Finding the best laser printer for a small business involves balancing speed, cost, and functionality. The Brother DCP-L2640DW stands out as the best overall because of its versatility and reliable performance. For those prioritizing cost-efficiency, the HP LaserJet M110w offers a budget-friendly, compact solution. Meanwhile, the HP LaserJet Pro M501dn is ideal for high-volume printing with its fast speed and durability. Each option involves tradeoffs: some excel in features but cost more, while others are more affordable but less versatile. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these choices and which one suits your small business best.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranking models balance print speed, cost per page, and ease of use, making them suitable for busy small business environments.
- Multi-function capabilities like copying and scanning are common in the best all-in-one options, but often come at a higher price point.
- Wireless and mobile printing features are standard in many picks, supporting flexible office workflows.
- Higher-end models focus on durability and faster output, ideal for high-volume printing, but are more expensive upfront.
- Budget models are compact and affordable but may lack advanced features like duplex printing or extensive connectivity options.
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing |  | Best Overall for Small Business Efficiency | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best Value for High-Volume Black-and-White Printing | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Connectivity: Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB 2.0 | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro M501dn Duplex Printer with One-Year Next-Business Day Onsite Warranty |  | Best for High-Volume, Security-Conscious Small Businesses | Print Technology: Laser | Color: Black and White | Duplex Printing: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Enterprise M406dn Monochrome Printer with Ethernet & Duplex Printing |  | Best for Secure, Fast Office Printing | Print Speed: 42 ppm | Connectivity: Ethernet | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing |  | Best Compact Budget-Friendly Choice | Print Speed: 30 ppm | Connectivity: Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2480DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Copy and Scan |  | Best Compact All-in-One for Small Spaces | Print Speed: 36 ppm | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer |  | Best for Fast, Professional-Quality Small Team Work | Print Speed: up to 35 ppm | Functions: Print, Scan, Copy | Duplex Printing: Auto 2-sided | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer |  | Best Smallest Laser for Solo or Very Small Teams | Print Speed: Up to 21 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wireless, mobile printing | Compatibility: Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| laser printer for small business | Print Speed | Connectivity | Functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB | Print, Scan, Copy, Duplex |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | 36 ppm | Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB 2.0 | — |
| HP LaserJet Pro M501dn Duplex | — | — | — |
| HP LaserJet Enterprise M406dn | 42 ppm | Ethernet | — |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | 30 ppm | Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB | — |
| Brother HL-L2480DW Wireless Mo | 36 ppm | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | up to 35 ppm | Wireless | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Bla | Up to 21 pages per minute | Wireless, mobile printing | Print only |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
This model stands out for combining fast printing and versatile functionality in a compact form, making it ideal for small offices that need a reliable all-in-one device. