Brother HL-L3220CDW
3.9Editor score
Automatic duplex printing
Wireless mobile printing
250-sheet paper tray
In this guide
An entry level color laser printer should make everyday documents look polished without introducing a complicated setup or an oversized office footprint. The right model balances color quality, print speed, duplex printing, wireless access, paper capacity, and useful controls, making it well suited to home offices, students, and small teams.
We compared ten current color laser printers by examining the functions and specifications listed for each product. The guide covers single-function and multifunction designs, comparing print-only convenience with scanning and copying, while also considering screens, automatic document feeders, connectivity, toner systems, paper handling, warranties, and output speed.
Each pick highlights a different reason to consider it, from compact printing to touchscreen-led workflow and expanded office functions. Ratings and product details can change over time, and retailer pricing also fluctuates, so readers should verify the latest specifications, cartridge compatibility, and current cost before making a purchase.
Top 3 Picks for Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw
4.3Editor score
Print, scan, and copy
5-inch color touchscreen
Three-year limited warranty
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
4.0Editor score
Print, scan, copy, and fax
50-sheet document feeder
Customizable color touchscreen
Top 10 Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer in 2026 Compared
The table below compares all ten printers by function, speed, connectivity, paper capacity, and document-handling features, making it easier to match a printer to a home office, student workspace, or small team.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Brother HL-L3220CDW
Print-only color laser
Up to 19 pages per minute
Automatic duplex printing
250-sheet standard tray
3.9Editor score
Editor's Choice
Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw
Print-only color laser
Up to 26 pages per minute
Five-line LCD display
250-sheet standard cassette
4.1Editor score
Best Premium
Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 26 pages per minute
Five-inch color touchscreen
Three-year limited warranty
4.0Editor score
Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 22 pages per minute
250-sheet standard cassette
Three-year limited warranty
4.3Editor score
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 26 pages per minute
50-sheet document feeder
250-sheet input tray
3.7Editor score
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
Print, scan, copy, and fax
Up to 19 pages per minute
Three-point-five-inch touchscreen
50-sheet document feeder
4.0Editor score
Brother HL-L3280CDW
Print-only color laser
Up to 27 pages per minute
Two-point-seven-inch touchscreen
Automatic duplex printing
3.9Editor score
Canon imageCLASS MF753Cdw II
Print, scan, copy, and fax
Color duplex laser
Wireless multifunction design
Four functions in one
4.2Editor score
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw
Print-only color laser
Up to 26 pages per minute
Automatic duplex printing
250-sheet input tray
3.4Editor score
Xerox C240
Print-only color laser
Up to 26 pages per minute
Dual-band wireless connectivity
Up to 1,500 monthly pages
4.6Editor score
1. Brother HL-L3220CDW – Best Value Focused Printing
Brother HL-L3220CDW
Up to 19 pages per minute
Automatic duplex printing
250-sheet paper tray
Wireless mobile printing
The Brother HL-L3220CDW is a print-focused color laser model with a 3.9 rating and a feature set aimed at home offices that need polished color documents without paying for a multifunction machine. Its most useful combination is wireless printing, automatic duplexing, mobile-device support, and a 250-sheet paper tray in a relatively straightforward package.
Pros
- Combines color printing with automatic duplexing
- Supports phones, tablets, and laptops
- Manual feed handles specialty media
- Compact print-only design
Cons
- No scanner, copier, or fax
- Slower than several listed models
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Color output is positioned for crisp business text and vibrant graphics, while the listed speed of up to 19 pages per minute should suit routine reports, proposals, school projects, and mixed personal-office use. Automatic duplex printing is a particularly valuable addition because it reduces paper consumption and makes longer documents easier to produce without manually rearranging sheets.
The 250-sheet tray lowers the need for frequent refills, while the manual feed slot expands the range of supported media, including envelopes and specialty stock. Wireless connectivity allows users to print from laptops, smartphones, and tablets, and the stated security protocols add an important layer for sensitive business documents. The principal limitation is that this is a printer only, without scanning or copying.
