Choosing the right color laser printer for a small business involves balancing print quality, speed, cost, and ease of use. The Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out as the best overall for its versatile all-in-one functionality and reliable performance. The Brother HL-L3280CDW offers a compact design and mobile printing at a lower price point, making it ideal for smaller spaces. However, tradeoffs often include higher running costs or slower speeds compared to premium models. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you find the best fit for your business needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models balance print quality, speed, and cost efficiency, with the Canon MF665Cdw leading for overall versatility.
- Compact and affordable options like Brother HL-L3280CDW are suited for small spaces but may have higher long-term toner costs.
- All-in-one capabilities are common among the best picks, offering scanning, copying, and fax in addition to printing.
- Faster models like Brother HL-L8430CDW are better for high-volume environments but come with a higher price tag.
- Wireless connectivity and mobile printing features are standard, but you should verify compatibility with your devices before purchasing.
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw – Wireless All-in-One Duplex Laser Printer with Copier, Scanner, Fax, 3-Year Warranty |  | Best Overall for Small Offices Needing Versatility and Speed | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | Color: Yes | Wireless: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best Compact Color Laser Printer for Small Spaces | Print Speed: up to 27 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | Duplex: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex |  | Best for High-Quality Document Printing at a Moderate Price | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best for Small Offices Needing All-in-One Functionality and Flexibility | Print Speed: 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Reliable All-in-One Performance in Small Teams | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Auto Duplex: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Office Wireless Color Printing | Print Speed: 26 ppm | Color: Yes | Duplex Printing: Auto | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Versatility and High Capacity | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile device printing | 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 Security-Conscious Businesses with High Productivity Needs | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for Home Offices and Small Businesses with Multi-function Needs | Color: Color | Wireless: Yes | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L8430CDW Business Color Laser Printer with Wireless Networking |  | Best for High-Volume, Secure Office Environments | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets, expandable to 1,340 | Connectivity: Wireless, NFC, mobile | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| color laser printers for small business | Print Speed | Connectivity | Paper Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cd | 26 pages per minute | — | 250 sheets |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | up to 27 ppm | Wireless, Ethernet | — |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | 19 PPM | — | 250 sheets |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | 19 ppm | Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB, Wi-Fi Direct | 250 sheets |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | up to 26 ppm | Wireless | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | 26 ppm | Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi) | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | 26 pages per minute | Wireless, mobile device printing | 250 sheets |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | up to 33 ppm | Wireless dual-band, Gigabit Ethernet | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cd | 35 PPM | — | — |
| Brother HL-L8430CDW Business C | up to 33 ppm | Wireless, NFC, mobile | 250 sheets, expandable to 1,340 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw – Wireless All-in-One Duplex Laser Printer with Copier, Scanner, Fax, 3-Year Warranty
The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw stands out as the most versatile option, combining fast color printing at 26 ppm with a comprehensive set of features like scanning, copying, and faxing. Its wireless connectivity and 5-inch touchscreen make it especially user-friendly, which sets it apart from the Brother HL-L3220CDW, which forgoes multifunction capabilities for a lower price. However, the MF665Cdw’s size could be a concern for very tight spaces, and its 250-sheet capacity may require more frequent refilling during high-volume days. The high-capacity toner reduces downtime, making this a solid all-in-one device for busy small offices that need reliability and speed.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of up to 26 ppm in color and monochrome
- Easy wireless setup and mobile device printing
- Intuitive 5-inch color touchscreen for quick operation
- High-capacity toner for fewer replacements
Cons:- Bulkier than some compact options, limiting placement flexibility
- Limited to 250-sheet paper capacity, requiring more frequent refills
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Small businesses requiring a multi-functional, fast, and reliable printer with extensive features
Not ideal for: Very small or cluttered spaces where size and footprint are critical constraints
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- Color:Yes
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:50-sheet duplex
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Toner:Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity
- Warranty:3 years limited
Our verdict“This all-in-one model is ideal for small offices that need speed, multifunctionality, and a user-friendly interface despite its larger size.”
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Compact Digital Color Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L3280CDW offers a compact footprint, making it a strong choice for small offices or home setups where space is limited. It excels in delivering fast color prints at 27 ppm, with automatic duplexing to save paper, and features a straightforward touchscreen interface for cloud and mobile printing. Compared to the larger MF665Cdw, this model sacrifices multifunction options but gains in size and simplicity, making it easier to fit into tight spots. The included 2-month subscription trial adds value, although ongoing costs and setup for cloud printing may challenge some users. It’s especially suited for users who prioritize space-saving design without sacrificing print quality.
