Finding a reliable color laser all-in-one printer under $800 can be challenging due to the variety of features and performance levels. The Brother MFC-L8930CDW stands out as the best overall choice for its balance of speed, print quality, and multifunctionality. For a more budget-friendly option, the Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw offers solid performance with fewer advanced features. Meanwhile, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw excels in ease of use and wireless connectivity. The main tradeoffs involve balancing print quality, speed, and upfront costs—more advanced features often come with higher prices or increased complexity. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each model to help you make an informed decision.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked overall pick offers a strong balance of speed, print quality, and multifunction features for most users.
- Wireless connectivity and ease of use are key factors that set apart many of the best models in this price range.
- Tradeoffs often involve choosing between higher print speeds and advanced features versus simplicity and lower cost.
- Brand reputation and build quality significantly impact long-term reliability and maintenance costs.
- Familiarity with specific features like auto duplexing and scanning capacity helps narrow down the best fit for different needs.
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best Overall for Business with Security and Speed | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw |  | Best for Small to Medium Business with Color and Mobile Features | Printer Type: Laser | Output Type: Color | Weight: 49 pounds | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Digital Color All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Small Businesses and Home Offices with Versatility | Print Speed: up to 31 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 29/22 ipm | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF751Cdw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for High-Volume Small/Home Office with Expandability | Print Speed: 35 pages per minute | Color: Yes | Wireless: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing Speed and Auto Duplex | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Duplex: Auto | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw – Wireless All-in-One Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small/Medium Offices | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device Printing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner |  | Best for Small Offices with Versatility Needs | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | First Print Time: 10.3 seconds | Display: 5-inch Color Touchscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for Cost-Conscious Small Offices | Print Speed: 24 ppm | Supported Cartridges: High-yield supported | Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 1,500 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Xerox C303a Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best for High-Speed, Cost-Efficient Workflows | Printer Type: Laser | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | Print Speed: 32 ppm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity |  | Best for Versatile Small Office Use with Security Features | Print Speed: 19 ppm | Scan Speed: 29/22 ipm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer (Renewed) |  | Best Overall for Small Office Professionals | Print Speed: up to 26 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | Connectivity: Wireless, Dual-band Wi-Fi | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Offices Prioritizing Space and Versatility | Color: Color | Wireless: Yes | Functions: Print, scan, copy, fax | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, Professional Office Output with Multiple Functions | Printer Type: Laser | Printer Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax | Print Speed: 26 pages per minute | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF654Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer |  | Best for Home or Small Office with Moderate Volume | Print Speed: 22 PPM color | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Connectivity: Wireless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| color laser all in one under 800 | Print Speed | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | up to 33 ppm | Wireless (dual-band), Gigabit Ethernet |
| Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw | — | Ethernet, USB, USB 2.0 |
| Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless | up to 31 ppm | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF751Cd | 35 pages per minute | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | up to 26 ppm | Wireless |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cd | up to 26 ppm | Wireless, Mobile Device Printing |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cd | 26 pages per minute | Wireless, Mobile Device Printing |
| Xerox C235dni Wireless Color L | 24 ppm | Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing |
| Xerox C303a Wireless Color Las | 32 ppm | Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing |
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | 19 ppm | Wireless, Cloud |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | up to 26 ppm | Wireless, Dual-band Wi-Fi |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cd | — | — |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301 | 26 pages per minute | Wireless, Ethernet |
| Canon Color imageCLASS MF654Cd | 22 PPM color | Wireless |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW stands out as the most comprehensive option for small to medium-sized businesses, offering rapid printing at up to 33 ppm and a robust 80-page auto document feeder. Its advanced security features, including NFC card reader and triple-layer protection, give it an edge over models like the Canon MF642Cdw, which lacks such security. The compact design helps save space, but the higher upfront cost and large toner replacements might be less attractive for tight budgets or low-volume users. Compared to the Brother MFC-L3780CDW, it offers faster speeds and better security but at a higher initial price.
Pros:- High-quality color and black printing with fast speeds
- Advanced security features including NFC authentication
- Cost-effective high-yield toner cartridges
- Compact design that fits small office spaces
Cons:- Initial purchase price can be high for small businesses
- Large toner cartridges may be costly to replace frequently
Best for: Small business teams needing fast, secure, and space-efficient printing and scanning.
