Looking for a laser printer all in one that combines printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing? The Brother MFC-L2820DW stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its reliable performance and low running costs. For those prioritizing compact design and affordability, the HP LaserJet MFP M140w offers straightforward functionality. Meanwhile, the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw caters well to small office environments with its robust features and high page yield. Each of these options balances speed, quality, and cost, but they also come with specific tradeoffs like size, complexity, or upfront price. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to find your ideal fit.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models generally balance speed and print quality but differ in features like duplexing and connectivity options.
- Compact or budget-friendly options often sacrifice some speed or multifunctionality for size and cost savings.
- Higher-end models tend to offer better paper handling, higher duty cycles, and more advanced scanning features.
- Connectivity flexibility (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, mobile printing) is a common factor separating premium picks from basic models.
- Long-term costs such as toner yield and maintenance significantly impact overall value and should influence initial buying decisions.
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best Overall for Small Offices | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer |  | Best for Solo Users or Small Teams on a Budget | Print Speed: Up to 21 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use |  | Best for Small Office Security and Duplexing | Print Speed: Up to 28 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, High-Volume Small Teams | Print Speed: Up to 35 ppm | Input Tray Capacity: 250 sheets | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Monochrome Wireless Laser Printer |  | Best for Home or Small Office with Space Constraints | Printer Type: Laser | Color: Monochrome | Print Speed: 30 PPM | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer |  | Best for Small Office Space and Basic Monochrome Needs | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| laser printer all in one | Print Speed | Connectivity | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | 36 ppm | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | — |
| HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless | Up to 21 ppm | Wireless, Mobile | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in | Up to 28 ppm | Wireless, Ethernet | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | Up to 35 ppm | Wireless Wi-Fi | Print, Scan, Copy |
| Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Monoc | 30 PPM | — | — |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2820DW stands out as the most versatile choice for small office environments needing a compact, all-in-one monochrome laser printer. Its fast print speed of 36 ppm and 50-page auto document feeder streamline document workflows, outperforming the slower HP LaserJet MFP M140w. Wireless, Ethernet, and cloud connectivity make it easy to integrate into existing setups, though it’s limited to black-and-white output, which means it’s not suited for color jobs. Its space-saving design is perfect for tight spaces, but users should be aware that toner replacement requires compatible cartridges for optimal performance. Compared to larger multifunctions, this model offers a good balance of speed and convenience without unnecessary bulk. Ideal for small offices prioritizing speed and connectivity over color printing or advanced security.
Pros:- Compact and space-efficient design
- Fast 36 ppm print and 23.6 ppm scan speeds
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity with cloud support
- Mobile printing via app
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Requires compatible toner cartridges for best results
Best for: Small office teams needing a compact, fast monochrome multifunction printer with cloud support
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or teams requiring color printing or high-volume color jobs
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
Our verdict“This model suits small offices seeking a reliable, fast monochrome all-in-one with strong connectivity features.”
HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer
The HP LaserJet MFP M140w is a compact, budget-friendly monochrome printer designed for small teams or individuals needing straightforward printing, scanning, and copying. Its quick setup and simple wireless connection make it ideal for users who prioritize ease of use over advanced features. While its maximum speed of 21 ppm is slower than larger models like the HP LaserJet M235sdw, it still offers enough throughput for light daily tasks. However, it’s limited to black-and-white output, and only original HP cartridges with chips are compatible, which can add to ongoing costs. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, this option is smaller and easier to position but sacrifices speed and multifunction capabilities. Best suited for users who want a simple, reliable monochrome printer without fuss or excess features.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces
- Easy wireless setup
- Compatible with multiple mobile and device platforms
- Affordable initial cost
Cons:- Limited to black & white printing
- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
Best for: Single users or small teams with basic printing needs and space constraints
Not ideal for: Teams needing faster speeds, color printing, or more advanced security features
- Print Speed:Up to 21 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Compatibility:Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook
- Size:Smallest in its class
Our verdict“Ideal for individual or small team users who need a simple, space-saving monochrome printer with mobile support.”
HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in-One Laser Wireless Printer, Scan/Copy, Black & White, Duplex, Office Use
The HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw is designed for small office use, combining fast monochrome printing at up to 28 ppm with built-in secure printing features. Its wireless and Ethernet connectivity support multiple devices simultaneously, making it suitable for offices needing reliable document handling. Duplex printing is standard, saving paper and reducing costs, while security features protect sensitive information. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, it offers more security options but is still limited to black-and-white output, which may be a downside for offices needing color. Its 5.3-second first print time is quick, but the 150-sheet paper capacity could require frequent refilling in busy environments. This model makes the most sense for offices with moderate throughput and security needs, but not for those requiring color or high-volume printing.
