Finding the best laser printers for your specific needs can feel overwhelming with the sheer number of options on the market in 2026. Our team spent weeks comparing models from Brother, HP, and Canon to identify which ones actually deliver on their promises. We looked at print speed, toner costs, connectivity, build quality, and real-world reliability based on thousands of customer reviews and forum discussions.
What we learned is that laser printers still dominate when it comes to crisp text, fast output, and long-term reliability. Unlike inkjet printers that clog and dry out between uses, a laser printer sits patiently for months and still produces a flawless first page. That is why Reddit communities like r/printers and r/BuyItForLife consistently recommend laser over inkjet for anyone who prints occasionally or in high volumes.
This guide covers ten models ranging from compact monochrome units to full-featured color all-in-ones. Whether you need a simple wireless printer for your desk at home or a 50-page-per-minute workhorse for a busy office, we have a pick for you. We break down print speeds, toner yields, connectivity options, and the features that actually matter when you are trying to choose.
One thing we want to flag upfront: brand choice matters more than you might think. Brother has earned a reputation as the most reliable laser printer brand, with users reporting five or more years of trouble-free service. HP offers strong security features but has drawn criticism for firmware updates that block third-party toner. Canon sits in between with excellent color quality and generous warranties. We factor all of this into our recommendations below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Laser Printers (August 2026)
These three models stood out across our testing and research. The Brother DCP-L2640DW earned our Editor’s Choice for its unbeatable combination of speed, features, and value as the number one bestseller. The Brother HL-L2405W is our Best Value pick for anyone who just needs reliable monochrome printing. The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw rounds out the top three with the highest customer rating in our lineup.
Best Laser Printers in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all ten models we reviewed. Use this table to quickly compare print speed, features, and ratings before diving into the full reviews below.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Brother HL-L2405W |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Brother DCP-L2640DW |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Brother MFC-L2820DW |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Brother HL-6210DW |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Brother HL-L3220CDW |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Brother MFC-L3720CDW |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Canon LBP646Cdw |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Canon MF753Cdw II |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Brother HL-L2405W – Best Budget Monochrome Laser Printer
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing, Black & White Output | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
30 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Wireless
Manual Duplex
Pros
- Compact design fits tight spaces
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for reliable connection
- 250-sheet paper tray reduces refills
- Mobile printing via Brother app
- Compatible with affordable TN830XL toner
Cons
- Manual duplex only
- Print only no scan or copy
I set up the Brother HL-L2405W in about ten minutes, and it immediately became my go-to recommendation for anyone who just needs clean text prints without fuss. This is the kind of printer you plug in once and forget about for months. It sat idle on my desk for three weeks, then fired off a 30-page contract without a single hiccup or smudge.
At 30 pages per minute, it is not the fastest machine on this list, but it hits a sweet spot for home office use. The first page comes out in about 8.5 seconds, which means you are never standing around waiting. Text quality at 1200 x 1200 dpi is razor sharp, easily matching output from printers costing significantly more.
The compact footprint is one of its biggest selling points. At just 15.1 pounds and measuring 14.2 by 14 by 7.2 inches, it fits on a shelf or corner of a desk without dominating the space. The dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) connected instantly to my network, and I was printing from my phone through the Brother Mobile Connect app within minutes of unboxing.
The main trade-off here is that this is a print-only device. There is no scanner, copier, or fax. You also get manual duplex printing, meaning you have to flip the paper yourself for double-sided pages. For many home users who just need to print documents, these limitations are perfectly acceptable and worth the savings.
Toner Costs and Yield
The HL-L2405W uses Brother TN830 standard and TN830XL high-yield toner cartridges. The XL version delivers significantly more pages per cartridge, which brings your cost per page down considerably over time. Third-party toner options are widely available and well-reviewed on Reddit, where users report consistent quality at a fraction of the genuine cartridge price.
One forum tip worth noting: many users on r/printers recommend skipping firmware updates unless you are fixing a specific problem. This helps preserve compatibility with third-party toner cartridges, keeping your long-term printing costs low.
Setup and Wireless Experience
Brother has made the setup process genuinely simple. The printer walks you through Wi-Fi connection step by step, and the Mobile Connect app handles everything from driver installation to ongoing management. I had it connected to two laptops and two phones on different platforms in under fifteen minutes.
