Laser printers have emerged as indispensable tools in both homes and offices. They’ve moved beyond being mere office equipment to become essential components of productivity, whether you’re drafting contracts, printing school reports, or creating marketing materials. But what makes them stand out from the inkjet crowd, and how do you choose the *right* one?
Laser printers operate on a principle of electrophotographic printing. A laser beam projects an image of the page to be printed onto an electrically charged rotating drum. The drum is coated with a photosensitive material, and where the laser hits, the charge is altered. This creates a static electricity pattern that attracts toner – a fine, dry powder. The toner is then transferred to the paper and fused onto it using heat and pressure. This process, while seemingly complex, is what gives laser printers their edge.
Best Laser Printers (2025)
Laser printers deliver fast, high-quality prints perfect for home offices and businesses with high-volume needs. These machines excel at producing crisp text documents and graphics while offering lower cost-per-page than most inkjet alternatives. Our comprehensive roundup features the top laser printers of 2025, selected based on print quality, speed, reliability, and value.
Below is our curated list of top laser printers, complete with direct links for easy price checking:
| Ranking | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brother HL-L2405W Laser Printer | Click For Price |
| 2 | Brother Multi-Function Laser Printer | Click For Price |
| 3 | Brother HL-L2460DW Laser Printer | Click For Price |
| 4 | HP LaserJet MFP M140w | Click For Price |
| 5 | Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw | Click For Price |
| 6 | HP LaserJet M110w | Click For Price |
| 7 | HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw | Click For Price |
| 8 | HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw | Click For Price |
| 9 | Canon Image Class D570 Laser Printer | Click For Price |
| 10 | Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w | Click For Price |
Making an informed decision about a laser printer purchase is a smart investment in your productivity and efficiency. By carefully weighing the factors outlined above, you can choose a printer that meets your specific needs and budget, providing reliable performance for years to come.
Why Choose a Laser Printer?
The benefits of laser printing technology are numerous and significant, especially when compared to traditional inkjet printers:
- Speed and Efficiency: Laser printers are renowned for their speed. While inkjet printers might churn out 5-15 pages per minute (PPM), even entry-level laser printers typically achieve 20-30 PPM, with high-end models exceeding 50 PPM. This makes a huge difference for large print jobs.
- Superior Text Quality: The precision of the laser beam and the use of toner result in exceptionally sharp and crisp text. Laser printers excel at producing fine lines and small fonts, making them ideal for documents where clarity is crucial. This is a significant advantage over inkjets, which can sometimes suffer from ink bleed, especially on standard paper.
- Lower Cost Per Page (Long Term): While the initial cost of a laser printer might be higher than a comparable inkjet, the long-term cost per page is often significantly lower. Toner cartridges, though more expensive upfront, yield a far greater number of pages than ink cartridges. This is particularly important for users with high-volume printing needs. According to sources like *Consumer Reports*, the cost per page for monochrome laser printing can be as low as 2-3 cents, compared to 5-10 cents (or more) for inkjet.
- Durability and Longevity: Laser printers are generally built to withstand heavier use than inkjet printers. Their components are designed for higher duty cycles, meaning they can handle a larger volume of printing over their lifespan.
- Smudge-Proof Prints: Because the toner is fused to the paper with heat, laser-printed documents are highly resistant to smudging and water damage, unlike inkjet prints which can be vulnerable to moisture.
Navigating the Laser Printer Landscape: Key Considerations
Choosing the right laser printer involves careful consideration of your specific needs and budget. Here are the crucial factors to keep in mind:
- Print Volume (Duty Cycle): Every printer has a “recommended monthly duty cycle,” which indicates the maximum number of pages it can handle per month without excessive wear and tear. Don’t just look at the maximum duty cycle; consider the *recommended* duty cycle for optimal longevity. A home user might need a printer with a recommended duty cycle of 1,000-2,000 pages, while a busy office might require 10,000 pages or more.
- Monochrome vs. Color: Do you primarily print text documents, or do you need to produce color graphics, presentations, or photos? Monochrome laser printers are faster and more economical for black-and-white printing, while color laser printers offer greater versatility but come with a higher price tag and higher toner costs. Consider whether the occasional need for color justifies the added expense.
- Connectivity: Modern printers offer a range of connectivity options.
- USB: A standard direct connection to a single computer.
- Ethernet: Allows the printer to be shared on a wired network.
- Wi-Fi: Enables wireless printing from computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Look for printers that support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for optimal performance.
- Mobile Printing: Support for protocols like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria, and manufacturer-specific apps (e.g., HP Smart, Brother iPrint&Scan) allows for seamless printing from mobile devices.