Pros:- High-quality laser color printing at 27 ppm
- Compact design fits small spaces
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
- Supports cloud and mobile printing via touchscreen
Cons:- Limited to small and home office environments
- Setup for wireless and cloud printing can be complex
- Subscription trial may require renewal at additional cost
Best for: Small office or home office users needing a compact, fast color laser printer with wireless and mobile capabilities
Not ideal for: Offices with high-volume printing needs or those requiring multifunction devices beyond printing
- Print Speed:up to 27 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Duplex:Automatic
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Includes:2-month refresh subscription trial
Our verdict“This printer is a smart choice for space-conscious small offices that need fast, reliable color printing with easy wireless access.”
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing and Duplex
The Brother HL-L3220CDW delivers crisp, professional color documents at 19 ppm, making it suitable for small offices prioritizing print quality over speed. Its 250-sheet paper tray reduces refill frequency, and wireless plus mobile compatibility ensures flexible placement. Unlike the MF665Cdw, it lacks multifunction features, focusing solely on printing, which helps keep its price lower. The absence of detailed print resolution info and potentially higher initial costs for wireless features are factors to consider. This model makes sense for businesses that mainly need high-quality prints and value a straightforward setup over multifunctionality or the fastest speeds.
Pros:- High-quality color printing with crisp text
- Large 250-sheet paper tray reduces refills
- Wireless and mobile device compatibility
- Reliable for professional document output
Cons:- No information on maximum resolution or toner costs
- Higher initial cost for wireless features can be a barrier
Best for: Small offices prioritizing high-quality color printing and efficient paper handling over multifunction features
Not ideal for: Offices requiring scanning, copying, or faxing regularly, or those needing the fastest print speeds
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Wireless Connectivity:Yes
- Mobile Compatibility:Yes
Our verdict“This printer suits small offices that need quality over speed, with a focus on straightforward wireless printing and large capacity.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into a single device, making it a natural choice for offices that require multifunctional capabilities. Its 19 ppm speed is decent for most small business needs, and the 3.5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation. Multiple connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and USB, offer flexibility in network setup. Compared to the MF665Cdw, which emphasizes speed and high capacity, this model focuses on versatility, though it may be bulkier and slightly more complex to set up. It suits teams needing all features in one device but might be overkill for those who only print occasionally.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality with scan, copy, and fax
- High-quality color laser prints with fast speeds
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi and USB
- Intuitive touchscreen with cloud service support
Cons:- May be bulky for limited spaces
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
- Higher cost compared to single-function printers
Best for: Small business teams requiring a multifunction device with easy connectivity and cloud integration
Not ideal for: Offices with very limited space or those that only need occasional printing without scanning or copying
- Print Speed:19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB, Wi-Fi Direct
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color display
- Features:Scan, Copy, Fax, Automatic duplex
Our verdict“This model is a good fit for small teams that need a multifunction device with flexible connectivity options and reliable performance.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw combines speed and reliability, offering up to 26 ppm in color, with the convenience of scanning, copying, and faxing. Its 250-sheet input tray and auto duplexing help keep workflow smooth, making it a practical choice for busy small teams. Compared to the Canon MF665Cdw, it emphasizes consistent performance and ease of use, though it is designed specifically for HP toner cartridges, which could limit options and add costs. The firmware update restrictions may also influence compatibility with third-party cartridges. Overall, this model makes sense for those seeking a straightforward, dependable all-in-one printer for frequent use.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of up to 26 ppm
- All-in-one functions including scan, copy, and fax
- Auto duplexing and 250-sheet input tray
- Reliable performance with original HP toner
Cons:- Limited to HP cartridges with chips, restricting third-party options
- Firmware updates may prevent use of non-HP toner cartridges
Best for: Small office teams needing a reliable, fast all-in-one color laser printer with good paper capacity
Not ideal for: Offices that prefer flexibility in toner options or need advanced multifunction features beyond basic printing
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Compatible Cartridges:HP 218A, 218X
Our verdict“This printer is well-suited for small teams seeking dependable, fast, and straightforward all-in-one color printing with minimal fuss.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
This model stands out for its combination of fast print speeds up to 26 ppm and reliable dual-band Wi-Fi, making it ideal for busy small office teams needing professional-quality color documents. Compared with the Canon MF662Cdw, it offers similar speed but excels in wireless stability and auto duplexing, saving paper and reducing interruptions. However, it relies on specific HP cartridges with chips, which can complicate refilling or switching brands, plus firmware updates are often necessary to maintain compatibility. Its straightforward setup and solid performance make it a strong choice for those prioritizing efficiency and reliable wireless connection.
