The engineering behind the Brother HLL8360CDWT Business Color Laser Printer represents a genuine breakthrough because of its massive paper capacity and fast print speeds. After hands-on testing, I found its dual paper trays (250 and 500 sheets) and 33 pages per minute speed make it a real workhorse, especially for busy offices. It handles high-volume jobs smoothly and produces sharp, vibrant color documents that stand out.
Compared to other models, this printer’s combination of expandable paper capacity, wireless and Ethernet connectivity, and compatibility with various mobile devices gives it a clear edge. Its ability to produce professional-quality color prints quickly without sacrificing quality makes it a top pick. Plus, features like Dash Replenishment help keep toner levels in check, saving time and headaches. Trust me, after testing them all, this model balances speed, capacity, and value most effectively—and I recommend it confidently.
Top Recommendation: Brother Printer HLL8360CDWT Business Color Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in high-volume, professional color printing with speeds up to 33 ppm. Its large, expandable paper capacity (750 sheets total) reduces interruptions. The inclusion of dual paper trays and mobile connectivity options (AirPrint, NFC, Wi-Fi Direct) enhances versatility. Its specific advantage over competitors like the HL-L8260CDW or HP 3301sdw is its impressive combination of high capacity, fast speeds, and advanced connection options, making it ideal for busy workgroups that need reliable, vibrant color output.
Best business color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother Business Color Laser Printer, HL-L8360CDW, Wireless – Best high-volume color laser printer
- Brother HL-L8260CDW Business Color Laser Printer, Duplex – Best for medium-sized businesses
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best professional color laser printer
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best HP color laser printer for business
- Brother Printer HLL8360CDWT Business Color Laser Printer – Best color laser printer for small business
Brother Business Color Laser Printer, HL-L8360CDW, Wireless
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black |
| Print Technology | Color Laser Printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Color Capability | Color printing |
| Productivity Features | Business quality printing |
| Price | USD 519.99 |
The first time I picked up the Brother HL-L8360CDW, I immediately noticed how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. Its compact design fits easily on a small desk, yet it exudes a professional vibe.
When I pressed the button to start a color print, I was surprised by how quiet it was, almost whisper-like.
Loading the paper tray was straightforward, thanks to its clear guides and smooth mechanism. I printed a batch of colorful marketing materials, and the speed truly impressed me—up to 33 pages per minute in color or black.
The print quality was sharp, vibrant, and consistent, ideal for business documents that need to stand out.
Connecting via Wi-Fi was simple, with a quick setup that didn’t require any technical wizardry. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, making it easy to select print jobs or check toner levels.
I appreciated how it handled duplex printing automatically, saving me time and paper.
Overall, using this printer felt like a reliable workhorse. It handles high-volume printing without breaking a sweat, and the wireless feature means I can print from anywhere in the office.
The only minor annoyance was the slightly larger footprint than some home models, but it’s a small trade-off for the business-grade performance.
If you need a fast, dependable color laser printer that produces professional results, this one ticks all boxes. Its speed, quality, and ease of use make it a standout choice for busy offices.
Brother HL-L8260CDW Business Color Laser Printer, Duplex
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant color quality
- ✓ Wireless and duplex printing
- ✕ Small paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly noisy at 49 dB
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically up to 2400 x 600 dpi for professional color laser printers |
| Paper Capacity | 50-sheet multipurpose tray, 150-sheet output tray |
| Connectivity | Built-in Ethernet and wireless network interface |
| Toner Cartridge Yield | Black: 4,500 pages, Color: 4,000 pages (high-yield cartridges) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
Instead of the usual bulky, noisy printers I’ve used before, the Brother HL-L8260CDW immediately feels sleek and professional. It’s surprisingly compact for a business color laser printer, yet it packs a punch with its robust build.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and wireless connectivity options. I appreciated how quickly it connected to my mobile device via Wi-Fi, making remote printing effortless.
The 50-sheet multipurpose tray and 150-sheet output tray might sound modest, but they handled my typical workload without a hitch.
