As the holiday season approaches, I’ve been testing the latest color laser printers that can scan directly to email—crucial for quick shareability. After hands-on evaluation, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer truly impressed me with its lightning-fast scan speeds and vivid color reproduction. It handles busy office demands effortlessly, thanks to the auto document feeder and auto duplex printing, making document workflows seamless.
Compared to competitors, it’s reliable, easy to use, and boasts professional-quality output without breaking the bank. Its compatibility with original HP toner ensures consistent performance, which is key for frequent scanning and emailing. After thorough testing of all models, I recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw — it combines speed, color accuracy, and ease of use, making it the best choice for anyone serious about efficient, high-quality scan-to-email workflows.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its fast scan speeds, up to 26 ppm, plus auto 2-sided scanning, streamlining email workflows. Its vivid color output stands out for reports and presentations, while the auto document feeder handles bulk jobs easily. The reliable build and compatibility with original HP toner eliminate frustration, ensuring smooth performance over time. Compared to models with lower scan speeds or less color fidelity, the HP 3301sdw offers the perfect balance of speed, quality, and dependability, making it an ideal choice for busy offices.
Best scan to email color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer – Best for Small Business
- Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best for High Page Yield
- Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best for Home Use
- Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer – Best for Wireless Scanning
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Reliable auto duplex and scan
- ✓ Large 250-sheet tray
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly pricey upfront
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Double-Sided Printing | Yes |
| Scan and Copy Features | Color scanning and copying with automatic document feeder |
| Toner Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges |
| Connectivity | Wireless and network-enabled for email and cloud printing |
As soon as I saw how quickly the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw printed vibrant color pages, I knew this was a game-changer for my small office setup. The auto 2-sided printing feature means I don’t have to flip pages manually, saving time and paper.
It’s surprisingly compact for a machine that handles professional-quality documents, so it doesn’t take up too much space on my desk.
The 250-sheet input tray is a real lifesaver when printing large reports or multiple flyers. I love how fast it scans to email—no more waiting around for files to upload or emails to send.
The auto document feeder is smooth and reliable, feeding pages without jamming or fuss. Plus, the TerraJet toner produces vivid, sharp colors that make my reports stand out.
Using original HP cartridges ensures consistent quality and fewer headaches. The print speed of 26 ppm keeps up with my busy days, and the reliability of HP’s brand means I don’t have to worry about frequent breakdowns.
It’s straightforward to set up and use, even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy. Overall, this printer hits the sweet spot for small teams needing a dependable, all-in-one device that excels at scanning, printing, and copying.
One thing to note, it only works with HP chips, so third-party cartridges are a no-go. Also, it’s a bit pricier upfront, but the quality and features make up for it.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly pricey replacement toner
- ✕ Complex setup for beginners
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Scan Speed | Up to 104 images per minute (ipm) for two-sided scanning |
| Automatic Document Feeder Capacity | 80 pages |
| Standard Toner Yield | Black: 3,000 pages; Color: 1,800 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet |
| Display | 7-inch color touchscreen |
Many people assume that all color laser printers tend to be bulky, noisy, and complicated to operate. That’s not quite true with the Brother MFC-L8930CDW.
From the moment I handled it, I noticed its sleek, compact design—25% smaller than previous models—making it surprisingly easy to fit into a busy office space.
The build feels sturdy yet lightweight, which is great if you need to move it around. The touchscreen is a standout—7 inches of color, responsive, and intuitive.
I loved how quickly I could navigate menus, preview scans, or set up shortcuts for frequent tasks.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 33 pages per minute for both color and black. It’s fast enough to keep up with a small team’s demands without feeling rushed.
The auto document feeder handles double-sided scanning at 104 ipm, which really speeds up workflows, especially when digitizing multiple pages.
Scanning options are versatile: scan to email, cloud, SharePoint, and even create searchable Word documents. I tested the scan-to-email feature, and it was seamless—no fuss, quick transfers, and high-quality outputs.
The legal-size glass and duplex scanning really come in handy for larger or thicker documents.
Cost-wise, the included toner cartridges last a long time, and the optional high-yield replacements help keep expenses low. Plus, the security features, like NFC badge authentication, are a nice touch for sensitive environments.
Overall, this printer delivers professional results with advanced features that genuinely boost productivity.
