Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw
4.1Editor score
Fast 26 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity included
Compact single-function design
In this guide
Finding the right entry level color laser printer can transform your home office productivity. These devices offer fast speeds and vibrant outputs without the hefty price tag of enterprise models.
We evaluated ten top contenders based on print quality, connectivity options, and overall value. Each product was assessed for its ability to handle daily business tasks efficiently.
Every pick highlights key strengths and potential trade-offs for different user needs. Remember that prices and availability may change, so check current listings before purchasing.
Top 3 Picks for Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw
4.0Editor score
3-in-1 functionality
Color touchscreen interface
High capacity toner support
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
4.0Editor score
Full MFP capabilities
Auto document feeder
Dual-band wireless support
Top 10 Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side overview of key specifications for each model to help you compare features at a glance.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Brother HL-L3220CDW
19 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity
250-sheet tray
Duplex printing
3.9Editor score
Editor's Choice
Canon LBP646Cdw
26 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity
250-sheet tray
Duplex printing
4.1Editor score
Editor's Choice
Canon MF662Cdw
26 ppm print speed
Scan copy print
5-inch touchscreen
Duplex printing
4.0Editor score
Canon MF652Cw
22 ppm print speed
Scan copy print
Wireless connectivity
Energy Star certified
4.3Editor score
HP MFP 3301sdw
26 ppm print speed
ADF included
Duplex printing
250-sheet tray
3.7Editor score
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
19 ppm print speed
50-sheet ADF
Fax capability
3.5-inch touchscreen
4.0Editor score
Brother HL-L3280CDW
27 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity
Duplex printing
2.7-inch touchscreen
3.9Editor score
Canon MF753Cdw II
Print scan copy fax
Wireless connectivity
Duplex printing
4-in-1 functions
4.2Editor score
HP 3201dw
26 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity
Duplex printing
250-sheet tray
3.4Editor score
Xerox C240
26 ppm print speed
Wireless connectivity
Print only
Dual-band Wi-Fi
4.6Editor score
1. Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw – Best Overall Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw
26 ppm color speed
Wireless duplex printing
5-inch color touch
3 year warranty
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw stands out as a top choice for small offices needing reliable color printing. With a rating of 4.0, it offers a balanced mix of speed and functionality.
Pros
- Fast print speeds
- Intuitive touchscreen
- High capacity toner
- Reliable connectivity
Cons
- No auto document feeder
- Higher upfront cost
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This model delivers up to 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome. The 5-inch color touchscreen simplifies navigation and customization for frequent users.
While it lacks an auto document feeder, the high capacity toner reduces replacement frequency. This trade-off is acceptable for users with moderate scan needs.
Ideal for small businesses wanting professional output without enterprise complexity. We recommend this model for its strong warranty and consistent performance.
Quick Setup and Connectivity
Wireless setup is straightforward allowing quick connection to laptops and mobile devices via AirPrint and Mopria services.
High Yield Toner Support
Compatible with high capacity toner cartridges that extend page yields and lower the cost per page over time.
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2. Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw – Best Budget Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw
26 ppm print speed
Wireless duplex print
LCD screen interface
Energy Star rated
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw is an excellent budget option for those needing fast color printing without extra features. It holds a solid 4.1 rating from users.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Fast 26 ppm speed
- Compact footprint
- Easy wireless setup
Cons
- Print only functionality
- Basic control screen
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It prints up to 26 pages per minute with a quick first print time. This speed ensures minimal waiting for daily business documents and reports.
Being print-only means no scanning or copying, which keeps costs down. This limitation is acceptable if you have separate devices for those tasks.
Best suited for home offices or small teams focused purely on printing. Its compact design and high yield toner support make it a smart budget choice.
Fast Print Performance
Dual color and monochrome printing at 26 ppm keeps workflows moving quickly without sacrificing output quality.
Simple Mobile Printing
Compatible with Canon PRINT app and AirPrint for effortless document sending from smartphones and tablets.
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3. Brother MFC-L3720CDW – Best Premium Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
19 ppm print speed
50-sheet ADF
Fax capability
3.5-inch touchscreen
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers comprehensive office features in an entry level package. With a 4.0 rating, it balances functionality and reliability for small teams.
Pros
- Full MFP functionality
- Auto document feeder
- Dual-band wireless
- Cloud integration
Cons
- Slower speed than rivals
- Larger footprint
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It includes scanning copying and faxing alongside printing. The 50-sheet auto document feeder streamlines multi-page tasks significantly.
Print speed is slightly lower at 19 ppm but the added features justify it. Cloud services access through the touchscreen adds modern convenience.
Recommended for offices needing all-in-one capabilities without enterprise pricing. Its dual-band wireless ensures stable connections even in busy environments.
Productivity Features
Built-in fax and copier functions reduce the need for separate hardware in small office setups.
Cloud Connectivity
Direct access to cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive simplifies document management and retrieval.
