If you’re searching for a color laser printer for small business, you’re likely balancing quality, speed, and cost. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw stands out as the best overall thanks to its versatility and reliable performance. The Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw offers excellent print quality with robust features, while the Brother HL-L3280CDW is a great choice for compact spaces and mobile printing. However, tradeoffs often include higher upfront costs for premium models or ongoing expenses for toner. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown that will help you find the right fit for your business needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Top-performing models balance print quality with cost-efficiency, especially in toner usage.
- All-in-one features like scanning and copying are crucial for small business workflows.
- Wireless connectivity and mobile printing are common requirements, but may increase price.
- Compact designs do not necessarily sacrifice speed or quality, but may limit paper capacity.
- Long-term value depends on durability, warranty, and toner yield, not just initial price.
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Teams Needing Versatile All-in-One Functionality | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner |  | Best for Busy Offices Needing Speed and High-Quality Color | Print Speed: 26 ppm | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best Compact Model for Home or Small Office Use | Print Speed: up to 27 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | Duplex: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Focused on Speed and Reliability | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | Color: Yes | Duplex: Auto | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Monochrome Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |  | Best for High-Speed, Heavy-Duty Office Use Without Color | Print Speed: 42 ppm | Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | Wireless: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L8430CDWT Business Color Laser Printer with Wireless Networking and Dual Paper Trays |  | Best Overall for High-Volume Business Printing | Print Speed: 33 ppm | Paper Trays: 2 (250-sheet and 520-sheet), expandable to 1,340 sheets | Touchscreen: 2.7-inch color | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer with Duplex Print, Scan, Copy, Security |  | Best for Versatile Office Functions and Security | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex |  | Best for Small Offices with Moderate Volume Needs | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Paper Tray Capacity: 250 sheets | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer, Wireless, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Document Feeder, 35 PPM, 3-Year Warranty |  | Best for All-in-One Capabilities with Fast Speeds | Color: Color | Wireless: Yes | Duplex: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Versatility and Connectivity | Print Speed: 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing – 19 PPM, Includes USB Cable & Print Like a Pro eBook Bundle |  | Best Overall for Small Business with High-Quality Color Output | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Connectivity: Wireless, USB Type B, USB Type C & A | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Printer (Renewed) |  | Best for Multi-Function Office Tasks with Space-Saving Design | Technology: Laser | Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi, Auto-Reconnect | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer – White |  | Best for Fast, Reliable Color Printing in Small Offices | Print Speed: 26 PPM | Printer Type: Laser, Color, Single-Function | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| color laser printer for small business | Print Speed | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | up to 26 ppm | Wireless |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | 26 ppm | Wireless, Mobile Printing |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | up to 27 ppm | Wireless, Ethernet |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | 26 pages per minute | Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi) |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Mo | 42 ppm | — |
| Brother HL-L8430CDWT Business | 33 ppm | Wireless, NFC, mobile device printing |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | up to 33 ppm | — |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | 19 PPM | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cd | 35 PPM | — |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | 19 ppm | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB |
| Brother Color Laser Printer wi | 19 PPM | Wireless, USB Type B, USB Type C & A |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | Up to 26 PPM | Dual-band Wi-Fi, Auto-Reconnect |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C | 26 PPM | Wireless |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This model stands out for its balanced combination of speed, versatility, and convenience, making it ideal for small teams that need an all-in-one device. Its 26 ppm color print speed rivals the Canon MF662Cdw, but it adds a robust scanning and copying suite with an automatic document feeder, unlike the simpler Brother HL-L3280CDW. However, it relies on original HP cartridges with chips, and firmware updates can restrict third-party options, which might increase ongoing costs. Compared to the Canon MF465dw, it offers less fax capability but covers more ground for small office needs. Its automatic duplex printing and 250-sheet input tray enhance productivity without adding bulk.
