Finding the right all-in-one laser printer for a small business can be challenging, as balancing cost, performance, and features often involves tough choices. The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw stands out as the best overall pick thanks to its reliable performance and comprehensive feature set. For those prioritizing color printing, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw offers excellent versatility, while the Brother MFC-L2820DW provides a compact design at a more affordable price. Each option has tradeoffs, such as higher costs for premium models or limited color options in monochrome units. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the best fit for your small business needs.
Key Takeaways
- The best overall models balance speed, print quality, and low operational costs, making them suitable for frequent office use.
- Color printing features significantly impact price and maintenance, so consider whether color is essential for your business.
- Compact designs are available but often come with tradeoffs in paper capacity or speed, suitable for smaller workspaces.
- Subscription plans or toner management features can reduce ongoing costs but may add complexity or upfront expense.
- Security features and network connectivity are increasingly important for safeguarding sensitive business documents.
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Best-for-Office
This HP LaserJet Pro 3101fdw stands out for its combination of speed, security, and comprehensive features tailored for small office environments. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, it offers faster print speeds of up to 35 ppm and includes built-in security features like HP Wolf Pro Security, which is essential for protecting sensitive data. Its auto duplex printing and fast scanning with an automatic document feeder streamline workflows efficiently. The device is easy to connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Bluetooth, supporting multiple devices seamlessly. While its security is a major plus, the setup can be more complex, and the initial cost is higher than some competitors. This pick makes the most sense for teams up to 7 people needing reliable security and fast throughput without sacrificing versatility.
Pros:- Fast printing speeds up to 35 ppm for high productivity
- Robust security features including HP Wolf Pro Security
- Auto duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Supports wireless, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connections
Cons:- Higher initial purchase price compared to simpler models
- Setup and configuration can be complex for non-technical users
- Larger footprint at 16.5″D x 12.3″W x 15.7″H
Best for: Small businesses or workgroups in larger companies needing secure, fast, all-in-one functionality.
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or very small offices with minimal printing needs, as the feature set may be overkill and cost-prohibitive.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Max Print Speed:35 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Maximum Print Resolution:1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Scan Type:Flatbed, ADF
Bottom line: Ideal for small teams requiring a secure, fast, all-in-one laser printer with comprehensive connectivity options.
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer with Copy, Scan and Fax, Duplex, Black & White | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial
This Brother MFC-L2820DW offers a compelling balance of affordability and efficiency, making it perfect for small offices on a budget. Compared to the HP LaserJet Pro 3101fdw, it provides slightly slower printing at up to 34 ppm but excels in space-saving design and simple setup. Its 250-sheet paper tray and 50-page auto document feeder support high-volume tasks with minimal refills. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, ensuring flexible device integration. The 2.7″ touchscreen simplifies operation, and the device’s energy-efficient features help control costs. However, it lacks advanced security features found in the HP model, and its print speed is marginally slower. This printer is best suited for small teams needing reliable monochrome printing without extensive security concerns.
Pros:- Affordable price point with high-volume capacity
- Compact design fits small office spaces
- Easy to set up with intuitive touchscreen
- Flexible connectivity options
Cons:- Lacks advanced security features
- Slightly slower than some competitors at 34 ppm
- Limited to monochrome printing
Best for: Small business teams seeking a reliable, budget-friendly monochrome all-in-one with easy setup and high-volume capacity.
Not ideal for: Organizations that require advanced security or color printing, as this model focuses solely on monochrome functions.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Max Print Speed:34 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Maximum Print Resolution:1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Scan Type:Flatbed, ADF
Bottom line: Best for small offices needing a cost-effective, space-efficient monochrome multifunction printer with high capacity.
HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Best-for-Office
This HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw is distinguished by its fast print and scan speeds, making it suitable for busy small offices. It delivers up to 28 ppm for printing and 24 ppm for scanning, which is slightly slower than the HP 3101fdw but still effective for high-volume tasks. Its duplex printing feature reduces paper use, and the self-reset dual-band Wi-Fi ensures reliable wireless connectivity. While security features are solid, they are not as comprehensive as those in the HP 3101fdw. The device’s compact size saves space, but it’s best suited for environments where speed and efficiency are priorities over advanced security. It’s ideal for small teams handling frequent document workflows that benefit from quick turnaround times.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds
- Duplex printing reduces paper consumption
- Self-reset dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connection
- Compact footprint suitable for small offices
Cons:- Less security features compared to higher-end models
- Limited to monochrome output
- Slightly slower than some competitors in speed
Best for: Offices that need rapid black-and-white printing and scanning with reliable wireless connectivity.