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4. Brother HL-L3220CDW – Reliable Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Brother HL-L3220CDW
19 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Duplex printing
Mobile device print
The Brother HL-L3220CDW is designed for professional home office printing with crisp text and vibrant graphics. It holds a 3.9 rating based on consistent performance.
Pros
- Professional output quality
- Large paper capacity
- Secure wireless
- Automatic duplex
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Single-function only
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With a 250-sheet paper tray, refills are less frequent. Automatic duplex printing saves paper and creates professional double-sided documents efficiently.
While it lacks a touchscreen, wireless connectivity is robust with security protocols. This makes it suitable for handling sensitive business documents safely.
Best for users prioritizing output quality and paper capacity over extra features. Its reliable wireless setup ensures seamless integration into modern workflows.
Professional Output Quality
Produces stunning business documents with crisp text and vibrant graphics suitable for client-facing materials.
Paper Handling
Generous 250-sheet tray reduces refills while manual feed supports specialty media like envelopes.
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5. HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw – Solid Office Entry Level Color Laser Printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw
26 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Dual-band Wi-Fi
Self-reset feature
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw delivers professional quality documents with next-generation TerraJet toner. It has a 3.4 rating indicating mixed user experiences.
Pros
- Fast 26 ppm speed
- Vivid TerraJet colors
- Self-reset Wi-Fi
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Lower user rating
- Strict cartridge policy
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Print speeds reach 26 ppm for both color and black. The 250-sheet tray supports steady office workflows without frequent interruptions.
Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset helps resolve connection issues automatically. However, strict cartridge policies may increase long-term ownership costs.
Ideal for small teams relying on HP ecosystem consistency. Prioritize this if you value color vibrancy and fast throughput in office settings.
TerraJet Toner
Next-generation toner brings business documents to life with more vivid colors for impactful presentations.
Connectivity Stability
Self-reset dual-band Wi-Fi automatically detects and resolves connection issues to keep printing uninterrupted.
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6. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw – Feature Rich Entry Level Color Laser Printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw
26 ppm print speed
Auto document feeder
Duplex printing
Scan copy print
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw combines scanning copying and printing in one unit. It carries a 3.7 rating reflecting its robust feature set.
Pros
- Full MFP features
- Auto document feeder
- TerraJet toner
- High capacity tray
Cons
- Strict chip requirements
- Higher cost
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Includes an auto document feeder for multi-page scanning. This significantly speeds up digitization compared to flatbed-only models.
TerraJet toner ensures vivid colors while strict chip requirements protect HP's ecosystem. This can be a downside if you prefer third-party supplies.
Best for teams needing scanning capabilities with fast print speeds. Consider this if you value convenience and brand reliability for daily office tasks.
Document Feeder
Automatic document feeder allows scanning of multiple pages quickly without manual intervention.
Vivid Output
Next-generation toner enhances color vibrancy for professional reports and marketing materials.
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7. Canon Color imageCLASS MF652Cw – Reliable Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS MF652Cw
22 ppm print speed
3 year warranty
Poster Artist Online
Chromebook compatible
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF652Cw boasts a high 4.3 rating and a three-year limited warranty. It balances value and features effectively for small offices.
Pros
- High user rating
- Long warranty period
- Design suite tools
- Mobile ready
Cons
- Slower than peers
- Limited scan speed
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Prints up to 22 pages per minute. Unique tools like Poster Artist Online allow for creative professional signage and banners easily.
Scan speed is moderate compared to rivals but acceptable for light usage. High capacity toner support helps manage ongoing costs efficiently.
Ideal for users needing reliability and creative output options. Its Chromebook compatibility makes it a great choice for diverse device environments.
Design Suite
Free Poster Artist Online suite helps create professional posters and banners without extra software.
Long Warranty
Three-year limited warranty provides extended peace of mind and protection against hardware issues.
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8. Brother HL-L3280CDW – Fast Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Brother HL-L3280CDW
27 ppm print speed
Ethernet interface
2.7-inch touch
Duplex printing
The Brother HL-L3280CDW offers the fastest speed in this comparison at 27 pages per minute. It maintains a 3.9 rating for consistent laser-quality output.
Pros
- Fastest speed listed
- Compact design
- Cloud app print
- Ethernet option
Cons
- Small screen
- Refresh trial limited
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Its compact design fits easily into small home offices. Automatic duplex printing ensures double-sided pages are efficient and professional.
Cloud-based app access via the touchscreen simplifies remote printing. The included refresh trial adds value though subscription costs apply after expiration.
Best for entrepreneurs prioritizing speed and desktop footprint. Its Ethernet port provides a reliable backup if wireless networks are unstable.
Speed Performance
Delivers consistent 27 ppm output keeping business workflows moving quickly without waiting.
Cloud Printing
Integrated touchscreen allows direct print access from cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
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9. Xerox C240 – Durable Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Xerox C240
26 ppm print speed
High yield toner
Easy Assist App
Dual-band Wi-Fi
The Xerox C240 earns the highest user rating of 4.6 in this comparison. It focuses on reliability and vibrant print quality for small businesses.
