Choosing the best color laser printer for a small business involves balancing print quality, speed, cost, and ease of use. The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw stands out as the top overall pick for its reliable performance and strong feature set. The Brother MFC-L8930CDW offers excellent versatility with its all-in-one capabilities, while the Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw provides compact design with robust features. Tradeoffs often come down to upfront costs versus ongoing maintenance, print speed versus quality, and size versus output volume. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options to help you find the best fit for your small business needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models combine fast printing speeds with reliable wireless connectivity, essential for small business workflows.
- All-in-one printers offer more value for businesses needing scanning, copying, and faxing, but often come with higher initial costs.
- Compact designs are available without sacrificing too much print quality, ideal for small office spaces.
- Tradeoffs between upfront price and ongoing toner costs are common, so consider total cost of ownership.
- Higher-end models excel in color accuracy and speed, but may be overkill for businesses with low-volume printing needs.
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Teams with Reliable Performance | Printer type: Laser | Output: Color | Print speed: Up to 26 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for High-Volume Small Businesses with Multi-Function Needs | Printer type: Laser | Functions: Print, copy, scan | Output: Color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer |  | Best Compact Choice for Small Offices and Home Spaces | Printer type: Laser | Output: Color | Print speed: Up to 27 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best All-in-One for Small Offices with High-Quality Color Output | Printer type: Color laser | Functions: Print, scan, copy | Print speed: Up to 26 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best Budget-Friendly Multi-Function for Small Offices | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | Print speed: Up to 19 ppm | Scan speed: Up to 29/22 ipm (black/color) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Fast, Reliable Color Printing | Printer type: Color laser | Functions: Print only | Print speed: Up to 26 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Duplex Printing |  | Best for Small Businesses Needing Cost-Effective Color Output and Flexibility | Printer type: Laser | Output: Color | Print speed: Up to 19 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Offices Needing a Complete Multifunction Solution | Brand: HP | Model: 3301sdw | Functions: Print, scan, copy | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| color laser printers for small businesse | Print speed | Connectivity | Printer type | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | Up to 26 pages per minute | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Laser | — |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | Up to 33 pages per minute | Dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet | Laser | Print, copy, scan |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | Up to 27 pages per minute | Wireless, Ethernet | Laser | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | Up to 26 pages per minute | Wireless; mobile printing via Canon PRINT, Apple AirPrint, Mopria | Color laser | Print, scan, copy |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | Up to 19 ppm | Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB | — | Print, scan, copy, fax |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C | Up to 26 pages per minute | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | Color laser | Print only |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless C | Up to 19 pages per minute | Wireless, network-ready | Laser | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | Up to 26 ppm black and color | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | — | Print, scan, copy |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
This model stands out for its balanced combination of speed, connectivity, and ease of use, making it ideal for small teams that need consistent color printing. It offers a solid print speed of up to 26 pages per minute, comparable to the Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw but with a slightly faster duplex printing feature. Its support for Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB ensures flexible connectivity, which is crucial for office environments. However, its reliance on original HP cartridges with chips can increase ongoing costs. Compared to the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, it lacks faxing but makes up for it with better print resolution and media versatility. This pick makes the most sense for small business teams that prioritize straightforward, reliable color output without complex multi-function needs.
Pros:- Reliable print speeds up to 26 pages per minute for color and black-and-white documents
- Automatic two-sided printing reduces paper waste
- Versatile connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB
Cons:- Requires cartridges with original HP chips, which can be costly over time
- Limited media handling options beyond standard sizes
Best for: Small office teams needing dependable color printing with moderate volume
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or home users with infrequent printing needs, due to its larger footprint and higher cartridge costs
- Printer type:Laser
- Output:Color
- Print speed:Up to 26 pages per minute
- Duplex printing:Automatic
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Input tray capacity:250 sheets
- Print resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Media types:Envelopes, glossy photo paper, high-resolution paper, plain paper
Our verdict“A well-rounded choice for small teams that need straightforward, fast color printing with reliable connectivity.”
