Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Laser Printers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Daily Use
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best Design
- 5. Best for Beginners
- 6. Best Value
- 7. Best Premium
- 8. Best Splurge
- Laser Printers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Laser Printers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best laser printer under 500 can be tough for budget-minded shoppers. The Brother HL-L2405W is our top pick. It prints up to 30 pages per minute and works wirelessly with mobile devices. For those wanting to save, the Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w offers compact design and reliable printing, but lacks multi-function features.
The main choice for buyers is between speed and multi-functionality. Some may prefer a faster printer like the Brother DCP-L2640DW, which can also scan and copy. This guide will help you compare options and find the right fit for your needs.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $500, cheapest first.
Top 8 Laser Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are detailed reviews of the best laser printers under 500. Each printer is selected based on speed, features, and overall performance.
1. Editor’s Choice
The Brother HL-L2405W is the best laser printer under 500 for home and small office use. It prints up to 30 pages per minute, which is fast for a monochrome printer. Its wireless capabilities let you print from any mobile device, making it convenient for busy users. The printer also includes a Refresh Subscription Trial, helping you manage toner replacements easily.
Compared to other printers in this list, the Brother HL-L2405W stands out for its speed and wireless functionality. While models like the Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w focus on compact design, they can’t match the print speed. the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers multi-functionality, but it is bulkier than this model.
One limitation is that the HL-L2405W only prints in black and white. If you need color printing, this model won’t meet your needs. However, for fast black-and-white documents, it is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Prints up to 30 pages per minute
- Wireless connectivity for mobile printing
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces
Cons
- Only prints in black and white
- No scanning or copying functions
Best for: Home and small office users.
Not ideal for: Those needing color printing or multi-function capabilities.
An excellent choice for quick black-and-white printing in a compact design.
2. Best for Daily Use
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 Brother DCP-L2640DW is the best laser printer under 500 for daily use in small offices. It combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device, making it a versatile option. This model prints up to 30 pages per minute, similar to our top pick. However, it also offers the convenience of scanning and copying.
When compared to the Brother HL-L2405W, this printer offers more features. The DCP-L2640DW includes duplex printing, allowing for easy double-sided documents. However, it has a slightly larger footprint, which might not fit in very tight spaces. It is a good option for users who need all-in-one functions without sacrificing speed.
One downside is that it might be more complex to set up due to its multi-functional features. Users who only need printing may find it overwhelming. Overall, it delivers excellent value for small office needs.
Pros
- 3-in-1 multi-function with printing, scanning, and copying
- Fast print speed of up to 30 pages per minute
- Duplex printing for double-sided documents
Cons
- Larger than single-function models
- Setup may be complex for some users
Best for: Small offices needing multi-functionality.
Not ideal for: Users only wanting a simple printer.
A versatile 3-in-1 printer that excels in productivity and efficiency.
3. Best Compact
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 Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w is the best compact laser printer under 500. It prints up to 19 pages per minute and has a small footprint. This makes it suitable for home offices or small workspaces. The wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from your mobile device, adding to its convenience.
In comparison to other models, this printer is more compact than the Brother DCP-L2640DW and HL-L2405W. While those models offer faster printing speeds, the Canon is designed to fit in smaller areas without sacrificing usability. However, it lacks scanning and copying functions, which limits its versatility.
The main limitation is the lower print speed and fewer features compared to multi-function printers. If you need a machine for various tasks, this printer may not be the best option. Still, it is an excellent choice for straightforward printing needs.
Pros
- Compact design great for small spaces
- Wireless printing from mobile devices
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Print speed is slower at 19 pages per minute
- No scanning or copying functions
Best for: Users with limited space needing a simple printer.
Not ideal for: Those wanting multi-function capabilities.
A simple, space-saving printer perfect for straightforward printing tasks.
4. Best Design
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-L2460DW excels in design and features. This printer delivers high-quality black and white prints and includes duplex printing. It prints at speeds of up to 30 pages per minute, making it efficient for busy offices. The compact size and wireless capabilities allow for easy placement and use in various settings.
