Starting a new business often requires a reliable all-in-one device to handle printing, copying, and scanning needs without breaking the bank. The office copier printer scanner for startup must balance performance, ease of use, and affordability. The Brother DCP-L2640DW stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its solid performance and wireless features. For those prioritizing color printing, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers excellent versatility, while the HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw is a strong budget-friendly option. Continue reading for a detailed comparison and help choosing the right device for your startup’s needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance cost with performance, with the Brother DCP-L2640DW leading as the overall best.
- Color capabilities significantly increase price but can boost productivity for businesses needing vibrant printouts.
- Wireless features and ease of setup are common among the best models, simplifying integration into startup workflows.
- Durability and warranty are often overlooked but are critical for minimizing downtime during busy startup phases.
- Tradeoffs between speed, print quality, and multifunctionality influence the best choice depending on specific startup needs.
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Offices Needing Speed and Flexibility | Print Speed: up to 36 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Offices Needing an All-in-One with Touchscreen | Print Speed: up to 36 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best for Color Versatility and Office Workflow Integration | Print Speed: up to 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All-in-One Printer with Scanner, Wireless Duplex Printing, 36 ppm, 3.5-inch Touchscreen |  | Best for Fast Monochrome Workflows with User-Friendly Features | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | Touchscreen: 3.5 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use |  | Best for Security-Focused Small Offices with Fast Duplex Printing | Print Speed: up to 28 ppm | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Features: Scan, Copy, Duplex, Security | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing Secure, Fast Mono Printing | Print Speed: Up to 35 pages per minute | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Color-Driven Small Offices Requiring Versatile Output | Print Speed: Up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome Duplex Wireless Laser Printer, All-in-One with Scanner, Copier, Fax, 42 PPM, 3-Year Warranty |  | Best for High-Volume Monochrome Printing with Advanced Features | Print Speed: 42 pages per minute | First Print Time: Approximately 5 seconds | Display: 5-inch color touchscreen | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Office copier printer scanner for startup | Print Speed | Connectivity | Auto Document Feeder | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | up to 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | 50 pages | Compact |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | up to 36 ppm | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | 50 pages | Compact |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | up to 19 ppm | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB | 50 sheets | Larger footprint |
| Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All- | 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | — | — |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in | up to 28 ppm | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | — | Small office footprint |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wi | Up to 35 pages per minute | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth | Yes | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | Up to 26 ppm | Wireless | — | — |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monoc | 42 pages per minute | Wireless, Mobile Device Printing | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer
This model stands out for its combination of fast print speeds up to 36 ppm and a compact design, making it ideal for small office setups. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, it offers similar speed but lacks a touchscreen, which might hinder ease of use for some. Its wireless and Ethernet connectivity options support versatile device management, though it’s limited to monochrome output, which could be a drawback for businesses needing color. The requirement for genuine toner and subscription costs are tradeoffs to consider—costs that can add up over time. Overall, this printer offers a strong balance of speed and space efficiency for startups focused on basic document workflows.
Pros:- Fast printing and scanning speeds for quick turnaround
- Compact design fits small office spaces
- Flexible wireless and Ethernet connectivity options
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color options
- Requires genuine toner, adding ongoing costs
- Subscription service may incur additional expenses
Best for: Small startups needing fast, reliable monochrome printing and scanning in a limited space
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring color printing or high-volume document handling with complex workflows
- Print Speed:up to 36 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Includes:Refresh Subscription Trial
- Size:Compact
Our verdict“This printer suits startups prioritizing speed and space efficiency but can’t handle color or high-volume multi-color jobs.”
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
This pick makes the most sense for users who value an intuitive 2.7-inch touchscreen and all-in-one functionality. Its fast print and scan speeds match the DCP-L2640DW, but the inclusion of fax adds to its versatility. While both models are monochrome, the MFC-L2820DW’s touchscreen simplifies tasks that can be cumbersome with button-based interfaces, making it more user-friendly for less tech-savvy users. Its wireless and cloud capabilities improve convenience, yet it shares the same limitation of no color printing. The size remains compact, but the need for toner replacements over time is a consideration for ongoing costs. Overall, it’s ideal for small teams needing a straightforward, multifunction device with easy navigation.