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer
This printer excels in environments that demand high-speed printing, copying, and scanning, making it ideal for small businesses with heavy document workflows. Its impressive print and copy speeds of up to 33 pages per minute surpass most competitors like the HP 3201dw, especially when combined with two-sided scanning at 104 images per minute. Its large 80-page automatic document feeder streamlines multi-page jobs, and the 7-inch color touchscreen offers intuitive control. While it’s significantly heavier at 71.2 pounds, its advanced security features and wired/wireless options justify the bulk for businesses prioritizing efficiency. Compared to the Canon MF662Cdw, it provides faster scanning and copying, but with a higher price and larger footprint. This model makes the most sense for small offices that need robust, all-in-one capabilities and can accommodate its size.
Pros:- Fast printing, copying, and scanning with speeds up to 33 pages per minute
- Supports high-speed two-sided scanning with an automatic document feeder
- Offers comprehensive security features and multiple connectivity options
Cons:- Very large and heavy, requiring dedicated space
- Some cloud and scanning features depend on internet connectivity
Best for: Small business offices with high document throughput and security needs
Not ideal for: Small startups or solo entrepreneurs with limited space and lower volume requirements
- Printer type:Laser
- Functions:Print, copy, scan
- Output:Color
- Print speed:Up to 33 pages per minute
- Two-sided scan speed:Up to 104 images per minute
- Document feeder capacity:80 pages
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet
- Weight:71.2 pounds
Our verdict“A powerful all-in-one solution for small businesses that require speed, security, and multifunctionality in a single device.”
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer
This compact model offers a good balance of speed and versatility for small offices or home setups. Its 27 pages per minute print speed is slightly higher than some smaller models like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, but it doesn’t include scanning or copying functions, making it less suited for multi-tasking. The 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and its support for wireless, Ethernet, and mobile printing makes it flexible for varied environments. However, its limited media handling and lack of multi-function capabilities mean it’s best for single-purpose printing. Compared to the larger Brother MFC-L3720CDW, it’s more space-efficient but less versatile overall. It makes the most sense for users who primarily need fast, quality color prints in a small footprint without the need for scanning or faxing.
Pros:- Prints up to 27 pages per minute with reliable color quality
- Supports wireless, Ethernet, and mobile printing options
- Compact size fits well in limited space
Cons:- Limited to printing; no scanning or copying functions
- Supports only standard media sizes, with limited media handling
Best for: Small offices or home users prioritizing compact size and color quality for printing only
Not ideal for: Businesses that need scanning, copying, or faxing functions, or larger media handling
- Printer type:Laser
- Output:Color
- Print speed:Up to 27 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Weight:33.9 pounds
- Supported media:Card stock, envelopes, glossy photo paper, labels, plain paper
Our verdict“An excellent choice for users who need a space-efficient, fast color printer for single-purpose document printing.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer
This all-in-one from Canon offers a compelling blend of quality, speed, and longevity, making it suitable for small offices that need reliable printing, scanning, and copying in a single device. Its 26 pages per minute speed is comparable to the HP 3201dw but with added multifunctionality, including a flatbed scanner for versatile document handling. The 5-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation, and its 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind. Although it weighs 55.1 pounds—less than the Brother MFC-L8930CDW—it still requires a dedicated space. The Canon model is a good middle ground, offering high-quality output and multifunctionality without the bulk of larger office printers. Compared with the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, it emphasizes better color quality and a longer warranty, but at a higher initial investment. It’s perfect for small offices focusing on consistent, high-quality color documents with multifunction needs.
