Searching for an office all-in-one laser printer means balancing speed, print quality, and cost-efficiency. The Brother MFC-L2820DW stands out as the best overall choice for its reliability and low running costs, while the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw impresses with vibrant color printing for creative offices. These printers offer fast performance and versatile features, but they also come with tradeoffs—such as higher upfront costs or limited color options. Keep reading to see a detailed comparison that helps you find the perfect fit for your office needs.
Key Takeaways
- Speed and duty cycle are key factors that differentiate high-performance models from budget options.
- Color printing capabilities significantly impact overall cost and should match your actual needs to avoid overspending.
- Wireless connectivity and mobile printing features enhance convenience but can vary in reliability between brands.
- Initial purchase price often masks ongoing costs like toner replacement and maintenance, which are critical for total value.
- Compact design options may save space but often compromise on paper capacity and speed, making them less suitable for high-volume offices.
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Offices | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm (black/colour) | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Color Office Printing | Printer Type: Laser | Print Speed: 30 ppm (color and black & white) | Maximum Copy Speed: 26 ppm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Small Businesses | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm (black/color) | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, Secure Monochrome Office Work | Print Speed: Up to 42 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth | Auto Duplex: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Business-Grade Color Printing and Security | Print Speed: Up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: Up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax |  | Best Overall for Versatile Office Needs | Print Speed: up to 19 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Auto Document Feeder: 50 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams with High-Speed Monochrome Needs | Print Speed: up to 35 ppm | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xerox B225DNI All-in-One Laser Printer, Black & White, Wireless, ADF, 36PPM, Energy Star Certified |  | Best Compact Monochrome for Space-Conscious Small Offices | Printer Type: Laser | Color: Black & White | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing Fast Black-and-White Document Handling | Print Speed: up to 35 ppm | Print Type: Laser | Color: Black and White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use |  | Best for Small Offices with Compact, Secure Monochrome Printing | Printer Type: Laser | Print Speed: 28 pages per minute | Color: Black & White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
This model shines as the most balanced choice in this lineup, with a compact footprint ideal for small office spaces. Its fast print speed of 36 ppm and 23.6 ipm scan rate boost productivity, especially when compared to the Brother DCP-L2640DW, which shares similar speeds but offers more connectivity options. The Brother MFC-L2820DW’s cloud integration makes remote printing straightforward, yet its monochrome-only output limits versatility for offices needing color. The small 2.7-inch touchscreen might be less intuitive for frequent users, and toner costs can become a recurring expense. Still, its combination of speed, size, and connectivity makes it a versatile workhorse for space-constrained environments.
Pros:- Compact design fits small office spaces
- Fast printing and scanning speeds
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and Ethernet
- Cloud printing and scanning capabilities
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Small touchscreen may be less user-friendly
- Toner replacement costs can add up
Best for: Small offices needing reliable monochrome printing with space constraints
Not ideal for: Teams requiring color printing or advanced touchscreen navigation
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm (black/colour)
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
Bottom line: This printer offers a strong mix of speed, size, and connectivity, making it ideal for small monochrome office setups.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
Compared with the monochrome-focused Brother MFC-L2820DW, the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw elevates office output with vibrant color and high-speed printing at 30 ppm, making it suitable for creative or marketing teams. Its dual trays and 250-sheet input capacity support high-volume workflows, but at a weight of over 37 pounds, it’s less portable. The reliance on HP-specific cartridges can limit options and increase ongoing costs, especially for offices wanting to avoid proprietary supplies. While it excels in producing professional-quality color documents, it lacks advanced photo printing features, which might be a downside for those needing high-fidelity images. Overall, this model is geared toward offices that prioritize color and high-volume printing, accepting its weight and cartridge restrictions.
Pros:- Fast print speeds suitable for busy offices
- Wireless and Ethernet for flexible setup
- All-in-one functionality including scan and copy
- Auto duplex printing saves paper
Cons:- Heavy at 37.7 pounds, less portable
- Limited to HP-specific cartridges
- No detailed info on photo printing quality
Best for: Design teams or marketing departments needing high-quality color output
Not ideal for: Small startups with limited space or budget-conscious offices wary of proprietary cartridges
- Printer Type:Laser
- Print Speed:30 ppm (color and black & white)
- Maximum Copy Speed:26 ppm
- Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
Bottom line: This color laser provides fast, versatile printing for creative teams willing to handle its weight and cartridge costs.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan
For small business users seeking affordability and efficiency, the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers a compelling monochrome solution. It matches the Brother MFC-L2820DW’s speed of 36 ppm but adds a 50-page auto document feeder and a modest 250-sheet paper capacity. Its dual-band Wi-Fi and USB options provide versatile connectivity, though it’s limited to black-and-white output, which might be a drawback compared to color-capable models like the HP 3301sdw. The device’s eco-friendly features, like duplex printing and toner save mode, help reduce operational costs. However, its basic feature set lacks some of the advanced functionalities of higher-end models, making it better suited for straightforward document workflows rather than complex tasks.