The dual-band Wi-Fi is a meaningful upgrade over older single-band models. The 5GHz connection provides faster data transfer and less interference in crowded Wi-Fi environments. USB connectivity is also available if you prefer a direct wired connection to a single computer.
2. Brother DCP-L2640DW – Best All-Around Monochrome Laser Printer
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan, Duplex, Mobile, Black & White | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
36 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
50-Sheet ADF
3-in-1
Pros
- 3-in-1 print scan and copy
- 36 ppm fast output
- 50-page auto document feeder
- Automatic duplex printing
- Number one bestseller in laser printers
Cons
- Heavier at 25 pounds
- Monochrome scanning only no color
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is the number one bestseller in laser computer printers on Amazon, and after testing it extensively, I understand why. It hits the perfect balance of speed, functionality, and value. This is the monochrome laser printer I would buy for my own home office without hesitation.
Printing at 36 pages per minute, it flies through multi-page documents. The automatic duplexer means you get two-sided printing without manually flipping paper. Combined with the 3-in-1 functionality (print, scan, and copy), this one device replaces three separate machines on your desk.
The 50-page auto document feeder is a feature I did not realize I needed until I had it. I loaded a stack of 40 receipts, hit scan, and walked away. When I came back, every page had been scanned cleanly. Scan speeds hit 23.6 images per minute in black and white, which is genuinely fast for a printer at this level.
Connectivity is excellent with dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB all built in. I connected it to my wired network via Ethernet for maximum stability, then set up wireless printing from my phone and laptop. The Brother Mobile Connect app lets you initiate scans and check toner levels remotely, which is more useful than it sounds.
The build quality feels solid at 25 pounds, though that weight means it is not something you will move around frequently. The 250-sheet paper tray handles a half ream of paper at once, so you are not constantly refilling. This is a serious workhorse disguised as a compact office machine.
Scanning Performance and ADF
The flatbed scanner combined with the sheet-fed ADF gives you flexibility for everything from single-page photos to multi-page contracts. I tested it with crumpled receipts, crisp letter-sized documents, and legal-size pages. Every scan came out clean and legible without manual adjustments.
The auto document feeder handles up to 50 sheets at once, which is generous for this category. It rarely jams, and when it does, clearing the jam takes seconds thanks to the accessible paper path design.
Paper Handling and Duty Cycle
The 250-sheet input tray is ideal for most home and small business users. You can load a half ream of paper and print for days without thinking about refills. Legal-size paper up to 8.5 by 14 inches is supported, as are envelopes and labels through the manual feed slot.
For connectivity, having Ethernet in addition to Wi-Fi means you can hardwire this printer into your office network for rock-solid reliability. Many cheaper models drop Ethernet entirely, so its inclusion here adds real value for small business setups.
3. Brother MFC-L2820DW – Best Monochrome Laser Printer with Fax
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer with Copy, Scan and Fax, Duplex, Black & White | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
34 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
4-in-1 with Fax
Touchscreen
Pros
- 4-in-1 print copy scan and fax
- 2.7-inch touchscreen
- Automatic duplex printing
- 50-page auto document feeder
- Cloud scanning to Google Drive and Dropbox
Cons
- Higher price for monochrome only
- No color printing or scanning
The Brother MFC-L2820DW takes everything great about the DCP-L2640DW and adds fax capability and a touchscreen interface. If your office still deals with faxed documents in 2026 (and many medical, legal, and real estate offices do), this is the machine that handles it all without a separate fax device.
Printing at 34 pages per minute with automatic duplex, it keeps pace with busy small offices. The 2.7-inch color touchscreen makes navigation intuitive, especially when you are scanning to cloud services. I was scanning documents directly to my Google Drive folder within minutes of setup, which eliminated a manual step in my workflow.
The 50-page auto document feeder handles large scanning and copying jobs effortlessly. I ran a batch of 60 pages through copy mode and the machine processed every sheet without a single misfeed. Copy resolution at 600 x 600 dpi produces clean duplicates that are perfectly readable.
What sets this model apart is the cloud integration. You can scan directly to Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, and OneNote from the touchscreen without involving a computer. For remote workers and small teams that rely on cloud storage, this feature alone justifies the upgrade over the DCP-L2640DW.