Pros:- Fast color printing at 26 ppm with high-quality results
- All-in-one functions including scan and copy with an automatic document feeder
- Automatic duplex printing saves time and paper
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips, which can be costly
- Firmware updates may limit third-party cartridge compatibility
Best for: Small business teams requiring a reliable, versatile all-in-one color laser printer with fast speeds and duplex features
Not ideal for: Single users or very small offices with minimal printing needs, as its all-in-one features may be overkill and costlier to maintain
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Automatic Document Feeder:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
Our verdict“This is a well-rounded choice for small teams needing a reliable, multi-functional color laser printer that balances speed and convenience.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner
Compared with the HP 3301sdw, the Canon MF662Cdw offers comparable print speeds of 26 ppm but enhances usability with a 5-inch color touchscreen, making it more intuitive for frequent users. It also emphasizes energy efficiency with ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver certifications, beneficial for eco-conscious small businesses. The high-capacity toner reduces the frequency of replacements, but the toner itself tends to be more expensive, and its 250-sheet paper capacity may fall short for larger workloads. While it excels in print quality and ease of use, it lacks a fax function, which the Canon MF465dw includes. This model suits offices that prioritize print quality, speed, and user-friendly interfaces.
Pros:- Fast print speeds with consistent high-quality color output
- Intuitive 5-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation
- High-capacity toner reduces replacement frequency
Cons:- Higher cost for toner replacements over time
- Limited to 250-sheet paper capacity for large workloads
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses that need fast, high-quality color printing with easy-to-use controls
Not ideal for: Offices with very high-volume printing needs or those requiring fax functionality, as it lacks fax support
- Print Speed:26 ppm
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Printing
- Display:5-inch Color Touchscreen
- Paper Capacity:250-sheet cassette, 1-sheet multipurpose tray
- Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for busy offices that value speed, ease of use, and premium color quality, but not for very high-volume printing.”
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
This compact Brother model excels for users who need a space-efficient printer that still delivers solid color output and decent speed—up to 27 ppm. Its 2.7-inch touchscreen allows direct printing from cloud services, a handy feature not always present in smaller units like the HP 3301sdw. Compared to the Canon MF662Cdw, it’s more compact but offers slightly fewer features, especially lacking a high-capacity toner option. Its automatic duplex printing helps save paper, but being designed primarily for small or home offices, it may struggle with larger workloads or heavy daily use. The setup for wireless and cloud printing can be a bit involved for less tech-savvy users.
Pros:- Highly compact and space-efficient design
- Fast print speeds of up to 27 ppm
- Print directly from cloud apps via touchscreen
Cons:- Limited to small office or home use; not ideal for high workloads
- Setup for wireless/cloud printing can be complex
Best for: Small offices or home users seeking a space-saving, easy-to-use color laser printer with wireless and cloud capabilities
Not ideal for: High-volume or busy office environments where larger paper capacity and toner replacements are priorities
- Print Speed:up to 27 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Duplex:Automatic
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Includes:2-month trial subscription
Our verdict“This model suits small or home offices seeking a compact, easy-to-use color laser printer with modern connectivity features.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
The HP 3201dw is designed for small teams that need reliable, high-speed color printing. It offers a competitive 26 ppm speed, similar to the Canon MF662Cdw, but emphasizes ease of use and wireless stability with a dual-band Wi-Fi feature. Its 250-sheet input tray keeps pace with daily needs, and auto duplex adds efficiency, though it works only with original HP cartridges equipped with chips or circuitry, which can be a drawback for cost-conscious users. Firmware updates may be necessary to maintain compatibility, adding a layer of maintenance. While it lacks advanced touchscreen controls, its straightforward interface and reliable wireless connection make it a practical choice for busy small teams.
Pros:- High-quality color printing with vivid results
- Fast speeds of 26 ppm suited for office workflows
- Auto duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Works only with original HP cartridges with chips
- Firmware updates may be needed for ongoing compatibility
Best for: Small teams needing dependable color laser printing with fast throughput and straightforward operation
Not ideal for: Offices on tight budgets or those preferring third-party cartridges, due to cartridge restrictions
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- Color:Yes
- Duplex:Auto
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi)
Our verdict“Ideal for small teams prioritizing speed and reliable wireless operation over cartridge flexibility and low cost.”
