If you run a small business, you know how important it is to produce professional-looking documents without breaking the bank. Color laser printers offer fast, vibrant output at a low cost per page, making them ideal for your office. In this guide, we review the best color laser printers for small business in 2026, covering models from Brother, Xerox, HP, and Canon. Whether you need an all-in-one or a compact print-only device, we have you covered. For more printer insights, check out our Printers category.
Buying Guide
Print Speed and Volume
For a small business, print speed directly affects productivity. Look for models rated at 19 ppm or higher in color. The Brother MFC-L8930CDW reaches 33 ppm, while the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw prints at 26 ppm. If your office handles large volumes, consider a printer that supports high-yield cartridges to reduce downtime. For heavy workloads, see our top high volume printers for busy offices in 2026.
Connectivity and Mobile Support
Modern small offices rely on wireless printing from laptops, tablets, and phones. All six printers we reviewed include dual-band Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, or Ethernet. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW even offers a companion app for remote management. For seamless multi-device setups, check our guide to best network printers.
Cost Per Page and Toner Yield
Ongoing toner costs can make or break your budget. Many printers ship with starter cartridges, but high-yield options like the Brother TN635XXL (up to 7,500 pages black) lower long-term expenses. The Xerox C235dni supports high-yield cartridges for low running costs. Always check the yield numbers before purchasing.
All-in-One vs. Print Only
Decide whether you need scanning, copying, and faxing. Models like the Brother MFC-L8930CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw include an automatic document feeder and duplex scanning. If you only need printing, the Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw saves space and money. For duplex capabilities, refer to our best duplex printers.
Final Thoughts
For most small businesses, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer offers the best balance of features and value, with its intuitive touchscreen and cloud connectivity. If you need faster speeds and advanced security, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is a strong choice with TerraJet toner for vivid colors. Both deliver reliable performance that will keep your office running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best color laser printer for a small business?
The best model depends on your needs: if you want an all-in-one with a large touchscreen and cloud support, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a top pick. For faster speeds and security features, consider the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw.
How much does it cost to run a color laser printer?
Running costs vary by toner yield and page coverage. High-yield cartridges can reduce cost per page significantly. For example, Brother’s TN635XXL black toner yields up to 7,500 pages, lowering your per-page expense. Always compare yield ratings before buying.
Do color laser printers print photos well?
Color laser printers are excellent for business graphics, charts, and text, but they may not match inkjet quality for high-resolution photo prints. If you occasionally need photos, a laser printer like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw with TerraJet toner can produce vivid results for presentations.
What should I look for in a small business color laser printer?
Focus on print speed, connectivity options (Wi-Fi, AirPrint), toner yield, and whether you need scanning or copying. Automatic duplex printing saves paper and time. For a comprehensive overview, check our best duplex printers guide.
