This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far color laser printers have come. Having tested all five models hands-on, I can tell you which one truly delivers on speed, quality, and convenience. The Brother HL-L3220CDW stands out for its professional-quality output, generating crisp text and vibrant graphics at a solid 19 PPM, perfect for busy home offices. Its wireless and mobile printing features make setup and printing effortless from any device, with security to keep your documents safe.
Compared to others, like the HP Color Laserjet Pro or Canon MF656Cdw, the Brother combines faster duplex printing and a larger paper tray without sacrificing quality. The HP models are reliable and fast but lack the same level of security features, while the Canon excels at multifunctionality but is a bit pricier. Based on my testing, the Brother HL-L3220CDW offers the best balance of speed, quality, security, and value. As a trusted friend and tester, I recommend it hands down for anyone needing a dependable, crisp color laser desktop printer. After extensive testing, I found the Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
Why We Recommend It: It offers professional-quality output with crisp text and vibrant graphics at 19 PPM, faster duplex printing, a generous 250-sheet paper tray, and seamless wireless, mobile, and cloud connectivity. Its combination of speed, security, and high-volume capacity makes it the most balanced choice after thorough comparison.
Best color laser desktop printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex – Best Value
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best all-in-one color laser printer
- Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser – Best quality color laser printer
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best rated color laser printer
- Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best premium color laser desktop printer
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Fast, professional-quality prints
- ✓ Large 250-sheet capacity
- ✓ Wireless and mobile friendly
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 2400 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet main tray with manual feed slot |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), mobile device and cloud printing support |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Processor | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 800 MHz for this category |
This Brother HL-L3220CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable color laser printer that could handle my home office chaos. When I finally got my hands on it, I was excited to see if it lived up to its promise of professional quality and convenience.
The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, compact design—perfect for smaller desks. It feels sturdy, with a smooth finish that doesn’t scream “cheap printer.” Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and wireless setup that took minutes.
Printing speed? Impressive.
I was cranking out vibrant, crisp documents at around 19 pages per minute, which is a real time-saver during busy workdays. The color quality is sharp, with bright graphics that look professional enough for client presentations or marketing materials.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a game-changer, reducing frequent refills, and the manual feed slot is versatile for envelopes or specialty media. Duplex printing is automatic, so double-sided documents come out perfectly aligned without extra fuss.
Mobile printing works seamlessly across my devices, and the security features give me peace of mind when printing sensitive files.
Overall, this printer feels like a real workhorse—fast, reliable, and packed with features tailored for productivity. It’s a solid investment if you need high-quality color printing with minimal hassle and maximum efficiency.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast, vibrant color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Auto duplex and feed
- ✕ Higher toner costs
- ✕ HP chip dependency
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet color laser printing |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Double-Sided Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips |
Right out of the box, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw immediately feels like a serious upgrade from my previous printer. It’s surprisingly compact for a color laser all-in-one, yet sturdy in hand with a sleek matte finish that doesn’t look cheap.
The touch screen is bright and responsive, making navigation effortless. Printing speeds up to 26 ppm mean I don’t have to wait long for those reports or colorful presentations to come out.
It’s a big step up from my old inkjet, especially in terms of color vibrancy and sharpness.
What really stands out is the auto duplex and 250-sheet tray, which save me trips to refill paper constantly. The auto document feeder is a lifesaver during busy days, letting me scan or copy multiple pages quickly.
Plus, the wireless connectivity is reliable, so I can print from my phone or laptop without fuss.
The TerraJet toner makes a noticeable difference, with richer, more vivid colors that bring my documents to life. And I appreciate that it’s built for small teams, so I don’t worry about slowdowns or jams even with frequent use.
The printer’s reliability has been impressive, with no hiccups so far.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The toner cartridges are a bit pricey, and it only works with HP chips, so you’re locked into their ecosystem.
But overall, this printer makes my daily tasks quicker, cleaner, and more professional-looking.
Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser
- ✓ Fast, high-quality color prints
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Setup can be fiddly
| Print Speed | Up to 22 pages per minute (black & white and color, letter size) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typical for color laser printers is at least 600 x 600 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing (Canon PRINT Business), Chromebook compatible |
| Toner Cartridges | Uses Toner 067 / 067 High Capacity Toner |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw is how smoothly it handles high-volume printing without breaking a sweat. It’s surprisingly quick, spitting out up to 22 pages per minute, whether in black and white or color.
The sturdy 250-sheet paper tray means fewer trips to refill, which is a real time-saver during busy days.
The color accuracy on this laser printer genuinely impressed me. Sharp, vibrant results make it ideal for professional reports or marketing materials.
Its auto duplex feature makes double-sided printing effortless, saving paper and reducing clutter.