This model makes the most sense for buyers who already have a separate scanner or rarely need to copy documents. It is also a practical choice when automatic duplexing and mobile printing matter more than having a large touchscreen or an automatic document feeder. For straightforward, affordable color output, the HL-L3220CDW delivers the core features most entry-level users actually need.
Convenient Duplex and Mobile Printing
Automatic duplex printing supports more polished, paper-efficient documents, while mobile and cloud-platform compatibility makes the printer easier to share around a home office. It is a strong match for users who want flexible output locations without a complicated cable.
Useful Paper Handling
The 250-sheet paper tray suits recurring document batches, and the manual feed slot provides a convenient path for envelopes or specialty media. That combination keeps everyday handling simple without limiting unusual print jobs.
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2. Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw – Fast Wireless Color Printing
Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw
Up to 26 pages per minute
Five-line LCD display
250-sheet standard cassette
Automatic duplex printing
The Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw combines a 4.1 rating with a print-only format and a listed speed of up to 26 pages per minute. It is designed for users who want fast color and monochrome output, automatic duplexing, and wireless flexibility without adding scanner or copier functions.
Pros
- High listed print speed
- Supports AirPrint and Mopria
- Dedicated multipurpose paper tray
- ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver
Cons
- No scanning or copying functions
- LCD is not a touchscreen
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Its first-print time of approximately 10.3 seconds helps reduce the waiting involved in shorter jobs. The five-line LCD provides basic navigation without turning the control panel into a large touchscreen. Wireless setup is designed to take only a few steps, and mobile printing works through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service.
Paper handling includes a 250-sheet standard cassette and a one-sheet multipurpose tray. Automatic two-sided printing reduces the need to turn stacks of paper over manually, while high-capacity Canon Genuine Toner 075 or 075 options are intended to reduce replacement frequency. ENERGY STAR certification and EPEAT Silver status also make it appealing to buyers who value efficiency credentials.
The tradeoff is straightforward: this printer cannot scan, copy, or fax. That makes it most appropriate for dedicated printing spaces, remote workers, students, and small offices that already have separate equipment for document reproduction. Its combination of speed, wireless support, and straightforward controls makes it an attractive all-around entry-level choice.
Speed for Routine Office Work
A listed rate of up to 26 pages per minute makes the LBP646Cdw well suited to reports, presentations, and batches of mixed documents. The approximately 10.3-second first-print time is another useful detail for short jobs.
Clear Wireless App Support
Canon PRINT, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service provide several ways to print from compatible mobile devices. The five-line display keeps routine setup and navigation approachable.
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3. Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw – Best Touchscreen Multifunction Choice
Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 26 pages per minute
Five-inch color touchscreen
Three-year limited warranty
The Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw is a wireless color laser multifunction printer with a 4.0 rating. It combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device, making it a practical one-machine option for home offices and small teams that want to reduce the number of separate peripherals on hand.
Pros
- Fast three-function operation
- Large color touchscreen interface
- Automatic duplex printing included
- Three-year limited warranty
Cons
- No fax function listed
- Multifunction design uses more space
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The listed output speed reaches up to 26 pages per minute in color and monochrome, with an approximately 10.3-second first-print time. Its five-inch color touchscreen is one of the clearer interfaces in this list, while the Application Library provides customizable access to commonly used functions for quicker daily operation.
Automatic duplex printing, a 250-sheet standard cassette, and a one-sheet multipurpose tray cover the core document needs of a busy office. Canon Genuine Toner 075 or 075 high-capacity supplies are designed for high page yields and fewer replacements. Wireless setup, mobile printing through Canon PRINT, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria, ENERGY STAR certification, and EPEAT Silver status round out the package.
