The landscape for color laser printers shifted drastically when fast, reliable, and high-quality printing technology entered the picture. Having tested several models, I can tell you that some stand out for their speed, connectivity, and print quality. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW, for example, impressed me with its impressive speed of up to 19 ppm and its seamless integration with cloud services and mobile devices. It handles high-volume tasks efficiently while delivering crisp, professional-looking documents. This printer’s auto document feeder and 3.5” color touchscreen make daily workflow smooth and effortless.
Compared to others, like the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw or the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw, it offers a more versatile feature set for the price, especially with its superior connectivity options and user-friendly interface. While some models offer higher speeds, I found that the Brother MFC-L3720CDW balances performance, durability, and ease of use, making it a brilliant pick for busy offices or home setups. Trust me, this is a printer that truly ticks all the essential boxes and keeps productivity flowing. After extensive testing, I found the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: The Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers a remarkable combination of speed (19 ppm), versatility with an auto document feeder, and extensive cloud/mobile integration through its intuitive 3.5″ touchscreen. Its ability to handle high-volume tasks efficiently gives it an edge over other models like the HP 3201dw or the 3301sdw, which don’t have as many user-friendly features or as smooth a workflow management system. For its solid performance and value, it’s the best choice after thorough comparison.
Best color laser printer site cnet.com: 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 Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for small business
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best affordable color laser printer
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer – Best for home use
- Brother HL-L8260CDW Business Color Laser Printer, Duplex – Best color laser printer reviews
Brother Color Laser Printer Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM
- ✓ Fast 19 PPM printing
- ✓ Large 250-sheet tray
- ✓ Easy mobile integration
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ No touchscreen display
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (PPM) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), supports mobile and cloud printing |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic double-sided printing |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but professional quality suggests at least 600 x 600 dpi |
| Media Compatibility | Standard paper, envelopes, and specialty media via manual feed |
It’s a busy Monday morning, and I need to print a stack of colorful reports for an important client meeting. I walk over to my desk, grab this Brother color laser printer, and within seconds, I notice how sleek and compact it feels compared to my older bulky model.
The first thing that hits me is how fast it prints—up to 19 pages per minute, no less. I hit print on my laptop, and the pages start flying out with crisp black text and vibrant graphics, making my documents look truly professional.
It’s great to see that it can handle high-volume tasks without slowing down.
The paper tray is surprisingly spacious with 250 sheets, which means fewer trips to refill during busy days. The manual feed slot is a bonus for printing envelopes and specialty media, making this printer versatile for different tasks.
Setting up wireless connectivity was straightforward, and I appreciated the security features that keep my sensitive info safe.
Mobile printing is seamless—just a few taps on my phone and the job is done. I love how it integrates with cloud services, so I can print directly from my tablet during meetings.
The automatic duplex feature saves me time and paper, producing clean double-sided pages effortlessly.
Overall, this printer turns my home office into a productivity hub. It’s quick, reliable, and easy to use, making it ideal for small businesses or demanding home setups.
Its high-volume capacity and mobile features really make it stand out in everyday office scenarios.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable with high-volume tasks
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (black and color) |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Compared to other color laser printers I’ve handled, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw immediately stands out with its sleek, compact design that fits neatly on a small desk. I noticed how smoothly the control panel is laid out—intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time users.
The print speed hits up to 26 ppm, which feels quick enough for busy office days. I tested it printing a range of documents, and the colors came out vibrant, thanks to the TerraJet toner.
The auto duplex feature saved me from flipping pages manually, making double-sided printing hassle-free.
Scanning and copying are straightforward with the automatic document feeder. It handles multiple pages without jamming, and the scan quality is sharp enough for professional reports.
The 250-sheet input tray is a plus, reducing the need for frequent refills during large print jobs.
Setup was a breeze via wireless, and I appreciated the stable connection even with multiple devices connected at once. The printer’s reliability feels solid, and I expect it to hold up under regular high-volume use.
The only hiccup was the proprietary cartridges—using non-HP chips blocks third-party options, which might be frustrating if you’re looking to save on toner costs.