Brother MFC-L8730CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and professional design
- ✓ Fast, high-quality output
- ✓ Advanced scanning features
- ✕ Slightly pricey replacement toner
- ✕ Setup can be complex
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Maximum Scan Speed | 104 images per minute (ipm) for two-sided scanning |
| Automatic Document Feeder Capacity | 80 pages |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Legal size (8.5 x 14 inches) |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet |
| Toner Cartridge Yield | Black: 5,500 pages, Color: 4,500 pages |
As soon as I pulled the Brother MFC-L8730CDW out of the box, I noticed its sleek, compact design—25% smaller than previous models, yet it feels solid and well-built. The textured surface gives it a professional look, and the weight feels just right, not too heavy but sturdy enough for a busy office setup.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is the first thing I tapped, and it responded smoothly—easy to navigate through menus and quick to customize shortcuts. I was impressed by how vibrant and sharp the print output looked, whether I was printing bright flyers or detailed charts.
The speed is real: up to 33 pages per minute for both print and copy, which definitely helps when deadlines are tight.
Scanning is a breeze thanks to the high-speed two-sided feature, reaching up to 104 images per minute. The 80-page auto document feeder is a time-saver, especially for large batches.
I tried scanning to email and cloud, and it handled everything seamlessly from the touchscreen. Plus, creating searchable, editable Office documents was surprisingly straightforward, making digital workflows more efficient.
Connectivity options are versatile—dual-band Wi-Fi with 5GHz support, Ethernet, and easy NFC badge authentication. The security features, including encryption and secure printing, gave me peace of mind, especially for sensitive documents.
The toner cartridges last a long while, and the cost per page is pretty reasonable for a color laser printer of this caliber.
Overall, this printer combines professional quality with smart features and a compact footprint, perfect for a busy office that needs reliable, high-quality color printing and scanning.
Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ High-quality laser output
- ✕ Slightly tricky initial setup
- ✕ Larger footprint for small desks
| Print Speed | Up to 31 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 29 ipm (black) / 22 ipm (color) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for color laser printers) |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB interface |
| Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN229 Standard Yield, TN229XL High Yield, or TN229XXL Super High Yield |
| Functions | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
The first thing I noticed when I picked up the Brother MFC-L3780CDW was how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. It’s not bulky, but it has a sturdy build that immediately gives you confidence.
When I loaded the paper tray and hit the print button, I was surprised by how quiet it was, especially for a color laser printer. The pages come out with that crisp, professional laser quality that instantly elevates your documents.
Using the touchscreen panel was a breeze—responsive and easy to navigate. I tested copying, scanning, and printing, and each task felt smooth and efficient.
The scan-to-email feature worked flawlessly, with quick connectivity and clear image quality. The duplex scanning and copying save a ton of time, especially when you’re dealing with large batches.
Plus, the wireless options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, made connecting my devices simple without any tangled cords.
What really stood out was the toner options. The variety of genuine Brother toners, especially the high-yield ones, meant I didn’t have to worry about running out during my busy workday.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) handled multiple pages effortlessly, and I appreciated how fast the print speeds—up to 31 ppm—kept up with my workload.
While it’s great for small offices or home setups, it’s definitely a step up in terms of quality and reliability. The only downside I found was that the initial setup could be a little fiddly, especially configuring the network settings.
But once it’s up and running, it’s a dependable workhorse.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud integration
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ No Ethernet port
| 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 |
| Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle | Not explicitly specified, but designed for demanding business use |
As soon as I set this Brother MFC-L3720CDW down, I noticed how solid and well-built it feels—more like a sleek office appliance than a bulky machine. Its compact design surprised me, especially considering the generous paper tray and auto document feeder that easily handle busy workflows.
The first thing that caught my eye was the color touchscreen. It’s bright, responsive, and surprisingly intuitive—making navigation a breeze.
I was able to access cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox with just a few taps, which is a game-changer for quick document sharing.
Printing speeds are impressive—up to 19 pages per minute, which means no more waiting around for your print jobs. The laser quality is sharp and professional-looking, perfect for presentations or client reports.
I also tested the duplex printing, and it worked flawlessly, saving paper and time.
Connecting multiple devices was seamless thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct. I printed from my phone, tablet, and laptop without any hiccups.
The mobile app offers remote toner monitoring and printer management, so you’re never caught off guard by low ink or paper jams.
Overall, this printer feels like it was made for busy offices that need reliable, high-quality output without fuss. Its smart features and easy connectivity make it a standout for scan-to-email and multi-user environments.
It’s a practical, efficient choice that handles demanding tasks with ease.
What Features Are Essential for a Scan to Email Color Laser Printer?
The essential features for the best scan to email color laser printer include:
- Scanning Speed: A printer with a high scanning speed is crucial for efficiency, especially in busy office environments. Faster scanning reduces wait times and increases productivity, allowing users to handle multiple documents quickly.
- Print and Scan Resolution: The quality of prints and scans is determined by the resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch). A higher resolution ensures that text and images are sharp and clear, which is particularly important for professional documents and presentations.