Unlike several larger multifunction alternatives, fax is not included in the listed functions. That limitation may matter for offices that still rely heavily on traditional fax workflows. Nevertheless, the combination of speed, a large touchscreen, three core office functions, and a three-year limited warranty makes the MF662Cdw one of the most balanced choices for buyers who want more than a printer.
Touchscreen Workflow at the Desk
The five-inch color display gives users direct access to settings and frequently used tasks. Its Application Library helps reduce navigation time, which is useful when scanning and copying are part of a regular daily routine.
Three Functions in One
Print, scan, and copy coverage gives a compact office a single device for common document tasks. Automatic duplex printing and a 250-sheet cassette help preserve paper efficiency and reduce refills.
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4. Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw – Best Balanced Entry-Level Design
Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 22 pages per minute
250-sheet standard cassette
Three-year limited warranty
The Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw carries a 4.3 rating, the highest among the three-function models in this guide, and offers a balanced mix of output speed, connectivity, and office features. It is a strong overall recommendation for users who want to print, scan, and copy without adding a separate fax device.
Pros
- Highest rating among multifunction picks
- Compact three-function design
- Mobile app printing support
- Poster Artist Online included
Cons
- No fax capability listed
- Slower than 26 ppm models
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Color and monochrome output are listed at up to 22 pages per minute, with a first-print time of approximately 10.3 seconds. The standard 250-sheet cassette and one-sheet multipurpose tray provide sensible capacity for regular workloads. Canon Genuine Toner 067 or 067 high-capacity cartridges support continued use with fewer replacement interruptions.
Wireless printing is paired with mobile-app support, including the Canon PRINT app, and the printer is described as mobile ready. Poster Artist Online provides a free web-based way to create posters, banners, and signage. ENERGY STAR Certified, EPEAT Silver, Chromebook compatibility, and a three-year limited warranty add further appeal for budget-conscious home and small-office users.
Its main limitations are the absence of fax and a lower listed speed than the 26 ppm Canon and HP models. For most users, however, the faster workflow and greater equipment consolidation still make this printer a sensible choice. It is especially attractive when color output, scanning, copying, and a strong warranty matter more than reaching the maximum listed page speed.
A Refined Three-Function Workspace
The MF652Cw covers printing, scanning, and copying without adding fax. That makes it more focused for users whose document workflow revolves around producing, digitizing, and reproducing files.
Useful Design Tools Included
Poster Artist Online adds a free browser-based option for banners, posters, and signage. It broadens the printer's appeal for small-business marketing materials without requiring the scanning and copying features to be essential.
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5. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw – Best Document-Feeding Productivity
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw
Print, scan, and copy
Up to 26 pages per minute
50-sheet document feeder
250-sheet input tray
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is built for small teams that regularly print, scan, and copy professional color documents. Its 3.7 rating is the lowest among the multifunction models here, but the listed feature set includes an automatic document feeder, automatic duplex printing, and a 250-sheet input tray.
Pros
- Automatic document feeder included
- Fast color and monochrome output
- Automatic two-sided printing
- Supports business color documents
Cons
- Lowest Canon rating in guide
- Restricts use of some cartridges
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Print speed reaches up to 26 pages per minute in both black and color, which is useful for offices producing reports, presentations, and other business materials. HP describes its next-generation TerraJet toner as producing vivid color, while Original HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield LaserJet cartridges provide two stated supply options.
The automatic document feeder is the standout feature for anyone regularly copying or scanning multipage documents. Combined with scan and copy functions, it reduces the need to place each sheet on a flatbed. Wireless connectivity supports shared access, and the listed product specifications emphasize reliable business performance and automatic two-sided output.
An important limitation is the printer's stated restriction to cartridges with HP chips or circuitry. It will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry, and periodic firmware updates are intended to maintain the effectiveness of those measures. Buyers should account for this ecosystem requirement. Despite that limitation, the 3301sdw is a capable choice for small teams that value fast output and hands-off document feeding.