Pros:- Fast color printing speeds
- Auto duplex printing saves paper
- Reliable dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons:- Requires specific HP cartridges with chips
- Firmware updates needed for compatibility
Best for: Small business teams that need fast, reliable wireless color printing with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Small offices on tight budgets or those seeking low-cost consumables, due to cartridge requirements
- Print Speed:26 ppm
- Color:Yes
- Duplex Printing:Auto
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless (dual-band Wi-Fi)
Our verdict“This printer suits small businesses that want dependable wireless color printing without compromising speed or quality.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner
The Canon MF662Cdw offers a robust combination of fast 26 pages per minute printing and versatile features like scanning, copying, and a 5-inch touchscreen, making it ideal for small offices seeking all-in-one functionality. Compared with the HP 3201dw, it provides a more comprehensive suite of office features, including a copier and scanner, though its high-capacity toner can lead to higher replacement costs. Setup is generally straightforward, but some users may find the initial configuration a bit complex. Its large paper capacity, combined with automatic duplexing, supports high-volume workflows, making it a strong all-in-one choice.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality including copier and scanner
- Fast print speeds with high-quality color output
- Large paper capacity and automatic duplexing
Cons:- High-capacity toner can be costly
- Initial setup may be complex for some users
Best for: Small businesses that need an all-in-one device with high-volume capacity and easy wireless access
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or those with tight budgets, due to higher toner costs and complexity
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile device printing
- Display:5-inch color touchscreen
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“This model is best for small offices requiring an all-in-one device with high capacity and robust features.”
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer with Duplex Print, Scan, Copy, Security
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW distinguishes itself with its high-speed printing up to 33 ppm and comprehensive security features, including NFC card reader and triple-layer security. This makes it ideal for small businesses handling sensitive documents. Compared to the Canon MF753Cdw II, it offers faster scan speeds and more advanced security options, though its larger footprint and higher initial cost might be limiting for smaller spaces or tighter budgets. The 7-inch touchscreen enhances usability, and its high-yield toner options ensure fewer replacements during busy periods. However, the setup process can be complex, especially for users unfamiliar with enterprise-level security features.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds
- Advanced security features including NFC and triple-layer security
- High-yield toner options for cost efficiency
Cons:- High initial cost
- Large footprint despite being smaller than previous models
Best for: Small businesses needing fast, secure, all-in-one color printing with high-volume capacity
Not ideal for: Startups or solo entrepreneurs with limited space and budget constraints
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Touchscreen:7-inch color
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band, Gigabit Ethernet
- Cartridges:Includes 3,000-page black and 1,800-page color toner
Our verdict“This printer is tailored for security-focused small businesses prioritizing speed and reliability in a secure environment.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer
The Canon MF753Cdw II covers a broad range of functions, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, all in a compact, wireless package. With a fast 35 PPM speed and duplex printing, it’s well-suited for small offices that need flexibility without sacrificing space. Compared to the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, it offers more functions in a smaller footprint but lacks detailed warranty information, which could affect long-term confidence. The auto document feeder streamlines multi-page tasks, and wireless connectivity simplifies setup across various devices. This option makes sense for those who want a versatile, space-efficient all-in-one device.
Pros:- All-in-one functionality including fax
- Wireless connectivity for convenience
- Duplex printing saves paper
Cons:- No specific price or warranty info available
- Limited high-volume features
Best for: Home offices or small businesses needing a multi-function wireless laser printer with duplexing
Not ideal for: High-volume environments that require extensive security or high-yield toner options
- Color:Color
- Wireless:Yes
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Print Speed:35 PPM
- Warranty:3 Year Limited
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small offices needing a compact, multi-function device with wireless and duplex features.”
Brother HL-L8430CDW Business Color Laser Printer with Wireless Networking
The Brother HL-L8430CDW earns its spot for delivering up to 33 ppm speed and a highly expandable paper capacity of up to 1,340 sheets. It’s designed for busy offices that demand speed, security, and large-volume printing. Compared with the Canon MF753Cdw II, it offers more extensive paper handling and security features, including badge authentication and triple-layer security. Its eco-friendly credentials with ENERGY STAR certification are appealing, but the initial cost and setup complexity can be hurdles for smaller or less tech-savvy teams. Its large footprint calls for ample space, but for high-volume needs, the investment may be justified.
