When selecting a printer laser color, buyers face the challenge of balancing print quality, speed, versatility, and cost. The best models deliver sharp, vibrant color output while maintaining efficiency and reliability. The Xerox C235dni stands out as the overall top pick for its all-in-one functionality and consistent performance. Meanwhile, the Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw offers advanced features for busy offices, and the Brother HL-L3280CDW provides excellent value for home use. Each option involves tradeoffs between upfront cost, running expenses, and feature set. Keep reading to see how these models compare and find the right fit for your needs.

11
compared
4
brands
Which printer laser color should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L
Best Overall for Small Offices
Fast printing speed of 24ppm for efficient workflow
See on Amazon →
Small businesses or creative professionals needing fast, high-quality color printing without scanning or copying
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C
Fast print speeds of 26 ppm in color
View on Amazon →
Home or small office users needing reliable, color laser printing with simple features at a lower cost
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C
Fast print speeds of up to 27 ppm
View on Amazon →
Small offices needing a reliable, all-in-one color laser with high-quality output and multifunctionality
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301
Fast color printing at 26 ppm
View on Amazon →
Small offices or home users seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly color laser printer with scanning and copying
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless C
Decent print speed of 19 ppm
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L
✓ Fast printing speed of 24ppm for efficient workflow
✗ Limited to small monthly volume, not suitable for high-demand environments
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C
✓ Fast print speeds of 26 ppm in color
✗ No scanning or copying features, limiting multifunctionality
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C
✓ Fast print speeds of up to 27 ppm
✗ Limited to small office or home use
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301
✓ Fast color printing at 26 ppm
✗ Requires original HP toner cartridges with chips
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless C
✓ Decent print speed of 19 ppm
✗ Limited to monochrome copying and scanning
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless
✓ Fast print and scan speeds suitable for small office workflows
✗ Requires enrollment in a subscription service for full features
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C
✓ Fast printing speed of 27 ppm
✗ Relies on toner cartridges which may need frequent replacing
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase
✓ Crisp, vibrant color printing with professional quality
✗ Limited speed compared to higher-end models
Xerox C240 Wireless Color Lase
✓ Fast 26 ppm print speed with professional color quality
✗ Limited monthly duty cycle (1,500 pages), not suitable for high volume
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W
✓ Fast color print speeds of 26 ppm
✗ Limited to printing, no scanning or copying features
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cd
✓ Fast print speeds with high-quality color output
✗ Large footprint may require significant space

Key Takeaways

  • The best overall printer balances print quality, speed, and multifunction features without excessive cost.
  • High-volume users benefit from models with larger toner capacity and fast print speeds, even if they cost more upfront.
  • Compact designs are ideal for small spaces but may sacrifice some versatility or print volume.
  • Cost-effective options often have lower upfront prices but higher ongoing toner and maintenance costs.
  • Features like wireless connectivity and multifunction capabilities add value but can complicate setup and increase prices.
2
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C
Best for Color Quality and Speed in Small Offices
1
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L
Best Overall for Small Offices
3
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C
Best Value for Small or Home Offices