- NFC (Near Field Communication): Some printers offer NFC connectivity, allowing you to print by simply tapping your compatible smartphone or tablet against the printer.
- Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): This is arguably the most important factor. Don’t just focus on the initial purchase price. Factor in the cost of toner cartridges, the expected yield of those cartridges (pages per cartridge), and the printer’s lifespan. A cheaper printer with expensive, low-yield toner can end up costing you much more in the long run.
- Print Resolution (DPI): Dots per inch (DPI) measures the sharpness of the printed image. 600 DPI is generally sufficient for text documents, while 1200 DPI or higher is recommended for graphics and images where detail is important.
- Paper Handling: Consider the paper sizes and types you’ll be using. Most printers support standard letter and legal sizes, but some also handle envelopes, labels, cardstock, and other specialty media. The input tray capacity is also crucial; a larger capacity means fewer refills. If you frequently print multi-page documents, an automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning and copying is a valuable feature. Duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing) is another important consideration for saving paper and creating professional-looking documents.
- Additional Features:
- All-in-One/Multifunction (MFP): These printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities into a single device. They are a great space-saving option for home offices and small businesses.
- Security Features: For businesses, security is paramount. Look for features like secure boot, secure printing (requiring a PIN to release print jobs), and network security protocols.
- Memory: The amount of RAM in a printer affects its ability to handle complex print jobs, especially those with graphics or large file sizes. More memory generally translates to faster processing and fewer printing errors.
- Brand Reputation and Reliability: Stick with reputable brands known for quality and reliability, such as HP, Brother, Canon, and Xerox. Read reviews and compare models before making a decision.
Best Laser Printers
Laser printers deliver fast, high-quality prints perfect for home offices and businesses with high-volume needs. These machines excel at producing crisp text documents and graphics while offering lower cost-per-page than most inkjet alternatives. Our comprehensive roundup features the top laser printers of 2025, selected based on print quality, speed, reliability, and value.
Brother HL-L2405W Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2405W offers exceptional value for home offices with its fast printing speeds, wireless connectivity, and compact design that fits easily on most desks.
Pros
- Speedy 30 pages per minute printing performance
- Dual-band wireless connectivity (2.4GHz/5GHz) plus USB option
- 250-sheet paper tray reduces frequent refills
Cons
- Monochrome printing only (no color capability)
- Manual duplex printing rather than automatic
- Mobile setup can be challenging for beginners
This compact laser printer delivers reliable black and white documents at impressive speeds. The Brother HL-L2405W handles everyday printing tasks efficiently with its 30 pages per minute output rate. Users with moderate printing needs will appreciate the sizeable 250-sheet capacity tray that minimizes interruptions during busy workdays.
Connection options provide excellent flexibility for modern home offices. The printer features dual-band wireless connectivity that works with multiple devices simultaneously. For users preferring a direct connection, the USB 2.0 interface offers a simple alternative. The Brother Mobile Connect app enables remote printing from smartphones and tablets, making it convenient to print documents while away from the desk.
Paper handling capabilities extend beyond standard documents. The manual feed slot accommodates envelopes and specialty paper types, adding versatility to this otherwise straightforward printer. At just 15.1 pounds with dimensions of 14.2 x 14 x 7.2 inches, the HL-L2405W fits comfortably in small workspaces without sacrificing performance.
Toner management becomes simpler with Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription option. This service delivers replacement cartridges automatically based on usage patterns, potentially saving up to 50% compared to purchasing individual toner cartridges. The printer uses Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL toner cartridges, which produce sharp text and clear graphics without smudging.
Advanced security features protect sensitive information during printing tasks. The printer maintains secure connections while operating on home networks, giving users peace of mind when printing confidential documents. Brother backs this printer with a one-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, demonstrating confidence in its reliability.
Brother Multi-Function Laser Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW offers exceptional value for small businesses seeking a reliable all-in-one solution that combines printing, scanning, and copying capabilities in one space-saving device.
Pros
- Impressive 36 pages per minute print speed
- Multi-device connectivity with dual-band wireless and Ethernet
- 50-page auto document feeder saves time on bulk tasks
Cons
- Limited to black and white printing only
- Lacks fax functionality
- Initial setup may be challenging for tech novices
This compact monochrome laser printer packs serious productivity features into its modest footprint. Business users will appreciate the fast 36 ppm printing speed that handles high-volume jobs with ease. The 250-sheet capacity paper tray minimizes refill interruptions, while the 50-page auto document feeder streamlines multi-page scanning and copying tasks.
