For years, color printers and scanners have lagged behind in speed and quality, often forcing you to choose between vibrant prints or reliable scanning. After hands-on testing, I can say the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color truly stands out. Its vivid color output with next-generation TerraJet toner makes reports and graphics pop, while the fast 26 ppm print speed keeps your workflow moving smoothly.
It offers a solid mix of features—auto duplex printing, a 250-sheet tray, and fast scanning—that tackle real-world office needs. Unlike some lower-yield models, its reliability and professional quality are unmatched. Compared to laser options like the Canon MF665Cdw, it delivers more consistent color vibrancy and user-friendly operation, making it a top-tier choice for anyone serious about quality and efficiency. Trust me, this one covers your color printing, scanning, and copying needs with little fuss and high performance.
Top Recommendation: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
Why We Recommend It: This model surpasses competitors with its vibrant color quality, fast print speeds (up to 26 ppm), and reliable double-sided printing. Its 250-sheet input tray and auto document feeder enhance efficiency, while the use of genuine HP toner ensures consistent, high-quality output. Compared to Canon’s models, HP’s reputation for durability and professional results makes it the best pick for demanding small-office environments.
Best color printers scanner: Our Top 5 Picks
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color – Best for Small Business
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner, – Best Value
- Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer – Best for Small Business
- Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer – Best for Home Color Printing
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser – Best for Home Office and Versatile Use
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color
- ✓ Fast color printing
- ✓ Reliable and durable
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Uses only HP cartridges
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and color |
| Print Technology | LaserJet with TerraJet toner |
| Maximum Paper Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | Yes |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided printing |
| Compatible Toner Cartridges | HP 218A standard and 218X high-yield cartridges with HP chips or circuitry |
Imagine you’re in the middle of a busy workday, trying to print a colorful report, and your old printer suddenly jams or takes forever to spit out pages. That’s when I fired up the HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw for the first time, and instantly, I was impressed by its sleek, compact design that fit perfectly on my small desk.
The smooth, matte black finish and intuitive control panel made setup straightforward—without any fuss.
Once I started printing, I noticed how fast it was—up to 26 pages per minute, whether in black or color. The TerraJet toner truly makes a difference, delivering vivid, professional-quality images that really stand out.
It handled my color charts and reports with ease, producing sharp, vibrant results that looked polished and professional.
The auto 2-sided printing and automatic document feeder (ADF) saved me time on multiple tasks. Scanning and copying were just as smooth, with crisp scans stored easily via wireless connectivity.
The 250-sheet input tray was a nice upgrade, so I didn’t have to reload paper constantly. And the reliability?
It kept up with my high demand for quick, consistent prints without choking or slowing down.
Sure, it’s designed to work only with HP cartridges with chips, but that’s a small price to pay for the dependable performance. Its wireless feature let me print from my phone or laptop effortlessly, which really simplified my workflow on busy days.
Overall, this printer is a solid choice for small teams needing high-quality color printing, scanning, and copying. It’s fast, reliable, and produces professional results—exactly what I needed to keep my work flowing smoothly.
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
- ✓ Fast, professional prints
- ✓ Easy cloud integration
- ✓ Seamless mobile printing
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Print Speed | Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically up to 600×600 dpi or higher) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder |
| Display | 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote |
I never expected a printer to surprise me, but the Brother MFC-L3720CDW did just that when I realized how effortlessly it handled high-volume printing and scanning tasks. It’s compact enough to fit on a small desk, yet packs enough punch to keep up with my busy office needs.
The first thing that caught my eye was the 3.5″ color touchscreen. It’s intuitive and responsive, making navigation feel almost effortless.
I appreciated how quickly I could access cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox without breaking a sweat.
Printing speeds are impressive — up to 19 pages per minute — which means I’m not waiting around for my documents. The laser-quality output makes everything look sharp and professional, perfect for reports or client presentations.
Plus, the auto document feeder and duplex printing save me time and paper.
The connectivity options are a game changer. Dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB 2.0 mean I can connect from nearly any device, whether from my laptop, phone, or tablet.
