Finding the right business laser printer involves balancing speed, cost-efficiency, and features. The Brother HL-L6210DW stands out as the best overall for its large paper capacity and security features, ideal for busy offices. The HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw excels with fast speeds and easy setup, perfect for teams that need quick, reliable printing. A key tradeoff in this category is between upfront costs and ongoing expenses—more affordable models may lack speed or multifunctionality. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what makes each unique.
Key Takeaways
- High-capacity paper trays in top models reduce refill frequency, saving time during busy periods.
- Wireless and mobile printing features are now standard, but their implementation quality varies across brands.
- Multi-functionality (print, scan, copy) often comes with a higher initial price but adds long-term value for office workflows.
- Cost per page is a critical factor; cheaper models may lead to higher toner expenses over time.
- Build quality and security features are more prominent in premium models, which can justify a higher price for sensitive data handling.
| Brother HL-L6210DW Business Monochrome Laser Printer with Large Paper Capacity, Wireless, Ethernet, Security, Mobile Printing (Renewed Premium) |  | Best Overall for High-Volume Office Printing | Print Speed: 50 ppm | Paper Capacity: 520 sheets (expandable to 1,660) | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, dual band wireless | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing |  | Best Value for Small Office or Home Use | Print Speed: 30 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan |  | Best Multi-Function for Small Business with Space Constraints | 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 |
| HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw Wireless Printer, Print, Scan, Copy, Fast Speeds, Easy Setup, Mobile Printing |  | Best for Small Teams Needing All-in-One Speed and Security | Print Speed: Up to 30 ppm | Two-Sided Printing: Up to 19 ppm | Auto Document Feeder: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wireless Printer |  | Best for Small to Medium Teams Needing Reliable All-in-One | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Auto Duplex: Yes | Connectivity: Wi-Fi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best Overall for Small Offices and Home Use | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Multifunctionality | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-6210DW Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Wireless Connectivity |  | Best for High-Volume Office Printing | Print Speed: 50 pages per minute | Main Tray Capacity: 520 sheets | Multipurpose Tray Capacity: 100 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing All-in-One Functionality | Print Speed: up to 35 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Input Tray Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier |  | Best for High-Volume, Busy Offices | Print Speed: 50 ppm | Auto Document Feeder: 70 pages | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Business Laser Printer | Print Speed | Connectivity | Auto Document Feeder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L6210DW Business Mo | 50 ppm | Gigabit Ethernet, dual band wireless | — |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | 30 ppm | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), USB | — |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | up to 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | 50 pages |
| HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw Wirele | Up to 30 ppm | Dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Yes |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wi | up to 33 ppm | Wi-Fi | — |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | 36 pages per minute | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | — |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | 50 pages |
| Brother HL-6210DW Monochrome L | 50 pages per minute | Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band wireless | — |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | up to 35 ppm | Wireless | 50 sheets |
| Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One | 50 ppm | Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi | 70 pages |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother HL-L6210DW Business Monochrome Laser Printer with Large Paper Capacity, Wireless, Ethernet, Security, Mobile Printing (Renewed Premium)
This model stands out for its exceptional speed of up to 50 pages per minute, making it ideal for busy offices that prioritize rapid document throughput. Unlike the Brother HL-L2405W, which is more suited for small-scale tasks, the HL-L6210DW offers an expandable paper capacity of up to 1,660 sheets, reducing downtime and refills during large print runs. Its advanced security features, including Triple Layer Security, are vital for organizations handling sensitive data. However, its focus on monochrome printing means it lacks color capabilities, and the initial cost plus toner replacement can be steep. The setup process might be complex for some users, but the investment pays off for high-demand environments requiring speed, security, and large volume handling.
Pros:- Fast printing speed of up to 50 ppm boosts productivity
- Large, expandable paper capacity minimizes refills
- Flexible connectivity including wireless and Ethernet
- Robust security features protect sensitive documents
Cons:- High initial purchase and toner costs can be prohibitive
- Complex setup process may challenge less tech-savvy users
Best for: Large offices or departments needing fast, secure, high-volume monochrome printing
Not ideal for: Small businesses or users requiring color printing or budget-conscious setups
- Print Speed:50 ppm
- Paper Capacity:520 sheets (expandable to 1,660)
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, dual band wireless
- Security:Triple Layer Security
- Included Toner:3,000 pages
- Maximum Toner Yield:18,000 pages
Our verdict“This printer is best suited for large, security-conscious offices with high-volume monochrome printing demands.”
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing
This compact and affordable printer makes sense for users who need quick, reliable monochrome printing without extra frills. Compared to the Brother HL-L6210DW, it offers a slower print speed of 30 ppm but compensates with a more manageable size and lower price. Its 250-sheet paper tray supports high-volume tasks, but lacks duplex printing, which could be a drawback for those seeking automatic two-sided printing. The inclusion of a toner subscription service adds convenience, especially for users who prioritize low maintenance costs. However, this model is limited to monochrome output and might fall short for growing small businesses that need multi-function capabilities or color printing.
