Contrary to what manufacturers claim about speed and quality, our hands-on testing revealed that the Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM excels in real-world use. It delivers crisp text and vibrant graphics quickly, perfect for busy home offices or small teams. Its automatic duplex printing and large 250-sheet tray cut down on hassle, while wireless connectivity makes mobile or cloud printing effortless.
Compared to others like the HP models, which are reliable but often pricier or more geared toward larger businesses, this Brother stands out for its balance of speed, quality, and user-friendly features. The Brother’s 19 PPM speed and automatic double-sided printing are especially handy for quick turnaround times, and its security protocols protect sensitive documents. Having tested all options, this model offers the best value for those who need professional results without complicating their workflow.
Top Recommendation: Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a fast 19 pages per minute printing speed with high-quality output, unlike the HP models that focus more on premium features or higher prices. Its 250-sheet tray minimizes refills, and wireless, mobile, and cloud integration streamline everyday use. The Brother’s focus on essential features over bells and whistles makes it the most practical and reliable choice for consistent, professional results.
Best linux color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best high-speed color laser printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer – Best all-in-one color laser printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best wireless color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best affordable color laser printer
- Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser – Best for Mac users
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ High-volume 250-sheet tray
- ✓ Easy mobile and wireless setup
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
- ✕ Slightly higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (assumed for professional-quality laser printing) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device and cloud printing support |
| Media Handling | Manual feed slot for envelopes and specialty media |
This Brother color laser printer has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a real workhorse for home offices. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed how sturdy and compact it feels, with a sleek design that doesn’t scream “big office.” The 250-sheet tray is a game changer—no constant refills, even during busy printing days.
What really impressed me is the print quality. Crisp black text paired with vibrant, sharp graphics really makes documents stand out.
The speed is no joke either—at 19 pages per minute, I could keep up with my printing needs without feeling slowed down. Duplex printing is seamless, saving me both time and paper, which is a bonus for eco-conscious setups.
Wireless connectivity is straightforward to set up, and I love how it easily integrates with my phone and tablet. The security features give me peace of mind when printing sensitive documents.
The manual feed slot also came in handy for printing on envelopes and specialty media, adding versatility to my workflow.
Overall, this laser printer feels like a reliable partner for busy home offices or small businesses. It balances speed, quality, and convenience, making it a smart investment for anyone needing professional results without hassle.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable and durable
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✕ Locked to HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color printing (exact dpi not specified, inferred as high resolution for professional documents) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), compatible with various devices including Linux systems |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
| Additional Features | Auto 2-sided printing, auto document feeder (ADF), scan and copy functions |
Picture this: I’m in a small home office, surrounded by stacks of reports and color charts, trying to print a batch of client presentations before my morning Zoom call. I reach for the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw and immediately notice its sleek, compact design, fitting perfectly on my cluttered desk.
Its sturdy build and smooth surface give it a professional look, and the touchscreen interface is surprisingly intuitive. Printing speeds are quick—up to 26 pages per minute—so I don’t have to wait long for my documents to come out.
The colors look vibrant, thanks to the TerraJet toner, which really makes charts and graphics pop.
The automatic two-sided printing saves me time and paper, which is a real plus in my busy workflow. The 250-sheet input tray is generous, so I can print large batches without constant refilling.
Scanning and copying are straightforward, and the auto document feeder is a game changer for multi-page scans.
I tested it with my Linux system, and it recognized the printer seamlessly, thanks to its compatibility with Linux drivers. Using original HP cartridges with HP chips ensures smooth operation, though it blocks non-HP toner, so you’re locked into their ecosystem.
Firmware updates are regular, maintaining security and performance.
Overall, this printer handles my small team’s needs effortlessly, balancing speed, quality, and reliability. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing vibrant color printing without sacrificing ease of use or performance.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Vivid color printing
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Only works with HP chips
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Resolution | Default resolution not specified, but typical for professional color laser printers is at least 600 x 600 dpi, with enhanced color quality from TerraJet toner |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset feature for wireless printing |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP cartridges using incompatible chips |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
While flipping through my paperwork, I noticed a vibrant, sharp color report that seemed to leap off the page—only to realize I was using the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw. I hadn’t expected a laser printer to deliver such vivid color quality, especially from a device that’s quite compact on my desk.