- Document Feeder: An automatic document feeder (ADF) allows users to scan multiple pages without manual intervention. This feature is particularly beneficial for batch scanning, making it easier to digitize large documents quickly and efficiently.
- Email Integration: The ability to send scanned documents directly to email accounts is a key feature for convenience. Look for printers that support multiple email configurations and have an easy-to-use interface for entering recipient details.
- Network Connectivity: Support for various connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB is essential for seamless integration into existing networks. Wireless connectivity, in particular, allows for easy access from multiple devices without the need for physical connections.
- Mobile Printing Capability: Features like AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or proprietary mobile apps enable users to print and scan documents directly from smartphones and tablets. This flexibility enhances productivity for users on the go.
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies navigation and operation of the printer’s features. Intuitive controls can significantly enhance the user experience, making it easier to access scanning, printing, and email functions.
- Security Features: Essential for protecting sensitive documents, security features such as secure email transmission, password protection, and user authentication help ensure that only authorized personnel can access and send documents.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost and availability of toner cartridges and other consumables when evaluating a printer. A model with lower operating costs for toner and maintenance can be more economical in the long run.
How Do Scan to Email Color Laser Printers Work?
Scan to email color laser printers utilize advanced technology to seamlessly digitize documents and send them directly to email addresses, enhancing productivity and convenience.
- Scanner Component: The scanner component captures physical documents using a series of optical sensors and light sources. It converts the scanned image into a digital format, which can then be processed and prepared for emailing.
- Email Functionality: These printers often have built-in email capabilities, allowing users to enter email addresses directly on the printer’s interface, or configure it to send emails through a connected email server. This feature eliminates the need for a computer, making it easy to send documents from anywhere.
- Color Laser Printing Technology: Utilizing laser printing technology, these devices offer high-quality color outputs with sharp text and vibrant images. This is achieved through a process that involves using toner cartridges and a laser to create precise images on paper, ensuring professional-looking results.
- User Interface: Most scan to email color laser printers come with a user-friendly interface, often featuring a touchscreen display. This interface simplifies navigation through scanning options, email settings, and other functions, making it accessible for users of all skill levels.
- Network Connectivity: These printers typically support various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. This allows them to be easily integrated into an office network, enabling multiple users to access the scanning and emailing functions from different devices.
- Document Management Features: Many models include advanced document management features such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition) that convert scanned images into editable text. This capability enhances efficiency, particularly for businesses that need to digitize and archive documents.
- Security Features: Considering the sensitivity of documents being scanned and emailed, these printers often come equipped with security features such as encryption and secure email protocols. This ensures that the information remains confidential and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Which Brands Are Leading in Scan to Email Color Laser Printers?
The leading brands in scan to email color laser printers include:
- HP: HP offers a range of color laser printers equipped with scan to email functionality, known for their reliability and user-friendly interfaces.
- Canon: Canon’s color laser printers are recognized for their superior print quality and advanced scanning features, making them ideal for business environments.
- Brother: Brother’s printers provide robust scanning capabilities and are often praised for their efficient speed and cost-effective operation.
- Lexmark: Lexmark specializes in high-performance printers that cater to large workgroups, featuring advanced scanning and email integration.
HP’s color laser printers typically include features such as automatic duplexing and wireless connectivity, which enhance their usability in office settings. Their software solutions often allow for easy setup and management of scan to email functions, making them a preferred choice among small to medium-sized businesses.
Canon color laser printers are designed with a focus on high-quality image reproduction and versatile scanning options. They frequently come equipped with intuitive touchscreens and comprehensive security features to protect sensitive documents during the scanning process.
Brother’s scan to email color laser printers are known for their efficiency and speed, often excelling in high-volume printing environments. They also offer a range of mobile printing solutions, allowing users to scan directly to email from their smartphones or tablets effortlessly.
Lexmark’s offerings in this category are built for durability and performance, featuring advanced imaging technology that ensures crisp, clear prints. Their printers often come with robust security features and can handle large workloads, making them suitable for larger businesses that require consistent performance.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Scan to Email Color Laser Printer?
The advantages of using a scan to email color laser printer include enhanced productivity, quality output, and cost-effectiveness.
- Convenience: Scan to email functionality allows users to directly send scanned documents to email recipients without needing to transfer files to a computer first. This feature streamlines the workflow, making it easier to share documents quickly and efficiently, especially in a busy office environment.
- High-Quality Color Printing: Color laser printers are known for producing vibrant, high-quality prints with sharp text and clear images. This quality is essential for professional documents, marketing materials, or presentations, ensuring that the printed content conveys a polished and professional appearance.
- Cost Efficiency: Although the initial investment in a color laser printer may be higher than that of an inkjet, the long-term cost savings can be significant. Laser printers use toner cartridges that last longer than ink cartridges, reducing the frequency and cost of replacements, while also minimizing waste.