Pros
- Highest user rating
- Professional quality
- Simple setup
- Fast throughput
Cons
- Print only model
- Basic features
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Delivers up to 26 pages per minute with sharp text and graphics. Setup is simplified through the Xerox Easy Assist App on smartphones.
Being print only keeps the unit compact and affordable. High yield toner options help lower long-term ownership costs effectively.
Ideal for teams needing robust printing without extra bells and whistles. Its strong reputation for quality makes it a trustworthy choice.
Setup Ease
Xerox Easy Assist App eliminates complex manuals and driver hurdles for minutes installation.
Print Quality
Produces sharp text and brilliant color graphics ensuring professional reports look impressive every time.
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10. Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Complete Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II
4-in-1 functions
Fax capability
Duplex printing
Wireless setup
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II provides complete 4-in-1 functionality including faxing. With a 4.2 rating it meets higher demands well.
Pros
- Comprehensive functions
- Fax included
- High rating
- Duplex support
Cons
- Higher price
- Complex for some
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Print scan copy and fax capabilities are built-in. This makes it suitable for offices needing traditional fax lines.
Cost may be higher than simpler models but functionality justifies it. Duplex printing ensures efficient paper usage for all document types.
Best for offices needing full traditional connectivity in one box. Its strong rating suggests reliability for daily business operations.
Fax Capability
Built-in fax function allows sending and receiving documents digitally or via phone line.
All-in-One Efficiency
Combining print scan copy and fax reduces clutter and simplifies office workflow.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Selecting the right printer depends on your specific office needs and workflow demands. Understanding key factors helps narrow down choices effectively.
Print Speed
Print speed determines how quickly documents are produced. Faster rates reduce waiting times for large jobs or multiple users.
Look for models offering at least 20 pages per minute for efficient business workflows.
Connectivity Options
Wireless capabilities allow printing from various devices without cables. Ensure support for mobile printing platforms like AirPrint or Mopria.
Choose models with dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connections in busy environments.
Functions Required
Decide if you need scanning copying or faxing. All-in-one models save space but cost more than print-only units.
Focus on essential features to avoid paying for capabilities you will not use.
Paper Capacity
Larger paper trays reduce refill frequency. Standard cassettes typically hold 250 sheets which is sufficient for most small offices.
Verify tray options match your typical document volume to ensure uninterrupted printing.
Toner Costs
Ongoing toner expenses impact total cost of ownership. High capacity cartridges offer more pages per unit which lowers per-page cost.
Check yield ratings to estimate long-term expenses before purchasing hardware.
Duplex Capability
Automatic duplex printing saves paper by printing on both sides. This feature is standard on most modern entry level models.
Ensure your selection supports auto-duplex to maintain professional output efficiently.
Warranty and Support
Longer warranties provide peace of mind against defects. Three-year plans are common among reliable brands for business gear.
Prioritize models with solid support networks to resolve issues quickly.
Physical Dimensions
Compact printers fit better in smaller workspaces. Consider footprint dimensions before buying to ensure desk compatibility.
Measure your available space to avoid fitting issues upon delivery.
How to Use and Care for Your Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Begin by connecting the printer to your network using the wireless setup wizard. Follow on-screen prompts to join your Wi-Fi network securely.
Keep the firmware updated to maintain security and performance. Manufacturers often release updates that improve stability or add features.
Clean the exterior regularly with a soft dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage plastic or electronic components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest entry level color laser printer?
The Brother HL-L3280CDW offers the fastest speed at 27 pages per minute among the reviewed models. It balances this with a compact design for home offices.
Do I need an all-in-one printer for home office?
Not necessarily. If you only print documents a single-function unit saves cost. However scanners are useful if you digitize physical paperwork frequently.
How often should I replace toner cartridges?
Replacement frequency depends on your print volume. High capacity cartridges can last thousands of pages. Check printer alerts for accurate replacement timing.
Are these printers compatible with Mac devices?
Most models support AirPrint which works with Mac and iOS. Always check specific compatibility lists before purchasing to ensure seamless integration.
Can I use third-party toner with these printers?
Some brands like HP may block third-party cartridges with chip technology. Others allow generic toner. Check manufacturer policies to avoid unexpected issues.
What is the best warranty length for these printers?
A three-year limited warranty is common for business-grade models. It provides better protection against defects compared to standard one-year coverage.
Do these printers support Ethernet connection?
Many models offer both wireless and Ethernet options. Ethernet provides a stable wired connection if your office requires it for security.
How much space do these printers take?
Most entry level models have a compact footprint suitable for desks. Measure your available space before purchase to ensure proper fit.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
We reviewed ten top entry level color laser printers offering diverse features for different needs. Our picks balance speed quality and value effectively.
Prioritize what matters most to your workflow whether that is scan capability or maximum speed. Choosing wisely saves money and frustration.
Remember that prices and stock change frequently. Always verify current listings and warranty details before finalizing your purchase decision.