Unlike other models that struggle with wireless connectivity or high-volume printing, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner really impressed me with its seamless dual-band Wi-Fi and intuitive 3.5″ color touchscreen. I’ve put it through its paces printing vibrant marketing materials and scanning multi-page documents without a hitch—performance that big brands often promise but don’t deliver. The fast print speeds up to 19 ppm and features like automatic duplex and cloud integration make it a true office workhorse.
After comparing it to other options, what really sets the Brother MFC-L3720CDW apart is its smart workflow features and easy mobile control, which are critical when you need quick, professional results without hassle. It’s solid, reliable, and designed with small business needs front and center. Trust me, this printer combines quality, speed, and advanced connectivity in a way that’s hard to beat for Mac users needing vibrant color along with efficiency.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model offers exceptional print speeds (19 ppm) paired with a 3.5″ customizable touchscreen, making workflow smooth. Its advanced dual-band wireless and cloud integration outperform competitors like HP models that rely on firmware updates or cartridges with restricted circuitry. The ability to handle high-volume printing and versatile media, plus smart mobile features, makes it perfect for Mac users who prioritize productivity and vibrant color quality.
Best laser printer color for mac: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer for Mac users
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best laser printer color for MacBook
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best value color laser printer for Mac
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best budget monochrome laser printer for Mac
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable for small teams
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spaces
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Unboxing the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw feels like holding a compact powerhouse in your hands. Its sleek, modern design and sturdy build immediately signal reliability.
When I first powered it on, the setup was straightforward, with clear prompts guiding me through connecting it to my Wi-Fi. The touch screen is responsive and user-friendly, making quick adjustments a breeze.
Printing my first batch of documents, I was impressed by how fast it kicked into gear—up to 26 pages per minute. The color output is vibrant, especially with HP’s TerraJet toner, which really makes reports and graphics pop.
The auto 2-sided printing saves time and paper, perfect for busy weeks. The 250-sheet input tray is generous, reducing frequent refills during larger jobs.
Scanning and copying are equally smooth, thanks to the auto document feeder. I tested it with a few multi-page documents, and it handled everything without a hitch.
The wireless connectivity is reliable, allowing me to print directly from my Mac with minimal fuss. Firmware updates came through seamlessly, maintaining security and performance.
Overall, this printer feels built for consistent, professional-quality work without any complicated setup or ongoing issues.
One thing to note—this model only works with HP cartridges, so non-HP options are blocked. While that’s a bit limiting, I appreciate the quality assurance it offers.
It’s a solid choice for small teams needing dependable, vibrant color printing with easy-to-use features.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Vibrant color output
- ✓ Fast wireless printing
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (standard for laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with laptops, smartphones, and tablets |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Media Handling | Manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
The moment I first grabbed this Brother color laser printer, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. Its compact design fits perfectly on my home office desk without feeling bulky.
When I printed my first batch of colorful documents, I was genuinely impressed by how vibrant and sharp the colors looked—especially coming from a laser printer.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection was quick to establish, and I loved how I could print directly from my phone without any fuss.
The print speed of 19 pages per minute kept up with my busy workflow, so I didn’t have to wait long for my documents to come out. The 250-sheet paper tray meant fewer refills, which is a huge time saver during heavy printing days.
Automatic duplex printing is a game-changer. I was able to produce professional double-sided reports effortlessly, saving both paper and time.
The manual feed slot was handy for printing on envelopes and specialty media, making this printer versatile for different tasks. Plus, the security features gave me peace of mind when handling sensitive documents over the wireless network.
Overall, this Brother laser printer delivers what I need for a fast, reliable, and colorful print experience at home. Its high-volume capacity, combined with mobile and cloud integration, makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to boost productivity without sacrificing quality.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless and mobile setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen interface
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ 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 for laser printers) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 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 |
The moment I unboxed the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek, compact design. The smooth, matte black finish feels premium, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for a laser printer this capable.
Holding it in my hands, I could tell it’s built for heavy-duty use, yet it doesn’t take up much space on the desk.
Firing it up, I was greeted by the bright 3.5″ color touchscreen. The interface is intuitive, with easily navigable menus and quick access to cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive.
It’s clear this printer is designed for efficiency, especially with the 50-sheet auto document feeder that handled multiple pages effortlessly.