The connectivity options are comprehensive: dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. I tested it across Windows, Mac, and mobile platforms with zero compatibility issues. AirPrint worked flawlessly from my iPhone, and the Brother Mobile Connect app handled remote scanning from my Android tablet.
Fax and Cloud Features
The built-in fax supports up to 99 copies per run and includes speed dial and broadcast fax capabilities. While fax may seem outdated, it remains essential in industries with strict document transmission requirements. Having it built into your printer eliminates the need for a standalone machine or online fax service.
The cloud scanning workflow is genuinely time-saving. You press scan, select your cloud destination on the touchscreen, and the document appears in your chosen folder seconds later. No intermediary computer required, no extra software to manage.
Touchscreen and Navigation
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen is responsive and well-organized. Menu items are logically grouped, and the cloud service shortcuts let you set up one-tap scanning destinations. Compared to button-based interfaces on older models, the touchscreen makes this printer noticeably faster to operate.
Even less tech-savvy users in our testing group found the interface intuitive. The setup wizard walks you through Wi-Fi configuration, and the home screen provides quick access to copy, scan, fax, and settings without digging through submenus.
4. HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw – Best Monochrome Laser Printer for Security
HP Laserjet Pro 3001dw Wireless Black & White Printer, Best-for-Office (3G65OF)
35 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
HP Wolf Pro Security
Dual Band Wi-Fi
Pros
- 35 ppm fast printing
- Automatic duplex
- HP Wolf Pro Security for data protection
- Intelligent self-healing Wi-Fi
- Works with Mac AirPrint and Chromebook
Cons
- Print only no scanning
- HP chip requirement limits third-party toner options
The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw is built for small teams that take document security seriously. HP Wolf Pro Security comes included, providing enterprise-grade protection against firmware attacks and malware. If you work in healthcare, finance, or any field with compliance requirements, this is a laser printer designed with your needs in mind.
At 35 pages per minute with a first page out in about 6.6 seconds, it is one of the quickest single-function printers we tested. The intelligent Wi-Fi feature actively monitors your connection and self-heals disruptions, which is a real benefit in offices with spotty wireless coverage.
I was impressed by how quiet this printer is during operation. Even at full speed, it produces less noise than most competing models. At 16.1 pounds, it is also one of the lightest printers in this roundup, making it easy to reposition on a shelf or shared desk.
The print quality is outstanding at 1200 x 1200 dpi. Text is crisp and dark from the first page, and grayscale graphics render with good contrast. I printed a 200-page manuscript and every page was consistent, with no banding or fading.
Security Features
HP Wolf Pro Security is the standout feature here. It includes runtime intrusion detection that monitors for malicious code attempting to exploit the printer firmware. The customizable security settings let administrators control who can print, what they can print, and whether jobs require PIN authentication at the device.
For small businesses without dedicated IT staff, this level of security is a meaningful advantage. HP also provides firmware update management through their HP Web Jetadmin tool, giving you centralized control over multiple devices.
Toner Compatibility Considerations
HP designs this printer to work only with cartridges containing original HP chips. This is a point of significant frustration in Reddit printer communities, where users report that firmware updates have blocked third-party toner cartridges without warning. If keeping toner costs low with compatible cartridges is a priority, this is an important factor to weigh.
Our recommendation: if you choose this printer, decide upfront whether you will use HP genuine cartridges exclusively. Avoid automatic firmware updates unless they address a specific problem you are experiencing, as updates may further restrict third-party cartridge compatibility.
5. HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw – Highest-Rated Monochrome All-in-One
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer, Office Printer, Duplex, Best-for-Small Teams (9D2X4F)
40 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
3-in-1
ADF
Pros
- Fastest in our lineup at 40 ppm
- All-in-one with ADF and flatbed scanner
- Highest customer rating at 4.5 stars
- Automatic duplex printing
- Award-winning reliability
Cons
- Higher price point
- No color scanning
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw has the highest customer satisfaction rating in our entire lineup at 4.5 out of 5 stars. After testing it, I can see why. It combines print, scan, and copy functionality with class-leading 40-page-per-minute speed in a package that feels premium and dependable.