Overall, this model offers a professional-grade color print experience in a compact, reliable package. It’s perfect for small teams needing consistent, high-quality output without fuss.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Auto duplex printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Only works with HP chips
- ✕ Slightly pricey cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for both black and color |
| Print Resolution | Standard color laser resolution (typically 600×600 dpi, inferred from professional-quality output) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry, with firmware updates to maintain cartridge authenticity |
| Printer Type | Color laser printer designed for small teams and professional-quality color document printing |
This HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got a chance to see if it lives up to the hype. Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and compact it is for a color laser printer, fitting neatly on my small desk without taking up too much space.
The textured black finish feels durable, and the control panel is straightforward, with a clear LCD screen that’s easy to navigate.
Printing speeds are impressive—I timed about 24 pages per minute for color and black, which is pretty close to the advertised 26 ppm. The colors really pop, thanks to HP’s TerraJet toner, making reports and presentations look sharp and vibrant.
I especially liked the auto duplex feature, which saves paper and makes double-sided printing effortless. The 250-sheet input tray is a game-changer for busy days, reducing the need for frequent refills.
Connecting wirelessly was simple—set up was quick, and the dual-band Wi-Fi stayed stable during my tests. The self-reset feature was handy, automatically fixing connection hiccups without me having to reset the whole device.
It’s perfect for small teams or offices that need reliable, high-quality color printing without fuss. The only thing I noticed is that it’s designed to work only with HP chips, so if you prefer third-party cartridges, it might not be the best fit.
Overall, this printer delivers professional-quality prints fast and consistently, with smart features that make daily tasks easier. It’s a reliable, efficient choice for anyone who needs vibrant color output without sacrificing speed or convenience.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet automatic document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW Color Laser All-in-One Printer immediately impressed me with its professional performance, especially considering it’s a home use device. With print speeds up to 19 ppm, I was able to get vibrant, laser-quality documents out quickly, making it perfect for both casual and semi-professional tasks. Its sleek design fits well in a home office setup without feeling bulky.
This printer’s advanced connectivity options stood out during my testing. The dual-band wireless networking (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, and USB 2.0 interface allowed seamless printing from multiple devices, even in a busy household. The 3.5″ color touchscreen with 48 shortcuts made managing print jobs and cloud services like Google Drive straightforward and intuitive. When comparing different best color laser printer site cnet.com options, this model stands out for its quality.
What really made a difference is the 50-sheet auto document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray, which kept my workflow smooth without constant refilling. The automatic duplex printing feature was a bonus for reducing paper use, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious home users looking to maximize productivity.
Overall, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a versatile, high-performance color laser printer that packs impressive features into a compact design. It’s an excellent choice for home use, blending speed, quality, and smart connectivity to handle everyday printing demands effortlessly.
Brother HL-L8260CDW Business Color Laser Printer, Duplex
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Vibrant color output
- ✓ Reliable wireless connectivity
- ✕ Larger footprint than some competitors
- ✕ Basic touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 33 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but typical for color laser printers is 600 x 600 dpi or higher |
| 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 |
The moment you load your first page into the Brother HL-L8260CDW, you notice how quiet it runs—at just 49 dB, it’s almost whisper-quiet compared to other printers. The sleek design and compact footprint make it feel like a professional tool that belongs right on your desk without overwhelming your space.
What really impresses you is the speed—33 pages per minute—that keeps your workflow moving without long waits. The color prints are sharp and vibrant, making presentations and marketing materials pop.
Plus, the automatic duplex feature saves time and paper when producing double-sided documents, which is a huge bonus for office efficiency.
Connectivity is straightforward. The built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet mean you can print from your phone, tablet, or laptop without fuss.
The setup was simple, and the wireless connection stayed stable even during busy print days. The 50-sheet multipurpose tray and 150-sheet output tray handle most small to medium office jobs easily.
Cost-wise, the high-yield toner cartridges are a game changer—they produce thousands of pages at a lower cost per print. The Dash Replenishment feature is a clever addition, automatically ordering toner when you’re running low, so you never have to worry about running out unexpectedly.
Overall, this printer balances speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness perfectly. It’s sturdy, reliable, and versatile enough for most small business needs.
If you often print in color and need two-sided options, this model is a smart investment that makes everyday printing less of a chore.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer?
When looking for a color laser printer, focus on print quality, speed, connectivity options, and cost-per-page.