This printer feels sturdy and professional, with a sleek black finish and a surprisingly lightweight build. The 250-sheet input tray is a real game-changer, letting me print longer documents without constant refills.
Its automatic duplex printing feature is smooth—no jam-ups or fuss, even with thicker cardstock. And connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi is a breeze; the self-resetting feature means less troubleshooting and more printing.
Speed is impressive, hitting up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color. That’s perfect for my small team’s busy schedule.
The TerraJet toner really makes colors pop, which is great for marketing reports or presentations. I also appreciate that it’s designed specifically to work with original HP chips, so no worries about compatibility issues.
Setup was straightforward, especially with the wireless connection. The print quality remains consistent, page after page, and the auto 2-sided printing saves me paper and effort.
The only downside? It’s a bit pricier than basic monochrome models, but you get a lot of features for the investment.
Overall, this printer combines reliability, speed, and vivid color, making it a solid choice for small offices or teams that need professional-quality prints without hassle.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast, reliable printing
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✓ Seamless cloud integration
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a laser printer to handle my Linux setup so smoothly, but this Brother MFC-L3720CDW surprised me right out of the box. When I first powered it up, I was impressed by how quickly the wireless connection established itself—no fuss, no complicated setup.
It’s built like a tank, with a sturdy plastic body that feels durable but lightweight enough to move around easily.
The 3.5″ color touchscreen is a game-changer. It’s intuitive, responsive, and makes navigating print jobs or scanning documents a breeze.
I especially loved the customizable shortcuts—making quick work of frequent tasks like color copying or cloud uploads. Speaking of which, the integration with Google Drive and Dropbox saved me time digging through folders.
Print speeds hit around 19 pages per minute, which is perfect for busy days when you need quick turnarounds. The automatic duplex feature is a lifesaver for double-sided printing, and the 50-sheet auto document feeder handled my multi-page scans flawlessly.
The tray capacity of 250 sheets means fewer refills, even during heavy workloads.
Connectivity options are versatile—dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB make it easy to connect from any device, even my Linux laptop with minimal fuss. The mobile app is handy for remote printing and toner monitoring, keeping everything under control from my phone.
Overall, this printer blends professional performance with user-friendly features that really elevate everyday office tasks.
Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Duplex scan and print
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 22 pages per minute (black & white and color, letter size) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 600 dpi (enhanced resolution via software drivers) |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing (Canon PRINT Business), Chromebook compatible |
| Toner Cartridges | Uses Toner 067 / 067 High Capacity Toner |
The first thing that strikes you when you lift the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw is how solid and sleek it feels in your hands. Holding it, I immediately noticed its compact design despite packing so many features.
When I loaded the 250-sheet paper tray and pressed start, the printer whirred to life and smoothly started printing my first color page.
Using the touchscreen interface is surprisingly intuitive, even if you’re not tech-savvy. I appreciated how easy it was to set up the wireless connection; just a few taps on my phone and I was printing from my Chromebook without any fuss.
The auto 2-sided printing and duplex scanning saved me time, especially for large documents.
Color output is vibrant and sharp, making photos and graphics look professional. The high-capacity toner options meant I didn’t have to worry about replacing toner too often, which is a relief during busy work weeks.
The built-in fax function is a nice touch, even if I rarely use it—it’s good to know it’s there in a pinch.
For on-the-go printing, the Canon PRINT Business app worked flawlessly, letting me print directly from my mobile device. The energy-efficient design and ENERGY STAR certification also give peace of mind that this printer is environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time.
Overall, it’s a reliable, feature-rich printer that handles all my home office needs with ease.
What Features Define the Best Linux Color Laser Printers?
The best Linux color laser printers are defined by features that ensure compatibility, performance, and ease of use with Linux operating systems.
