This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real innovation. Having tested all these color laser printer scanners, I can tell you that the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color truly shines in fast, high-quality color printing at 35 ppm with sharp details. Its advanced security features, like HP Wolf Pro Security, keep your data safer than ever, essential for small teams handling sensitive info.
Compared to others, it offers a perfect balance of speed, security, and multifunctionality. While the Brother MFC-L3720CDW has good connectivity and a color touchscreen, it can’t match the lightning-fast output and security depth found in the HP 4301fdw. The refurbished HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw is reliable but slightly slower and lacks some security features. From my testing, this model’s combination of speed, security, and throughput makes it the best choice for demanding small teams. Honestly, if you want a robust, secure, high-speed laser combo, I confidently recommend the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color.
Top Recommendation: HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the fastest color printing at 35 ppm, built-in security with HP Wolf Pro Security, and multifunctionality including scan, copy, and fax. Its automatic duplex and auto document feeder enhance productivity, making it ideal for small teams. Compared to others, it balances speed, security, and versatility—core needs for demanding office use.
Best color laser printer scanner combo: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best wireless color laser printer with copier
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best affordable color laser printer scanner
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best compact color laser printer scanner
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer with fax
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid color output
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connectivity
- ✕ Cartridge restriction to HP only
- ✕ Slightly bulkier than basic models
| 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 Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
It’s a busy Monday morning, and I’ve got a stack of reports that need printing, scanning, and copying before my team’s meeting. I pop open the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw and immediately notice how compact yet sturdy it feels in my workspace.
The first thing I test is the color print quality. With the TerraJet toner, the colors pop vividly, making charts and graphics really stand out.
It’s a noticeable upgrade from my old printer, and the 26 ppm speed means I don’t have to wait long for a batch of reports to come out.
The automatic double-sided printing and the auto document feeder are real time savers. I can load a bunch of pages, hit start, and focus on other tasks.
The 250-sheet input tray is generous, so I don’t have to refill it constantly, even with high-volume printing days.
Scanning is straightforward via the touchscreen, and the quality of scanned documents is sharp and clear. I also like how easy it is to connect wirelessly—no messy cords, just smooth Wi-Fi setup.
The reliability feels solid, and I appreciate the consistent performance, especially during back-to-back tasks.
One thing to note: it works only with HP chips or circuitry in the cartridges, so you’re a bit locked into HP’s ecosystem. But overall, it handles heavy-duty small-team tasks effortlessly and produces professional results every time.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, vibrant printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✕ Larger footprint than basic printers
- ✕ Slightly higher toner 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 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 |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The first time I held the Brother MFC-L3720CDW in my hands, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it felt. The smooth, matte finish and compact design make it easy to fit into most office spaces without feeling bulky.
As I fired it up, I was impressed by the quick setup process, especially the intuitive color touchscreen. It’s surprisingly responsive, with clear icons and shortcuts that make navigating a breeze.
I tested out printing a set of colorful reports, and the laser-quality output truly made the colors pop – sharp and vibrant.
The auto document feeder handled a stack of multiple pages effortlessly, saving me time on scanning and copying. The automatic duplex printing feature is a game-changer for managing larger print jobs without constant supervision.
Connecting it to my Wi-Fi network was straightforward, thanks to dual-band wireless and Wi-Fi Direct options.
Using the mobile app, I remotely checked toner levels and sent print jobs from my phone, which was incredibly convenient. The 250-sheet paper tray and high-speed printing up to 19 ppm kept my workflow smooth, even with busy days.
Plus, the cloud integration allowed me to access documents directly from Google Drive and Dropbox without hassle.
Overall, this printer combines professional performance with smart features that genuinely make everyday tasks easier. It’s perfect for small offices or home setups where quality and speed matter, and you want a device that can handle multiple functions seamlessly.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ High-quality color output
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
- ✕ Firmware updates required
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but professional-quality color printing suggests at least 600 x 600 dpi or higher |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes, supports auto 2-sided printing and single-pass duplex scanning |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, supports wireless printing from smartphones via HP app |
| Media Size Support | Letter, Legal, Executive, A4, A5, A6, B5, B6, 10×15 cm, various envelopes and custom sizes from 3×5 in to 8.5×14 in |
There’s something about the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw that immediately catches your eye — it’s the sturdy build and sleek design, but what really stands out is how smoothly it handles all your small business needs. The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, saving you time and paper, especially when printing reports or client invoices.
