Contents
You may wonder, is laser printer worth it? The Brother HL-L2405W is our top pick due to its fast print speed of 30 pages per minute and wireless connectivity. If you want to save money, the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers printing, scanning, and copying at a lower cost, but it lacks the same print speed. Most buyers face a choice between speed and functionality. This page helps you explore options based on your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Laser Printers Reviewed in Detail
Here are some top laser printers to consider. We highlight their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
1. Top Pick
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 designed for home and office use. Its standout feature is its fast print speed of up to 30 pages per minute. This speed is ideal if you need to print a lot of documents quickly. Compared to others, it’s very reliable for single-sided printing and offers great wireless connectivity options, so you can print from your smartphone or tablet easily. One limitation is that it’s a single-function printer, meaning it cannot scan or copy documents like some of its competitors.
Pros
- Fast print speed of 30 pages per minute
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces
- Wireless connectivity for mobile printing
- Includes a trial for a toner subscription service
Cons
- Single-function printer; cannot scan or copy
- Limited to black and white printing only
- No automatic duplex printing feature
Best for: Home and small office users who need quick printing. Not ideal for: Those who require scanning or copying features.
A solid choice for fast and efficient black and white printing.
2. Best Budget
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 multifunction printer that combines printing, scanning, and copying. It stands out with its ability to handle various tasks within a compact footprint. With a print speed of up to 27 pages per minute, it offers a good balance of productivity. When compared to the Brother HL-L2405W, this model offers extra functionality, but it sacrifices some print speed. The main tradeoff is that it may take longer to produce documents compared to faster models, making it less ideal for high-volume needs.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality: print, scan, and copy
- Print speed of up to 27 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper
- Compact design helps save space
Cons
- Print speed is slower than some competitors
- May require more maintenance than simpler models
- Wireless connection may have occasional issues
Best for: Small businesses needing multifunction capabilities. Not ideal for: Users who prioritize speed over versatility.
Great for those who want a versatile printer but at a slightly lower print speed.
3. Best Lightweight
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, single-function laser printer that focuses mainly on printing. It offers a print speed of up to 19 pages per minute, which is decent for casual printing needs. Compared to the Brother models, it is lighter and smaller, making it easy to place in tight spaces. However, its single-function nature means it lacks scanning and copying capabilities. This limits its functionality if you need a multi-purpose machine.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily in small workspaces
- Print speed of up to 19 pages per minute
- Wireless printing from mobile devices
- Affordable option for basic printing needs
Cons
- Only prints; does not scan or copy
- Slower print speed compared to other models
- Limited paper capacity of 150 sheets
Best for: Users with minimal printing needs or small spaces. Not ideal for: Those who need multifunction features.
A practical choice for light users who need a reliable printer.
4. Best Compact
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 compact monochrome laser printer. It features automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper. This is a significant advantage for those looking to save on paper costs. With a print speed of up to 30 pages per minute, it matches the speed of the HL-L2405W. However, it might take up slightly more space due to its additional features. It is a great option for people who want both speed and efficiency.
Pros
- Fast print speed of up to 30 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing feature
- Compact design that saves space
- Includes a trial for a toner subscription service
Cons
- Limited to black and white printing only
- Single-function model; no scanning or copying
- Might require more maintenance over time
Best for: Users who need fast printing and duplex capability. Not ideal for: Those seeking multifunction features.
A strong choice for efficient double-sided printing.
5. Best Splurge
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 model that combines printing, scanning, and copying in one. It’s well-suited for small teams with its compact size and efficient performance. With fast print speeds of up to 21 pages per minute, it competes well with others in this category. Compared to the Brother DCP-L2640DW, it may not offer as much in terms of multifunction features but excels in space-saving design. Its main downside is that it may not be as durable for heavy use as other models.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality: print, scan, and copy
- Fast print speed of up to 21 pages per minute
- Compact design fits easily in small offices
- Easy setup and wireless printing capabilities
Cons
- Durability concerns for frequent use
- Print quality may vary with different paper types
- Limited paper capacity compared to others
Best for: Small teams needing multifunction capabilities. Not ideal for: Heavy users requiring a more sturdy printer.
A solid option for small teams seeking versatility in a compact design.
6. Best for Small Spaces
The HP LaserJet M207dw is a black-and-white laser printer designed for office environments. It offers fast print speeds of up to 28 pages per minute, making it efficient for busy workplaces. While other models provide multifunction capabilities, this printer focuses solely on quick and high-volume printing. Its limitation is the lack of scanning and copying features, making it less versatile for users who need those functions. However, it excels in speed and reliability, ideal for offices focused on printing.
Pros
- Fast print speed of up to 28 pages per minute
- Durable design for office use
- Automatic duplex printing feature
- Compact size suitable for busy workspaces
Cons
- Single-function printer; no scanning or copying
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic models
- Limited to black and white printing only
Best for: Offices needing fast and reliable printing. Not ideal for: Users requiring multifunction capabilities.
An efficient choice for busy offices focused solely on printing.
