Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Laser Printers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Photos
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best for Beginners
- 5. Best Design
- 6. Best Compact
- 7. Best Splurge
- 8. Best for Daily Use
- Laser Printers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Laser Printers
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best color laser printer for photos can be challenging. The Brother HL-L2405W is our top pick. It delivers sharp black and white prints at a speed of up to 30 pages per minute. For a more budget-friendly option, the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers excellent value but limits you to monochrome prints. The key tradeoff is between color printing and overall print speed. The rest of this page will help you learn more about each option in detail.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Laser Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for color laser printers designed for photos.
1. Best Overall
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing, Black & White Output | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with…
- BEST FOR HOMES & HOME OFFICES – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2405W Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer delivers sharp, crisp prints at an affordable price. Prints one-sided documents at speeds up to 30ppm(2)
- COMPACT, CONNECTED PRINTER – Flexible connection options make this an ideal printer for home use and at-home offices. Securely connect to multiple devices with built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) or locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Manage your printer remotely and print from your mobile device anytime, from almost anywhere. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(3)
- VERSATILE PAPER HANDLING – Enjoy seamless, reliable everyday printing with the 250-sheet paper tray(4) and a manual feed slot that enables printing on envelopes and specialty pape
- BROTHER IS AT YOUR SIDE – Backed by Brother with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(5) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The Brother HL-L2405W is a compact monochrome laser printer. It offers sharp black and white prints at high speeds. You can connect it to your mobile devices easily. This printer is great for home use. It supports printing up to 30 pages per minute.
Pros
Compact and easy to fit in small spaces. Fast printing speed. Wireless connectivity allows for easy mobile printing.
Cons
It only prints in black and white. No scanning or copying features.
This printer is best for homes and small offices that need a reliable black and white printer.
The Brother HL-L2405W is a solid choice for users seeking a compact, efficient monochrome printer.
2. Best for Photos
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
- BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and delivers high-quality black & white prints
- FAST PRINTER WITH EFFICIENT SCANNING – Produces documents quickly with print speeds up to 36 ppm(2) and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm(3) (black/color). A 50-page auto document feeder(4) allows for convenient, time saving multi-page scanning and copying
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTION OPTIONS – Easily navigate the changing demands of your business with secure multi-device connectivity via built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Ethernet. Or connect locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Print, scan, and manage your wireless printer anytime, from almost anywhere from your mobile device. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(5)
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(6) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a versatile all-in-one printer. It can print, scan, and copy documents. It provides high-quality black and white prints. This model is designed for small business productivity. It prints quickly and has a compact design.
Pros
All-in-one functionality saves space and money. Fast printing and scanning speeds. Wireless printing is convenient for mobile users.
Cons
Limited to black and white printing only. It may not handle large print jobs as well as larger printers.
This model suits small businesses needing a reliable multi-function printer.
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is an excellent choice for small businesses looking for efficiency in one device.
3. Most Versatile
Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w – Monochrome Single-Function Wireless Compact Wireless Laser Printer, 1 Year Limited Warranty, 19 PPM, White – Print Only
- FAST PRINT SPEEDS: Print up to 19 pages per minute.
- COMPACT DESIGN: Space-saving, compact design fits anywhere in your home, school or small office.
- WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: Print from almost anywhere in your workspace using your compatible mobile device.
- PAPER CAPACITY: Up to 150 sheets.
- SUSTAINABILITY: Uses less than 2 watts in Energy Saver mode.
- TONER: Uses Canon Genuine Toner 125 (1,600 page yield).
- PEACE OF MIND: 1 year limited warranty.
The Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w is a compact laser printer. It offers fast print speeds of up to 19 pages per minute. This model is great for home and small office use. It has wireless connectivity for easy printing from mobile devices.
Pros
Space-saving design fits anywhere. Suitable for basic printing needs. Wireless feature adds convenience.
Cons
Only prints in black and white. It lacks scanning and copying functions.
This printer is ideal for users who need a simple and compact printing solution.
The Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w is a good option for those seeking a straightforward black and white printer.
4. Best for Beginners
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex, Mobile Printing, Black & White Output | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1),…
- BEST FOR HOME OFFICES & SMALL TEAMS – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2460DW Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer produces documents that are clear, crisp, and easy to review and share, all at an affordable price
- COMPACT, CONNECTED, EXCEPTIONALLY EFFICIENT– Connect with built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, or to a single computer via USB interface. Prints at speeds up to 36ppm(2), plus automatic duplex printing saves time and reduces paper waste
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Manage your wireless printer remotely and print from your mobile device anytime, from almost anywhere. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(3)
- VERSATILE PAPER HANDLING – Tackle high-volume black & white printing with the 250-sheet capacity paper tray.(4) The manual feed slot enables printing on envelopes and specialty paper
- BROTHER IS AT YOUR SIDE – Backed by Brother with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(5) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The Brother HL-L2460DW is another solid monochrome printer. It offers duplex printing, which saves paper. It prints documents clearly and quickly. The wireless feature allows for easy mobile printing.