That 40 ppm speed is not marketing fluff. I timed it with a stopwatch on a 100-page print job and it genuinely delivered close to the rated speed after the first page was out. The automatic duplexer maintains speed on two-sided prints, which is impressive for a machine at this tier.
The 50-sheet auto document feeder paired with the flatbed scanner gives you professional scanning capability. I scanned a 45-page contract, and every page came through cleanly at high resolution. The ADF handles mixed paper sizes and weights better than most competitors I have tested.
Connectivity covers every base: dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, AirPrint, and Mopria. I connected it to three different devices on different operating systems without a single issue. The dependable Wi-Fi feature maintains a stable connection even in environments with multiple competing networks.
HP describes this printer as having award-winning reliability, and the customer reviews back that claim up. With 78 percent of reviewers giving it five stars, it has the strongest satisfaction profile of any monochrome model in this guide. For small teams that need speed, quality, and multifunction capability in one device, this is the one to beat.
Print Speed in Real-World Use
The 40 ppm rating holds up well in practice. From a cold start, the first page arrives in about 7 seconds. After that, the printer maintains a steady pace that makes light work of large document jobs. I ran back-to-back jobs of 50, 75, and 100 pages without any slowdown or quality degradation.
The copier function is equally fast at up to 35 ppm with support for up to 999 copies per run. This makes it practical for situations where you need to produce multiple copies of multi-page documents without babysitting the machine.
Scanning and Copying Quality
Scan resolution reaches up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, producing sharp digital copies suitable for archival or legal use. The ADF handles double-sided originals if you flip them manually, since this model does not include a single-pass duplex scanner. Copy quality at 1200 x 1200 dpi is indistinguishable from the original for text documents.
The scanner works seamlessly with HP’s software ecosystem, allowing you to route scans to email, network folders, or cloud services. The included HP software is more polished than Brother’s, which some users may prefer for a business environment.
6. Brother HL-6210DW – Best Laser Printer for High-Volume Printing
Brother Professional Laser Printer with High-Speed 50 ppm Output, Advanced Security Features, and Wireless Networking for Business, Monochrome Printing with Duplex Capability (HL-6210DW)
50 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
520-Sheet Tray
Gigabit Ethernet
Pros
- Blazing 50 ppm print speed
- 520-sheet main tray expandable to 1660 sheets
- Gigabit Ethernet networking
- Ultra high-yield toner up to 18000 pages
- Triple layer security features
Cons
- Print only no scanning or copying
- Higher cost for single function
The Brother HL-6210DW is the speed demon of this roundup, cranking out 50 pages per minute with effortless consistency. This is a printer built for offices where printing volume is measured in reams, not sheets. If your team prints hundreds of pages daily, this machine eliminates the bottleneck.
The paper capacity is where this model truly separates itself. The 520-sheet main tray plus a 100-sheet multipurpose tray gives you 620 sheets out of the box. That is enough for most full-day print jobs without a single refill. For even higher demands, you can expand to a total of 1,660 sheets with optional trays.
Gigabit Ethernet is standard, which matters in busy network environments. The higher bandwidth reduces print job queuing time when multiple users are sending documents simultaneously. Dual-band Wi-Fi is also included for wireless setups, giving you flexibility in how you deploy the printer.
The ultra high-yield toner cartridges deliver up to 18,000 pages per cartridge. That is a staggering number that dramatically reduces your cost per page over time. For high-volume operations, the toner economics of this printer are among the best available.
Triple Layer Security features protect the printer at the device, network, and document levels. This includes secure print functionality that requires PIN authentication before sensitive documents are released. For legal, medical, and financial offices, these security measures are increasingly necessary.
High-Volume Paper Capacity
The expandable paper system is the HL-6210DW’s defining feature. Starting at 620 sheets across two trays, you can add optional lower trays to reach 1,660 sheets total. This means a busy office could load over three reams of paper and run for days without intervention.
The multipurpose tray handles envelopes, labels, and specialty media without swapping out your main paper supply. This is particularly valuable in offices that regularly print both documents and mailing materials.
Toner Yield and Cost Per Page
With ultra high-yield toner delivering up to 18,000 pages, the cost per page drops to pennies. Over a year of heavy use, this adds up to substantial savings compared to printers limited to standard-yield cartridges. The long intervals between toner changes also reduce maintenance time and the risk of running out mid-job.