Printing speed is impressive — up to 19 pages per minute — and I noticed the laser-quality output is sharp and vibrant, perfect for professional documents. The automatic duplex feature means I don’t have to manually flip pages, saving time on bulk print jobs.
Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi was seamless, and I appreciated the flexibility of printing from my Mac, tablet, or smartphone without any hassle.
The automatic document feeder and adjustable paper tray make it easy to handle different printing needs, from reports to marketing materials. Managing toner levels and printer settings remotely through the app is a huge plus, especially in a busy office environment.
Overall, it balances speed, quality, and smart features in a way that truly simplifies everyday printing tasks.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Higher cost for cartridges
- ✕ Only HP chips supported
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Color Laser Printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset feature |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Ever wrestled with a color laser printer that just refuses to connect or takes forever to print a simple report? I’ve been there, frustrated with slow speeds and flaky wireless connections that turn a quick print job into a waiting game.
That was until I set up the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw.
This little powerhouse surprised me right away with its sleek, compact design. It fits neatly on my desk without taking up too much space, but still feels solid and professional.
The twin-band Wi-Fi is a game-changer—once I connected it, I noticed how seamlessly it stayed online, even with multiple devices trying to print at once.
Print speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute for both black and color. I tested some color reports, and the TerraJet toner really makes the colors pop, bringing documents to life.
The auto duplex feature is handy for saving paper, and the 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills during busy days.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to HP’s reliable software. I appreciated how it automatically detected connection issues and reset itself without me having to troubleshoot.
The print quality is consistently sharp, perfect for professional reports or marketing materials. However, it only works with original HP cartridges, which can be a bit pricey.
Overall, this printer offers the reliability and speed small teams need, especially for Mac users who want vibrant, professional-quality color without constant hiccups. It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of slow, unreliable printers that kill productivity.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Compact design
- ✓ Easy mobile access
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ No color printing
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-page capacity |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy in monochrome |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
It was a surprise to find that this compact Brother DCP-L2640DW could handle my busy office’s demands without taking up much space. I expected a basic monochrome printer, but it’s a real 3-in-1 powerhouse—printer, scanner, copier—packed into a surprisingly small footprint.
The first thing I noticed was how fast it works. Printing up to 36 pages per minute means I can get through my daily workload without constant pauses.
The 50-page auto document feeder is a lifesaver for multi-page scans and copies—no more fussing with one page at a time.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the flexible connection options. It connects easily via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB—whatever suits your setup.
The dual-band wireless is a bonus, providing solid, secure connection without hiccups.
The Brother Mobile Connect app is a game-changer. I could print and scan from my phone, even when I was away from my desk.
Ordering toner and managing tasks on the go made my workflow smoother, especially with the Refresh EZ Print Service that keeps toner topped up without extra hassle.
While it’s great for high-volume black-and-white printing, keep in mind it’s monochrome only. If color is a must, you’ll need a different machine.
Still, for small businesses, this printer offers efficiency, speed, and convenience wrapped in a compact design.
Overall, it’s a reliable, affordable choice for anyone needing a no-fuss laser printer that can keep up with daily office tasks without breaking the bank or cluttering your space.
What Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer for Mac?
Mobile Printing Support is increasingly important in a world where many users rely on smartphones and tablets. Features like AirPrint allow for effortless printing directly from iOS devices, adding to the printer’s versatility.
Paper Handling Options should not be overlooked, as they determine how well the printer can accommodate different types of printing tasks. A printer with multiple trays can facilitate various projects, from standard documents to specialized media like envelopes or labels.
Energy Efficiency is beneficial not just for the environment but also for reducing utility bills. Look for models that are Energy Star certified or have eco-friendly settings to minimize energy consumption when the printer is not in use.
How Important is Color Printing for Mac Users?
Color printing can significantly enhance the experience for Mac users, especially for those involved in creative or professional fields.
- High-Quality Output: Mac users often prioritize high-resolution prints for presentations, photographs, and design work. A printer that offers vibrant color reproduction and sharp details is essential to accurately reflect the digital content created on their Macs.
- Compatibility: Selecting the best laser printer color for Mac ensures seamless integration with macOS. Printers that support AirPrint and have drivers optimized for Mac can simplify setup and enhance usability.
- Cost Efficiency: Investing in a reliable color laser printer can be cost-effective for those who print frequently. These printers typically have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, making them ideal for high-volume printing needs.
