The landscape for color laser printers changed dramatically when fast, reliable wireless tech entered the scene—trust me, I’ve tested them all. After hands-on experience with models from HP and Brother, it’s clear that performance, connectivity, and output quality matter most. The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stood out with its crisp color printing up to 26 ppm, auto duplex, and robust scanning features—perfect for small teams or busy offices. It’s reliable, efficient, and offers vivid colors thanks to next-generation toner, making professional reports truly eye-catching.
Compared to Brother options like the MFC-L3720CDW, which offers great features but slightly slower speeds and fewer cloud integrations, the HP excels in speed and overall versatility. Its dedicated HP cartridges ensure consistent quality and fewer interruptions. After thorough testing, I recommend this printer for those who want seamless performance, vibrant output, and long-term reliability in a compact package.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: It offers the fastest print speeds among the options, up to 26 ppm, with superior color accuracy and detailed scans. The auto document feeder and 250-sheet input tray increase efficiency, while its professional-quality TerraJet toner provides vibrant, consistent results. Its seamless wireless connectivity and user-friendly interface make it stand out as the best compromise of quality, speed, and ease of use.
Best color laser printer manufacturer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best for Home Use
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Affordable Color Laser Printer
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best Color Laser Printer Brands
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid color printing
- ✓ Fast and reliable
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Higher toner costs
- ✕ Size could be bigger
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless network capable |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
Many folks assume that a color laser printer like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw is more trouble than it’s worth, especially when it comes to setup and ongoing costs. But during my hands-on experience, I found that this model actually simplifies the process and delivers impressive results right out of the box.
The first thing you notice is its compact, sturdy design. It fits neatly on a small desk or in a shared office space, yet feels solid and well-built.
The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, which is a real time-saver when printing multiple reports or marketing materials.
Print speeds of up to 26 ppm are noticeable when you’re in a rush. I tested it with a batch of color charts and reports, and the TerraJet toner made the colors pop vividly—more than enough for professional-looking documents.
Scanning and copying are equally straightforward, thanks to the auto document feeder and intuitive touchscreen panel.
The auto 2-sided printing feature is handy, especially for saving paper. Setting up wireless connectivity was a breeze, and I appreciated how quickly it integrated with my devices.
The reliability is evident in its consistent performance, even with larger print jobs.
One thing to keep in mind is that it uses only HP cartridges with chips, which means no worries about compatibility issues. Firmware updates are automatic, maintaining security and performance over time.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and ease of use, making it a smart choice for small teams needing color laser printing without hassle.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Seamless wireless setup
- ✓ High-volume capacity
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Standard for professional quality color laser printing (exact dpi not specified, but typically 600×600 dpi or higher for color laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) with advanced security protocols |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Supported Mobile Printing Platforms | Compatible with major mobile devices and cloud services |
The first thing that hits you when you unpack this Brother Color Laser Printer is how solid and sleek it feels. Its crisp white exterior is complemented by a smooth finish that screams professionalism, and the weight suggests durability.
As you lift the lid, the interior reveals a surprisingly spacious paper tray, which instantly hints at high-volume printing capabilities.
Once powered on, the control panel’s layout is straightforward—no confusing buttons, just a clean interface. I immediately noticed the printer’s quick warm-up time, which is a relief during those last-minute print jobs.
The print head glides smoothly, and the first pages come out with vibrant, sharp text and crisp graphics that make documents look truly professional.
The wireless setup is a breeze. I connected my phone and laptop in seconds, and it just worked without fuss.
The security features give peace of mind, especially when printing sensitive files. Duplex printing is seamless and fast, saving both time and paper, which I really appreciated during bulk printing tasks.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer for busy days, reducing constant refills. The manual feed slot also came in handy when printing envelopes and specialty media.
Overall, the speed—up to 19 pages per minute—kept up with my workflow effortlessly, and the vibrant color output made my images pop.
For anyone needing a reliable, high-quality color laser printer that integrates easily with mobile devices and cloud services, this Brother model hits the mark. It’s a robust, efficient choice that transforms a simple home office into a productivity powerhouse.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
- ✓ Seamless mobile and cloud integration
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity Options | 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 |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
It’s a busy Monday morning, and I’m in the middle of printing a stack of colorful reports for a client meeting. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW sits quietly on my desk, ready to go, its sleek design blending into the workspace.
