10 Best Color Laser Printers 2025 in the United States

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw is a versatile all-in-one color laser printer designed for small office environments. It offers impressive print speeds of up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for both black-and-white and color prints, which is quite efficient for busy office settings. Additionally, the printer supports a variety of functions, including scanning, copying, faxing, and duplex printing, making it a highly functional device for multitasking teams. The automatic document feeder (ADF) and single-pass two-sided scanning further enhance productivity by streamlining document handling tasks.

Print quality is another strong point, thanks to the next-generation TerraJet toner, which promises vivid and professional-quality color prints. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses that require high-quality marketing materials and reports. The connectivity options are robust, with Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet available, allowing seamless integration into various network environments. The HP Smart app adds convenience by enabling mobile printing and management right from your smartphone. Security is also a priority, as evidenced by the built-in HP Wolf Pro Security, which protects against cyber threats.

On the downside, the printer may have higher operational costs due to proprietary HP toner cartridges, which restrict the use of third-party alternatives. Additionally, the maximum print resolution of 600x600 dpi, while adequate for most office needs, might fall short for those requiring extremely high-resolution outputs. At 37.7 pounds, it’s relatively heavy, which could be a consideration for smaller office spaces. The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw is best suited for offices that need a reliable, all-in-one color laser printer with strong security features, excellent connectivity, and solid performance. However, those particularly concerned with ongoing consumable costs or the highest possible print resolution might want to explore other options.

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for home offices, offering printing, scanning, copying, and fax capabilities. A standout feature is its cartridge-free design with high-capacity ink tanks, significantly reducing the cost and frequency of ink replacements. This can lead to up to 90% savings on ink costs, with enough ink included to last up to two years. This printer also emphasizes environmental benefits by reducing cartridge waste. The print quality is impressive, thanks to Epson's Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology, providing sharp text and vibrant color graphics on various paper types.

Connectivity options are modern and flexible, with both Ethernet and Wi-Fi available, as well as hands-free voice-activated printing and compatibility with the Epson Smart Panel App for easy mobile printing. However, the print speeds are relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute (ppm) for monochrome and 5 ppm for color printing. Additionally, the paper handling capacity is moderate, with a 100-sheet output capacity, which may require frequent refilling for heavy users.

The cost of consumables is low in the long run, but the initial investment might be higher than traditional cartridge-based printers. This printer is ideal for home offices that prioritize cost-efficiency and environmental sustainability over high-speed printing.

The Brother MFC-L8900CDW is a solid choice for businesses that require a dependable color laser printer with versatile functionality. It boasts impressive print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute, ensuring you won’t be kept waiting for your documents. The print quality is high-impact, suitable for professional documents, making it a great fit for offices that need crisp, vibrant prints.

One of its standout features is the 5-inch color touchscreen, which simplifies navigation and allows you to create up to 48 customized shortcuts. This is particularly beneficial for users who frequently print specific documents or need quick access to various functions.

In terms of connectivity, the printer offers both wired and wireless options, including the capability to print from and scan to NFC-enabled mobile devices. This flexibility is essential for modern workplaces where mobile printing is becoming more commonplace. Additionally, the 70-page capacity duplex auto document feeder is a real time-saver, allowing efficient scanning of both single and double-sided pages.

However, it’s worth noting that the printer is fairly heavy at 63.1 pounds, which may make it less portable if you need to move it around frequently. The cost of consumables, particularly super high-yield replacement cartridges, could also be a concern for budget-conscious buyers, even though they might provide better value over time compared to standard cartridges.

The Brother MFC-L8900CDW is particularly suitable for small to medium-sized businesses that require a multifunction printer that can handle a mix of printing, scanning, and copying tasks. Its robust features and high-speed printing capabilities make it a strong contender in the color laser printer category, although potential users should keep an eye on its weight and consumable costs.