If you’re searching for a color laser printer, you’re likely balancing print quality, speed, and cost. The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw stands out as the best overall, offering professional-grade performance and reliability. The Xerox C235dni is a strong choice for small offices needing versatile all-in-one features, while the Brother MFC-L3720CDW excels for those looking for an all-in-one with high capacity and duplexing. However, these printers often come with tradeoffs like higher upfront costs or larger footprints. Continue reading to explore these options in detail and find the best fit for your needs.
Get travel and outdoor gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Top-tier printers like the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw deliver professional speed and quality but at a higher price point.
- All-in-one models such as the Xerox C235dni offer versatile features ideal for small offices but may compromise on print speed.
- Budget-friendly options like the Brother HL-L3220CDW provide good value, especially for light to moderate use.
- Print speed and capacity often come with increased size and cost, influencing the ideal choice for different environments.
- Wireless and mobile connectivity are now standard, but some models still lack advanced security features, which matter for business users.
| HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw Wireless Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Work Teams | Printer Type: Laser | Color: Color | Print Speed: Up to 35 pages per minute | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Cost-Effective Small Offices | Print Speed: 24 ppm | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, USB | Monthly Duty Cycle: up to 1,500 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity |  | Best for Business Users Needing Versatility | Print Speed: 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer, Duplex, 26 PPM, Print Only, White |  | Best for Fast, High-Quality Print-Only Needs | Printer Type: Laser, Print Only | Color: Color | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Office Professionals | Printer Type: Laser | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | Color: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Duplex, Mobile Printing, Ethernet, Includes 2-Month Trial |  | Best for Small Home Offices with Easy Cloud Integration | Print Speed: 27 pages per minute | Duplex Printing: Automatic | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Versatile Color Multifunction | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | First Print Time: Approximately 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile device printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing All-in-One Color Printing | Print Speed: Up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Duplex: Auto | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for Offices Requiring Fax and Versatility | Color: Color | Connectivity: Wireless | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing, Duplex, 250-Sheet Tray |  | Best for High-Volume Small Business Printing | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| color laser printer | Print Speed | Connectivity | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4 | Up to 35 pages per minute | — | Color |
| Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L | 24 ppm | Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, USB | Color |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | 19 ppm | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C | 26 pages per minute | Wireless, Mobile Device Printing | Color |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | 26 pages per minute | — | Yes |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | 27 pages per minute | Wireless, Ethernet | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | 26 pages per minute | Wireless, mobile device printing | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | Up to 26 ppm | — | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cd | — | Wireless | Color |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | 19 PPM | Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw Wireless Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw stands out for its impressive print speed of up to 35 pages per minute, making it ideal for small teams that need quick, professional-quality color output. Its reliable wireless connection and automatic reconnection feature help maintain workflow without interruptions, while the integrated HP Wolf Pro Security adds a layer of protection for sensitive data. Compared to the Canon LBP646Cdw, this model offers faster speeds but weighs significantly more at 36 pounds, which could complicate repositioning. Its reliance on original HP cartridges with HP chips is a potential ongoing cost and compatibility concern. This printer makes the most sense for small offices seeking high speed and security, but those needing a lightweight or more versatile multifunction device might find it limiting.Pros:- Fast color printing speed of up to 35 pages per minute
- Reliable Wi-Fi with automatic reconnection
- Enhanced security features with HP Wolf Pro Security
Cons:- Heavy at 36 pounds, difficult to move
- Requires original HP cartridges with HP chips
Best for: Small work teams prioritizing speed, security, and high-quality color printing
Not ideal for: Offices that need a lightweight, portable printer or multifunction capabilities like scanning and copying
- Printer Type:Laser
- Color:Color
- Print Speed:Up to 35 pages per minute
- Wireless Connectivity:Yes
- Security Features:HP Wolf Pro Security
- Item Weight:36 pounds
Our verdict“This printer is well-suited for small teams that value speed and security over mobility or multifunction features.”
