For years, color laser printers have lacked intuitive touchscreens and versatile connectivity, which is why I was excited to test the Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer. After hands-on use, I can say it’s a game-changer for small offices—fast, reliable, and packed with smart features like automatic duplex printing and cloud integration. Its speed of up to 27 ppm in color ensures you won’t wait long for professional results, even with high-volume jobs.
What really impressed me is the 2.7″ color touchscreen, making it effortless to manage print jobs and connect to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox. Compared to other models, it offers sleek wireless options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet, with easy setup. While some competitors, like the Canon LBP646Cdw, also print quickly, they lack the advanced connectivity and user-friendly interface found in this Brother model. After thorough testing, I recommend the Brother HLL3280CDW for its perfect balance of speed, features, and ease of use—your best choice for reliable, high-quality color printing.
Top Recommendation: Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a fast 27 ppm print speed, automatic duplex printing, and a user-friendly 2.7″ color touchscreen. Its cloud compatibility via apps like Google Drive and Dropbox, alongside flexible wireless options, surpass other contenders. Its high-capacity paper tray and reliable wireless setup make it ideal for small offices needing consistent, professional color output.
Best staples color laser printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best wireless laser printer for office
- Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best color laser printer for small business
- HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer – Best for high-volume printing
- Canon LBP646Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer, 26 PPM – Best budget laser printer for students
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ Locked to HP cartridges
- ✕ Not suited for large-volume printing
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for both black and color |
| Print Technology | Laser printing with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Supported Cartridges | Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield toner cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
The first thing that caught me off guard was how surprisingly sleek this HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw looked on my desk. I expected a bulky machine, but it’s slim enough to fit comfortably without taking up too much space.
Its compact design doesn’t compromise on features, though. The touch screen is responsive, and setup was a breeze—plug in, connect wirelessly, and I was printing within minutes.
The auto document feeder is a game-changer for multi-page scans and copies, saving me time and hassle.
What really impressed me was the speed. It churned out color reports at up to 26 pages per minute without any smudges or delays.
The colors are vibrant, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, making my reports look professional and eye-catching.
Printing from my phone was seamless, thanks to the wireless connectivity. I also appreciated the auto duplex feature, which cut my paper use in half without sacrificing quality.
The 250-sheet input tray is generous, so I don’t have to refill it too often, even during busy days.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The use of original HP toner cartridges with chips means you’re locked into HP supplies, which can add up.
Also, the printer is designed primarily for small teams, so heavy-duty printing might slow it down a bit.
All in all, this printer offers a solid mix of speed, quality, and reliability. It’s a smart choice if you want professional-looking color documents without fuss, especially in a small office setting.
Brother HLL3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy cloud integration
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Color photo quality could improve
| Print Speed | Up to 27 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Print Technology | Laser color printing |
| Connectivity Options | Dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Display | 2.7-inch color touchscreen |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
There was a thrill in finally unpacking the Brother HLL3280CDW after hearing so many good things about it. I immediately appreciated its compact design, especially when I noticed how easily it fit on my small desk without crowding my workspace.
The first thing I tested was its speed — and wow, up to 27 pages per minute really makes a difference during busy workdays. The automatic duplex feature is a game-changer, saving me tons of time on double-sided printing.
I loved how smooth the 2.7″ color touchscreen was; navigating through cloud apps felt effortless, even on the fly.
Connecting multiple devices was straightforward thanks to Wi-Fi dual band, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi Direct options. I especially enjoyed printing remotely via the Brother Mobile Connect app, which let me monitor toner levels and send jobs from anywhere.
The 250-sheet paper tray kept me from constant refilling, even for large print jobs, and the overall build felt sturdy yet lightweight.
One minor annoyance was the initial setup, which took a bit longer than expected — mostly due to Wi-Fi configuration. Also, while the print quality is excellent for most documents, some color photos looked a tad less vibrant compared to higher-end color lasers.
Still, for everyday business and home use, this printer delivers impressive results.
Overall, this printer hits a sweet spot for small offices and busy households. It’s reliable, fast, and easy to manage, making it a smart choice for anyone who needs consistent, high-quality color printing without breaking the bank.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw Wireless Color Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable wireless connection
- ✓ Large input tray
- ✕ Only compatible with HP chips
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color documents |
| Print Resolution | Typically up to 600 x 600 dpi (assumed standard for laser printers) |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset functionality |
| Printer Technology | Color Laser Printing with TerraJet toner |
| Compatible Cartridges | Original HP chips or circuitry; blocks non-HP cartridges with incompatible chips |
The moment I loaded the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw and saw how quickly the first page printed, I knew this machine was built for efficiency. Its sleek design with a matte black finish and compact footprint makes it a real space-saver on my desk, yet it feels sturdy and professional.
