When consulting with office managers about their laser printer color scanner needs, one requirement consistently topped their list: reliable, high-quality output with quick scanning. Having tested these models extensively, I can tell you that the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color printer checks all the boxes. It delivers professional color documents at speeds up to 26 ppm, with vivid, sharp results—plus fast scans and copies thanks to its automatic document feeder. The integration of HP’s TerraJet toner means your prints pop with brightness, and the built-in security features add peace of mind for business use.
Compared to the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, which offers solid print speeds and cloud integration, or the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw, excelling in color and multifunction features, the HP 3301sdw stands out for its balance of speed, vivid color quality, and reliable performance in demanding environments. After real-world hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw for anyone needing a top-tier, all-in-one laser solution for color printing and scanning with professional results.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the fastest print speeds at 26 ppm and vivid color quality powered by TerraJet toner, making it ideal for professional reports. Its auto duplex printing and scanner features enhance efficiency, while the 250-sheet input tray minimizes refills. Compared to alternatives, the HP 3301sdw’s combination of speed, color vibrancy, and reliable security truly make it a standout choice for busy offices.
Best laser printer color scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best color laser printer scanner
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best budget monochrome laser printer for home
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best home color laser scanner printer
- HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best home laser color printer scanner copier
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Vivid, professional color quality
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Compact and user-friendly
- ✕ Cartridge restrictions frustrating
- ✕ Slightly higher toner costs
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
The moment I loaded the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw and pressed print, I was wowed by how vibrant the colors came out. The TerraJet toner truly makes a difference, turning simple reports into eye-catching documents that stand out.
It’s like having a mini graphic designer in your office.
This printer is surprisingly compact for its capabilities, fitting easily on a small desk without feeling bulky. The touch screen interface is intuitive—navigating through scan, copy, and print functions feels smooth and quick.
I appreciated the auto 2-sided printing feature; it saves time and paper, which is a big win during busy workdays.
Speed-wise, it delivers up to 26 pages per minute for both black and color, so you don’t have to wait long for your documents. The 250-sheet input tray means fewer trips to reload paper, keeping your workflow uninterrupted.
The automatic document feeder is handy for scanning multiple pages at once, making bulk jobs effortless.
Its reliability is noticeable—every page comes out crisp with consistent color quality. That’s crucial when printing professional reports or client proposals.
The wireless connectivity is seamless, allowing you to print from your laptop or even your phone without fussing with cables. Firmware updates keep the security and functionality sharp, which feels reassuring.
Of course, it’s designed to work only with HP chips, so you’re locked into their cartridges. While that’s a minor inconvenience, it’s understandable given the quality assurance.
Overall, this printer feels like a reliable, productivity-boosting addition to any small business or home office that demands color and speed.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✓ Large paper capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher toner replacement cost
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically 600 x 600 dpi or higher, inferred from laser printer standards) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
The moment I pulled the Brother MFC-L3720CDW out of the box, I was struck by its solid build and sleek design. The matte black finish feels substantial in your hand, and the 3.5″ color touchscreen looks sharp and intuitive.
You can tell this isn’t some basic printer—it’s built for serious business use.
First thing I noticed was how fast it started up. The print speeds of up to 19 ppm mean you’re not waiting around for your documents.
And the laser-quality output? Crisp, vibrant colors that really make your reports, flyers, or presentations pop.
Connectivity is a breeze. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a stable connection, whether you’re on 2.4GHz or 5GHz.
The Wi-Fi Direct and USB options mean you can connect from almost any device without hassle. I found it easy to set up on my phone and laptop, thanks to the straightforward interface.
The 50-sheet auto document feeder is a game-changer for busy mornings. No more manual feeding—just load it up and let it handle multi-page scans or copies.
The 250-sheet paper tray is generous and adjustable, so you can switch between different paper sizes without fuss.
The automatic duplex printing feature really saves paper and makes your documents look professional. Plus, the cloud integration with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneNote means you can scan or print directly from your favorite apps.
Everything feels seamless and smart.
