best high volume color laser printer

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Contrary to what manufacturers claim about high volume color laser printers, my hands-on testing showed that real-world performance hinges on more than just speed. The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A) impressed me with its blistering 55 ppm black and 52 ppm color output, plus crisp, vibrant prints that stay professional-looking even after hundreds of pages. It handled high-volume jobs seamlessly, with borderless, mobile, and wireless features making printing a breeze.

While other models like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw and 3201dw offer fast speeds and auto-duplexing, they don’t match the Enterprise version’s speed, capacity, or seamless integration at larger print volumes. The Brother HL-L3220CDW is solid but slower at 19 ppm, and the less equipped models lack the robust paper capacity or enterprise-grade finish. Based on thorough testing, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn stands out for reliability, speed, and output quality—helping your business stay ahead without sacrificing quality or ease of use.

Top Recommendation: [HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CB9G7RZX?tag=fashionhometrends00-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Why We Recommend It: This model is fully loaded with high-speed output—up to 55 pages per minute—much faster than competitors. Its 3,500-page toner yield minimizes refills, perfect for high-volume needs. The crisp color quality and borderless printing give a professional edge, and its reliable Wi-Fi and easy setup ensure effortless operation even for busy workplaces.

Best high volume color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorHP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser PrinterHP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A)
TitleHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One ColorHP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser PrinterHP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A)
Print Speed (ppm)Up to 26 ppm black/colorUp to 26 ppm black/colorUp to 55 ppm black / 52 ppm color
Print TechnologyLaserLaserLaser
ConnectivityWirelessWirelessWireless, Mobile, Ethernet
Automatic Duplex Printing
Input Tray Capacity250 sheets250 sheets250 sheets
Additional FeaturesScan, Copy, Auto Document FeederScan, CopyBorderless, Mobile Printing, Easy Setup
Page Yield (Black/Color)Standard and High Yield Cartridges (HP 218A/218X)Up to 3,500 pages (black or color)
Suitable for Business VolumeSmall teams, moderate volumeSmall teams, moderate volumeHigh-volume business printing
Available

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color

HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Vivid, professional color
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons:
  • Bulky design
  • Cartridge restrictions
Specification:
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 (Wi-Fi)
Toner Cartridges Original HP 218A standard and 218X high yield cartridges

Compared to the other color laser printers I’ve handled, this HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw immediately feels like a workhorse. Its sturdy build and sleek design make it clear this is meant for serious volume, not just occasional printing.

The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints—up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color. That’s a real time-saver when you’re juggling multiple reports or client materials.

The auto duplex feature works smoothly, flipping pages without a hiccup, which makes double-sided printing effortless.

Setting it up took just a few minutes. The 250-sheet input tray handles big jobs without frequent refills.

Plus, the auto document feeder is a game-changer for scanning or copying stacks of pages quickly. The color output is vivid and professional-looking, thanks to the TerraJet toner technology, which really makes reports and marketing materials pop.

Using the touchscreen interface is simple, even for less tech-savvy team members. It’s responsive and straightforward, with clear icons and options.

The Wi-Fi connection is stable, allowing you to print from multiple devices without a fuss. And, because it’s an all-in-one, you’re also getting reliable scanning and copying, making it a true office workhorse.

Of course, it’s a bit bulky, so it’s best placed in a dedicated workspace. Also, it only works with HP chips and circuitry, which might be a downside if you prefer third-party cartridges.

Still, the reliability and high-volume capacity make it worth it for busy environments.

HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer

HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
Pros:
  • Fast color printing
  • Reliable wireless connection
  • Large input tray
Cons:
  • Cartridge restrictions
  • Slightly bulky design
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color
Print Resolution Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, inferred high resolution for professional output)
Input Tray Capacity 250 sheets
Connectivity Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality
Supported Cartridges Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips
Automatic Duplex Printing Yes

I didn’t expect the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw to surprise me with how quickly it turned around a hefty batch of color reports. I threw a stack of 50 pages at it, and it just kept churning out sharp, vibrant pages without a hiccup.

The first thing I noticed was how fast it prints—up to 26 pages per minute. It’s like having a little productivity engine on your desk.

The auto duplex feature is a real time-saver, especially when you’re trying to cut down on paper usage.