Pros:- Compact and space-efficient design
- Fast print and scan speeds
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output, no color printing
- Toner replacements are necessary over time
- No advanced color features or high-volume options
Best for: Small office teams seeking an all-in-one monochrome printer with simple, touchscreen operation
Not ideal for: Businesses that need color output or high-volume printing with advanced features
- Print Speed:up to 36 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Size:Compact
Our verdict“This device is best for small teams wanting straightforward, multifunction monochrome printing with an easy-to-use interface.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
This model shines for its color printing capability combined with fast speeds up to 19 ppm, making it suitable for businesses that need to print in color. Compared with the monochrome options like the MFC-L2820DW, it offers richer outputs and a 3.5-inch color touchscreen with shortcuts, which can streamline complex tasks. However, its larger footprint requires more space, and the setup process might be more complex for beginners. Its high-quality color output and automatic duplexing make it a strong choice for creative or presentation-heavy environments, but it may be overkill for purely document-focused startups. The higher price point reflects its advanced features and color capabilities.
Pros:- High-quality color printing and output
- Fast speeds up to 19 ppm
- Intuitive 3.5-inch color touchscreen with shortcuts
Cons:- Larger physical size requires more space
- Setup may be complex for new users
- Higher cost than monochrome models
Best for: Startups needing high-quality color printing for presentations, marketing materials, or visual documents
Not ideal for: Small teams with limited space or those only requiring monochrome printing and scanning
- Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color with shortcuts
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
- Size:Larger footprint
Our verdict“Ideal for startups that prioritize color quality and versatile workflows at the expense of larger size and higher investment.”
Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All-in-One Printer with Scanner, Wireless Duplex Printing, 36 ppm, 3.5-inch Touchscreen
This model offers impressive speed at 36 ppm and a 3.5-inch touchscreen, making it a strong choice for high-volume monochrome printing in small businesses. Its automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste, and the wireless connectivity supports flexible device management. Compared to the MFC-L2820DW, it emphasizes speed more heavily, which benefits document-heavy workflows. Its monochrome-only output is a limitation for those needing color, but for straightforward printing, scanning, and copying, it excels. The energy-efficient design further appeals to eco-conscious startups. The main tradeoff is its focus solely on black-and-white documents, which could limit future expansion into color needs.
Pros:- High-speed printing at 36 ppm
- Wireless and mobile printing support
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to monochrome, no color printing
- Designed mainly for small business workflows, overkill for casual use
- No color output options
Best for: Small businesses requiring high-speed monochrome printing with easy operation
Not ideal for: Startups that need color printing or multi-color marketing materials
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Touchscreen:3.5 inches
- Automatic Document Feeder:50 pages
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Energy Efficiency:22% reduction
Our verdict“This printer is perfect for fast, high-volume monochrome printing in busy small-office environments.”
HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use
This model excels in security features and reliable two-sided printing, making it well-suited for sensitive business environments. With speeds up to 28 ppm, it balances speed with robust security protocols, unlike some monochrome models that lack advanced protections. Its wireless and Ethernet options support flexible device management, similar to the Brother models, but it is more tailored for offices prioritizing document security. Its monochrome output limits creative uses but fits well in document-centric settings. The absence of color printing keeps costs down, but it also limits versatility. Overall, this printer is best for startups that need secure, fast monochrome printing and copying.
Pros:- Fast two-sided printing at 28 ppm
- Strong security features for sensitive data
- Wireless and mobile device support
Cons:- Limited to black & white printing, no color
- Designed mainly for small office security needs
- No color options for marketing or visual projects
Best for: Startups handling sensitive documents needing fast, secure monochrome printing
Not ideal for: Teams requiring color printing or more advanced multifunction features
- Print Speed:up to 28 ppm
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Features:Scan, Copy, Duplex, Security
- Duplex:Yes
- Size:Small office footprint
Our verdict“This printer is best for small startups that prioritize document security and efficient monochrome workflows.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer
This HP model excels in small office environments where speed and security are priorities. With print speeds reaching 35 pages per minute, it outpaces many monochrome options like the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw, which is even faster at 42 ppm but is more expensive and complex to set up. The 3101fdw offers reliable wireless and Ethernet connectivity, making it easy for up to 7 users to share without hassle. Its security features, including HP Wolf Pro Security, add peace of mind for sensitive data. The main tradeoff is its monochrome-only design, which limits versatility for offices needing color. For teams focused on document security and high-volume black-and-white printing, this is a strong pick. However, larger offices or those requiring color outputs will find it limiting.