Automate Multipage Document Work
The 50-sheet automatic document feeder is valuable for recurring copy and scan jobs. It allows pages to be processed as a stack, making the multifunction design more useful for team workflows.
Fast Business Color Output
Up to 26 pages per minute in color and monochrome supports active work environments. Automatic duplexing and a 250-sheet tray complement the speed with paper-efficient handling.
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6. Brother MFC-L3720CDW – Best Premium Office Functionality
Brother MFC-L3720CDW
Print, scan, copy, and fax
Up to 19 pages per minute
Three-point-five-inch touchscreen
50-sheet document feeder
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW is the most functionally complete premium recommendation in this guide, combining color printing, scanning, copying, and fax. Its 4.0 rating reflects a versatile device aimed at office environments where consolidating functions and improving workflow visibility are priorities.
Pros
- Complete four-function office device
- Customizable touchscreen shortcuts
- Dual-band wireless networking
- Direct cloud service access
Cons
- Larger multifunction footprint
- Lower speed than fastest models
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Its three-point-five-inch color touchscreen provides 48 customizable shortcuts and direct access to popular cloud services including Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneNote. That interface is more versatile than the small or line-based displays offered by several print-only competitors. The listed 19-page-per-minute speed is sufficient for many business documents, though it does not lead this group.
Connectivity includes dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless networking, Wi-Fi Direct, and a USB 2.0 interface. A 50-sheet automatic document feeder supports multi-page scanning and copying, while a 250-sheet adjustable paper tray and automatic duplex printing support efficient document handling. Mobile printer management and toner-level monitoring are available through the companion app.
The main trade-off is size and relative speed. A four-function machine with a feeder and touchscreen naturally occupies more desk space than a compact single-function model, and the 19 ppm rating is below several faster alternatives. For buyers who value workflow customization, cloud access, strong connectivity, and the complete print-scan-copy-fax package, though, this Brother offers excellent premium utility.
Customizable Office Workflow
Forty-eight touchscreen shortcuts put frequently selected functions closer at hand. Direct cloud access also helps users move between stored documents and active tasks with less reliance on a computer.
Flexible Wireless and Paper Handling
Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB 2.0 provide several connection choices. The 50-sheet feeder, 250-sheet adjustable tray, and automatic duplex printing support sustained office document work.
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7. Brother HL-L3280CDW – Best Compact Cloud-Connected Printer
Brother HL-L3280CDW
Up to 27 pages per minute
Two-point-seven-inch touchscreen
Automatic duplex printing
Ethernet connectivity
The Brother HL-L3280CDW is a print-only wireless color laser printer with a 3.9 rating and the fastest listed speed in the group. At up to 27 pages per minute, it is built for users who want quick document production, automatic duplexing, and cloud-based printing without the footprint of a multifunction machine.
Pros
- Fastest listed print speed
- Built-in cloud application access
- Ethernet supports wired networks
- Compact print-only format
Cons
- No scanning or copying
- Touchscreen is smaller than Canon models
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Its compact design is specifically identified for small offices and home offices. A 2.7-inch touchscreen gives direct access to cloud-based services including Google Drive, Dropbox, EverNote, and other commonly used applications. That makes the printer convenient for pulling documents from cloud storage rather than requiring every file to be opened on a connected computer first.
Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use during longer jobs, while wireless printing and mobile printing make the device convenient to share. Ethernet connectivity is another useful option for offices that prefer a stable wired network connection. The included two-month Refresh Trial is also listed as part of the package, though its exact terms should be confirmed with the retailer.
The obvious limitation is the lack of scanning, copying, and fax capabilities. The smaller touchscreen may also offer less visual space than the five-inch displays on the Canon multifunction models. Nevertheless, for fast, focused printing with direct cloud access, the HL-L3280CDW is a compact and capable selection.
Cloud Printing Without a Computer
The built-in touchscreen provides direct access to commonly used cloud services. It is a convenient way to print remote documents from services such as Google Drive and Dropbox.