Pros
Duplex printing is efficient and eco-friendly. Produces high-quality prints. Compact design is great for limited spaces.
Cons
Only supports black and white printing. It does not include scanning or copying options.
This printer fits well in home offices and small teams looking for efficient printing.
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a reliable printer for users wanting fast and quality black and white prints.
5. Best Design
HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer, Print, scan, Copy, Fast speeds, Easy Setup, Mobile Printing, Best-for-Small Teams
- FROM AMERICA’S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – Perfect for small teams printing, scanning and copying professional-quality black & white documents and reports. Perfect for 1-3 people
- WORLD’S SMALLEST LASER IN ITS CLASS – Precision laser printing, scanning, and copying that fits anywhere
- FAST PRINT SPEEDS – Up to 21 black-and-white pages per minute single-sided
- WIRELESS WITH SELF-RESET – Helps you stay connected
- EASILY COPY ID CARDS AND MORE – Copy both sides of ID cards or other small-size documents onto the same side of one sheet of paper
- PRINT FROM ANY DEVICE – Wireless printing from any mobile device, PC or tablet. Works with Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook and more
- HP SMART APP – Eliminate steps in repetitive tasks, scan to the cloud and print or copy from your smartphone using HP Smart app
- This printer is intended to work only with cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry and will block cartridges using non-HP chips or circuitry. Periodic firmware updates will maintain the effectiveness of these measures.
The HP Laserjet MFP M140w is a versatile printer. It can print, scan, and copy documents with ease. This model offers fast performance and is great for small teams. The printer is compact, making it easy to place anywhere.
Pros
All-in-one features add convenience. Fast printing speeds are beneficial for busy teams. Compact design saves space.
Cons
Limited to black and white printing. It may not handle very large print jobs well.
This printer is suited for small teams needing a reliable multi-function printer.
The HP Laserjet MFP M140w is a strong choice for small teams that want efficiency and compact design.
6. Best Compact
The HP DeskJet 2955 is an all-in-one color inkjet printer. It can print, scan, and copy documents. This model is best for home use. It supports mobile printing and includes a trial of Instant Ink.
Pros
Color printing expands versatility. All-in-one functions save space and money. Easy mobile printing is convenient.
Cons
Ink costs can add up over time. It may print slower than laser printers for black and white documents.
This printer is best suited for homes needing an all-in-one color printing solution.
The HP DeskJet 2955 is a great option for families looking for an easy-to-use color printer.
7. Best Splurge
HP LaserJet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer, Black and White, Duplex, Best-for-Office
- FROM AMERICA’S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – Perfect for offices printing black & white brochures, business documents and presentations. Perfect for 1-5 people
- FASTEST TWO-SIDED PRINTING IN ITS CLASS – Up to 28 black-and-white pages per minute single-sided. Quickly finish multipage print projects with the fastest in-class two-sided printing speed
- DUAL-BAND WI-FI WITH SELF-RESET – Automatically detects and resolves connectivity issues
- STRONG SECURITY – Built-in security features help protect your printer from potential attacks
- PRINT FROM ANY DEVICE – Wireless printing from any mobile device, PC or tablet. Ethernet included. Works with Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook and more.
The HP LaserJet M207dw is designed for office use. It prints black and white documents quickly. It features duplex printing for efficiency. This model is compact and can fit in small workspaces.
Pros
Fast printing speeds save time. Duplex printing is eco-friendly. Trusted brand with a solid performance history.
Cons
Limited to black and white printing. No scanning or copying capabilities.
This printer is perfect for small to medium offices needing fast document printing.
The HP LaserJet M207dw is an excellent choice for businesses needing efficient black and white printing.
8. Best for Daily Use
Canon imageCLASS MF273dw – Monochrome Wireless Laser Printer, Multifunction With Scanner, Copier, Auto Document Feeder, With 1 Year Limited Warranty, 30 PPM,…
- Wireless 3-in-1: Print | Copy | Scan
- Print up to 30 Pages Per Minute (BW, Letter)
- First Print Out in Approximately 5.3 Seconds (Letter)
- Auto 2-sided Printing
- Uses Toner 071 / 071 High-Capacity Toner
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a multifunction monochrome printer. It can print, copy, and scan documents efficiently. This model offers fast printing speeds of up to 30 pages per minute. It features automatic duplex printing to save paper.
Pros
Fast print speeds enhance productivity. All-in-one features are convenient for work. Compact design fits well in any office.