Pros:- Fast printing speeds of up to 35 pages per minute
- Supports wireless, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Enhanced security features with HP Wolf Pro Security
Cons:- Limited to black & white printing only
- Designed primarily for small teams, not larger offices
- No color printing capabilities
Best for: Small teams prioritizing fast, secure monochrome printing with simple network sharing
Not ideal for: Offices needing color printing or larger workgroups exceeding 7 people
- Print Speed:Up to 35 pages per minute
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Auto 2-sided Printing:Yes
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Suitable for:Up to 7 people
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small, security-conscious teams needing quick monochrome output without the complexity of color printing.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This HP color laser offers a compelling balance of speed and vibrant output for small businesses that need to produce professional-quality color documents. With a print speed of 26 ppm, it’s slightly slower than the monochrome HP 3101fdw but more capable in color. Automatic duplexing helps save paper and reduces costs over time, especially with high-yield toner options like HP 218X. Compared to the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw, which features a larger 5-inch touchscreen and a higher paper capacity, the 3301sdw is more straightforward for smaller setups and emphasizes affordability in color printing. A drawback is its reliance on HP chips and firmware updates, which can restrict third-party cartridges, adding ongoing costs. It’s best suited for small offices where color and versatility outweigh maximum speed or high-volume printing.
Pros:- Fast color printing at 26 ppm
- All-in-one functionality with scanning and copying
- Automatic duplex printing to save paper
Cons:- Requires HP chips or circuitry for cartridges
- Firmware updates may limit third-party toner use
Best for: Small offices needing reliable, high-quality color prints with scanning and copying features
Not ideal for: Offices that prioritize high-volume monochrome printing or want to avoid proprietary toner restrictions
- Print Speed:Up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Toner Compatibility:Original HP 218A and 218X
Our verdict“This printer suits small color-focused offices that value quality and convenience over maximum speed or cost flexibility.”
Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome Duplex Wireless Laser Printer, All-in-One with Scanner, Copier, Fax, 42 PPM, 3-Year Warranty
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw stands out for its rapid 42 ppm print speed and extensive paper handling, making it suitable for busy offices with high-volume needs. Its 5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and the large paper capacity (up to 900 sheets) reduces downtime. Compared to the HP LaserJet 3101fdw, which is more compact and easier to set up, the MF465dw offers more throughput but can be more complex initially. Its wireless and mobile printing options support a range of devices, including Canon’s own apps, but setting up might be daunting for less tech-savvy users. The main limitation is its monochrome-only output, which makes it less suitable for offices needing color. For larger startups or home offices with high-volume demands, this model offers a good mix of speed and features.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 42 pages per minute
- Large, expandable paper capacity of up to 900 sheets
- Wireless and mobile device printing capabilities
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Setup can be complex for some users
- Higher initial cost compared to smaller models
Best for: High-volume small offices needing fast monochrome printing with extensive paper capacity
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or simple setup for infrequent use
- Print Speed:42 pages per minute
- First Print Time:Approximately 5 seconds
- Display:5-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Automatic Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Scan Speed:Up to 100 ipm (bw), 80 ipm (color)
- Paper Capacity:Up to 900 sheets
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for busy startups with high-volume monochrome printing needs who can handle a more involved setup process.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their performance in everyday office tasks, user-friendliness, build quality, and value for startups. We prioritized multifunctionality — such as printing, scanning, copying, and faxing — which are essential for small business operations. Wireless connectivity and ease of setup were also key factors, as startups often need quick, hassle-free installation. Durability and ongoing support, including warranties, played roles in ranking, ensuring the devices can handle the demands of a growing business. Price-to-performance ratio was central; we aimed to identify options that deliver reliable results without unnecessary expense.| Office copier printer scanner for startup | Size |
|---|---|
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Compact |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | Compact |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | Larger footprint |
| Brother MFC-L2900DW Laser All- | — |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in | Small office footprint |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wi | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | — |
| Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monoc | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Office Copier Printer Scanner For Startup
When choosing an office copier printer scanner for a startup, several factors must be balanced to ensure you get a device that meets your immediate needs and scales with your business. Understanding these factors helps avoid common pitfalls, like overspending on unnecessary features or buying a machine that can’t handle your workload. Carefully considering your volume, color needs, and connectivity options can save money and improve efficiency in the long run.Print Volume and Speed
Startups should assess their expected print volume to avoid over-investing in high-capacity models or underperforming devices. Look for a printer with a pages-per-minute (PPM) rating that matches your workflow. If you anticipate high daily output, prioritize models with faster speeds and larger paper capacities to prevent bottlenecks. Conversely, for light use, a simpler device may suffice, saving costs.