Pros:- Fast color printing up to 26 pages per minute
- Includes scanning and copying functions with a flatbed scanner
- Large 5-inch color touchscreen and 3-year warranty
Cons:- Heavy at over 55 pounds, requiring dedicated space
- Standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, with a single-sheet multipurpose tray
Best for: Small offices requiring high-quality color printing along with scanning and copying
Not ideal for: Solo users or startups with very limited space or infrequent multi-function use
- Printer type:Color laser
- Functions:Print, scan, copy
- Print speed:Up to 26 pages per minute
- First print time:Approximately 10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless; mobile printing via Canon PRINT, Apple AirPrint, Mopria
- Display:5-inch color touchscreen
- Media capacity:250-sheet cassette
- Warranty:3-year limited
Our verdict“A reliable, high-quality all-in-one choice for small offices prioritizing multifunctionality and longevity.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
This all-in-one from Brother offers a practical balance between cost and functionality, making it suitable for small offices with moderate document needs. Its print speed of up to 19 pages per minute is slower than others like the HP 3201dw or Canon MF662Cdw, but it includes scanning, copying, and faxing, providing a full suite of office functions. The 3.5-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation, and its dual-band wireless plus USB connectivity ensures flexible setup. Its 50-sheet document feeder and 250-sheet paper tray support daily workflows, though the slower print speed may be a limiting factor for high-volume environments. Compared to the Canon MF662Cdw, it’s more affordable but offers slightly less speed and fewer advanced security features. This printer makes sense for small businesses seeking a budget-friendly, multifunction device that covers essential office tasks.
Pros:- Prints, scans, copies, and faxes in one device
- Automatic duplex printing and a 50-sheet document feeder
- Supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB
Cons:- Slower print speed of up to 19 pages per minute
- Limited to moderate daily volume due to speed and paper capacity
Best for: Small businesses needing all-in-one functionality on a budget with moderate volume
Not ideal for: High-volume printers or businesses requiring rapid throughput and advanced security
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Print speed:Up to 19 ppm
- Scan speed:Up to 29/22 ipm (black/color)
- Paper capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic document feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
- Warranty:1-year limited
Our verdict“A capable, budget-conscious multifunction printer suited for small offices with moderate document flows.”
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer
This model stands out for its high print speed of up to 26 pages per minute, making it ideal for busy small office environments. Unlike the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, which offers all-in-one functionality, the Canon is a dedicated print-only device, which simplifies operation and can reduce potential points of failure. Its support for wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity ensures flexible setup, but the absence of scanning or copying limits its use to printing alone. The 250-sheet paper capacity and automatic duplex printing help sustain productivity, though the single-sheet multipurpose tray can be a bottleneck if frequent media swaps are needed. Overall, this printer is suited for teams that prioritize speed and volume over multifunctionality, with straightforward operation and reliable color output.
Pros:- Prints color and monochrome documents at up to 26 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided printing reduces paper use
- Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections for flexible setup
- 250-sheet standard paper capacity
Cons:- Lacks scanning, copying, and faxing functions, limiting its versatility
- Multipurpose tray holds only one sheet, requiring frequent media loading
Best for: Small businesses or home offices focused solely on fast, high-quality color printing with minimal multifunction needs
Not ideal for: Organizations requiring scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities, or those needing frequent media switching due to the single-sheet multipurpose tray
- Printer type:Color laser
- Functions:Print only
- Print speed:Up to 26 pages per minute
- First print time:Approximately 10.3 seconds
- Paper capacity:250-sheet cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
- Resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Dimensions:16.5 x 16.8 x 10.5 inches
- Weight:27.6 pounds
Our verdict“This printer is best for small offices that need fast, reliable color printing without the need for multifunction features.”
Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Duplex Printing
Compared with the Canon LBP646Cdw, the Brother HL-L3220CDW offers a slightly lower print speed of 19 pages per minute but compensates with a more versatile paper handling system, including a manual feed slot for specialty media like labels or envelopes. Its support for wireless and mobile printing makes it a strong choice for small teams that want easy connectivity, yet it remains a print-only device, similar to the Canon, so it isn’t suitable for those needing scanning or copying. The 250-sheet paper tray and 150-sheet output tray help manage moderate workloads, but the resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi ensures sharp color and monochrome documents. Its lower speed is a tradeoff for better media flexibility and potentially lower running costs, making it well-suited for offices with diverse printing needs but less urgency in high-volume output.