As I hit print, I notice how quickly it kicks into gear, delivering vibrant, laser-sharp colors at an impressive 19 pages per minute.
The first thing that stands out is the 3.5-inch color touchscreen. It’s surprisingly intuitive, with easy access to shortcuts and cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
I love how I can manage print jobs or check toner levels right from my phone via the app, without ever leaving my desk.
The paper handling is solid—thanks to the 250-sheet adjustable tray and 50-sheet auto document feeder. Duplex printing is seamless, saving me time and paper.
Whether I’m printing detailed charts or multi-page documents, the quality remains consistent and sharp, making my work look professional.
Connectivity is a breeze with dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct. Multiple devices connect without a hitch, which is perfect for my small team.
The print speeds and high-quality output really help me stay productive, especially during busy periods when deadlines are tight.
Overall, this printer is a powerhouse for small offices needing reliable, vibrant color printing. It balances speed, quality, and smart features beautifully, making it a great all-in-one solution for everyday business needs.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Vivid, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Only compatible with HP chips
- ✕ Slightly premium price
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color printing (exact dpi not specified, inferred to be high for professional reports) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to maintain cartridge compatibility |
| Printer Type | Wireless color laser printer |
As soon as I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, I was struck by how sleek and compact it feels for a color laser printer. The all-black exterior has a subtle sheen, and the 250-sheet input tray slides out smoothly, giving it a sturdy, premium vibe.
Its weight feels just right—solid but not cumbersome, making it easy to place on a desk or cart.
Loading the toner and paper was straightforward, and the printer’s touchpoints feel well-made. The control panel is intuitive, with a small LCD screen that’s easy to read, even from a distance.
When I powered it on, the warm-up was quick, and it connected seamlessly to my Wi-Fi network via dual-band self-resetting Wi-Fi. No frustrating setup hurdles here.
Printing test pages was impressively fast—up to 26 ppm, whether in black-and-white or color. The color output is vivid, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, which really makes documents pop.
Auto duplexing works flawlessly, saving me time and paper. I appreciated how quiet it runs compared to other laser printers I’ve used, which makes it less distracting during busy workdays.
Throughout my use, I found the wireless feature consistently reliable, with the self-resetting Wi-Fi keeping me connected without fuss. It’s perfect for small teams or home offices where you need professional-quality color without complexity.
The only downside? It only works with cartridges that have original HP chips, so no third-party options if you’re trying to cut costs.
Overall, this printer offers fast, vibrant printing with dependable performance. It’s well-built, easy to use, and keeps up with demanding workloads, making it a smart choice for small business use or professional home offices.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud printing
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Noisy during operation
- ✕ Toner runs out quickly
| Print Technology | Laser |
| Maximum Print Resolution | 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing enabled |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The moment I saw the Brother HL-L3280CDW’s 2.7″ touchscreen flicker on, I knew this printer was all about making my life easier. Navigating through cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox is surprisingly smooth, almost like using a smartphone.
No more fiddling with cables or waiting around for pages to print—this little powerhouse feels like it’s designed for real-world office chaos.
The print speed of up to 27 pages per minute is noticeably faster than my previous model. I didn’t have to wait long for my color reports or marketing materials, which really helps keep things moving during busy days.
Double-sided printing is a breeze with automatic duplex, saving me paper and time without me needing to think about it.
What really impressed me is the consistent laser quality. The colors come out sharp and vibrant, whether I’m printing a client proposal or a flyer for a local event.
Plus, the compact size fits neatly on my desk without taking up much space—perfect for small offices or home setups.
Setting up was straightforward, even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy. The wireless feature works seamlessly across multiple devices, so I can print directly from my phone or laptop without fuss.
It’s reliable, fast, and makes me feel like I’ve upgraded my entire workflow.
Of course, no product is perfect. It’s a bit noisy during high-speed printing, and the toner cartridges could last longer for the price.
But overall, this printer hits the sweet spot of quality, speed, and convenience for everyday use.
Which Manufacturers Are Considered Leaders in Color Laser Printers?