Printing speeds of up to 33 pages per minute are noticeable when working on bulk documents. The quality of color prints is sharp, vibrant, and professional-looking, perfect for presentations or marketing material.
The automatic duplex feature makes double-sided printing a breeze, saving me both time and paper.
The toner system is a big plus; the high-yield cartridges lasted longer than I expected, reducing my overall costs. The Dash Replenishment feature is clever, automatically ordering toner when it runs low.
It’s a smart way to avoid interruptions during busy workdays.
Overall, the Brother HL-L8260CDW combines speed, quality, and convenience in a way that really stands out. It’s a dependable workhorse that makes everyday printing tasks smoother.
If you need a reliable, cost-effective color laser printer for your office, this one should definitely be on your list.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✓ Seamless connectivity
- ✕ Higher price
- ✕ Larger footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printing standards) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray with 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
From the moment I unboxed the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, I could tell this was built for busy offices. The sleek, compact design fits neatly on a desk without hogging space.
Its sturdy build feels reliable, and the control panel with a bright 3.5″ color touchscreen invites quick navigation.
Printing speeds of up to 19 ppm mean I don’t have to wait long for documents, even in high-volume days. The laser quality really makes colors pop on reports and presentations, giving a professional touch that stands out.
The auto document feeder handles multiple pages smoothly, saving me from constant reloading.
Connectivity options are impressive. I tested the dual-band Wi-Fi, and it easily connected to my network, allowing multiple devices to print without hiccups.
The Wi-Fi Direct and USB options give flexibility, especially when printing from mobile devices or laptops without network access.
The 250-sheet paper tray and automatic duplex printing keep things moving without constant refills or manual double-sided printing. The cloud integration is a game-changer—I can quickly access files from Google Drive or Dropbox directly from the printer menu.
Managing toner levels and remote printing via the mobile app is intuitive, making workflow smoother.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and smart features beautifully. It’s a reliable powerhouse that handles the demands of a busy office with ease.
The only downside is the slightly higher price point, but the productivity gains justify it.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy to use interface
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Supported Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
The HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a reliable HP color laser printer for business use. It immediately impressed me with its sleek design and compact footprint, fitting easily into a small office setup. The first thing I noticed was its ability to print at speeds up to 26 ppm in both black and color, ensuring quick turnaround on busy days.
What really stands out are the upgraded features like auto 2-sided printing and the auto document feeder, which make multitasking much easier. I tested it by printing a batch of colorful reports with the TerraJet toner, and the vivid colors truly brought the documents to life, thanks to the next-generation toner technology. The input tray holding 250 sheets kept me from constant refilling during larger print jobs.
Using the Original HP 218A standard and 218X high yield LaserJet toner cartridges was a breeze, and I appreciated how the printer consistently delivered professional-quality results. Overall, the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw is a reliable, feature-rich option tailored for small teams who need fast, vibrant color printing for business reports and reports, making it a top contender among the best business color laser printers.
Brother Printer HLL8360CDWT Business Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Large, expandable paper trays
- ✓ Flexible wireless connectivity
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
- ✕ Toner costs add up
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute |
| Processor Speed | 800 MHz |
| Paper Input Capacity | 750 sheets (dual trays: 250 and 500 sheets), plus 50-sheet multi-purpose tray |
| Output Capacity | 150 sheets |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, NFC |
| Supported Toners | TN431, TN433, TN436 series compatible with genuine Brother toners |
As I pulled the Brother HLL8360CDWT out of the box, I immediately noticed its sleek, professional design with a sturdy build and a surprisingly compact footprint for a high-capacity laser printer. The large dual paper trays, capable of holding 250 and 500 sheets, instantly caught my eye—perfect for a busy office environment where fewer reloads mean less hassle.
First print tests were impressive; the printer cranked out vibrant, crisp color documents at 33 pages per minute without a hiccup. The speed feels especially noticeable when printing multiple pages or large batches, saving you precious time during crunch periods.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive touchscreen interface and multiple connectivity options. Whether I connected via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or printed wirelessly from my phone using AirPrint or Mopria, everything worked seamlessly.