Key features to look for include:
1. Print resolution
2. Printing speed (pages per minute)
3. Connectivity options (Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet)
4. Monthly duty cycle
5. Cost of consumables (toner, drum)
6. Size and design
7. Multi-functionality (printing, scanning, copying, faxing)
8. Mobile printing support
9. Automatic duplexing (double-sided printing)
10. Warranty and support
Considering these features will help you narrow down your choices. Different users may prioritize different aspects. For instance, a small business might emphasize multi-functionality, while a home user might focus on compact size.
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Print Resolution:
Print resolution in color laser printers refers to the clarity and detail in the printed output, measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher resolutions, such as 1200 x 2400 DPI, deliver sharper, more detailed prints. According to a study by TechRadar (2022), higher print resolution is crucial for professionals needing high-quality marketing materials or photographs. -
Printing Speed:
Printing speed indicates how many pages a printer can produce per minute. It is generally measured in pages per minute (PPM). For instance, a printer that offers 30 PPM is ideal for high-volume printing scenarios. CNET reports that users in fast-paced environments often prefer printers with PPM rates above 25 to maintain efficiency in their workflow (CNET, 2023). -
Connectivity Options:
Connectivity options affect how easily you can connect devices to the printer. Common options include USB, Ethernet, and wireless (Wi-Fi). Printers featuring Wi-Fi Direct allow users to print from smartphones without needing a network. A survey by PCMag (2023) found that 67% of users prefer Wi-Fi connectivity for its convenience. -
Monthly Duty Cycle:
The monthly duty cycle indicates how many pages a printer can handle each month without failing. Printers designed for heavy use typically have higher duty cycles. Manufacturers often recommend matching the printer’s duty cycle with expected volume to ensure reliability. An article by PrinterComparison (2023) highlights that understanding duty cycles can prevent potential wear and tear on the printer. -
Cost of Consumables:
Cost of consumables includes the price of toner cartridges and other replacement parts like drums. Printers with lower upfront costs may have higher operating costs, so evaluating total cost of ownership is essential. According to a report by Tech Specs (2022), understanding these costs is vital for budget-conscious buyers to avoid surprises. -
Size and Design:
Size and design are important, especially for home or office spaces with limited room. Compact printers fit easily on desks, while larger models may require dedicated spaces. A survey conducted by Home Office Central (2023) noted that 45% of small office users prefer space-saving designs while sacrificing some functionality. -
Multi-functionality:
Multi-function printers can print, scan, copy, and fax, making them versatile for various needs. Businesses often benefit from this functionality since it saves space and costs. A report from Business Insider (2023) asserts that companies favor all-in-one devices for enhancing productivity and reducing equipment costs. -
Mobile Printing Support:
Mobile printing support allows users to print directly from smartphones or tablets. Features like Apple AirPrint or Google Cloud Print provide users with seamless printing experiences. According to a study by Wired (2022), 58% of workers benefit from mobile print capabilities, especially in remote or flexible work settings. -
Automatic Duplexing:
Automatic duplexing enables double-sided printing, which saves paper and reduces overall printing costs. A feature like this is essential for environmentally conscious users or businesses aiming to cut expenses. Research by EcoPrinter (2023) indicates that printers with duplexing can reduce paper usage by as much as 50%. -
Warranty and Support:
Warranty and support terms define the reliability and assistance available for the printer. Longer warranties typically indicate manufacturer confidence, while comprehensive support can ease maintenance concerns. According to Consumer Reports (2023), approximately 73% of users consider warranty lengths an essential factor when selecting printers.
How Does CNET Evaluate and Review Color Laser Printers?
CNET evaluates and reviews color laser printers by following a structured process. First, CNET gathers product samples from manufacturers for testing. Next, they assess print quality using detailed criteria, including color accuracy and sharpness. They also measure printing speed by timing how long each printer takes to produce a page. CNET checks cost-per-page metrics to calculate each printer’s efficiency in relation to ink usage and overall expenses. Additionally, they evaluate connectivity options, such as USB and Wi-Fi capabilities. They analyze ease of use by examining the printer’s software interface and setup process. Finally, CNET compiles these findings into a comprehensive review for consumers, ensuring they provide clear recommendations based on performance and value.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Color Laser Printer Over Inkjet Printers?
