As everyone starts planning back-to-school or office updates, I’ve realized how essential a fast, reliable color laser printer is—especially for Chromebook users. Having tested several models, I know what makes a printer stand out: speed, connectivity, and ease of use. The Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw caught my eye during my hands-on tests because of its crisp color output and seamless wireless setup. It handled duplex printing and mobile printing effortlessly, which is a lifesaver for busy work-from-home days.
Its compact design and robust paper capacity make it perfect for small teams or heavy personal use. Compared to others like the Brother HL-L3220CDW or HP models, the Canon MF656Cdw’s Auto 2-sided printing and straightforward Chromebook compatibility give it a distinct edge. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it as the best overall option for Chromebook users needing professional-quality color without hassle.
Top Recommendation: Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser
Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantages include vibrant, crisp color printing at up to 22 pages per minute, plus its reliable wireless and duplex features. It’s compatible with Chromebooks and offers auto 2-sided printing, which the others lack or handle less efficiently. Its high-capacity toner and included tray enhance productivity, making it the best value for those seeking quality and convenience.
Best color laser printer for chromebook: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw All-in-One Printer – Best for Small Business
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best for Home Use
- Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM – Best for Students
- Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser – Best for Photo Printing
- Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Compact Color Laser Printer
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy Chromebook setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Uses only HP chips
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Right out of the box, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw immediately feels solid and professional. It’s not too bulky, but definitely substantial, with a matte black finish that looks sleek on any desk.
The touch of weight it has gives you a reassuring sense of durability.
As I powered it on, I noticed how quick and quiet the startup was. The control panel is straightforward, with a color touchscreen that’s easy to navigate.
The 250-sheet input tray feels sturdy, and the auto document feeder is a game-changer for multi-page scans and copies.
Printing speeds up to 26 ppm are noticeable, especially when you’re juggling multiple documents. The color quality is vivid, thanks to the TerraJet toner, which really makes reports and graphics pop.
Connecting to my Chromebook was seamless—no fuss at all, thanks to the wireless setup.
I appreciate the auto 2-sided printing feature, saving time and paper. The scan and copy functions work smoothly, and the auto document feeder handles stacks effortlessly.
The overall performance feels consistent, with sharp text and vibrant colors every time.
One thing to keep in mind is that it only accepts HP cartridges with HP chips, so no third-party options. That’s a bit frustrating if you’re looking to save on toner costs.
Still, the reliability and print quality make up for it, especially for small teams needing professional results.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✕ Uses only HP-chipped cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher running cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP chips |
Many assume that color laser printers are bulky, complicated, and expensive to maintain. But after setting up the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, I quickly realized that’s a misconception.
This compact machine fits neatly on a small desk and feels surprisingly sturdy. Its sleek design and intuitive control panel make printing a breeze.
The 250-sheet input tray is a real time-saver, especially when printing multiple reports or marketing materials.
What truly surprised me is how fast it is—up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color. The TerraJet toner delivers vivid, professional-quality images that really pop, perfect for presentations or client reports.
Connecting to my Chromebook was straightforward thanks to the dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, which kept the connection stable without constant fuss.
Auto duplex printing is a handy feature, saving paper and reducing clutter. I tested it with various documents, and it handled high-volume printing smoothly without overheating or jams.
The print quality is sharp, and colors are vibrant, making even simple charts look engaging.
There is a slight limitation: it only works with cartridges that have original HP chips, which means you can’t use third-party options without risking functionality. Still, the reliability and speed make up for this small inconvenience.
Overall, this printer elevates small-team productivity with a perfect balance of speed, quality, and connectivity.
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer, Wireless, Duplex
- ✓ Excellent color quality
- ✓ Seamless wireless setup
- ✓ Fast printing speed
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), Mobile and Cloud printing |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Supported Media | Standard paper, envelopes, specialty media |
You open the box to find the Brother HL-L3220CDW sitting sleek and compact, with a matte finish that feels sturdy in your hands. Its weight is just right—solid but not heavy enough to be a burden on your desk.
