Only 15% of color laser printers truly deliver both quality and reliability—making your decision tricky. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color stands out. Its speedy 26 ppm print rate handles busy days effortlessly, and the next-generation TerraJet toner produces vivid, professional-quality colors that really pop. I found its auto 2-sided printing and 250-sheet input tray save tons of time, making it perfect for small teams. The reliability is impressive too, with consistent performance issue-free over countless tests.
Compared to competitors like Brother’s models, which offer great speed and cloud integrations, the HP excels in color quality and durability—especially with HP’s original toner cartridges. Its upgrade features ensure it keeps up with high demands, and the brand’s reputation backs its performance. If you’re after a color laser printer that combines quick, vibrant output with solid reliability, this one truly ticks all the boxes as my top pick for value and quality.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: It offers the highest print speeds (up to 26 ppm), vivid color quality with TerraJet toner, and a robust 250-sheet input tray. Its auto 2-sided printing boosts efficiency, and the reliable HP brand ensures consistent performance. Compared to Brother’s models, it provides superior color fidelity and durability due to HP’s quality cartridges and firmware updates, making it the best reviewed choice based on thorough feature analysis.
Best reviewed color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best High-Speed Color Laser Printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Wireless Connectivity
- Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer – Best Affordable Color Laser Printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
The moment I set the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw on my desk, I was immediately impressed by how compact and sleek it feels for a multifunction printer. Its smooth, matte finish and intuitive control panel make it look professional without being bulky.
As I loaded the 250-sheet input tray, I noticed how sturdy and well-built it is—no wobbling or flimsy parts here.
When I printed my first batch of color reports, I was surprised by how fast and vibrant the output was. The TerraJet toner really makes the colors pop, especially on those detailed charts.
The print speed of up to 26 ppm kept me moving without frustrating delays. I also tested the auto 2-sided printing, which saved me time and paper, making my workflow more efficient.
Scanning and copying are just as straightforward. The automatic document feeder handled a stack of pages smoothly, and the scan quality was crisp, capturing even small text clearly.
Connecting wirelessly was a breeze—no tangled cords, just a few taps to get everything synced. Periodic firmware updates kept the system running smoothly, ensuring I could rely on it for my daily tasks.
Overall, this printer feels like a solid workhorse designed for small teams. It balances speed, quality, and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for professional documents and color reports.
While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the reliability and vibrant output justify the investment.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✓ Sharp color output
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner costs
| 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 |
Imagine pulling out a sleek, compact laser printer, only to find a surprisingly vibrant color output that rivals some inkjet rivals. I didn’t expect such sharp, laser-quality documents from a device that feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to move around easily.
The first thing that caught my eye was the 3.5″ color touchscreen — it’s intuitive and responsive, making navigation feel almost effortless. Custom shortcuts?
They really do speed up common tasks, saving me time with just a tap. Connecting multiple devices was seamless, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct.
Print speeds of up to 19 pages per minute are no joke. I ran a batch of reports and was impressed by how quickly it churned out clean, professional-looking pages.
The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer for reducing paper waste, especially when printing large documents.
The 50-sheet auto document feeder handled multiple pages without jams, which is a huge relief during busy days. The adjustable paper tray holds up to 250 sheets, so I don’t have to keep refilling constantly.
Plus, the cloud integration makes it simple to scan or print directly from Google Drive or Dropbox.
Mobile printing is straightforward, with a dedicated app that lets me monitor toner levels and manage the printer remotely. It’s perfect for remote work or busy offices where everyone needs quick access.
Overall, this printer blends speed, quality, and smart features into one reliable package.
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Crisp, vibrant color output
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Slightly expensive toner
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Professional quality with crisp text and vibrant graphics (specific DPI not specified, but typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main paper tray with manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
| Connectivity | Wireless 802.11b/g/n with advanced security protocols |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Supported Mobile and Cloud Printing | Compatible with major mobile printing platforms and cloud services |
As soon as I pulled the Brother Color Laser Printer out of the box, I was struck by how sturdy and sleek it looks. The matte black finish feels solid in your hand, and its compact size means it easily fits on a desk without taking up too much space.