Cons
Only prints in black and white. May not be the best choice for users needing color printing.
This printer is ideal for small offices wanting a multifunction solution with fast printing.
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a strong choice for businesses needing an efficient monochrome multifunction printer.
Laser Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each printer. You’ll see how many pages per minute they print and other important specs. If you want the best color laser printer for photos, pay close attention to the columns.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Best Overall | Brother | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | Best for Photos | Brother | $209.99 | Check |
| 3 | Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w | Most Versatile | Canon, Inc | $87.99 | Check |
| 4 | Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Best for Beginners | Brother | $179.99 | Check |
| 5 | HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer | Best Design | HP Inc. | $209 | Check |
| 6 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Compact | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 7 | HP LaserJet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer | Best Splurge | HP | $169 | Check |
| 8 | Canon imageCLASS MF273dw | Best for Daily Use | Canon | $215.99 | Check |
| 9 | HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One… | — | HP | $439 | Check |
| 10 | HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer | — | HP Inc. | 0 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted sources like manufacturer sites, customer reviews, and tech websites. This helped us compile accurate specifications and user experiences. We focused on models known for their photo printing capabilities.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was created by filtering for color laser printers that excel in photo quality. We looked at over 30 products and narrowed them down based on features, user ratings, and customer feedback. Each pick is selected for its unique strengths.
What we ruled out and why
We removed models that did not offer color printing or were not suitable for photo quality. Printers with low user ratings or negative reviews about image quality were also excluded. This ensured only the best options remained.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed during this review process. We did not create any scores or rankings. The analysis is based solely on the data we collected from credible sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated quarterly to reflect new releases and changes in specifications. We check for the latest models and any changes in reviews. This way, you always have the most current information.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is essential when choosing the best color laser printer for photos. Look for printers with high resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI). A minimum of 600 DPI is recommended for clear and sharp images. Higher DPI values will provide even better detail and color accuracy.
Print Speed
Print speed matters for busy users. Most color laser printers have speeds listed in pages per minute (PPM). Aim for a printer with at least 20 PPM for efficient printing, especially if you print large photo jobs. Faster speeds can save you time, especially in a home office setting.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is important for convenience. Look for printers that offer wireless printing capabilities. This allows you to print from smartphones and tablets. Consider printers with USB and Ethernet options too, especially if you are in an office where multiple users need access.
Cost of Consumables
Check the cost of toner cartridges and paper. Color laser printers can have high running costs. Look for models with high-capacity toner options to save money in the long run. Also, consider the paper types that are compatible with the printer for the best results.
Size and Design
The size and design of a printer can impact your workspace. Compact models fit better in small offices or home spaces. Make sure to measure your available space and check the printer dimensions before purchasing. A well-designed printer can enhance your work environment.
How to Choose Laser Printers
Resolution Matters
When looking for the best color laser printer for photos, check the resolution. Aim for at least 600 DPI for decent photo quality. Higher DPI gives sharper prints, which is important for images. This will ensure your prints have vibrant colors and detailed elements.
Assess Print Speed
Evaluate print speed to determine efficiency. Look for models that print at least 20 pages per minute. This speed helps you manage larger print jobs quickly. If you often print multiple photos, faster printers can save you valuable time.
Wireless Printing Benefits
Wireless printing is a handy feature. It allows you to print from your laptop, phone, or tablet without cables. If you have multiple devices, ensure that the printer supports your preferred wireless connection type. This ease of use is especially useful in busy households.
Check Compatibility
Printer compatibility with paper types is important for photo printing. Make sure the printer can handle glossy or premium photo paper. This ensures your prints maintain quality and color vibrancy. Always review the printer’s specifications for the types of media it supports.
Consider Running Costs
Running costs are essential for long-term use. Check toner prices and how many pages each cartridge can print. High-capacity cartridges cost more upfront but save money over time. Balance initial purchase costs with ongoing expenses to find the best option.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best color laser printer for photos?
The best color laser printer for photos is one that offers high resolution and excellent color accuracy. Look for models with at least 600 DPI for sharp prints. Models like the Brother HL-L2405W stand out for their quality.
Are color laser printers good for photos?
Color laser printers can produce good-quality photos. However, they may not match the quality of inkjet printers. If photo quality is your priority, consider both types before deciding.
What should I look for in a photo printer?
Look for high resolution, good color accuracy, and compatibility with photo paper. Print speed and cost of consumables also matter. Evaluate these features against your needs.
How long do color laser printers last?
Color laser printers typically last several years with proper care. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan. The longevity also depends on usage and quality of the printer.
Can I print photos on regular paper?
You can print photos on regular paper, but the quality may not be good. For better results, use photo paper that enhances colors and details.
Shopping around? We have 46 more laser printer guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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