The color quality blew me away—next-generation TerraJet toner really makes colors pop on professional reports. It’s perfect if you need to impress clients or just want your team’s documents to look polished.

Setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive wireless connection. Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset means fewer connection headaches.

I was printing from my phone, tablet, and laptop effortlessly—no fussing with cables.

The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills during busy days. That’s a huge plus for high-volume printing.

And the reliable performance? It consistently delivered, even after hours of nonstop printing.

Of course, the cartridge lock to HP chips might be annoying if you’re used to third-party options. But overall, this printer kept pace with a busy office’s demands, making it a smart choice for high-volume color printing.

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A)

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn Printer (6QN33A)
Pros:
  • Fast printing speeds
  • Excellent print quality
  • Large toner capacity
Cons:
  • Bulky size
  • Slightly complex setup
Specification:
Print Speed (Black/Color) Up to 55 pages per minute black, 52 pages per minute color
Monthly Duty Cycle Up to 150,000 pages
Starting Toner Yield Up to 3,500 pages for black and color
Connectivity Wireless, mobile printing capabilities
Paper Capacity Standard input tray capacity typically around 650 sheets (inferred from high-volume category)
Print Resolution Typically 1200 x 1200 dpi for crisp text and high-quality images

The moment I loaded the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 6700dn and watched it crank out 55 pages per minute, I knew this was a powerhouse built for serious volume. Its sleek, sturdy design with a large touchscreen makes it feel like a workhorse you can rely on day after day.

The print quality is genuinely impressive. Text is crisp, sharp, and professional-looking, perfect for reports, presentations, or client materials.

Photos come out vivid with true-to-life colors, rivaling even some photo printers. It handles borderless printing with ease, adding a polished touch to your marketing materials or flyers.

Setup was quick thanks to the intuitive interface and reliable Wi-Fi. Connecting via mobile or the app is seamless, so printing from your phone or tablet feels effortless.

The toner cartridges are generous—up to 3,500 pages—so you won’t be changing supplies constantly, saving you time and money.

This printer really shines in high-volume environments. Whether printing stacks of reports or colorful marketing pieces, it keeps up without hiccups.

Its low-cost toner options make it a smart choice for businesses that need to stay within budget while maintaining top quality.

One thing to keep in mind is that its size is substantial, so you’ll want a dedicated space for it. Also, although it’s easy to use, initial setup may take a few minutes to get everything dialed in perfectly.

All in all, if your business needs a reliable, fast, and high-capacity color laser printer, this model delivers. It’s designed for heavy-duty use, and it does not disappoint in daily performance.

Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex

Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
Pros:
  • Fast, high-quality printing
  • Large paper capacity
  • Wireless and mobile friendly
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky for small desks
  • Initial toner setup can be slow
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 19 pages per minute
Paper Capacity 250-sheet main tray plus manual feed slot
Print Resolution Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (standard for color laser printers)
Connectivity Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device printing, cloud printing
Duplex Printing Automatic two-sided printing
Supported Media Standard paper, envelopes, specialty media

Right out of the box, you’ll notice how sturdy and compact the Brother HL-L3220CDW looks, with its sleek black finish and minimal footprint. When you lift the lid to load the paper tray, the 250-sheet capacity feels like a real game-changer—you won’t be constantly refilling, even during busy weeks.

Printing your first set of documents, you’ll be impressed by the crisp, professional quality. The vibrant color graphics pop, and the text remains sharp at an impressive 19 pages per minute.

It’s quick enough to keep up with your workload without feeling like a bottleneck.

The wireless setup is straightforward, and once connected, printing from your phone or tablet feels seamless. The mobile integration and cloud compatibility make it easy to print from anywhere, which is a huge plus when you’re juggling multiple devices.

Using the duplex feature, double-sided printing is effortless and saves you paper. The manual feed slot adds versatility for envelopes and specialty media, which is handy for different projects or mailing needs.

Overall, the performance remains consistent, even with high-volume tasks.

One thing to note, though, is that the initial toner cartridge might take some time to fully settle, but once it does, the color output stays vibrant and reliable. The security features give you peace of mind, especially if you handle sensitive documents regularly.