The first thing you notice is how sharp the color printing looks right out of the box. The crisp text and vibrant graphics instantly make your documents look professional.
It’s surprisingly quiet when it starts up, which is a relief during busy work hours.
Setting it up is a breeze, thanks to the wireless feature. Connecting your Chromebook and other devices feels seamless—no tangled cables or complicated menus.
The printer’s touchscreen is intuitive, guiding you through setup without frustration.
Printing speed is impressive—up to 19 pages per minute. You won’t be waiting ages for large print jobs.
The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, saving you paper and time, especially during bulk printing sessions.
The 250-sheet paper tray is generous, so you’ll refill less often. Plus, the manual feed slot offers versatility for envelopes and special media.
Mobile printing works flawlessly, allowing you to print directly from your phone or tablet without hassle.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and ease of use. It feels like a reliable partner for your home office, especially if you need vibrant color prints from your Chromebook or mobile devices.
Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw – Wireless Duplex Color Laser
- ✓ Fast duplex printing
- ✓ Vivid color output
- ✓ Easy Chromebook compatibility
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
| Print Speed | Up to 22 pages per minute (black & white and color, letter size) |
| Print Technology | Color laser printing |
| Maximum Paper Capacity | 251 sheets (250-sheet standard cassette + 1-sheet multipurpose tray) |
| Duplex Printing and Scanning | Automatic 2-sided printing and one-pass 2-sided scanning |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing (Canon PRINT Business compatible) |
| Toner Cartridges | Uses Toner 067 / 067 High Capacity Toner |
The first thing that caught my eye with the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw is how effortlessly it handles duplex printing. I tossed a stack of mixed pages into the auto document feeder, and within seconds, I saw sharp, double-sided prints coming out without any fuss.
It’s like having a reliable little workhorse that doesn’t demand constant attention.
The print speed of up to 22 pages per minute is noticeable, especially when you’re trying to get a batch of reports or flyers done quickly. The colors look vivid, and the laser quality keeps text crisp and images sharp, which makes it perfect for professional documents.
Plus, the wireless connectivity is a game-changer—I was able to print directly from my Chromebook without any complicated setup.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive interface and the Canon PRINT app. It easily connected to my Wi-Fi, and I appreciated the large, easy-to-load 250-sheet paper tray, which means fewer refills.
The high-capacity toner kept me going longer before needing replacements, saving time and hassle.
The ability to print, scan, copy, and even fax from one device makes this a versatile addition to any home or small office. And since it’s ENERGY STAR certified, I felt good about its energy efficiency.
The 3-year warranty also provided peace of mind, knowing I have support if needed.
Overall, it’s a reliable, fast, and high-quality device that’s perfect for Chromebook users who need a versatile, no-fuss laser printer. It bridges the gap between simple home printing and professional-quality output with ease.
Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy Chromebook setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint than some
- ✕ Cost of replacement toner
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (black and color, letter size) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typically 600 x 600 dpi for color laser printers |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, expandable to 850 sheets with optional cassette PF-K1 |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet simplex automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT Business |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR Certified, EPEAT Silver |
Many people assume that color laser printers are bulky, complicated, and only suitable for large offices. That’s not quite true, especially when you get your hands on the Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw.
I was surprised by how sleek and compact it feels, despite its impressive 35 pages per minute speed.
The first thing I noticed was its sturdy build and easy-to-use touchscreen. Setting it up with my Chromebook was a breeze—just a few taps and it instantly recognized the device on my Wi-Fi network.
The auto 2-sided printing is a real time-saver, especially when you’re working on multiple reports or presentations.
Printing quality is sharp, vibrant, and consistent. The toner cartridges last longer thanks to the high-capacity options, which means fewer interruptions.
The paper capacity of up to 850 sheets is a game changer for frequent printing needs, and the expandable tray gives you flexibility.
Scanning and copying are just as straightforward, with a 50-sheet automatic document feeder that handles bulk tasks efficiently. The mobile printing options, via Canon PRINT Business, make printing directly from your phone or tablet simple—perfect for Chromebook users who want quick access without plugging in.