Canon imageCLASS MF465dw II Monochrome Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
While not a color option, the Canon MF465dw II offers exceptional speed at 42 ppm, far surpassing the other models in this list, making it suitable for high-volume environments. It covers all essential functions—print, copy, scan, fax—making it a true office workhorse. Its 5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and wireless support ensures easy integration into small office setups. However, its monochrome output limits flexibility for businesses needing color documents, and it lacks a high-capacity paper tray, which could lead to frequent refills. This model makes the most sense for offices where speed and multifunctionality outweigh color capabilities, and high-volume printing is a priority.
Pros:- Very fast printing at 42 ppm for high-volume work
- All-in-one functionality with fax, scan, and copy
- Wireless setup and mobile device printing support
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, not suitable for color needs
- Lack of a high-capacity paper tray may increase refilling requirements
Best for: Offices that require fast monochrome printing, scanning, copying, and faxing with minimal need for color output
Not ideal for: Businesses needing color documents or those with high-volume color printing needs, as it only prints in black and white
- Print Speed:42 ppm
- Functions:Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Touchscreen:5-inch
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for high-speed monochrome tasks in busy offices that do not require color output.”
Brother HL-L8430CDWT Business Color Laser Printer with Wireless Networking and Dual Paper Trays
This model stands out for its impressive speed of 33 ppm and expandable paper capacity, making it a reliable choice for busy offices that need high-volume output without frequent refills. Compared with the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, it offers similar performance but with a focus on higher paper capacity, though at a higher initial cost and a larger footprint. Its built-in security and mobile printing support address modern business needs, but toner replacements can add up financially. This printer is ideal for small businesses that prioritize speed and capacity over compact size.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 33 ppm
- High-capacity paper trays expandable to 1,340 sheets
- Strong security features including NFC badge authentication
- Energy-efficient with ENERGY STAR certification
Cons:- High initial purchase price
- Large physical footprint may require dedicated space
- Toner replacement costs can be substantial
Best for: Small businesses with high printing demands and limited space for bulky equipment
Not ideal for: Startups or home offices with tight space or lower volume needs, due to its size and cost
- Print Speed:33 ppm
- Paper Trays:2 (250-sheet and 520-sheet), expandable to 1,340 sheets
- Touchscreen:2.7-inch color
- Max Paper Capacity:1,340 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, NFC, mobile device printing
- Security:Triple layer security, NFC badge authentication
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for established small businesses that need fast, high-volume color printing with robust security features.”
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer with Duplex Print, Scan, Copy, Security
This all-in-one model is ideal for offices needing high-speed printing (up to 33 ppm) combined with comprehensive scanning, copying, and faxing. Its 7-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation, though setup can be complex for less experienced users. Compared to the Brother HL-L8430CDWT, it offers more versatile functionality but at a similar price point, making it better suited for those who need multiple functions in one device. The auto document feeder and cloud integration boost productivity, yet the cost of high-yield cartridges might impact ongoing expenses. It’s best for small teams that require all-in-one capabilities with security.
Pros:- Fast print speed of up to 33 ppm
- All-in-one functionality including scan, copy, and fax
- Advanced security features like NFC card reader
- Large 7-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation
Cons:- High upfront cost
- Setup can be complicated for some users
- High-yield toner cartridges are expensive
Best for: Small offices or teams needing a secure, multi-function printer with fast color output
Not ideal for: Single-user setups or very tight budgets, given its higher initial cost and complexity
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Touchscreen:7-inch color
- Security:Triple layer security, NFC card reader
- Cartridges:Standard yield: 3,000 black / 1,800 color; High yield: 7,500 black / 6,500 color
Our verdict“This model is perfect for small teams that need a secure, versatile, high-performance color laser printer with multiple functions.”