Color vs. Monochrome
Color printers tend to be more expensive and have higher running costs, but they can be invaluable if your business relies on marketing materials, presentations, or detailed graphics. Monochrome models are typically more affordable and faster for text-heavy tasks. Consider your core needs and choose accordingly — investing in color only makes sense if it directly impacts your business output or branding.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless connectivity simplifies setup and allows multiple team members to print from various devices, which is advantageous for startups with shared workspaces. Look for models with intuitive interfaces and mobile printing capabilities. Avoid overly complex setups that can waste time and frustrate less tech-savvy users. Cloud integration can also streamline document management.
Maintenance and Support
Choose a device with accessible toner and paper supplies, and consider brands known for reliable support. A longer warranty or onsite service can minimize downtime during critical periods. Keep in mind that some models have higher consumable costs, so evaluate ongoing expenses for toner, paper, and maintenance to avoid surprises later.
Size and Design
Startups often operate in compact spaces, so selecting a device with a small footprint is practical. However, don’t sacrifice essential features for size — look for a balance that fits your workspace without compromising performance. Modular designs or multifunction units with a small footprint are ideal for dense office environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a color printer for monochrome documents?
Yes, most color printers support black-and-white printing. However, printing in color, even when not needed, can consume more toner and increase costs. For strictly monochrome documents, choosing a dedicated monochrome model can be more economical and faster, but if you occasionally need color, a color printer provides flexibility without sacrificing basic monochrome performance.
What’s the most important feature for a startup printer?
The most important feature is reliability combined with ease of use. Startups need a device that can handle daily workloads without frequent breakdowns or complicated setups. Wireless connectivity and multifunctionality add convenience, but overall, dependable performance and low maintenance are key to keeping your workflow smooth during growth phases.
Are multifunction printers worth the extra cost?
Generally, yes. Multipurpose models consolidate printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing into a single device, saving space and upfront costs. For startups with limited office space or budget, this integration streamlines operations. Yet, multifunction printers might have higher ongoing costs or complexity, so evaluate whether you truly need all functions regularly before opting for a combined unit.
How important is print speed for a startup?
Print speed can influence productivity, especially if your team relies on quick turnarounds for reports and documents. While a faster printer won’t automatically improve quality, it helps prevent queues during busy periods. For low-volume usage, speed is less critical, but for high-volume tasks, investing in a faster model can reduce delays and keep your workflow flowing.
Should I prioritize warranty and support over features?
Support and warranty are vital for minimizing downtime, especially for startups that can’t afford prolonged disruptions. A solid warranty often indicates better build quality and manufacturer confidence. While features are important, reliable support ensures you can resolve issues quickly, making it a wise investment for long-term peace of mind.
Conclusion
For startups seeking the best overall performance with a balance of features and reliability, the Brother DCP-L2640DW is the top choice. Those prioritizing cost-efficiency and simplicity should consider the HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw for its affordability. If your startup needs vibrant color output and multifunctionality, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW or HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw are excellent options. Beginners or small teams with limited space will find the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw easy to operate, while larger workloads warrant the faster models like the Brother MFC-L2900DW. Your choice depends on the specific demands and growth plans of your startup.