Our Top Printer Laser Color Picks

Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One PrinterXerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One PrinterBest Overall for Small OfficesPrint Speed: 24 pages per minuteFunctions: Print, Scan, Copy, FaxConnectivity: Wireless, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, MopriaVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Single-Function Printer – WhiteCanon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Single-Function Printer - WhiteBest for Color Quality and Speed in Small OfficesPrint Speed: 26 ppmPrint Technology: LaserColor: ColorVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser PrinterBrother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser PrinterBest Value for Small or Home OfficesPrint Speed: up to 27 ppmColor: YesConnectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile PrintingVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser PrinterHP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser PrinterBest for Multifunction in Small OfficesPrint Speed: up to 26 ppmFunctions: Print, Scan, CopyConnectivity: WirelessVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, 3-in-1 (Copy & Scan), Duplex, Mobile, Includes 2-Month TrialBrother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, 3-in-1 (Copy & Scan), Duplex, Mobile, Includes 2-Month TrialBest for Multi-Function Simplicity in Small OfficesPrint Speed: 19 pages per minuteFunctions: Print, Copy, ScanConnectivity: Wi-Fi, USBVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and FaxBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and FaxBest Overall for Small Office All-in-One FunctionalityPrint Speed: up to 19 ppmScan Speed: up to 29/22 ipm (black/color)Paper Capacity: 250 sheetsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Color Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile PrintingBrother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Color Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile PrintingBest for Small Offices and Home Use with Focus on SpeedPrint Speed: 27 pages per minutePaper Capacity: 250 sheetsConnectivity: Wi-Fi (dual band), Ethernet, USBVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and DuplexBrother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and DuplexBest for High-Quality Color at a Steady PacePrint Speed: 19 PPMPaper Tray Capacity: 250 sheetsDuplex Printing: AutomaticVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Xerox C240 Wireless Color Laser Printer for Home Office – Fast 26ppm, Professional Color, Wireless PrintingXerox C240 Wireless Color Laser Printer for Home Office – Fast 26ppm, Professional Color, Wireless PrintingBest for Home Offices with Professional Color NeedsPrinter Type: LaserPrint Speed: 26 ppmColor: ColorVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser PrinterHP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser PrinterBest for Fast, Reliable Small Office PrintingPrint Speed: 26 ppmInput Tray Capacity: 250 sheetsDuplex Printing: AutoVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer All-in-OneCanon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer All-in-OneBest for High-Volume, All-in-One Office UsePrint Speed: 26 ppmFirst Print Time: 10.3 secondsConnectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device PrintingVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
printer laser colorPrint SpeedConnectivityPaper Capacity
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L24 pages per minuteWireless, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C26 ppmWi-Fi, USB, Ethernet250 sheets
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Cup to 27 ppmWireless, Ethernet, Mobile Printing250 sheets
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301up to 26 ppmWireless
Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless C19 pages per minuteWi-Fi, USB250 sheets
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless up to 19 ppmWireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0250 sheets
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C27 pages per minuteWi-Fi (dual band), Ethernet, USB250 sheets
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase19 PPM
Xerox C240 Wireless Color Lase26 ppm
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W26 ppmWireless (dual-band Wi-Fi)
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cd26 ppmWireless, Mobile Device Printing250-sheet cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer

    Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer

    Best Overall for Small Offices

    View on Amazon

    The Xerox C235dni stands out for its versatility, combining fast printing at 24ppm with all-in-one functionality, making it a strong competitor against the Canon LBP646Cdw, which focuses solely on printing. The Xerox’s ability to scan, copy, and fax from a single device streamlines small office workflows, while its support for high-yield cartridges lowers ongoing costs. However, it’s limited to a monthly volume of 1,500 pages, which might restrict larger workloads, and Wi-Fi setup could challenge less tech-savvy users. Compared to the Brother HL-L3280CDW, the Xerox offers more productivity features but at a potentially higher initial investment.

    Pros:
    • Fast printing speed of 24ppm for efficient workflow
    • All-in-one functionality including faxing and copying
    • Supports high-yield cartridges to reduce replacement frequency
    Cons:
    • Limited to small monthly volume, not suitable for high-demand environments
    • Wi-Fi setup can be complex for some users

    Best for: Small offices needing a reliable, all-in-one color laser with budget-friendly running costs

    Not ideal for: Large or high-volume offices requiring more than 1,500 pages per month or advanced scanning features

    • Print Speed:24 pages per minute
    • Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
    • Connectivity:Wireless, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, Mopria
    • Supported Page Volume:Up to 1,500 pages per month
    • Starter Toner Yield:500 pages
    • Display:None specified
    Our verdict
    “A well-rounded choice for small offices seeking versatility and cost efficiency in color laser printing.”
  2. Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Single-Function Printer – White

    Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Single-Function Printer - White

    Best for Color Quality and Speed in Small Offices

    View on Amazon

    The Canon LBP646Cdw delivers impressive speed at 26ppm, making it ideal for users who prioritize quick, high-quality color output. Its single-function design sets it apart from all-in-one models like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw, focusing solely on printing but excelling in color fidelity and speed. The 5-inch LCD and high-capacity toner support smooth operation and longer use without frequent replacements. Yet, its lack of scanning and copying limits versatility, and larger offices might find the 250-sheet paper capacity insufficient. Compared with the Xerox C235dni, the Canon offers faster color print speeds but sacrifices multifunctionality for simpler operation.