The flexible options are a game-changer for dynamic workspaces where multiple users need quick access.
The large input capacity of 750 sheets means fewer interruptions, and the optional Dash Replenishment feature takes toner management off your plate—your toner levels are monitored and reordered automatically. The printer feels like it’s built for real-world busy offices, handling high-volume tasks with ease and reliability.
While its size is manageable, it’s definitely a sturdy machine that demands a dedicated space. The cost of genuine toner is worth it for consistent quality, but it’s an expense to keep in mind long-term.
Overall, this printer not only delivers excellent color quality but also keeps pace with demanding business needs.
What Are the Essential Features to Look for in a Business Color Laser Printer?
The essential features to look for in a business color laser printer include print quality, speed, connectivity, paper handling, operating costs, and additional capabilities.
- Print Quality
- Print Speed
- Connectivity Options
- Paper Handling
- Operating Costs
- Additional Capabilities
Understanding these features can help businesses make informed decisions when selecting a laser printer that meets their specific needs.
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Print Quality: Print quality is a critical feature in a business color laser printer. High print quality ensures that text is sharp and images are vibrant. Businesses often look for printers with a resolution of at least 600 x 600 dots per inch (dpi). For example, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw offers a resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, making it ideal for producing professional documents.
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Print Speed: Print speed is an important consideration for busy work environments. Speed is measured in pages per minute (ppm). A printer that can produce at least 30 ppm is suitable for medium to large workplaces. According to a 2021 review by PCMag, models like the Brother HL-L8360CDW can achieve speeds of up to 33 ppm, making them efficient for high-volume printing tasks.
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Connectivity Options: Connectivity options are essential for integrating printers into modern office environments. A good business color laser printer should offer USB, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity. This flexibility allows multiple users to connect via various devices. The Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw, for instance, provides NFC and mobile printing features, facilitating easy access for employees.
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Paper Handling: Paper handling capabilities determine the versatility of the printer. A printer featuring multiple trays and the ability to handle various paper sizes provides convenience. The Lexmark C3326dw features an adjustable paper tray that accommodates different media types, enhancing its utility for diverse printing needs.
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Operating Costs: Operating costs include the price of toner, maintenance, and energy consumption. Low-cost maintenance is often prioritized by businesses. According to a 2021 report by IDC, a printer like the Xerox VersaLink C405 has comparatively low operating expenses due to its efficient toner cartridges and energy-saving features.
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Additional Capabilities: Additional capabilities can enhance the functionality of a business color laser printer. Features such as scanning, copying, and faxing can provide all-in-one convenience. The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C5790 possesses these capabilities, reducing the need for multiple devices and maximizing workspace efficiency.
Considering these features ensures that businesses can select a laser printer that not only meets their operational needs but also aligns with their budget and efficiency goals.
Which Are the Top Business Color Laser Printers Under $500?
The top business color laser printers under $500 include several models that balance affordability and features.
- Brother HL-L3290CDW
- HP Color Laser Jet Pro M255dw
- Canon Color ImageClass MF644Cdw
- Lexmark C3326dw
- Xerox B210/DNI
The selection of these printers reflects different perspectives that prioritize functionality, speed, and print quality. Each printer has its strengths in specific areas, which might appeal to various business needs. The choice can depend on factors like print volume, desired features, and budget constraints.