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring extensive security or color printing, as this model is monochrome and less security-focused.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Max Print Speed:28 ppm
- Scan Speed:24 ppm
- Paper Size:Legal (8.5 x 14 inches)
- Maximum Sheet Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Bottom line: Great for small offices that prioritize speed and efficiency in monochrome document handling.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer with Duplex Print, Scan, Copy, Low-Cost Printing, and Advanced Security Features
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW is the top choice for businesses needing high-quality color output alongside robust security. It offers fast speeds of up to 33 ppm in both color and black & white, making it suitable for demanding environments. Its advanced scanning features include high-speed duplex scanning and the ability to create searchable, editable documents, surpassing the monochrome-focused models like the Brother MFC-L2820DW. The device includes security features such as triple-layer protection and NFC badge authentication, ideal for enterprises handling sensitive data. While it’s larger and more expensive than basic models, its high-yield toner options and low-cost printing capabilities make it a cost-effective solution over time. This model is perfect for busy, security-conscious offices requiring professional color output.
Pros:- High-speed printing and scanning at 33 ppm
- Lifelike color output with sharp black text
- Triple-layer security and NFC badge authentication
- Supports high-yield toner options for lower operating costs
Cons:- Larger footprint, requiring more space
- Higher purchase price than monochrome models
- Complex setup for advanced security features
Best for: Medium to large offices that need color printing with high security and fast performance.
Not ideal for: Solo users or small offices with minimal color needs and budget constraints, as it is larger and more costly.
- Printer Type:Color Laser
- Max Print Speed:33 ppm
- Maximum Copy Resolution:2400 x 600 dpi
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Bottom line: Best for security-focused offices needing fast, high-quality color printing with advanced document management.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan, Duplex, Mobile, Black & White | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact and budget-friendly monochrome laser printer that covers essential office functions. It’s ideal for very small businesses or home offices where space is limited and color printing is unnecessary. With print speeds up to 36 ppm and a 50-page auto document feeder, it handles high-volume tasks efficiently. Its connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, making integration straightforward. The device features duplex printing to save paper and supports mobile printing through Brother’s app, adding convenience. However, it lacks advanced security features and color output, limiting its use in more security-sensitive or color-demanding environments. It’s best suited for startups or small teams focused on basic document printing and scanning.
Pros:- Compact and space-efficient design
- Fast printing up to 36 ppm
- Affordable with high-volume capacity
- Supports mobile and wireless printing
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- No advanced security features
- Basic display and interface
Best for: Very small businesses or home offices seeking a simple, reliable monochrome multifunction printer at a low cost.
Not ideal for: Offices needing color printing or advanced security features, as this model is solely monochrome and basic in security.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Max Print Speed:36 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Maximum Print Resolution:2400 x 600 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Scan Type:Flatbed, ADF
Bottom line: Perfect for small-scale, budget-conscious setups that need dependable monochrome printing without extra features.
Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, High-Speed 50 ppm, Wireless & Ethernet
This Brother model stands out for its exceptional speed, printing up to 50 pages per minute, which surpasses many competitors like the HP LaserJet Pro 4101fdw. Its high-yield toner cartridge significantly reduces operational costs, making it ideal for busy workgroups. The auto document feeder with dual-sided scanning enhances productivity, especially when handling large batches of documents. The large paper capacity and expandability support growing businesses, while security features help protect sensitive data. However, its size and weight require dedicated space, and the initial investment is substantial. Compared to the HP MFP 3101sdw, this Brother offers faster output and higher capacity but at a higher price point and larger footprint. This pick makes the most sense for high-volume environments needing speed and scalability, willing to invest upfront for long-term savings.