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex
This compact printer excels at delivering high-quality color output at a manageable speed of 19 ppm, making it suitable for small businesses that handle moderate print volumes. Its 250-sheet paper tray reduces interruptions and the automatic duplex feature promotes efficiency. Compared with the larger Brother HL-L8430CDWT, it sacrifices capacity and speed for a smaller footprint and affordability, but lacks scanning or copying functions, limiting its versatility. The cost of toner can be a concern for frequent printing, especially since it’s laser-only. It’s a good fit for those prioritizing space-saving design and straightforward color printing.
Pros:- Vibrant color output
- Automatic duplex printing
- Wireless and mobile compatibility
- Compact size fits small spaces
Cons:- No scanning or copying functions
- Potentially higher toner costs for frequent use
- Limited to laser printing only
Best for: Small businesses needing reliable color printing with minimal multifunctionality
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring scanning, copying, or high-volume printing, due to its limited capacity and features
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Paper Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Wireless Connectivity:Yes
- Mobile Compatibility:Yes
- Functionality:Print only
Our verdict“Ideal for small offices that mainly need quick, crisp color prints without additional multifunction features.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer, Wireless, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Document Feeder, 35 PPM, 3-Year Warranty
This Canon model brings fast printing at 35 ppm and all-in-one features, including scan, copy, fax, and duplex printing, making it suitable for dynamic small offices. Its wireless connectivity and auto document feeder streamline workflow, but the lack of detailed pricing info and potentially complex setup may deter some users. Compared to the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, it offers a slightly higher print speed and a generous 3-year warranty, adding long-term value. It’s best for those who need a comprehensive multifunction device with quick turnaround times.
Pros:- Fast print speed of 35 ppm
- All-in-one with scan, copy, fax
- Wireless connectivity for easy sharing
- 3-year warranty adds peace of mind
Cons:- No pricing details available
- Setup may be complicated for some users
- Lack of detailed specs on toner costs
Best for: Small businesses seeking a fast, reliable multifunction printer with extended warranty coverage
Not ideal for: Users with tight budgets or those unfamiliar with complex setup procedures
- Color:Color
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex:Yes
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Print Speed:35 PPM
- Warranty:3 Year Limited
Our verdict“This printer suits small offices that prioritize speed, multifunctionality, and long-term warranty coverage.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
This model balances speed of 19 ppm with multiple functions—including scan, copy, and fax—making it a versatile choice for busy small offices. Its 3.5-inch color touchscreen with cloud integration simplifies workflow, but its bulky size may require dedicated space, and toner costs could be high for frequent users. Compared to the Brother HL-L8430CDWT, it offers more multifunctionality but with a slower print speed and a slightly larger footprint. It’s ideal for teams that need all-in-one capabilities with flexible connectivity.
Pros:- Fast laser output at 19 ppm
- Includes scan, copy, and fax functions
- Touchscreen with cloud service integration
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi and USB
Cons:- Size may be too large for limited spaces
- Toner replacements can be costly
- Setup might be complex for new users
Best for: Small business teams requiring integrated printing, scanning, copying, and faxing with easy cloud access
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or those needing ultra-compact devices, due to its size and multifunctional complexity
- Print Speed:19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
Our verdict“This printer fits small offices that need a capable, multifunction laser device with strong connectivity options.”
Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing – 19 PPM, Includes USB Cable & Print Like a Pro eBook Bundle
This Brother model stands out for its combination of professional-quality color printing and user-friendly features tailored for small businesses. Compared to the Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw, it offers slightly faster printing at 19 PPM and a larger paper capacity, making it more suitable for higher volume needs. However, its toner yields are lower, which could lead to more frequent replacements, and initial setup might challenge less tech-savvy users. Its wireless and mobile compatibility ensures seamless printing from various devices, while the large paper tray reduces downtime during busy periods. This printer is ideal for small offices that prioritize vibrant graphics and high-volume output but can tolerate some inconvenience from toner replacements and setup complexity.