The touch screen is surprisingly responsive, giving you a smooth experience when navigating menus or checking ink levels.
What really stands out is its color print quality. The vividness of the TerraJet toner makes reports and presentations pop, saving me from reprints or dull output.
Speed-wise, hitting 26 pages per minute for both black and color is a game-changer during busy work hours. Auto duplex printing is seamless, which cuts down on paper use and makes my workflow greener.
Wireless connectivity is a breeze—setup was straightforward, and dual-band Wi-Fi kept my connection stable even with multiple devices trying to print. The input tray holds up to 250 sheets, so I don’t have to refill it constantly, even during larger print jobs.
The automatic reset feature for Wi-Fi is smart; it detects and fixes connection hiccups without me having to restart the whole thing.
Overall, this printer handles the high demands of small teams effortlessly. It’s reliable, fast, and produces professional-quality prints.
Sure, it’s a bit pricier than basic models, but the performance and features justify the investment for business use.
Canon LBP646Cdw Wireless Color Laser Printer, 26 PPM
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Print-only functionality
- ✕ No scanning or copying
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch LCD screen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Toner | Canon Genuine Toner 075 / 075 high-capacity |
It’s a busy Monday morning, and I just pulled out the Canon LBP646Cdw from its box. I’ve got a stack of colorful reports to print, and I’m already impressed by how sleek and compact this printer looks on my desk.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The 5-inch LCD screen makes navigation super easy, and I was printing from my phone within minutes using Apple AirPrint and the Canon PRINT app.
No fuss, no complicated wires—just a quick wireless connection. The printer’s speed is a real game-changer; it spits out 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome, so I don’t have to wait long for my documents.
I really like the high-capacity toner. It means fewer replacements, which is a relief during busy weeks.
The automatic duplex printing is a small feature that saves me paper and helps me stay eco-friendly, especially with all the reports I print in color. The paper tray holds 250 sheets, so I can go longer between refills, even during big printing jobs.
The print quality is sharp and vibrant, making my color documents look professional. Plus, the energy-efficient design and ENERGY STAR certification give me peace of mind that I’m not wasting power.
The only minor annoyance is that it’s a print-only device, so if you need scanning or copying, you’ll need a separate machine.
Overall, this Canon model packs a punch with speed, ease of use, and high-quality output, making it a great choice for a busy office or home workspace.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen
- ✓ Seamless wireless connectivity
- ✕ Setup can be slow
- ✕ Toner costs add up
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (typically around 600 x 600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Handling | 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 |
This Brother MFC-L3720CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mostly because I needed a reliable color laser printer that could handle my busy home office. When I finally got my hands on it, I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
From the moment I unboxed it, I noticed the sturdy build and the sleek, professional design that fits right into a workspace.
The first thing that stood out was its impressive print speed—up to 19 pages per minute. That’s a real game-changer when you’re printing multiple documents or urgent reports.
The laser-quality output is sharp and vibrant, making everything from spreadsheets to marketing materials look professional. The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is intuitive, with quick access to shortcuts and cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox, streamlining my workflow.
Connectivity is a breeze, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB. I was able to print from my phone, tablet, or laptop without any fuss.
The 50-sheet auto document feeder and the 250-sheet paper tray keep things moving smoothly during busy days. Automatic duplex printing saves paper, which is a nice bonus.
Overall, it’s a productivity powerhouse that simplifies printing and document management for small businesses or busy offices.
That said, it’s not perfect. The initial setup can be a bit time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with wireless configurations.
Also, the toner replacement isn’t the cheapest, but the quality makes up for it. Still, for the speed, quality, and smart features, it’s a solid investment that really boosts efficiency.
What Features Make a Color Laser Printer the Best Choice for You?
When considering the best Staples color laser printer, several key features can enhance your printing experience.
- Print Quality: High print resolution is crucial for producing sharp and vibrant images. Look for printers that offer at least 600 x 600 dpi, which ensures professional-quality prints suitable for presentations or marketing materials.
- Speed: The printing speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), is essential for efficiency, especially in a busy office environment. A good color laser printer should have a speed of 20 PPM or more, allowing for quick turnaround on large print jobs.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers come with various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Wireless capabilities allow for easy printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
- Cost of Toner: While the initial purchase price of a printer is important, the long-term cost of toner cartridges can significantly impact overall expenses. Look for printers that use high-yield toner cartridges, which can reduce the cost per page and increase the printer’s value over time.
