Finding the best color laser printer scanner copier for small business involves balancing print quality, speed, cost, and ease of use. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out as the best overall for its reliable performance and multifunction features. The Canon MF751Cdw II offers excellent print quality and duplex printing, making it ideal for busy offices. However, tradeoffs include higher upfront costs and ongoing toner expenses. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you choose the right fit for your business needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top models balance print speed with cost-effectiveness, crucial for small business workflows.
- Wireless connectivity and multifunction features are common among the best options, simplifying office setup.
- Higher upfront investment often correlates with better durability, speed, and security features.
- Toner cost and yield significantly impact total ownership costs over time.
- Compact designs are available but may sacrifice some paper capacity or speed, requiring tradeoffs based on business size.
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best Overall for Small to Medium Businesses | Print Speed: up to 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF751Cdw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, High-Quality Color Printing with Expandability | Print Speed: 35 ppm | Print Technology: Laser | Color: Color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer (Renewed) |  | Best for Professional-Quality Output with Security | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, Secure, All-in-One Office Performance | Print Speed: up to 35 ppm | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | Auto Duplex: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for High-Performance, Cost-Effective Business Printing | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Office Teams | Printer Type: Laser | Print Media: Plain paper | Maximum Copy Speed: 26 ppm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Multi-Functionality with Fax for Growing Small Businesses | Printer Type: Laser | Functionality: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | Print Speed: Up to 26 ppm black/color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
This model stands out for its combination of speed, connectivity, and ease of use. Its print speed of 19 ppm is respectable, but compared to the Canon MF751Cdw II, which offers 35 ppm, it may be slower for high-volume environments. The Brother’s large 250-sheet paper capacity and auto duplex printing support busy workflows, yet its setup can be complex for first-time users. The touchscreen simplifies operation, but the initial cost is higher, and toner replacement can be pricey, making ongoing expenses a consideration. Overall, this printer balances performance and features, making it ideal for businesses needing reliable, multi-function color printing without sacrificing workflow efficiency.
Pros:- Fast print speeds with high-quality laser output
- Multiple connectivity options including dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB
- Large paper capacity with automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- Intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen with customizable shortcuts
Cons:- Relatively high initial purchase price
- Setup process can be complex for some users
- Toner replacement costs can add up over time
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses with high print volumes and a need for versatile connectivity
Not ideal for: Small startups on a tight budget or users seeking an ultra-compact device due to its larger footprint
- Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color display with 48 shortcuts
- Features:Auto duplex printing, cloud services integration
Bottom line: This pick suits growing small to medium businesses that prioritize speed, connectivity, and multi-functionality in a reliable all-in-one device.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF751Cdw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer
The Canon MF751Cdw II excels in delivering rapid 35 ppm color and monochrome prints, making it suitable for busy offices that need quick turnaround times. Its 5-inch touchscreen offers intuitive control, and the expandable paper capacity up to 850 sheets supports large jobs, surpassing the Brother MFC-L3720CDW’s capacity. However, its higher price point and initial setup complexity may deter small businesses on tight budgets, and the need for additional purchases for expansion can add to costs. Compared to the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw, which offers similar functions but slightly slower speeds, the Canon provides a better balance of speed, expandability, and ease of use for those with demanding print jobs.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of up to 35 ppm in color and monochrome
- Expandable paper capacity up to 850 sheets
- User-friendly 5-inch color touchscreen
- Wireless setup and mobile device support
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to basic models
- Setup can be complex for some users
- Additional costs for paper capacity expansion
Best for: Small or home office teams needing fast, high-quality color printing with room to grow
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious startups that require a simple, low-cost device or those with limited space
- Print Speed:35 ppm
- Print Technology:Laser
- Color:Color
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Touchscreen:5-inch color touchscreen
- Automatic Document Feeder:50 sheets
Bottom line: This model is best for offices that need rapid, expandable, and reliable color printing with straightforward operation.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer (Renewed)
The HP 3301cdw offers a solid set of features for small office teams, including print speeds up to 26 ppm and versatile functions like scanning, copying, and faxing. Its wireless dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connectivity, and security features help protect sensitive documents, making it a good choice for offices handling confidential info. Compared to the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, which lacks fax functionality, this model provides a more comprehensive office solution, though it relies on genuine HP cartridges with chips, which can increase ongoing costs. As a refurbished unit, it offers more affordable access to HP’s security and reliability but may have a shorter lifespan than new models, especially under heavy use.