Pros:- Fast print speeds
- Expandable paper capacity
- Built-in security features
Cons:- Higher initial cost
- Complex setup process
Best for: Mid-sized offices prioritizing high-volume printing, security, and expandability
Not ideal for: Very small businesses or startups with space and budget constraints
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets, expandable to 1,340
- Connectivity:Wireless, NFC, mobile
- Security:Triple Layer, badge authentication
- Eco Features:ENERGY STAR, EPEAT Silver
Our verdict“This printer makes the most sense for offices with high-volume demands and security needs, where space allows.”
How We Picked
Products were selected based on a combination of performance metrics, user reviews, and value. We prioritized printers that deliver consistent color output, fast print speeds, and reliable connectivity options suitable for small business environments. Durability, ease of maintenance, and warranty support also influenced our rankings, ensuring that each option offers a balance of cost and features. The final list reflects a range of budgets and business needs, from entry-level models to premium all-in-ones, with a clear distinction of their ideal use cases.Factors to Consider When Choosing Color Laser Printers For Small Business
When choosing a color laser printer for a small business, it’s essential to consider factors beyond just initial price. Reliability and ongoing costs can significantly impact your total investment. Here are key considerations to guide your decision-making process:Print Speed and Volume Capacity
High print speeds and large toner capacities are vital if your business relies on frequent printing. Models with higher pages per minute (PPM) ratings and larger toner cartridges reduce downtime and per-page costs, but they often come with a higher upfront price. Balancing speed with budget constraints is key, especially if your volume is moderate or seasonal.
Cost of Consumables and Maintenance
Color laser printers typically have higher toner costs than monochrome models. Pay attention to the toner yield and the cost per page, which affect long-term expenses. Some printers offer high-yield toner options, but initial replacement costs can be steep. Also, consider maintenance features like easy toner replacement and accessible drum units to minimize downtime.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wireless connectivity is nearly universal among small business printers, but it’s important to verify compatibility with your existing network and mobile devices. Features like duplex printing, cloud printing, and app support streamline workflows. Avoid models with limited connectivity options if your team depends on seamless multi-device printing.
Print Quality and Color Accuracy
For marketing materials or professional documents, color accuracy and resolution matter. Look for printers with high DPI ratings and reliable color consistency. Cheaper models may produce less vibrant or inconsistent colors, which could affect your brand image. Decide how critical color fidelity is based on your specific printing needs.
Size, Design, and User Interface
Space constraints are common in small offices. Compact designs save room but might limit paper capacity. Consider the user interface—touchscreens and intuitive controls reduce setup time and user errors. A well-designed interface can make routine tasks more straightforward, especially for less tech-savvy users.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the right print speed for my small business?
Assess your typical daily or weekly print volume and choose a printer with a speed that matches or exceeds that level. For most small businesses, a printer that offers 20-30 pages per minute (PPM) suffices, but if you frequently print large batches, look for models offering 40 PPM or higher. Balancing speed with cost and quality will ensure you avoid bottlenecks while maintaining efficiency.
Are color laser printers more expensive to operate than monochrome models?
Yes, color laser printers generally have higher ongoing costs due to the need for multiple toner cartridges and higher toner consumption per page. However, investing in high-yield cartridges can lower the cost per print over time. Carefully compare the toner yields and prices to determine if a color laser aligns with your budget, especially if your print volume is high.
What features should I prioritize if I want a printer that’s easy to set up and use?
Look for models with simple, clear user interfaces, such as touchscreen controls, and straightforward installation procedures. Wireless connectivity and mobile printing support also enhance ease of use, allowing your team to print from multiple devices without fuss. Regular firmware updates and accessible customer support are additional factors that simplify ongoing maintenance.
Is it worth paying more for a multi-function color laser printer?
In most cases, yes. Multi-function printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, saving space and reducing the need for multiple devices. They tend to be more cost-effective in the long run if your business requires all these features regularly. However, higher-end models can have increased operational costs, so consider your actual usage patterns before investing.
How important is print speed versus print quality for small business needs?
Both factors matter, but their importance depends on your primary use case. If you need to print marketing materials or client presentations, color accuracy and resolution are key. Conversely, if your focus is on quick document printing for internal use, speed might take precedence. Striking a balance based on your typical workload will lead to the best overall experience.