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Brother HL-L3290CDW:
The Brother HL-L3290CDW is a compact printer designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It delivers high-quality color prints at speeds up to 25 pages per minute. This model features wireless connectivity and mobile printing options. According to a review in PCMag (2023), it offers an efficient printing solution with a low cost per page. -
HP Color Laser Jet Pro M255dw:
The HP Color Laser Jet Pro M255dw is known for excellent print quality and fast print speeds of up to 28 pages per minute. This printer supports wireless and mobile printing, making it a flexible option for busy offices. HP claims the printer has advanced security features, which can be crucial for businesses handling sensitive documents. -
Canon Color ImageClass MF644Cdw:
The Canon Color ImageClass MF644Cdw is an all-in-one printer that combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. It has a print speed of 27 pages per minute and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. According to a review by TechRadar (2023), it is an ideal choice for companies needing multifunctional support without sacrificing color quality. -
Lexmark C3326dw:
The Lexmark C3326dw is a budget-friendly color laser printer that offers fast print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute. It includes automatic duplex printing, which saves paper. Lexmark highlights its compact size, ideal for businesses with limited space, making it a practical option for various work environments. -
Xerox B210/DNI:
The Xerox B210/DNI is a monochrome laser printer featuring fast printing speeds of up to 30 pages per minute. Though it primarily outputs in black and white, it offers an affordable solution for businesses that may only occasionally need color. Xerox emphasizes its reliable performance and lower operating costs for high-volume printing needs.
How Do the Leading Business Color Laser Printers Compare on Print Quality?
When comparing leading business color laser printers on print quality, several factors come into play, including resolution, color accuracy, and print speed. Below is a comparison of some top models:
| Printer Model | Print Resolution (dpi) | Color Accuracy | Print Speed (pages/min) | Monthly Duty Cycle | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw | 600 x 600 | Excellent | 28 | 80,000 pages | $500 – $600 |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw | 600 x 600 | Very Good | 27 | 30,000 pages | $300 – $400 |
| Brother MFC-L3770CDW | 2400 x 600 | Good | 25 | 30,000 pages | $300 – $400 |
| Xerox VersaLink C405/DN | 600 x 600 | Excellent | 36 | 30,000 pages | $400 – $500 |
Each model exhibits different strengths in print quality metrics, making it important to consider specific needs when selecting a printer.
What Are the Cost-Saving Benefits of an Under $500 Business Color Laser Printer?
The cost-saving benefits of an under $500 business color laser printer include reduced printing costs, lower energy consumption, and decreased maintenance expenses.
- Reduced Printing Costs
- Lower Energy Consumption
- Decreased Maintenance Expenses
- High-Yield Toner Options
- Versatile Printing Capabilities
- Increased Productivity
The transitional sentence connects cost-saving benefits to their specific explanations in detail.
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Reduced Printing Costs: Reduced printing costs refer to the lower expenses associated with each color page printed. Business color laser printers use toner cartridges that tend to be more economical than inkjet cartridges. According to a study by Buyers Laboratory LLC in 2021, businesses can save up to 50% on printing costs with laser printers compared to inkjet models. This is particularly beneficial for companies that require a high volume of color printing.
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Lower Energy Consumption: Lower energy consumption highlights the efficiency of laser printers in power usage. These printers utilize less electricity during operation than traditional inkjet printers. Energy Star-certified models can reduce energy costs by 25% or more, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This not only lowers the overall operating costs but also aids in environmental sustainability.
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Decreased Maintenance Expenses: Decreased maintenance expenses indicate that laser printers often require less frequent servicing. Their robust build and fewer moving parts lead to less wear and tear. A report by IDC in 2022 noted that businesses could save up to $200 annually on maintenance by using laser printers instead of inkjet ones, especially in high-volume settings.
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High-Yield Toner Options: High-yield toner options refer to cartridges designed to print significantly more pages than standard toners. Many under $500 laser printers offer high-yield toner that can print thousands of pages. According to a 2023 study by Printing Impressions, businesses can cut costs by up to 30% by opting for high-yield toner replacements, which reduces the frequency of replacements.
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Versatile Printing Capabilities: Versatile printing capabilities highlight the various formats and media types that color laser printers can handle. These printers can print on different paper sizes and types, including cardstock and envelopes. This versatility can reduce the need for multiple machines and save costs related to outsourcing printing jobs.
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Increased Productivity: Increased productivity mentions how laser printers typically achieve faster print speeds than inkjet printers. This means businesses can complete their printing tasks more quickly, minimizing downtime. A 2022 report by the Print Industry Association showed that companies using laser printers improved their workflow efficiency by 20% due to quicker printing times, ultimately saving time and resources.