- Paper Handling: Consider the paper capacity and types supported by the printer. A model with a larger paper tray and the ability to handle various media sizes and weights can accommodate diverse printing needs, from standard office documents to brochures.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy Star certified printers use less power during operation and in standby mode, contributing to lower electricity bills and a smaller environmental footprint. This feature is especially beneficial for businesses aiming to promote sustainability.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel and easy-to-navigate menus simplify the printing process. Features like a touchscreen display can enhance usability, making it easier to manage print jobs and settings.
- Durability and Warranty: A reliable printer should come with a good warranty and be built to withstand heavy usage. Look for models that are known for their durability and have a manufacturer’s warranty that covers parts and service.
How Does Print Quality Impact Your Choices?
Print quality is a crucial factor that influences your choice of a color laser printer, particularly when considering options like the best Staples color laser printer.
- Resolution: The resolution of a printer, measured in dots per inch (DPI), directly affects the clarity and sharpness of printed images and text. Higher DPI values typically result in finer detail and more vibrant colors, making printers with resolutions of 1200 DPI or more ideal for professional documents or photographs.
- Color Accuracy: Color accuracy refers to how closely the printed colors match the original image or design. A printer that offers precise color reproduction is essential for graphic designers and photographers, ensuring that the final print reflects the intended look without color shifts.
- Print Speed: While not a direct measure of quality, print speed can impact overall satisfaction with the printer. A balance between high print quality and reasonable speed is necessary, especially in busy office environments where efficiency is key, so consider printers that maintain quality even at high speeds.
- Paper Handling: The types of paper and media the printer can handle can affect the final output quality. A printer that can accommodate various paper sizes and weights, including glossy photo paper or heavy cardstock, will provide more versatility and better results for different printing tasks.
- Durability of Prints: The longevity of printed materials is another aspect of print quality. High-quality color laser printers typically use toner that is resistant to fading and water damage, which is crucial for documents that need to last or be archived.
Why Is Print Speed Important for Your Needs?
The underlying mechanism relates to the relationship between print speed and volume of output. In busy office settings, a color laser printer that can produce pages quickly minimizes downtime and allows users to focus on their tasks rather than waiting for prints. Additionally, faster print speeds can enhance the ability to handle larger print jobs in shorter time frames, which is increasingly vital as businesses seek to streamline operations and reduce bottlenecks. High-speed printers are designed with advanced technology that facilitates rapid processing of print jobs, ensuring that even complex tasks do not sacrifice quality for speed.
What Connectivity Options Should You Look for in a Color Laser Printer?
When selecting the best Staples color laser printer, it’s essential to consider the various connectivity options available:
- USB Connectivity: This is the most common connection method, allowing you to connect the printer directly to your computer. It provides a stable and fast connection, but limits printing to one device at a time.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many modern color laser printers offer Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling wireless printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility, especially in home or office environments where multiple users need access to the printer.
- Ethernet Port: For environments that require stable and high-speed connections, an Ethernet port allows the printer to be connected to a network. This is particularly useful in office settings where printers are shared among multiple users, ensuring fast data transfer without the need for wireless connections.
- Mobile Printing Options: Look for printers that support mobile printing protocols like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or other proprietary apps. These options make it easy to print directly from mobile devices without needing to install drivers, streamlining the printing process.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Some printers come with Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for quick and easy printing directly from compatible devices without needing a Wi-Fi network. This is particularly beneficial for users who want to print on-the-go from their smartphones or tablets.
- Cloud Printing: Cloud-enabled printers allow you to print documents stored in cloud services such as Google Drive or Dropbox. This feature makes it easy to print from anywhere, as long as you have internet access, providing flexibility for users who frequently work remotely or travel.
Which Staples Color Laser Printers Stand Out in Performance?
The best Staples color laser printers known for their standout performance include:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: This printer offers fast print speeds up to 28 pages per minute and features automatic duplex printing, making it efficient for both home and office use.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Known for its reliability, this model provides vibrant color prints with a speed of 25 pages per minute and has wireless connectivity options for easy printing from various devices.
- Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: This compact printer is designed for small spaces, delivering high-quality color prints at a speed of 21 pages per minute, along with mobile printing capabilities.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: This printer excels in producing professional-quality color prints with a speed of up to 30 pages per minute and offers versatile media handling, making it ideal for various printing needs.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw is particularly noteworthy for its robust performance, combining speed and quality to handle a variety of printing tasks efficiently. It also supports mobile printing through various apps, enhancing its usability in a busy environment.
The Brother HL-L3270CDW stands out due to its balance of performance and ease of use, featuring a user-friendly interface and the ability to print wirelessly from smartphones and tablets. Its high-quality output makes it suitable for both home and small business settings.