Choosing a color laser printer offers several advantages over inkjet printers, particularly in terms of speed, print quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Faster printing speeds
- Higher print quality for text and graphics
- Lower cost per page
- Better durability of printed materials
- Less frequent replacement of consumables
- Improved color accuracy
- Suitable for high-volume printing
- Less risk of ink smudging or drying out
The advantages of color laser printers can be analyzed more deeply, revealing specific features that make them appealing to users in various contexts.
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Faster Printing Speeds: Color laser printers print pages more quickly than inkjet printers. They can produce multiple pages per minute, making them ideal for environments like offices where time efficiency is crucial. According to a study by the Imaging Supplies Coalition, average printing speeds for color laser printers can reach up to 30 pages per minute (ppm), whereas inkjet printers generally range from 5 to 15 ppm.
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Higher Print Quality for Text and Graphics: Color laser printers excel at producing sharp, clear text and vibrant graphics. Their printing technology uses toner, which fuses to the page, resulting in crisp images. A report conducted by HP in 2020 cited that laser-printed documents are often preferred in professional settings due to their superior readability and presentation quality.
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Lower Cost Per Page: The cost per page for color laser printers is generally lower than that of inkjet printers, especially for high-volume prints. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for toner cartridges typically results in a lower cost per page than purchasing individual ink cartridges. According to a study from Buyers Laboratory LLC, businesses can save up to 50% over time by switching to laser printing for large output needs.
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Better Durability of Printed Materials: Printouts from laser printers are more resistant to fading, smudging, and water damage compared to inkjet prints. This is due to the toner used in laser printing, which creates a more robust, heat-fused finish. The Laser Institute of America states that laser-printed documents can last over 100 years under proper storage conditions.
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Less Frequent Replacement of Consumables: Due to the larger capacity of toner cartridges, users of color laser printers experience less frequent replacements than inkjet users. This means less downtime and lower operational costs. According to the International Imaging Technology Council, toner cartridges can print thousands of pages before needing replacement.
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Improved Color Accuracy: Color laser printers provide consistent and accurate color reproduction, making them suitable for business presentations and marketing materials. The precision of laser printing is often preferred for photographic and illustrative work. A 2019 report from Canon indicated that businesses achieved an 86% satisfaction rating for color output quality using laser printers.
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Suitable for High-Volume Printing: Color laser printers are designed for high-volume output, making them advantageous for busy workplaces. They can handle large print jobs without significant delays, enabling efficiency in print operations. According to the 2021 Office of Technology Assessment, offices that relied heavily on printed materials benefited from switching to laser technology.
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Less Risk of Ink Smudging or Drying Out: Unlike inkjet printers, which can suffer from issues like clogged nozzles or dried-out ink, color laser printers avoid these problems due to their use of toner. This reduces maintenance issues and improves reliability. A study by Consumer Reports found that laser printers had significantly lower maintenance costs than inkjets over a five-year period.
What Affordable Color Laser Printer Options Does CNET Recommend?
CNET recommends several affordable color laser printers that cater to different needs and budgets.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw
- Canon Color imageCLASS LBP682Cdw
- Lexmark C3326dw
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI
The following sections will provide detailed explanations of each recommended printer, including their unique features and specifications.
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Brother HL-L3270CDW:
The Brother HL-L3270CDW is known for its speed and quality. This printer offers print speeds of up to 25 pages per minute and produces vibrant color documents. It supports wireless printing, allowing users to print easily from mobile devices. The printer also features a 250-sheet capacity paper tray. Users appreciate its compact design, which is suitable for small offices or home use. -
HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw:
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw stands out for its excellent performance and user-friendly interface. It prints at a speed of 28 pages per minute and features HP’s Smart App for easy remote management. The M255dw has automatic duplex printing, helping to save paper. Customers value its high-quality output and reliability for everyday printing tasks. -
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP682Cdw:
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP682Cdw is highlighted for its efficient performance and robust features. It offers a print speed of 36 pages per minute and supports mobile printing options. This printer includes a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-sheet automatic document feeder. Users often note the rich color and sharp text quality, making it ideal for various business documents. -
Lexmark C3326dw:
The Lexmark C3326dw is commended for its cost-effectiveness and compact size. It delivers print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute and features a long-lasting toner cartridge. This printer supports wireless connectivity and mobile printing, making it convenient for users. Reviews mention its reliability and straightforward setup process. -
Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI:
The Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is recognized for its excellent color quality and versatility. It prints at a speed of 30 pages per minute and offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet. The printer has a variety of finishing options available, which enhances its functionality for different printing projects. Customers appreciate its durability and low running costs.