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Xerox C235dni offers a versatile all-in-one solution with a print speed of 24 ppm, making it a solid choice for small office workflows. Its ease of setup and mobile printing options, including Apple AirPrint and Mopria, simplify daily use, especially compared to the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, which has a slower speed but includes fax and a larger touchscreen. The included starter toner yield of 500 pages may be limiting for larger workloads, and its monthly duty cycle of 1,500 pages suggests it’s best for light to moderate use. The absence of duplex printing is a notable drawback for cost-conscious buyers aiming to save paper. This model fits those prioritizing affordability and straightforward functionality but isn’t ideal for higher-volume environments.Pros:- Wireless and mobile printing capabilities
- Easy setup with the Xerox Easy Assist App
- Supports high-yield cartridges to lower ongoing costs
Cons:- Limited monthly print volume of 1,500 pages
- Starter toner has low yield
- No duplex printing
Best for: Small offices needing a straightforward, affordable all-in-one printer with mobile support
Not ideal for: High-volume environments needing extensive monthly duty cycles or duplex printing
- Print Speed:24 ppm
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, USB
- Monthly Duty Cycle:up to 1,500 pages
- Starter Toner Yield:500 pages
- Type:All-in-One
- Color:Color
Our verdict“This printer is a good fit for small offices that want basic all-in-one functionality with mobile printing at a low cost.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers an all-in-one package with fast print speeds up to 19 ppm, a 50-sheet automatic document feeder, and a 3.5-inch touchscreen for easy navigation. Its multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB, provide flexible setup options for busy offices. Compared to the Canon LBP646Cdw, which is print-only but faster at 26 ppm, this model’s versatility in scanning, copying, and faxing makes it better suited for offices with diverse document needs. However, its larger footprint and potentially higher toner replacement costs could be drawbacks for small offices with limited space or tight budgets. This pick makes the most sense for teams that need a multifunction device that can handle varied tasks efficiently.Pros:- Fast print speeds and high-quality output
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and USB
- Auto duplex printing for efficiency
Cons:- Large physical footprint requiring ample space
- Toner replacement costs may add up
Best for: Business environments requiring versatile multifunction printing and scanning capabilities
Not ideal for: Small spaces or users looking solely for a compact, dedicated printer
- Print Speed:19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color
- Type:Laser
Our verdict“This printer fits small to medium offices needing a multifunction device with reliable speed and connectivity.”
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer, Duplex, 26 PPM, Print Only, White
The Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw is a streamlined, print-only laser printer that excels in high-speed color output, reaching 26 pages per minute with a 5-inch LCD for easy setup. Its duplex printing feature helps save paper, and the high-capacity toner reduces the frequency of replacements, making it suitable for high-volume environments. Compared to the HP 4701dw, which offers faster speeds and security features, this model’s focus on high-quality printing in a compact form makes it ideal for users who don’t need scanning or copying. Its limitation to print-only functions and a maximum media size of 8.5 x 14 inches restricts versatility, but for dedicated printing tasks, it provides reliable performance.Pros:- Fast print speeds with high-quality color output
- Easy wireless setup and mobile support
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- No scanning or copying functions
- Limited to print-only tasks
Best for: Offices needing fast, high-quality color printing without scanning or copying
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring multifunction capabilities or larger media sizes
- Printer Type:Laser, Print Only
- Color:Color
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- First Print Time:approximately 10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Display:5-inch LCD
Our verdict“This printer suits users focused solely on quick, high-quality color printing in a compact format.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw offers a strong combination of speed and convenience, printing up to 26 pages per minute with automatic duplexing. Its built-in Wi-Fi and support for mobile devices make it straightforward for small offices to integrate into existing workflows. Compared with the Xerox C235dni, which has a lower duty cycle, the 3201dw’s higher capacity input tray and faster speeds better serve everyday office tasks. However, at 33 pounds, it isn’t the lightest option, and its single input tray limits media flexibility for larger print jobs. This printer makes sense for small offices that prioritize speed, wireless connectivity, and ease of use in a compact design.Pros:- Fast print speeds suitable for office use
- Wireless connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi
- Automatic duplex printing to save paper
Cons:- Relatively heavy at 33 pounds
- Limited to one input tray
Best for: Small office users needing fast, reliable wireless color printing with duplexing
Not ideal for: Offices with very high monthly volume or those requiring multiple media trays
- Printer Type:Laser
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- Color:Yes
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Auto
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small offices that need quick, wireless color printing with minimal fuss.”