Pros:- Speeds of up to 50 ppm boost productivity
- High-yield toner reduces per-page costs
- Auto duplex scanning and copying enhance efficiency
- Expandable paper capacity supports business growth
Cons:- Heavy and large footprint requires dedicated space
- High initial purchase price
- Toner replacement cost can be significant over time
Best for: High-volume small business offices or busy workgroups needing fast, reliable printing and scanning.
Not ideal for: Home offices with limited space or infrequent printing needs due to its size and cost.
- Print Speed:50 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets + expandable
- Connectivity:Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Scanner Capacity:70-page auto document feeder
- Print Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Weight:38.3 pounds
- Display Type:5″ Color Touchscreen
- Controller Type:Single processor
Bottom line: This is a top choice for offices with heavy printing demands that prioritize speed and scalability over compactness.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer with Fax
This HP LaserJet Pro model provides a balance of speed and versatility, with a solid print rate of 42 pages per minute that outperforms the HP MFP 3101sdw. Its multifunction capabilities include fax, which is a rare feature among competitors like Brother MFC-L2820DW, making it suitable for varied office tasks. The automatic duplexer and 70-page auto document feeder streamline large-volume workflows. Its security features and mobile printing options cater well to small to medium-sized teams that need reliable, secure connectivity. However, the size and cost are notable considerations, and the toner yield, while adequate, may lead to higher ongoing costs compared to some other models. In comparison with the Brother MFC-L5915DW, this HP offers more features like fax but at a higher price and slightly lower speed. It suits teams that need multifunctionality with reliable performance, and are comfortable with a larger footprint and higher initial spend.
Pros:- Includes fax functionality for versatile office tasks
- Fast printing at 42 ppm
- Automatic duplexing saves paper
- Wireless and wired connectivity options
Cons:- Larger footprint requires ample space
- Higher cost compared to simpler models
- Toner replacement can be costly over time
Best for: Small to medium teams requiring multifunctional capabilities including fax, with reliable wireless connectivity.
Not ideal for: Single-user home offices or those prioritizing speed over multifunction features due to size and cost.
- Print Speed:42 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Scanner Capacity:Auto document feeder
- Print Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Weight:33 pounds
- Display Type:Color LCD
Bottom line: Ideal for teams needing a multifunction printer with fax, balancing speed and feature set, despite size and cost considerations.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Printer with Scanner & Duplex
This HP model excels in producing vibrant, professional-quality color documents, which sets it apart from monochrome-only options like the Brother MFC-L5915DW. Its print speed of 26 ppm balances color quality with efficiency, suitable for marketing or client presentations. The automatic duplexing and 250-sheet tray support sizable workloads, and the integrated scanner with auto document feeder streamlines scanning large batches. Security features and compatibility with multiple devices make it a dependable choice for small teams. However, the higher cost of color toner and slightly slower print speeds compared to monochrome models are tradeoffs. While the Brother MFC-L2820DW offers similar functionality in monochrome, this HP is best for offices needing compelling color output to enhance business communications. It’s perfect for creative or marketing teams that want quality and efficiency in a compact package.
Pros:- Vivid, professional color output
- Automatic duplexing and large paper capacity
- Reliable wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Fast scanning with auto document feeder
Cons:- Higher toner costs for color printing
- Slower speed than monochrome counterparts
- Slightly larger and heavier due to color components
Best for: Small offices needing high-quality color printing for marketing, presentations, or client reports.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious offices or those with primarily text-based documents due to higher toner costs and slower speeds.
- Print Speed:26 ppm color
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Scanner Capacity:Auto document feeder
- Print Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Functions:Print, scan, copy
- Weight:Approx. 22 pounds
- Display Type:Color touchscreen
Bottom line: This is an excellent choice for small teams that require impressive color quality alongside multifunction capabilities, accepting the higher operating costs.
HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer, Duplex, with Scanner & Copy
This HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw offers reliable, high-quality black-and-white printing at 35 pages per minute, which is slightly slower than the Brother MFC-L5915DW but still efficient for small teams. Its compact size and straightforward setup make it ideal for space-constrained offices or home use, especially compared to larger models like the HP 4101fdw. The automatic duplex printing and 250-sheet tray support moderate workloads, and the scanner features an auto document feeder, improving document handling. Its simple control interface via app and network connections provides ease of use. However, it lacks advanced security features and color options, making it less suitable for offices that require color or high-security printing. Compared to the Brother model, this HP is more affordable and space-efficient but sacrifices speed and expandability. It’s best for small teams focused on monochrome tasks in limited spaces.
