Top 7 Best Color Printer For Small Business

The best color printers for small business are those offering a blend of print quality, speed, and cost-efficiency, with top contenders including the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn, the Xerox C410dn Color Laser, and the Xerox C245 Wireless All-in-One.

Selecting the right printer is crucial for any small business to ensure professional-looking documents, efficient workflows, and manageable running costs. A well-chosen color printer can significantly impact your team’s productivity and your company’s presentation.

We’ve narrowed down the vast market to the top 7 color printers for small business after extensive research and hands-on comparison. Our evaluation focused on key aspects such as print speed, color accuracy, connectivity options, and overall value. This guide will help you find the perfect printer to meet your business’s specific needs, leading you directly to our detailed comparison table.

3 Standout Picks: Enterprise-Level Performance, Professional High-Speed Printing, and Compact Hybrid Offices

Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.

7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs

The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

1
HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn
HP

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn

Main Highlights
  • Enterprise-level reliability
  • High-quality color output
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  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Enterprise Color Laser
  • Duplex Printing
2
Xerox C410dn Color Laser
Xerox

Xerox C410dn Color Laser

Main Highlights
  • Extremely fast (42 ppm)
  • Excellent network connectivity
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  • Professional color output
  • Professional Color Laser
  • 42 ppm Performance
3
Xerox C245 Wireless All-in-One
Xerox

Xerox C245 Wireless All-in-One

Main Highlights
  • Compact footprint
  • Fast print speed (26 ppm)
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  • Easy wireless setup
  • Compact All-in-One
  • 26 ppm Performance
4
Epson EcoTank ET-4800
Epson

Epson EcoTank ET-4800

Main Highlights
  • Extremely low ink cost
  • Cartridge-free system
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  • Versatile all-in-one
  • Cartridge-Free Supertank
  • All-in-One with ADF
5
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless
Brother

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless

Main Highlights
  • Reliable color laser
  • Auto duplex printing
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  • Good paper capacity
  • Wireless Color Laser
  • Auto Duplex Printing
6
HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw
HP

HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw

Main Highlights
  • All-in-one functionality
  • Wireless and duplex printing
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  • Good for office environments
  • All-in-One Color Laser
  • Wireless Connectivity
7
Brother Work Smart 1360DW
Brother

Brother Work Smart 1360DW

Main Highlights
  • Cost-effective inkjet
  • Automatic duplex printing
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  • Intuitive color display
  • Wireless Color Inkjet
  • Automatic Duplex Printing

7 Models Reviewed in Depth

#1. HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn
Enterprise
Grade Performance
High
Volume Printing
Duplex
Paper Saving
Enterprise-Level Performance
91
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Speed
9.2
Durability
9.3
Security
9.0
Print Quality
9.1
Check Price on Amazon

The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn is built for serious business, offering enterprise-grade performance and reliability. You’ll benefit from its robust design and automatic duplex printing, which helps save on paper and streamlines document creation. This printer is designed to handle high volumes with consistent, professional-quality color output, making it a workhorse for busy offices.

Keep in mind that this is a print-only device, so you’ll need separate solutions for scanning or copying. It’s an excellent choice if your priority is uncompromising print quality and speed for a larger small business or department, but it’s not the best fit if you require an all-in-one solution.

Pros

  • Enterprise-level reliability
  • High-quality color output
  • Automatic duplex printing

Cons

  • Print-only functionality
  • Larger footprint
  • Higher initial investment

Specifications

Type
Color Laser Printer
Functions
Print
Features
Duplex Printing
Ideal For
Business
Model Number
6QN28A
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#2. Xerox C410dn Color Laser

Xerox C410dn Color Laser
High-Speed
42 ppm
Network
Ready
Professional
Color Prints
Professional High-Speed Printing
89
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Speed
9.3
Connectivity
9.0
Color Quality
8.8
Setup
8.7
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The Xerox C410dn is a powerhouse for businesses needing professional color printing at high speeds. You’ll be impressed by its blazing 42 pages per minute (ppm) performance, ensuring that even large print jobs are completed quickly. With both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity, it’s incredibly versatile for network integration, and the simple guided setup makes getting started a breeze.

While its speed and connectivity are top-notch, remember this is a dedicated printer, so it doesn’t include scanning or copying functions. This model is an excellent choice if your primary need is rapid, high-quality color document output in a networked environment, but look elsewhere if you need an all-in-one device.

