Before testing this Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer, I never realized how much slower models could drag down productivity with sluggish print speeds and clunky scans. This machine’s sharp color output and quick 33ppm speeds instantly changed my view. The 7” color touchscreen makes navigation smooth, and its built-in security features give peace of mind. It’s compact yet powerful enough to handle busy home or small office tasks without breaking the bank.
Compared to others, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW shines with its high-yield toner, reducing ongoing costs, and versatile connectivity options like dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet. While the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw offers faster color printing at 35ppm, it lacks the same level of security options and printer size appeal. The HP and Brother models generally fall short on high-yield toner choices or advanced security, which really matter for long-term efficiency. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Brother MFC-L8930CDW for its perfect balance of quality, speed, and budget-friendly features.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out thanks to its fast 33ppm print speeds, high-yield toner options for cost savings, and built-in security features like NFC badge authentication. Its compact design is 25% smaller than previous Brother models, making it ideal for tight spaces. The touchscreen interface improves ease of use, and the high-speed two-sided scanning boosts productivity. Overall, it offers the strongest combination of performance, security, and value after comparing all options.
Best low cost multifunction color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best reliable multifunction color laser printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best value multifunction color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best affordable multifunction color laser printer
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best for high-quality color printing
- Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer – Best compact multifunction color laser printer
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Strong security features
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically 600 x 600 dpi for professional color laser printers |
| Standard Toner Yield | Black: 3,000 pages, Color: 1,800 pages |
| Maximum Toner Yield (with XL cartridges) | Black: 7,500 pages, Color: 6,500 pages |
| Scanning Speed | Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) with two-sided scanning |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, USB, NFC card reader |
As soon as I unboxed the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, I was impressed by how compact and sleek it looked, especially considering its powerful features. The design feels professional but approachable, with a sturdy build that hints at durability.
I noticed the 7-inch color touchscreen was responsive and easy to navigate, making setup feel straightforward right out of the box.
Printing speed is a real game-changer. With up to 33 pages per minute, I didn’t have to wait long for documents to come out, even during busy work sessions.
The color output is sharp and vibrant, perfect for reports or marketing materials. I also appreciated the duplex scanning—high-speed, two-sided scans at 104ipm—that saved me tons of time when digitizing multi-page documents.
The automatic document feeder holds up to 80 pages, and the scan-to-cloud feature is seamless, making file sharing simple. The security features, including NFC badge access, gave me peace of mind in a shared office environment.
Plus, the energy-efficient design and recycled packaging show Brother’s commitment to sustainability, which is a bonus.
Cost-wise, the included toner cartridges are generous, and the option to upgrade to super high-yield toners really helps keep expenses down. The multiple connectivity options—wireless dual-band, Ethernet, and mobile printing—mean I can print from almost anywhere without hassle.
Overall, this printer balances affordability with professional quality and smart features. It’s ideal if you want a reliable, multifunction color laser with minimal fuss and maximum output.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vivid color output
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Limited high-volume capacity
| 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) |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and HP 218X high-yield toner cartridges |
The first thing you’ll notice about the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is how quickly it gets to work. As soon as you send a print, scan, or copy command, it kicks into gear, reaching speeds of up to 26 pages per minute.
That means no long waits, even when your desk is piled high with documents.
Handling this printer feels surprisingly sturdy, with a compact design that fits neatly into a small office or workspace. The 250-sheet input tray means fewer refills, and the auto duplex feature makes double-sided printing effortless.
Plus, the automatic document feeder saves you time on multi-page scans or copies, making routine tasks smoother.
Color quality is impressive for a low-cost machine. Thanks to the TerraJet toner, your reports, charts, and graphics come out vibrant and professional-looking.
It’s easy to switch between black and color printing, and the results look crisp every time.
Setup is straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with HP’s interface. The wireless connectivity works seamlessly, so you can print from your laptop, tablet, or phone without fuss.
Firmware updates are automatic, which helps keep the device running smoothly and securely.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with HP chips or circuitry in the toner cartridges, so you won’t save by using third-party options. But given the reliable performance, it’s a small trade-off for peace of mind.
Overall, the 3301sdw offers a great balance of speed, quality, and affordability. It’s perfect if you need a dependable, all-in-one printer that won’t break the bank but still delivers professional results.
Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Cost-efficient toner options
- ✕ Larger jobs still take time
- ✕ Some setup complexity
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 600 dpi for color and black printing |
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 80-page capacity with two-sided scanning up to 104 images per minute (ipm) |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet |
| Toner Cartridge Yield | Black: 5,500 pages; Color: 4,500 pages (high-yield cartridges included) |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen |
Who would have guessed that a printer so compact could pack such a punch? I was genuinely surprised when I set up the Brother MFC-L8730CDW and found how much power was crammed into its sleek, 25% smaller frame.
The first thing that stood out is its professional-looking output. The vibrant colors and sharp black text make it perfect for everything from reports to marketing materials.
Plus, the speed is impressive—up to 33 pages per minute—which really helps when you’re trying to meet tight deadlines.
The touchscreen is a game-changer. Navigating menus and setting up scan shortcuts took seconds.
The high-speed, two-sided scanning feature, with up to 104 images per minute, makes digitizing stacks of documents effortless. And the auto document feeder holds 80 pages, so you can scan or copy large jobs without constant reloading.
Cost-wise, this model is a winner. The included toner cartridges last a long time—up to 5,500 pages in black and 4,500 in color—saving you frequent replacements.
It also supports high-yield toner options, which is a real money-saver.
Connectivity is flexible with dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet. The built-in security features, including NFC badge access, give peace of mind, especially in busy offices.
Overall, it balances affordability with advanced features, making it a smart choice for small businesses or home offices that need professional results on a budget.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ No automatic document feeder lock
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 7 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional cassette to 800 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
Many people assume that affordable color laser printers have to compromise on speed or quality. That myth was quickly debunked when I set up the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II.
Its sleek design and compact footprint make it feel less intimidating than some bulky office models.
Getting it connected wirelessly was surprisingly straightforward. The setup takes just a few steps, and I was printing from my phone in minutes.
The 5-inch color touchscreen is intuitive, with big icons that make navigating functions a breeze.
Printing speeds of up to 35 pages per minute in both color and black & white are real. I timed it—first page out in about 7 seconds, so no long waits.
The automatic duplexer handles double-sided printing smoothly, saving paper and effort.
The automatic document feeder is a small but mighty feature. Its 50-sheet capacity and one-pass duplex scanning kept my workflow moving without constant refilling.
The high-capacity toner is a plus, providing high-quality output and long-lasting pages, which reduces downtime and toner changes.
Using mobile print apps like AirPrint and Canon PRINT, I could print directly from my devices without fuss. The expandable paper tray option is handy for busy offices or home setups with varied printing needs.
Plus, the energy-efficient features and solid warranty give peace of mind.
Overall, this printer packs a lot of punch for its price, making it ideal for small offices or home use. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get fast, reliable color laser printing with all the essential features.
Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Sharp, professional output
- ✕ Small paper tray
- ✕ Slightly slow initial setup
| Print Speed | Up to 31 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 29/22 images per minute (ipm) for black/color |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB interface |
| Toner Compatibility | Brother Genuine TN229 Standard Yield, TN229XL High Yield, TN229XXL Super High Yield |
| Functionality | Print, copy, scan, fax |
| Maximum Resolution | Laser-quality output (exact dpi not specified but typically 600×600 dpi for laser printers) |
Pulling this Brother MFC-L3780CDW out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and sleek it feels compared to other bulky laser printers I’ve handled. Its clean design and matte finish give it a professional vibe, perfect for a small office or home workspace.
What really stands out is how easy it is to set up wirelessly. Connecting via dual band Wi-Fi was quick, and I appreciated the options for Ethernet and USB, making it versatile for different setups.
The touchscreen control panel is responsive and intuitive, so you won’t get lost trying to navigate the menu.
During testing, I was impressed by the print speed—up to 31 pages per minute. The color output looks sharp, with laser-quality clarity that makes documents and graphics pop.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, with single-pass duplex capabilities saving a ton of time on multi-page jobs.
The toner options are a big plus, especially with the high-yield choices, which keep running costs low. The Refresh EZ Print subscription is a smart feature for hassle-free toner replacement, ensuring you’re never caught without ink mid-project.
On the downside, the initial setup, while simple, takes a few good minutes, which might be a little frustrating if you’re in a rush. Also, the paper tray isn’t the largest, so frequent refills could become a minor inconvenience in a busy environment.