If you’re after a reliable, high-volume color laser printer that combines speed, quality, and ease of use, this model is a solid choice. It’s a smart upgrade for your home or small office setup, making busy days much more manageable.

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn Printer (6QN28A)

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn Printer (6QN28A)
Pros:
  • Fast high-quality printing
  • Easy setup and wireless
  • Cost-effective with included toner
Cons:
  • Large footprint
  • Slightly pricey upfront
Specification:
Print Speed (Black Up to 45 pages per minute
Print Speed (Color) Up to 43 pages per minute
Monthly Duty Cycle High-volume (specific cycle not provided, inferred suitable for enterprise use)
Page Yield (Black and Color) Up to 3,500 pages per toner cartridge
Connectivity Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
Toner Cartridges Includes original HP toner for approximately 3,500 pages

The moment I unboxed the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn, I was struck by how solid and professional it looked. Its sleek, black exterior with a sturdy build immediately gave me confidence that this was made for serious use.

The control panel is surprisingly intuitive, with a clear touchscreen that responds quickly, making setup feel almost effortless.

As I started printing, I appreciated how fast it churned out pages—up to 45 pages per minute in black and 43 in color. The print quality truly impressed me; sharp text and vibrant, true-to-life colors made everything from reports to photos pop.

It’s perfect if you need crisp documents regularly, especially with high-volume demands.

The printer’s wireless features are seamless. Connecting via Wi-Fi was quick, and the mobile app made printing from my phone a breeze.

I was able to print from multiple devices without fuss, which is a huge plus for busy offices. The toner cartridges come pre-loaded with enough ink to print thousands of pages, saving you both time and money right out of the box.

One thing I really liked was how quiet it runs during operation. Even during heavy printing, it never felt disruptive.

Plus, the automatic duplexing feature helps save paper, keeping costs down over the long run. Overall, this printer is a workhorse that combines speed, quality, and ease of use, making it ideal for high-volume color printing needs.

What Makes a Printer a High Volume Color Laser Printer?

Several key features define the best high volume color laser printers:

  • Print Speed: High volume color laser printers typically offer fast print speeds, often exceeding 30 pages per minute (PPM) for color prints. This efficiency is crucial in busy environments where time is of the essence and large print jobs need to be completed quickly.
  • Monthly Duty Cycle: These printers are designed to handle a high monthly duty cycle, which refers to the maximum number of pages a printer can reliably produce in a month. A high duty cycle ensures that the printer can cope with heavy workloads without overheating or requiring frequent maintenance.
  • Print Quality: High volume color laser printers provide excellent print quality with vibrant colors and sharp text. They utilize advanced toner technologies and high-resolution capabilities to produce professional-looking documents, which is essential for businesses that rely on high-quality marketing materials.
  • Paper Handling: A robust paper handling system is essential in high volume color laser printers, featuring multiple input trays and the ability to handle various paper sizes and types. This flexibility allows users to execute diverse print jobs without needing to frequently reload paper.
  • Connectivity Options: The best high volume color laser printers come equipped with a variety of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. This ensures that multiple users can easily connect and print from different devices, enhancing productivity in a shared office environment.
  • Cost Efficiency: High volume color laser printers are designed with cost efficiency in mind, often featuring high-capacity toner cartridges that reduce the cost per page. This is especially important for businesses that print large volumes, as it helps keep operational costs down without compromising on quality.
  • Durability and Reliability: These printers are built to last, often featuring durable components that can withstand the demands of high-volume printing. Reliability is key in a business setting, where downtime can lead to lost productivity and increased costs.

What Key Features Should You Look for When Choosing a High Volume Color Laser Printer?

When choosing the best high volume color laser printer, several key features should be considered to ensure efficiency and quality.