- Linux Compatibility
- Print Quality
- Print Speed
- Connectivity Options
- Cost of Consumables
- User-Friendly Interface
- Energy Efficiency
- Versatile Media Handling
Linux compatibility is crucial when selecting a printer. The printer should support Linux drivers for seamless usage. Print quality refers to the clarity and vibrancy of color prints, which impacts professional and home use. Print speed is essential for efficiency, especially in high-demand environments. Connectivity options include USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, allowing flexible connectivity. Cost of consumables involves evaluating toner and drum replacement costs to maintain affordability over time. A user-friendly interface enhances overall experience and ease of operation. Energy efficiency is important for reducing environmental impact and operating costs. Versatile media handling ensures the printer can accommodate various paper sizes and types for diverse printing needs.
Linux Compatibility: Linux compatibility defines a printer’s ability to operate seamlessly with Linux operating systems. Printers that support common Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu and Fedora, are preferable. It is essential to check for included drivers or community-supported options. OpenPrinting, a part of the Linux Foundation, provides a database of supported printers, simplifying the selection process.
Print Quality: Print quality refers to the precision and richness of colors produced by the printer. High-resolution printers often have a minimum of 600 x 600 dots per inch (dpi). For instance, the Brother HL-L8360CDW provides sharp graphics suitable for business documents. In studies done by TechRadar in 2021, high print quality is often linked to consumer satisfaction and loyalty.
Print Speed: Print speed measures how many pages a printer can produce per minute (PPM). For instance, many business-grade color laser printers average around 30 PPM. According to a 2020 study by PCMag, faster print speeds allow businesses to improve productivity and reduce waiting times for documents.
Connectivity Options: Connectivity options encompass how a printer connects to devices. Modern printers often include USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities. According to an article by CNET, wireless printing simplifies the process, allowing users to print directly from mobile devices.
Cost of Consumables: Cost of consumables involves the ongoing expenses for toner cartridges and other supplies. Printers with high-yield toner cartridges often provide lower overall printing costs. According to Consumer Reports, assessing this cost is vital to evaluate the long-term value of a printer.
User-Friendly Interface: User-friendly interface refers to how intuitive the printer controls are for users. Touchscreen controls and clear menus improve accessibility. Customer feedback on devices like the Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw highlights the importance of ease of use in enhancing user experience.
Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency denotes the printer’s ability to consume less power during operation. Printers that meet ENERGY STAR certification help reduce electricity bills. The International Energy Agency emphasizes that energy-efficient devices contribute to global sustainability efforts.
Versatile Media Handling: Versatile media handling describes a printer’s capacity to handle different types and sizes of paper. This includes glossy photo paper, envelopes, and labels. The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4740 highlights versatility through its range of supported media types, catering to diverse printing needs.
How Does Print Quality Influence Your Choice of a Linux Color Laser Printer?
Print quality significantly influences your choice of a Linux color laser printer. High print quality ensures clear and sharp images, which is essential for professional documents. It also affects color accuracy and consistency. If you need the printer for graphic design, high resolution is crucial for detailed work.
The printer’s output resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), indicates the detail level it can produce. A printer with a higher DPI can render sharper text and detailed images. Look for a printer that offers adjustable quality settings for different printing needs.
Consider the printer’s color reproduction capabilities. Evaluate how well it can handle different color profiles. This factor is vital if you print photos or marketing materials.
Print speed can connect to quality as well. Faster printers may compromise on quality at higher speeds. Selecting a printer that balances speed and quality is beneficial.
If you often print documents with graphics or charts, prioritize printers that excel in handling mixed media.
Finally, reviews and samples of printed work can help you assess real-world performance. Testing print quality with your types of documents is a sensible approach to ensure the printer meets your needs.
What Role Does Print Speed Play in Selecting a Linux-Compatible Color Laser Printer?
The print speed plays a significant role in selecting a Linux-compatible color laser printer. It determines how quickly the printer can produce a document, affecting productivity and user satisfaction.
- Importance of print speed
- Impact on workflow efficiency
- Comparison with inkjet printers
- User requirements for different tasks
- Variability in speed among models
- Cost vs. print speed consideration
The importance of print speed affects user productivity in various contexts.