Not ideal for: Solo entrepreneurs or very low-volume users who won’t fully utilize high-speed or security features.
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Touchscreen:7-inch color
- Connectivity:Wireless (dual-band), Gigabit Ethernet
- Security:Triple Layer Security, NFC card reader
- Dimensions:25% smaller than previous model
- Certifications:EPEAT Gold, ENERGY STAR
Our verdict“This model suits busy offices seeking speed, security, and space-saving design, despite a higher initial investment.”
Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw
The Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw offers a well-rounded package for offices that need reliable color printing and scanning, with a respectable 22 ppm speed and a bright 5-inch touchscreen. Its speed and user-friendliness make it suitable for busy workplaces, but compared with the Brother MFC-L8930CDW, it lacks advanced security options and has a heavier weight that can complicate relocation. The single paper tray may also require frequent reloading, which could slow down high-volume workflows. Unlike the Brother MFC-L3780CDW, it doesn’t support faxing, which limits its utility for some small business needs.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 22 ppm with quick first print time
- User-friendly 5-inch color touchscreen
- Mobile connectivity for printing/scanning from devices
- 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Relatively heavy, making movement less convenient
- Limited to one paper tray, requiring reloads
- No duplex printing capability
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses prioritizing color quality and mobile device compatibility.
Not ideal for: Large workgroups or offices requiring heavy-duty security and high-volume capacity.
- Printer Type:Laser
- Output Type:Color
- Weight:49 pounds
- Dimensions:16.6″D x 17″W x 16.6″H
- Controller Type:Android, iOS
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
- Maximum Sheet Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Ethernet, USB, USB 2.0
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for offices seeking reliable color output with mobile features, but it may fall short for high-volume or security-focused environments.”
Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Digital Color All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L3780CDW provides a versatile all-in-one solution with speeds up to 31 ppm and features like wireless connectivity, copying, scanning, and faxing. Its security features and eco-friendly modes make it attractive for small business use, but the need for a subscription service for toner savings adds ongoing costs. The setup process can be complex due to its many features, and the initial price may be a barrier for budget-conscious users. Compared to the Canon MF751Cdw II, it offers slightly slower speeds but includes faxing, making it more suitable for offices that still rely on fax communication.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds suitable for small business needs
- Wireless and wired connectivity options
- Eco-friendly features like Eco Mode and duplex printing
- Secure printing with NFC badge authentication
Cons:- Requires enrollment in a subscription service for toner savings
- Complex setup with multiple features
- Higher initial cost compared to basic printers
Best for: Small office or home office users needing multifunctionality, wireless setup, and eco features.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a straightforward, low-cost printer without subscription-based toner savings or complex setup.
- Print Speed:up to 31 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 29/22 ipm
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
- Display:3.5-inch touchscreen
- Paper Capacity:Maximum capacity based on 20 lb. paper
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This model is best for small businesses wanting multifunction capabilities with eco-friendly features, despite setup complexity and ongoing subscription costs.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF751Cdw II Wireless Duplex Laser Printer
The Canon MF751Cdw II is tailored for busy small or home offices that require fast color printing at 35 ppm and expandable paper capacity. Its user-friendly 5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and its wireless and duplex features support high-volume, efficient workflows. While it performs well for high-speed printing, it’s primarily designed for smaller setups and lacks some advanced features found in larger enterprise printers, which may limit its scalability in bigger environments. The need for optional cassettes for maximum capacity adds extra cost for those intending to print at high volumes regularly.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of 35 ppm in color and monochrome
- Easy wireless setup and mobile device printing
- Expandable paper capacity up to 850 sheets
- User-friendly 5-inch color touchscreen
Cons:- Requires optional cassette for maximum capacity, adding cost
- Designed mainly for small or home offices, limited for large workgroups
- Lacks advanced security features
Best for: Small or home offices with high-volume color printing needs and room for expansion.
Not ideal for: Large organizations or offices needing advanced security or enterprise-level features.