7. Best Premium
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 Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a powerful multifunction printer designed for heavy use. It offers printing, scanning, and copying features with a speed of up to 30 pages per minute. This model stands out for its automatic document feeder, making it easy to handle multiple pages. Compared to simpler models, it is larger and may take up more space. However, its capabilities make it a favorite among users needing a versatile solution. The only drawback might be its more complex setup process.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality: print, scan, and copy
- Fast print speed of up to 30 pages per minute
- Automatic document feeder for convenience
- Wireless connectivity for mobile printing
Cons
- Larger size may require more desk space
- More complex setup process than basic models
- Higher maintenance needs due to multifunction use
Best for: Users needing a versatile printer for various tasks. Not ideal for: Those with limited desk space.
A powerful option for those who need a reliable multifunction printer.
8. Runner-Up
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 DeskJet 2955 is an all-in-one inkjet printer, and while it offers multiple features, it does not belong in this category. Its performance in comparison to laser printers is generally lower, especially for those looking for speed and high volume. Laser printers, like the Brother HL-L2405W, are typically better for frequent printing needs, while the DeskJet is best for occasional use. This model is not recommended for users who need quick and efficient printing.
Pros
- All-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy
- Compact design for home use
- Affordable option for occasional printing
Cons
- Slower print speeds compared to laser printers
- Ink costs can add up over time
- Not as reliable for high-volume printing
Best for: Casual users who print infrequently. Not ideal for: Frequent users looking for efficiency.
A practical choice for those who print occasionally but not for high-volume needs.
Laser Printers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each printer. Look at print speed, functionality, and size. If you’re asking, ‘is laser printer worth it,’ this comparison will guide your choice.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Top Pick | Brother | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome… | Best Budget | Brother | $209.99 | Check |
| 3 | Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w | Best Lightweight | Canon, Inc | $87.99 | Check |
| 4 | Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser… | Best Compact | Brother | $179.99 | Check |
| 5 | HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer | Best Splurge | HP Inc. | $139 | Check |
| 6 | HP DeskJet 2955 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer | Best for Small Spaces | HP | $49.99 | Check |
| 7 | HP LaserJet M207dw Laser Wireless Printer | Best Premium | HP | $169 | Check |
| 8 | Canon imageCLASS MF273dw | Runner-Up | 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, user reviews, and expert analysis. This gives us a broad view of the laser printers available today.
How we built this shortlist
Over 30 laser printers were reviewed based on factors like print speed, features, and design. We focused on models that meet the needs of different buyers.
What we ruled out and why
Printers lacking essential features like wireless connectivity or decent print speeds were excluded. We also removed models with numerous negative reviews to ensure quality.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for this review. All data and features were based on research from verified sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated monthly to reflect new models and changes in specifications. We aim to provide the most current information for our readers.
How to Choose Laser Printers
Print Speed
Check the print speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM). A faster printer, like the Brother HL-L2405W at 30 PPM, is better for high-volume printing. For occasional use, a slower speed may be adequate.
Functionality
Decide if you need additional functions like scanning or copying. Multi-function printers like the Brother DCP-L2640DW combine these features. If you only need printing, a single-function printer may save space and money.
Size and Design
Consider the size of the printer. Compact models like the Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w fit well in small spaces. Ensure you have enough room on your desk or home office for the printer you choose.
Wireless Connectivity
Look for wireless options if you want to print from multiple devices. Printers like the Brother HL-L2405W offer mobile printing, making it easy to send documents from your smartphone or tablet.
Monthly Subscription Services
Some printers come with subscription services for toner or maintenance. This can be convenient but adds to the overall cost. Review the terms to see if it fits your budget.
What to look for
Print Quality
Laser printers usually deliver sharp and clear text. It’s important for professional documents. Look for models that specifically mention their print resolution measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher DPI means better quality.
Toner Vs. Ink
Laser printers use toner, which is often more cost-effective than ink for high-volume printing. Toner cartridges last longer and can print more pages. This means lower costs over time if you print frequently.
Energy Efficiency
Check the energy consumption of the printer. Some models are designed to save energy and reduce your electric bill. Look for Energy Star certifications as an indicator of efficiency.
Durability
Consider how well the printer is built. A sturdy design can withstand heavy use, making it a worthwhile investment. Read user reviews to see how other buyers rate durability.
Warranty and Support
Look at the warranty length and customer support options. A good warranty indicates confidence in the product. Support options like chat or phone help can be useful if you have issues.
Frequently asked questions
Is laser printer worth it for home use?
Yes, a laser printer can be worth it for home use, especially if you print frequently. They offer fast print speeds and lower costs per page than inkjet printers.
How long does toner last in a laser printer?
Toner cartridges can last significantly longer than ink cartridges. Depending on usage, they may print thousands of pages before needing replacement.
What is the difference between a laser printer and an inkjet printer?
Laser printers use toner to create images and text, while inkjet printers use liquid ink. Laser printers are faster and more cost-effective for high-volume printing, while inkjets are better for color photos.
Are laser printers noisy?
Generally, laser printers are quieter than inkjet printers. They might make noise while printing, but it is often less disruptive.
What should I consider when buying a laser printer?
Consider print speed, functionality, size, and connectivity options. Also, think about whether you need additional features like scanning and copying.
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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