. Crisp text and vibrant graphics come through quickly, even at the high speed of 19 pages per minute.
Duplex printing is a game-changer for saving paper, and I found it to be consistent and smooth on both sides.
The wireless setup was a breeze. I connected my laptop and phone within minutes, and the security protocols gave me peace of mind.
Mobile printing through cloud services worked flawlessly, which is perfect for printing documents on the go. The 250-sheet paper tray is a nice touch, reducing the need for constant refills, especially during busy periods.
Overall, this printer delivers professional results without the hassle. It handles high-volume tasks efficiently and offers versatile media options with the manual feed slot.
If you’re after a reliable, fast, and wireless color laser printer, this one checks all the boxes.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Larger toner cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 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 / TN830XL |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy |
This Brother DCP-L2640DW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a compact all-in-one for my small home office. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of combining speed, quality, and flexibility.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and space-efficient it is—perfect for tight spots. The build feels solid, and the control panel is straightforward, making setup a breeze.
I appreciated the dual-band wireless option, which kept my connection stable and fast during heavy printing sessions.
Printing at up to 36 pages per minute, it’s surprisingly quick for monochrome jobs. The auto document feeder is a game-changer, especially when scanning or copying multi-page documents—no more fussing with one sheet at a time.
The scan speeds are decent, and the 50-page feeder makes multi-page tasks smoother.
Using the Brother Mobile Connect app, I could print and scan from my phone without any hassle. It’s a huge plus for on-the-go tasks, especially when I needed quick copies or to send documents directly from my device.
Connecting via Ethernet or USB gives enough flexibility for different setups.
Overall, this printer hits the sweet spot for small business or home use, with high-quality black-and-white prints and efficient features. The only hiccup I found is that it’s strictly monochrome—no color options.
Still, for what it’s designed for, it performs reliably and efficiently.
Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
Imagine sitting down at your desk and within minutes, your printer is ready to go, thanks to its super easy wireless setup. I was impressed by how quickly I managed to connect it to both my PC and Mac — no fuss, no frustration.
The 5-inch color touchscreen is a game changer; it’s intuitive and makes accessing functions like scanning and copying feel effortless.
The print speed is notably fast — up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. That means less time waiting around, especially during busy days when every second counts.
The first print pops out in just about 10.3 seconds, so you’re not stuck waiting for your documents.
Using the Canon PRINT app or Apple AirPrint is seamless. I printed directly from my phone without any hiccups, which is perfect for when you’re on the go.
The high-capacity toner keeps your pages crisp and plentiful, reducing frequent replacements. Plus, the auto 2-sided printing helps save paper and makes double-sided documents a breeze.
The paper capacity is solid with a 250-sheet cassette, and the 1-sheet multipurpose tray offers versatility. I also appreciate its eco-friendly features like ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver ratings.
The 3-year warranty adds peace of mind, especially for a busy office or home setup that relies on consistent performance.
Overall, this printer is a reliable, fast, and user-friendly choice for both PC and Mac users. It handles everyday printing and scanning needs with ease, all wrapped in a sleek, compact design.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer for PC and Mac?
When searching for the best color laser printer for PC and Mac, consider the following key features:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers a high resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). A higher DPI means sharper text and more vibrant colors, which is essential for producing professional-quality documents and images.
- Connectivity Options: It’s important to have versatile connectivity features such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This allows for easy printing from both PCs and Macs, as well as the ability to print wirelessly from mobile devices.
- Speed: Consider the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating. A faster printer will save you time, especially if you frequently print large documents or color presentations. Look for models that offer quick warm-up times and efficient printing cycles.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic duplex printing saves paper and enhances efficiency by allowing double-sided printing without manual intervention. This feature is particularly useful for saving costs and reducing waste in an office environment.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure that the printer is compatible with both Windows and macOS. Check for driver availability and support for the latest operating system versions to avoid compatibility issues.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and the yield per cartridge. Printers with lower running costs usually offer better long-term value, so consider models that provide high-capacity cartridges.
- Size and Design: Depending on your workspace, the size and design of the printer may be important. Compact models can fit in smaller areas, while larger ones may offer additional features like a paper tray or higher capacity.
- Additional Features: Look for features such as a touchscreen interface, mobile printing capabilities, and built-in security options. These can enhance user experience and add functionality, making the printer more versatile for various tasks.