- Print Speed:35 pages per minute
- Color:Yes
- Wireless:Yes
- Duplex:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:50-sheet simplex
- Paper Capacity:Standard 250 sheets, expandable to 850
- Touchscreen:5-inch color
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This printer is ideal for small or home offices demanding fast, expandable, and user-friendly color printing, with some limitations on security and scalability.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw delivers dependable color printing at up to 26 ppm, along with scanning, copying, and duplex capabilities. Its auto document feeder enhances efficiency, especially for small teams handling multiple documents. Compared with the Canon MF751Cdw II, it offers a slightly slower speed but makes up for it with seamless wireless connectivity and straightforward operation. However, reliance on HP’s proprietary toner chips may cause issues with third-party cartridges, and firmware updates can restrict usage, which could be a concern for cost-conscious offices. Its compact size makes it suitable for small spaces but less ideal for high-volume environments.
Pros:- Fast color printing up to 26 ppm
- Includes auto duplex, scan, and copy functions
- Auto document feeder speeds up multi-page tasks
- Wireless setup simplifies network integration
Cons:- Requires original toner with HP chips, potentially increasing costs
- Firmware restrictions may limit third-party cartridges
- Limited high-volume capacity for larger offices
Best for: Small teams needing reliable, fast color printing with duplex and scanning features.
Not ideal for: High-volume print environments or organizations seeking extensive security options.
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Duplex:Auto
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
Our verdict“This model offers a balanced mix of speed and convenience for small teams but falls short for demanding high-volume or security-conscious setups.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF665Cdw – Wireless All-in-One Duplex Laser Printer
The Canon imageCLASS MF665Cdw earns its top spot by balancing speed, ease of use, and robust features, making it ideal for small to medium offices that need reliable, high-quality color printing. Compared to the Xerox C235dni, it offers faster print speeds and a more intuitive touchscreen, though it is bulkier and the high-capacity toner can be costly to replace. Its automatic duplex printing and wireless setup support busy workflows, while the 3-year warranty adds peace of mind. However, space constraints might make its size a challenge for very small offices, and toner costs can add up with high-volume use.
Pros:- Fast print speeds with high-quality output
- Easy wireless setup and mobile printing support
- Large 5-inch color touchscreen for quick operation
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Bulky design may not fit in tight spaces
- High-capacity toner can be costly to replace
- Limited to small/medium office volume
Best for: Small to medium-sized office environments with frequent color printing needs and space for larger equipment
Not ideal for: Very small home offices or spaces where compact design is critical due to its size
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Display:5-inch Color Touchscreen
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Document Feeder:50-sheet duplex
Our verdict“This model is best suited for small or medium offices needing dependable, high-quality color laser printing with a user-friendly interface.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF662Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer with Copier and Scanner
The Canon imageCLASS MF662Cdw offers a versatile package with fast printing, copying, and scanning, making it a strong alternative to the MF665Cdw for small offices that prioritize multifunctionality. It shares the same 26 ppm speed and 5-inch touchscreen but supports more mobile apps and offers a slightly lower initial investment, though it retains the bulky footprint. Compared to the Xerox C235dni, it’s more comprehensive in features but may be less suited for those with very tight spaces. The high-capacity toner supports frequent use, but the overall size and toner costs remain considerations for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros:- Fast, high-quality color printing
- Supports multiple mobile printing options
- Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- User-friendly 5-inch touchscreen
Cons:- Bulkier than some compact models
- High-capacity toner remains costly over time
- Limited paper capacity at 250 sheets
Best for: Small office teams needing an all-in-one device with flexible mobile and network features
Not ideal for: Home users with limited space or infrequent printing requirements due to its larger size
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- First Print Time:10.3 seconds
- Display:5-inch Color Touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Printing
- Paper Capacity:250-sheet cassette
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for small offices requiring a multifunctional, reliable color laser printer with supportive mobile features.”
Xerox C235dni Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Xerox C235dni stands out for its affordability and support for high-yield cartridges, making it a solid choice for small offices with moderate printing demands. Its 24 ppm speed is slightly slower than the Canon options, but it compensates with lower ongoing costs and straightforward setup. It lacks some advanced mobile features found in Canon models but supports essential wireless and mobile printing. Compared to the Xerox C303a, it’s more budget-friendly but has a lower monthly duty cycle of 1,500 pages, making it less suitable for heavier use. The starter toner may need frequent replacement if printing volume increases.