Pros:- Fast 28 ppm print speed
- Built-in security features
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Duplex printing standard
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Maximum paper capacity of 150 sheets
Best for: Small offices prioritizing security, duplexing, and moderate speed
Not ideal for: Color printing needs or larger workgroups with extensive volume
- Print Speed:Up to 28 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Security:Built-in security features
- Duplex:Yes
Our verdict“A solid choice for small offices needing secure, duplex monochrome printing with reliable connectivity.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw is tailored for small teams needing quick, reliable monochrome printing at speeds up to 35 ppm. Its 250-sheet input tray and auto document feeder support high-volume tasks efficiently, while its wireless connectivity ensures seamless device integration. The auto duplex feature promotes paper savings, making it suitable for busy offices. Compared with the Canon MF273dw, it offers faster speeds and larger input capacity, but it shares the limitation of being monochrome-only. Its reliance on HP chips or circuitry cartridges might increase ongoing costs. This model is best for small teams with high-volume needs who value speed and capacity over color printing capabilities.
Pros:- Fast 35 ppm printing speed
- Large 250-sheet input tray
- Auto duplex printing
- Reliable wireless connectivity
Cons:- No color printing option
- Works only with HP circuitry cartridges
Best for: Small team environments with high-volume monochrome printing requirements
Not ideal for: Offices needing color, or users seeking color multifunctionality
- Print Speed:Up to 35 ppm
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Connectivity:Wireless Wi-Fi
- Duplex:Auto 2-sided
Our verdict“A strong choice for small teams needing fast, high-capacity monochrome printing with minimal fuss.”
Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Monochrome Wireless Laser Printer
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw offers a compact design with solid speed—30 ppm—and multifunction features suitable for home or small office use. Its auto duplex printing and 150-sheet capacity keep operational costs manageable, and the 2400 x 600 LCD allows for straightforward navigation. The device’s size and limited paper capacity make it less ideal for high-volume environments, but its speed and wireless support are advantageous for lighter workloads. Compared to the HP MFP M235sdw, it’s slightly smaller and more space-efficient, though it sacrifices some security features. This model fits users with limited space who still need reliable monochrome printing and scanning capabilities.
Pros:- Fast 30 ppm print speed
- Auto duplex printing
- Compact, space-saving design
- Easy wireless connectivity
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Maximum paper capacity of 150 sheets
Best for: Home offices or small spaces where desktop footprint matters
Not ideal for: High-volume offices or environments needing extensive security features
- Printer Type:Laser
- Color:Monochrome
- Print Speed:30 PPM
- Auto Duplex:Yes
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
Our verdict“Best suited for small spaces requiring reliable, fast monochrome multifunctionality without the bulk.”
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW stands out for its compact size and solid performance, making it an excellent choice for small offices where space is limited. Unlike the larger, more feature-rich HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw, it focuses solely on monochrome functions, which simplifies operation and reduces costs. Its fast print speed of 36 ppm and 23.6/7.9 ipm scan speeds ensure productivity, while multiple connectivity options—including wireless, Ethernet, and USB—provide flexible setup options. However, it’s limited to black-and-white output, which could be a drawback for users needing color. The requirement for compatible toner and absence of color printing are tradeoffs for its compactness and affordability.
This pick makes the most sense for small business owners or solo entrepreneurs who prioritize speed and space over color capabilities and advanced features.
Pros:- Compact design fits well in tight spaces
- Fast print and scan speeds boost productivity
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and Ethernet
- Mobile printing support via Brother Mobile Connect app
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color option
- Requires specific toner cartridges, which may be costly
- Lacks advanced features like duplex printing or high-resolution scanning
Best for: Small offices or home-based businesses that need fast monochrome printing without requiring color or high-volume multifunction features.
Not ideal for: Designers or marketing teams needing color printing and advanced scanning features, as this model only prints in black and white.
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Functionality:Print, Scan, Copy
- Display:Basic LCD screen
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Dimensions:17.1 x 15.7 x 12.5 inches
- Weight:22.7 pounds
Our verdict“This monochrome-focused printer suits small offices that prioritize speed, space efficiency, and straightforward operation without needing color or complex features.”