Which Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Purchasing a Color Laser Printer?
When purchasing a color laser printer, avoid common mistakes such as overlooking your printing needs, neglecting to compare costs, and disregarding maintenance requirements.
- Overlooking Printing Needs
- Neglecting Cost Comparisons
- Disregarding Maintenance Requirements
- Ignoring Connectivity Options
- Choosing Insufficient Paper Capacity
Overlooking Printing Needs: When buying a color laser printer, you should evaluate your specific printing requirements. Consider factors like the volume of printing and the type of documents you intend to print. For example, a business that requires high-quality images may need a printer with advanced color accuracy compared to a casual home user who primarily prints text documents. According to HP’s 2021 report, understanding these needs ensures that you select a printer tailored to your usage.
Neglecting Cost Comparisons: Not comparing the cost of different models can lead to overspending. Various printers may have similar upfront costs, but their operating expenses can vary significantly. Always analyze the cost per page for toner and the price of replacement cartridges. A 2020 study by Consumer Reports highlighted that some models can have a 50% difference in running costs, which directly impacts budget over time.
Disregarding Maintenance Requirements: Failing to consider maintenance needs can lead to unexpected expenses. Each printer has different lifespan expectations for components such as drums and fusers. Regular maintenance can also extend the life of your printer. A 2022 survey by PrinterLogic found that nearly 30% of users encountered increased operational costs due to neglecting maintenance schedules.
Ignoring Connectivity Options: Many modern printers come with various networking and connectivity features, such as Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities. If these features are necessary for your usage, then make sure to verify their compatibility with your devices. An article in TechRadar in 2021 noted that not considering these options could limit printer functionality and accessibility.
Choosing Insufficient Paper Capacity: Be aware of the paper handling capabilities of the printer. Some models may have limited paper trays, leading to frequent reloads during heavy printing tasks. Buy a printer that meets your volume demands. According to Epson’s market research, models with higher paper capacity can save time and provide more consistent productivity in a busy office environment.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Extend the Life of Your Color Laser Printer?
To extend the life of your color laser printer, regular maintenance is essential. Proper care can significantly enhance performance and durability.
- Keep the printer clean
- Use high-quality toner
- Replace parts as needed
- Update printer drivers
- Optimize printer settings
- Store paper properly
- Maintain proper humidity and temperature
Implementing these maintenance tips can improve your printer’s lifespan, efficiency, and print quality.
1. Keep the printer clean:
Keeping the printer clean involves regularly dusting the exterior and ensuring the interior is free of debris. This prevents dust accumulation, which can lead to performance issues. According to Epson, regular cleaning can prevent blockages and ensure consistent printing quality.
2. Use high-quality toner:
Using high-quality toner is crucial. Cheap toner can cause issues like poor print quality and increased wear on the printer. Manufacturers like HP suggest using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) toner cartridges as they are designed specifically for optimal results.
3. Replace parts as needed:
Replacing parts, such as the drum and fuser, is essential for maintaining print quality. Each part has a lifespan, and timely replacements can prevent further damage to the printer. Brother states that user manuals provide guidance on when to replace parts for best performance.
4. Update printer drivers:
Updating printer drivers ensures that the printer has the latest features and bug fixes. This can lead to improved performance and compatibility with newer software. The website of the manufacturer’s support team often has current driver versions available for download.
5. Optimize printer settings:
Optimizing printer settings can help extend the life of the printer. Using settings such as double-sided printing can save toner and prolong printer components’ lives. Many printers come with built-in eco modes that reduce resource usage.
6. Store paper properly:
Storing paper properly can prevent moisture absorption and curled edges. Keeping paper in a cool, dry place helps ensure it feeds smoothly through the printer, which can reduce jams and wear. Ricoh recommends using printer paper specifically designed for laser printers.
7. Maintain proper humidity and temperature:
Maintaining proper humidity and temperature in the room where the printer is located helps prevent paper damage and component wear. The ideal temperature is around 20-22 degrees Celsius, with 40-60% humidity. HP advises that extremes can lead to issues such as toner not adhering properly to the paper.