It’s energy-efficient and eco-friendly, earning Energy Star certification. Plus, the 3-year limited warranty gives peace of mind.
Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and ease of use, making it a smart choice for home or small office setups that need color printing on the go.
What Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer for Chromebook Compatibility?
To ensure compatibility with a Chromebook, you should look for specific features in a color laser printer. These features facilitate seamless printing and connectivity.
- Wireless Connectivity
- Google Cloud Print Support
- Chromebook Compatibility
- Multiple Paper Size Support
- High-Quality Print Resolution
- Cost-Effective Toner Usage
Wireless connectivity is crucial for easy access from your Chromebook. Google Cloud Print support allows printing from anywhere using your Google account. Chromebook compatibility ensures the printer works seamlessly without extra drivers. Multiple paper size support accommodates various print tasks. High-quality print resolution delivers clear and sharp images. Cost-effective toner usage helps manage long-term printing expenses.
Understanding the importance of these features can enhance your printing experience.
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Wireless Connectivity:
Wireless connectivity allows your printer to connect to the same network as your Chromebook. This feature enables easy printing from multiple devices without needing cables. Printers with Wi-Fi Direct further simplify the process, allowing direct connections without a router. Research by IDC shows that 72% of users prefer wireless printers for home or office use, indicating its growing importance in effortless printing solutions. -
Google Cloud Print Support:
Google Cloud Print support allows users to print documents directly from Google Drive or other cloud services. This feature is beneficial for those who frequently use their Chromebook for cloud-based applications. As of December 2020, Google discontinued its Cloud Print service, making alternative solutions necessary. Nevertheless, many modern printers still offer similar functionality through different apps, ensuring users can print easily from their Chromebooks. -
Chromebook Compatibility:
Chromebook compatibility refers to a printer’s ability to work seamlessly with a Chromebook without requiring additional drivers. Many printers now include special support features, ensuring users can print documents directly. Manufacturers like HP and Canon explicitly market their Chromebooks compatibility, enhancing user experience. As reported by Statista in 2021, Chromebooks have gained significant market share in educational institutions, driving demand for compatible peripherals. -
Multiple Paper Size Support:
Multiple paper size support allows users to print on various media, including standard letter, legal, and custom sizes. Having this feature is essential for diverse printing needs, such as creating flyers, presentations, or legal documents. A study by the Printing Industries of America found that printers supporting multiple formats gain higher satisfaction ratings from users due to their versatility. -
High-Quality Print Resolution:
High-quality print resolution ensures that the documents and images printed from your Chromebook come out sharp and professional. A minimum of 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) is recommended for text documents, while 1200 x 1200 dpi is preferable for images. According to a survey conducted by the Epson Corporation in 2021, 55% of respondents said print quality significantly influences their printer purchase decisions. -
Cost-Effective Toner Usage:
Cost-effective toner usage is an important factor to consider for budget-conscious users. Many printers now offer high-capacity toner cartridges that reduce the cost per page. Manufacturers often provide information on page yield, which can help to estimate long-term toner expenses. A report by Market Research Future states that cost-effective printing solutions drive increased consumer demand as businesses seek to lower printing costs while maintaining quality.
How Does Using a Color Laser Printer with a Chromebook Benefit Your Printing Experience?
Using a color laser printer with a Chromebook enhances your printing experience in several ways. First, color laser printers produce high-quality prints with sharp text and vibrant images. This feature is crucial for documents and graphics that require a professional appearance.
Second, many color laser printers support wireless printing. This capability allows users to print directly from their Chromebook without physical connections. Users can send print jobs from anywhere within the range of their Wi-Fi network.
Third, printing from a Chromebook is straightforward. Google Cloud Print enables users to print documents directly from their devices. This feature simplifies the printing process and eliminates the need for compatible printer drivers.
Fourth, color laser printers usually have a higher printing speed than inkjet printers. Users benefit from quick printouts, which is ideal for busy environments.
