Choosing the best premium laser printer for small business involves balancing high performance, reliability, and advanced features. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out as the best overall due to its versatile all-in-one capabilities and robust build. For those prioritizing cost-efficiency, the Brother HL-L2405W offers solid monochrome printing with mobile support. Meanwhile, the HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw is ideal for small teams needing seamless connectivity and fast printing. However, tradeoffs in this category often include higher upfront costs versus long-term savings, and complex feature sets versus ease of use. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find the best fit for your business needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked printers excel in balancing print quality, speed, and multifunction features suited for small business workflows.
- All-in-one models like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offer versatility but come with higher prices and larger footprints.
- Monochrome models like the Brother HL-L2405W provide cost-effective, reliable printing, especially for text-heavy documents.
- Connectivity options such as mobile printing and wireless setup are essential for modern small business environments.
- Tradeoffs often involve higher initial investment versus ongoing operational savings and ease of use.
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity |  | Best Overall All-in-One for Small Offices | Print Speed: up to 19 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 29/22 ipm (black/color) | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing |  | Best Value Compact Monochrome Printer for Small Teams | Print Speed: 30 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Small Teams Needing Reliable Monochrome MFP | Printer Type: Laser | Printer Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Wireless | Print Speed: Up to 35 ppm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer |  | Best High-Performance Color Laser for Growing Small Businesses | Print Speed: up to 33 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 104 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 80 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best for Home Offices with High-Speed Monochrome Printing | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier |  | Best Overall for High-Volume Monochrome Printing | Print Speed: 50 ppm | Auto Document Feeder Capacity: 70 pages | Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi, Mobile device printing | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer with Copy, Scan, Fax |  | Best for Compact, Everyday Office Use | Print Speed: Up to 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| premium laser printers for small business | Print Speed | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | up to 19 ppm | Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | 30 pages per minute | Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | Up to 35 ppm | — |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | up to 33 ppm | Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | 36 pages per minute | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One | 50 ppm | Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi, Mobile device printing |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | Up to 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out as the most versatile option in this lineup, combining fast color printing with comprehensive scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. Compared with the Brother HL-L2405W, it offers color functionality and a larger touchscreen, making it more adaptable for varied tasks, though it comes with a higher initial cost. Its automatic duplex printing and 250-sheet paper capacity significantly boost productivity in busy small office environments. The inclusion of wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, and cloud connectivity ensures seamless integration with multiple devices, while the eco-friendly modes help reduce operational costs. The main tradeoff is the setup complexity and the subscription requirement for some features, which might challenge less tech-savvy users. This pick makes the most sense for small businesses needing an all-in-one color laser with high efficiency, despite the higher entry price.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds suitable for office workflows
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless and cloud services
- Automatic duplex printing and large 250-sheet capacity improve efficiency
- Intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation
Cons:- Requires enrollment in subscription service for full feature access
- Complex setup process can be challenging for some users
- Higher initial cost compared to basic printers
Best for: Small offices that require versatile color printing and multifunction capabilities with easy network integration
Not ideal for: Home users or small teams focused solely on monochrome printing, as they won’t utilize most features and may find it too complex
- Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 29/22 ipm (black/color)
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color touchscreen
- Energy Star:Yes
- EPEAT Rating:Silver
Our verdict“This all-in-one color laser printer is ideal for small businesses demanding versatility and speed, despite its higher price and setup complexity.”
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2405W is a compact, budget-friendly choice for small teams that prioritize fast monochrome printing. Compared with the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, it lacks color and multifunction features but excels in simplicity and affordability. Its 30 ppm speed ensures quick output, and the 250-sheet paper tray supports high-volume printing without frequent refills. Wireless and mobile printing support make it easy to connect with smartphones and tablets, ideal for on-the-go workflows. The absence of duplex printing is a drawback for cost-conscious users aiming to reduce paper use, and its basic feature set may fall short for heavy-duty office needs. This model suits small teams or home offices focused on fast black-and-white prints with minimal fuss and cost.