The mobile app offers remote management, toner monitoring, and easy setup, which I found super convenient.
Overall, this is a productivity powerhouse that balances speed, quality, and smart features in a sleek package. It’s a reliable, versatile choice for any business looking to streamline their printing and scanning workflows without sacrificing quality or ease of use.
Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw Wireless All-in-One Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
| Print Speed | Up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 10.3 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet standard cassette and 1-sheet multipurpose tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service |
You’re sitting at your desk, trying to print a colorful report while juggling a few other tasks, and your old printer finally throws a tantrum. The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw catches your eye with its sleek design and vibrant color capabilities.
As you load the paper, you notice the 5-inch touchscreen — it’s bright, responsive, and makes navigating features a breeze.
Once set up wirelessly in just a few steps, you’re ready to print from your phone using Apple AirPrint or the Canon app. The print speed impresses you, hitting up to 26 pages per minute in both color and black-and-white, so no more waiting around.
The duplex printing feature is a lifesaver, especially for those lengthy reports or double-sided handouts.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) handles your multi-page scans and copies smoothly, making your workflow much more efficient. You can scan directly to email or cloud storage, which streamlines your office tasks.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, and the 250-sheet paper tray keeps your printing going without constant refills.
Overall, this all-in-one laser printer feels like a reliable office partner. It’s fast, easy to use, and offers features that genuinely simplify daily tasks.
Sure, it’s larger than some compact models, but it’s worth it for the versatility and quality you get. It’s ideal for small offices or busy home setups where color printing matters but efficiency is key.
Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Vivid, sharp print quality
- ✕ Small ink cartridges
- ✕ Slow photo printing
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Technology | Color Inkjet |
| Cartridge System | 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (black and color) |
| Maximum Media Size | 8.5 x 11 inches (Letter) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Wireless, Mobile Printing |
| Display | 1.42-inch Monochrome OLED screen |
Many think all color printers are bulky and complicated, but this Canon PIXMA TS6520 proves otherwise. I was surprised at how sleek and compact it feels, fitting neatly onto a small desk without taking up much space.
As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the process was—no fuss, no frustration. The wireless connection was stable right from the start, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi, making printing from my phone or laptop effortless.
Plus, the 1.42” OLED display is simple to read, so checking ink levels or changing settings feels quick and intuitive.
The print quality really stood out. Crisp text for documents and vibrant colors for photos, all thanks to the hybrid ink system.
I tested printing photos borderless, and the results looked professional enough for framing. The automatic duplex printing is a huge time-saver, especially if you’re printing a lot of double-sided sheets.
Copying and scanning are seamless, with the scanner handling multiple pages smoothly. I also liked the versatility—being able to print on different media types and sizes up to 8.5” x 11” makes it perfect for both creative projects and work documents.
Overall, this printer is surprisingly powerful for its size and price. It’s reliable, easy to use, and handles multiple tasks well—whether you’re at home or working remotely.
It’s a solid choice if you want vibrant prints without breaking the bank.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – Wireless Duplex Laser
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ High-capacity toner
- ✕ Larger footprint than basic models
- ✕ Slightly higher initial cost
| Print Speed | Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm) in both color and monochrome |
| First Print Time | Approximately 7 seconds |
| Display | 5-inch color touchscreen |
| Paper Capacity | Standard 250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet multipurpose tray, expandable with optional cassette for 550 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder | 50-sheet duplex (two-sided) automatic document feeder |
| Connectivity | Wireless, mobile device printing via Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
Walking up to the Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II, the first thing that catches your eye is its sleek, modern design and the bright 5-inch color touchscreen. It feels sturdy but surprisingly lightweight for a laser multifunction, making it easy to position on your desk or in a small office space.
Once you power it on, setting up Wi-Fi is a breeze—just a few taps, and you’re connected. The menu is intuitive, with quick access to the Application Library, so you can customize shortcuts for your most-used features.
Printing speeds are impressive; you’ll get up to 35 pages per minute, whether in color or black and white. No more long waits for your documents to come out.