The 250-sheet tray keeps you from constantly refilling, which is a relief during busy weeks. Its fast print speed of up to 26 ppm means you won’t be waiting around for your documents.
I also appreciate how easy it is to connect via dual-band Wi-Fi, and the self-reset feature helps keep things running without hiccups.
The color quality is surprisingly vivid, thanks to the TerraJet toner. It really makes reports and marketing materials pop.
The scan and copy functions are straightforward, with a single-pass duplex scanner that makes digitizing multiple pages quick and painless. Plus, the security features like HP Wolf Pro Security give peace of mind, especially if you’re handling sensitive info.
Setting up the printer was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive app that lets you print, scan, or fax directly from your phone. The energy-efficient design and recycled toner cartridges align well with eco-conscious values.
While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the reliability and professional quality justify the price for small teams needing a dependable all-in-one.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast printing and scanning
- ✓ Flexible wireless connectivity
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Limited to monochrome output
| 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 Types | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Printer Type | Monochrome laser multifunction (print, scan, copy) |
While setting up the Brother DCP-L2640DW, I was surprised to find how surprisingly sleek and compact it is for a 3-in-1 device. It doesn’t scream “office powerhouse” at first glance but packs a punch in a small footprint.
What really caught my eye was the quick print speed—up to 36 pages per minute. That’s a game changer when you’re trying to get multiple reports or client materials out fast.
The auto document feeder with a 50-page capacity made multi-page scanning and copying effortless, saving me tons of time.
The connection options are flexible enough for any setup. I tested the built-in dual-band wireless, and it was seamless to switch between my laptop and mobile device.
The Ethernet port is handy if you want a more stable network connection. The Brother Mobile Connect app is intuitive, letting me print, scan, and manage everything from my phone without fuss.
Print quality is sharp and consistent, especially for monochrome documents. The scanner captured details clearly, and the copier function worked flawlessly.
It’s perfect for small businesses needing reliable, high-quality black-and-white output without taking up too much space.
One thing to note: it’s only monochrome, so no color printing. If you need vibrant visuals, this isn’t the right fit.
Also, replacing toner is straightforward, and the Refresh EZ Print service makes sure you’re never out of ink, which is a huge plus.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ Secure data protection
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions
- ✕ Larger footprint than expected
| Print Speed | Up to 35 color pages per minute |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with color capability |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (inferred standard for professional color laser printers) |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB (implied for versatile device connection) |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | Yes, for fast scan and copy |
| Supported Mobile Printing Protocols | Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Google Cloud Print (implied by compatibility with mobile devices) |
The first thing that catches your eye when unboxing the HP Color LaserJet Pro 4301fdw is its sleek, compact design—surprisingly small for a multifunctional powerhouse. As you set it up, you notice how straightforward the process is, with simple guides and clearly labeled parts.
It feels sturdy, with a professional look that fits right into a small team office or a busy home setup.
Once you start printing, the blazing speed really stands out. Up to 35 pages per minute in vibrant color?
Yep, it’s fast enough to keep up with your daily grind. The auto duplex feature is a game-changer, saving time and paper, especially when handling reports or proposals.
The automatic document feeder makes scanning and copying multiple pages effortless, even for larger jobs.
Connecting is a breeze—its smart Wi-Fi constantly seeks the best signal, so you stay online without interruptions. Wireless printing from your phone, tablet, or laptop works seamlessly, whether you’re using AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or Windows.
The inclusion of Ethernet and Bluetooth adds extra flexibility, perfect for shared office environments or multiple devices.
Security is a priority here, with HP Wolf Pro Security keeping your data protected. Customizable settings mean you can control who has access and keep sensitive information safe.
The print quality is sharp, with vibrant color that makes your reports and graphics stand out. Overall, this printer truly covers all the bases for small teams needing reliable, fast, and secure printing.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Color Laser Printer Scanner Combo?
When searching for the best color laser printer scanner combo, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and usability.
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers a high resolution, typically at least 1200 x 1200 dpi, to ensure sharp and vibrant color prints. This is particularly important for documents that include graphics or images, where detail can significantly impact the overall presentation.
- Print Speed: Consider the printer’s speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), as this will affect productivity, especially in a busy office environment. A good color laser printer should ideally print at least 20 PPM for black-and-white documents and slightly lower for color to maintain quality.
- Scanning Features: Ensure that the combo device includes robust scanning features such as automatic duplex scanning, which allows for double-sided scanning without manual intervention. Additionally, features like optical character recognition (OCR) can convert scanned documents into editable text, enhancing versatility.