Pros:- Affordable running costs with high-yield cartridge support
- Easy wireless and mobile printing setup
- Fast printing and copying for small office workflows
- Professional-quality color output
Cons:- Limited monthly volume (up to 1,500 pages)
- Starter toner may run out quickly with heavier use
- Requires Wi-Fi network for wireless features
Best for: Budget-conscious small offices with moderate color printing needs
Not ideal for: High-volume environments or users needing advanced mobile features and larger paper capacities
- Print Speed:24 ppm
- Supported Cartridges:High-yield supported
- Monthly Duty Cycle:Up to 1,500 pages
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing
- Includes:Starter toner (500 yield)
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“A cost-effective, straightforward choice for small offices with moderate printing volume and budget constraints.”
Xerox C303a Wireless Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Xerox C303a offers impressive speed at 32 ppm, making it well-suited for busy small to medium offices that need quick turnaround times. Its support for high-yield toner options and duplex document feeding enhances both efficiency and cost savings. While it shares features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing with the Canon models, its larger size may be a concern for compact spaces. The device’s extensive feature set, including fax and auto power-on, is ideal for office environments seeking robust document handling, but the setup process can be complex for less experienced users. Toner replacement costs could add up with frequent use.
Pros:- High-speed printing and scanning at 32 ppm
- Supports high-yield toner for lower running costs
- Duplex automatic document feeding enhances productivity
- Wireless and mobile printing support
Cons:- Bulky design may limit placement options
- Setup can be complex for some users
- Toner replacement can be costly with high volume
Best for: Offices that prioritize speed and cost-efficiency for moderate to high-volume printing
Not ideal for: Tight spaces or users seeking a simple, plug-and-play device with minimal setup
- Printer Type:Laser
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Print Speed:32 ppm
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing
- Automatic Document Feeder:Yes, duplex
- Supported Media:Legal, finance, administrative
Our verdict“Best for offices requiring rapid, high-volume printing with efficient cost management and feature-rich operation.”
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers a well-rounded package with fast printing and scanning speeds, a sizable 250-sheet tray, and versatile connectivity options, including cloud integration. Its 3.5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and auto duplex printing saves paper. Compared to the Canon models, it includes more security features and a slightly lower initial cost, but setup can be more complex for less tech-savvy users. Its 19 ppm speed is slower than some competitors, which might matter for high-volume environments. The subscription requirement for certain features and high initial cost are tradeoffs to consider.
Pros:- Fast scan and print speeds suitable for small office workflows
- Supports multiple connectivity options including cloud services
- Automatic duplex printing and large paper capacity
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
Cons:- Slower print speed compared to some models at 19 ppm
- Requires enrollment in subscription services for full feature access
- Setup process can be complex for some users
Best for: Small offices needing a secure, feature-rich device with good connectivity options
Not ideal for: Very high-volume printing environments or users wanting the fastest speeds available
- Print Speed:19 ppm
- Scan Speed:29/22 ipm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Cloud
- Display:3.5-inch color touchscreen
Our verdict“Ideal for small offices that require secure, versatile, and connected color laser printing with good document handling features.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301cdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer (Renewed)
This refurbished model stands out for combining rapid, professional-quality color printing with robust security features like HP Wolf Pro Security, making it ideal for small office teams needing reliable, secure output. Compared with the Canon MF753Cdw II, it offers faster printing and a more comprehensive security suite, though it requires original HP cartridges with chips, which can add to ongoing costs. Its wireless connectivity and automatic document feeder streamline workflow, but firmware updates are necessary for security enhancements, and as a renewed product, its condition may vary. This model is best suited for office environments prioritizing security, speed, and wireless convenience, though it might be less ideal for users who prefer budget-friendly, third-party cartridge options or are sensitive to potential refurb condition variability.
Pros:- Fast color printing and high-quality scans
- Wireless connectivity with self-reset Wi-Fi
- Advanced security features for protected workflows
- Energy-efficient design
Cons:- Requires original HP cartridges with chips or circuitry
- Firmware updates necessary for full security
Best for: Small office teams needing fast, secure, and reliable color printing with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users seeking inexpensive third-party toner options or those wary of refurbished products
- Print Speed:up to 26 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Connectivity:Wireless, Dual-band Wi-Fi
- Automatic Document Feeder:Yes
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Media Sizes Supported:Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio 8.5 x 13, Envelopes, A4, A5, A6, B5, B6, Postcard, Custom sizes 3 x 5 in to 8.5 x 14 in
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for small offices that prioritize speed, security, and professional quality in a reliable package.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF753Cdw II – All-in-One Color Duplex Laser Printer
The Canon MF753Cdw II offers solid all-in-one functionality with wireless capabilities and duplex printing, making it a good fit for small offices or busy home setups. Unlike the HP 3301cdw, it emphasizes space-saving design and auto duplex printing to reduce paper costs, though it doesn’t specify print speed or security features. Its all-in-one setup simplifies workflows, but the lack of detailed reviews and potentially higher color laser costs may be drawbacks for high-volume users. This model is best for those who want an efficient, space-conscious device that handles all office tasks without fuss, but it might fall short for users needing advanced security or high-speed throughput.