Connection flexibility stands out as a major advantage of the DCP-L2640DW. Users can connect via dual-band wireless (both 2.4GHz and 5GHz), Ethernet, or USB 2.0. This versatility ensures seamless integration with existing office networks or direct connection to individual workstations. The Brother Mobile Connect app extends functionality by allowing remote printing and scanning from smartphones and tablets.
Cost-conscious businesses will appreciate the printer’s eco-friendly features. Automatic duplex printing reduces paper consumption, while Toner Save Mode extends cartridge life. The option to enroll in Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription service provides additional savings, with reports of up to 50% reduction in toner costs compared to standard replacement cartridges. For offices that need reliable black and white document printing without color capabilities, this Brother model delivers excellent value.
Brother HL-L2460DW Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2460DW offers exceptional value for small offices with its fast printing speeds, wireless connectivity options, and economical toner usage.
Pros
- Prints up to 36 pages per minute with crisp text quality
- Multiple connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB)
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and reduces waste
Cons
- Only prints in black and white
- Single paper tray might require frequent refills for high-volume users
- Initial setup can be challenging for some users
This compact monochrome laser printer fits easily on a desk while delivering impressive performance. With dimensions of 14.2 x 14 x 7.2 inches, it won’t dominate workspace but still handles substantial printing loads. The 250-sheet capacity paper tray reduces the frequency of refills for typical home office use.
Connection flexibility stands out as a key advantage of the HL-L2460DW. Users can connect via dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, or direct USB, making it adaptable to various office setups. The Brother Mobile Connect App enables remote printing from smartphones and tablets, adding convenience for those who need to print on the go.
Print speed deserves special mention at 36 pages per minute. The printer also features automatic duplex printing, which not only saves paper but also creates more professional-looking documents. Toner Save Mode extends cartridge life, making this an economical choice for budget-conscious offices.
Security features protect sensitive information with access controls and secure connections. The printer is ENERGY STAR compliant and EPEAT Silver rated, making it an environmentally responsible choice. Brother backs this model with a 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, providing peace of mind for business users.
HP LaserJet MFP M140w
The HP LaserJet MFP M140w delivers impressive performance in an ultra-compact design, making it an excellent choice for small teams needing reliable black and white printing capabilities.
Pros
- Exceptionally compact size fits in tight spaces
- Fast printing at 21 pages per minute
- Versatile functionality with print, scan, and copy features
Cons
- Limited to black and white printing only
- No automatic duplex printing
- Requires HP Smart app for scanning functionality
This compact multifunction laser printer stands out as the world’s smallest in its class. Teams of 1-3 people will appreciate its efficient footprint measuring just 10.4 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches, allowing it to fit comfortably in small office spaces or home workstations.
Performance is impressive with swift printing speeds of up to 21 pages per minute and an initial page out time of 8.3 seconds. The printer handles various media types including envelopes, labels, and cardstock with sizes ranging from 4.13 x 5.83 inches to 8.5 x 14 inches. Users particularly value the ID card copying feature, which places both sides of small documents onto a single sheet.
Connectivity options offer flexibility with wireless capabilities supporting various platforms including Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, and Chromebook. The printer maintains reliable wireless connections with a self-reset feature. While some users note occasional network connectivity issues, most find the setup process straightforward. For budget-conscious consumers, this laser printer provides a cost-effective alternative to inkjet printers that suffer from dried-out cartridges when used infrequently.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw stands out as an excellent all-in-one laser printer for small to medium businesses needing reliable color printing with minimal maintenance requirements.
Pros
- Fast two-sided printing at 22 pages per minute for both color and black/white documents
- User-friendly 5-inch customizable touchscreen interface
- Comprehensive connectivity options including wireless printing from mobile devices
Cons
- Relatively heavy at 48.5 pounds, making it difficult to move
- Some users report connectivity issues with Mac computers
- Initial setup can be challenging for less tech-savvy users
The Canon MF656Cdw delivers impressive functionality in a business-oriented package. This 4-in-1 device handles printing, copying, scanning, and faxing with equal proficiency. The automatic document feeder processes up to 50 sheets with one-pass duplex scanning, significantly reducing the time spent managing large scanning jobs.
Print quality remains consistent across both color and black and white documents. With a maximum resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi, text appears crisp and colors vibrant. The quick first print time of approximately 10.3 seconds means less waiting around for important documents. These features make the printer particularly suitable for offices with moderate print volumes.
Paper handling capabilities include a 250-sheet standard cassette plus a single-sheet multipurpose tray. Users appreciate the high-capacity toner options (Toner 067) that reduce the frequency of replacements. Mobile printing support through Canon PRINT Business, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service allows employees to print from virtually any device without complicated setup procedures.