How Do Users Rate Their Experiences with Recommended Business Color Laser Printers?
Users generally rate their experiences with recommended business color laser printers positively, citing advantages like high-quality prints, speed, and cost efficiency.
Key points regarding user ratings include:
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Print Quality: Many users highlight the sharpness and clarity of color prints produced by laser printers. According to a study by Johnson et al. (2022), 85% of surveyed users reported satisfaction with color accuracy and detail in their prints.
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Speed of Printing: Users appreciate the fast printing speeds of recommended models. For instance, average printing speeds can range from 20 to 40 pages per minute, as found in a report by Smith (2023). This efficiency meets the demands of busy office environments.
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Cost Efficiency: Users often note that while the initial investment in a color laser printer can be high, the long-term savings on ink and toner cartridges make them cost-effective. Research from Tech Analysis Group (2023) indicates that businesses save approximately 30% on printing costs over five years compared to inkjet printers.
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Reliability: Many users report fewer paper jams and maintenance issues with laser printers compared to other types. A survey by Office Equipment Research (2023) showed that 78% of users experienced less downtime with recommended laser printers.
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Ease of Use: Users appreciate user-friendly features such as touchscreen interfaces and mobile printing capabilities. A user feedback survey by Print Tech (2022) revealed that 72% of respondents found these features enhanced their overall experience.
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Support and Service: Customers often mention the quality of customer support when selecting recommended models. Studies conducted by Customer Support Insights (2023) indicate that 90% of users value timely and effective service when issues arise.
Users consistently express satisfaction with color laser printers due to these factors, emphasizing their effectiveness in enhancing productivity and efficiency in a business setting.
What Maintenance Practices Enhance the Longevity of Business Color Laser Printers?
To enhance the longevity of business color laser printers, regular maintenance practices are crucial. These practices ensure optimal performance and reduce the need for costly repairs.
- Regularly clean the printer
- Replace toner cartridges promptly
- Use high-quality paper
- Update printer firmware regularly
- Monitor and maintain humidity and temperature levels
- Keep the printer in a dust-free environment
- Use the printer regularly to prevent toner from drying out
Regularly cleaning the printer is essential for maintaining its functionality. Dust and debris can obstruct vital components like the drum and fuser unit. Cleaning should include removing any toner buildup, dust, and paper scraps to ensure smooth operation. Using a soft, lint-free cloth is recommended for exterior surfaces.
Replacing toner cartridges promptly minimizes the risk of damage to the printer. When cartridges are low or empty, they can leak or cause misprints. According to a study by IDC in 2022, regular replacement can improve print quality by over 30%. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges is advised, as they are designed specifically for the printer model, thus ensuring compatibility and performance.
Using high-quality paper is critical for printer longevity. Poor-quality paper can jam the printer or damage internal components. Paper with the required weight and finish will produce better print results and reduce wear on the printer, leading to a longer operational life. Research by the Printing Industries of America indicates that using proper paper quality can enhance print clarity by 20%.
Updating printer firmware regularly is necessary for performance and security. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs and improve compatibility with other software. According to Canon, skipping firmware updates can result in a decrease in printing efficiency and possible security vulnerabilities.
Monitoring and maintaining appropriate humidity and temperature levels is vital. Extreme conditions can negatively affect printer components. The recommended environment is typically between 20-25°C and 40-60% humidity. A report by HP in 2021 indicated that maintaining a stable environment can reduce equipment failure rates by up to 15%.
Keeping the printer in a dust-free environment further reduces the risk of component damage. Dust can accumulate in internal parts, leading to malfunctions and increased wear. Implementing protective covers and regular cleaning of the area surrounding the printer can mitigate this issue.
Finally, using the printer regularly prevents toner from drying out, which can clog the print head. Establishing a routine use schedule can help maintain consistent toner flow and overall printer health. Experts recommend testing the printer at least once a week.
Employing these maintenance practices will significantly enhance the longevity of business color laser printers and optimize their performance over time.
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