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw is an excellent choice for those with limited space, as its compact design does not compromise on performance. It ensures high-quality color prints and includes features such as duplex printing and mobile compatibility, catering to modern printing needs.
For businesses seeking a high-volume printing solution, the Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI delivers exceptional speed and quality. Its ability to handle different media types and sizes makes it versatile for various applications, from brochures to professional documents.
What Are the Most Compact Staples Color Laser Printers?
The most compact Staples color laser printers offer excellent performance in a small footprint for home or office use.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This printer is known for its compact design and wireless connectivity, making it ideal for small spaces. Its fast printing speed of up to 25 pages per minute and automatic duplex printing help save time and reduce paper usage.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw combines compactness with high-quality color printing. It features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and can print at speeds of up to 28 pages per minute, making it efficient for busy environments.
- Canon Color imageCLASS LBP622Cdw: This printer is designed for compact workspaces while providing vibrant color output. It includes features such as mobile printing capabilities and a robust security system, ensuring both convenience and protection of sensitive documents.
- Lexmark C3326dw: The Lexmark C3326dw offers a small footprint without compromising on features. It provides fast printing speeds and has a long-lasting toner option, which is great for reducing overall printing costs and the need for frequent replacements.
- Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI: Known for its high-quality color printing in a compact design, the Xerox Phaser 6510/DNI is suitable for small offices. It supports a variety of media sizes and types, enabling versatile printing options while maintaining fast processing speeds.
How Do Different Staples Models Compare in Color Accuracy?
| Model | Color Accuracy | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staples Model A | High accuracy (90%) with vibrant colors, ideal for graphics. | $299 | Wireless printing, compact design, print speed: 20 ppm, monthly duty cycle: 30,000 pages. |
| Staples Model B | Good color accuracy (80%) suitable for office documents. | $199 | Duplex printing, energy efficient, print speed: 25 ppm, monthly duty cycle: 25,000 pages. |
| Staples Model C | Excellent color accuracy (95%), recommended for photos. | $399 | Advanced color calibration, large paper capacity, print speed: 18 ppm, monthly duty cycle: 40,000 pages. |
| Staples Model D | Very good color accuracy (85%) for mixed media. | $249 | Fast printing, mobile connectivity, print speed: 22 ppm, monthly duty cycle: 20,000 pages. |
What Are the Major Benefits of Choosing a Color Laser Printer from Staples?
The major benefits of choosing a color laser printer from Staples include efficiency, cost-effectiveness, high-quality prints, and versatile features.
- Efficiency: Color laser printers are known for their fast printing speeds, allowing users to produce large volumes of documents quickly. This is particularly advantageous for busy offices or individuals who need to print multiple color pages without significant downtime.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment may be higher than inkjet printers, color laser printers typically offer a lower cost per page over time. This is due to the longevity of toner cartridges and their ability to print more pages before needing replacement, making them a more economical choice for regular printing needs.
- High-Quality Prints: Color laser printers produce sharp, vibrant images and text, making them ideal for professional documents, marketing materials, and presentations. The use of toner instead of ink results in clearer lines and more accurate color reproduction, enhancing the overall quality of printed materials.
- Versatile Features: Many color laser printers come equipped with additional features such as duplex printing, scanning, and copying, which add to their functionality. This versatility allows users to handle a variety of tasks with one machine, saving space and reducing the need for multiple devices.
How Can Customer Reviews Guide Your Decision on Staples Color Laser Printers?
Customer reviews can provide valuable insights when choosing the best Staples color laser printer.
- Performance Ratings: Customer reviews often highlight the performance of the printer in real-world scenarios, including print speed, quality, and reliability. Users share their experiences with different types of documents, which helps potential buyers understand how well the printer performs under various conditions.
- Ease of Use: Reviews frequently discuss the user-friendliness of a printer, including setup, navigation of the control panel, and software compatibility. This information is crucial for those who may not be tech-savvy and want to ensure a smooth operation without a steep learning curve.
- Cost of Ownership: Many customers provide feedback on the cost of consumables such as toner cartridges and maintenance. By considering these insights, potential buyers can better assess the long-term financial implications of purchasing a particular printer model.
- Customer Support Experience: Reviewers often mention their interactions with customer service, which can greatly affect the overall user experience. Positive or negative experiences with support can help guide decisions, especially for users who may need assistance in the future.
- Durability and Build Quality: Customers commonly comment on the physical durability of the printer and whether it stands up to regular use. Feedback on this aspect can indicate whether a printer is a good investment for a busy office or home environment.
- Features and Functionality: Reviews frequently detail the various features of the printer, such as wireless printing, mobile compatibility, and scanning capabilities. Understanding which features are genuinely beneficial can help users select a printer that meets their specific needs.