Pros:- Prints color documents at up to 19 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper consumption
- Supports wireless, mobile printing, and a manual feed for specialty media
- 250-sheet paper tray with additional manual media support
Cons:- No scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities
- Output tray holds only 150 sheets, which may require frequent emptying
Best for: Small teams requiring flexible media options and cost-effective color printing without multifunction features
Not ideal for: Offices that need scanning, copying, or fast high-volume output, or users who prioritize speed over media versatility
- Printer type:Laser
- Output:Color
- Print speed:Up to 19 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, network-ready
- Duplex printing:Automatic
- Paper tray capacity:250 sheets
- Resolution:2400 x 600
- Dimensions:15.7 x 15.7 x 9.4 inches
- Weight:24.7 pounds
Our verdict“Ideal for small businesses that value media flexibility and cost efficiency over maximum printing speed.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
Compared to the Canon and Brother options, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw provides the most comprehensive set of functions—printing, scanning, and copying—in a single device. Its automatic document feeder and flatbed scanner streamline multi-page document handling, making it ideal for small offices with diverse document workflows. The 26 pages per minute speed matches the Canon model’s pace but adds the convenience of all-in-one functionality, though it comes with a heavier weight of nearly 38 pounds, which could complicate placement or relocation. Its support for both wireless and Ethernet connectivity offers versatile network integration, but it requires cartridges with chips or circuitry, which might increase ongoing costs. This device is best suited for teams that need a multifunction printer with reliable speed and connectivity, despite the larger footprint and slightly higher complexity.
Pros:- Prints, scans, and copies in one device, streamlining workflow
- Automatic duplex printing and document feeder improve efficiency
- Supports wireless and Ethernet connections for flexible setup
- 250-sheet input tray handles moderate workloads
Cons:- Heavy at 37.7 pounds, making relocation or setup more cumbersome
- Cartridges may require specific HP chips or circuitry, possibly increasing costs
Best for: Small offices needing an all-in-one device for printing, scanning, and copying with reliable wireless connectivity
Not ideal for: Businesses primarily focused on high-volume printing or with limited space, due to its weight and multifunction nature
- Brand:HP
- Model:3301sdw
- Functions:Print, scan, copy
- Print speed:Up to 26 ppm black and color
- Input tray capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Resolution:600 × 600 dpi
- Dimensions:16.46 × 13.44 × 16.5 inches
- Weight:37.7 pounds
Our verdict“This all-in-one is a strong choice for small offices seeking an integrated device with reliable speed and connectivity, despite its size and complexity.”
How We Picked
The evaluation process focused on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance costs, and versatility. We prioritized printers that deliver consistent color quality and fast output times, essential for small business operations. Ease of setup and ongoing maintenance were also key factors, ensuring that the options are practical for small teams without dedicated IT support. We ranked products based on a balanced combination of initial investment, running costs, feature sets, and customer support reputation, aiming to recommend models that suit a variety of small business needs and budgets.| color laser printers for small businesse | Printer type | Print speed | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw W | Laser | Up to 26 pages per minute | — |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | Laser | Up to 33 pages per minute | Print, copy, scan |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | Laser | Up to 27 pages per minute | — |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | Color laser | Up to 26 pages per minute | Print, scan, copy |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | — | Up to 19 ppm | Print, scan, copy, fax |
| Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646C | Color laser | Up to 26 pages per minute | Print only |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless C | Laser | Up to 19 pages per minute | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | — | Up to 26 ppm black and color | Print, scan, copy |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Color Laser Printers For Small Businesses
When selecting the best color laser printer for a small business, understanding your specific needs is crucial. Key factors like volume, print quality, and connectivity options influence which model offers the best value. Considering long-term costs such as toner replacement and maintenance can prevent surprises. Additionally, features like duplex printing and scanning capabilities add convenience but may impact the overall price. The right choice balances your immediate requirements with future growth potential, ensuring the printer remains a valuable asset over time.Print Volume and Speed
Assess your typical weekly printing volume to determine whether you need a high-capacity model. Small businesses with frequent color printing should prioritize printers with faster speeds and larger toner capacities to avoid bottlenecks. However, high-volume models tend to be more expensive upfront, so consider whether your volume justifies the investment. For occasional printing, a more affordable, slower model might suffice, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses while still meeting your needs.