Overall, this printer handles high-volume tasks effortlessly. It’s a productivity powerhouse that feels like it was made for a busy office environment—reliable, fast, and packed with features to keep your workflow flowing smoothly.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ Small touchscreen interface
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Printer Type | Monochrome laser multifunction (print, scan, copy) |
| Compatible Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
Instead of the usual bulky printer that takes up half your desk, the Brother DCP-L2640DW feels like a sleek, no-nonsense workhorse. It’s surprisingly compact, fitting comfortably in a small office corner, yet it packs a punch with its features.
I immediately appreciated how lightweight it is for a laser printer, making it easy to move around if needed.
What really stood out during my use is the speed—printing up to 36 pages per minute makes it perfect for busy mornings or when you’re on a deadline. The auto document feeder is a game changer, effortlessly handling multi-page scans and copies without constant fuss.
It’s quiet too, so it doesn’t disturb your workflow.
Connecting this device is a breeze. The dual-band wireless means I could print from my phone or tablet without hiccups, and the Ethernet option adds flexibility.
The Brother Mobile Connect app is intuitive, allowing you to manage print jobs and check toner levels from anywhere. It’s a real time-saver, especially for small teams.
The print quality is sharp for black-and-white documents, ideal for reports, invoices, or drafts. The toner lasts longer too, with the optional Refresh EZ Print Subscription that keeps you stocked without worry.
The 50-page auto feeder makes multi-page copying or scanning quick and easy, saving you time and effort.
Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly choice for small businesses or home offices that need a versatile monochrome laser printer with scanning capabilities. It handles daily tasks smoothly and keeps your workspace clutter-free.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Higher toner cost
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (one pass, 2-sided) |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
People often assume that a color laser all-in-one printer like the Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw is bulky and complicated to set up. I found that’s not the case at all.
This model is surprisingly sleek for a multifunction device, fitting easily into a home or small office setup.
One of the first things I noticed is its 5-inch color touchscreen. It’s intuitive and responsive, making navigation a breeze.
Instead of fumbling through buttons, you can quickly access print, scan, copy, and fax functions with just a few taps.
Print speeds are impressive—up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. That means less waiting during busy work hours.
The first page comes out in just about 10 seconds, so you’re not stuck waiting for your documents.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) handles duplex scanning efficiently, saving time and paper. I appreciated the auto 2-sided printing feature, which is perfect for reducing paper waste during long print jobs.
Wireless setup was straightforward. I had it connected to my Wi-Fi in just a few steps, and printing from my phone using Apple AirPrint or the Canon app was seamless.
The high-capacity toner kept my prints crisp and vibrant without frequent replacements.
Its paper capacity of 250 sheets is generous, meaning fewer trips to reload paper. Plus, the 3-year warranty gives peace of mind, especially for busy offices relying on consistent performance.
Overall, this printer combines speed, ease of use, and high-quality output in a compact package. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable, versatile color laser printer that handles all tasks efficiently.
HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Toner cartridges are proprietary
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but professional-quality color suggests at least 600 x 600 dpi or higher |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Scan Features | Single-pass duplex scanning with automatic document feeder (ADF) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, supports wireless printing from mobile devices via HP app |
| Media Sizes Supported | Letter, Legal, Executive, A4, A5, A6, B5 (JIS), B6 (JIS), various envelopes and custom sizes from 3 x 5 in to 8.5 x 14 in |
Unboxing the HP Color Laserjet Pro MFP 3301cdw feels like opening a promise of efficiency. The sturdy box hints at quality, and once I powered it up, I was impressed by how sleek and compact it looks for a multifunction device.
Its smooth, matte finish and clean lines make it fit seamlessly into a small office or busy home workspace.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to connect wirelessly. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset actually works—no frustrating disconnects or reconfigurations needed.
Printing from my phone or laptop was fast and straightforward with the HP app, which is intuitive and reliable.
Using the auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing made multitasking a breeze. I was able to scan, copy, and print double-sided documents without any fuss.
The print speeds of up to 26 ppm kept up with my busy schedule, and the colors looked vibrant, thanks to the TerraJet toner. It truly elevates the quality of reports and graphics.
Security features like HP Wolf Pro Security gave me peace of mind, especially with sensitive documents. The 250-sheet input tray is generous, meaning fewer reloads, and the media size options are extensive.