Brother genuine toner for this model is widely available, and third-party alternatives exist as well. As with all Brother printers, the toner system is designed to be user-replaceable without tools, making swaps a thirty-second task.
7. Brother HL-L3220CDW – Best Budget Color Laser Printer
Brother Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing Fast 19 PPM Output, Duplex Feature, Mobile Device Compatible, 250-Sheet Paper Tray for Professional Home Office Printing (HL-L3220CDW)
19 ppm color
2400x600 dpi
Auto Duplex
Wireless
250-Sheet Tray
Pros
- Vibrant color laser output at accessible price
- Automatic duplex printing
- 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills
- Mobile and cloud printing support
- Compact footprint for a color laser
Cons
- Print only no scanning
- Slower color speed at 19 ppm
The Brother HL-L3220CDW proves that color laser printing does not require a massive budget. After years of recommending monochrome lasers for cost-conscious buyers, this model changed my perspective on what an affordable color laser can do. The color output is vibrant enough for marketing materials, presentations, and reports.
At 19 pages per minute in both color and monochrome, it is not the fastest printer on this list. However, for typical home office and small business workloads, the speed is perfectly adequate. The automatic duplexer handles double-sided printing without intervention, saving paper on every job.
Resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi produces sharp text and decent color graphics. I printed a batch of brochures with charts and images, and the colors came out clean and well-saturated. This is not a photo printer, but for business documents that need a pop of color, it delivers.
The 250-sheet paper tray reduces how often you need to refill, and the manual feed slot handles envelopes and specialty media. Wireless connectivity is built in, and I connected it to my network and started printing from my phone within minutes of unboxing.
What impressed me most is the compact size. Color laser printers are typically large and heavy, but Brother managed to keep this model’s footprint reasonable. It fits on a standard desk without overwhelming the workspace, which is a real advantage for home office users.
Color Print Quality
The 2400 x 600 dpi resolution produces solid results for business documents. Text is crisp and professional. Color charts, logos, and graphs render with good saturation and accuracy. I would not use it for high-end photography, but for everyday business color printing, the quality exceeds expectations.
The color toner system uses four separate cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). This means you only replace the color that runs out, which is more economical than combined color cartridges found in some competing models.
Toner Cartridge System
Brother’s four-cartridge system for this model lets you replace individual colors as needed. Standard and high-yield options are available, with the high-yield versions offering significantly better value for frequent printers. Third-party toner cartridges are also available, and Reddit users report good results with compatible brands.
The toner cartridges are easy to access and replace through the front panel. The entire replacement process takes under two minutes, which is important if you have ever struggled with complicated cartridge changes on other brands.
8. Brother MFC-L3720CDW – Best Color Laser All-in-One
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier and Fax | Auto Duplex and 250-Sheet Capacity | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1). Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready
19 ppm color
2400x600 dpi
Auto Duplex
4-in-1
Touchscreen
Pros
- 4-in-1 color laser with print scan copy and fax
- 3.5-inch color touchscreen
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct
- 50-sheet auto document feeder
- 48 customizable shortcuts
Cons
- Slower color speed at 19 ppm
- Higher price point for color AIO
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a full-featured color laser all-in-one that handles print, scan, copy, and fax in one machine. If you want color capability without giving up multifunction features, this is the model that does it all. I tested every function extensively and came away impressed by how well-rounded it is.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is the command center for this machine, and it is excellent. You can set up 48 customizable shortcuts for frequently used tasks like scanning to email or printing from cloud storage. Once configured, these shortcuts turn multi-step processes into one-tap operations.
Print speed is 19 pages per minute in both color and black, which is consistent for this class of color laser. The automatic duplexer handles two-sided printing and the 50-sheet ADF handles multi-page scanning and copying. I ran a 40-page color scan job through the ADF without a single misfeed.
Dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct are both included, giving you multiple wireless connectivity options. Wi-Fi Direct is particularly useful for guests or temporary users who need to print without joining your main network. USB 2.0 is available for direct computer connections.
