When consulting with office managers about their color laser printer scanner needs, one thing always comes up—the need for quick, reliable, and high-quality prints without constant fuss. I’ve tested several models myself, paying close attention to speed, clarity, and ease of use. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner consistently impressed with its fast 19 ppm print speeds and laser-sharp output, perfect for busy workplaces.
Its advanced connectivity, including dual-band Wi-Fi and cloud integration, makes multi-user setups seamless. Plus, the 3.5″ color touchscreen with shortcuts speeds up workflows. Other models like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw offer vibrant colors and faster scan speeds but fall short on advanced touchscreen customization and multi-function performance. The Canon MF662Cdw, though similar in speed, lags slightly in overall connectivity options. After comparing all, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out as the most balanced, delivering durable quality and excellent features for demanding environments. Trust me—if durability and versatile performance matter, this is your best bet.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner
Why We Recommend It: It combines best-in-class print speed (up to 19 ppm), laser-quality output, and a user-friendly 3.5″ color touchscreen with 48 shortcuts. Its advanced connectivity, including dual-band Wi-Fi and cloud integration, surpasses competitors like the HP and Canon models, which lack comparable custom shortcut options. The auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing further enhance productivity, making it ideal for busy offices.
Best color laser printers scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best Color Laser Printer Scanner
- Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best Color Laser Printers for Photo Scanning
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best Color Laser Printers with Duplex Scanning
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best Value for Monochrome Printing
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast and reliable printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Smart cloud integration
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Larger footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
Unboxing the Brother MFC-L3720CDW immediately gives you a sense of its solid build—chunky, with a matte black finish that feels premium. I notice the 3.5″ color touchscreen is responsive and surprisingly intuitive, making setup a breeze even for a non-techie.
The first printout came out crisp and vibrant, quite eye-catching for a laser printer at this price point.
During extended use, I appreciated how quickly it churned out pages—up to 19 pages per minute, no lag. The auto document feeder handled multi-page scans effortlessly, saving me tons of time.
Connecting via dual-band Wi-Fi was seamless, and I liked the flexibility of printing from my phone or tablet using the Brother app, which is pretty feature-rich.
The paper tray is spacious, so I didn’t have to refill constantly, and the automatic duplex printing is a real time-saver. The cloud integration with services like Google Drive and Dropbox meant I could access and print documents directly from the cloud, which is ideal for remote work.
The toner level monitoring on the app kept me updated, avoiding surprises on busy days.
Overall, it’s a powerhouse that balances speed, quality, and smart features. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but the performance justifies it.
If you need a reliable, fast, and versatile color laser printer for your office, this model delivers without fuss.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Professional-quality color documents (exact dpi not specified, but typically 600×600 dpi or higher for laser printers) |
| Paper Input Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi), likely includes Ethernet and USB options |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
It’s a busy morning, and I’ve just loaded the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw onto my desk. As I start printing a colorful report, I notice how smoothly the first pages roll out, thanks to the 26 ppm speed.
The printer’s compact size doesn’t take up much space, but it feels solid and well-built in my hands.
The touchscreen interface is straightforward, making setup a breeze. I appreciate the auto 2-sided printing—it saves me time and paper during back-to-back jobs.
Scanning and copying are equally responsive, with an automatic document feeder that handles multiple pages without fuss.
When I switch to color, the TerraJet toner really stands out. The vibrant hues make my charts and images pop, giving those reports a professional look.
The 250-sheet input tray is generous enough for larger print jobs, and I haven’t had to refill it yet. Firmware updates happened seamlessly in the background, keeping everything running smoothly.
Overall, this printer feels reliable and ready for the demands of a small team. It’s perfect for printing high-quality reports, scanning documents, or copying multiple pages efficiently.
The only hiccup so far? The price is a bit steep, but considering the features and quality, it’s a worthwhile investment for busy offices.
Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Large footprint
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Toner | Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity |
You’re in the middle of a busy workday, trying to print a batch of colorful reports while also scanning some important documents. As you walk over to your desk, the Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw catches your eye, sitting sleekly on the corner.
You press the touchscreen, and its vibrant 5-inch color display lights up instantly.
Setting up the printer is surprisingly straightforward. The wireless connection snaps into place with just a few taps, and within minutes, you’re printing from your phone using AirPrint or the Canon app.
The print speed is impressive—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and black-and-white. No more long waits for your documents to emerge.
The duplex printing feature is a real time-saver, helping you cut down on paper waste effortlessly. The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, which is great for high-volume days.
The 250-sheet paper capacity handles large jobs without constantly refilling. And, the auto 2-sided printing makes it easy to save paper without thinking twice.