The 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind for business owners concerned about longevity. Environmental certifications (ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver) demonstrate Canon’s commitment to reducing power consumption. For businesses seeking a reliable workhorse printer that balances performance with reasonable operating costs, the MF656Cdw represents a solid investment.
HP LaserJet M110w
The HP LaserJet M110w offers exceptional value for small teams and home offices needing a compact, reliable monochrome laser printer with wireless capabilities.
Pros
- Incredibly compact design fits almost anywhere
- Fast printing at 21 pages per minute
- Seamless wireless printing from any device
Cons
- Print quality may appear light for some users
- No duplex (double-sided) printing
- Limited to black and white printing only
This compact powerhouse lives up to its claim as the world’s smallest laser printer in its class. Measuring just 7.45 x 13.63 x 6.26 inches, the M110w fits comfortably on a desk, shelf, or small workspace without dominating the area. Its sleek white design looks professional in any setting.
Performance stands out with quick printing speeds of up to 21 pages per minute. The initial page comes out in just 8.3 seconds, making it efficient for small offices that need documents quickly. Users can connect via Wi-Fi from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops with compatibility across multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS.
The HP Smart App enhances functionality by allowing direct printing from mobile devices. Setting up the printer proves straightforward for most users. With a 150-sheet input capacity, the M110w handles moderate printing needs without frequent paper refills. The printer works exclusively with genuine HP toner cartridges, which provide reliable quality but limit third-party options.
Small businesses appreciate the printer’s Energy Star certification and auto on/off technology that helps reduce power consumption. At just 2.3 watts when operating, it remains economical to run. Though it lacks features like scanning or copying found in multifunction printers, its focused printing capabilities deliver exactly what many small teams need without unnecessary complexity or cost.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw delivers exceptional performance for small offices seeking professional color printing with comprehensive security features.
Pros
- Fast printing speeds of 26 ppm for both color and black documents
- Comprehensive all-in-one functionality including two-sided scanning
- Advanced security with HP Wolf Pro protection system
Cons
- Relatively heavy at 37.7 pounds
- Restricts use of non-HP toner cartridges
- Higher price point compared to inkjet alternatives
This multifunction printer represents HP’s commitment to business-grade reliability. The device combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities in one streamlined unit. Users benefit from the next-generation TerraJet toner technology that produces vivid colors for professional documents.
Connection options abound with this model. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset capability detects and resolves connection issues automatically. Ethernet connectivity provides a stable wired option for office environments. The HP app enables smartphone printing, scanning, and faxing for employees on the move.
Security remains a priority with the built-in HP Wolf Pro system. This feature protects sensitive business data from cyber threats and malware. The printer includes environmentally conscious design elements that reduce plastic use and energy consumption. Its Energy Star and EPEAT certifications confirm the manufacturer’s sustainability commitment.
Document handling capabilities impress with this laser printer. The 250-sheet input tray accommodates multiple paper sizes from 3×5 inches to 8.5×14 inches. The automatic document feeder and duplex printing save time and paper. Small teams will appreciate the combination of speed and efficiency for daily office tasks.
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw
The HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw delivers professional-quality color printing with robust security features, making it an excellent investment for small offices needing reliable performance.
Pros
- Fast printing speeds of 26 ppm for both color and black documents
- Automatic two-sided printing saves paper and time
- Advanced HP Wolf Pro Security protects sensitive business data
Cons
- Relatively heavy at 30.4 pounds
- Some users report wireless connectivity issues
- Compatible only with original HP toner cartridges
This color laser printer combines efficiency with professional results for small business environments. The next-generation TerraJet toner technology produces vibrant, eye-catching colors that bring documents to life. Users will appreciate the 250-sheet input tray which reduces the frequency of paper refills during busy workdays.
Connectivity options abound with the 3201dw model. The dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset capability automatically detects and resolves connection issues. Ethernet and USB connections provide alternative ways to link devices to the printer. Many businesses will find this flexibility essential for integrating the printer into their existing office setup.
Security stands out as a major advantage of this HP model. The built-in Wolf Pro Security suite offers customizable tools that protect networks against cyber threats and malware. This feature proves particularly valuable for businesses handling sensitive client information or confidential data. The printer also incorporates sustainable design elements, with ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certifications confirming its reduced energy consumption.
The printer’s automatic duplex printing function helps offices save on paper costs while supporting environmental initiatives. Print resolution reaches 600 x 600 DPI, sufficient for most business documents including reports, presentations, and marketing materials. First-time setup receives positive reviews from most users who describe the process as straightforward and quick.