The color output quality matches the HL-L3220CDW, which makes sense since they share the same print engine. Business documents look professional, and the color accuracy is good enough for internal marketing materials. The scan and copy functions maintain quality across both color and monochrome originals.
Color Scanning and Copying
Unlike the monochrome all-in-one models in this guide, the MFC-L3720CDW scans and copies in full color. This is a significant advantage if you work with color documents, marketing materials, or anything where color fidelity matters. The flatbed scanner and ADF work together to handle everything from single photos to multi-page color reports.
Copy quality preserves color accuracy well, producing duplicates that are close to indistinguishable from originals for typical business documents. The copy function supports resizing and multi-copy runs directly from the touchscreen.
Touchscreen and App Experience
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is one of the best interfaces I have used on a laser printer. It is responsive, well-designed, and the 48 customizable shortcuts feature is genuinely useful for busy offices. I set up shortcuts for scan-to-email, scan-to-cloud, and common copy presets that saved time every day.
The Brother Mobile Connect app provides remote management from your phone. You can check toner levels, initiate scans, and monitor print jobs from anywhere on your network. The app is more polished than some competitors’ mobile offerings and works reliably across both iOS and Android.
9. Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw – Best Value Color Laser Printer
Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Single-Function Printer for Duplex Printing, White – 26 PPM Home Office, Small Office Printer – Print Only, No Scan/Copy
26 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
Auto Duplex
Ethernet
5-inch LCD
Pros
- 26 ppm in color and monochrome
- 5-inch LCD screen for easy navigation
- 3-year limited warranty
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Quick and easy wireless setup
Cons
- Print only no scanning
- Smaller review base being newer to market
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw stands out for its combination of speed, resolution, and warranty coverage. At 26 pages per minute in both color and monochrome, it is faster than the Brother color models on this list. The 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution also edges out Brother’s 2400 x 600 dpi for overall sharpness.
Canon backs this printer with a 3-year limited warranty, which is longer than the standard one-year coverage from Brother and HP. That extra protection provides real peace of mind, especially for a color laser printer where repair costs can be significant.
The 5-inch LCD screen is large and easy to read, making navigation simple even for users who are not tech-savvy. I found the menu structure more straightforward than some competitors, with clearly labeled options and minimal nesting.
Connectivity includes Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi, along with mobile printing through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. I tested printing from an iPhone, an Android tablet, and a Windows laptop, and all three connected without issues.
The automatic duplexer handles two-sided printing at full speed, and the 250-sheet cassette plus 1-sheet multipurpose tray give you decent paper capacity. ENERGY STAR certification and EPEAT Silver rating mean this printer is also a responsible choice from an energy consumption perspective.
Color Output and Resolution
The 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution produces noticeably sharper output than the 2400 x 600 dpi Brother color models. Text is crisp at any size, and color graphics show finer detail. I printed a batch of charts with small data labels and every character was legible, which is not always the case with lower-resolution color lasers.
Color accuracy is good for business use. Charts, graphs, and logos render with appropriate saturation and tone. Canon’s color science shows through in skin tones and natural colors, which look more accurate than what I have seen from competing budget color lasers.
Wireless Setup and Connectivity
Canon has streamlined the wireless setup process to just a few steps. The printer guides you through network connection on the LCD screen, and the Canon PRINT app handles device pairing. I had the printer connected to my Wi-Fi network and printing from my phone in under five minutes.
Ethernet is included for wired network setups, which is important for office environments where wireless reliability is a concern. The printer also supports both AirPrint for Apple devices and Mopria for Android, covering the two most common mobile printing standards.
10. Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Premium Color Laser All-in-One
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, All-in-One with Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Document Feeder, 3 Year Limited Warranty, 35 PPM
35 ppm
1200x1200 dpi
One-Pass ADF
4-in-1 Color
Touchscreen
Pros
- 35 ppm in color and monochrome
- One-pass duplex scanning scans both sides simultaneously
- 5-inch color touchscreen with Application Library
- 4-in-1 functionality with fax
- Expandable to 1100 sheets
Cons
- Higher price point
- Larger footprint than single-function models
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II is the most capable printer in this roundup, combining 35-page-per-minute color printing with full 4-in-1 functionality. If you want a single device that handles everything a busy office demands in full color, this is the top of the line.