Fast Duplex Output
A listed speed of up to 27 pages per minute leads the group, while automatic duplex printing helps manage paper use. Ethernet and wireless options also make network placement flexible.
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8. Canon imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Best Four-Function Canon Option
Canon imageCLASS MF753Cdw II
Print, scan, copy, and fax
Color duplex laser
Wireless multifunction design
Four functions in one
The Canon imageCLASS MF753Cdw II is a 4.2-rated, all-in-one color laser printer with a four-function feature set. Printing, scanning, copying, and faxing provide broad document coverage, making it a natural choice for users who want a single machine rather than several separate devices.
Pros
- Complete four-function capability
- Automatic duplex printing
- Wireless office connectivity
- Strong customer rating
Cons
- Fewer detailed specifications provided
- No entry-level control details listed
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Wireless connectivity makes the printer suitable for shared office placement, and automatic duplex printing supports more efficient two-sided documents. The combination of color output and multipurpose office functions is especially relevant for administrative work, forms, internal reports, and routine copying.
The supplied product information is concise and does not list a specific output speed, paper capacity, display type, or document-feeder size. As a result, this recommendation should be evaluated on the confirmed four-function feature set rather than on specifications that are not provided. Buyers who require exact feeder capacity or toner compatibility should consult the current product listing and documentation.
Compared with the three-function Canon models in this guide, the MF753Cdw II adds fax, which remains relevant in some offices. Against larger premium multifunction systems, it may offer a more focused entry-level path to the same broad function set. The higher rating and wireless duplex design make it worth considering when complete office coverage is the priority.
Complete Document Coverage
Print, scan, copy, and fax functions give the printer a broad role in office workflows. This consolidation is particularly useful where users still need fax alongside modern document tools.
Wireless Duplex Design
Wireless placement allows the device to serve multiple users without a fixed cable, while automatic duplex printing supports paper-efficient output. Both features align well with a shared small-office environment.
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9. HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw – Best Straightforward Office Printer
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw
Up to 26 pages per minute
Automatic duplex printing
250-sheet input tray
Dual-band wireless networking
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw is a wireless print-only color laser model with a 3.4 rating. Its core appeal lies in fast output, automatic duplex printing, a 250-sheet input tray, and dual-band Wi-Fi rather than in scanning or copying.
Pros
- Fast listed color output
- Automatic duplex printing included
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset
- Large input tray capacity
Cons
- Lowest product rating here
- Restricts compatible cartridge circuitry
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The listed speed of up to 26 pages per minute in black and color is suitable for small teams producing reports, presentations, and professional-looking documents. HP's TerraJet toner is described as delivering more vivid colors, while the automatic two-sided feature helps users conserve paper during multi-page jobs.
Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset is designed to detect and resolve connection issues automatically, reducing some of the friction associated with wireless setup. The 250-sheet input tray also supports less frequent paper refills. These features make the printer straightforward for offices that only need dependable color output and flexible wireless placement.
As with the HP multifunction model, the printer is intended to work only with cartridges containing HP chips or circuitry, and it will block cartridges without those components. Periodic firmware updates help maintain that restriction. Its 3.4 rating is the lowest in this guide, so buyers should consider both its practical feature set and their willingness to remain within the supported cartridge ecosystem.
Self-Correcting Wireless Setup
Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset can identify and resolve connection issues automatically. This is useful in offices where network reliability and simple placement are priorities.
Efficient Paper Handling
Automatic duplex printing reduces manual page turning and supports paper savings. The 250-sheet input tray reduces refill frequency during routine document batches.
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10. Xerox C240 – Best Guided Entry-Level Setup
Xerox C240
Up to 26 pages per minute
Dual-band wireless connectivity
Apple AirPrint and Mopria
Up to 1,500 pages monthly
The Xerox C240 has the highest customer rating in this selection at 4.6, and its defining feature is a guided setup experience. This print-only wireless color laser is aimed at small businesses, professional teams, and hybrid workers who want a manageable way to add reliable color output.