    Pros:
    • Fast print speeds of 26 ppm in color
    • High-capacity toner reduces frequency of replacements
    • Simplified single-function design for ease of use
    Cons:
    • No scanning or copying features, limiting multifunctionality
    • Limited paper capacity at 250 sheets

    Best for: Small businesses or creative professionals needing fast, high-quality color printing without scanning or copying

    Not ideal for: Offices requiring multifunction capabilities or larger paper capacities for high-volume tasks

    • Print Speed:26 ppm
    • Print Technology:Laser
    • Color:Color
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
    • Paper Capacity:250 sheets
    • Auto Duplex:Yes
    Our verdict
    “An excellent choice for users who need quick, vibrant color printing with minimal fuss and no multifunction needs.”
  3. Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer

    Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer

    Best Value for Small or Home Offices

    View on Amazon

    The Brother HL-L3280CDW offers a balanced mix of speed and features at an attractive price point, reaching 27ppm and including automatic duplex printing, much like the Canon LBP646Cdw but with added connectivity options. Its compact size is ideal for small spaces, and the 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation. However, its limited to smaller office or home use, and it lacks high-capacity toner options, meaning more frequent replacements for high-volume users. Compared to the Xerox C235dni, this model is more affordable but doesn’t match its all-in-one versatility, making it best suited for users focused on straightforward color printing.

    Pros:
    • Fast print speeds of up to 27 ppm
    • Wireless and mobile printing support
    • Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
    Cons:
    • Limited to small office or home use
    • No high-capacity toner options, leading to frequent replacements

    Best for: Home or small office users needing reliable, color laser printing with simple features at a lower cost

    Not ideal for: High-volume or multifunction office environments where scanning and copying are essential

    • Print Speed:up to 27 ppm
    • Color:Yes
    • Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile Printing
    • Touchscreen:2.7-inch
    • Automatic Duplex:Yes
    • Paper Capacity:250 sheets
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for budget-conscious users seeking dependable color laser printing in a compact form.”
  4. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer

    HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer

    Best for Multifunction in Small Offices

    View on Amazon

    The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw is a versatile all-in-one that combines printing, scanning, and copying at a competitive speed of 26ppm, making it suitable as a central hub in small offices. Its automatic duplexing and high-quality color output match the capabilities of the Xerox C235dni but with a focus on reliable all-in-one performance. The reliance on original HP toner with chips can be a drawback, especially for cost-conscious users, and firmware updates may restrict non-HP cartridges. Compared to the Brother HL-L3280CDW, this model offers more multifunction features but at a potentially higher ongoing cost.

    Pros:
    • Fast color printing at 26 ppm
    • All-in-one functionality including scanning and copying
    • Automatic duplexing reduces paper use
    Cons:
    • Requires original HP toner cartridges with chips
    • Firmware restrictions may limit third-party toner use

    Best for: Small offices needing a reliable, all-in-one color laser with high-quality output and multifunctionality

    Not ideal for: Offices with high-volume printing needs or those seeking cheaper third-party toner options

    • Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
    • Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
    • Connectivity:Wireless
    • Automatic Duplex:Yes
    • Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
    • Compatible Toner:HP 218A, 218X
    Our verdict
    “A dependable all-in-one solution for small offices prioritizing multifunctionality and high-quality color output.”
  5. Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, 3-in-1 (Copy & Scan), Duplex, Mobile, Includes 2-Month Trial