Pros:- Fast printing at 30 pages per minute
- Wireless connectivity with mobile printing support
- Large 250-sheet tray reduces frequent refills
- Toner subscription service simplifies maintenance
Cons:- No duplex printing feature
- Limited to monochrome—no color printing
Best for: Small office or home users who need reliable monochrome printing on a budget
Not ideal for: Offices requiring duplex printing or color output for professional presentations
- Print Speed:30 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), USB
- Supported Paper Types:Envelopes, specialty paper
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This model is a practical choice for budget-conscious users needing dependable monochrome printing for small-scale tasks.”
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan
This model combines printing, scanning, and copying in a compact footprint, making it suitable for small offices that need all-in-one functionality without taking up much space. Unlike the simpler HL-L2405W, it adds scanning and copying, which broadens its utility. The up to 36 ppm print speed and efficient scanning support quick turnaround of documents. Its 50-page auto document feeder aids in hands-free copying and scanning. While it offers flexible connectivity via wireless and Ethernet, it remains monochrome-only, and toner replacements are necessary for ongoing use. The integrated multi-function design makes it a smart pick for users who want versatility without sacrificing office space.
Pros:- Compact size fits small office spaces
- Fast print and scan speeds for efficiency
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity options
- Supports remote printing and scanning via mobile apps
Cons:- Limited to black and white documents
- Toner replacement needed for ongoing use
Best for: Small businesses or home offices needing multi-function capabilities in a compact design
Not ideal for: Teams requiring color printing or high-volume monochrome output
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for small teams needing an all-in-one monochrome printer that saves space and offers versatile functionality.”
HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw Wireless Printer, Print, Scan, Copy, Fast Speeds, Easy Setup, Mobile Printing
The HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw offers a compelling package for small teams that value speed, security, and ease of use. Its up to 30 ppm print speed and automatic document feeder streamline daily tasks, similar to the HP LaserJet Pro 3105sdw but with a more user-friendly setup. Compared with the Brother DCP-L2640DW, it emphasizes security with built-in features, making it ideal for sensitive environments. Its mobile printing support via HP Smart app adds convenience. However, it remains monochrome-only and is primarily designed for small groups (1-5 users), so larger teams needing more capacity or multifunction options might find it limiting.
Pros:- Fast speeds suitable for small teams
- Easy setup and mobile printing support
- Automatic document feeder enhances productivity
- Strong security features protect data
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output
- Designed mainly for small groups
Best for: Small offices or teams prioritizing speed, security, and simple setup
Not ideal for: Larger workgroups requiring color or high-volume multifunction capabilities
- Print Speed:Up to 30 ppm
- Two-Sided Printing:Up to 19 ppm
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Compatibility:Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook
Our verdict“A solid choice for small teams that need quick, secure monochrome printing with minimal setup effort.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3105sdw Wireless Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro 3105sdw balances speed, versatility, and security for small to medium-sized teams. Its up to 33 ppm print speed and auto duplex printing make it efficient for daily office tasks, surpassing the speed of some competitors like the Brother HL-L2405W. The advanced HP Wolf Pro Security ensures data protection, vital for sensitive documents. Its easy setup and mobile printing capabilities are practical for dynamic work environments. However, it only works with cartridges that have original HP chips, which can limit options and add to ongoing costs. Designed for workgroups up to seven users, it offers a reliable, secure solution for everyday document management.
Pros:- Fast printing at up to 33 ppm
- Auto duplex printing saves paper
- Easy setup and mobile printing support
- Enhanced security features
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Limited to office environments for up to 7 users
Best for: Small to medium teams needing fast, secure, all-in-one monochrome printing
Not ideal for: Large organizations or those requiring color or multifunction beyond printing, scanning, and copying
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Security:HP Wolf Pro Security
- Compatibility:Original HP cartridges with chips
Our verdict“This printer suits small to medium teams seeking dependable, secure monochrome multifunctionality without complexity.”
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2460DW stands out for its combination of speed, ease of use, and paper efficiency, making it ideal for small offices that prioritize high-volume monochrome printing. Unlike the larger HL-6210DW, it offers a more compact footprint without sacrificing speed, but it’s limited to black-and-white output, which may not suit environments needing color. Its wireless and Ethernet connectivity ensures flexible setup, while the 250-sheet paper capacity minimizes refills during busy days. The automatic duplex feature reduces paper waste, but users must rely on genuine Brother toner, and the lack of color limits its versatility. This model is perfect for small teams needing reliable, high-volume printing without extra features.Pros:- Fast printing speed of 36ppm
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible setup
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Large 250-sheet paper capacity
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Requires genuine toner cartridges for optimal performance
Best for: Small offices or home-based businesses focusing on high-volume black-and-white printing
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring color printing or multifunction capabilities beyond simple printing
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Mobile Printing:Yes
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“A reliable, high-speed monochrome printer best suited for small offices focused on volume and efficiency.”