Pros

  • Extremely fast (42 ppm)
  • Excellent network connectivity
  • Professional color output

Cons

  • Print-only device
  • Can be bulky
  • Toner costs can add up

Specifications

Type
Color Laser Printer
Print Speed
42 ppm
Connectivity
Ethernet, Wi-Fi
Ideal For
Business
Setup
Guided
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#3. Xerox C245 Wireless All-in-One

Xerox C245 Wireless All-in-One
Compact
Space Saver
Fast
26 ppm
Wireless
Easy Setup
Compact Hybrid Offices
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Speed
8.9
Compact Design
9.2
Wireless Setup
9.1
Functionality
8.7
Check Price on Amazon

The Xerox C245 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a compact, all-in-one color printer specifically designed for hybrid offices and small businesses. You’ll appreciate its 26 pages per minute (ppm) performance for both color and monochrome, ensuring your documents are ready quickly. The hassle-free wireless setup means you can get it up and running with minimal fuss, a real time-saver.

While its compact size is a major advantage for space-constrained environments, you might find its paper capacity slightly less than larger, dedicated office machines. This printer is perfect if you prioritize space-saving design and quick wireless connectivity, but consider other options if high-volume printing is your absolute top priority.

Pros

  • Compact footprint
  • Fast print speed (26 ppm)
  • Easy wireless setup

Cons

  • Lower paper capacity
  • Not for very high volume
  • Limited advanced features

Specifications

Type
Color All-in-One
Print Speed
26 ppm
Connectivity
Wireless
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy
Ideal For
Hybrid Offices
Check Price on Amazon

#4. Epson EcoTank ET-4800

Epson EcoTank ET-4800
Cartridge-Free
Ink System
EcoTank
Low Cost
All-in-One
Home Office
Cartridge-Free Economy
87
OVERALL
SCORE
Ink Economy
9.5
Functionality
8.8
Connectivity
8.7
Print Quality
8.5
Check Price on Amazon

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a game-changer if you’re tired of expensive ink cartridges, offering a cartridge-free Supertank system for incredible ink economy. You’ll appreciate its all-in-one functionality, including scanning, copying, and faxing, along with an automatic document feeder (ADF) for efficient multi-page tasks. It’s particularly well-suited for home offices and small businesses looking to minimize running costs.

While the ink savings are substantial, the initial purchase price can be higher than traditional cartridge printers, and print speeds are moderate at 10 ppm. This printer is an excellent investment if you prioritize long-term ink savings and versatile functionality, but perhaps not if you need lightning-fast print speeds for large batches.

Pros

  • Extremely low ink cost
  • Cartridge-free system
  • Versatile all-in-one

Cons

  • Higher initial cost
  • Moderate print speed
  • Ink refills can be messy

Specifications

Type
Color Supertank All-in-One
Ink System
Cartridge-Free
Print Speed
Up to 10 ppm
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Features
ADF, Ethernet
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#5. Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless
Wireless
Laser All-in-One
Auto
Duplex Printing
250-Sheet
Capacity
Reliable Laser All-in-One
86
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
8.9
Paper Handling
8.8
Connectivity
8.7
Reliability
8.6
Check Price on Amazon

The Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a solid choice for small businesses seeking a reliable wireless color laser all-in-one. You’ll benefit from its automatic duplex printing for paper saving and a generous 250-sheet capacity, reducing the frequency of paper refills. It combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into one efficient unit, making it a versatile workhorse for daily office tasks.

While it offers excellent functionality and laser quality, keep in mind that color laser toner cartridges can be more expensive than inkjet refills. This printer is ideal if you need a dependable, multi-functional color laser printer for consistent office use, but it might not be the most economical choice if your color printing needs are very infrequent.

Pros

  • Reliable color laser
  • Auto duplex printing
  • Good paper capacity

Cons

  • Toner can be expensive
  • Not the fastest speed
  • Larger footprint

Specifications

Type
Color Laser All-in-One
Connectivity
Wireless
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Paper Capacity
250-Sheet
Features
Auto Duplex
Check Price on Amazon

#6. HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw

HP Color LaserJet Pro 3301sdw
Wireless
Office Ready
Color
Laser Output
Multi-Function
Print Scan Copy
Versatile Office Functions
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
8.8
Functionality
9.0
Ease of Use
8.5
Connectivity
8.7
Check Price on Amazon

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw offers a robust all-in-one solution for your small business needs. You’ll appreciate its vibrant color laser printing and the convenience of wireless connectivity, making it easy to integrate into any office setup. With an automatic document feeder (ADF) and duplex printing, handling multi-page documents for scanning or printing is efficient and straightforward.