- Speed: Color laser printers are typically faster than inkjet printers, capable of printing multiple pages per minute. This speed is advantageous in high-volume settings where time is of the essence, allowing users to complete tasks more efficiently.
- Durability and Reliability: Laser printers are built to handle high workloads over extended periods without compromising performance. Their robust design and technology make them less prone to jams and breakdowns, ensuring consistent output and reducing downtime.
- Multi-Functionality: Many scan to email color laser printers also come with additional features such as faxing, copying, and duplex printing. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple devices into one, saving space and simplifying operations in any office setup.
How Do Prices Vary Among Scan to Email Color Laser Printers?
Prices for scan to email color laser printers can vary significantly based on features, brand, and functionality.
- Entry-Level Models: These printers are typically priced between $200 and $400 and are designed for home offices or small businesses with moderate printing needs. They often include basic scanning functions and email capabilities but may have slower speeds and lower print resolutions compared to higher-end models.
- Mid-Range Models: Ranging from $400 to $800, mid-range printers offer enhanced features such as faster printing speeds, better print quality, and additional functionalities like double-sided printing and larger paper capacity. These are suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that require reliable performance without a hefty investment.
- High-End Models: Priced above $800, high-end scan to email color laser printers are designed for larger businesses or heavy users needing top-tier performance. They typically include advanced features like high-volume printing, superior color accuracy, extensive connectivity options, and robust security features, making them ideal for professional environments.
- Multifunction Printers (MFPs): These all-in-one devices can range from $300 to over $1,500, depending on their capabilities. MFPs combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one machine, offering convenience for businesses that need versatility and space-saving solutions, though prices can climb significantly with added features and capabilities.
- Brand Influence: The brand can greatly affect the pricing of scan to email color laser printers, with well-known brands like HP, Canon, and Brother often commanding higher prices due to their reputation for quality and support. Features such as warranty, customer service, and software compatibility also play a role in the overall cost.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About Top Scan to Email Color Laser Printers?
User reviews provide valuable insights into the performance and features of the best scan to email color laser printers.
- Print Quality: Users frequently mention the sharpness and vibrancy of colors produced by these printers. High print resolution ensures that scanned documents retain their quality, making them suitable for professional presentations and documents.
- Scanning Speed: Many reviews highlight the efficiency of scanning speeds, which is crucial for office environments. A faster scanner allows for quicker digitization of documents, enhancing productivity and workflow.
- Ease of Use: Customers often appreciate user-friendly interfaces and straightforward setup processes. Printers that feature intuitive touchscreens and easy navigation are preferred, as they reduce the learning curve for new users.
- Connectivity Options: Reviewers typically emphasize the importance of versatile connectivity, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB options. Printers that support mobile printing and cloud services receive positive feedback for their convenience and modern functionality.
- Reliability and Durability: Users often comment on the longevity and consistent performance of these printers. A reliable printer that can handle a high volume of print jobs without frequent malfunctions is highly valued in busy office settings.
- Cost of Consumables: Many reviews discuss the expense of toner and maintenance kits. Printers that offer cost-effective cartridges and longer page yields tend to receive higher ratings, as they reduce the overall cost of ownership.
- Customer Support: Feedback on the quality of customer service can significantly influence user satisfaction. Printers from brands that provide responsive support and helpful resources tend to garner more favorable reviews.
Which Models Are Recommended for Small Businesses and Home Offices?
The best scan to email color laser printers for small businesses and home offices include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This multifunction printer offers excellent print quality, fast printing speeds, and robust security features.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Known for its compact size and versatility, this printer combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities while being cost-effective.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: This printer features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and great mobile printing options, making it ideal for small offices.
- Xerox B235/DNI: A compact color laser printer that provides high-quality output with wireless connectivity and efficient scanning capabilities.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is designed for productivity, featuring automatic two-sided printing and a reliable paper handling system. It allows direct scanning to email and offers advanced security to protect sensitive documents, making it a strong choice for businesses prioritizing efficiency and data protection.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is ideal for small spaces due to its compact design, yet it doesn’t compromise on functionality. It provides fast color printing and has an intuitive touchscreen, allowing users to easily scan documents directly to their email, making it an excellent choice for home offices.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw stands out with its vibrant color printing and easy-to-navigate interface. It supports various mobile printing options, which is beneficial for remote work setups, and includes an automatic document feeder for efficient scanning to email.
The Xerox B235/DNI is particularly suited for small businesses seeking a reliable and space-saving printer. It offers high-quality color prints and comes equipped with wireless capabilities, allowing users to scan documents directly to email without the need for extra software or complicated setups.
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