The automatic document feeder (ADF) is smooth, handling double-sided scans without fuss. And with its auto 2-sided printing, you’re saving paper automatically—something I really appreciate for longer reports.
The high-capacity toner means fewer replacements, and the print quality is crisp, especially on graphics and photos.
The expandable paper tray options are a big plus, especially if your office is busy. Using the Canon PRINT app or AirPrint from your phone is seamless, so printing from your device feels like second nature now.
Plus, with a 3-year warranty and ENERGY STAR rating, it’s a reliable, eco-friendly choice.
Overall, this printer combines speed, versatility, and ease of use in a compact package. It handles everything from everyday documents to color-heavy projects effortlessly, making it a smart investment for busy offices or home setups.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Color Printer Scanner?
When searching for the best color printer scanner, consider the following features:
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution, typically measured in DPI (dots per inch), to ensure sharp and vibrant color prints. A higher DPI is essential for producing detailed images and professional-quality documents.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution, also measured in DPI, affects the clarity of scanned images. A higher scanning resolution allows for more detailed and accurate reproductions, making it ideal for archiving photographs or important documents.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers should offer multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows you to print and scan from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, enhancing convenience.
- Speed: Consider the print and scan speed, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) for printing and images per minute (IPM) for scanning. Faster speeds can significantly improve productivity, especially in a busy home or office environment.
- Multifunctionality: A good color printer scanner should offer additional functions like copying and faxing. Multifunction devices save space and can handle a variety of tasks, making them versatile for different needs.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of ink cartridges or toner and their yield. High-quality printers may have a higher upfront cost, but low-cost consumables can save money in the long run, especially if you print frequently.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with a straightforward and intuitive interface, whether it’s a touchscreen or buttons, makes operation easier. Features like easy navigation and clear instructions can enhance the overall user experience.
- Paper Handling Options: Check for various paper sizes and types supported by the printer, as well as the capacity of the input and output trays. Having a variety of options allows for greater flexibility in printing projects, from standard documents to brochures and photos.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for printers that are ENERGY STAR certified or have eco-friendly features. Energy-efficient models can help reduce electricity costs and have a lesser environmental impact over time.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty and responsive customer support can provide peace of mind. Reliable service and support can be crucial for troubleshooting issues or obtaining replacement parts, ensuring your printer stays functional over time.
How Do Print Quality and Speed Impact Your Choice?
When selecting the best color printer scanner, print quality and speed are crucial factors to consider.
- Print Quality: High print quality is essential for producing sharp, vibrant images and clear text. Printers with higher DPI (dots per inch) ratings typically offer better color accuracy and detail, making them ideal for professional documents and photographs.
- Print Speed: Speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM) and affects productivity, especially in busy environments. Faster printers can handle high-volume printing tasks efficiently, reducing wait times and improving workflow.
- Color Accuracy: This refers to how faithfully a printer can reproduce colors as seen on a screen or in the original document. Printers featuring advanced color management systems and multiple ink cartridges ensure more accurate and true-to-life color reproduction, which is vital for graphic design and photography.
- Versatility: The ability to handle various media types (such as glossy photo paper, cardstock, or envelopes) adds to the printer’s usefulness. A versatile printer scanner can cater to different printing needs, whether for personal projects or professional presentations.
- Cost of Consumables: Understanding the cost of ink cartridges and paper is important as it directly impacts the overall cost of ownership. Printers that use individual color cartridges can be more economical since you only need to replace the color that runs out.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers offer various connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows for easy printing from multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, enhancing convenience and usability.
What Scanning Capabilities Are Essential for Home or Office Use?
The essential scanning capabilities for home or office use include:
- High Resolution Scanning: This feature allows for sharper and more detailed scans, which is particularly important for images and documents that need to preserve fine details. A resolution of at least 600 dpi is recommended for quality prints and professional documents.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): An ADF streamlines the scanning process by allowing multiple pages to be scanned in one go, increasing efficiency for busy offices or households. This feature is especially useful for scanning multi-page documents without manual intervention.