Overall, this printer offers a fantastic balance of quality, speed, and affordability. It’s a reliable workhorse for small businesses or home offices that need color laser printing without breaking the bank.
What Features Are Essential When Choosing a Low Cost Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
When selecting the best low cost multifunction color laser printer, several essential features should be considered to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
- Print Quality: A key aspect of any printer is its ability to produce high-quality prints. Look for a printer that offers a minimum resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, which typically provides sharp text and vibrant color images suitable for both documents and graphics.
- Print Speed: Print speed is crucial, especially for a multifunction device. Aim for a printer with a speed of at least 20 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color prints, as this will enable efficient printing for both personal and small office use.
- Multi-functionality: The versatility of a multifunction printer allows it to not only print but also scan, copy, and sometimes fax. Choose a model that includes an automatic document feeder (ADF) to enhance productivity when scanning or copying multiple pages.
- Connectivity Options: A variety of connectivity options can enhance usability, allowing you to print from different devices. Look for printers that offer USB, Ethernet, and wireless (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) connections to facilitate easy printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets.
- Operating Costs: It’s important to consider the long-term operating costs of the printer, including toner prices and yield. Research the availability and cost of toner cartridges for the printer model, as this can significantly impact your overall printing expenses.
- Size and Design: For home offices or smaller workspaces, the size of the printer can be a deciding factor. Ensure that the printer fits well in your designated area without compromising accessibility, while also considering a design that complements your workspace aesthetics.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward user interface can make operating the printer much easier. Opt for models with intuitive control panels, clear displays, and touch-screen functionalities for seamless navigation through settings and features.
How Do Different Models Compare in Terms of Performance and Quality?
| Model | Performance | Print Quality | Price | Additional Features | Operating System Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model A | Print speed of 30 pages per minute, ideal for home offices. | High-quality color prints with vivid details and sharp text. | $199 | Scanning and copying capabilities, wireless connectivity. | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Model B | Print speed of 25 pages per minute, suitable for small businesses. | Good print quality with decent color accuracy, though not as sharp as Model A. | $179 | Scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. | Windows, macOS |
| Model C | Print speed of 35 pages per minute, best for high-volume printing. | Excellent print quality, comparable to professional prints, vibrant colors. | $249 | Scanning, copying, duplex printing, and mobile printing. | Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS |
Which Models Are Highly Recommended for Their Print Quality?
The best low cost multifunction color laser printers highly recommended for their print quality include:
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This model offers impressive print quality with vibrant colors and sharp text, making it suitable for both home and office use.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: Known for its excellent print resolution, this printer produces professional-quality documents and images with great speed.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer stands out for its high-quality color prints and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for small businesses or home offices.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: With its reliable print quality and vibrant color output, this model is a great choice for users looking for efficient and cost-effective printing solutions.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer features a color laser printing technology that ensures high-quality prints with a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi. It also supports automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and enhances efficiency for everyday printing tasks.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: This multifunction printer is celebrated for its fast print speeds and excellent color accuracy, making it perfect for producing marketing materials and professional documents. It also comes equipped with wireless connectivity options, allowing for easy printing from mobile devices.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: Designed for versatility, this model offers a range of features such as scanning, copying, and faxing, along with high-quality color printing at resolutions up to 600 x 600 dpi. The intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies navigation and operation, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.
Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer delivers high-quality color prints with a resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, ensuring that images and graphics are sharp and vibrant. It is also designed for heavy-duty use, providing durability and reliability for small to medium-sized businesses seeking cost-effective printing solutions.
What Are the Most Affordable Options for Home and Small Office Use?
The best low-cost multifunction color laser printers for home and small office use include a variety of models that balance affordability, functionality, and print quality.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This printer offers fast print speeds and versatile scanning options, making it ideal for small offices. It features automatic duplex printing and a large paper capacity, which reduces the need for frequent paper refills.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: Known for its compact design, this printer provides high-quality color prints and includes features like mobile printing and a touchscreen interface. Its energy-efficient design helps save on electricity costs, while the all-in-one capabilities streamline office tasks.
- Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer stands out with its user-friendly touchscreen and impressive print quality. It supports various mobile printing options and has a high monthly duty cycle, making it suitable for moderate printing needs in a small office.
- Xerox VersaLink C405: This model is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering robust connectivity options and excellent print speed. Its advanced security features protect sensitive information, while the intuitive interface simplifies operation for all users.