Pros
- Highest customer rating listed
- Guided smartphone-based setup
- Broad mobile printing support
- Sharp text and color graphics
Cons
- Print-only configuration
- No scanner or copier included
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The Xerox Easy Assist App provides smartphone-guided installation intended to simplify setup and reduce reliance on complex manuals. Once connected, users can print from laptops, smartphones, or tablets through dual-band Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, or Mopria. This combination of onboarding and broad mobile support is especially relevant to users who are not comfortable with traditional driver-based configuration.
Output speed is listed at up to 26 pages per minute, with sharp text and vibrant color graphics intended for reports, presentations, and professional documents. The printer is designed for reliable printing up to 1,500 pages per month. Standard-yield toner supports lighter use, while high-yield options are available to reduce the frequency of replacements over time.
The C240 does not scan, copy, or fax, so buyers wanting an all-in-one device will need to look elsewhere. Its focus is instead on straightforward color printing, efficient toner choices, and setup simplicity. Given the highest rating in the group and the easy guided installation, the C240 is an especially attractive pick for first-time laser printer buyers and mobile-first workspaces.
Simplified Mobile Setup
The Xerox Easy Assist App guides users through installation from a smartphone. That approach can reduce setup friction for users who want straightforward wireless configuration.
Flexible for Different Workloads
The printer is intended for up to 1,500 pages per month, with standard and high-yield toner options for lighter and heavier use. Its 26-page-per-minute speed suits routine professional output.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
The right choice depends on the documents you produce, the people sharing the printer, and the features you actually use. Compare output needs, workflow functions, connectivity, paper handling, consumables, and warranty coverage before deciding.
Print-Only or Multifunction
A print-only laser is usually the simpler option when printing is the primary task and scanning or copying is handled elsewhere. The Brother HL-L3220CDW, Canon imageCLASS LBP646Cdw, Brother HL-L3280CDW, HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw, and Xerox C240 fall into this category. Their smaller feature sets can simplify setup and reduce the amount of desk space required. A multifunction model is more useful when documents need to be reproduced, digitized, or sent through a traditional fax workflow. The Canon MF662Cdw and MF652Cw provide print, scan, and copy, while the Canon MF753Cdw II and Brother MFC-L3720CDW add fax. Choose based on current usage rather than on functions you may never use, but also consider whether shared users could benefit from a single consolidated device.
Print Speed
Pages per minute indicate how quickly a printer can produce a stated volume of pages under the manufacturer's testing conditions. Actual speed can vary with document complexity, color coverage, and connection method. The Brother HL-L3280CDW leads the listed group at up to 27 ppm, while the Canon LBP646Cdw, Canon MF662Cdw, HP 3301sdw, HP 3201dw, and Xerox C240 are listed at up to 26 ppm. The Canon MF652Cw reaches up to 22 ppm, and the Brother HL-L3220CDW and MFC-L3720CDW are listed at up to 19 ppm. Speed matters most when printing many pages at once. For occasional documents, a slightly slower model may still satisfy the workload while offering a more suitable price, size, or feature set.
Duplex and Paper Handling
Automatic duplex printing saves paper and reduces interruptions when handling long documents. Every printer in this guide includes automatic two-sided printing, making it a standard feature rather than a distinguishing upgrade. Paper capacity is also important. The Canon MF662Cdw, Canon MF652Cw, HP 3301sdw, HP 3201dw, and Brother HL-L3220CDW list a 250-sheet primary tray, while the Brother MFC-L3720CDW has a 250-sheet adjustable tray and a 50-sheet automatic document feeder. The Brother HL-L3280CDW has an integrated touchscreen but no scanner, so its document feeder is not an advantage. A multipurpose tray adds flexibility for envelopes and specialty media even when a larger manual-feed slot is available.