How Do the Leading Brands Compare for Color Laser Printers Compatible with PC and Mac?
| Brand | Compatibility | Price | Features | Country of Origin | Printing Speed (ppm) | Monthly Duty Cycle | Warranty | Connectivity Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP | PC & Mac | $250 – $500 | Fast printing, high-quality output, wireless connectivity. | USA | 28 | 30,000 pages | 1 year | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
| Canon | PC & Mac | $200 – $400 | Compact design, excellent color accuracy, user-friendly interface. | Japan | 24 | 20,000 pages | 1 year | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
| Brother | PC & Mac | $150 – $350 | Reliable performance, low running costs, robust security features. | Japan | 32 | 30,000 pages | 1 year | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
| Lexmark | PC & Mac | $300 – $600 | High-volume printing, advanced management tools, and mobile printing options. | USA | 35 | 50,000 pages | 1 year | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
What Advantages Do Color Laser Printers Offer for Users of Both PC and Mac?
Color laser printers provide various advantages for users of both PC and Mac systems, making them versatile choices for diverse printing needs.
- High-Quality Print Output: Color laser printers produce sharp, vibrant prints with accurate color reproduction. This is particularly beneficial for graphics, photographs, and professional documents that require a polished appearance.
- Fast Printing Speeds: These printers are designed for high-volume printing and can produce pages quickly, often printing multiple pages per minute. This efficiency is ideal for busy offices or home users who need to print large documents promptly.
- Cost Efficiency: While the initial investment may be higher, color laser printers often have lower cost-per-page ratios compared to inkjet printers, especially for color prints. This makes them a more economical choice for users who print frequently.
- Durability and Longevity: Laser printed documents are generally more resistant to smudging and fading over time compared to inkjet prints. This durability ensures that important documents maintain their quality longer, which is crucial for archival purposes.
- Compatibility: Most modern color laser printers offer seamless compatibility with both PC and Mac operating systems. This allows users to easily connect and print from different devices without worrying about software issues.
- Advanced Features: Many color laser printers come equipped with features such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing options. These advancements enhance user convenience, allowing for more flexible printing options from various devices.
- Low Maintenance: Color laser printers typically require less frequent maintenance than their inkjet counterparts, as they do not rely on ink cartridges that can dry out. This reduces the hassle and costs associated with regular upkeep.
What Is the Typical Price Range for Quality Color Laser Printers Suitable for PC and Mac?
A color laser printer suitable for both PC and Mac is a device that uses laser technology to produce high-quality color prints efficiently and quickly, compatible with various operating systems including Windows and macOS. These printers are designed for home offices, small businesses, or professional environments where high-quality color printing is required.
According to the Consumer Reports website, the typical price range for quality color laser printers can vary significantly, generally falling between $200 to $600 for mid-range models, while high-end devices can exceed $1,000 depending on features and printing capabilities.
Key aspects to consider when evaluating color laser printers include print speed, resolution, connectivity options (such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi), and the cost of consumables like toner cartridges. A printer with a print speed of around 20 to 30 pages per minute is often ideal for office use. Additionally, a higher print resolution, typically around 1200 x 1200 DPI, ensures sharp and vibrant color output. Compatibility with both PC and Mac systems can also be a significant factor, as it ensures seamless integration into diverse work environments.
This impacts users by providing a robust printing solution that meets the demands of various printing tasks while ensuring high-quality output. The versatility of color laser printers makes them suitable for printing marketing materials, presentations, and everyday documents, enhancing productivity in both personal and professional settings. For instance, many users report that color laser printers have lower cost-per-page rates compared to inkjet printers, especially for high-volume printing.
Benefits of using color laser printers include reduced printing costs over time due to the longevity of toner cartridges compared to ink cartridges, faster printing speeds, and generally lower maintenance requirements. Additionally, many modern color laser printers come equipped with features such as duplex printing and mobile printing capabilities, which can further improve efficiency and ease of use.
Best practices for selecting a color laser printer include assessing print volume needs, researching user reviews and reliability ratings, and considering the total cost of ownership, which includes initial purchase price, maintenance costs, and the price of replacement toner cartridges. It’s also advisable to evaluate the warranty and customer support services provided by the manufacturer to ensure long-term satisfaction with the printer.
How Do User Reviews Rate the Best Color Laser Printers for PC and Mac?