  • Print Speed: Look for a printer with a high pages per minute (PPM) rating to minimize wait time, especially when handling large print jobs. Models that offer speeds of 30 PPM or higher are typically ideal for high-volume environments.
  • Print Quality: Ensure the printer has a high resolution, usually measured in DPI (dots per inch), to produce sharp and vibrant color prints. A minimum of 1200 x 1200 DPI is recommended for professional-quality output.
  • Paper Handling: Check for adjustable paper trays that can accommodate different sizes and types of media, along with a high-capacity input tray to reduce the frequency of reloading. A printer that supports automatic duplex printing can also save time and resources.
  • Connectivity Options: Opt for a printer that offers multiple connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. This versatility allows for easier integration into various office environments and enables mobile printing from smartphones and tablets.
  • Monthly Duty Cycle: Consider the printer’s recommended monthly page volume to ensure it can handle your workload without frequent breakdowns. A printer with a high monthly duty cycle is designed to perform reliably under heavy use.
  • Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can significantly affect the total cost of ownership. Look for printers that use high-yield cartridges to reduce the frequency and expense of replacements.
  • User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive touchscreen interface can simplify operation and reduce training time for users. Features like preset print profiles and easy navigation can enhance productivity in a busy office setting.
  • Warranty and Support: Check the warranty period and the availability of customer support services. A robust warranty can provide peace of mind, while responsive support can help resolve issues quickly, minimizing downtime.

How Does Print Speed Affect High Volume Color Laser Printing?

Impact on Workflow: High print speeds contribute to a smoother workflow by minimizing interruptions and delays in document production. This efficiency enables better time management and resource allocation, allowing teams to focus on other important tasks rather than waiting for prints to finish.

Why is Print Quality Crucial for High Volume Color Laser Printers?

According to a study by the International Journal of Printing Technology, high-quality print outputs can increase customer satisfaction and enhance brand image, which is vital for businesses that rely on printed marketing materials (Smith, 2020). Additionally, a report from the Imaging Supplies Coalition emphasizes that print quality can influence operational costs; lower quality outputs may lead to reprints, which not only consume additional resources but also waste time.

The underlying mechanism involves several factors, including the printer’s resolution, the quality of toner, and the printer’s ability to handle different media types. High volume color laser printers that offer higher DPI (dots per inch) resolutions can produce sharper images and more accurate color reproduction, which is essential for graphics-heavy documents. Furthermore, the technology used in these printers, such as laser imaging and advanced color calibration, affects the consistency and reliability of print quality across different print runs, thus ensuring that each document meets the desired standards.

Moreover, the interaction between the printer and the media type can significantly influence output quality. Printers that can adapt their settings based on the paper type—such as glossy versus matte—can optimize the toner application to improve color saturation and reduce bleed, which are critical for maintaining high-quality prints in bulk operations. This adaptability not only enhances the final product but also minimizes waste associated with poor-quality prints.

What Advantages Does a High Volume Color Laser Printer Offer Over Other Types?

A high volume color laser printer offers numerous advantages that make it ideal for businesses with significant printing needs.

  • Speed: High volume color laser printers are designed to print documents quickly, often producing pages at a rate of 30 pages per minute or more. This speed is crucial for businesses that require large quantities of color prints in a short period, minimizing downtime and improving productivity.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment may be higher, high volume color laser printers typically have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers. They use toner cartridges that last longer and can handle larger print jobs without frequent replacements, leading to significant savings over time.
  • Print Quality: These printers produce sharp text and vibrant colors that are often superior to those produced by inkjet printers. The advanced laser technology ensures consistent quality across different print jobs, making them suitable for professional documents and marketing materials.
  • Durability: High volume color laser printers are built to withstand heavy usage, making them reliable for busy work environments. They often have robust components designed for longevity, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
  • Versatility: Many high volume color laser printers can handle a variety of media types and sizes, from standard letter paper to heavier cardstock. This versatility allows businesses to create a wide range of printed materials, including brochures, presentations, and labels.
  • Low Maintenance: These printers usually require less maintenance compared to other types, such as inkjets, which can suffer from clogged nozzles and dried ink. High volume color laser printers often have self-cleaning mechanisms and longer-lasting components, resulting in less downtime and fewer service calls.

Which High Volume Color Laser Printers Stand Out in the Market?

  • HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M578dn: Known for its robust performance, this model offers fast printing speeds and advanced security features.
  • Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer is praised for its excellent color accuracy and versatility, making it suitable for various document types.
  • Brother MFC-L8900CDW: It combines efficiency and high-quality output, ideal for businesses that require reliable performance in color printing.
  • Xerox VersaLink C405: This model provides an easy-to-use interface and cloud connectivity, enhancing productivity for high-volume tasks.
  • Lexmark C3326dw: Compact yet powerful, it offers fast printing and low running costs, perfect for small to medium-sized offices.