    Brother HL-L3300CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, 3-in-1 (Copy & Scan), Duplex, Mobile, Includes 2-Month Trial

    Best for Multi-Function Simplicity in Small Offices

    View on Amazon

    The Brother HL-L3300CDW offers a practical 3-in-1 solution with a focus on affordability and ease of use, printing at 19ppm and supporting wireless and USB connections. Its compact design is ideal for small offices or home environments, and automatic duplex printing helps save paper. While the slower speed at 19ppm is acceptable for moderate workloads, the limited monochrome functionality for scanning and copying might not meet the needs of users requiring full multifunction capabilities. The included 2-month trial is useful but may not be enough for long-term use without purchasing toner or subscriptions.

    Pros:
    • Decent print speed of 19 ppm
    • Wireless and USB connectivity options
    • Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
    Cons:
    • Limited to monochrome copying and scanning
    • Speed may be insufficient for high-demand workloads

    Best for: Small offices or home users seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly color laser printer with scanning and copying

    Not ideal for: High-volume or busy office environments needing faster speeds or extensive multifunction features

    • Print Speed:19 pages per minute
    • Functions:Print, Copy, Scan
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB
    • Automatic Duplex:Yes
    • Paper Capacity:250 sheets
    • Energy Star:Yes
    Our verdict
    “A solid choice for users who want basic color printing with extra functions at a reasonable price point.”
  6. Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax

    Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax

    Best Overall for Small Office All-in-One Functionality

    View on Amazon

    The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out for its all-in-one capabilities, combining printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into a single device, making it a versatile choice for small offices. Compared with the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, it offers a broader feature set, including a built-in fax, but this comes with a higher initial cost and a more complex setup. Its 19 ppm print speed is adequate for moderate workloads, and the 3.5-inch touchscreen enhances usability, though the need to enroll in a subscription service for full features can be a hassle. The auto document feeder and secure printing are additional advantages for busy work environments. The main tradeoff is the higher price and setup complexity versus simpler, less feature-rich options.

    Pros:
    • Fast print and scan speeds suitable for small office workflows
    • Multiple connectivity options including wireless and cloud support
    • Intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen with shortcuts
    • Automatic duplex printing to save paper
    Cons:
    • Requires enrollment in a subscription service for full features
    • Complex setup process due to multiple functions
    • Higher initial cost compared to basic printers

    Best for: Small office teams needing an all-in-one device with security features and document management

    Not ideal for: Home users seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly printer without fax or advanced security

    • Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
    • Scan Speed:up to 29/22 ipm (black/color)
    • Paper Capacity:250 sheets
    • Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
    • Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
    • Display:3.5-inch color touchscreen
    Our verdict
    “This device suits small offices looking for an all-in-one solution with security and flexibility, despite its higher price and setup complexity.”
  7. Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Color Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing

    Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Color Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing

    Best for Small Offices and Home Use with Focus on Speed

    View on Amazon

    The Brother HL-L3280CDW makes a compelling case for users who prioritize speed and ease of use in a compact form. With a 27 ppm print rate, it outpaces the Brother MFC-L3720CDW in speed, but lacks the multi-functionality of an all-in-one device. Its 2.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies operations, and automatic duplex printing helps save time and paper. This model’s reliance on toner cartridges means ongoing replacement costs can add up, especially for high-volume tasks. It’s best suited for those who need quick, high-quality color prints in small spaces, but not for those requiring scanning or copying capabilities.