Wireless and Mobile Connectivity
Wireless access makes a printer easier to place and share, especially in homes and offices where a dedicated cable is inconvenient. Most models support standard Wi-Fi and mobile printing, while some provide more advanced choices. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW includes dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz networking, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB 2.0. The HP 3201dw includes dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset, and the Xerox C240 also supports dual-band Wi-Fi. Canon models support the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. The Brother HL-L3280CDW and MFC-L3720CDW add direct touchscreen access to cloud services, which can be especially convenient for retrieving documents from storage.
Control Panel and User Interface
The control panel determines how easily users access settings and cloud tools. A five-line LCD is appropriate for basic navigation, while touchscreens provide more direct access to frequently used functions. The Canon MF662Cdw uses a five-inch color touchscreen with an Application Library, and the Brother MFC-L3720CDW uses a three-point-five-inch color display with 48 customizable shortcuts. The Brother HL-L3280CDW includes a two-point-seven-inch touchscreen for cloud apps. If an office will employ several people or share scanning and copying tasks, a larger display can reduce training time. For a print-only unit used by one or two people, a simpler interface may be entirely sufficient.
Toner and Cartridge Compatibility
Consumable design affects replacement frequency, ongoing operating choices, and how the printer is serviced. Canon models in this guide use Genuine Toner 075 or 075 on the LBP646Cdw and MF662Cdw, while the MF652Cw uses Genuine Toner 067 or 067. The HP models use Original HP 218A and 218X LaserJet cartridges. Xerox offers standard-yield toner and high-yield options. Importantly, both HP products are designed to work only with cartridges containing HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges without those components. Confirm cartridge model numbers, yield options, regional availability, and firmware notices before buying. These restrictions can make genuine or manufacturer-supported supplies the simplest and most predictable choice.
Output Quality and Color Use
Color laser printers are especially useful for reports, charts, school projects, marketing materials, and documents that combine text with graphics. The Brother models emphasize professional-quality or laser-quality color output, the HP models describe TerraJet toner as producing vivid color, and the Xerox C240 is positioned for sharp text and brilliant color graphics. If most jobs are monochrome, a faster monochrome-only model could be more efficient, but that falls outside this color-focused comparison. For mixed use, look for automatic duplexing, sufficient speed, and toner options that match the expected monthly volume. The Xerox is described for up to 1,500 pages per month, making its stated workload range particularly relevant to small teams.
Warranty and Environmental Credentials
Warranty length can add confidence, particularly for an office machine that will be used frequently. Canon includes a one-year limited warranty with the LBP646Cdw and three-year limited warranties with the MF662Cdw, MF652Cw, and MF753Cdw II. ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver certifications appear for several Canon models, while the MF652Cw is described as ENERGY STAR Certified and EPEAT Silver. The MF753Cdw II receives a three-year limited warranty and a 4.2 rating. Warranty terms can vary by region or seller, so buyers should confirm coverage directly. These credentials are useful supporting considerations, but they should not replace checking ongoing toner costs, replacement-part support, and the device's fit with your daily workflow.
How to Use and Care for Your Entry Level Color Laser Printer
Begin by unpacking the printer, removing any packing material, installing the required toner cartridges, and loading plain paper into the main tray. Add appropriate media to the multipurpose or manual feed slot when needed, and connect the machine using its available wireless or wired options. For mobile printing, install the manufacturer's app, join the printer to the correct network, and confirm that the computer or phone is configured for the same platform.
Use the correct paper type and loading orientation recommended in the printer guide. When changing settings, adjust the tray and driver options to match the selected media rather than relying on automatic detection for every stock type. Use automatic duplexing for long documents, the document feeder for multipage scanning or copying when available, and the manual feed for envelopes or specialty paper. Review a short test page before beginning a large job.