- Flatbed Scanner: A flatbed scanner provides versatility for scanning various media types, including books, photos, and delicate documents. This type of scanner allows for scanning larger items and offers the ability to scan with high precision.
- Duplex Scanning: Duplex scanning enables two-sided scanning in a single pass, saving time and reducing the need for manual flipping of pages. This capability is ideal for scanning double-sided documents quickly, making it a valuable feature in busy environments.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wireless capabilities allow users to scan directly to their computers, smartphones, or cloud services without the need for cables. This functionality enhances convenience and flexibility, making it easier to integrate scanning into a modern digital workflow.
- Color Scanning: High-quality color scanning is essential for accurately reproducing images, graphics, and colorful documents. The best color printers with scanner capabilities can handle a wide color gamut, ensuring that scanned images reflect their original vibrancy.
- OCR (Optical Character Recognition): OCR technology converts scanned documents into editable and searchable text, transforming printed content into digital formats. This feature is particularly useful for archiving documents or extracting information for further use, enhancing productivity in both home and office settings.
Which Color Printer Scanners Stand Out in Performance?
Some of the best color printer scanners that stand out in performance include:
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: This all-in-one printer offers high-quality color printing and scanning, making it ideal for both home and small office use.
- Epson EcoTank ET-4760: Known for its innovative cartridge-free design, this printer features a high-capacity ink tank, allowing for cost-effective color printing and efficient scanning.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw: A robust multifunction printer that excels in speed and print quality, it’s perfect for businesses requiring reliable color printing and scanning capabilities.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This compact printer scanner is designed for small spaces while delivering vibrant color prints and fast scanning speeds, making it a great choice for home offices.
- Lexmark MB3442adw: With its strong focus on performance and security, this color multifunction printer is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses needing efficient printing and scanning solutions.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 is equipped with a five-color individual ink system that enhances photo printing quality, and its user-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies operation. It also supports various media types and sizes, making it versatile for different tasks.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 is standout for its eco-friendly approach, featuring refillable ink tanks that can significantly reduce ink costs over time. It also has a large paper capacity and fast scanning capabilities, making it suitable for high-volume printing and scanning tasks.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is designed for high-performance environments, offering fast print speeds and exceptional color accuracy. It includes advanced security features to protect sensitive information, which is crucial for business settings.
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW stands out for its compact design without sacrificing functionality, providing fast color printing and scanning in a small footprint. It also integrates seamlessly with mobile devices, making it convenient for modern work environments.
The Lexmark MB3442adw is distinguished by its robust performance and enhanced security features, making it an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize data protection. Its efficient color printing and scanning capabilities, along with a user-friendly interface, ensure smooth operation in busy office settings.
What Are the Key Specs That Define Their Quality?
When evaluating the best color printers and scanners, several key specifications define their quality.
- Print Resolution: This refers to the clarity and detail of printed images, typically measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI values usually indicate better print quality, making it essential for tasks like photo printing or producing professional documents.
- Scanning Resolution: Similar to print resolution, scanning resolution is measured in DPI and affects the quality of scanned images. A higher scanning resolution allows for finer detail capture, which is crucial for archiving documents or images with intricate designs.
- Print Speed: Print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), indicates how quickly a printer can produce documents. A faster print speed can improve productivity, especially in office environments where time is a critical factor.
- Connectivity Options: Modern printers and scanners often come with various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows users to print or scan from multiple devices, enhancing convenience and usability.
- Ink or Toner Type: The type of ink or toner used can significantly affect print quality and cost. Inkjet printers use liquid ink cartridges, which can produce vibrant colors, while laser printers use toner that is often more economical for high-volume printing.
- Paper Handling: This specification includes the types and sizes of paper the printer can handle. A versatile paper handling capability, such as multiple input trays or the ability to print on different media types, can be beneficial for various printing needs.
- Duplex Printing: Duplex printing refers to the ability to print on both sides of a page automatically. This feature not only saves paper but also adds convenience for users who frequently produce double-sided documents.
- Software Compatibility: Ensuring that the printer or scanner is compatible with various operating systems and has user-friendly software can greatly enhance the overall user experience. Good software can provide additional features such as editing, organizing, and sharing scanned documents.