Pros:- Affordable price point
- Fast printing and scanning speeds
- Compact footprint saves space
- Eco-friendly features like duplex printing
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output
- Requires compatible Brother toner cartridges
- Basic feature set lacks advanced options
Best for: Small businesses prioritizing cost-effective monochrome printing and space efficiency
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or advanced multifunction features
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm (black/color)
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), Ethernet, USB
Bottom line: This model is a practical, budget-friendly choice for monochrome tasks in small office environments.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer
Standing out with a rapid 42 ppm print speed, the HP LaserJet Pro 4101fdw is designed for busy small teams that need reliable monochrome output. Its auto duplex and robust security features, including HP Wolf Pro Security, make it suitable for sensitive documents, especially when compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW’s focus on small office convenience. However, its reliance on original HP cartridges, which include chips, could increase ongoing costs and complicate third-party toner usage. While it excels in speed and security, it’s primarily monochrome, limiting its versatility compared to color models like the HP 3301sdw. This printer suits offices with demanding speed and security needs, accepting the tradeoff of higher initial expense and proprietary consumables.
Pros:- Fastest printing speed at 42 ppm
- Secure printing with advanced security features
- Wireless, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Auto duplex printing for efficiency
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Limited to monochrome printing
- Potentially higher ongoing costs
Best for: Small teams prioritizing speed, security, and monochrome output
Not ideal for: Offices needing color print capability or budget-conscious setups relying on third-party cartridges
- Print Speed:Up to 42 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Maximum Users:Up to 10
Bottom line: Ideal for security-conscious, high-volume monochrome offices that value speed and dependability.
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW combines high-speed color printing with advanced security features, making it the most capable and feature-rich in this lineup. Its impressive scan speed of up to 104 ipm ensures quick document processing, and the 7-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation. Compared to the HP 3301sdw, it provides better color fidelity and a wider set of security options like NFC badge authentication. The high initial cost might deter small offices on a tight budget, and its larger footprint demands more space. While complex to set up, its high-yield toner options help control long-term costs. This model excels where color, speed, and security are the priorities for busy, security-minded businesses.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds boost productivity
- Advanced security features protect sensitive data
- Large 7-inch color touchscreen for ease of use
- High-yield toner options reduce long-term costs
Cons:- Higher initial purchase price
- Larger footprint requires more space
- Complex setup process for non-technical users
Best for: Medium-sized businesses needing fast, secure, color multifunctionality
Not ideal for: Small offices with limited space or tight budgets reluctant to invest heavily upfront
- Print Speed:Up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:Up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Touchscreen:7-inch color
- Security:Triple layer security, NFC badge authentication
Bottom line: This high-performance color laser suits businesses seeking speed, security, and color quality at a higher cost.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer with Scanner, Copier, and Fax
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out as the most versatile option in this roundup, offering color laser printing alongside scanning, copying, and faxing. Its fast output of up to 19 ppm and large paper capacity make it well-suited for busy offices that need more than just black-and-white output. Compared with monochrome models like the Xerox B225DNI, it provides the added benefit of color, but this comes with higher toner costs and a larger footprint. The touchscreen interface and automatic duplex printing enhance workflow, but the initial price and toner replacement expenses are notable tradeoffs. This printer makes the most sense for offices that require diverse document types with color, balancing flexibility with cost considerations.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 19 ppm for both color and monochrome documents
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB
- Automatic duplex printing to save time and paper
- Intuitive 3.5-inch color touchscreen with shortcuts
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to monochrome-only printers
- Space-consuming footprint that might not fit small desks
- Toner replacement can be expensive, especially for color cartridges
Best for: Small to medium-sized offices needing versatile color printing and multi-function capabilities.
Not ideal for: Very small offices or personal use where color printing isn’t necessary, as it may be too large and costly.
- Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color with 48 shortcuts
- Toner Replacement:Costly for color cartridges
Bottom line: This model works best for offices that need flexible, color-capable multifunction printing with a focus on productivity, accepting higher costs and size.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw excels in delivering fast black-and-white output, making it a top choice for small teams focused on document productivity. Its impressive speed of up to 35 ppm surpasses many monochrome models like the Xerox B225DNI, especially for high-volume tasks. The device’s wireless and Ethernet options, along with automatic duplexing, support flexible office setups. However, it’s limited to monochrome printing, which might be a drawback for offices needing color. Its compact design and reliable performance make it suitable for professional environments where speed and efficiency matter most, but color or multifunction features are not priorities.
Pros:- High-speed printing at up to 35 ppm
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexible setup
- Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- Reliable performance with professional output quality
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color option
- Not suitable for large offices with high-volume color needs
- Higher purchase cost compared to basic monochrome printers
Best for: Small teams needing fast, reliable black-and-white printing with multifunction capabilities.
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or those with large document volume that exceeds the device’s capacity.
- Print Speed:up to 35 ppm
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Auto Document Feeder:Yes
- Suitable for:Up to 7 people
Bottom line: Ideal for small teams prioritizing speed and reliability in black-and-white printing, but not suited for color demands.
Xerox B225DNI All-in-One Laser Printer, Black & White, Wireless, ADF, 36PPM, Energy Star Certified
The Xerox B225DNI combines compact size with impressive speed at 36 ppm, making it a strong choice for small offices or home setups. Its small footprint compared to larger multifunction printers like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW allows it to fit neatly into tight spaces, yet it still offers wireless connectivity, an automatic document feeder, and a 250-sheet paper capacity. Its Energy Star certification emphasizes energy efficiency, ideal for environmentally conscious users. The main limitation is its monochrome-only design, which may restrict use for offices needing color. Nonetheless, its balance of speed, size, and energy savings makes it suitable for individuals or small teams prioritizing efficiency and space saving.
Pros:- Fast printing at 36 pages per minute
- Compact design fits small spaces
- Wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity
- Energy Star certified for efficiency
Cons:- Limited to black-and-white printing only
- Higher initial cost relative to basic printers
- No color printing capability
Best for: Small offices or home workers needing fast monochrome printing in a compact form.
Not ideal for: Offices that require color printing or multifunction capabilities beyond monochrome scanning and copying.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Color:Black & White
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
Bottom line: This printer is best suited for small, space-limited environments needing fast monochrome output with energy efficiency.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw offers a compact, reliable solution for small teams requiring speed and simplicity. Its 35 ppm black-and-white printing, combined with automatic duplexing and a 250-sheet tray, makes it suitable for professional office environments like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, but with a more streamlined setup. Its wireless connectivity and secure printing features add convenience, though it remains monochrome-only, similar to the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw. This device excels in delivering fast, straightforward document processing, but the absence of color limits its versatility.
Pros:- Fast printing at 35 ppm for professional documents
- Wireless connectivity and secure printing features
- Automatic duplexing to save paper
- Compact, easy to place in small offices
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color option
- No advanced multifunction features beyond scanning and copying
- Potential firmware updates needed for security improvements
Best for: Small office teams focused on high-volume, fast black-and-white document production.
Not ideal for: Offices needing color prints or multifunction features like scanning to email or PDF, which are limited here.
- Print Speed:up to 35 ppm
- Print Type:Laser
- Color:Black and White
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
Bottom line: This model suits small teams prioritizing speed and simplicity in monochrome printing without unnecessary extras.
HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use
The HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw combines a compact footprint with efficient duplex printing, making it suitable for small offices with limited space. Its 28 ppm speed balances performance for everyday document tasks, similar to the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, but with fewer multifunction options. Its secure, wireless, and mobile printing features enhance usability, yet it remains monochrome-only, limiting its versatility for offices that require color. The device is energy-efficient and easy to set up, but the slower copy speed and lack of color may be drawbacks for high-volume or diverse printing needs.
Pros:- Fast two-sided printing at 28 ppm
- Wireless, Ethernet, and mobile device compatibility
- Compact size fits small office spaces
- Secure features like scan to email and PDF
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Maximum copy speed of 14 ppm may slow high-volume tasks
- No color printing capabilities
Best for: Small offices or remote workers needing reliable, secure monochrome printing in a compact form.
Not ideal for: Offices that require color printing or high-volume copying, as its speed and capabilities are limited.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Print Speed:28 pages per minute
- Color:Black & White
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Maximum Copy Speed:14 ppm
Bottom line: This printer is best for small offices prioritizing secure, fast monochrome output in a compact design, accepting limited multifunctionality.