Pros:- Wireless connectivity for multiple devices
- All-in-one functionality saves space
- Duplex printing reduces paper usage
- Compact design for small spaces
Cons:- Limited information on print speed and security features
- Potentially higher ongoing costs for color laser printing
Best for: Small offices or home workers needing versatile, space-efficient color laser multifunctionality
Not ideal for: High-volume offices needing maximum speed or advanced security features
- Color:Color
- Wireless:Yes
- Functions:Print, scan, copy, fax
- Duplex:Yes
- Type:Laser Printer
Our verdict“Ideal for small workspaces that want versatile printing without taking up much room, but less suited for high-volume or security-sensitive environments.”
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw Wireless All-in-One Color Laser Printer
This model builds on the features of the 3301cdw by adding faxing, making it well-suited for small businesses needing comprehensive communication tools. Its fast 26 ppm speed matches the 3301cdw, with the added benefit of auto duplex printing and wireless ease. Compared with the Canon MF654Cdw, it offers a slightly more streamlined design and stronger security options, but it weighs over 41 pounds, which may make relocation difficult. Its automatic document feeder and multi-functionality support busy workflows, but the weight and reliance on HP cartridges with chips can be downsides for some users. It’s best for small offices or workgroups that need all functions in a reliable, fast package, but not for those prioritizing mobility or third-party cartridge flexibility.
Pros:- Fast print speeds suitable for busy offices
- All-in-one with scan, copy, and fax functions
- Wireless connectivity for flexible device placement
- Auto duplex printing for saving paper
Cons:- Heavy at over 41 pounds, difficult to move
- Limited third-party cartridge compatibility
Best for: Small office environments requiring fast, multifunction color printing with fax capabilities
Not ideal for: Users needing lightweight, portable printers or those avoiding proprietary cartridges
- Printer Type:Laser
- Printer Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
- Print Speed:26 pages per minute
- Maximum Copy Speed:25 pages per minute
- Resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
Our verdict“Perfect for small offices that need a robust, all-in-one device with fast speeds and secure features, despite its weight and cartridge limitations.”
Canon Color imageCLASS MF654Cdw Wireless Duplex Laser Printer
This Canon model emphasizes high-capacity toner and paper trays along with a 3-year warranty, making it appealing for users who want to minimize refilling interruptions. Its 22 PPM color speed is modest compared to the 3301 series, but auto duplex printing and wireless connectivity support efficient workflows. The larger footprint and somewhat complex initial setup could pose challenges for limited spaces or less tech-savvy users. While it offers a good balance of high-capacity features and energy savings, it may not satisfy those needing the fastest speeds or compact designs. This printer is better suited for moderate-volume environments where longevity and ease of maintenance matter most.
Pros:- Wireless connectivity from multiple devices
- High-capacity toner and paper tray reduce refilling frequency
- Auto duplex printing saves paper and reduces costs
- Three-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Slower print speed may be insufficient for heavy workloads
- Larger footprint requires more space
- Initial setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Home or small office users with moderate printing needs and a preference for durability and high capacity
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or users requiring quick print speeds and compact size
- Print Speed:22 PPM color
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Automatic Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Duplex Printing:Yes
Our verdict“A solid choice for users valuing high capacity and durability over speed, suitable for moderate-volume environments with space to accommodate its size.”