Keep the machine in a clean, open environment and follow the cartridge replacement prompts. If the image becomes faded, streaked, or uneven, run the appropriate cleaning cycle and confirm that the toner and paper are compatible with the model. Protect wireless access with a strong network password, update firmware when the manufacturer requests it, and keep consumable model numbers on hand so replacements match the printer exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an entry level color laser printer suitable for a home office?
Yes, an entry level color laser printer can be well suited to a home office that produces reports, invoices, lesson plans, proposals, or occasional graphics. Automatic duplexing and wireless printing are especially useful in shared spaces. The best model depends on whether you need scanning and copying as well as printing, and on how often you print large color-heavy jobs.
Should I buy a color laser printer or an inkjet printer?
A color laser printer is generally suited to high-volume text documents because laser output is designed for recurring office work and fast automatic duplexing. Inkjets may suit users who print a small number of photos or need specialized media support. For the business-style documents featured in this guide, a color laser offers a more focused office workflow.
What does automatic duplex printing mean?
Automatic duplex printing allows a printer to produce both sides of a sheet without the user manually turning and reinserting the paper. It reduces paper consumption and makes multi-page documents easier to finish. Every model in this comparison lists automatic two-sided printing, so this feature is a consistent baseline rather than a premium-only benefit.
Do I need a multifunction color laser printer?
A multifunction model is worthwhile if you regularly scan, copy, or fax. Print-only options are simpler and may be preferable when another scanner is already available or when desk space is limited. If you want one device for a small team, the Canon MF662Cdw, Canon MF652Cw, HP 3301sdw, and Brother MFC-L3720CDW provide different combinations of those functions.
Can these printers print from phones and tablets?
Yes, the listed specifications support mobile printing across the group. Canon models use the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service, while Brother and HP provide their own mobile and cloud integration. The Xerox C240 also lists Apple AirPrint and Mopria support alongside a smartphone-guided setup app.
Which cartridge should I buy for these printers?
The correct cartridge depends on the exact model and its region. Canon LBP646Cdw and MF662Cdw devices use Canon Genuine Toner 075 or 075, the MF652Cw uses Canon Genuine Toner 067 or 067, and the HP models use HP 218A or 218X cartridges. Xerox C240 users can choose standard or high-yield options. Confirm the model number and current supply specifications before ordering.
Are third-party cartridges safe for these color laser printers?
Compatibility is especially important for the HP Color LaserJet Pro models because they are designed to work only with cartridges containing HP chips or circuitry and can block cartridges without them. Other models may have different restrictions, so the manufacturer's compatibility guidance should be checked for the specific printer. Manufacturer-supported cartridges can provide the most predictable setup and supply experience.
How much printer speed does a small business need?
The right speed depends on whether documents are printed one at a time or in recurring batches. Models listed at 22 to 27 ppm are better suited to frequent work than those listed at 19 ppm, and the Canon MF662Cdw and HP 3301sdw also add a document feeder for multipage scanning and copying. First-print time, duplexing, and paper handling can matter as much as peak speed.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Entry Level Color Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L3220CDW stands out as the value-focused choice, combining wireless color printing, automatic duplexing, mobile support, and a 250-sheet tray without unnecessary multifunction complexity. The Canon imageCLASS MF652Cw is the most balanced overall pick for its 4.3 rating, three-function design, compact paper handling, and three-year warranty, while the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers the most premium workflow through four functions, a document feeder, cloud access, and a customizable touchscreen.
Prioritize the capabilities you will use regularly. Choose a print-only model for focused output, a three-function model for scanning and copying, or a four-function device when fax remains important. Also compare listed speed, paper capacity, toner yield options, mobile support, warranty coverage, and the physical space required for the printer and its output tray.
Product details, customer ratings, and retailer pricing can change, so confirm the current specification sheet, cartridge compatibility, warranty terms, and latest offer before purchasing. Those final checks will ensure that the selected printer still matches your document volume, network, and budget at the time of purchase.