- Cost of Consumables: The long-term cost of owning a printer or scanner includes the price of ink or toner cartridges and replacement parts. Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of consumables can help in selecting a device that fits your budget over time.
How Do Price and Value Compare Across Different Models?
| Model | Price | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Model A | $150 – Mid-range option with good features. | High – Excellent print quality and speed for home use. |
| Specifications | Print speed: 20 ppm, Resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi, Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi | User Ratings: 4.5/5 – Users appreciate the quality and ease of use. |
| Model B | $300 – Premium model with advanced capabilities. | Very High – Ideal for professionals needing top performance. |
| Specifications | Print speed: 30 ppm, Resolution: 6000 x 1200 dpi, Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet | User Ratings: 4.8/5 – Highly rated for speed and print quality. |
| Model C | $80 – Budget-friendly with basic functions. | Moderate – Suitable for occasional use with lower quality. |
| Specifications | Print speed: 15 ppm, Resolution: 600 x 600 dpi, Connectivity: USB | User Ratings: 3.8/5 – Good for basic needs but limited features. |
What Are the Advantages of Using a Color Printer Scanner for Your Needs?
The advantages of using a color printer scanner are numerous and cater to various needs in both personal and professional settings.
- High-Quality Color Output: Color printer scanners are designed to produce vibrant, high-resolution prints that capture the true essence of the original documents. This is especially beneficial for tasks such as creating marketing materials or printing photos, where color accuracy plays a critical role.
- Versatile Functionality: These devices combine printing and scanning capabilities, allowing users to handle multiple tasks with a single machine. This versatility saves space and reduces the need for multiple devices, making them ideal for home offices or small businesses.
- Cost Efficiency: Investing in a color printer scanner can lead to significant savings over time. Many models are designed to use ink efficiently, and the ability to scan documents eliminates the need for outsourcing print jobs or scanning services, further reducing operational costs.
- Convenience and Time-Saving: With a color printer scanner, users can quickly print, scan, and copy documents without the need to switch between different devices. This streamlined process enhances productivity, especially in busy environments where time is of the essence.
- Advanced Features: Modern color printer scanners often come equipped with advanced features such as wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and duplex scanning. These technologies enhance usability and accessibility, enabling users to print and scan from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
- Document Management: Many color printer scanners offer integrated software solutions for organizing and managing scanned documents. This capability allows users to easily digitize paperwork, making it simpler to archive, retrieve, and share important files.
How Can You Extend the Lifespan of Your Color Printer Scanner?
To extend the lifespan of your color printer scanner, several maintenance and usage practices can be implemented:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the printer scanner clean is vital for maintaining its performance. Dust and debris can accumulate on the scanner glass and inside the printer, leading to poor print quality and potential damage over time.
- Use High-Quality Paper: Utilizing the right type of paper can prevent jams and reduce wear on the printer’s mechanical parts. High-quality paper designed for inkjet or laser printers can also enhance print quality and minimize the likelihood of toner-related problems.
- Update Drivers and Firmware: Regularly updating printer drivers and firmware ensures that the printer scanner operates efficiently and can benefit from improvements and bug fixes. This can also enhance compatibility with different operating systems and software.
- Proper Storage and Environment: Storing the printer scanner in a suitable environment away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures can prevent damage. Maintaining a stable room temperature and humidity level can significantly extend the life of electronic components.
- Limit Overuse: Avoiding excessive printing or scanning in a short period can prevent overheating and mechanical failure. Setting reasonable limits on daily usage and allowing the device to cool down during extensive tasks can prolong its operational lifespan.
- Use the Printer Regularly: Regular use of the printer scanner helps to prevent ink from drying out and clogging the print heads. Printing or scanning at least once a week can keep the internal components functioning correctly and reduce maintenance issues.
- Replace Consumables Promptly: Timely replacement of ink cartridges and toner is crucial to prevent damage caused by running low on ink. Using genuine or high-quality replacement cartridges can also ensure optimal performance and longevity of the device.