How We Picked
These laser all-in-one printers were selected based on a combination of core performance metrics, build quality, usability, and value. We prioritized models with reliable print speeds, consistent print quality, and versatile scanning and copying features suitable for both home and small office environments. Ease of setup, user interface, and ongoing maintenance costs also influenced the rankings. To provide a fair comparison, we included options across different price points and feature sets, ensuring there’s a choice for various needs and budgets. The final list reflects a balance between affordability, functionality, and durability, with higher-ranked models excelling in core performance while maintaining reasonable costs.| laser printer all in one | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| HP LaserJet MFP M140w Wireless | Wireless, Mobile |
| HP LaserJet MFP M235sdw All-in | Wireless, Ethernet |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | Wireless Wi-Fi |
| Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Monoc | — |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Laser Printer All In One
Choosing the right laser printer all in one involves evaluating several important factors beyond just price. The ideal model depends on your specific needs, whether it’s high-volume printing, compact size, or advanced scanning features. Understanding these considerations can prevent common pitfalls like underestimating toner costs or selecting a machine lacking essential connectivity options. Here are key factors to keep in mind as you compare models:Print Speed and Duty Cycle
For busy environments, a higher print speed and duty cycle ensure the printer can handle large volumes without frequent jams or slowdowns. However, if your printing needs are light, a slower, less expensive model may suffice. Overestimating your requirements can lead to unnecessary costs, so match the printer’s capacity with your actual workload.
Connectivity Options
Wireless connectivity, Ethernet, and mobile printing support are key features that influence convenience and workflow. A model with multiple options allows seamless printing from various devices and locations. Skipping these features might save money upfront but could cause frustration or limit flexibility in a multi-user environment.
Print Quality and Resolution
While laser printers generally excel at sharp text, some models offer higher resolution for better graphics and detailed scans. If you need professional-looking documents or high-quality image scans, prioritize a model with higher dpi settings. For basic text printing, standard resolution is usually sufficient.
Cost of Consumables
Toner cartridge costs and yield significantly impact long-term expenses. Cheaper units may seem attractive initially but could require frequent replacements, increasing total cost of ownership. Look for models with high-yield toner options to reduce ongoing expenses and downtime.
Size and Design
Space constraints influence your choice—compact models save room but may compromise on paper capacity or speed. Conversely, larger units tend to offer more robust features but require dedicated space. Consider your workspace dimensions and whether portability or built-in features matter most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
Many laser printers support third-party toner cartridges, which can reduce operational costs. However, compatibility varies, and using non-brand supplies might void warranties or cause print quality issues. It’s wise to verify the manufacturer’s policy and read reviews to ensure that third-party options won’t harm your device or compromise performance.
Is duplex printing available on all these models?
Not all models include automatic duplex (double-sided) printing, which can save paper and time. The more advanced or higher-priced units like the Canon MF273dw tend to offer automatic duplexing, while some budget options might require manual flipping. Check each model’s specifications if duplex printing is a priority for your workflow.
How important is scanning quality for home use?
For home or small office use, scanning resolution and ease of use are key. Higher scanning dpi ensures clearer digital copies, particularly for detailed documents or photos. If your scanning needs are occasional, a basic flatbed scanner may suffice, but for frequent use, choose a model with higher resolution and automatic document feeders.
Are wireless printers more prone to connectivity issues?
Wireless connections can sometimes be less stable than wired options, especially in environments with interference or multiple devices. Selecting a model with dual-band Wi-Fi, robust firmware, and good range can mitigate these issues. For critical printing tasks, a wired Ethernet connection may provide more reliability.
What should I do if my toner cartridge runs out too quickly?
High toner consumption can be due to printing high-volume documents or using low-yield cartridges. To extend cartridge life, consider printing in draft mode or adjusting print settings for less toner use. Investing in high-yield toner cartridges can also reduce the frequency of replacements and overall costs.
Conclusion
For most users, the Brother MFC-L2820DW offers the best balance of performance, cost, and ease of use, making it the ideal best overall choice. Small offices or individuals seeking affordability and simplicity will find the HP LaserJet MFP M140w to be a strong best for beginners pick. If you require a more feature-rich model with higher duty cycles and advanced scanning, the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw stands out as a best premium option. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Brother DCP-L2640DW for solid functionality at a lower price point. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific needs—whether that’s volume, connectivity, or budget constraints—so weigh these factors carefully to find the best fit.