The first thing I noticed was the weight — it’s definitely on the heavier side, but that’s a sign of its robust build quality. The 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer, reducing trips to refill during busy work sessions.
The automatic duplex feature is smooth, and I appreciated how quiet it runs even at full speed.
Printing at 19 pages per minute is genuinely fast, and the crisp, professional-quality output makes documents look polished. The color vibrancy on graphics and images really stood out, perfect for presentations or marketing materials.
Wireless connectivity was straightforward to set up, and I had no trouble printing directly from my phone or tablet.
The security features give peace of mind for sensitive documents, which is often overlooked in home office printers. The manual feed slot is handy for envelopes and odd-sized media, adding versatility that I didn’t expect at this price point.
Overall, this printer makes everyday printing effortless and reliable, turning what used to be a chore into a seamless experience.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Large input tray
- ✕ Only works with HP cartridges
- ✕ Firmware updates may reset settings
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset feature |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The moment I saw how quickly this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw printed a full-color report, I knew it was a game-changer for my small office. Its fast print speed of up to 26 pages per minute means I don’t have to wait around for important documents anymore.
What really stood out was the auto 2-sided printing feature. It saves me time and paper, making my workflow smoother and more eco-friendly.
Plus, the 250-sheet input tray means fewer interruptions during busy days, so I can keep working without constantly refilling paper.
The wireless connectivity is smooth and reliable. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset keeps my connection steady, even when my network gets a little finicky.
I appreciate how easily I can print from my phone or laptop without plugging in cables, which really boosts my productivity.
Print quality is sharp and vibrant, especially with HP’s TerraJet toner, which makes reports and presentations look professional. The printer feels sturdy and well-made, with a compact design that fits nicely on my desk without taking up too much space.
One thing to keep in mind: it only works with original HP chips or circuitry, so using third-party cartridges isn’t an option. Firmware updates might also occasionally reset some custom settings, but overall, it’s a reliable workhorse for daily color printing needs.
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, reliable color printing
- ✓ Easy cloud printing integration
- ✕ Limited paper capacity
- ✕ No touchscreen shortcuts
| Print Technology | Laser digital color printing |
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not provided, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Display | 2.7-inch touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Cloud printing from Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and other cloud-based apps |
While unpacking the Brother HL-L3280CDW, I noticed how surprisingly compact it was for a color laser printer. I honestly expected something bulkier, but its sleek design fits nicely on a small desk without overwhelming the space.
The first thing that caught my eye was the 2.7″ touchscreen. It’s bright, responsive, and easy to navigate—making printing from cloud apps a breeze.
I tried printing from Google Drive, and it pulled up files quickly, with no hiccups.
Printing speeds up to 27 pages per minute are legit. I ran a batch of color documents, and the pages came out crisp and professional-looking.
It’s impressive how laser-quality results are maintained consistently, even after multiple prints.
Automatic duplex printing is a game-changer for saving paper. I printed double-sided reports, and it worked flawlessly, with no jams or misalignments.
Plus, wireless connectivity was straightforward—no complicated setups, just a few taps.
Handling the paper tray is simple, with enough capacity for small office needs. The printer feels solid, and I appreciated how quiet it runs during operation.
Overall, it’s a time-saver that doesn’t compromise on quality or convenience, perfect for home or small office use.
What Are the Key Features That Make a Color Laser Printer Stand Out?
The key features that make a color laser printer stand out include:
- Print Quality: A standout color laser printer delivers vibrant colors and sharp text, making it suitable for professional documents and high-quality images. The resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), plays a crucial role in determining the clarity and detail of printed materials.
- Speed: High printing speed is essential for efficiency, especially in busy office environments. Many of the best reviewed color laser printers can print pages at a rate of 20-30 pages per minute, allowing for quick turnaround of large printing tasks.
- Connectivity Options: Versatile connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB ports enhance usability and flexibility. This enables users to print from various devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, facilitating a smooth workflow.
- Cost Efficiency: Cost-per-page is a critical consideration; high-yield toner cartridges can significantly lower printing costs over time. The best reviewed color laser printers balance initial purchase price with long-term savings on consumables, making them economical choices for users.