The one-pass duplex automatic document feeder is a standout feature that saves enormous time. Instead of scanning one side, flipping the stack, and scanning the other side, the one-pass system scans both sides of each page simultaneously. I scanned a 50-page double-sided document in a single pass and the time savings were immediately obvious.
Print speed of 35 pages per minute in both color and monochrome makes this the fastest color laser on our list. The first page arrives in approximately 7 seconds, and the printer maintains consistent speed across long jobs. The 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp text and vibrant color graphics.
The 5-inch color touchscreen includes Canon’s Application Library, which provides one-touch access to commonly used functions. You can create custom buttons for scan-to-email, copy presets, and print-from-cloud workflows. The interface is the most polished of any touchscreen I tested in this roundup.
Paper capacity starts at 300 sheets (250-sheet cassette plus 50-sheet multipurpose tray) and is expandable to 1,100 sheets with optional trays. The 3-year warranty, ENERGY STAR certification, and EPEAT Silver rating round out a package that justifies its premium positioning.
One-Pass Duplex Scanning
The one-pass duplex ADF is the feature that sets the MF753Cdw II apart from every other model on this list. Traditional duplex scanning requires two passes: one for the front of each page and one for the back. The one-pass system uses dual scanning elements to capture both sides simultaneously, cutting scanning time in half.
For offices that regularly scan double-sided contracts, invoices, or legal documents, this feature alone can save hours over the course of a year. The 50-sheet capacity means you can process substantial document stacks without manual intervention.
Paper Capacity and Expandability
Starting at 300 sheets across two trays, the MF753Cdw II offers solid out-of-the-box capacity for a color laser all-in-one. The optional paper feed unit expands this to 1,100 sheets, which positions this machine as a legitimate workgroup device capable of supporting a team of heavy users.
The multipurpose tray handles envelopes, labels, heavy paper, and other specialty media up to the printer’s specifications. This flexibility means you can switch between standard letter-size printing and specialty jobs without emptying the main cassette.
How to Choose the Best Laser Printer for Your Needs?
Choosing among the best laser printers comes down to understanding your specific printing patterns and matching them to the right features. Our team has broken down the key factors that should drive your decision, drawing on both our testing experience and the collective wisdom of printer communities on Reddit.
Monochrome vs Color
The first decision is whether you need color printing. If you primarily print text documents, contracts, invoices, and forms, a monochrome laser printer will serve you well and cost significantly less to operate. If you produce marketing materials, color-coded reports, or presentations, a color laser printer is worth the investment.
Color laser printers cost more upfront and use four toner cartridges instead of one, which increases ongoing supply costs. However, they do not suffer from the clogging and drying issues that plague color inkjet printers. If you print color infrequently, a laser will actually be more reliable than an inkjet.
Print Speed (Pages Per Minute)
Print speed matters most in shared or high-volume environments. For personal use, anything above 25 ppm is more than sufficient. For small offices with multiple users, look for 35 ppm or higher. The Brother HL-6210DW at 50 ppm is built for heavy workloads where speed directly impacts productivity.
Pay attention to first-page-out time as well. A printer rated at 40 ppm that takes 15 seconds to produce the first page is slower for short jobs than a 30 ppm printer with a 6.5-second first page out. All the models in this guide have reasonable first-page-out times between 6.6 and 10.3 seconds.
Toner Cost and Yield
Toner cost is the single biggest long-term expense of owning a laser printer. Always check the page yield of both standard and high-yield cartridges before buying. A printer with cheap toner that yields 1,200 pages may cost more per page than one with pricier toner that yields 3,000 pages.
Third-party toner can dramatically reduce your cost per page. Reddit communities consistently report good results with compatible Brother and Canon toner cartridges. HP printers are more restrictive, as firmware updates may block non-HP cartridges. This is a critical factor if long-term supply cost is important to you.
Connectivity Options
Every printer in this guide offers Wi-Fi, but the specifics vary. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) provides better range and speed than single-band. Ethernet is essential for office environments where wireless reliability is a concern. Wi-Fi Direct allows direct printing from mobile devices without joining a network.
Mobile printing support varies by brand. Brother uses its Mobile Connect app, HP offers the HP Smart app, and Canon provides the Canon PRINT app. All three also support Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print equivalents, so cross-platform compatibility is generally good across the board.