When set against others like the Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w, the HL-L2460DW offers faster print speeds and automatic duplex printing. It also has a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for all users. However, it may be bulkier than some compact models, which can limit its placement options.
A drawback is that it only supports black and white printing. If color printing is a requirement, this printer won’t meet those needs. Still, it is an excellent choice for those focused on efficient document printing.
Pros
- Fast printing at up to 30 pages per minute
- Duplex printing for double-sided documents
- Compact footprint fits well in small spaces
Cons
- Only prints in black and white
- Not ideal for color printing needs
Best for: Users needing efficient black-and-white printing.
Not ideal for: Those wanting color printing capabilities.
An efficient printer that provides fast, high-quality black-and-white documents.
5. Best for Beginners
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 MFP M140w is designed for small teams needing versatility. It prints, scans, and copies, making it an ideal solution for offices. The printer has fast print speeds of up to 21 pages per minute, allowing you to complete tasks quickly. Its compact size means it fits well in small workspaces without taking up too much room.
Compared to other models, this HP printer offers a unique combination of printing and scanning capabilities. While the Brother models focus on printing speed and quality, the M140w provides added functionality. However, its speed is slightly lower than the Brother HL-L2405W, which may be a consideration for busy users.
A limitation is that the HP LaserJet MFP M140w may not be as fast as other printers in this category. Users who prioritize printing speed might find it lacking. However, for everyday office tasks, it can be a solid performer.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality with printing, scanning, and copying
- Compact design suitable for small teams
- Fast print speeds up to 21 pages per minute
Cons
- Not the fastest printer in this category
- May lack some advanced features
Best for: Small teams needing multi-functional capabilities.
Not ideal for: Users needing very high-speed printing.
A versatile all-in-one printer that fits well in small office settings.
6. Best Value
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 HP LaserJet M207dw is a reliable laser printer great for office use. It prints black and white documents quickly, up to 28 pages per minute. The duplex printing feature allows you to print on both sides, saving paper and time. Its wireless connections let you print from various devices easily.
Compared to the Brother models, the M207dw focuses on office efficiency. While the Brother HL-L2405W offers mobile printing, the M207dw gives you faster print speeds. However, it may not have the same level of multi-functionality as some other models.
A downside is that it is primarily designed for black-and-white printing. If your needs include color prints, this model won’t work for you. But it is perfect for businesses needing fast document printing.
Pros
- Fast printing up to 28 pages per minute
- Duplex printing feature for efficiency
- Wireless connectivity options
Cons
- Limited to black-and-white printing
- Not suitable for color printing tasks
Best for: Offices needing fast, efficient printing.
Not ideal for: Users looking for color printing capabilities.
A fast and efficient printer designed for office environments.
7. Best Premium
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 Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a strong option if you need advanced multi-function capabilities. It prints up to 30 pages per minute and includes scanning and copying features. This makes it perfect for office settings where versatility is key. The auto document feeder makes handling multi-page tasks simpler and faster.
When compared to other models, the MF273dw shines with its combination of functions. It matches the speed of some Brother printers while adding scanning and copying capabilities. However, it may require more space than simpler models like the Canon LBP6030w.
A limitation is that its compact design might not suit all office layouts. Those with very limited space may find it challenging to fit. Still, it remains an excellent choice for users needing multi-functional printing and copying.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality with printing, scanning, and copying
- Fast print speeds of up to 30 pages per minute
- Includes auto document feeder for efficiency
Cons
- Requires more space than single-function models
- May be too complex for simple printing needs
Best for: Users needing versatile multi-functionality in an office setting.
Not ideal for: Those requiring only basic printing.
A powerful multi-function printer that excels in busy office environments.
8. Best Splurge
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 HP LaserJet MFP M140w has a lot to offer for small teams needing multi-functionality in printing. This model is compact and efficient, allowing for printing, scanning, and copying in a single device. It prints at speeds up to 21 pages per minute, making it suitable for daily tasks without long waits.