    Pros:
    • Fast printing speed of 27 ppm
    • Automatic duplex printing to save paper
    • Compact size fits small office or home environments
    • Easy-to-use color touchscreen interface
    Cons:
    • Relies on toner cartridges which may need frequent replacing
    • Limited to basic printing functions, no scanning or copying
    • Refurbished units may have limited warranty

    Best for: Individuals or small teams needing fast, quality color printing in limited space

    Not ideal for: Users needing multi-functionality like scanning or faxing, or for high-volume printing

    • Print Speed:27 pages per minute
    • Paper Capacity:250 sheets
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual band), Ethernet, USB
    • Touchscreen:2.7-inch color touchscreen
    • Features:Automatic duplex printing
    Our verdict
    “This pick is ideal for those needing quick, high-quality color printing without extra features or large footprints, accepting ongoing toner costs.”
  8. Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex

    Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex

    Best for High-Quality Color at a Steady Pace

    View on Amazon

    The Brother HL-L3220CDW provides reliable, professional-quality color output at 19 ppm, making it suitable for small offices or home setups where quality matters over raw speed. Unlike the Brother HL-L3280CDW, it offers similar wireless and duplex features but with a slightly lower speed, which may be a consideration for heavier workloads. Its wireless and mobile device compatibility ensures easy printing from various devices, but it lacks detailed info on paper handling and toner yield, which could impact ongoing operational costs. Its focus on consistent, crisp prints makes it a strong choice for those valuing color accuracy.

    Pros:
    • Crisp, vibrant color printing with professional quality
    • Wireless and mobile device compatibility
    • Automatic duplex printing reduces manual effort
    • Large 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills
    Cons:
    • No detailed toner yield info, potential for higher running costs
    • Limited speed compared to higher-end models
    • Higher initial investment may be restrictive for budget-conscious buyers

    Best for: Small office users prioritizing color quality and reliable wireless operation

    Not ideal for: High-volume printing environments or users needing extensive paper handling features

    • Print Speed:19 PPM
    • Paper Tray Capacity:250 sheets
    • Duplex Printing:Automatic
    • Wireless Connectivity:Yes
    Our verdict
    “This model suits those seeking dependable, high-quality color printing with wireless ease, accepting potentially higher ongoing costs.”
  9. Xerox C240 Wireless Color Laser Printer for Home Office – Fast 26ppm, Professional Color, Wireless Printing

    Xerox C240 Wireless Color Laser Printer for Home Office – Fast 26ppm, Professional Color, Wireless Printing

    Best for Home Offices with Professional Color Needs

    View on Amazon

    The Xerox C240 excels in delivering professional-quality color prints quickly at 26 ppm, making it a strong candidate for home offices or freelancers who demand vibrant, accurate output. Its compact size and easy wireless setup via the Xerox Easy Assist App make it user-friendly, especially compared to bulkier models like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW. The high-yield toner options help lower operational costs, though its monthly duty cycle of 1,500 pages limits it for more intensive use. It’s a reliable choice for those who prioritize speed, quality, and ease of setup without the need for multifunction features.

    Pros:
    • Fast 26 ppm print speed with professional color quality
    • Simple wireless setup and mobile printing support
    • Compact footprint ideal for small spaces
    • Low operational costs with high-yield toner options
    Cons:
    • Limited monthly duty cycle (1,500 pages), not suitable for high volume
    • Features like duplex printing may require manual activation
    • Lack of detailed paper handling specs

    Best for: Home office users or freelancers needing quick, professional color prints in small spaces

    Not ideal for: High-volume or multi-function users who also need scanning or copying

    • Printer Type:Laser
    • Print Speed:26 ppm
    • Color:Color
    • Wireless:Yes
    • Features:Auto Power On, Auto-Duplex
    Our verdict
    “This device is best for home-based professionals valuing speed and quality over high-volume capacity, with straightforward wireless setup.”
  10. HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer

    HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer

    Best for Fast, Reliable Small Office Printing

    View on Amazon

    The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw is designed for busy small office teams that need fast, dependable color printing. Its 26 ppm speed matches the Xerox C240 but with the familiarity of HP’s user interface and reliable wireless connectivity. It offers automatic duplexing and a 250-sheet input tray, making it suitable for multiple users and larger print jobs. However, it works exclusively with HP cartridges with embedded chips, which can lead to higher ongoing costs. Compared to the Xerox C240, it may lack some of the advanced app integrations but compensates with proven reliability and straightforward operation.