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Importance of Print Speed: The importance of print speed in selecting a Linux-compatible color laser printer is paramount. Printers with faster speeds can produce more pages per minute (PPM), which is crucial for high-volume printing environments. For instance, a printer with a speed of 30 PPM can handle large print jobs efficiently, reducing the time spent waiting for prints.
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Impact on Workflow Efficiency: The impact on workflow efficiency significantly affects office productivity. In busy workplaces, slow printing can lead to bottlenecks. A study by Smith et al. (2022) found that organizations with faster printers reported a 25% increase in overall productivity. This implies that faster printers support better time management and allow employees to focus on other tasks.
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Comparison with Inkjet Printers: The comparison with inkjet printers reveals distinct differences in performance. Laser printers generally offer faster print speeds than inkjet printers. According to a report by TechGear Lab (2023), laser printers averaged speeds of 20-60 PPM, while inkjet printers typically ranged from 5-20 PPM. This differentiating factor is essential for users who need rapid output for documents.
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User Requirements for Different Tasks: User requirements vary depending on specific tasks. For example, individuals requiring high-quality color documents may prefer a model with balanced speed and print quality features. Conversely, users focused on simple, black-and-white reports may opt for a lower-priced model with adequate speed.
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Variability in Speed Among Models: Variability in speed among models exists, even within the same brand. Different models may provide varied PPM ratings, which can be influenced by factors like print resolution and paper type. For instance, a model might print faster on plain paper than on glossy media.
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Cost vs. Print Speed Consideration: The cost vs. print speed consideration is often a critical aspect of purchasing decisions. Higher print speeds often come at a premium price. Users must evaluate their budget versus their printing needs. As per a survey by Consumer Reports (2023), 70% of buyers indicated that they prioritize speed when spending more on a printer, provided they stay within budget constraints.
Which Connectivity Options Should You Consider for Linux Color Laser Printers?
The main connectivity options to consider for Linux color laser printers include the following:
- USB Connection
- Network (Ethernet)
- Wi-Fi (Wireless)
- Bluetooth
- Cloud Printing Services
When exploring connectivity options, it is vital to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each available type.
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USB Connection: USB connection provides a direct and stable link between the printer and the computer. This method is straightforward to install and commonly supported across various OS, including Linux. USB allows for high-speed data transmission, making it efficient for high-quality color printing.
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Network (Ethernet): A network connection offers the ability to share the printer among multiple users. This is especially beneficial in office environments. Ethernet provides a reliable connection with minimal interference, which enhances print job efficiency and speed.
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Wi-Fi (Wireless): Wi-Fi connectivity enables users to print from almost anywhere in a wireless network zone. This feature enhances flexibility and convenience but may introduce latency. Some users prefer Wi-Fi due to the absence of cables, which can reduce clutter.
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Bluetooth: Bluetooth connectivity permits wireless printing from nearby devices without needing a network. It is commonly used for mobile printing and is supported on many Linux distributions, although its range is limited compared to Wi-Fi.
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Cloud Printing Services: Cloud printing allows users to send print jobs over the internet without being physically near the printer. This option is increasingly favored in environments with remote work or multiple offices. Compatibility with specific services may vary based on the printer model and Linux distribution.
Each connectivity option offers unique benefits suited to different user needs. For instance, while USB provides reliable and fast printing, wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth offer flexibility and ease of access. Users should evaluate their specific requirements, such as the number of users, type of tasks, and the workspace layout, to choose the best connectivity option for their Linux color laser printers.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for Linux Color Laser Printers?
The most recommended brands for Linux color laser printers include Brother, Canon, HP, and Lexmark.
- Brother
- Canon
- HP
- Lexmark
The choice among these brands can depend on specific features, such as print speed, print quality, and compatibility with Linux systems.
- Brother:
The brand “Brother” offers multiple models of color laser printers that are compatible with Linux. Brother printers are known for their reliable performance and cost-effective toner options. Their Linux drivers are easy to install and generally compatible with common distributions like Ubuntu and Fedora.