Pros:- Fast print speeds of up to 30ppm
- Wireless connectivity with mobile printing support
- Large 250-sheet paper tray reduces refills
- Includes a free toner subscription trial
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- No automatic duplex for double-sided printing
- Basic features may not support complex workflows
Best for: Small teams or home offices needing fast monochrome printing with easy mobile connectivity
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or multifunction capabilities, as it only prints in black and white
- Print Speed:30 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Printer Type:Monochrome laser
- Warranty:1 year
- Auto Duplex:No
Our verdict“This printer offers high-speed monochrome printing at a compelling price, best suited for small teams focused on black-and-white output.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw is a dependable monochrome all-in-one designed for small team environments where speed and reliability matter. Compared with the Brother HL-L2405W, it offers a higher print speed of 35 ppm and additional multifunction features like copying and scanning, making it more suitable for busy workgroups. Its wireless and mobile capabilities facilitate easy device integration, and duplex printing helps save paper. However, its weight and size are less convenient for tight spaces, and it’s limited to black-and-white prints, which may restrict use cases. Cartridge costs can also add up, especially with HP’s circuitry. This printer fits well for small teams needing a compact, fast, monochrome MFP with easy wireless operation.
Pros:- Fast printing and scanning speeds of up to 35 ppm
- Wireless connectivity for flexible device integration
- Automatic duplex printing for efficiency
- All-in-one functionality with copying and scanning
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Relatively heavy and bulky for small spaces
- Cartridge replacement with chips can be costly
Best for: Small team environments that need fast, reliable monochrome printing, copying, and scanning
Not ideal for: Offices requiring color printing or more advanced document management features, since it’s monochrome-only
- Printer Type:Laser
- Printer Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Wireless
- Print Speed:Up to 35 ppm
- Maximum Copies Per Run:Up to 999
- Scanner Type:ADF, flatbed
- Item Weight:23.1 pounds
Our verdict“A solid monochrome MFP that balances speed and multifunctionality, best for small teams needing dependable black-and-white output.”
Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business Color Laser All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-L8930CDW offers a compelling blend of speed, color versatility, and security, making it ideal for small businesses with expanding document needs. Its impressive 33 ppm color and monochrome print speeds surpass many competitors like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, especially in scanning with a remarkable 104 ipm. Its 7-inch touchscreen simplifies complex workflows, and high-yield toner options help control long-term costs. Security features, including NFC badge authentication, make it suitable for sensitive business documents. The main drawback is the high initial investment, which might be prohibitive for smaller setups, and toner replacement costs are higher with high-yield options. This model fits well for small offices needing fast, secure, color printing with extensive scanning and copying capabilities.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds significantly boost productivity
- High-yield toner options lower per-page costs
- Secure features including NFC badge authentication
- Large 7-inch color touchscreen for ease of use
Cons:- High initial purchase price
- Toner replacement can be expensive
- Setup can be complex for some users
Best for: Growing small businesses requiring fast, secure, color multifunction printing with high-volume capacity
Not ideal for: Very small or startup offices on a tight budget, or those only needing monochrome output, due to its higher cost
- Print Speed:up to 33 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 104 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:80 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet
- Security:NFC badge authentication
- Dimensions:25% smaller than previous model
Our verdict“This robust color laser all-in-one is best for small businesses prioritizing speed, security, and high-volume output despite higher upfront costs.”
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2460DW emphasizes speed and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for home offices or small teams focused on black-and-white documents. Its impressive 36 ppm print speed exceeds the other monochrome options, and automatic duplex printing helps cut paper costs. Compared to the Brother HL-L2405W, it offers more versatile mobile and network printing options, fitting well with remote or mobile workstyles. The manual feed slot for specialty paper adds some flexibility but may be less convenient for frequent use. Its monochrome-only design limits its appeal for users with a need for color, but for straightforward, fast printing, it’s hard to beat.