    Pros:
    • Fast color print speeds of 26 ppm
    • Automatic duplex printing conserves paper
    • Reliable wireless connectivity with self-reset feature
    • Large input tray for bigger jobs
    Cons:
    • Requires original HP cartridges with embedded chips, increasing ongoing costs
    • Limited to printing, no scanning or copying features
    • Firmware updates may be necessary for optimal operation

    Best for: Small office teams needing fast, dependable wireless color printing with high capacity

    Not ideal for: Single users or budget-conscious buyers who want lower ongoing costs or multi-functionality

    • Print Speed:26 ppm
    • Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
    • Duplex Printing:Auto
    • Connectivity:Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi)
    Our verdict
    “This printer is well-suited for small teams prioritizing speed and reliability, accepting higher cartridge costs for consistent performance.”
  11. Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer All-in-One

    Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer All-in-One

    Best for High-Volume, All-in-One Office Use

    View on Amazon

    The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out for its robust all-in-one functionality, combining fast color printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in a single device. Compared with the Xerox C235dni, it offers a higher paper capacity (250 sheets vs. 250 sheets but with an easier interface), making it better suited for busy offices with higher volume needs. Its 26 ppm speed and automatic duplex printing help keep workflows smooth, while the 5-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation. However, this model’s larger footprint may pose challenges for smaller workspaces, and the initial setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users. The high-capacity toner ensures fewer interruptions, but the device’s size requires ample room. This pick makes the most sense for offices that need a durable, versatile printer that can handle frequent, multi-function tasks without sacrificing quality.

    Pros:
    • Fast print speeds with high-quality color output
    • Easy wireless setup and mobile device printing
    • Automatic document feeder and duplex printing save time and paper
    • High-capacity toner reduces downtime
    Cons:
    • Large footprint may require significant space
    • Initial setup can be complex for some users
    • Higher price point compared to single-function models

    Best for: Medium to large office environments requiring a reliable all-in-one laser printer with high capacity and fast speeds.

    Not ideal for: Small home offices with limited space, as its size and footprint could be cumbersome and unnecessary for light, occasional use.

    • Print Speed:26 ppm
    • First Print Time:10.3 seconds
    • Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
    • Display:5-inch Color Touchscreen
    • Paper Capacity:250-sheet cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray
    • Automatic Document Feeder:50-sheet duplex
    • Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
    • Warranty:3 Years Limited
    • Energy Star:Yes
    Our verdict
    “This device is ideal for busy offices that need a durable, multi-functional laser printer with high-volume capacity and reliable wireless connectivity.”
printer laser color
What makes a great printer laser color
1
Print Volume and Speed
Assess how much printing you’ll do weekly.
2
Color Quality and Accuracy
Color fidelity is critical if you print marketing materials or detailed graphics.
3
Connectivity Options
Wireless features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing significantly enhance usability, especially in shared environments.
4
Size and Design
Consider your workspace and whether a compact model suits your area.
How to choose your printer laser color
1
How we picked
To evaluate these printers, I focused on key factors that matter most to buyers: print quality, speed, and reliability,
2
Print Volume and Speed
Assess how much printing you’ll do weekly.
3
Color Quality and Accuracy
Color fidelity is critical if you print marketing materials or detailed graphics.
4
Connectivity Options
Wireless features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing significantly enhance usability, especially in shared env
5
Size and Design
Consider your workspace and whether a compact model suits your area.
Vetted printer laser color ·
The best printer laser color, compared
★ Winner Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L
Best Overall for Small Offices
11compared

How We Picked

To evaluate these printers, I focused on key factors that matter most to buyers: print quality, speed, and reliability, especially for color output. Ease of use, connectivity options, and ongoing operating costs also influenced the rankings. I prioritized models that offer a good balance between upfront price and long-term value, considering their versatility for different use cases such as home, small office, or medium-sized business. Each product was assessed for build quality, user reviews, and feature set, with a clear distinction made based on who the model is best suited for. The top picks are those that excel across these criteria while offering tangible advantages over competitors.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which printer laser color fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Printer Laser Color

Choosing the right color laser printer involves understanding your specific needs and potential trade-offs. Several factors influence what model will serve you best, from print volume to budget constraints. Here are key considerations to guide your decision-making process, helping you avoid common pitfalls and select a printer that offers the best value for your intended use.