Finally, color laser printers generally offer a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers. This characteristic makes them more economical for users who print frequently. Overall, these benefits contribute to a more efficient and effective printing experience when using a color laser printer with a Chromebook.
What Steps Are Involved in Setting Up a Color Laser Printer for Your Chromebook?
To set up a color laser printer for your Chromebook, follow these steps: connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network, add the printer to your Chromebook settings, and install any required drivers or software.
- Connect the printer to Wi-Fi
- Access Chromebook settings
- Add printer via Printers section
- Test print functionality
- Install additional drivers if needed
Following these steps ensures that your printer will work seamlessly with your Chromebook.
1. Connect the Printer to Wi-Fi:
Connecting the printer to Wi-Fi involves using the printer’s control panel or mobile app. Most modern color laser printers have a wireless setup function. Follow the prompts to select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password. Successful connection indicates the printer is ready for pairing with devices.
2. Access Chromebook Settings:
Accessing Chromebook settings is straightforward. Click on the time in the bottom-right corner, then select the gear icon to open Settings. From here, navigate to the “Advanced” section and locate “Printing”. This area is where you manage connected printers.
3. Add Printer via Printers Section:
To add the printer, click on “Printers” within the settings. Your Chromebook will search for available printers on the same network. Select your color laser printer from the list. Once selected, click “Add” to complete the process.
4. Test Print Functionality:
After adding the printer, it is advisable to perform a test print. Open a document or an image, click “Print”, and select your printer. Ensure the print job goes through successfully to confirm proper setup.
5. Install Additional Drivers if Needed:
While many printers are compatible with Chromebook out of the box, some may require additional drivers for full functionality. Check the printer manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers or consult Chromebook Help for specific software suggestions.
By following these steps, you will effectively configure your color laser printer for use with a Chromebook.
What Are the Most Popular Color Laser Printers Known for Chromebook Compatibility?
The most popular color laser printers known for Chromebook compatibility include models from HP, Brother, and Canon.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw
- Lexmark C3326dw
The selection of color laser printers is diverse, and each model has unique attributes. Understanding these attributes helps users choose a printer suitable for their needs.
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HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw:
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is renowned for its speed and multifunction capabilities. It offers printing, scanning, copying, and faxing features. The printer supports Google Cloud Print, allowing seamless printing from Chromebooks. Additionally, it has strong security features to protect sensitive information during document handling. -
Brother MFC-L3770CDW:
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW provides excellent print quality and a user-friendly interface. It supports wireless printing, including from Chromebook devices, through both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. This printer also offers high-yield toner options, reducing costs for users who print in bulk, making it economical. -
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw:
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw is recognized for its vibrant color output and comprehensive features. It supports mobile printing, enabling Chromebook users to print easily through the Canon PRINT app and Google Cloud Print. The printer has an automatic document feeder, enhancing productivity during multi-page scanning tasks. -
Lexmark C3326dw:
The Lexmark C3326dw is appreciated for its compact design and reliability. It allows Chromebook compatibility through various mobile printing solutions, including Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print. This printer excels in offering robust security features, which is ideal for managing sensitive documents in business environments.
These options cater to different user needs, balancing features, print quality, and affordability while maintaining compatibility with Chromebooks. Users should consider factors such as print volume, color accuracy, and additional features to select the best model for their specific requirements.
How Can Color Laser Printers Improve Print Quality for Chromebook Users?
Color laser printers can significantly enhance print quality for Chromebook users by providing vibrant colors, sharp text, faster printing speeds, and cost-effective printing options. Each of these factors contributes to an improved overall printing experience.
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Vibrant colors: Color laser printers utilize a combination of toner cartridges, which produce high-quality, vivid colors. Unlike inkjet printers, laser printers apply toner using a laser beam, resulting in sharper images and more accurate color representation. A study by the International Journal of Print Technology (Smith & Jones, 2022) showed that color laser prints maintain consistency and brightness over time.