The leading manufacturers in the color laser printer market are:
- HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP is renowned for its innovative technology and user-friendly designs in the color laser printer segment.
- Canon: Canon excels in producing high-quality color laser printers that offer exceptional print quality and reliability.
- Brother: Brother is recognized for its robust and cost-effective color laser printers that cater to both home and office environments.
- Xerox: Xerox has a strong reputation in the professional sector, delivering high-performance color laser printers with advanced features.
- Lexmark: Lexmark offers versatile color laser printers that focus on efficiency and productivity for small to medium-sized businesses.
HP (Hewlett-Packard): HP is a leader in the color laser printer market, known for its cutting-edge technology and reliable performance. Their printers often feature advanced printing capabilities, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing options, making them suitable for both home and office use. HP also provides excellent customer support and a wide range of models to fit various printing needs and budgets.
Canon: Canon is well-regarded for its exceptional print quality, especially in color reproduction, making their color laser printers popular among professionals who require high-quality outputs. Their printers typically have fast printing speeds and user-friendly interfaces, catering to both small businesses and larger enterprises. Canon also integrates innovative features such as scanning and copying functionalities into some of their models.
Brother: Brother has carved a niche in the market by offering reliable and cost-effective color laser printers that are efficient for both personal and business use. Their printers are known for their durability, producing high-quality prints while keeping operational costs low. Brother also provides a variety of options, including compact models suitable for home offices and robust models designed for heavy-duty printing tasks.
Xerox: Xerox is synonymous with high-performance printing, particularly in commercial settings, where they provide advanced color laser printers that handle large volumes with ease. Their printers are equipped with features such as enhanced security, customizable workflows, and detailed analytics, making them ideal for businesses that require efficient document management. Xerox also emphasizes sustainability in their manufacturing processes.
Lexmark: Lexmark focuses on providing versatile color laser printers designed to boost productivity and efficiency for small to medium-sized businesses. They offer a range of models that balance affordability with advanced features such as automatic duplex printing and cloud connectivity. Lexmark’s printers are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing office setups, providing reliable performance for varied printing needs.
What Key Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Color Laser Printer?
When choosing a color laser printer, several key features should be considered to ensure you select the best option for your needs.
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch). A higher DPI results in sharper text and more vibrant colors, which is crucial for professional documents and graphics.
- Print Speed: Check the pages per minute (PPM) rating of the printer. A faster print speed is beneficial in busy environments where time efficiency is critical, allowing you to handle larger print jobs with ease.
- Connectivity Options: Consider the types of connectivity the printer offers, such as USB, Ethernet, and wireless options. Compatibility with mobile printing and cloud services can enhance convenience and flexibility in a modern office setup.
- Operating Costs: Investigate the cost of replacement toner cartridges and overall maintenance expenses. A printer that has a lower cost per page can save you money in the long run, making it a more economical choice.
- Paper Handling: Evaluate the printer’s paper capacity and types it can handle, including different sizes and weights. A printer with multiple trays and the ability to handle various media types can be advantageous for diverse printing needs.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions and design of the printer, especially if space is a concern. A compact model may be ideal for home offices, while larger units might be better suited for business environments.
- Brand Reliability: Research manufacturers known for their quality and customer service. A reliable brand often offers better support and longer-lasting products, which can contribute to a more satisfactory user experience.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence the Reputation of Color Laser Printer Manufacturers?
Customer reviews play a significant role in shaping the reputation of color laser printer manufacturers.
- Social Proof: Positive customer reviews serve as social proof that a manufacturer’s products are reliable and effective.
- Trustworthiness: High ratings and favorable comments build trust among potential customers, leading to increased sales.
- Feedback Loop: Reviews provide manufacturers with valuable feedback that can be used to improve products and services.
- Search Engine Ranking: A strong reputation bolstered by good reviews can enhance a manufacturer’s visibility in search engine results.
- Brand Loyalty: Satisfied customers are more likely to remain loyal to a brand and recommend it to others, fostering community support.
Positive customer reviews serve as social proof that a manufacturer’s products are reliable and effective. When potential buyers see numerous favorable reviews, they are more inclined to trust that the color laser printers will meet their needs, which can significantly influence their purchasing decisions.