Assess how much printing you’ll do weekly. High-volume printers with faster print speeds are essential for busy offices, but they often come at a higher cost. Conversely, for occasional use, a compact or lower-capacity model can be more economical. Matching your needs with a printer’s rated pages per minute prevents overpaying for capacity you won’t utilize.

Color Quality and Accuracy

Color fidelity is critical if you print marketing materials or detailed graphics. Look for models with high resolution and consistent color output. However, keep in mind that better color quality often correlates with higher toner costs, so balance your quality expectations with your budget for supplies.

Connectivity Options

Wireless features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing significantly enhance usability, especially in shared environments. Ensure your chosen model supports the platforms you use—like AirPrint or Google Cloud Print—so you can print directly from smartphones and tablets without hassle. Omitting these features can limit convenience but may reduce upfront costs.

Cost of Consumables and Maintenance

While toner cartridges are the main expense, some models have high-yield options that lower cost per page. Pay attention to the initial purchase price versus ongoing costs, especially if you print frequently. A cheaper printer may cost more over time if toner and replacement parts are expensive or need frequent replacement.

Size and Design

Consider your workspace and whether a compact model suits your area. Larger multifunction printers offer more features but can be bulky and heavy. For small offices or home use, a smaller, streamlined design can save space, but it might sacrifice some functions like duplex printing or paper handling capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between single-function and multifunction laser printers?

Single-function printers focus solely on printing, typically costing less and being simpler to operate. Multifunction models combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, offering greater versatility for busy offices. If you need multiple capabilities but have limited space or budget, a multifunction printer makes sense. For occasional printing with no other needs, a dedicated printer might be more cost-effective and easier to maintain.

What is the typical lifespan of a color laser printer?

Most color laser printers are designed to last between 3 to 5 years with regular use, depending on build quality and maintenance. High-quality models with larger toner capacities tend to last longer, especially if you print in high volumes. Proper upkeep, like keeping the printer clean and using recommended supplies, can extend its service life. When choosing, consider the manufacturer’s warranty and support options as part of your decision.

Are wireless printers more expensive than wired models?

Wireless models often come at a slight premium compared to wired counterparts due to added networking features. However, the convenience they offer—like printing from mobile devices and multiple users—can justify the extra cost. In some cases, wired printers are cheaper upfront but may limit flexibility, especially in environments where multiple devices need access. Assess your connectivity needs carefully to decide if the added expense is worthwhile.

How important is toner yield when choosing a color laser printer?

Toner yield directly impacts ongoing costs and the frequency of cartridge replacements. Higher-yield cartridges reduce the cost per page and decrease downtime, particularly for high-volume printing. However, they often cost more upfront. Balance your expected print volume with the initial investment—if you print a lot, investing in high-yield cartridges can save money long-term. For light users, standard cartridges might suffice and keep initial costs lower.

Should I prioritize print speed over print quality?

Speed and quality are often at odds; faster printers may compromise on resolution, and high-quality printers may be slower. If you need quick turnaround for large batches, prioritize models with higher pages-per-minute ratings. But if your print jobs require sharp, vibrant output—like marketing materials—spending on a model with higher resolution makes sense, even if it takes slightly longer. The best choice aligns with your specific needs for speed versus quality.

Conclusion

For most users, the Xerox C235dni offers the best overall value with versatile features and reliable performance. Small office or home users seeking affordability should consider the Brother HL-L3280CDW, which balances cost and functionality. For those who demand premium quality and advanced features, the Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out as a top-tier choice. Beginners and occasional users will benefit from simpler, budget-friendly models, while high-volume workplaces should prioritize speed, capacity, and low operating costs. Ultimately, your ideal printer depends on your specific print volume, feature needs, and budget constraints.

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