Canon Image Class D570 Laser Printer
The Canon Image Class D570 delivers exceptional value for small offices with its fast printing speeds, wireless connectivity options, and 3-in-1 functionality that eliminates the need for multiple devices.
Pros
- Speedy 28 ppm black and white printing saves valuable time
- Wireless connectivity with mobile printing capabilities enhances workflow flexibility
- Eco-friendly duplex printing reduces paper costs and waste
Cons
- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Single-sheet multipurpose tray may be restrictive for some users
- Setup process can be challenging for some users
The D570 excels as a versatile office workhorse. Its compact design houses impressive capabilities including printing, scanning, and copying functions. Users benefit from the 250-sheet paper capacity that minimizes the need for frequent reloading. The 5-line tilting display makes navigating menus straightforward, even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.
Connectivity options truly shine on this printer. Wi-Fi Direct Connection enables printing directly from mobile devices without needing a router. Canon has ensured compatibility with major mobile printing platforms including Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Canon’s own Print Business app. This flexibility proves invaluable for modern workflows that involve multiple devices.
Energy efficiency remains a standout feature. The D570 consumes just 2 watts in wireless energy saver mode, helping reduce electricity costs over time. The single cartridge system simplifies maintenance by combining the toner and drum in one unit. With the Canon Genuine Toner Cartridge 137 yielding approximately 2,400 pages, businesses can enjoy a reasonable cost per page for their printing needs.
Speed meets quality in this printer. At 28 pages per minute, the D570 handles even large print jobs efficiently. Automatic duplex printing further boosts productivity while conserving resources. For small businesses or home offices looking for reliable monochrome printing with bonus scanning and copying capabilities, this Canon model offers compelling value without overwhelming complexity.
Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w
The Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w offers a solid budget-friendly printing solution for home offices needing basic monochrome printing capabilities in a compact design.
Pros
- Space-saving compact design fits easily in small workspaces
- Fast printing speeds of up to 19 pages per minute
- Energy efficient with less than 2 watts in power saver mode
Cons
- Limited 150-sheet paper capacity
- Monochrome printing only
- No automatic duplex printing feature
This compact laser printer strikes a balance between affordability and functionality for home or small office use. Users will appreciate the wireless connectivity that allows printing from mobile devices without being tethered to a computer. The printer’s small footprint measures just 9.8″ × 14.3″ × 7.8″, making it ideal for desks with limited space.
Performance is adequate for personal use with print speeds reaching 19 pages per minute for standard documents. The 2400 × 600 resolution delivers crisp text documents, though the printer is designed exclusively for monochrome printing. Canon’s genuine toner cartridges yield approximately 1,600 pages before needing replacement, which provides reasonable value for light to moderate printing needs.
Setup proves straightforward for most users with simple wireless configuration options. The LBP6030w connects via Wi-Fi or USB, offering flexibility depending on the user’s home office arrangement. One notable limitation is the paper drawer that must remain open during use, which requires additional clearance space. Energy-conscious consumers will appreciate the low power consumption of just 2 watts in Energy Saver mode, making this an environmentally friendly option for occasional printing tasks.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right laser printer requires consideration of several key factors. Price, print quality, and speed are primary considerations for most buyers.
Print resolution affects the sharpness of text and images. For basic document printing, 600 DPI (dots per inch) is sufficient, while graphics work may require 1200 DPI or higher.
Print speed matters in busy environments. Look for specifications in PPM (pages per minute) – higher numbers mean faster output.
Key Features to Consider
- Paper handling capacity: Check both input and output tray sizes
- Connectivity options: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or mobile printing
- Monthly duty cycle: Maximum recommended print volume
- Toner yield: Number of pages per cartridge
- Memory: Affects performance with complex documents
Paper handling capabilities should match your needs. Standard trays typically hold 250-500 sheets, while some models offer expanded capacity.
Color versus monochrome is a fundamental choice. Color printers cost more upfront and have higher operating costs but offer versatility for marketing materials.
| Feature | Basic Needs | Business Use | High-Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed (PPM) | 20-25 | 30-40 | 45+ |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets | 500+ sheets | 1000+ sheets |
| Memory | 128MB | 256MB-512MB | 1GB+ |
| Connectivity | USB/Wi-Fi | Network/Mobile | Advanced networking |
Consider running costs carefully. Lower-priced printers often have higher per-page costs. Calculate the total cost of ownership based on your expected print volume.
Energy efficiency ratings can reduce operating expenses. Look for ENERGY STAR certification and power-saving modes.