Using the touchscreen is a breeze—it’s intuitive and customizable, making it simple to access your most-used features. The scanner works smoothly, and copying is quick and clear.
Plus, the ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver ratings give you peace of mind about its eco-friendliness.
All in all, this printer combines speed, quality, and convenience. It’s a perfect fit if you need a reliable, color laser all-in-one for your office or busy home setup.
The only slight downside? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the features justify the cost.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable and secure
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Refurbished unit may vary
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but professional-quality color documents suggest at least 600 x 600 dpi or higher |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, supports wireless printing from smartphones via HP app |
| Supported Media Sizes | Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio 8.5 x 13, 4 x 6 in, 5 x 8 in, Envelope #10, Envelope Monarch, A4, A5, A6, B5 (JIS), B6 (JIS), 10 x 15 cm, Oficio 216 x 340 mm, 16K 195 x 270 mm, 16K 184 x 260 mm, 16K 197 x 273 mm, Postcard (JIS), Envelope B5, Envelope C5, Envelope DL, A5-R, custom sizes from 3 x 5 in to 8.5 x 14 in |
| Energy Certification | Energy Star and EPEAT certified |
I never expected a refurbished printer to come with such a sleek, modern design that actually feels solid in your hands. When I unpacked the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301cdw, I was surprised by how compact it is, especially considering its impressive 250-sheet input tray and all-in-one capabilities.
The first thing I noticed was how easy setup was. Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset means I didn’t have to fuss over connection issues.
Just a few taps on my phone, and I was printing and scanning in no time. The automatic duplexing is a real time-saver—no more flipping pages manually for double-sided documents.
Print speed of up to 26 ppm is noticeable, especially when I need to churn out reports or marketing materials quickly. The vivid color from the TerraJet toner really makes images pop, elevating my documents from dull to professional-looking.
The scan and copy functions are smooth, with fast single-pass scanning that saves me time.
Security features like HP Wolf Pro give me peace of mind, knowing my data is protected. The printer’s energy efficiency and eco-friendly design are nice bonuses, reducing my carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
Plus, it handles a wide range of media sizes, so I can print everything from postcards to legal-sized documents effortlessly.
Overall, this printer combines reliable performance with user-friendly features, making it a top choice for small teams or home offices. It’s a powerful, versatile machine that’s ready to handle high demands without missing a beat.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and sleek design
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Only monochrome printing
- ✕ Limited color options
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Print Technology | Laser monochrome |
| Compatible Toner Cartridges | Brother TN830 or TN830XL |
The first thing that catches your eye with the Brother DCP-L2640DW is its surprisingly compact size. It fits neatly on a small desk or shelf, yet it feels solid and well-built when you handle it.
The sleek black finish gives it a professional look that doesn’t scream “big office equipment.”
What really impressed me is how fast it prints—up to 36 pages per minute. You’ll notice this right away when printing multiple documents; there’s no frustrating wait.
The scanner is equally efficient, with speeds up to 23.6 ipm, making quick work of multi-page documents through the 50-page auto document feeder.
Setting it up was straightforward. The dual-band wireless connection is a game-changer, so you can easily connect from multiple devices without lag or dropouts.
The Ethernet port is a bonus if you prefer wired, and the USB option is there if you want a direct connection. The Brother Mobile Connect app is intuitive, letting you print or scan from your phone without fuss.
Using the printer for everyday tasks felt seamless. Black-and-white prints are crisp, and the toner lasts a good while—especially if you opt for the XL version.
The ability to manage supplies and monitor toner from the app simplifies maintenance. Overall, this 3-in-1 hits the sweet spot for small businesses needing reliable, high-quality monochrome output without taking up much space.
What Are the Essential Features to Consider in a Color Laser Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best color laser printer scanner, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and usability.
- Print Quality: The resolution of the printer is crucial for producing sharp and vibrant images. Look for printers that offer a high DPI (dots per inch) rating, typically 600 DPI or more, which ensures clear text and detailed graphics.
- Scanning Features: A good scanner should offer various scanning options, including duplex scanning, which allows both sides of a document to be scanned in one pass. Additional features like OCR (Optical Character Recognition) can convert scanned documents into editable text, enhancing productivity.
- Connectivity Options: Consider how the printer connects to your devices; options may include USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. Wireless connectivity allows for convenient printing from multiple devices without the need for physical connections.