Pros:- Exceptional print speed of 36ppm
- Wireless and mobile printing support
- Automatic duplex printing for saving paper
- Large 250-sheet paper tray
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Toner subscription required for cost savings
- Manual feed slot less convenient for frequent use
Best for: Home offices or small teams needing quick monochrome printing with mobile support
Not ideal for: Offices that require color printing or multifunction features, as this model is dedicated to black-and-white output
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This high-speed monochrome printer is ideal for home or small office users focused on black-and-white documents with quick turnaround times.”
Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier
The Brother MFC-L5915DW stands out for its impressive speed, reaching up to 50 pages per minute, making it ideal for busy offices that need rapid throughput. Compared to the Brother MFC-L2820DW, which offers slightly slower speeds at 36 ppm, this model is better suited for larger workloads. Its high-yield toner cartridge reduces ongoing costs, a significant advantage over lower-capacity options, though the initial investment is higher. The 70-page auto document feeder and flexible connectivity, including wireless and Ethernet, make it versatile for different office setups. However, it’s primarily monochrome, so it won’t serve those needing color printing, and its large footprint may be a concern in smaller spaces. This model is perfect for small businesses where volume and speed take priority over color features.
Pros:- Exceptional print and copy speeds of up to 50 ppm
- High-yield toner reduces running costs
- Versatile paper handling with a 70-page auto document feeder
- Flexible connectivity including WiFi and Ethernet
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color options
- Larger footprint may be unsuitable for tight spaces
- Higher upfront cost due to premium features
Best for: Small offices with high-volume monochrome printing needs and space for larger equipment
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring color printing or minimal space due to its size
- Print Speed:50 ppm
- Auto Document Feeder Capacity:70 pages
- Connectivity:Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi, Mobile device printing
- Toner Cartridge:TN920UXXL, 18,000 pages
- Included Toner:3,000 pages
- Security Features:Triple Layer Security
Our verdict“This printer suits small businesses that prioritize speed, volume, and cost-efficiency over color capabilities.”
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer with Copy, Scan, Fax
The Brother MFC-L2820DW offers a compact footprint combined with solid performance, making it an excellent choice for small offices that need reliable monochrome printing and document handling. Its print speed of up to 36 ppm is slightly slower than the MFC-L5915DW, but it still handles high-volume tasks well, especially with its 50-page auto document feeder. The 2.7-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and its multiple connectivity options—including wireless, Ethernet, and USB—add flexibility. Compared to color laser options, this model’s monochrome focus keeps costs lower but limits its use cases. The need for a subscription service for toner discounts can be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers. Overall, this printer is a practical, space-saving choice for small teams with high-volume black-and-white printing needs.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds suitable for high-volume tasks
- Compact design fits small office spaces
- Versatile connectivity including wireless, Ethernet, and USB
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color option
- Requires a subscription for toner savings, adding ongoing costs
- Toner refill process can be less convenient than cartridge-based systems
Best for: Small offices needing reliable monochrome printing with a compact setup
Not ideal for: Workplaces requiring color output or those with limited budget for toner subscriptions
- Print Speed:Up to 36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Paper Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
Our verdict“This model makes the most sense for small businesses that need dependable monochrome output in a space-efficient design.”
How We Picked
These printers were selected based on key factors like print quality, speed, reliability, features, and total cost of ownership. Priority was given to models that offer robust build quality, ease of integration into small business workflows, and a good balance between upfront price and ongoing costs. We also considered user reviews and industry reputation to ensure each model delivers consistent performance. The ranking reflects how well each printer meets the needs of small businesses looking for premium features without sacrificing value or usability.| premium laser printers for small business | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | — |
| Brother MFC-L8930CDW Business | Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Brother MFC-L5915DW All-in-One | Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band WiFi, Mobile device printing |
| Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless M | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Premium Laser Printers For Small Business
When selecting a premium laser printer for small business, it’s important to consider several critical factors beyond basic features. These choices can significantly impact your operational efficiency, costs, and ease of use. A strategic approach will help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or choosing a model that doesn’t scale with your business growth.Print Speed and Volume Capacity
For small businesses with frequent printing needs, speed and capacity matter. A printer that can handle high volumes quickly reduces bottlenecks and keeps workflow smooth. Look for models with a high pages-per-minute rate and large paper trays to minimize refilling. However, faster printers often come with higher costs, so balance speed against your typical monthly print volume.