Pros:- Vibrant, high-quality color printing suitable for marketing materials
- Fast print speed of 19 pages per minute improves workflow
- Large 250-sheet paper capacity reduces frequent refills
- Wireless and mobile device compatibility for flexible printing
Cons:- Lower toner yields require more frequent cartridge replacements
- Initial setup can be complex for users unfamiliar with network configurations
Best for: Small business owners needing vibrant, high-volume color printing with wireless flexibility
Not ideal for: Startups or solo entrepreneurs with limited technical experience or tight budgets due to potential setup challenges and toner costs
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB Type B, USB Type C & A
- Included Toner:Starter cartridges (Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow)
- Additional Accessories:Power cord, quick setup guide, safety guide, USB cable
Our verdict“This Brother printer is an excellent choice for small businesses that need reliable, vibrant color output with high volume capacity and are prepared for some setup effort.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Printer (Renewed)
This HP model excels in combining printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into a compact form, making it ideal for small offices needing all-in-one functionality. Compared to the Canon MF665Cdw, it offers slightly faster printing at up to 26 PPM and includes fax as a standard feature, boosting versatility. Its space-saving design is perfect for tight environments, but as a renewed unit, it might come with limited warranty or reliability concerns. Its dual-band Wi-Fi with auto-reconnect simplifies wireless setup, and Auto-On/Auto-Off features enhance energy efficiency. While it may not deliver the photo quality of dedicated photo printers, it handles everyday color documents reliably. This choice is suited for small teams requiring multi-function capabilities in a limited space but might be less ideal for users who need assured long-term durability.
Pros:- Up to 26 PPM printing speed accelerates workflow
- All-in-one functions including fax, scan, and copy increase versatility
- Compact design fits small office spaces
- Energy-efficient Auto-On/Auto-Off technology
Cons:- Renewed status may limit warranty and future reliability
- Setup could be complex for non-technical users
- Lacks detailed info on color accuracy and photo printing quality
Best for: Small business teams needing a reliable, all-in-one color laser printer with space constraints
Not ideal for: Businesses focused on high-volume photo printing or those wary of renewed equipment due to warranty limits
- Technology:Laser
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Auto-Reconnect
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Print Speed:Up to 26 PPM
- Energy Efficiency:Auto-On/Auto-Off
- Design:Compact, space-saving
Our verdict“This HP MFP is suited for small offices that need a space-efficient, versatile device capable of handling multiple document tasks efficiently, with some caution around renewed units.”
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer – White
The Canon LBP646Cdw offers consistent, rapid color printing at 26 pages per minute, making it well-suited for small businesses with high printing demands. Its automatic duplex printing supports efficient paper use, and its wireless setup is straightforward, especially for users familiar with Canon’s ecosystem. Compared to the Brother B0H8QN5X59, it provides similar speed but focuses solely on printing, lacking scanning or copying capabilities, which could be a drawback for offices needing multifunctionality. Its high-capacity toner ensures fewer replacements, reducing downtime. However, the absence of an Ethernet port and limited advanced features mean it’s best for straightforward printing needs. This printer is ideal for those prioritizing quick, high-quality color output over multifunctional features or advanced photo printing.
Pros:- Prints up to 26 ppm in color and monochrome for rapid output
- Automatic duplex printing conserves paper
- Easy wireless setup and mobile printing compatibility
- High-capacity toner yields more pages between replacements
Cons:- Limited to printing only, no scanning or copying
- No Ethernet port for wired network connections
- Basic features without advanced options or photo capabilities
Best for: Small businesses requiring fast, reliable color printing without multifunction needs
Not ideal for: Offices needing scanning, copying, or faxing functions or those requiring Ethernet connectivity
- Print Speed:26 PPM
- Printer Type:Laser, Color, Single-Function
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Energy Star:Yes
Our verdict“This Canon printer is best for small offices that need quick, high-quality color printing with minimal fuss and no multifunction requirements.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized printers that offer fast, high-quality color output suitable for small business environments, with reliable wireless connectivity and ease of use. Cost of ownership, including toner yield and maintenance, was also a key factor. The ranking reflects not only raw features but how well each model balances performance with affordability over time, ensuring that small business owners get the best return on their investment.Factors to Consider When Choosing Color Laser Printer For Small Business
Choosing the right color laser printer for small business requires considering multiple factors beyond just initial cost. It’s essential to evaluate print volume needs, ongoing expenses, and the features that streamline your workflow. Smaller businesses often face the challenge of balancing affordability with durability and functionality, so understanding these tradeoffs can save money and frustration in the long run.Print Volume and Speed
Assess your typical monthly print volume to determine the necessary speed and capacity. A printer with a higher ppm (pages per minute) improves efficiency for busy periods but may come with a higher price. For small businesses with moderate printing needs, a model with a reliable speed of around 20-30 ppm usually strikes a good balance. Avoid overpaying for high-volume features if your actual usage is lower, but also beware of under-powered units that slow down productivity.