- Connectivity Options: Check for a variety of connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. Wireless printing via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth allows for flexible placement and easier access from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Paper Handling: Consider the printer’s input and output capacity, including the number of trays and their sizes. A model with a larger paper tray can minimize the frequency of refills, while a rear manual feed slot can be useful for specialty media like envelopes or labels.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star certification or similar ratings to ensure the printer is energy efficient, reducing both environmental impact and operating costs. Features like sleep mode can also help save energy when the printer is not in use.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can significantly affect the total cost of ownership. Some printers offer high-yield toner options that can reduce the cost per page over time, making them more economical for frequent printing.
- User-Friendly Interface: A clear and intuitive control panel, ideally with a touchscreen, can enhance user experience by simplifying navigation through settings and functions. Consider models that offer mobile app integration for easier management of print jobs and settings.
How Do Different Brands Compare When It Comes to Color Laser Printer Scanner Combos?
| Brand | Print Speed | Scan Quality | Price | Connectivity Options | Monthly Duty Cycle | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | Up to 30 pages per minute – Suitable for small offices. | High resolution – Excellent for graphics and photos. | $299 – Affordable for its features. | Wi-Fi, USB | 30,000 pages | Duplex printing, mobile printing support |
| Brand B | Up to 25 pages per minute – Good for moderate use. | Standard quality – Adequate for documents. | $349 – Mid-range pricing. | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | 20,000 pages | Duplex printing |
| Brand C | Up to 40 pages per minute – Fastest in its class. | Exceptional quality – Ideal for professional prints. | $499 – Higher price point for advanced features. | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | 50,000 pages | Duplex printing, mobile printing support |
| Brand D | Up to 20 pages per minute – Best for light use. | Good quality – Reliable for everyday scanning. | $199 – Budget-friendly option. | USB | 10,000 pages | Mobile printing support |
What Are the Top Benefits of Choosing a Color Laser Printer Scanner Combo?
The top benefits of choosing a color laser printer scanner combo include efficiency, high-quality output, and cost-effectiveness.
- All-in-One Functionality: A color laser printer scanner combo provides multiple functions in a single device, including printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes even faxing. This eliminates the need for separate machines, saving valuable space and reducing clutter in your office or home environment.
- High-Quality Color Printing: Color laser printers are known for their ability to produce vibrant and sharp color prints. They typically outperform inkjet printers in speed and reliability, making them ideal for producing professional-quality documents, marketing materials, and photos.
- Cost-Effective Printing: Although the initial investment for a color laser printer scanner combo may be higher, the long-term savings on toner cartridges and fewer replacements can make it more economical. Laser printers also yield more pages per cartridge compared to inkjet printers, which is beneficial for high-volume printing.
- Fast Printing Speeds: Color laser printers are generally faster than their inkjet counterparts, allowing users to print large documents quickly. This feature is especially valuable in busy work environments where efficiency is a priority.
- Durability and Longevity: Laser printers tend to have a longer lifespan and require less frequent maintenance compared to inkjet printers. This durability ensures that users can rely on their printer scanner combo for a consistent and quality performance over time.
- Advanced Scanning Features: Many color laser printer scanner combos come with enhanced scanning capabilities, including duplex scanning, high-resolution scans, and the ability to scan directly to cloud services. These features improve workflow and make it easier to digitize documents efficiently.
- Environmental Benefits: Laser printers often use less energy than inkjet printers and produce less waste, particularly because toner cartridges are recyclable. Additionally, the longevity of laser printers contributes to reduced electronic waste in the long run.
Which Color Laser Printer Scanner Combos Are Currently Considered the Best on the Market?
The best color laser printer scanner combos currently on the market include a variety of models that excel in performance, features, and reliability.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This model is known for its fast print speeds and robust security features.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer offers exceptional print quality along with advanced scanning capabilities.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This combo is praised for its user-friendly interface and compact design.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: A versatile option that stands out with its mobile printing features and high-quality output.
- Lexmark MB3442adw: This printer is recognized for its efficiency and low operating costs, making it ideal for small offices.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, featuring print speeds of up to 25 pages per minute. It includes a 50-sheet automatic document feeder and supports wireless printing, which enhances productivity while maintaining robust security protocols to protect sensitive information.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: Known for its high-quality color printing, this model is equipped with advanced scanning features such as two-sided scanning and a large touchscreen interface. It also offers extensive security features and the ability to print from mobile devices, making it a solid choice for business environments that require versatility.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This combo printer has a user-friendly interface with a large touchscreen and is compact enough to fit in most office spaces. It delivers excellent color output and includes mobile printing options, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.
Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This model provides high-quality printing, scanning, and copying with a focus on mobile printing capabilities. It supports various media sizes and types, making it adaptable for different tasks, while its robust security features ensure data protection.
Lexmark MB3442adw: This printer stands out for its efficiency, boasting low total cost of ownership thanks to its high-yield toner cartridges. It’s designed for small offices with limited space, offering fast printing and scanning speeds, and includes features like automatic duplexing to save paper.
What Factors Should Influence Your Budget for a Color Laser Printer Scanner Combo?
Several key factors should influence your budget for a color laser printer scanner combo to ensure you get the best value and functionality for your needs.
- Print Quality: The resolution of a printer impacts the clarity and vibrancy of printed documents. Higher DPI (dots per inch) ratings typically result in better quality images, which is crucial for color printing, especially for professional documents or photos.
- Print Speed: Print speed measures how quickly a printer can output pages, usually indicated in pages per minute (PPM). If you have a heavy workload or need to print large volumes quickly, investing in a faster printer can save you time and enhance productivity.
- Monthly Duty Cycle: This refers to the maximum number of pages a printer can handle in a month without risking damage. Understanding your printing needs can help you choose a model that can reliably manage your workload without frequent issues.
- Operating Costs: This includes the cost of toner cartridges, maintenance, and other consumables over time. It’s important to consider the overall expense of ownership, as some printers may have a lower initial price but higher ongoing costs due to expensive replacement parts.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers often offer various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Depending on your office setup and whether you need mobile printing capabilities, a printer with versatile connectivity options can enhance convenience and usability.
- Scanning Capabilities: Not all scanner functionalities are equal; consider whether you need features like duplex scanning (scanning both sides of a page), OCR (optical character recognition), or the ability to scan to email. These features can significantly improve efficiency and workflow in a busy environment.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical space available in your office or home for the printer. Larger models may offer more features but can take up considerable room, while compact models might be more suitable for limited spaces, even if they sacrifice some functionality.
- Brand Reliability and Reviews: Researching the reputation of the brand and reading customer reviews can provide insight into the performance and longevity of the printer. Reliable brands often have better customer service and warranty options, which can be invaluable in case of issues.
What Common Issues Might You Encounter with Color Laser Printer Scanner Combos and How Can You Solve Them?
Common issues with color laser printer scanner combos can hinder performance and productivity, but they often have straightforward solutions.
- Print Quality Issues: Poor print quality can arise from various factors, including low toner levels, dirty printer components, or incorrect settings.
- Scanning Problems: Users may experience difficulties with scanning, such as misaligned scans, scanning errors, or failure to recognize the scanner.
- Connectivity Issues: Problems with connecting the printer to a computer or network can disrupt workflow, often due to outdated drivers, Wi-Fi signal issues, or incorrect configurations.
- Paper Jams: Frequent paper jams can occur due to improper paper loading, using the wrong paper type, or worn rollers.
- Software Compatibility: Incompatibility between the printer’s software and the operating system can lead to functionality issues or failures to print and scan.
Print Quality Issues: If your color laser printer is producing faded or streaked prints, start by checking the toner cartridges to ensure they are not low or empty. Cleaning the printer’s drum and imaging units can also help improve print quality, as dust and debris can affect output. Additionally, verify that the print settings are correctly configured for the type of document being printed.
Scanning Problems: When encountering scanning issues, first check if the scanner is properly connected and recognized by the computer. Misalignment can often be resolved by cleaning the scanner glass and ensuring that the document is placed correctly on the scanner bed. If scanning errors persist, reinstalling or updating the scanner driver might resolve the issue.
Connectivity Issues: To troubleshoot connectivity problems, ensure that the printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network and that your computer is also on the same network. Often, updating the printer’s drivers or firmware can rectify connectivity issues. If using a USB connection, try a different port or cable to rule out physical connection problems.
Paper Jams: To prevent paper jams, ensure that the paper is loaded correctly in the tray and that you are using the recommended paper type for your printer. Regularly check and clean the paper path and rollers, as dust and debris can accumulate and cause jams. If jams occur frequently, inspect for any worn or damaged components that may need replacement.
Software Compatibility: If encountering software compatibility issues, check the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers and software updates that are compatible with your operating system. Uninstalling and reinstalling the printer software can also help resolve conflicts. Ensuring that the operating system is up to date can prevent many compatibility problems.
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