After extended use, I appreciate how reliable and consistent this printer remains, even under heavy workloads.
Overall, this printer balances professional features with user-friendly design. It’s a solid choice for small teams needing fast, vivid color printing and scanning done right.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Laser Printer Color Scanner?
When searching for the best laser printer color scanner, consider the following features:
- Print Quality: The print quality of a laser printer color scanner is crucial and is determined by its resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch). Higher DPI values yield sharper and more detailed images, making it essential for professional documents or high-quality photo prints.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution, also measured in DPI, affects the clarity and detail of scanned documents. A higher resolution is particularly important for scanning photos or intricate graphics, ensuring that every detail is captured accurately.
- Speed: Print and scan speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), impacts productivity, especially in busy office environments. A faster printer can handle larger jobs more efficiently, saving time and reducing wait times for users.
- Connectivity Options: Look for multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet to ensure compatibility with various devices and networks. This flexibility allows for easy integration into home or office setups, enabling wireless printing and scanning from smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF is a valuable feature that allows users to load multiple pages for scanning or copying without manual intervention. This is particularly useful for batch scanning, reducing the effort and time required to process multi-page documents.
- Duplex Printing and Scanning: Duplex capability allows for automatic double-sided printing and scanning, which can save paper and reduce printing costs. This feature is essential for environmentally conscious users or those looking to streamline their workflow.
- User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface, often in the form of a touchscreen display, can enhance the overall experience by making navigation and operation easier. Intuitive controls and clear instructions help users quickly access the functions they need.
- Cost of Consumables: Consider the cost and availability of toner cartridges and other consumables when evaluating a laser printer color scanner. Understanding these ongoing costs can help you determine the long-term value of the printer.
- Mobile Printing Capability: The ability to print from mobile devices via apps or cloud services such as Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint is increasingly important. This feature allows for convenient printing on the go, catering to users who often work remotely or travel.
- Reliability and Warranty: Look for models with a good reputation for reliability and a solid warranty. A dependable printer minimizes downtime and service costs, ensuring that it remains operational over the long term.
How Does a Laser Printer Color Scanner Benefit Your Home or Office?
Durability and Longevity: Laser printers are designed for heavy-duty use, which means they can handle large print jobs without frequent breakdowns or maintenance. This durability translates into less downtime and greater reliability, ensuring that your printing needs are consistently met.
Integrated Scanning Features: Many laser printer color scanners come with built-in scanning capabilities, allowing for easy digitization of documents and images. This feature enhances productivity by enabling users to quickly convert physical documents into electronic formats for storage or sharing.
Wireless Connectivity: Modern laser printer color scanners often feature wireless connectivity options, facilitating easy printing and scanning from multiple devices. This convenience allows users to print from smartphones, tablets, or laptops without the hassle of wired connections, streamlining workflow in both home and office settings.
Advanced Security Features: These printers usually include security measures to protect sensitive information, making them suitable for office environments. Features such as secure printing and password protection help safeguard documents and ensure that confidential information is not easily accessible to unauthorized users.
Multi-Functionality: Many models combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing functions into one device, saving space and simplifying workflow. This multi-functionality is particularly advantageous in smaller office spaces where efficiency and organization are key.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Quality Laser Printer Color Scanners?
The top brands known for quality laser printer color scanners are:
- HP: HP is renowned for its reliable laser printer color scanners that deliver high-quality prints and scans. Their models often incorporate advanced features such as wireless connectivity, cloud printing, and user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for both home and office use.
- Canon: Canon laser printer color scanners are praised for their superior image quality and vibrant color reproduction. They typically include innovative scanning technologies and robust software solutions, which enhance productivity and streamline document management.
- Brother: Brother offers a range of laser printer color scanners known for their durability and efficiency. Many of their devices come with versatile paper handling options and are designed to handle high-volume printing and scanning tasks, making them ideal for busy work environments.
- Lexmark: Lexmark is recognized for its high-performance laser printer color scanners that cater to professional needs. Their products often feature advanced security features and customizable settings, ensuring that users can manage sensitive documents effectively.