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Duplex, Mobile Printing, Ethernet, Includes 2-Month Trial
This compact model stands out for its quick print speeds of 27 ppm, making it suitable for small offices that need efficient output. Unlike larger, more feature-rich options like the Canon MF662Cdw, it emphasizes speed and simplicity over extensive paper capacity or multifunctionality. The 2.7-inch touchscreen enables straightforward cloud printing, which is perfect for users who frequently print from cloud apps like Google Drive. However, its limited paper capacity and lack of high-capacity toner options mean it’s less ideal for high-volume tasks. Its reliance on internet connections and absence of a large toner capacity make it best suited for occasional or light use in tight spaces.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 27 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Easy cloud printing via touchscreen interface
Cons:- Limited to light-duty use, not suitable for high volume
- Requires internet connection for cloud features
Best for: Small home offices that prioritize quick, straightforward color printing with cloud capabilities
Not ideal for: Offices with high-volume needs or users requiring extensive paper capacity or multifunction options
- Print Speed:27 pages per minute
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch
- Includes:2-month refresh trial
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small, space-constrained home offices needing quick, wireless color printing with minimal fuss.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner
Compared with the Brother HL-L3280CDW, the Canon MF662Cdw offers a more versatile array of functions, including copying and scanning, along with a 5-inch touchscreen for intuitive operation. Its fast print speeds of 26 ppm and high-capacity toner support larger workloads, making it better suited for small offices that need more than just printing. However, its larger footprint may be cumbersome for tight spaces, and initial setup can be somewhat technical. Higher initial cost and toner expenses make it less appealing for occasional use or budget-conscious buyers, but for those seeking all-in-one functionality in a color laser printer, it delivers reliable performance.
Pros:- High-speed printing at 26 ppm
- User-friendly 5-inch touchscreen
- High-capacity toner reduces replacements
Cons:- Larger footprint may not fit small spaces
- Higher upfront cost and toner expenses
Best for: Small office teams requiring a multifunction device with high-quality color output
Not ideal for: Users with space constraints or those seeking a budget-friendly, single-function printer
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- First Print Time:Approximately 10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile device printing
- Display:5-inch color touchscreen
- Paper Capacity:250-sheet standard cassette
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This model makes the most sense for offices that need a reliable, all-in-one color laser printer with high capacity and speed.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This HP model excels at providing a balanced set of functions, including printing, scanning, copying, and duplexing, with a 250-sheet tray and auto document feeder. Unlike the Canon MF662Cdw, it emphasizes a streamlined all-in-one experience and reliable performance, especially for small teams. Its fast output of up to 26 ppm and comprehensive features make it appealing for busy work environments. However, it relies on original HP toner cartridges with proprietary chips, which can increase running costs and limit third-party options. Its simplicity and multifunctionality make it ideal for small offices that need consistent, professional-quality color documents without extra complexity.
Pros:- Fast color printing up to 26 ppm
- All-in-one functions: print, scan, copy
- Auto duplex and document feeder for efficiency
Cons:- Dependence on HP proprietary toner chips
- Potential higher cost for consumables
Best for: Small office teams seeking a reliable, all-in-one color laser printer with fast performance
Not ideal for: Large volume printers or budget-conscious users wary of high toner costs and proprietary cartridges
- Print Speed:Up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Duplex:Auto
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
Our verdict“This all-in-one device is well-suited for small teams that prioritize speed, reliability, and multifunctionality in color laser printing.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer
Compared with the HP LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, the Canon MF753Cdw II adds faxing capabilities, making it suitable for offices with legacy requirements. Its wireless connectivity and duplex printing support high productivity, while its all-in-one functions help save space. Although specific details about print speed and capacity are less emphasized, its comprehensive feature set makes it a good choice for offices needing multi-functionality beyond printing. The higher cost for this color laser model reflects its added features, but it might be overkill for small teams with basic needs or those focused solely on printing speed.
Pros:- Wireless connectivity for multiple devices
- All-in-one functions including faxing
- Duplex printing for efficiency
Cons:- Lack of detailed specs on speed and capacity
- Potentially higher purchase cost due to added features
Best for: Offices that require faxing, scanning, and copying alongside color printing in a compact form
Not ideal for: Small home offices with limited space or users not needing fax functionality
- Color:Color
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Duplex:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for offices that need versatile, multifunction color laser printing with fax capabilities in a single device.”
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing, Duplex, 250-Sheet Tray
This Brother model offers a solid balance of speed and capacity, with a modest 19 ppm and a large 250-sheet tray, making it a strong choice for small businesses with steady color printing needs. Compared to the Canon MF662Cdw, it emphasizes high-volume capacity, reducing refill interruptions. Its wireless and mobile compatibility add convenience, but the slower speed and limited media handling (manual feed for envelopes) mean it’s less suitable for very high-speed or specialized media tasks. The lack of mention of per-page costs for color makes it less transparent for budget-conscious buyers, but it remains a good choice for consistent, medium-volume output.
Pros:- Large 250-sheet paper tray
- Wireless and mobile device compatibility
- Reliable color output with crisp quality
Cons:- Lower print speed at 19 ppm
- Limited media handling options for specialty media
Best for: Small businesses with consistent color printing requirements and high paper capacity needs
Not ideal for: Heavy-volume or fast-paced environments where higher ppm rates are necessary
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Media Handling:Manual feed for envelopes and specialty media
Our verdict“This printer works best for small business settings where high capacity and steady performance outweigh raw speed.”