Pros:- Compact design fits small spaces
- Reliable 35 ppm black-and-white speed
- Auto duplexing saves paper
- Easy wireless setup and operation
Cons:- Slower than larger enterprise models
- Limited to monochrome output
- No advanced security features
Best for: Small teams or home offices needing dependable monochrome printing with minimal space requirements.
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or high-volume document handling in a larger-scaled environment.
- Print Speed:35 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
- Scanner Capacity:Auto document feeder
- Print Resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Functions:Print, scan, copy
- Weight:11.9 pounds
- Display Type:LCD
Bottom line: A practical, space-saving monochrome printer ideal for small teams with moderate printing needs and tight spaces.
HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer, Scan, Copy, Fast & Compact
This HP M140w model is ideal for the smallest offices or home setups, with a compact design that easily fits on small desks or shelves. Its 21 pages per minute speed is lower than the Brother or larger HP models but still sufficient for light daily tasks. The straightforward wireless setup and mobile printing compatibility make it very user-friendly, especially for one to three users. The scanner and copier functions are basic but effective, and the single tray holds enough paper for small workloads. While it lacks advanced features like duplexing or security, its affordability, low weight, and ease of use make it perfect for minimalistic environments. Compared to the HP 3101sdw, this model sacrifices speed and capacity for a smaller footprint and lower price. It’s best for very small teams or individuals with limited space and modest printing needs.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces
- Easy wireless setup
- Fast enough for light use
- Affordable and lightweight
Cons:- Lower print speed (21 ppm)
- Limited capacity (99 sheets)
- No duplex or advanced security features
Best for: Single users or very small teams needing basic monochrome printing in tight spaces.
Not ideal for: Offices with higher print volumes, color needs, or security requirements.
- Print Speed:21 ppm
- Paper Capacity:99 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
- Functions:Print, scan, copy
- Weight:11.9 pounds
- Display Type:LCD
Bottom line: A compact, budget-friendly monochrome printer perfect for space-limited environments with light printing demands.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier and Fax | Auto Duplex and 250-Sheet Capacity | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial
This Brother model is a strong choice for small businesses that need vibrant color output along with reliable multifunction capabilities. Compared with the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, it offers faster print speeds up to 19 ppm and a larger paper capacity, making it ideal for higher-volume environments. Its advanced connectivity options—including dual-band Wi-Fi and USB 2.0—support seamless device integration, while the 3.5″ color touchscreen simplifies workflow management. The inclusion of a 50-sheet auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing reduces manual handling, boosting productivity. However, the color laser technology can be more costly in toner refill expenses compared to monochrome options like the Brother MFC-L2820DW. Also, the larger footprint may be less suitable for very tight spaces. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for small businesses prioritizing vibrant color and high throughput, willing to handle slightly higher toner costs.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 19 ppm for both color and black & white
- Large 250-sheet paper tray reduces refill frequency
- Intuitive 3.5″ color touchscreen with shortcuts for productivity
Cons:- Higher toner costs due to color laser technology
- Bulkier footprint may not suit small or cluttered spaces
Best for: Small business owners needing fast, high-capacity color printing with workflow automation
Not ideal for: Startups or home offices with very limited space or minimal color printing needs
- Print Speed:Up to 19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Display:3.5-inch color touchscreen
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Document Feeder:50-sheet auto document feeder
Bottom line: This model suits established small businesses that require high-volume, vibrant color printing with robust connectivity and workflow features.