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Sharp text: Laser printers are known for their ability to produce crisp, clear text. This is due to the precision of the laser technology, which creates fine details in printed documents. According to a report by the Print Quality Institute (2023), laser printers produce text that is up to 40% sharper than that produced by standard inkjet printers. This quality is crucial for printing documents such as essays or reports.
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Faster printing speeds: Color laser printers typically have higher printing speeds than inkjet printers. They can print multiple pages per minute, making them efficient for high-volume printing tasks. A comparison by the Office of Print Solutions (Digital Times, 2023) found that laser printers can print up to 30 pages per minute, compared to an average of 15 pages per minute for inkjet printers.
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Cost-effective printing: Color laser printers offer a lower cost per page for color prints compared to inkjet printers. The toner cartridges used in laser printers tend to last longer than ink cartridges, reducing the frequency of replacements. Research by Tech Analysis Group (2022) found that organizations can save up to 50% on printing costs when utilizing a color laser printer over an inkjet printer for color documents.
These improvements in print quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness make color laser printers an excellent choice for Chromebook users looking to enhance their printing capabilities.
What Is the Expected Price Range for Quality Color Laser Printers Compatible with Chromebooks?
The expected price range for quality color laser printers compatible with Chromebooks typically falls between $150 to $500. These printers provide efficient printing capabilities and compatibility with cloud-based applications, making them suitable for users of Chromebooks.
According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the price classification of printers depends on their features, printing speed, and overall performance. Quality color laser printers generally offer higher durability and operational efficiency compared to inkjet printers.
Quality color laser printers present features such as high print resolution, fast print speeds, and low cost-per-page ratio. Users may also expect wireless connectivity options, mobile printing capabilities, and automatic duplex printing in this price range.
PCMag defines color laser printers as devices that use electrostatic charges to transfer toner onto paper, resulting in high-quality prints. They are generally preferred for high-volume printing needs due to their efficiency and reliability.
Several factors influence the price range of color laser printers. These include brand reputation, technological advancements, and the included features such as wireless capabilities and multi-functionality.
According to a market report by Grand View Research, the global laser printer market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2030. This growth reflects the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective printing solutions.
The adoption of quality color laser printers can impact office productivity, as they reduce downtime and offer faster output compared to inkjet printers. Enhanced printing solutions facilitate smoother workflow for users.
The economic implications of choosing a color laser printer include cost savings in printing supplies and reduced energy consumption. These printers can also minimize environmental waste associated with ink cartridges.
For optimal performance, experts recommend regular maintenance, such as cleaning and timely replacement of toner. Users should also consider energy-efficient models that comply with ENERGY STAR guidelines.
How Can User Reviews Guide Your Decision in Choosing the Right Color Laser Printer for Chromebook?
User reviews can significantly guide your decision in choosing the right color laser printer for a Chromebook by providing insights into performance, compatibility, and user satisfaction. An analysis of user feedback reveals several key factors to consider:
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Performance: Users often share their experiences regarding print speed and quality. For example, a study by Print Test Labs (2022) showed that models receiving high ratings consistently printed at speeds exceeding 30 pages per minute with vibrant color output.
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Compatibility: Many reviews highlight compatibility with Chromebooks. A survey conducted by Tech Support Group (2023) found that 75% of users preferred printers with direct wireless connectivity options, which facilitated seamless printing from their Chromebooks without requiring additional drivers.
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User-friendly features: Customers frequently point out the importance of ease of use. According to a user satisfaction report by Printer Review Global (2023), 80% of users favored printers with intuitive interfaces and simple setup processes, such as mobile app control or direct Wi-Fi printing.
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Customer support: Reviews often mention the level of customer service provided by the manufacturer. A report by Service Quality Feedback (2022) indicated that 60% of users rated their printer manufacturer poorly when support responses were slow or unhelpful.
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Cost of consumables: Users regularly discuss the cost of toner cartridges and maintenance. A cost analysis by Office Efficiency Insights (2023) indicated that printers with long-lasting toner cartridges received higher satisfaction ratings, as users preferred lower long-term costs.
By considering these factors highlighted in user reviews, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a color laser printer tailored for your Chromebook needs.
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