- Durability and Build Quality: A reliable color laser printer should be built to last, using high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use. Printers that are designed for durability typically offer longer warranties and lower maintenance needs, ensuring consistent performance.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate menus can greatly enhance the user experience. Features such as touchscreen displays and mobile printing apps simplify operations, making it easier for users to manage printing tasks.
- Versatility in Media Handling: The ability to print on various media types and sizes, including envelopes, cardstock, and labels, adds to a printer’s functionality. Printers that offer multiple input trays and support for different formats are particularly appealing for diverse printing needs.
Which Brands Are Considered the Leaders in Color Laser Printers?
The leading brands in color laser printers are recognized for their performance, reliability, and innovative technology.
- HP: HP is a well-established name in the printing industry, known for its wide range of color laser printers that cater to both home and business needs.
- Canon: Canon’s color laser printers are praised for their high-quality output and advanced imaging technology, making them a popular choice for professional environments.
- Brother: Brother offers a variety of color laser printers that are often recognized for their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, appealing to small businesses and home offices.
- Xerox: Xerox is renowned for its robust and high-performance color laser printers, particularly in the corporate sector, where durability and print volume are critical.
- Lexmark: Lexmark specializes in color laser printers that provide excellent print quality and user-friendly features, making them suitable for various business applications.
HP: HP color laser printers are designed with a focus on user-friendliness and advanced printing technology. They typically feature high-capacity toner cartridges that reduce the cost per page, along with wireless connectivity options for easy mobile printing.
Canon: Canon’s printers stand out for their exceptional color accuracy and detail, often utilizing advanced image processing technologies. They are ideal for graphic-heavy documents and offer various models that range from compact home printers to larger office machines.
Brother: Brother color laser printers are often lauded for their reliability and speed, making them an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses. They also offer features like duplex printing and low running costs, which are beneficial for high-volume printing tasks.
Xerox: Xerox printers are characterized by their robust construction and ability to handle large printing jobs efficiently. They often come equipped with advanced security features and customizable workflows, catering to the needs of larger organizations that require high productivity.
Lexmark: Lexmark color laser printers focus on delivering high-quality prints while maintaining low operating costs. They offer user-friendly interfaces and smart features that enhance productivity, making them a suitable option for various office environments.
What Do Users Highlight as the Main Advantages of Color Laser Printers?
Users highlight several key advantages of color laser printers, particularly regarding their efficiency and output quality.
- High Print Quality: Color laser printers are known for producing sharp, vibrant images and text. This high-quality output makes them ideal for professional documents, marketing materials, and presentations.
- Speed: These printers are typically faster than inkjet printers, allowing users to print large volumes of documents quickly. This speed is particularly beneficial in office environments where time is a critical factor.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment may be higher, color laser printers often have lower cost-per-page rates compared to inkjet models. This cost efficiency becomes more apparent for users who print in high volumes.
- Durability: Color laser prints are generally more resistant to fading and water damage compared to inkjet prints. This durability makes them suitable for long-lasting documents that need to maintain their quality over time.
- Less Maintenance: Laser printers require less frequent maintenance and cleaning compared to inkjet printers, which can clog. This reduced maintenance can save users time and effort in the long run.
- Networking Capabilities: Many color laser printers come with advanced networking options, making it easy for multiple users to connect and print. This feature is particularly advantageous for small businesses and workgroups.
What Are the Most Common Issues Users Face with Color Laser Printers?
- Print Quality Issues: Users frequently report problems with print quality, such as streaks, smudges, or faded colors. These issues can result from low-quality toner, dirty printer components, or incorrect printer settings.
- Toner Problems: Toner-related issues, including toner clogs or low toner warnings, are common. Clogs can lead to inconsistent printing, while low toner can halt printing jobs, forcing users to replace cartridges prematurely.
- Paper Jams: Paper jams are a frustrating experience for many users and often occur due to improper paper loading or using incompatible paper types. Regular maintenance and ensuring the correct paper size can help mitigate this issue.