How We Picked
The selection process prioritized performance, reliability, and ease of use, which are essential for small business environments. We evaluated each model’s print and scan speeds, print quality, cost of operation, and connectivity options. Durability and build quality were also key factors, ensuring the printers can handle daily use without frequent breakdowns. Cost-effectiveness was analyzed over the long term, considering toner prices and available subscription plans. The ranking reflects a balance between features, value, and suitability for different business sizes and needs, with top picks offering the best mix of these qualities.Factors to Consider When Choosing All In One Laser Printer For Small Business
Choosing the right all-in-one laser printer for your small business involves considering several key factors. While initial price matters, long-term operational costs, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing setup often influence the overall value. Considering these broader aspects can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure your investment supports your business growth effectively.Performance and Speed
For busy small offices, speed is critical. Look for printers with high pages-per-minute (PPM) ratings, especially if you frequently print large batches. A slower printer can bottleneck workflow, increasing wait times and reducing productivity. However, remember that high speed often comes with a higher price tag and potentially more noise, so balance speed with your workspace environment.
Cost of Operation
While initial purchase price is important, ongoing costs like toner replacement and maintenance significantly impact value. Some models have higher-yield toner options or subscription plans that lower per-page costs, making them more economical over time. Be cautious of cheap toner cartridges that may damage the printer or produce lower-quality prints, leading to higher long-term expenses.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wireless and mobile printing capabilities are often must-haves for small businesses. Ensure your chosen model supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile apps for seamless integration with your devices. Compatibility with popular office software and security protocols is also vital to protect sensitive data. Overlooking these features can lead to frustration and additional costs down the line.
Size and Paper Capacity
Space constraints are common in small offices, so consider the printer’s footprint. Compact models save space but may have lower paper capacity and slower speeds. Larger-capacity units are better suited for frequent printing but require more room. Assess your typical print volume to choose a model that balances size with productivity needs.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
User-friendly interfaces, straightforward setup, and easy toner replacement are crucial for minimizing downtime. Some printers offer features like automatic duplexing and intuitive touchscreen controls that simplify daily operations. Beware of models with complicated maintenance procedures, which can increase downtime and frustration, especially for less tech-savvy users.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a laser printer is suitable for my small business?
If your business requires frequent, high-volume printing with sharp text quality, a laser printer is a reliable choice. They offer faster speeds and lower per-page costs compared to inkjets, making them suitable for busy environments. However, if you need vibrant color images or photo printing, a color laser or inkjet might be better. Consider your typical print volume and document types to determine if a laser printer meets your needs.
Are wireless connectivity features worth paying extra for?
Wireless capabilities offer significant convenience by enabling printing from multiple devices without physical connections. If your office uses a variety of smartphones, tablets, and laptops, wireless features streamline workflows and reduce clutter. They also facilitate remote printing and mobile management, which can save time. However, ensure your network security is robust, as wireless printers can be entry points for vulnerabilities if not properly protected.
Should I prioritize color or monochrome printing in a small business printer?
Choosing between color and monochrome depends on your business needs. Color printers can enhance marketing materials and presentations but usually come with higher costs for toner and maintenance. Monochrome models are more affordable, faster, and ideal if your documents are primarily text-based. Consider whether color printing is a core part of your operations or if a monochrome model will suffice for everyday tasks.
What is the typical lifespan of an all-in-one laser printer for small business use?
Most modern laser printers are designed to last several years, often around 3 to 5 years with proper maintenance. Their durability depends on usage levels, build quality, and regular servicing. Investing in a reputable brand with good customer support can extend the lifespan and reduce downtime. Keep in mind, some components like toner cartridges wear out faster, but the core machine can serve a small business well for many years if maintained properly.
How important are security features in a small business laser printer?
Security features are increasingly vital as printers can be entry points for data breaches. Look for models that support secure printing, user authentication, and encrypted connections. These features help protect sensitive documents and prevent unauthorized access. If your business handles confidential information, prioritizing security can save you from costly data leaks or compliance issues down the line.
Conclusion
The best overall pick for most small businesses is the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw, offering a reliable blend of speed, ease of use, and cost-efficiency. For those seeking the best value, the Brother MFC-L2820DW provides solid performance at a lower price point, especially suited for smaller teams or less frequent use. If premium features like color printing and advanced security are priorities, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW or HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw excel but come with higher costs. Beginners or offices with limited space should consider compact models like the Brother DCP-L2640DW, while high-volume environments benefit from faster, high-capacity options such as the Brother MFC-L3720CDW. Tailor your choice based on your specific business needs, balancing features with budget constraints.