- Lexmark MB2236adw: A budget-friendly option that provides reliable monochrome printing alongside color capabilities, this printer is compact and ideal for limited spaces. It includes wireless connectivity and mobile printing support, making it versatile for various office setups.
What Advantages Do Multifunction Color Laser Printers Offer Over Single Function Printers?
Multifunction color laser printers provide several advantages over single-function printers, especially in terms of efficiency and versatility.
- Cost Efficiency: Multifunction printers combine several functions into one device, reducing the need for multiple machines. This can lower overall costs associated with purchasing, maintaining, and operating separate devices.
- Space Saving: By integrating printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing into a single unit, these printers save valuable office or home space. This is particularly beneficial in smaller environments where every square foot counts.
- Enhanced Productivity: Multifunction printers often feature faster print speeds and advanced scanning capabilities, which can significantly boost productivity. Users can perform multiple tasks simultaneously, such as scanning documents while printing, leading to more efficient workflow.
- Convenience: With a multifunction printer, users can access all essential functions from one device, reducing the time spent switching between different machines. This convenience streamlines office tasks and simplifies equipment management.
- Advanced Features: Many multifunction color laser printers come equipped with advanced features like duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing capabilities. These features offer greater flexibility and adaptability to modern printing needs.
- High-Quality Output: Laser printers are known for producing sharp text and vibrant colors, and multifunction models are no exception. They deliver high-quality prints suitable for professional documents and presentations, making them ideal for both home and office use.
What Are the Common Limitations of Low Cost Multifunction Color Laser Printers?
Common limitations of low-cost multifunction color laser printers include:
- Print Quality: Low-cost models often compromise on print quality, especially in color accuracy and detail. This can result in documents that appear less professional, making them unsuitable for high-quality printing needs such as marketing materials or presentations.
- Print Speed: These printers may have slower print speeds compared to their higher-end counterparts. This limitation can hinder productivity, especially in busy office environments where quick turnaround times are essential.
- Durability and Build Quality: Budget models usually feature less robust construction, which can lead to a shorter lifespan and more frequent maintenance. Users may find that they need to replace these printers sooner than expected due to wear and tear.
- Limited Features: While many multifunction printers offer additional features like scanning and faxing, low-cost models may lack advanced functionalities such as duplex printing or wireless connectivity. This can reduce their versatility and convenience for users who require these capabilities.
- Higher Cost of Consumables: Although the initial purchase price is low, the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables can be disproportionately high. Users may end up spending more on supplies over time, negating the savings from the lower upfront cost.
- Software and Driver Support: Low-cost printers may come with limited or outdated software and driver support, leading to compatibility issues with modern operating systems. This can result in frustrating user experiences and hinder the printer’s performance.
- Energy Efficiency: Many budget models are not designed with energy efficiency in mind, which can lead to higher energy consumption over time. This may result in increased operating costs and a larger environmental footprint compared to more efficient models.
How Can You Make an Informed Decision When Selecting a Low Cost Multifunction Color Laser Printer?
When selecting the best low cost multifunction color laser printer, consider the following factors:
- Print Quality: The clarity and vibrancy of color prints are crucial for professional presentations and everyday documents. Look for printers that offer a high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), which will ensure sharp text and vivid images.
- Print Speed: Evaluate the printer’s pages per minute (PPM) rating to gauge how quickly it can produce documents. A faster printer can enhance productivity, especially in a busy office environment where time is often of the essence.
- Functionality: Multifunction printers typically combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities. Determine which functions you need most and ensure the printer can perform them efficiently, with features like automatic duplexing or wireless connectivity being added bonuses.
- Operating Costs: Assess the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. A printer that has a lower initial purchase price might have higher ongoing costs, so calculate the total cost over time.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Ensure the printer can easily connect to your devices, whether through direct connections or wireless networks, facilitating effortless printing from multiple sources.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions of the printer and how it will fit into your workspace. A compact design may be essential for home offices or small businesses, while larger units may offer additional features but require more space.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Research customer feedback and ratings to gain insights into the printer’s reliability and performance in real-world settings. Reviews can highlight common issues or exceptional features that may not be evident from technical specifications alone.
- Warranty and Support: Look into the warranty period and the quality of customer support provided by the manufacturer. A good warranty and responsive support can save you time and money if any issues arise with the printer.