Best Laser Printer For Home Office 2021
Stop throwing money away on ink! If you're a home office warrior tired of bleeding your budget dry with expensive ink cartridges, then this is for you.
We’re diving deep into the world of laser printers, specifically the best bargain buys for 2021.
Laser printers are your secret weapon for affordable, high-quality printing, but only if you pick the right one.
Why Laser Printers Matter for the Frugal Home Office
Forget those ink-guzzling inkjet printers. Laser printers use toner, which lasts significantly longer and offers a lower cost per page. That means more money in your pocket.
Plus, laser printers are known for their speed and crisp text, perfect for reports, invoices, and all your home office needs. You'll spend less time waiting and more time working.
Our Top Picks: Laser Printers That Won't Break the Bank
Budget-Friendly Champion: Brother HL-L2300D
This monochrome laser printer is a no-frills workhorse. It's compact, reliable, and incredibly affordable.
If you primarily print text documents and don't need color, this is your go-to option.
All-in-One Value: Canon imageCLASS MF232w
Need to scan and copy in addition to printing? This all-in-one laser printer is the perfect solution. It offers a great balance of features and affordability.
It includes wireless connectivity, making it easy to print from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Color on a Dime: HP Color Laserjet Pro M255dw
If color printing is a must, this HP model delivers vibrant results without emptying your wallet. It offers fast printing speeds and wireless connectivity.
It also has a user-friendly touchscreen for easy navigation.
Detailed Reviews: Getting Down to Brass Tacks
Brother HL-L2300D Review
The Brother HL-L2300D excels in simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Its print quality for text is excellent, producing sharp and clear documents.
It's incredibly easy to set up and use, making it perfect for those who aren't tech-savvy. The automatic duplex printing feature saves paper and money.
Its main drawback is the lack of wireless connectivity, requiring a USB connection to your computer.
Canon imageCLASS MF232w Review
The Canon imageCLASS MF232w is a versatile all-in-one printer that offers excellent value. It prints, scans, and copies with ease, making it a great addition to any home office.
The wireless connectivity allows for convenient printing from multiple devices. Print quality is good for both text and graphics.
The toner cartridges are reasonably priced, keeping your running costs low.
HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw Review
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw is a compact and efficient color laser printer. It delivers vibrant and accurate colors for photos and graphics.
It's fast printing speeds help you get your work done quickly. The mobile printing capabilities are a great bonus.
While the initial cost is higher than monochrome printers, the long-term cost per page is still competitive.
Side-by-Side Specs and Performance
| Printer Model | Print Speed (ppm) | Resolution (dpi) | Connectivity | Duplex Printing | Cost Per Page (est.) | Overall Performance Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2300D | 30 | 2400 x 600 | USB | Yes | $0.02 | 4.5 |
| Canon imageCLASS MF232w | 28 | 600 x 600 | USB, Wi-Fi | Yes | $0.03 | 4.0 |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw | 22 (Color/Mono) | 600 x 600 | USB, Wi-Fi | Yes | $0.05 (Color), $0.02 (Mono) | 4.2 |
Customer Satisfaction: What Users Are Saying
Based on user reviews and surveys, the Brother HL-L2300D consistently receives high marks for its reliability and ease of use. Customers appreciate its low cost and consistent performance.
The Canon imageCLASS MF232w is praised for its versatility and user-friendly interface. Users find the scanning and copying functions very convenient.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw receives positive feedback for its vibrant color quality and fast printing speeds. Customers also appreciate its mobile printing capabilities.
Maintenance Cost Projections
Brother HL-L2300D: Expect to replace the toner cartridge every 2,600 pages. Third party toners are widely available and can save even more.
Canon imageCLASS MF232w: Toner cartridges typically last for about 2,400 pages. Watch out for generic cartridges that might cause issue.
HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw: Color toner cartridges will need to be replaced more frequently than black. Budget accordingly for these replacements.
Key Takeaways: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best laser printer for your home office boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you only need black and white printing, the Brother HL-L2300D is an unbeatable value.
If you need an all-in-one solution, the Canon imageCLASS MF232w offers a great balance of features and affordability. The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw is the best option for color printing.
Remember to consider long-term maintenance costs when making your decision. Buying cheaper third party toners can save your buck.
Ready to Print Smarter, Not Harder?
Stop throwing money at expensive ink cartridges. Choose a laser printer that fits your needs and budget and start saving today!
Click the links below to check out the latest prices and deals on our top picks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are laser printers really cheaper than inkjet printers in the long run?
A: Yes, absolutely! While the initial cost of a laser printer may be higher, the cost per page is significantly lower due to the longer lifespan of toner cartridges.
Q: Can I use generic toner cartridges in my laser printer?
A: Yes, you can, but be cautious. Some generic cartridges may not be compatible or may produce lower quality prints. Always read reviews and choose reputable brands.
Q: How often will I need to replace the toner cartridge?
A: This depends on your printing volume, but toner cartridges typically last for several thousand pages. Check the manufacturer's specifications for the estimated yield of your cartridge.
Q: Do I need a color laser printer for printing photos?
A: While color laser printers can print photos, the quality may not be as high as dedicated photo inkjet printers. If photo printing is a priority, you may want to consider a separate photo printer.
Q: Are laser printers noisy?
A: Laser printers can be slightly noisier than inkjet printers, but the noise level is generally not disruptive. Many laser printers also have a quiet mode that reduces noise levels.