How We Picked
In evaluating these printers, I prioritized performance, build quality, and usability, focusing on models that deliver reliable color printing, scanning, copying, and faxing within the $800 budget. I considered factors such as print speed, print resolution, wireless connectivity, and ease of setup to ensure these models suit both home and small office environments. Cost of maintenance and consumables was also weighed, as these influence long-term value. The ranking reflects a combination of overall versatility, user-friendliness, and durability, with a preference for models that balance advanced features with straightforward operation.Factors to Consider When Choosing Color Laser All In One Under 800
Choosing the right color laser all-in-one under 800 requires understanding key features that impact daily use and long-term satisfaction. Beyond initial cost, consider how the printer’s speed, print quality, and connectivity options match your specific needs. Additional features like duplex printing, scanning, and faxing can add convenience but may also increase complexity and cost. Making the right choice involves balancing these factors based on your workload and technical comfort level. This guide will help clarify what to look for to avoid overspending on unnecessary features or settling for underperformers.Print Speed and Resolution
For busy environments, print speed is critical—look for models offering at least 20 pages per minute to keep up with demand. Print resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI), influences the sharpness and color accuracy of your output; aim for at least 600 DPI for professional-quality results. Keep in mind that higher speeds and resolutions often come at a higher price, so prioritize based on your volume and quality needs.
Connectivity and Usability
Wireless features like Wi-Fi and mobile printing are almost essential for modern workflows, especially in shared office spaces. Ease of setup and user interface also matter—look for models with intuitive controls or touchscreen panels. Compatibility with common operating systems and apps can streamline your printing, scanning, and copying tasks, reducing frustration and downtime.
Automatic Document Feeder and Duplexing
An automatic document feeder (ADF) simplifies scanning and copying multiple pages, saving time and effort. Duplex printing, which allows printing on both sides automatically, cuts paper costs and improves document professionalism. If you handle large documents regularly, these features are worth prioritizing, even if they add to the initial cost or complexity.
Long-term Costs and Maintenance
Initial price is only part of the total cost of ownership. Consider toner cartridge capacity and replacement costs—models with larger toner yields reduce ongoing expenses. Maintenance features like easy toner access and reliable build quality can also lower downtime. Investing in a durable, well-built model might cost more upfront but pays off over years of use.
Size and Design
Space constraints matter—compact models fit smaller offices or home setups better, but might sacrifice some features or speed. Conversely, larger models tend to offer more capacity and faster performance but require more space. Consider your available workspace and workflow needs to pick a size that balances convenience with functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these printers for photo printing?
While color laser printers can produce decent photo prints, they are generally not optimized for high-quality photo output compared to dedicated photo printers or inkjet models. Laser printers excel in printing sharp, vibrant documents and graphics, but if photo quality is a priority, you may need to look for specialized photo printers or consider inkjet options. For most small office or home use, laser printers provide sufficient color quality for presentations and marketing materials.
How often will I need to replace toner cartridges?
Toner replacement frequency depends on your printing volume and cartridge capacity. Higher-yield cartridges offer more pages before refilling, reducing downtime and ongoing costs. For lighter use, standard cartridges might last several months, but heavy-volume environments should opt for high-capacity options. Regularly checking your toner levels can help you plan replacements without interrupting workflow.
Are multifunction features like scanning and faxing reliable in these models?
Most models in this category handle scanning and copying reliably, with features like automatic document feeders improving efficiency. Fax functionality is less common but still available on some models; ensure you verify support if you need it. Keep in mind that the quality of scanned documents depends on the resolution and the scanner’s sensor quality. For regular use, these features are generally dependable on reputable brands.
Is wireless connectivity secure on these printers?
Wireless security varies by model, but most reputable printers include options like WPA2 encryption and password protection to safeguard your network. Regular firmware updates also improve security features. For sensitive information, consider models with secure printing options or network management features to control access. Proper Wi-Fi setup and network security best practices are essential to keep your data safe.
How do I decide between a smaller or larger paper capacity?
Paper capacity impacts how often you need to refill the tray, which can influence productivity. Smaller trays are suitable for light use or limited space but may require frequent refills. Larger trays reduce interruptions, ideal for high-volume printing environments. Consider your typical workload and available space to choose a model that balances convenience with practicality.
Conclusion
For most users seeking a reliable all-in-one color laser printer under 800, the Brother MFC-L8930CDW offers the best overall performance with fast speeds and comprehensive features. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw for solid value, despite fewer advanced options. Those new to color laser printing or with simple needs will appreciate models like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw for their ease of use. For users wanting more premium features without exceeding budget, some models offer high-capacity toner and duplexing. Match your choice to your workload, space, and technical comfort to find the best fit.