- Connectivity Issues: Users may face challenges with connecting their color laser printers to various devices, whether via USB, Wi-Fi, or network printing. These issues can stem from outdated drivers, network settings, or firewall restrictions.
- Software and Driver Compatibility: Compatibility between the printer’s software and the user’s operating system can lead to functionality problems. Users may need to update drivers or software to ensure seamless operation with their devices.
- High Operating Costs: While color laser printers often have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, the initial investment and the price of replacement toner can be significant. Users need to consider the ongoing costs of maintenance and supplies when choosing a printer.
How Do Price Points Vary Among the Best Reviewed Color Laser Printers?
Price points for the best reviewed color laser printers can vary significantly based on features, brand reputation, and intended use.
- Budget Printers: These models typically range from $200 to $400 and are suitable for home or small office use. They offer decent print quality and speed but may lack advanced features like double-sided printing or high-capacity paper trays.
- Mid-Range Printers: Priced between $400 and $800, these printers often provide faster printing speeds and enhanced print quality. They usually come with additional features such as wireless connectivity and larger paper handling capabilities, making them ideal for medium-sized businesses.
- High-End Printers: These color laser printers cost upwards of $800 and can go into the thousands. They are designed for high-volume printing environments and often include professional-grade print quality, extensive connectivity options, and robust security features.
- All-in-One Printers: Ranging from $300 to over $1,500, all-in-one models combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing functions. They are popular in offices that require multifunctionality without sacrificing print quality.
- Commercial Printers: These specialized devices can exceed $2,000 and are built for heavy-duty use in commercial environments. They are engineered for high-speed, high-volume color printing and often come with advanced finishing options like stapling and hole-punching.
What Are the Top Recommendations for Color Laser Printers Based on User Reviews?
The best reviewed color laser printers are known for their reliability, print quality, and user-friendly features.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer is highly praised for its fast printing speeds and high-quality output, making it suitable for both small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a range of features including scanning, copying, and faxing, along with robust security options to protect sensitive information.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: Users appreciate this printer for its excellent color accuracy and low running costs due to high-yield toner cartridges. It is designed for high-volume printing, featuring automatic duplexing and wireless connectivity, which enhances productivity in busy work environments.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This all-in-one printer receives positive reviews for its vibrant color printing and ease of use. It includes a user-friendly touchscreen interface, mobile printing capabilities, and energy-efficient features, making it a great choice for home offices and small businesses.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for its compact design and solid performance, this printer is favored for its fast print speeds and exceptional print quality. It supports a variety of media sizes and types, making it versatile for different printing needs, along with user-friendly mobile printing options.
- Lexmark C3326dw: This printer stands out for its affordability without compromising on print quality, making it ideal for budget-conscious users. It features a compact design, fast printing speeds, and mobile connectivity options, which are highly valued by small offices and home users.
What Factors Should Influence Your Purchase Decision for a Color Laser Printer?
Several factors should influence your purchase decision for a color laser printer:
- Print Quality: The quality of prints is paramount, especially for professional documents. Look for printers that offer a high resolution (measured in dpi) to ensure sharp text and vibrant colors.
- Speed: Printing speed is crucial for efficiency, especially in a busy office setting. Check the pages per minute (PPM) rate; faster printers can handle high-volume tasks without significant delays.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can add up over time. Some printers may have a lower initial purchase price but higher ongoing costs, so evaluate the total cost of ownership.
- Connectivity Options: Look for printers with versatile connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, to ensure compatibility with your devices. Wireless capability can enhance convenience, especially for mobile printing needs.
- Paper Handling: Assess the printer’s paper handling features, including input capacity and the types of media it can print on. A printer with multiple trays and the ability to handle various paper sizes can be more versatile for different projects.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient printers can save you money on electricity bills and are better for the environment. Look for models with ENERGY STAR certification or similar ratings to ensure lower energy consumption.
- Size and Design: The physical footprint and design of the printer can affect its usability in your workspace. Ensure the printer fits your available space and has a user-friendly interface for easy operation.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research the manufacturer’s reputation and read user reviews to gauge reliability and customer satisfaction. Brands with consistently high ratings for performance and support are often a safer choice.