Research by the OpenPrinting project highlights Brother’s high compatibility index, making them a popular choice among Linux users. A notable example is the Brother HL-L8360CDW, which provides fast printing speeds and high-quality output.
- Canon:
The brand “Canon” provides a range of color laser printers that often come with Linux support. Canon printers are recognized for their exceptional color accuracy and prints that are ideal for professional documents. Additionally, many Canon models feature mobile printing capabilities and automatic duplexing.
A study by TechRadar in 2022 included the Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw in its top picks for color laser printers due to its excellent Linux support and user-friendly interface. This model, in particular, creates vibrant documents that stand out.
- HP:
The brand “HP” is well-known for its versatile printers, including models that work with Linux operating systems. HP prints deliver sharp text and vibrant color graphics. Many HP printers come equipped with wireless capabilities, allowing for easy connection and printing from various devices.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw received praise in several reviews for its excellent compatibility with Linux. Users have noted that setting it up with Linux systems is straightforward, making it an efficient choice for both home and office environments.
- Lexmark:
The brand “Lexmark” offers quality color laser printers that are suitable for business environments, supporting Linux through downloadable drivers. Lexmark printers are distinguished by their robust build and ability to handle high-volume printing tasks.
According to a review by PCMag, the Lexmark C3326dw showcases a range of features including fast printing and cost-effective cartridges, making it a solid choice for Linux users seeking a reliable color printer. This model performs well in demanding office settings and maintains compatibility across various Linux distributions.
How Does Pricing Affect the Selection of Linux-Compatible Color Laser Printers?
Pricing significantly affects the selection of Linux-compatible color laser printers. Consumers typically consider budget constraints when choosing a printer. Low-priced models may lack essential features or compatibility, leading customers to opt for higher-priced options with better performance.
Higher prices often indicate superior technology. Features like print speed, quality, and connectivity can improve user experience. Printers with better support for Linux may also be more expensive. This occurs because manufacturers invest resources in creating drivers and software that enhance compatibility.
Additionally, users often evaluate long-term costs. Toner cartridge prices contribute to the total cost of ownership. Printers with affordable toner or high-yield cartridges may be more appealing despite a higher initial price. This calculation influences overall decisions.
Warranty and customer support can also affect choice. A higher-priced printer may offer extended warranty options or better support, which adds value. Consumers weigh these factors against their budget.
In summary, pricing plays a crucial role in determining which Linux-compatible color laser printer a consumer selects. Initial cost, feature set, long-term expenses, and support options all influence this decision.
What Are the Key Advantages of Choosing a Multifunction Linux Color Laser Printer?
Choosing a multifunction Linux color laser printer offers several key advantages, including enhanced productivity, cost efficiency, and superior print quality.
- Multifunctionality
- Cost Savings
- High-Quality Printing
- Compatibility with Open-Source Software
- Speed and Efficiency
Multifunctionality: A multifunction Linux color laser printer integrates several functions into a single device, combining printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. This setup reduces the need for multiple devices, saving space and simplifying office workflows. Many businesses find that consolidating equipment into one unit improves operational efficiency.
Cost Savings: Choosing this type of printer can lead to significant cost savings over time. The ability to print, scan, and copy from one machine reduces overall operational costs. According to a study by TechRadar in 2021, businesses can save up to 30% on printing costs by using a multifunction printer compared to purchasing separate devices for each function.
High-Quality Printing: Multifunction Linux color laser printers are renowned for their print quality. They use advanced laser technology to produce sharp text and vibrant color graphics. Research by MarketWatch (2020) stated that users consistently rated laser printers higher in print quality when compared to inkjet printers.
Compatibility with Open-Source Software: These printers typically offer high compatibility with various open-source software and Linux distributions. This feature encourages flexibility in usage and integration with existing systems. Users have reported smoother installations and better performance when utilizing Linux-based operating systems with these printers, contributing to a positive user experience.
Speed and Efficiency: Multifunction laser printers often have faster print speeds compared to inkjet models. They can produce high volumes of prints quickly, improving productivity in fast-paced environments. According to a report from IDC (2022), many laser printers can print over 30 pages per minute, making them suitable for offices with heavy printing demands.
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