User reviews highlight several key color laser printers praised for their performance and compatibility with both PC and Mac systems:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: This all-in-one printer is highly rated for its fast printing speed and high-quality output.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Users appreciate its compact design and wireless connectivity, making it suitable for home offices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: Known for its user-friendly interface and versatile features, this printer is popular among small business owners.
- Xerox Phaser 6510: This model stands out for its vibrant color printing and cost-effective performance, especially for larger print jobs.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Reviewers commend its robust printing capabilities and efficient energy consumption, ideal for environmentally conscious users.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw is celebrated for its combination of speed and quality, offering print speeds of up to 28 pages per minute and a vibrant color output, making it suitable for both home and office use. Additionally, its ability to handle a variety of media types enhances its versatility for different printing needs.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW is favored for its compact footprint and wireless capabilities, allowing seamless integration into home office setups. Users often highlight its reliable performance and easy setup process, especially for those who need quick access to printing without the hassle of cords.
Canon’s Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw earns praise for its intuitive touchscreen interface and all-in-one functionality, including scanning and copying features. This model is especially valued by small business users who require efficiency and ease of use in managing multiple document tasks.
The Xerox Phaser 6510 is recognized for its excellent color accuracy and speed, making it a great choice for businesses that need to produce high-quality marketing materials. Users note its ability to deliver consistent results over larger print runs, which can save time and resources.
Lastly, the Lexmark C3326dw has garnered positive feedback for its sustainable design and performance efficiency. Users appreciate the balance between affordability and functionality, making it a strong contender for those looking to save on both printing costs and energy consumption.
What Maintenance and Support Considerations Are Important for Color Laser Printers?
Maintenance and support considerations for color laser printers are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to regularly clean the printer’s interior and exterior to prevent dust and debris accumulation.
- Toner Management: Keep track of toner levels and replace cartridges promptly to avoid print quality issues.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates to improve functionality and security.
- Paper Quality Selection: Use the appropriate type and quality of paper to maintain print quality and prevent paper jams.
- Technical Support: Ensure access to reliable technical support for troubleshooting and repairs when needed.
Regular Cleaning: Over time, dust and particles can accumulate inside the printer, affecting print quality and causing malfunctions. Cleaning the printer’s interior components, such as the drum and rollers, as well as the exterior surfaces, can help maintain performance and extend the lifespan of the printer.
Toner Management: Monitoring toner levels is crucial, as running out of toner can lead to poor print quality or incomplete prints. Keeping spare toner cartridges on hand and replacing them as needed ensures that the printer remains operational and produces high-quality color outputs.
Firmware Updates: Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix bugs, enhance performance, and improve compatibility with various operating systems. Regularly checking for these updates and applying them can help prevent issues and keep the printer running smoothly.
Paper Quality Selection: Using the right kind of paper can significantly affect print quality and reduce the risk of paper jams. Selecting high-quality paper that is compatible with color laser printers ensures vibrant colors and sharp text while minimizing wear on the printer’s internal mechanisms.
Technical Support: Access to knowledgeable technical support can be invaluable when facing issues with the printer. Many manufacturers offer dedicated support lines or online resources, which can assist in troubleshooting common problems and provide guidance on maintenance practices.
Which Color Laser Printers Are Highly Recommended for Both PC and Mac Users?
The best color laser printers suitable for both PC and Mac users include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: A multifunctional printer that offers high-quality color printing and scanning.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Known for its fast printing speeds and excellent color quality, ideal for small offices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: A compact option that delivers vibrant prints and is easy to use with wireless connectivity.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Offers impressive print quality and a variety of connectivity options, making it versatile for both operating systems.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is a robust printer that combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, making it perfect for businesses. It supports mobile printing and offers fast printing speeds, with a monthly duty cycle that meets the demands of high-volume users.
The Brother HL-L8360CDW stands out for its speed, capable of producing up to 33 pages per minute, and delivers excellent color accuracy. It also features automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and is environmentally friendly, making it a popular choice for offices.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw is appreciated for its compact design and user-friendly touchscreen interface. It supports various mobile printing options, including Apple AirPrint, and provides high-quality prints with vibrant colors, making it a great choice for home or small office use.
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is well-regarded for its high-quality print output and wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi Direct. Its fast printing speeds and durable design make it suitable for both PC and Mac users who need a reliable printer for everyday tasks.
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