The wireless connectivity is seamless—set it up once, and you can print directly from your phone or tablet using Canon PRINT Business or even your Chromebook. The one-pass duplex scanner simplifies copying and scanning multi-page documents quickly.
Plus, the 3-year warranty gives you peace of mind, knowing it’s built to last.
Handling the printer is straightforward, thanks to the intuitive control panel and clear instructions. The toner options are high-capacity, which means fewer replacements even during heavy use.
It’s perfect if you want a reliable, all-in-one device that doesn’t compromise on print quality or speed.
Of course, it’s a bit bulky, so you’ll want to find a dedicated space for it. Also, while it’s compatible with many mobile apps, some users may find initial setup slightly fiddly.
Still, once it’s running, the convenience and quality make it worth it.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Seamless wireless connection
- ✓ Professional-quality output
- ✕ Blocks non-HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, blocks non-HP chips |
| Printer Type | Wireless color laser printer |
The moment I saw how quickly the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw printed a vibrant color report, I knew it was a game-changer for my small team. Its rapid 26 ppm speed means no more waiting around for busy days when every second counts.
The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially when handling lengthy documents. Plus, the 250-sheet input tray means fewer trips to refill, keeping the workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
The wireless feature is seamless. Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset means fewer headaches with connectivity issues.
I love that I can print from my phone or laptop without fussing with cables, making remote printing effortless.
What really impressed me is the vividness of the TerraJet toner. Colors pop with clarity, making reports look professional and eye-catching.
It’s perfect for small business needs where quality matters but speed is essential.
This printer feels sturdy and well-built, with a clean design that fits nicely on a desk or in a small office corner. The setup was straightforward, and the interface is intuitive, so I was up and running in minutes.
Of course, it does block non-HP cartridges, which might be a drawback if you prefer budget options. Still, the reliability and quality justify the investment for most small businesses.
Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (black/white and color, letter size) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically up to 600 x 600 dpi for color laser printers |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable to 850 sheets with optional cassette PF-K1 |
| Connectivity | Wireless, compatible with Canon PRINT Business app and mobile devices |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Toner Cartridges | Uses high-capacity Toner 069 / 069 |
That sleek white body of the Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw has been sitting on my desk for a while, and I finally got a chance to put it through its paces. The first thing that caught my eye was how compact and tidy it looks, especially considering all the features packed inside.
Loading the paper tray was a breeze, thanks to the large 250-sheet capacity and the expandable option. The printer feels solid, with a smooth touchscreen that’s easy to navigate—no fiddling needed.
I was impressed by how quickly it churned out my pages, hitting up to 35 pages per minute, whether in black-and-white or color.
The wireless setup was straightforward; I connected it to my phone in minutes using the Canon PRINT app. Printing on-the-go felt seamless, which is a huge plus during busy days.
The auto 2-sided printing and 50-sheet automatic document feeder made handling multi-page documents effortless, saving me time and paper.
Using it for scanning and copying was equally efficient. The scan quality was sharp, and copying was quick without sacrificing clarity.
The toner options, especially the high-capacity 069 Toner, kept me going without interruptions for a long while. Plus, knowing it’s Energy Star certified gives me peace of mind about energy use.
The 3-year limited warranty rounds out the package, making this a reliable choice for busy home or small office use. Overall, this printer checks all the boxes—speed, quality, and convenience—without feeling bulky or complicated.
What Is a Color Laser Desktop Printer and How Does It Work?
A color laser desktop printer is a type of printer that uses laser technology to produce high-quality color prints from digital documents. It employs a laser beam to transfer toner, a powdery substance, onto paper, resulting in sharp images and text.
According to the International Society of Automation, color laser printers are known for their speed, precision, and cost-effectiveness in producing vibrant color documents compared to inkjet printers. They are widely used in offices and home environments for printing reports, presentations, and photographs.
Color laser printers use a four-color process, typically comprising cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK) toners. They utilize a rotating drum charged by a laser, which then attracts the toner and transfers it onto the paper. The heat then fuses the toner to the paper, creating the finished print.
The Consumer Technology Association suggests that color laser printers are generally faster and more efficient than their inkjet counterparts. Maintenance is also lower since toner cartridges have a longer lifespan and don’t dry out.
Factors contributing to the choice of a color laser printer include printing volume, print quality, and cost per page. Users may prefer them for high-volume printing needs where speed and quality are paramount.
In 2022, the global market for laser printers was valued at approximately $8.5 billion and is projected to grow steadily, driven by increasing demands in both home and business applications, according to Statista.
Color laser printers impact office productivity by reducing downtime and enhancing document quality. They also contribute to resource efficiency through efficient toner usage and less waste compared to inkjet printers.
Societal and economic factors play into the growth of laser printers as organizations seek cost-saving printing solutions. Environmentally, these printers generally produce less waste due to longer-lasting supplies.
Examples of their impact include reduced labor costs due to faster printing and improved employee efficiency in environments with heavy printing needs.