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2820DW offers a compact, all-in-one solution that combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, making it a versatile choice for small teams. Compared to the HL-L2460DW, this model adds the ability to scan and fax, which is essential for businesses managing documents electronically and in print. Its 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, but it remains monochrome, limiting use for color tasks. Its fast print and scan speeds support busy workflows, yet it requires compatible toner cartridges, and its small footprint might limit large-volume paper handling. This pick suits small office environments seeking multifunction capabilities in a space-efficient design.Pros:- Compact and space-efficient design
- Fast printing and scanning speeds
- User-friendly 2.7-inch touchscreen
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and Ethernet
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Dependent on compatible toner cartridges for optimal operation
Best for: Small businesses that need an all-in-one device for printing, scanning, copying, and faxing
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or high-volume document handling beyond basic needs
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Our verdict“A versatile monochrome multifunction printer ideal for small offices needing an integrated device.”
Brother HL-6210DW Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Wireless Connectivity
The Brother HL-6210DW is built for demanding office environments, delivering an impressive 50ppm speed and large capacity trays that can handle up to 1,660 sheets with optional expansions. Compared to the HL-L2460DW, it offers significantly higher capacity and faster throughput, but it’s bulkier and more expensive upfront. Its advanced wireless and Ethernet connectivity support seamless sharing among teams, while the high-yield toner reduces operational costs. However, its size might be a drawback for smaller spaces, and setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users. This model is best for larger offices or workplaces with high-volume monochrome printing needs.Pros:- Fast printing speed of 50ppm
- Large capacity trays and expandable paper handling
- Advanced wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- High-yield toner for lower running costs
Cons:- Bulky size may not fit small office spaces
- Initial setup can be complex
Best for: High-volume, busy office environments where speed and capacity are priorities
Not ideal for: Small teams or offices needing a compact, space-efficient device
- Print Speed:50 pages per minute
- Main Tray Capacity:520 sheets
- Multipurpose Tray Capacity:100 sheets
- Expandable Capacity:up to 1,660 sheets
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band wireless
- Toner Yield:up to 18,000 pages
Our verdict“A high-capacity, fast monochrome printer designed for large offices with heavy daily printing demands.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw combines speed and multifunctionality, making it a strong choice for small teams that need to print, scan, and copy efficiently. Its 35ppm speed is slightly lower than some competitors like the Brother MFC-L2820DW, but it compensates with reliable wireless connectivity and a 250-sheet input tray. The auto duplex feature saves paper, and the all-in-one setup simplifies workflows. However, it’s limited to cartridges with HP chips, which can be costly over time, and it’s not designed for high-volume printing. This device is ideal for small offices that prioritize all-in-one capabilities in a user-friendly package.Pros:- Fast printing speeds suitable for small teams
- Automatic duplex printing saves time and paper
- Reliable wireless connectivity for multiple devices
- All-in-one functionality (print, scan, copy)
Cons:- Limited to cartridges with HP chips or circuitry
- Not suitable for high-volume printing
Best for: Small teams requiring versatile printing, scanning, and copying from a reliable wireless device
Not ideal for: Offices with high-volume or color printing needs, or those seeking lower-cost toner options
- Print Speed:up to 35 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
Our verdict“A well-rounded all-in-one laser printer ideal for small teams focused on efficiency and convenience.”
Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier
The Brother MFC-L5915DW is tailored for offices with heavy printing and scanning needs, offering a robust 50ppm speed and a 70-page auto document feeder. Compared to models like the HL-6210DW, it emphasizes multifunctionality with fast copying and high-volume scanning, while maintaining a compact footprint. Its dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet provide flexible connectivity, and the high-yield toner options help control ongoing costs. The initial investment might be higher, and it’s limited to monochrome output, but for high-demand environments, this tradeoff is often justified. This device is best suited for busy, document-intensive workplaces that need speed and capacity combined.Pros:- Fast printing and copying speeds of 50 ppm
- High-volume scanning with a 70-page feeder
- Flexible wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- High-yield toner options lower running costs
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Potentially higher initial cost
Best for: Large, busy offices needing rapid, high-volume monochrome printing and scanning
Not ideal for: Small offices or teams needing color printing or minimal multifunction capabilities
- Print Speed:50 ppm
- Auto Document Feeder:70 pages
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi
- Toner Cartridge Capacity:18,000 pages (high-yield)
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
Our verdict“A high-capacity, ultra-fast monochrome all-in-one designed for demanding office workflows.”