How We Picked
This lineup was chosen based on a combination of performance, usability, and value. We evaluated each printer’s print speed, print quality, connectivity options, and ease of setup. Energy efficiency and maintenance costs also played a role in assessing long-term value. To rank these models, we balanced features against price, considering who each printer is best suited for—whether for small teams, large offices, or budget-conscious buyers. The goal was to highlight options that deliver reliable, high-quality performance while offering a range of price points and functionalities.Factors to Consider When Choosing Office All-in-one Laser Printer
Choosing the right office all-in-one laser printer involves several factors beyond just features. Understanding your office’s volume, color needs, and budget can prevent overspending or underperformance. A good printer should balance speed, print quality, connectivity, and ongoing costs. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting your ideal device.Print Speed and Duty Cycle
Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), directly affects workflow efficiency, especially in busy offices. Duty cycle indicates the maximum volume a printer can handle monthly without premature wear. A model with a higher duty cycle and faster PPM is better suited for high-volume environments, but these often come at a higher initial cost. For smaller offices or less frequent printing, a slower, less expensive model might suffice while reducing ongoing expenses.
Color vs. Monochrome Printing
Color laser printers allow for more versatile document presentations, but they typically incur higher toner costs and maintenance. If your office rarely prints in color, a monochrome model offers significant savings and faster output. Conversely, creative or marketing teams will benefit from color capabilities, making the investment worthwhile. Consider your actual needs carefully to avoid paying for unnecessary features.
Connectivity and Mobile Features
Wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and cloud support improve convenience and flexibility. However, these features can sometimes introduce setup complexity or reliability issues. For offices with multiple users or remote employees, robust wireless options are essential. Be sure to verify compatibility with your existing network and devices, and consider user-friendliness to minimize frustration.
Total Cost of Ownership
Initial purchase price is just part of the equation. Toner cartridges, drum units, and maintenance supplies can significantly add to lifetime costs. Some models have high-yield toner options that reduce replacement frequency, offering better long-term value. It’s wise to compare estimated costs over 3-5 years to determine which printer provides the best balance of upfront and ongoing expenses.
Size, Space, and Paper Handling
Space constraints often influence the choice of printer size. Compact models fit smaller offices but may sacrifice speed or capacity. Paper handling features like multiple trays, automatic document feeders (ADFs), and duplex printing improve efficiency for larger workloads. Consider your typical volume and available space to select a model that offers the right balance of capacity and footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
Many office laser printers are compatible with third-party toner cartridges, which can reduce ongoing costs. However, using non-branded toner may affect print quality or void the manufacturer’s warranty. It’s important to verify compatibility and read reviews to ensure the third-party cartridges won’t cause issues like leaks or poor print quality. Weigh the savings against potential risks before making a switch.
How difficult is it to set up a new all-in-one laser printer in a busy office?
Most modern models aim for straightforward setup through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, often with guided instructions or apps. For busy offices, choosing a printer with user-friendly interfaces and clear connectivity options can minimize downtime. Expect some initial configuration and driver installation, but many devices support quick wireless setup. Having a dedicated IT resource or following manufacturer instructions carefully can streamline the process.
Are high-yield toner cartridges worth the extra initial cost?
High-yield toner cartridges typically cost more upfront but last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements. This can be a smart investment for offices with high print volumes, as it lowers per-page costs and reduces maintenance interruptions. However, if your printing volume is low, standard cartridges may be more economical. Calculate your monthly print needs to decide whether the higher-capacity options provide true savings.
Is duplex printing standard on most office laser printers?
Automatic duplex (double-sided) printing is common on many office laser models, especially higher-end ones. It saves paper and reduces costs over time, making it a valuable feature for environmentally conscious or budget-minded offices. Be sure to check whether duplex printing is automatic or manual, as the latter requires extra steps that can slow workflow.
What should I prioritize if I need a printer for a small home office?
For a small home office, compact size, low noise, and user-friendly operation matter most. Monochrome models often suffice if color isn’t essential, helping to keep costs down. Wireless connectivity and straightforward setup are also critical to avoid clutter and complexity. Consider a model with a smaller duty cycle and lower upfront cost, but ensure it can handle your typical workload reliably.
Conclusion
For small offices or budget-conscious buyers, the Brother MFC-L2820DW offers reliable performance at an accessible price point, making it the best overall pick. Teams requiring vibrant color output should consider the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw for its superior color quality, despite higher ongoing toner costs. Larger organizations or those with high-volume needs will benefit from the Brother MFC-L8930CDW for its speed and capacity. Beginners should look for models with straightforward setup, like the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw, while offices prioritizing efficiency and cost savings should focus on models with high-yield toner options and automatic duplexing. Your ideal choice will align with your specific volume, color, and budget requirements.
