Laser printers are the workhorses of the printing world, known for their speed, reliability, and cost efficiency. Whether you need a printer for home, office, or small business use, a laser printer can handle everything from simple text documents to more complex graphics. With so many options available, though, it can be tough to figure out which one suits your needs. Let’s break it down and help you find the best laser printer for 2024.
Why Should You Choose a Laser Printer?
Speed, durability, and lower long-term costs.
If you’re tired of dealing with the slow speeds and constant ink cartridge replacements that come with inkjet printers, a laser printer might be the upgrade you need. Laser printers use toner cartridges that last much longer and print faster, making them ideal for high-volume tasks. Plus, they tend to offer sharper text, which is great for professional documents.
Best Laser Printers of 2024
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw
- Pros: Fast printing speed, robust security features, versatile (print, copy, scan, fax).
- Cons: A bit bulky for home offices, higher upfront cost.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is one of the top-rated laser printers for both home and office use. Its multifunction capabilities make it an all-in-one solution for any printing needs. It’s fast, secure, and offers vibrant color printing that’s ideal for presentations or graphics. However, it’s on the bulkier side, so make sure you’ve got the desk space!
- Brother HL-L2350DW
- Pros: Compact, affordable, wireless printing.
- Cons: Black and white only, lacks multifunction features.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly and compact, the Brother HL-L2350DW is a great option. It’s a basic monochrome laser printer that gets the job done quickly and efficiently. Ideal for students or home offices that primarily need black-and-white printing, it’s wireless and easy to set up, making it a popular choice for first-time laser printer users.
- Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw
- Pros: Excellent color printing, fast, duplex printing.
- Cons: High cost of toner cartridges, a bit heavy.
The Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw is a top contender if you need a powerful laser printer with high-quality color printing. It’s perfect for businesses that rely on vibrant, professional documents. The downside? The toner cartridges can be a bit pricey, so make sure you factor that into your long-term budget.
- Lexmark B2236dw
- Pros: Compact, fast, cost-effective.
- Cons: Limited to black and white, basic features.
For those who want a simple, no-fuss laser printer, the Lexmark B2236dw is a reliable choice. It’s affordable, compact, and prints in black and white at a fast speed, making it great for office or home use. Just don’t expect any fancy features beyond basic printing.
How to Choose the Best Laser Printer for You
Not all laser printers are created equal, and the one that’s right for you depends on what you need it for. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Purpose
- Are you printing mostly documents or do you need high-quality color images? If you just need black-and-white documents, the Brother HL-L2350DW or Lexmark B2236dw are great options. If color is a priority, look into models like the Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw.
- Speed and Volume
- If you’re printing in bulk, speed matters. For offices, a fast, multifunction printer like the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw can handle heavy workloads. For more casual home use, something simpler and slower will save you money.
- Budget
- Factor in not just the cost of the printer but also the cost of toner. While laser printers save you money in the long run, some models, like the Canon imageCLASS, have higher toner prices.
Where to Buy the Best Laser Printers
The best laser printers can be found online or in tech stores like Best Buy, Amazon, or directly from the brand websites like HP, Brother, and Canon. Keep an eye out for deals, especially around Black Friday or back-to-school season. Some retailers offer extended warranties and service plans, which can be a good idea for more expensive models.
When Should You Upgrade to a Laser Printer?
If you’re dealing with high-volume printing, tired of slow inkjet printers, or need professional-quality text and color prints, it might be time to invest in a laser printer. They’re perfect for businesses, home offices, or even students who print a lot of reports and documents.
The Downsides: What Are the Negative Aspects of Laser Printers?
Even the best laser printers have a few drawbacks. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- High Upfront Costs: While they save money over time, laser printers tend to have higher upfront costs compared to inkjets. You’ll need to budget for the initial investment.
- Toner Prices: Though toner lasts longer than ink, it can be pricey. Brands like Canon tend to have more expensive toner cartridges, so make sure to factor that into your long-term costs.
- Size: Some laser printers, especially those with multifunction features, can be quite bulky. Make sure you have enough space for it in your home or office.
Conclusion
Which Laser Printer Should You Buy?
Ultimately, the best laser printer for you depends on your needs. If you’re looking for something powerful and versatile, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is your best bet. For budget-conscious shoppers, the Brother HL-L2350DW offers great value for everyday black-and-white printing. If high-quality color prints are essential, go for the Canon imageCLASS MF743Cdw.