Multifunction Features
All-in-one capabilities like scanning, copying, and faxing can save space and money by replacing multiple devices. Consider whether your business needs these features regularly or if a simpler printer suffices. Keep in mind that multifunction models may require more maintenance and can be more complex to operate, so assess your team’s comfort level with advanced features.
Connectivity and Mobile Support
Wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and cloud integration are vital for small businesses that rely on flexible workflows. Ensure the printer supports your existing devices and apps, reducing setup headaches. However, more advanced connectivity options can introduce security concerns, so choose a model with robust security features if your data sensitivity is high.
Cost of Ownership
Initial purchase price is just part of the total cost. Consider toner costs, replacement intervals, and maintenance expenses over the printer’s lifespan. Models with high-yield toner options can reduce long-term expenses but may have higher upfront prices. Balancing purchase cost with ongoing operational costs helps prevent budget surprises.
Build Quality and Size
Premium small business printers should be durable enough to withstand frequent use. Check build quality reviews and consider the footprint—larger models may offer better capacity but require more space. A compact design benefits small offices with limited space, but sometimes at the expense of capacity or features.
Security Features
With sensitive business documents, security is a key concern. Look for printers with features like encrypted printing, user authentication, and secure storage. These features help prevent unauthorized access and protect your business data, especially when devices are connected over wireless networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a color laser printer worth the extra cost for small business?
Color laser printers can enhance branding and professional appearance, especially for marketing materials or presentations. However, they tend to have higher toner costs and slower speeds compared to monochrome models. For businesses where color is rarely needed, a monochrome printer might be more cost-effective, but if vibrant visuals are frequent, investing in color makes sense.
How important is mobile printing support for my small business?
Mobile printing support offers significant convenience, allowing staff to print documents directly from smartphones or tablets. This flexibility can improve productivity, especially in dynamic work environments. While not essential for every business, it’s a valuable feature if your team frequently uses mobile devices and needs quick access to printing without complex setups.
Should I prioritize faster print speeds over print quality?
In most cases, small business printers are designed to balance speed and quality effectively. If your primary need is high-volume text documents, faster speeds can boost efficiency. Conversely, for detailed graphics or professional reports, prioritizing print quality may justify slightly slower speeds. Consider your typical document types when making this tradeoff.
What maintenance considerations should I be aware of?
Premium laser printers generally require regular toner replacements and occasional cleaning. Look for models with high-yield toner options to extend intervals between replacements. Also, check the availability of local service or support, which can reduce downtime. Proper maintenance can extend your printer’s lifespan and keep it running smoothly.
Are security features really necessary for small business printers?
Yes, especially if your business handles sensitive data or has multiple users. Security features like encrypted printing, user authentication, and secure access controls prevent unauthorized document access. These features also help protect against network vulnerabilities, making them a smart investment for peace of mind and data integrity.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for small business owners who need a reliable, versatile printer is the Brother MFC-L3720CDW. If you’re looking for the best value, the Brother HL-L2405W offers solid monochrome printing at a lower price. For those who want a premium experience with advanced features and faster speeds, the HP LaserJet Pro 3101sdw stands out. Beginners or smaller teams should consider models with straightforward setup and user-friendly interfaces, while larger or more security-conscious businesses may prefer all-in-one, high-capacity options. Tailor your choice to your specific workflow, space, and budget to get the best results.