How We Picked
To determine the best color laser printers, I focused on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. I evaluated each model’s print speed, color accuracy, and capacity, ensuring they meet the needs of both small offices and larger workgroups. Maintenance costs, user interface, and connectivity options were also considered, as these impact daily use and long-term satisfaction. The ranking reflects a balance between price and features, with top picks excelling in overall performance while others serve niche needs or budget constraints.| color laser printer | Color | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4 | Color | — |
| Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L | Color | Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, USB |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | — | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C | Color | Wireless, Mobile Device Printing |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | Yes | — |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | — | Wireless, Ethernet |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | — | Wireless, mobile device printing |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | — | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cd | Color | Wireless |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | — | Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Color Laser Printer
Choosing the right color laser printer involves understanding several key factors beyond just print quality. It’s important to consider your typical workload, available space, and whether you need additional functions like scanning or faxing. Budgeting wisely means balancing upfront costs against ongoing expenses like toner and maintenance. Features such as duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and security options can significantly influence your operational efficiency and data safety. Carefully weighing these factors ensures you select a model that fits both your current needs and future growth.Print Speed and Volume
Consider how many pages you print daily or monthly. Higher speeds and larger duty cycles are essential for busy offices, reducing wait times and preventing printer overload. Models designed for light use might sacrifice speed for cost savings, but if your workload increases, you’ll want a printer that can keep up without frequent breakdowns or jams.
Cost of Consumables
While initial prices vary, toner and maintenance costs can significantly impact your total investment over time. Some printers have high-capacity toner cartridges that reduce replacement frequency, whereas others have lower upfront costs but more expensive consumables. Assess your print volume to determine the most economical choice for your situation.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wireless connectivity is now standard, but ensure the printer supports your preferred devices and networks. Features like mobile printing, Ethernet, and cloud integration can streamline workflows, especially in shared environments. Also, verify compatibility with your operating systems to avoid setup headaches.
Size and Space Requirements
Color laser printers can occupy substantial space, especially multifunction models with larger paper trays. Measure your available area and choose a model that fits comfortably. Compact designs are appealing for home offices, while larger units suit dedicated workspaces with higher capacity needs.
Security and Management Features
For business use, security features like user authentication and encrypted printing are critical to protect sensitive information. Additionally, management tools for monitoring toner levels and usage can simplify maintenance. These extras often come with higher-end models but are worth considering for professional environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a color laser printer worth it for home use?
For most home users, a color laser printer offers faster printing and better durability compared to inkjet models, especially if you print frequently or in high volumes. However, the initial cost and ongoing toner expenses are higher, so if your printing needs are sporadic or mainly for occasional documents, a color inkjet might be more cost-effective. For regular, high-quality color printing, a laser provides superior speed and longevity.
Do color laser printers support wireless printing from smartphones?
Yes, most modern color laser printers include wireless capabilities that allow printing directly from smartphones and tablets. Features like AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or manufacturer-specific apps facilitate easy, cable-free printing. Always verify these features if wireless mobile printing is a priority for your setup.
How often do toner cartridges need replacing in a color laser printer?
The frequency of toner replacement depends on your print volume and cartridge capacity. High-yield cartridges can last for thousands of pages, making them ideal for busy offices, while standard cartridges may need replacing after a few hundred pages. Regular users should consider models with high-capacity toner options to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
Are multifunction color laser printers more expensive to maintain?
Multifunction models, which include scanning, copying, and faxing, tend to have higher initial costs and can incur more maintenance expenses due to additional components. However, they streamline workflows and eliminate the need for separate devices, possibly saving space and money in the long run. Regular maintenance and toner costs remain comparable to single-function printers.
What should I prioritize if I need a color laser printer for heavy-duty use?
For heavy-duty use, prioritize models with high duty cycles, large paper capacity, and fast print speeds. Look for printers with robust build quality and reliable toner systems designed for frequent printing. Security features and ease of management are also important to maintain productivity and safeguard sensitive data in busy environments.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall performance, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 4701dw offers professional speed, high capacity, and enterprise-grade reliability. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Brother HL-L3220CDW for dependable color printing at a lower cost. If you prefer an all-in-one solution with versatile features, the Xerox C235dni provides excellent value with scanning and copying. Beginners or small home offices might find the Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw easier to set up and operate, while businesses with high-volume needs should look at models like the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II. Your choice depends on your print volume, budget, and feature priorities—use this guide to match your specific needs.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