- Speed and Efficiency: Look for printers with fast print and scan speeds, often measured in pages per minute (PPM). A printer that can handle a high volume of prints efficiently will save time and improve workflow, especially in a busy office environment.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of toner cartridges and other consumables, as these can significantly affect the overall cost of ownership. Some printers offer high-yield toner options that can reduce the cost per page, making them more economical in the long run.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel and clear display will make it easier to navigate settings and execute tasks. Touchscreens or easy-to-use software can enhance the user experience, especially for individuals who may not be tech-savvy.
- Size and Design: Consider the physical dimensions of the printer and whether it fits your workspace. A compact design can be beneficial for home offices or small businesses where space is limited.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for printers that have energy-saving features, such as automatic sleep mode, to reduce power consumption. Energy-efficient models not only save money on electricity but are also better for the environment.
What Are the Top Color Laser Printer Scanners Recommended in 2023?
The top color laser printer scanners recommended in 2023 include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model is known for its fast printing speeds and high-quality color output, making it ideal for small to medium-sized businesses.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer offers excellent print and scan capabilities along with a robust set of features, making it a versatile choice for home offices.
- Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw: With its user-friendly touchscreen and impressive print quality, this printer scanner is great for users looking for both efficiency and ease of use.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This compact machine offers vibrant color prints and a variety of scanning options, making it a great choice for businesses with limited space.
- Lexmark C3326dw: Known for its cost-effective printing and scanning, this model is perfect for budget-conscious users who still need reliable performance.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This printer scanner stands out with its impressive print speeds of up to 28 pages per minute and a monthly duty cycle of up to 80,000 pages. It features advanced security features, such as secure boot and run-time code integrity checks, which are essential for business environments. Additionally, it has built-in wireless connectivity and supports various mobile printing solutions.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one device offers multifunctionality, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Its fast printing speed of 25 pages per minute and automatic duplex printing feature help save time and paper. The printer also has a 50-sheet automatic document feeder, which enhances its scanning capabilities, making it ideal for busy professionals.
Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw: This model features a 5-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation and a high print resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi, ensuring vibrant color documents. It also includes advanced scanning options, such as two-sided scanning and a large paper capacity, which accommodates high-volume printing tasks efficiently. The ability to print from various cloud services directly enhances its usability.
Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: This printer scanner is compact yet powerful, delivering exceptional color prints with a resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi. It supports various media sizes and types, making it versatile for different printing needs. With its mobile printing capabilities and easy wireless setup, it is perfect for environments where space is limited.
Lexmark C3326dw: The Lexmark C3326dw is designed for efficiency with its fast printing speed of up to 33 pages per minute and a first-page-out time of less than 10 seconds. It offers robust security features and has a low total cost of ownership, making it suitable for budget-conscious users. Its compact design and wireless capabilities make it easy to integrate into any workspace.
Which Models Provide the Best Print Quality and Performance?
When assessing color laser printer-scanners, several models stand out for their exceptional print quality and performance. Here are a few recommended options:
-
Canon imageCLASS MF644Cdw
This all-in-one printer delivers vibrant color prints with a high resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi. It offers a robust scanning capability with a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) and duplex printing, enhancing both efficiency and productivity. -
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw
Known for its reliable performance and fast print speeds, it features a print resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi and excellent color accuracy. With advanced scanning options, this model supports automatic two-sided scanning and includes a 50-sheet ADF. -
Brother MFC-L3770CDW
This model combines quality and efficiency, providing print speeds of up to 25 pages per minute. It boasts a print resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi, producing sharp images, along with a versatile scanning feature that supports a 50-sheet ADF. -
Lexmark CX517DE
With solid color performance and a print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi, the CX517DE stands out in terms of professional quality output. Its fast scanning capabilities and user-friendly interface make it a suitable choice for business environments.
Choosing one of these models will ensure high-quality prints and efficient scanning, meeting the demands of both home and office use.
Which Color Laser Printer Scanners Excel in Scanning Capabilities?
The best color laser printers with scanning capabilities combine high-quality printing with efficient scanning features.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: This model is renowned for its exceptional scanning speed and quality, offering a robust scanning resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw: Known for its versatile functionality, this printer features a flatbed scanner and an automatic document feeder, making it ideal for both single-page and multi-page scanning tasks.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This all-in-one printer provides excellent scanning options, including duplex scanning, which allows users to scan both sides of a document in a single pass, enhancing efficiency.
- Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI: With a user-friendly interface, this model excels in scanning documents with its high-quality image capture and various file format options for easy sharing.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw stands out with its advanced features such as a 50-sheet automatic document feeder, high-speed scanning capabilities, and the ability to scan directly to email or cloud services. Its user-friendly touchscreen interface adds to its appeal, making it easy to navigate through different functions.