While it’s a strong performer for general office tasks, you might find the initial setup slightly more involved than some inkjet models. This printer is ideal if you need a reliable, multi-functional device for consistent color and monochrome output, but perhaps skip it if your primary need is photo-quality printing.

Pros

  • All-in-one functionality
  • Wireless and duplex printing
  • Good for office environments

Cons

  • Laser toner can be costly
  • Initial setup might be complex
  • Not optimized for photos

Specifications

Type
Color Laser Printer
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy
Connectivity
Wireless
Features
ADF, Duplex
Model Number
499Q3F
Check Price on Amazon

#7. Brother Work Smart 1360DW

Brother Work Smart 1360DW
Inkjet
Cost-Effective
Auto
Duplex Printing
Wireless
All-in-One
Inkjet Efficiency
82
OVERALL
SCORE
Ink Efficiency
8.5
Connectivity
8.6
Ease of Use
8.4
Print Quality
8.2
Check Price on Amazon

The Brother Work Smart 1360DW is a versatile wireless color inkjet all-in-one, perfect for small businesses seeking cost-effective printing. You’ll appreciate its automatic duplex printing, which helps conserve paper, and the intuitive 1.8” color display for easy navigation. It’s designed for efficiency, making everyday tasks like printing, scanning, and copying straightforward.

While it offers great value, inkjet printers typically have slower print speeds compared to laser models, which might be a consideration for very high-volume environments. This printer is an excellent choice if you need a feature-rich, budget-friendly all-in-one with good color output, but perhaps not if speed is your absolute top priority.

Pros

  • Cost-effective inkjet
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Intuitive color display

Cons

  • Slower print speeds
  • Ink cartridges need replacing
  • Not for enterprise use

Specifications

Type
Color Inkjet All-in-One
Connectivity
Wireless
Features
Auto Duplex, 1.8” Display
Ink Series
LC501 Series
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Check Price on Amazon

Unlocking Vibrant Business: Your Guide to a Smart Color Printer Purchase

Choosing the right color printer for your small business isn’t just about putting ink on paper; it’s about making a strategic investment in your brand’s image and operational efficiency. A thoughtful selection now can save you headaches and expenses down the line, ensuring your documents always make the right impression.

Key Considerations for a Picture-Perfect Printer

When your business relies on crisp, colorful output, several elements come into play. Focus on these factors to pinpoint the ideal machine for your needs.

  • Print Volume Needs: How many pages do you anticipate printing each month? Printers are designed with different duty cycles, so understanding your typical workload prevents premature wear and tear.
  • Ink or Toner Costs: The initial purchase price is only part of the equation. Research the ongoing cost of replacement cartridges to ensure long-term affordability and avoid sticker shock.
  • Print Quality and Resolution: For marketing materials, presentations, or client-facing documents, color accuracy and sharp detail are paramount. Look for specifications that promise professional-grade output.
  • Connectivity Options: Will you need to print wirelessly from multiple devices, or is a simple USB connection sufficient? Consider network integration, mobile printing apps, and cloud capabilities.
  • Multifunctionality: Do you need scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities in addition to printing? All-in-one devices can consolidate equipment and save valuable office space.
  • Footprint and Design: Small businesses often operate with limited space. Consider the physical dimensions of the printer to ensure it fits comfortably within your office environment.

Traps to Avoid When Acquiring Your Next Printer

Even with careful planning, it’s easy to overlook crucial details. Steer clear of these common missteps to ensure a smooth purchase and integration.

  • Underestimating Ongoing Costs: Focusing solely on the printer’s upfront price without factoring in the recurring expense of consumables can lead to budget surprises.
  • Ignoring Connectivity Requirements: Assuming all printers offer the same wireless or network features can leave you with a machine that doesn’t integrate seamlessly with your existing tech.
  • Overlooking Software Compatibility: Ensure the printer’s drivers and any accompanying software are compatible with your operating systems and frequently used applications.

Your Small Business Color Printing Champion Awaits!

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. If you’re a busy enterprise, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise 5700dn is your powerhouse. For professional-grade color without the fuss, the Xerox C410dn is a solid bet. Hybrid offices and small businesses will love the compact Xerox C245, while the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a cartridge-free dream for home and small offices. The Brother MFC-L3720CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw are fantastic all-in-one laser options, and the Brother Work Smart 1360 is a versatile inkjet pick.

These printers are all stellar choices for small business needs. To snag your perfect match and check the latest deals, hit those buttons above!

Final 3 Picks: Enterprise-Level Performance, Professional High-Speed Printing, and Compact Hybrid Offices

Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.

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