Best Color Laser Printer All In One 2020
Tired of bleeding cash on printer ink and overpriced machines? We get it. This review is for the savvy shopper, the budget-conscious business owner, and the home user who refuses to pay a premium for features they barely use.
We're diving deep into the world of color laser all-in-one printers from 2020 to find the best bargains. Forget the bells and whistles – we're focused on value, reliability, and keeping those running costs down.
Why a Color Laser All-in-One in 2020?
A color laser all-in-one is a workhorse. They print, scan, copy, and often fax, all in one compact unit. Laser printers are known for their speed, efficiency, and longevity, making them a smart choice for high-volume printing or anyone tired of constantly replacing inkjet cartridges.
2020 was a sweet spot, before prices skyrocketed and supply chains got wonky. You can often snag these models refurbished or lightly used at incredible discounts.
The Bargain Hunter's Shortlist (2020 Edition)
Here are our top picks, tailored to different needs and budgets, all from the year 2020:
- For the Home Office Hero: Brother MFC-L3770CDW - Reliable, duplex printing, and a decent color output.
- For the Small Business Saver: HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw - Fast printing, good connectivity, and a user-friendly interface.
- The Ultra-Budget Option: Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw - Solid performance for the price, but may lack some advanced features.
Detailed Reviews: Diving into the Details
Brother MFC-L3770CDW: The Home Office Champion
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is a solid all-rounder. It offers automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and a user-friendly touchscreen display.
Print quality is good for everyday documents and presentations. While not photo-quality perfect, it's more than adequate for most home office needs.
One of its biggest strengths is its toner efficiency. It will help you keep your running costs down over time.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: Speed and Connectivity for Small Biz
The HP M281fdw is built for speed. Its quick print speeds and robust connectivity options make it ideal for a busy small business environment.
HP's Smart app makes it easy to print from mobile devices. Scanning to cloud services is another plus.
Toner cartridges can be a bit pricey, so keep an eye out for deals or consider compatible options. Consider this before purchasing.
Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: The Budget-Friendly Option
If you're on a tight budget, the Canon MF644Cdw is a great choice. It delivers surprisingly good performance for the price.
Print quality is decent, and it offers both wireless and mobile printing. The initial toner cartridges are smaller, so factor in replacement costs sooner rather than later.
It may lack some of the advanced features of the other models. It is a good option for basic printing, scanning, and copying needs.
Side-by-Side Specs and Performance
| Feature | Brother MFC-L3770CDW | HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw | Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Print Speed (Black) | 25 ppm | 22 ppm | 22 ppm |
| Print Speed (Color) | 25 ppm | 22 ppm | 22 ppm |
| Duplex Printing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Wireless, Ethernet, USB |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | 40,000 pages | 40,000 pages | 30,000 pages |
| Performance Score (Out of 5) | 4.0 | 4.2 | 3.8 |
Note: Performance scores are based on aggregated user reviews and expert opinions, focusing on reliability, print quality, and ease of use.
Customer Satisfaction: What Are People Saying?
We scoured online reviews and forums to gauge customer satisfaction with these models. Here's a snapshot:
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: Users praise its reliability and consistent print quality. Some complain about the initial setup process.
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw: Many appreciate its speed and mobile printing capabilities. Toner costs and occasional paper jams are common complaints.
- Canon Color imageCLASS MF644Cdw: Customers are generally happy with the value for money. A few mention the smaller initial toner cartridges as a drawback.
Maintenance Cost Projections: The Long Game
The upfront cost of a printer is just one piece of the puzzle. Toner replacement, paper, and potential repairs all add up over time.
Laser printers typically have lower per-page costs than inkjet printers. However, toner cartridges can still be a significant expense.
Researching third-party toner options and understanding the printer's maintenance schedule is crucial for budgeting. Look for high yield toner to reduce costs.
Key Takeaways: Making the Smart Choice
Choosing the best color laser all-in-one printer for your needs requires careful consideration. Think about your printing volume, desired features, and long-term maintenance costs.
The 2020 models offer a sweet spot of features and affordability. Refurbished or used options can save you even more.
Don't get caught up in the hype of the latest models. Focus on finding a reliable workhorse that fits your budget and printing needs.
Time to Act: Snag Your Bargain!
Ready to upgrade your printing setup without breaking the bank? Start your search for a 2020 Brother, HP, or Canon color laser all-in-one printer today. Check out online marketplaces, refurbished dealers, and local electronics stores for the best deals. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are refurbished printers reliable?
A: Refurbished printers can be a great value. Look for reputable sellers with warranties and return policies.
Q: Can I use third-party toner cartridges?
A: Yes, but be cautious. Some third-party cartridges may not be compatible or may damage your printer. Read reviews carefully before purchasing.
Q: How often should I clean my laser printer?
A: Refer to your printer's manual for cleaning instructions. Regular cleaning can help prevent paper jams and maintain print quality.
Q: What does "duplex printing" mean?
A: Duplex printing means the printer can automatically print on both sides of the paper, saving you paper and money.
Q: Where can I find drivers for older printer models?
A: Visit the manufacturer's website (Brother, HP, Canon) and search for drivers for your specific model. You can find them there.