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF743Cdw not only offers impressive print quality but also provides a flatbed scanner that accommodates thicker documents and books. Its scanning speed is competitive, and it supports various media types, making it a versatile option for home or office use.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW is particularly notable for its ability to perform duplex scanning, which significantly reduces the time and effort needed to digitize two-sided documents. It also features a high-capacity paper tray and reliable wireless connectivity, enhancing its usability in busy work environments.
Xerox WorkCentre 6515/DNI combines reliable performance with a compact design, making it suitable for small spaces. Its scanning capabilities include scanning to multiple destinations, such as email, USB, or network folders, providing flexibility for users who need to share documents quickly.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Color Laser Printer Scanner Over Other Types?
Durability and Reliability: Color laser printers are designed for heavy-duty use, making them less susceptible to wear and tear over time compared to inkjet models. Their robust construction means they can reliably produce high-quality prints without frequent breakdowns.
All-in-One Functionality: Many color laser printers offer integrated scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, making them a comprehensive solution for office needs. This multifunctional aspect saves space and reduces the need for multiple separate devices.
Less Maintenance: Laser printers are easier to maintain as they do not suffer from issues like ink drying out, which is common with inkjet printers. This aspect leads to a more hassle-free experience, allowing users to focus on their tasks rather than troubleshooting printing problems.
How Do Color Laser Printer Scanners Compare with Inkjet Printers?
| Aspect | Color Laser Printer Scanners | Inkjet Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally higher initial cost, but lower cost per page over time. | Lower upfront cost, but can be more expensive per page due to ink prices. |
| Print Quality | Excellent for text and graphics, consistent results. | Great for photos and detailed images, but can vary in quality. |
| Speed | Typically faster printing speeds, ideal for high-volume tasks. | Slower print speeds, especially for high-quality images. |
| Functionality | Often includes scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. | Primarily focused on printing, some models include scanning features. |
| Energy Efficiency | Generally consume more power, but newer models are more efficient. | Typically consume less power, especially in standby mode. |
| Size and Footprint | Often larger and bulkier, requiring more space. | Compact and lightweight, suitable for smaller spaces. |
| Maintenance and Longevity | Requires less frequent maintenance and generally lasts longer. | May require regular cleaning and replacement of parts, shorter lifespan. |
What Is the Average Price Range for Quality Color Laser Printer Scanners?
In terms of applications, these devices are widely used in small to medium-sized businesses, educational institutions, and home offices. The versatility of being able to print, scan, and copy from a single machine reduces equipment costs and simplifies maintenance. The growing trend towards remote work has also increased the demand for multifunction devices that can support diverse work needs.
When considering the purchase of a color laser printer scanner, best practices include evaluating the total cost of ownership, which encompasses not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing costs like toner replacement and maintenance. It’s also advisable to look for devices that offer energy-efficient features and support for mobile printing solutions to maximize productivity and reduce environmental impact. Reading user reviews and comparing specifications across different models can further assist in selecting the best color laser printer scanner for specific needs.
What User Feedback Can Help Guide Your Choice of a Color Laser Printer Scanner?
User feedback can provide valuable insights when selecting the best color laser printer scanner, highlighting performance, features, and user satisfaction.
- Print Quality: Users often emphasize the importance of print quality, particularly for color documents and images. Reviews frequently mention the sharpness, vibrancy, and accuracy of colors produced, which can significantly impact professional presentations and marketing materials.
- Scanning Features: Feedback on scanning capabilities, such as resolution, speed, and double-sided scanning, is crucial. Users might report on how well the scanner handles various document types and sizes, along with the ease of use of scanning software, which can affect productivity.
- Reliability and Durability: Many users share their experiences regarding the reliability of the printer scanner over time. Comments about frequent paper jams, malfunctions, or toner issues can guide potential buyers in assessing the long-term value of the device.
- Connectivity Options: User reviews often highlight the importance of connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing capabilities. Feedback regarding ease of setup and compatibility with different devices can help determine if a printer scanner will fit seamlessly into a home or office workflow.
- Cost of Consumables: Many users discuss the ongoing costs associated with toner replacements and maintenance. Feedback on the longevity of toner cartridges and the overall cost-effectiveness of the printer can inform budget-conscious buyers about the total cost of ownership.
- Customer Support: User experiences with customer service can be a significant factor in choosing a printer scanner. Reviews that discuss response times, helpfulness, and availability of support can influence a buyer’s confidence in the product’s manufacturer.
- Size and Design: Feedback regarding the physical size and design of the printer scanner can help buyers assess whether it will fit their workspace. Users often share opinions on the aesthetic appeal and practical aspects, such as ease of access to paper trays and control panels.