Pros:- Decent print speeds of up to 26 ppm
- Includes scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities
- Secure wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi
- Refurbished with genuine parts for reliability
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Refurbished units may have limited lifespan
- Firmware updates might restrict third-party toner use
Best for: Small business teams prioritizing secure, all-in-one document management with quality output
Not ideal for: Businesses seeking the lowest upfront cost or expecting extremely high-volume printing without additional investment
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Media Sizes Supported:Letter, Legal, A4, envelopes, custom sizes
Bottom line: Ideal for offices needing a secure, all-in-one color laser with reliable wireless performance, especially when budget constraints favor refurbished models.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP 4301fdw combines rapid 35 ppm color printing with a full suite of office functions, including scan, copy, and fax. Its security features and wireless connectivity make it suitable for small teams requiring data protection and seamless device integration. The device’s robust security, including HP Wolf Pro Security, surpasses the Brother model’s basic security options. However, it’s primarily designed for small offices rather than compact spaces, and firmware updates may occasionally disrupt usability. When compared to the Canon MF751Cdw II, the HP offers slightly more integrated security features, though both excel in speed and multi-functionality. This model is a strong choice for busy offices needing fast, secure, all-in-one performance.
Pros:- Fast color printing at 35 ppm
- All-in-one functionality with scan, copy, and fax
- Advanced security features with HP Wolf Pro
- Wireless, Ethernet, and Bluetooth support
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Designed mainly for office use, not compact spaces
- Firmware updates may occasionally require attention
Best for: Small teams needing rapid, secure, all-in-one printing with flexible connectivity
Not ideal for: Very small or home-based offices with space limitations or tight budgets
- Print Speed:up to 35 ppm
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Security:HP Wolf Pro Security
Bottom line: This device suits small teams that need rapid, secure, multifunction color printing with broad connectivity options.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW is a robust choice for demanding small businesses, combining high-speed printing of up to 33 ppm with an impressive 104 ipm scan rate. Its 80-sheet automatic document feeder and 7-inch touchscreen streamline large jobs, making it ideal for high-volume environments. Its security features, including NFC card reader and triple-layer security, add peace of mind for sensitive documents. Compared to the Canon MF751Cdw II, it offers superior scanning speed and enhanced security, but its higher initial cost and complex setup may be barriers for smaller or less tech-savvy businesses. The toner yields are higher, potentially lowering long-term costs, though the initial investment is significant.
Pros:- High-quality color and black printing at 33 ppm
- Fast scanning with 104 ipm speed
- Advanced security including NFC card reader
- High-yield toner options lower ongoing costs
Cons:- Higher initial purchase price
- Setup can be complex for non-technical users
- Toner replacement can be costly without high-yield cartridges
Best for: Business users needing fast, secure, and high-volume printing/scanning with integrated security features
Not ideal for: Small startups with limited budgets or those needing a smaller, more straightforward device
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Touchscreen:7-inch color
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi dual-band, Gigabit Ethernet
- Security:Triple Layer Security, NFC card reader
Bottom line: This model is best for established small businesses that demand speed, security, and high-volume capabilities with minimal compromise on performance.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This model stands out for its combination of speed and all-in-one versatility, making it a strong choice for small businesses that need reliable color printing, copying, and scanning in a compact workspace. Compared with the HP 3301fdw, this version offers slightly faster print speeds at 30 ppm, which helps keep up with busy office demands. Its wireless and Ethernet connectivity provide flexible placement options, and the auto document feeder streamlines multi-page copying and scanning. However, the printer’s weight of 37.7 pounds might be a concern for those who need a portable solution, and its reliance on HP cartridges with chips can limit third-party options, increasing ongoing costs. Despite these tradeoffs, this pick delivers professional-quality output in a user-friendly package, making it ideal for small teams prioritizing speed and all-in-one functionality.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 30 ppm for both color and black & white
- All-in-one functionality including scan and copy with auto duplex
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible placement
- Uses original HP toner cartridges for high-quality output
Cons:- Relatively heavy at 37.7 pounds, limiting portability
- Limited to HP cartridges with chips, restricting third-party options
- Basic design may lack advanced features found in higher-end models
Best for: Small office teams that need fast, reliable color printing and scanning in a multi-tasking device.
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or remote workers who require a lightweight, portable printer or prefer cheaper third-party ink options.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Print Media:Plain paper
- Maximum Copy Speed:26 ppm
- Print Speed:30 ppm color and black & white
- Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Control Method:App
Bottom line: This printer is best suited for small offices that need a reliable, quick, all-in-one color laser solution with professional output quality.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This model extends the capabilities of the 3301sdw by adding faxing, making it suitable for small businesses that still rely on traditional fax channels. It offers a similar fast print rate of up to 26 ppm and supports scanning, copying, and now faxing, which is a key advantage over models without this feature. Its automatic duplexing and wireless connectivity simplify workflow, especially for offices with multiple users. On the downside, the 600 x 600 dpi resolution for printing and scanning is lower than the 1200 dpi offered by other models like the 3301sdw, which could impact the quality of detailed graphics. Additionally, the weight of 37.7 pounds and the reliance on HP cartridges with chips might cause cost and portability concerns. Overall, this pick targets businesses that need comprehensive multifunction capabilities, including fax, in a single device.