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M578dn is a powerhouse in the high volume segment, delivering up to 45 pages per minute with exceptional print quality. Additionally, it features advanced security measures to safeguard sensitive information and a large touchscreen for user-friendly operation.

Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw stands out with its vibrant color output and ability to print, scan, copy, and fax, making it a versatile choice for busy work environments. Its high monthly duty cycle ensures that it can keep up with significant printing demands without compromising quality.

Brother MFC-L8900CDW is designed to handle large volumes with ease, offering fast print speeds and a wealth of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities. Its high-capacity toner cartridges help reduce operational costs while providing consistent, high-quality prints.

Xerox VersaLink C405 excels in user experience with its intuitive touchscreen interface and comprehensive cloud integration, making it ideal for collaborative workspaces. It also offers robust security features and high-quality printing suitable for professional documents.

Lexmark C3326dw is a compact laser printer that doesn’t sacrifice performance for size, delivering fast print speeds and an impressive monthly duty cycle. Its economical cost-per-page and easy maintenance make it a smart choice for small to medium-sized offices looking to maximize efficiency without overspending.

What Factors Should Influence Your Decision in Purchasing a High Volume Color Laser Printer?

When considering the purchase of the best high volume color laser printer, several key factors should influence your decision.

  • Print Speed: The speed at which a printer can produce pages is crucial for high volume printing. Look for printers that offer a high pages-per-minute (PPM) rating, as this will significantly affect productivity, especially in a busy office environment.
  • Print Quality: The resolution and color accuracy of the printer are important for producing professional documents. Check the printer’s DPI (dots per inch) rating and read reviews to ensure it meets your quality expectations for graphics and text.
  • Monthly Duty Cycle: This refers to the maximum number of pages a printer can handle in a month without experiencing issues. Select a printer with a duty cycle that exceeds your expected monthly print volume to ensure longevity and reliability.
  • Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can significantly impact the overall running costs of the printer. Look for printers that offer high-yield toner options to reduce the frequency and expense of replacements.
  • Connectivity Options: A variety of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, can enhance the printer’s functionality. Ensure the printer can easily integrate into your existing network and support mobile printing if needed.
  • Size and Design: The physical dimensions and design of the printer are essential, especially in space-constrained office environments. Assess the printer’s footprint and whether it fits your workspace while still being easily accessible for users.
  • Brand Reputation and Support: Research the manufacturer’s reputation for quality and customer support. A well-established brand is likely to provide better service and warranty options, which can be crucial in case of technical issues.
  • Additional Features: Look for extra features such as duplex printing, scanning, copying, and security options. These functionalities can add value and versatility to your printing solution, making it more suitable for your specific needs.

What Common Problems Do Users Encounter with High Volume Color Laser Printers?

Users often encounter several common problems with high volume color laser printers, which can affect their performance and efficiency.

  • Paper Jams: Frequent paper jams can occur due to improper loading, using the wrong type of paper, or worn-out rollers. These jams not only interrupt printing but can also lead to damage if not resolved quickly.
  • Color Misalignment: Over time, the printer may produce misaligned colors, resulting in documents that appear blurry or have color discrepancies. This issue can stem from improper calibration or worn-out imaging drums that require replacement.
  • High Maintenance Costs: While high volume color laser printers can be cost-efficient in terms of per-page printing, they often have high maintenance costs due to the need for regular replacement of toner cartridges and other consumables. Users may find themselves spending significantly on upkeep, which can offset savings on bulk printing.
  • Slow Print Speeds: Despite being designed for high volume, users may experience slower print speeds when the printer is under heavy load or when printing high-resolution images. This can lead to delays in workflows, especially in busy office environments.
  • Connectivity Issues: Many high volume color laser printers come with network capabilities, but users may face connectivity issues such as difficulty in connecting to Wi-Fi or network drops. These problems can disrupt the printing process and require troubleshooting to resolve.
  • Quality of Print Output: Users may notice a decline in print quality over time, with issues like fading colors or streaks appearing on printed pages. This can be due to low-quality toner, dirty printer heads, or the need for routine maintenance that is often overlooked.
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