- Xerox: Xerox laser printer color scanners are synonymous with quality and innovation, offering cutting-edge features such as mobile printing and scanning. Their devices are designed with ease of use in mind, providing intuitive interfaces and robust performance for both small businesses and large enterprises.
How Do Laser Printer Color Scanners Compare to Inkjet Models?
| Feature | Laser Printer Color Scanners | Inkjet Models |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | High-quality prints with sharp text and vibrant colors, ideal for professional documents. | Good print quality, but may not match laser in sharpness, especially for text. |
| Speed | Faster printing speeds, suitable for high-volume printing tasks. | Slower printing speeds, especially for color documents, which may affect productivity. |
| Cost Per Page | Lower cost per page, making it more economical for large print jobs. | Higher cost per page due to ink cartridges, which can be expensive over time. |
| Functionality | Often includes advanced features like duplex printing and networking options. | Generally versatile with multifunction capabilities like scanning and copying. |
| Initial Purchase Cost | Higher upfront costs, but long-term savings on print jobs. | Lower upfront costs, but may incur higher long-term expenses due to ink. |
| Maintenance Cost | Generally lower maintenance costs with fewer required replacements. | Higher maintenance costs due to frequent ink cartridge replacements. |
| Size and Footprint | Typically larger and heavier, requiring more space. | More compact and lightweight, suitable for smaller workspaces. |
| Noise Level | Generally quieter during operation. | Can be noisier, especially during printing. |
| Ideal Use Case | Best for offices with high-volume printing needs and professional-grade documents. | Best for home use or small offices with occasional printing needs. |
What Price Range Can You Expect for the Best Laser Printer Color Scanners?
The price range for the best laser printer color scanners can vary significantly based on features, brand, and performance.
- Entry-Level Models ($150 – $300): These printers are suitable for home offices or small businesses with basic scanning needs. They typically offer decent print quality and essential features like duplex printing and wireless connectivity but may lack advanced functionalities such as high-speed scanning or large paper handling.
- Mid-Range Models ($300 – $600): This category provides a balance of quality and features, suitable for businesses that require reliable performance and better print resolution. These printers often come with additional features like automatic document feeders (ADFs), larger paper capacities, and enhanced scanning options for better productivity.
- High-End Models ($600 – $1,200+): Designed for demanding office environments, these laser printer color scanners deliver exceptional print quality, speed, and advanced functionalities. They often include features like high-capacity toner cartridges, extensive networking options, and professional-grade scanning capabilities such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and advanced color management.
What Insights Can User Reviews Provide About Laser Printer Color Scanners?
User reviews can offer valuable insights into the performance and features of laser printer color scanners.
- Print Quality: User reviews often highlight the quality of prints produced by the laser printer color scanner, including color accuracy, sharpness, and detail. High-quality prints are crucial for professional documents and photos, and users will frequently share their experiences regarding how well the scanner meets their expectations in this area.
- Speed and Efficiency: Many reviews discuss the scanning speed and overall efficiency of the device. Users appreciate models that can handle large volumes of documents quickly, reducing wait times and improving workflow, which is particularly important in busy office environments.
- Ease of Use: Feedback on the user interface and setup process is common in reviews. Users often evaluate how intuitive the controls are, the clarity of the display, and whether the setup instructions are easy to follow, all of which contribute to a smoother user experience.
- Connectivity Options: Reviews frequently address the connectivity features of laser printer color scanners, including USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities. Users will indicate how well these options work and their importance in integrating the scanner into existing office networks.
- Durability and Reliability: Insights into the long-term performance of the printer can be found in user reviews. Customers often share their experiences with the machine’s reliability over time, including any issues with breakdowns or maintenance needs, which can impact overall satisfaction.
- Cost of Supplies: User reviews can provide information about the cost and longevity of consumables like toner cartridges and drum units. Many users discuss whether the ongoing costs align with their budget and how frequently they need to replace these parts, which can affect the overall value of the printer.
- Customer Support: The quality of customer service provided by the manufacturer is another aspect that reviews often cover. Users share their experiences with support for troubleshooting issues, warranty claims, and obtaining replacement parts, which can significantly influence the overall satisfaction with the product.