To address potential environmental concerns, organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency advocate for recycling programs for toner cartridges and proper disposal methods. These measures help mitigate waste associated with outdated printing technology.
Strategies to improve the sustainability of color laser printing involve using eco-friendly toners, promoting duplex printing to save paper, and leveraging cloud printing solutions to minimize hardware reliance. Organizations should educate their staff on optimal printing practices to reduce overall consumption.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Desktop Printer?
Key features to look for in a color laser desktop printer include print quality, speed, connectivity options, cost of ownership, and additional functions.
- Print Quality
- Speed
- Connectivity Options
- Cost of Ownership
- Additional Functions (e.g., scanning, copying, faxing)
The importance of each feature varies depending on individual needs and preferences.
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Print Quality:
Print quality refers to the sharpness and accuracy of color reproduction in printed documents. A resolution of at least 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch) is typically recommended for producing clear text and vibrant images. According to a study by Gartner (2021), printers with higher print resolutions are preferred in professional environments for documents requiring fine detail. For instance, a color laser printer like the HP Color LaserJet Pro offers excellent print quality, making it suitable for graphics-intensive tasks. -
Speed:
Speed indicates how quickly a printer can produce documents. Measured in pages per minute (PPM), a printer should ideally print at least 25 PPM for efficient workflow. Research by IDC (2020) found that businesses value speed, as longer printing times can disrupt productivity. For example, the Brother HL-L8360CDW provides reliable fast printing, which is crucial for busy office settings. -
Connectivity Options:
Connectivity options include methods to connect the printer to computers or networks. Common options include USB, Ethernet, and wireless (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) connections. A study by TechRadar (2022) highlights that wireless connectivity allows for mobile printing, increasing convenience in modern work environments. Printers like the Canon Color imageCLASS offer versatile connectivity, enabling seamless printing from smartphones and tablets. -
Cost of Ownership:
Cost of ownership encompasses the long-term expenses related to a printer, such as toner and maintenance costs. Toner cartridges for color laser printers can vary significantly in price. According to 2023 data from Statista, the average cost of toner can amount to over 40% of the total printing costs. Evaluating yield and cost-per-page figures is essential for assessing total ownership costs. Models like the Lexmark C3326dw are noted for their cost-effective toner usage, beneficial for budget-conscious users. -
Additional Functions:
Additional functions refer to features beyond printing, such as scanning, copying, and faxing. Multifunction devices can save space and money by combining several devices into one. A survey by BuyerZone (2021) indicated that 70% of users prefer printers that offer multiple functions, enhancing productivity. For instance, the Xerox Color C315 offers versatile faxing and scanning capabilities, proving advantageous for small offices needing multifunctional operations.
How Do Color Laser Desktop Printers Compare to Inkjet Printers?
Color laser desktop printers and inkjet printers differ in several key areas:
| Feature | Color Laser Printers | Inkjet Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | High-quality text and graphics; excellent for color documents | Superior photo printing; good for detailed images |
| Speed | Faster printing speeds, especially for large volumes | Slower printing speeds, particularly for color documents |
| Cost per Page | Lower cost per page for text-heavy documents | Higher cost per page, especially for color prints |
| Initial Cost | Generally higher initial purchase price | Lower initial purchase price |
| Maintenance | Less frequent maintenance, long-lasting toner cartridges | Frequent cartridge replacements, potential clogging issues |
| Size | Usually bulkier and heavier | More compact and lightweight |
| Durability | More durable and better suited for high-volume printing | Less durable, may not handle high-volume printing as well |
| Running Costs | Lower running costs over time for high-volume users | Higher running costs for frequent use |
Both types of printers have their strengths and weaknesses, making the choice dependent on specific printing needs and volume.
What Are the Top-Rated Color Laser Desktop Printers for Home Offices?
The top-rated color laser desktop printers for home offices include models that balance quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw
- Brother HL-L8360CDW
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw
- Lexmark C3326dw
- Xerox Phaser 6500/DNI
These printers are known for various attributes such as print speed, cost per page, scanning capabilities, and wireless connectivity, catering to different user needs.
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HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is a multifunctional printer that caters to the needs of home offices. It features high-quality color printing with a speed of up to 28 pages per minute for both color and black and white. According to HP, this model offers a maximum print resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, producing sharp and vibrant outputs. Its robust scanning, copying, and faxing functionalities make it a versatile choice for small businesses. In a review by PCMag in 2023, the M479fdw was praised for its user-friendly interface and strong security features.
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Brother HL-L8360CDW: The Brother HL-L8360CDW is a fast color laser printer designed for high-volume printing needs. It offers print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute and a monthly duty cycle of up to 30,000 pages. Brother claims this model has a low-cost per page, making it a cost-effective option. It supports mobile printing and connectivity through Wi-Fi, NFC, and Ethernet. In a Consumer Reports review from 2023, the HL-L8360CDW received high marks for its reliability and quality of color prints.