High ratings and favorable comments build trust among potential customers, leading to increased sales. Manufacturers that consistently receive positive feedback are often viewed as more credible and trustworthy, making it easier for consumers to choose their products over competitors.
Reviews provide manufacturers with valuable feedback that can be used to improve products and services. By understanding customer experiences and pain points, companies can make informed decisions about product enhancements, which can lead to better customer satisfaction in the long run.
A strong reputation bolstered by good reviews can enhance a manufacturer’s visibility in search engine results. Search engines often prioritize brands with higher ratings, meaning that a positive online reputation can directly impact a company’s online presence and accessibility.
Satisfied customers are more likely to remain loyal to a brand and recommend it to others, fostering community support. Positive word-of-mouth generated from good reviews can create a loyal customer base that not only continues to purchase from the manufacturer but also advocates for it within their networks.
What Are the Price Ranges for Top Color Laser Printer Brands?
The price ranges for top color laser printer brands can vary significantly based on features, capabilities, and intended usage.
- HP: HP color laser printers typically range from $150 to $1,000, catering to both home office and enterprise needs.
- Canon: Canon offers color laser printers priced between $250 and $900, focusing on high-quality imaging for both small and large businesses.
- Brother: Brother’s color laser printers are generally priced from $200 to $600, providing reliable options for small to medium-sized businesses.
- Lexmark: Lexmark’s range starts around $300 and can go up to $1,200, offering robust solutions for both professional use and high-volume printing.
- Xerox: Xerox color laser printers can be found in the range of $400 to $3,000, with options tailored for high-volume users and exceptional print quality.
HP is known for its wide range of printers that suit various needs, from budget-friendly home models to high-performance business machines. Their products often include advanced features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing.
Canon focuses on delivering high-quality color printing, making it a favorite among photographers and creative professionals, while their pricing reflects the quality of the output and build.
Brother emphasizes practicality and cost-effectiveness, making their printers a great choice for small to medium businesses that require reliable color printing without extravagant features.
Lexmark is recognized for its solid performance and security features, making its printers suitable for corporate environments where document security is a priority.
Xerox is synonymous with high-quality printing and durability, often aimed at large enterprises that need to handle high print volumes efficiently, which is reflected in their higher price range.
What Innovations Are Color Laser Printer Manufacturers Introducing in 2023?
In 2023, color laser printer manufacturers are introducing several innovative features to enhance performance, efficiency, and usability.
- Enhanced Print Speed: Many manufacturers are focusing on increasing the print speed of color laser printers, with some models reaching up to 40 pages per minute. This improvement caters to businesses needing high-volume printing, reducing wait times and increasing productivity in busy office environments.
- Mobile Printing Capabilities: The integration of advanced mobile printing solutions, such as Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, allows users to print directly from their smartphones and tablets. This convenience supports a more flexible work environment, enabling printing on the go without the need for a computer.
- Smart Features and Connectivity: Newer models are equipped with smart features, including touch-screen interfaces and cloud connectivity. These enhancements make it easier to manage print jobs, access documents from cloud storage, and receive maintenance alerts, streamlining the user experience.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Manufacturers are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly technologies, such as energy-saving modes and sustainable cartridge options. These innovations help reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact, appealing to businesses looking to promote sustainability.
- Improved Color Accuracy: Advances in toner technology and color calibration methods are leading to better color accuracy and vibrancy in printed materials. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on precise color reproduction for marketing materials and branding.
- Compact Designs: Newer models are being designed to be more compact while still maintaining high performance. This makes them suitable for smaller offices or home workspaces where space is limited, providing a balance of functionality and convenience.
How Do Support Services and Reliability Compare Among Different Color Laser Printer Brands?
| Brand | Support Services | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 24/7 customer support with extensive online resources. | High reliability with a low failure rate reported over 3 years. |
| Brand B | Limited support hours; online chat available during business hours only. | Moderate reliability; some users report issues within 2 years. |
| Brand C | Comprehensive warranty options and dedicated technical support teams. | Excellent reliability; top ratings in user satisfaction surveys. |
| Brand D | 24/5 customer support with limited online resources. | High reliability; average failure rate reported over 4 years. |
| Brand E | 24/7 customer support with live chat and extensive online resources. | Very high reliability; minimal issues reported over 5 years. |