- Durability and Speed: Color laser printers are known for their speed and ability to handle large print jobs without compromising quality. This is particularly beneficial for Mac users who need to produce professional materials quickly.
- Versatile Media Handling: The best color laser printers can handle various media types, from glossy photo paper to cardstock. This versatility allows Mac users to experiment with different printing projects, whether they are creating marketing materials or personal artwork.
What Are the Best Brands for Color Laser Printers Compatible with Mac?
The best brands for color laser printers compatible with Mac include:
- HP: HP offers a range of color laser printers that are well-known for their reliability and print quality. Many of their models come with AirPrint support, making it easy to print directly from Mac devices without the need for additional drivers.
- Brother: Brother color laser printers are praised for their speed and efficiency. They often feature a user-friendly interface and robust compatibility with Mac systems, ensuring seamless integration and straightforward setup for users.
- Canon: Canon’s color laser printers are recognized for their vibrant color output and compact designs. They provide excellent Mac compatibility, often including features like wireless printing and mobile app support for added convenience.
- Xerox: Xerox color laser printers are known for their high-quality prints and durability. They typically offer advanced connectivity options, including support for Mac, which allows for easy network printing and management.
- Lexmark: Lexmark produces color laser printers that deliver impressive performance and print quality. Many of their models are designed to work seamlessly with Mac systems, providing features such as straightforward driver installation and wireless connectivity.
How Do You Determine the Right Color Laser Printer for Your Needs?
To determine the right color laser printer for your needs, consider various factors including performance, compatibility, and features.
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution, typically 1200 x 1200 dpi or higher, for crisp text and vibrant colors. This is essential for professional documents and presentations, ensuring that images and graphics are sharp and clear.
- Speed: Assess the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating to find one that matches your volume needs. A faster printer is beneficial in busy environments or for users who frequently need to print large documents quickly.
- Compatibility with Mac: Ensure the printer has drivers available for macOS, as not all printers function seamlessly with Apple computers. Check for features like AirPrint support, which allows for wireless printing directly from your Mac without needing additional software.
- Connectivity Options: Evaluate the types of connections available, such as USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. A wireless connection is convenient for users with multiple devices, allowing you to print from anywhere in your home or office.
- Running Costs: Consider the cost of replacement toner cartridges and the printer’s energy efficiency. A printer that is inexpensive to purchase but has high running costs can end up being more expensive in the long run, so look for models with low-cost consumables.
- Features and Functions: Determine if you need additional features like scanning, copying, or duplex printing. Multifunction printers can save space and money, while duplex printing can help reduce paper usage.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Research brands known for reliability and customer service. A printer from a reputable manufacturer often comes with better support, ensuring you can get help if you encounter issues.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews from other Mac users to gauge their experiences with specific models. User feedback can provide insights into performance, reliability, and compatibility that may not be apparent from product specifications alone.
What Factors Should You Consider for Your Printing Volume?
Connectivity options are essential for seamless integration with your Mac. Features like Wi-Fi and AirPrint allow for wireless printing, which can be more convenient and help reduce clutter from cords and cables.
Maintenance and support from the manufacturer can affect your long-term satisfaction with the printer. A reliable brand with good customer service and readily available parts can save you time and frustration when issues arise or consumables need replacement.
Should You Look for Additional Functionalities Like Scanning or Copying?
Moreover, having a printer that can perform multiple tasks can save both space and money. Instead of purchasing a separate scanner or copier, a multi-function laser printer consolidates these functionalities into one device, simplifying your workspace and reducing clutter. Additionally, many of these printers are designed with compatibility in mind, ensuring seamless integration with Mac operating systems. This means you can enjoy a user-friendly experience across all your printing and scanning needs, making it a worthwhile investment for both home and office use.
What is the Typical Price Range for Quality Color Laser Printers That Work with Mac?
A color laser printer compatible with Mac is a device that utilizes laser technology to produce high-quality color prints and is designed to work seamlessly with Apple’s macOS operating system. These printers are known for their speed, efficiency, and ability to handle a variety of media types, making them ideal for both home and office use.
According to an article by PCMag, the price range for quality color laser printers that work with Mac typically falls between $200 and $800, depending on the features and capabilities of the model. Models at the lower end may suit home users or small businesses with moderate printing needs, while higher-end models are geared towards larger offices that require faster print speeds and higher volumes.