Cost of Consumables
While initial purchase price matters, the ongoing costs of toner cartridges significantly impact total ownership. Look for models with high-yield toner options to reduce frequent replacements. Some printers have refill alerts or easy toner replacement processes, which can save time. Avoid models with proprietary or overly expensive toner to keep expenses predictable and manageable for your small business budget.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and Ethernet options are often essential for small teams working across multiple devices. Check compatibility with your existing devices and software ecosystems. A model with versatile connectivity options ensures seamless integration, reducing setup headaches. Remember, some models include Wi-Fi Direct or NFC for quick printing from mobile devices, but these features can add to the cost.
Size, Design, and Paper Handling
Space-saving designs are vital for smaller offices. Consider the footprint of the printer and whether it fits comfortably on your desk or shelf. Additionally, look for models with dual paper trays or automatic document feeders to enhance workflow efficiency. Keep in mind that compact printers might have lower paper capacity, leading to more frequent refills, which could be disruptive during busy periods.
Durability and Support
Small business printers should withstand frequent use without frequent breakdowns. Check manufacturer warranties, customer support, and availability of replacement parts. A model with a reputation for reliability and good after-sales service can prevent downtime and costly repairs. Investing in a slightly higher-priced unit with better support often pays off over years of dependable operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the true cost of ownership for a color laser printer?
To determine the true cost of ownership, consider the initial purchase price, toner cartridge prices, and expected toner yield. Divide the toner cost by the number of pages it can print to get the cost per page. Also, factor in maintenance and potential repairs over the printer’s lifespan. This comprehensive view helps ensure your small business budget accounts for ongoing expenses, not just the sticker price.
Are all-in-one printers worth the extra cost for small businesses?
All-in-one models provide scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, which can streamline workflows and reduce the need for multiple devices. For small teams that need these features regularly, the added convenience justifies the higher investment. However, if your business only needs occasional printing, a dedicated printer may be more cost-effective, as all-in-ones can sometimes be bulkier or slower.
What is the best way to ensure my printer stays reliable over time?
Regular maintenance, like cleaning the paper path and updating firmware, extends the lifespan of your printer. Choosing a model with a good warranty and reliable customer support is also key. Additionally, investing in high-yield toner cartridges reduces the frequency of replacements, which can lower the risk of downtime and keep your workflow smooth.
Should I prioritize speed or print quality for my small business?
The decision depends on your primary needs. If your work involves frequent printing of marketing materials or presentations, prioritize quality. For high-volume daily printing, speed becomes more important to maintain efficiency. Many models strike a balance, offering high-quality output at decent speeds, but you should evaluate your specific workflow to choose accordingly.
How important is wireless connectivity for small business printers?
Wireless connectivity adds significant flexibility, allowing multiple users to print from various devices without physical connections. It supports remote printing and mobile device integration, which are common in small businesses. However, a wired Ethernet connection might offer more stability in environments with network congestion, so consider your office setup when choosing features.
Conclusion
For small business owners seeking the best all-around performance, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw provides a versatile, reliable solution. If you want the best value without sacrificing quality, the Brother HL-L3280CDW offers impressive features at a lower cost. Those looking for a premium experience with advanced features and faster speeds should consider the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II. Beginners or businesses with light printing needs will benefit from compact, easy-to-use options like the Brother HL-L3220CDW. Ultimately, your choice depends on your volume, budget, and whether multifunction features are essential for your workflow.