How We Picked
The products were evaluated based on a combination of performance, ease of use, build quality, security features, and value. Priority was given to printers that deliver fast printing speeds, reliable connectivity options, and low maintenance costs. Models were also assessed for their multifunction capabilities and how well they balance initial investment against ongoing expenses. The ranking reflects a mix of these factors, favoring printers that excel in real-world office scenarios while considering budget-conscious choices for different user needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Business Laser Printer
Choosing the right business laser printer requires considering several key factors beyond just price. Understanding your office’s printing volume, required functionalities, and network needs helps identify the best fit. Additionally, paying attention to ongoing costs like toner and maintenance can prevent surprises later. This guide offers insights into what to prioritize and common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring you select a printer that meets your current and future demands.Print Speed and Volume Capacity
For a busy office, high print speeds reduce wait times and keep workflows flowing smoothly. Look for printers rated for at least 30 pages per minute if you handle large volumes regularly. Also, consider the paper capacity; larger trays mean fewer refills, which is particularly beneficial during high-demand periods. Balancing speed and capacity ensures your investment can handle your typical workload without frequent interruptions.
Connectivity and Mobile Printing
Modern office printers should support multiple connectivity options, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing solutions like AirPrint or Google Cloud Print. Reliable wireless connections are essential for flexible office setups, but compatibility issues can arise if the printer’s network features are poorly implemented. Verify that the printer integrates smoothly with your existing devices and network infrastructure to avoid headaches later.
Multifunction Features and Cost
Adding scan, copy, and fax capabilities increases a printer’s versatility but often raises the initial purchase price. Multi-function models are ideal for small to medium offices where space and equipment consolidation matter. However, ensure that these additional features do not compromise print speed or reliability. Also, consider long-term costs—multi-function printers with complex features may have higher toner and maintenance expenses.
Total Cost of Ownership
While initial costs are important, ongoing expenses like toner, drum replacements, and energy consumption significantly impact the overall value. Cheaper printers might seem appealing but can lead to higher per-page costs, diminishing savings over time. Focus on models with a reputation for low toner costs and high-yield cartridges to keep your budget in check for the lifespan of the device.
Build Quality and Security
For sensitive or confidential print jobs, security features such as secure boot, encrypted storage, and user authentication are vital. Higher-end models tend to offer better build quality, reducing downtime caused by jams or hardware failures. Investing in a sturdy, secure device can pay off through increased reliability and peace of mind, especially in environments with strict data protection requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide between a monochrome and color laser printer for my business?
Monochrome laser printers are generally more affordable and faster for black-and-white printing, making them ideal for text-heavy documents. If your business requires color printing for marketing materials, presentations, or branding, then a color laser printer becomes necessary, though it usually comes with higher purchase and toner costs. Consider your typical print volume and document types when making this choice to ensure your investment aligns with your needs.
Network connectivity and user management features are crucial in shared environments. A printer that supports multiple users with secure login options prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive information. Additionally, reliable wireless connectivity and straightforward setup help avoid bottlenecks. These features ensure smooth operation and security for everyone in the office.
Are multi-function printers worth the extra cost for a small business?
Multi-function printers can offer excellent value by consolidating printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing into a single device, saving space and reducing clutter. For small teams, this can streamline workflows and reduce the need for multiple devices. However, they tend to be more complex and may have higher maintenance costs, so assessing the actual volume of each function helps determine if the extra cost is justified.
How much should I expect to pay for a reliable business laser printer?
Prices vary widely based on features and capacity, but a dependable office laser printer typically costs between $200 and $800. Entry-level models are suitable for low-volume use, whereas more robust, multifunction models with higher speeds and security features tend to be priced toward the higher end. Investing in a quality device within this range generally offers better durability and lower long-term costs.
What maintenance should I expect with a laser printer, and how often?
Laser printers require periodic toner replacements, which depend on usage but typically occur every few thousand pages. Drum units and fuser assemblies may also need replacement after extensive use, often within 20,000 to 50,000 pages. Regular cleaning and firmware updates can prevent jams and improve performance. Choosing a model with easily accessible consumables and good support can make ongoing maintenance simpler and more economical.
Conclusion
For offices needing high-volume, reliable printing, the Brother HL-L6210DW stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its large paper capacity and security features. Small businesses or startups with budget constraints will appreciate the Brother HL-L2405W for its affordability and straightforward functionality. For those seeking a premium, multi-function device, the HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw offers fast speeds and versatile features suitable for busy teams. Beginners or those new to laser printing should consider models like the Brother DCP-L2640DW for simplicity without sacrificing core performance. Ultimately, your ideal choice depends on your specific volume, security needs, and budget constraints.