Color Quality and Accuracy
Color fidelity is vital if your business relies on marketing materials, product images, or professional presentations. Look for printers that specify high-resolution color output and consistent color management. Some models may produce vibrant colors but at the cost of slower speeds or higher toner prices. For businesses needing highly accurate color, investing in a premium model may pay off in the quality of printed materials, but for general use, mid-range options often strike a good balance.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and network integration simplify workflows, especially in shared office environments. Consider how easily the printer integrates with your existing systems—compatibility with cloud services and mobile apps can save time. User interface matters, too; intuitive controls and touchscreen displays reduce setup time and minimize user errors. Avoid models with overly complex interfaces if your team values simplicity and quick operation.
Cost of Ownership
Initial purchase price is just part of the total cost. Toner cartridges for color laser printers can be expensive, so check the yield ratings and the cost per page. Some models use high-yield cartridges that lower ongoing expenses, which benefits businesses with high-volume needs. Additionally, factor in maintenance costs, such as drum replacements and energy consumption, to get a clear picture of the long-term investment.
Size and Placement
Small businesses often operate in limited spaces, making compact design a key consideration. Look for printers that fit comfortably on desks or shelves without sacrificing essential features. Vertical or all-in-one models can save space while providing multifunctionality. Remember that larger, high-capacity printers may offer better performance but require dedicated space and proper ventilation, so weigh your spatial constraints carefully.
Additional Features
Features like duplex printing, scanning, copying, and faxing enhance productivity but can increase costs. Decide which extras truly add value to your workflow. For instance, duplex printing saves paper and reduces costs, while scanning and copying extend the printer’s functionality. Be cautious of overly feature-rich models if your primary need is straightforward color printing, as they might not justify the higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I expect to spend on a good color laser printer for small business?
Prices vary depending on features and performance levels, but for a reliable model with good color quality and speed, expect to spend between $300 and $800. Budget models tend to have slower speeds and fewer features, while mid-range options balance performance and cost effectively. Higher-end models with advanced features and higher page yields will go beyond this range, so consider your volume and feature needs carefully to avoid overpaying for unnecessary extras.
Are all-in-one color laser printers worth the extra cost?
All-in-one models provide scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, making them versatile tools for small businesses. If your workflow involves frequent document digitization or multi-function tasks, they can save space and simplify operations. However, they often come with higher initial costs and potential maintenance challenges. For low-volume or print-only needs, a dedicated printer might be more cost-effective, but for dynamic offices, the added functionality often justifies the expense.
How important is wireless connectivity for small business printers?
Wireless connectivity is highly beneficial for small teams that share a single printer across multiple devices and locations. It simplifies setup, reduces cable clutter, and allows for mobile printing from smartphones or tablets. If your business relies on remote or flexible work arrangements, choosing a model with robust wireless features can significantly improve workflow. However, ensure your network security is configured properly to prevent unauthorized access.
Should I prioritize print speed or print quality?
This depends on your primary use case. For high-volume printing with quick turnaround times, speed is often more critical. If your business produces marketing materials or detailed graphics, prioritize models with higher resolution and color accuracy. Some printers offer a good balance, providing decent speed without sacrificing too much quality. Carefully consider your typical print job to find a model that offers the right blend of both.
What are common mistakes small businesses make when choosing a color laser printer?
One common mistake is focusing solely on the initial purchase price without considering ongoing costs like toner and maintenance. Another is buying a printer that is too large or too small for the expected volume, leading to inefficiency or frequent replacements. Overestimating the need for advanced features can also inflate costs unnecessarily. To avoid these pitfalls, evaluate total cost of ownership, match printer capacity to your volume, and prioritize features that directly support your workflow.
Conclusion
For small businesses seeking the best overall balance of performance and ease of use, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw makes a compelling choice. Those prioritizing value and lower ongoing costs might prefer the Brother HL-L3220CDW. For offices that need multifunctionality and higher volume capacity, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW stands out. Beginners or smaller setups should consider models with simpler interfaces, while larger or more graphic-focused businesses will benefit from premium options with superior color accuracy. Matching your specific workflow and budget will lead you to the ideal printer for your small business in 2027.
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