Pros:- Includes fax functionality, suitable for traditional office workflows
- Fast printing and scanning speeds of up to 26 ppm and 25 ppm respectively
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity with automatic duplexing
- All-in-one features in a compact, reliable package
Cons:- Lower printing and scanning resolution at 600 x 600 dpi
- Relies on HP cartridges with chips, limiting third-party options
- Heavy at 37.7 pounds, less portable
Best for: Small businesses that require faxing as part of their daily operations along with printing and scanning.
Not ideal for: Solo users or small startups who don’t need fax, or those seeking the highest print resolution for detailed graphics.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Functionality:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Print Speed:Up to 26 ppm black/color
- Maximum Copy Speed:25 ppm
- Resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
Bottom line: Ideal for small offices that need a multifunction printer with faxing capabilities alongside reliable color printing and scanning.
How We Picked
I evaluated each printer based on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance costs, and overall value. Priority was given to models that deliver reliable print quality at a reasonable speed suitable for small business demands. Ease of setup and ongoing operation, including toner replacement and connectivity, played a key role. The ranking reflects a balance between initial investment, long-term costs, and feature set, aiming to recommend options for different buyer priorities within small business environments.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Color Laser Printer Scanner Copier For Small Business
Choosing the best color laser printer scanner copier involves more than just looking at specs. Small businesses should consider print volume, speed, and total cost of ownership. Security features and ease of maintenance also matter, especially in shared workspaces. Understanding these factors helps ensure your investment aligns with your growth plans and daily needs.Print Speed and Volume Capacity
Assess your typical monthly print volume and choose a model that can handle your workload without frequent jams or slowdowns. Faster printers improve productivity but often come with higher costs, so balance speed with your actual needs. For small teams, a model with around 20-30 pages per minute and a paper capacity of at least 250 sheets provides a good mix of speed and convenience without overpaying for excess capacity.
Cost of Consumables and Total Ownership
High-quality toner yields can reduce the frequency and cost of replacements but may come with a higher initial price. Check the cost per page for toner cartridges, as this directly impacts long-term expenses. Some models offer high-yield cartridges suited for busy offices, which lower the total cost over time. Avoid models with cheap initial prices but expensive consumables, as these can drain your budget quickly.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Wireless capabilities, mobile printing, and intuitive interfaces are standard among the best models for small business. These features streamline workflows and reduce setup time. Ensure the printer supports your preferred devices and apps, and consider models with touchscreen controls for easier operation. Connectivity options like Ethernet or Wi-Fi also enhance flexibility in shared office environments.
Security and Reliability
For small businesses handling sensitive information, security features like user authentication and encrypted printing are invaluable. Look for models with robust security options to prevent unauthorized access. Reliability also depends on build quality and support services; investing in a well-reviewed, durable model minimizes downtime and repair costs over the long run.
Size and Design
Compact designs save space but may limit paper capacity and speed. Consider your available office space and whether a slightly larger, more capable model makes sense for your volume. Easy-to-access toner compartments and straightforward maintenance procedures also contribute to smoother daily operations, especially if you lack dedicated IT support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the right print volume for my small business?
Estimate your average monthly print volume by reviewing your past usage or projecting future needs. Most small businesses print between 500 and 2,000 pages monthly. Choose a printer with a duty cycle that comfortably exceeds your estimate to avoid wear and tear, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. Higher duty cycles also support scalability as your business grows.
Are wireless printers secure enough for sensitive business documents?
Many modern color laser printers include security features like encrypted data transfer, user authentication, and secure printing. These safeguards help protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. It’s important to enable and properly configure these features, especially in shared environments or when handling confidential data, to maintain your business’s security standards.
Is it worth paying extra for a model with duplex printing?
Dual-sided printing reduces paper costs and environmental impact, providing long-term savings and convenience. For busy offices with high print volumes, duplex capability can also speed up workflows by eliminating manual flipping. While the upfront cost may be higher, the efficiency gains and cost savings usually justify the investment for most small businesses.
How important is after-sales support and warranty when choosing a printer?
Reliable support and warranty coverage are vital, especially if your printer becomes problematic during busy periods. Good support can minimize downtime and repair costs, ensuring your business remains productive. Consider brands with a reputation for responsive customer service and comprehensive warranty options, which can save trouble and money over the device’s lifespan.
Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
Many color laser printers are compatible with third-party toner options, which can save money. However, using non-OEM cartridges may sometimes impact print quality or void your warranty. It’s advisable to check your manufacturer’s policy and read reviews to find reputable third-party options that maintain quality and reliability without risking damage or support issues.
Conclusion
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW makes the best overall choice for small businesses prioritizing reliability and multifunctionality. The Canon MF751Cdw II stands out for higher print quality and duplexing, suited for creative or detail-oriented tasks. If budget is a concern, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw offers solid features at a more accessible price. For those seeking premium features and security, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW provides advanced options. Beginners will appreciate models with straightforward setup, while larger or security-conscious offices should prioritize models with enhanced security features. This selection aims to match diverse small business needs with the right balance of performance, costs, and features.