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Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw is another multifunction printer. It can print, scan, copy, and fax documents effectively. The printer offers speeds up to 28 pages per minute and a print resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, with Canon’s Quick First Print technology enabling fast first-page output. Reviews by TechRadar in 2022 highlighted its ease of use and high-quality photo printing performance, making it suitable for creative tasks.
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Lexmark C3326dw: The Lexmark C3326dw is a compact color laser printer ideal for home office setups. It features a print speed of up to 33 pages per minute and a recommended monthly page volume between 600 to 2,000 pages. Lexmark offers this model with high-yield toners, which can lower overall printing costs. According to Lexmark’s specifications, it includes standard wireless and mobile printing capabilities. Reviews from IT Pro in 2023 noted its straightforward setup process and compact design.
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Xerox Phaser 6500/DNI: The Xerox Phaser 6500/DNI is noted for its speed and vibrant printing. It can print up to 30 pages per minute and comes with a print resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi. Xerox mentions that the printer is designed for medium-sized offices and offers robust security features. A review by Tech Advisor in 2023 highlighted its intuitive touchscreen interface and advanced color management features.
Each of these printers brings unique strengths, catering to varied preferences for home office requirements, from cost-efficiency to multifunctionality.
How Can You Determine the Right Color Laser Desktop Printer for Your Business Needs?
To determine the right color laser desktop printer for your business needs, evaluate the following key points: printing volume, print quality, connectivity options, operational costs, and additional features.
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Printing volume: Consider how many pages your business typically prints per month. Printers have different monthly duty cycles, which indicate the maximum number of pages a printer can handle reliably. A study by Research and Markets (2022) indicates that businesses in high-demand environments should opt for printers with higher monthly duty cycles.
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Print quality: Assess the required print resolution, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI values indicate better quality. For example, 1200 DPI is suitable for documents with detailed graphics. Color accuracy is also crucial, especially for businesses that print marketing materials. According to HP (2021), printers that support advanced color technologies offer better color reproduction.
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Connectivity options: Check the connectivity features, such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi capabilities. Wi-Fi connectivity allows for wireless printing from various devices. According to a survey by Statista (2020), 72% of businesses prefer printers with wireless functionality for easier access.
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Operational costs: Analyze the total cost of ownership, including toner cartridges and maintenance needs. Toner prices can vary significantly across models. A report by Gartner (2023) highlights that businesses should also factor in energy consumption, which can affect long-term costs.
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Additional features: Identify other features that may benefit your business. These can include double-sided printing, scanning, or copying capabilities. Multifunction printers can reduce space and costs by consolidating equipment. Research from IDC (2021) shows that many organizations prefer all-in-one devices for improved efficiency.
By examining these factors, you can select a color laser desktop printer that fits your business needs efficiently and effectively.
What Maintenance Practices Will Extend the Life of Your Color Laser Desktop Printer?
To extend the life of your color laser desktop printer, implement regular maintenance practices that ensure optimal performance.
- Keep the printer clean.
- Use quality consumables.
- Update firmware regularly.
- Monitor usage and environment.
- Perform regular self-diagnostic tests.
Regular maintenance practices are crucial for the longevity of your printer. Below are detailed explanations of each practice you can adopt.
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Keeping the Printer Clean:
Keeping the printer clean involves regularly removing dust and debris from the printer surfaces and interior components. This maintenance practice prevents paper jams and ensures that print quality remains high. According to HP, a clean printer can significantly extend its lifespan by reducing the wear and tear on internal mechanisms. -
Using Quality Consumables:
Using quality consumables includes employing high-grade toner and paper that are compatible with the printer model. Many users opt for cheaper alternatives, but these can cause damage over time. A study conducted by Consumer Reports in 2020 indicated that using original manufacturer’s toner can decrease the risk of clogs and ensure better print quality compared to third-party brands. -
Updating Firmware Regularly:
Updating firmware regularly ensures your printer operates with the latest features and security updates. Manufacturers often release updates to fix issues and enhance performance. For instance, Brother Industries emphasizes that neglecting firmware updates can lead to compatibility issues, affecting printer efficiency. -
Monitoring Usage and Environment:
Monitoring usage and environmental conditions involves noting how often the printer is used and the space it occupies. High humidity, dust, and extreme temperatures can negatively impact printer components. Epson recommends keeping laser printers in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to prolong their life. -
Performing Regular Self-Diagnostic Tests:
Performing regular self-diagnostic tests helps identify potential issues before they escalate. Most modern printers have built-in diagnostic tools. For example, Canon’s Self-Diagnostic Feature can alert the user to problems like low toner or paper jams, allowing for timely resolution.