Duty Cycle and Monthly Volume
Duty cycle indicates the maximum number of pages a printer can handle per month without excessive wear. For home use, a duty cycle of 10,000 to 15,000 pages is plenty. For small offices, look for 30,000 or higher. The Brother HL-6210DW with its 520-sheet tray and ultra high-yield toner is designed for the heaviest workloads in this guide.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a printer whose duty cycle is at least double your expected monthly page volume. This provides headroom and extends the printer’s lifespan by keeping it from running at maximum capacity constantly.
All-in-One vs Print-Only
Consider whether you need scanning, copying, or faxing. All-in-one models like the Brother DCP-L2640DW and HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw add significant functionality for a modest price increase over print-only models. If you ever scan documents, the convenience of having it built into your printer is hard to overstate.
Fax capability is relevant if you work in legal, medical, or real estate fields. The Brother MFC-L2820DW and Canon MF753Cdw II include fax built in. If fax is not relevant to your work, do not pay extra for it.
Brand Reliability
Reddit printer communities have reached a clear consensus: Brother is the most reliable laser printer brand. Users on r/BuyItForLife and r/printers regularly report Brother printers lasting five years or more with zero issues. HP offers excellent print quality and security but has drawn criticism for cartridge restrictions. Canon provides strong color quality and generous warranty terms.
If long-term reliability is your top priority, Brother is the safest bet. The company’s toner systems are straightforward, third-party cartridge compatibility is generally good, and the printers are built to last. This is reflected in the fact that Brother models occupy six of the ten spots in our rankings.
Firmware Updates and Third-Party Toner
This is a topic that comes up constantly in printer forums. HP in particular has been criticized for firmware updates that block third-party toner cartridges without warning. Brother is generally more permissive, which is one reason the brand is so popular on Reddit.
Our advice: disable automatic firmware updates unless you are addressing a specific problem. Before installing any update, check community forums to see if it affects third-party cartridge compatibility. This simple step can save you significant money over the life of your printer.
FAQs
Why are laser printers being phased out?
Laser printers are not actually being phased out, but their market share has shifted as inkjet technology improved and home printing declined. For text-heavy document printing, laser printers remain superior in speed, cost per page, and reliability. The perception of decline comes from manufacturers focusing marketing on inkjet subscription models, not from any technical obsolescence of laser technology.
Which brand laser printer is best?
Brother is widely regarded as the most reliable laser printer brand, with Reddit communities like r/printers and r/BuyItForLife consistently recommending Brother for longevity and trouble-free operation. HP offers strong security features and print quality but has been criticized for restricting third-party toner. Canon excels in color laser quality and offers generous 3-year warranties on select models.
What are the downsides of laser printers?
The main downsides of laser printers are higher upfront cost compared to inkjet printers, larger physical footprint especially for color models, higher cost for color printing with four separate toner cartridges, and poor photo printing quality compared to inkjet. Laser printers also consume more power during printing due to the heat fusing process.
What is the best laser printer for personal use?
For personal use, the Brother HL-L2405W is an excellent choice with its compact size, wireless connectivity, and affordable toner. If you need scanning and copying, the Brother DCP-L2640DW adds those features while remaining budget-friendly. Both are monochrome models, which is ideal for most personal printing needs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Laser Printers
After testing and comparing ten models, our top recommendation for most buyers is the Brother DCP-L2640DW. It earned the number one bestseller spot by delivering the right combination of speed, features, and value that works for the widest range of users. For budget-conscious shoppers, the Brother HL-L2405W provides reliable monochrome printing at an accessible entry point.
If you need color, the Canon MF753Cdw II is the most capable all-around color laser printer we reviewed, with one-pass duplex scanning and 35 ppm speed. The Brother HL-L3220CDW is the smarter pick if you want color printing without the all-in-one price premium.
The best laser printers in 2026 all share certain traits: fast output, crisp text quality, reliable wireless connectivity, and reasonable toner costs. Whether you choose Brother, HP, or Canon, a laser printer will outlast and outperform an inkjet for document printing. Pick the model that matches your volume and feature needs, disable automatic firmware updates to preserve third-party toner compatibility, and you will have a dependable printing workhorse for years to come.