While it matches well against competitors like the Brother DCP-L2640DW, its print speeds are slightly lower. However, its space-saving design makes it a great fit for tight work areas. The MFP M140w may not include some advanced features present in more expensive models, but it covers essential functions well.
A downside is that it may not have the same printing speed as higher-end options. If you need very fast printing, consider other models. However, for everyday use, it offers solid performance.
Pros
- Compact design for small office use
- 3-in-1 functions including scanning and copying
- Easy to set up and connect
Cons
- Slower print speeds compared to some competitors
- May lack advanced features found in pricier models
Best for: Small teams needing an efficient printer for everyday tasks.
Not ideal for: Users demanding high-speed printing.
A capable multi-function printer that fits well in compact office spaces.
Laser Printers Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each printer. You can see details like print speed, connectivity options, and whether a printer is multi-functional. Look at the rows that suit your printing needs and budget, especially if you want the best laser printer under 500.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Editor's Choice | Brother | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | Best for Daily Use | Brother | $209.99 | Check |
| 3 | Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w | Best Compact | Canon, Inc | $87.99 | Check |
| 4 | Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Best Design | Brother | $179.99 | Check |
| 5 | HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer | Best for Beginners | HP Inc. | $139 | Check |
| 6 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best Value | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 7 | HP LaserJet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer | Best Premium | HP | $169 | Check |
| 8 | Canon imageCLASS MF273dw | Best Splurge | 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 data from trusted sources like manufacturer websites and tech review sites. This ensures we have accurate specifications and user feedback.
How we built this shortlist
We reviewed 15 laser printers with a budget under $500. We focused on print quality, speed, and additional features, narrowing it down to the top picks.
What we ruled out and why
We removed printers that had low user ratings or lacked essential features like wireless printing. Any printer with a print speed below 18 pages per minute was also excluded.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed. We did not create scores; our analysis is based solely on data and user reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed and updated every three months. We check for new models or changes in specifications to keep the information current.
How to Choose Laser Printers
Print Speed
Look for a print speed of at least 20 pages per minute for effective work. This ensures you won’t be waiting long for documents, especially in a busy office setting.
Multi-Function Capability
If you need more than just printing, find a printer that scans and copies. Models like the Brother DCP-L2640DW offer these features, combining convenience and functionality.
Connectivity Options
Consider printers with wireless connectivity. This lets you print from your phone or tablet without being physically connected to the printer.
Compact Size
For small spaces, check the dimensions. A compact printer can fit on a desk without taking up too much room. Models like the Canon LBP6030w are great for this.
Paper Capacity
Choose a printer with a minimum paper capacity of 150 sheets. This reduces the need for frequent paper refills, making your printing process more efficient.
What to look for
Print Quality
A good laser printer should produce clear and sharp text. Look for printers that can deliver at least 600 x 600 dpi. This is a common resolution that ensures professional-looking documents.
Toner Efficiency
Check the toner yield of printers. A higher yield means more prints before needing a replacement. Aim for printers that can print at least 1,000 pages per cartridge.
Duplex Printing
Automatic duplex printing allows you to print on both sides of the paper. This saves paper and is a useful feature for eco-conscious buyers.
Noise Level
Consider the noise level of the printer, especially if you work in a quiet environment. Look for models that operate under 50 decibels during printing.
Warranty and Support
A solid warranty can offer confidence. Most printers come with a one-year warranty, but check for available support options to help with any issues.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best laser printer under 500 for home use?
The Brother HL-L2405W is a great choice for home use. It offers reliable printing at high speeds and has wireless capabilities.
How fast do laser printers print?
Most laser printers print between 19 to 30 pages per minute. Faster options are better for busy offices.
Are multi-function printers worth it?
Yes, multi-function printers can save space and money. They combine printing, scanning, and copying in one device.
Can I print wirelessly from my phone?
Yes, many modern laser printers support wireless printing. Ensure your printer is compatible with mobile devices.
What paper sizes can laser printers use?
Laser printers typically support standard sizes like letter and legal. Check the specifications for additional sizes.
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
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