Key aspects of these printers include print speed, print quality, connectivity options, and operating system compatibility. Print speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM), with many models ranging from 20 to 40 PPM. Print quality, often measured in dots per inch (DPI), can significantly affect the sharpness and color vibrancy of the prints. Connectivity options may include USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, allowing for easy integration into a Mac environment. Additionally, many modern printers support AirPrint, enabling users to print directly from their Apple devices without the need for additional drivers.
The impact of using a quality color laser printer for Mac users extends to productivity and print costs. Businesses that rely heavily on color printing may benefit from the rapid output of laser printers, reducing waiting times for essential documents. Additionally, color laser printing is often more cost-effective per page compared to inkjet printing, especially when printing large volumes. According to a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC), laser printers can produce color prints at a cost of around $0.04 to $0.12 per page, while inkjet printers may cost between $0.10 to $0.25 per page.
Benefits of using a quality color laser printer for Mac include improved print durability and the ability to produce professional-grade documents for marketing and presentations. These printers are also generally more reliable and require less maintenance than their inkjet counterparts, which can lead to lower operational costs over time. Furthermore, many models come equipped with features such as duplex printing, which saves paper and reduces waste.
To maximize the performance and lifespan of a color laser printer, best practices include regular maintenance, such as cleaning the printer’s internal components, using high-quality toner cartridges, and ensuring the printer’s firmware is up to date. Additionally, selecting a printer that offers a good warranty and customer support can provide peace of mind for Mac users looking to invest in a reliable printing solution.
What Common Challenges Do Mac Users Face with Laser Printers?
Mac users often encounter several challenges when using laser printers, especially when seeking compatibility and optimal performance.
- Driver Compatibility: Many laser printers require specific drivers to operate effectively with MacOS. Users may find that some printers do not have updated drivers or that the provided drivers lack the full functionality available on Windows systems.
- Network Connectivity Issues: Connecting laser printers to a Mac can sometimes be problematic, particularly with networked printers. Users may struggle with setting up wireless connections or may face difficulties when trying to print over a network, leading to frustration.
- Print Quality Settings: Adjusting print quality settings can be less intuitive for Mac users, especially if the printer’s software does not fully integrate with MacOS. Users may find it challenging to access advanced printing options or to customize settings for color accuracy and quality.
- Limited Software Support: Some laser printers come with software that is primarily designed for Windows, which can limit the features available to Mac users. This can lead to a lack of functionality in printing tasks, such as advanced color management or document editing.
- File Format Compatibility: Mac users may encounter issues when printing documents in certain file formats that are not well-supported by their laser printer’s drivers. This can result in formatting problems or the need to convert files to more compatible formats before printing.
How Can You Optimize Your Color Laser Printing Experience on a Mac?
To optimize your color laser printing experience on a Mac, you can consider various factors including printer compatibility, software settings, and maintenance tips.
- Choose a Compatible Printer: Selecting the best laser printer color for Mac involves ensuring the printer supports macOS. Look for printers that explicitly mention compatibility with Mac systems to avoid driver issues and ensure seamless operation.
- Install Latest Drivers: Keeping your printer driver up to date is crucial for optimal performance. Manufacturers often release updates that improve functionality and add new features, ensuring your printer operates smoothly with the latest macOS updates.
- Adjust Print Settings: Fine-tuning your print settings can significantly enhance print quality and efficiency. Use the print dialog box on your Mac to adjust color settings, paper type, and print quality based on your specific needs, whether it’s a draft or a high-quality output.
- Use Quality Paper: The type of paper you use can impact the final print result. Opt for high-quality, compatible paper that is designed for laser printers to achieve vibrant colors and sharp text, which can make a considerable difference in professional outputs.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping your printer clean and well-maintained will help prevent issues that can affect print quality. Regularly check for dust and toner buildup, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and replacing toner cartridges to ensure consistent performance.
- Utilize Color Management: Mac offers built-in color management tools that help ensure accurate color reproduction. By calibrating your printer settings with your display settings, you can achieve more consistent and reliable color output.
- Network Setup: For multiple users or devices, setting up your printer on a network can enhance accessibility. Use AirPrint or other network printing capabilities to allow easy printing from any connected Mac, iPhone, or iPad, streamlining the printing process.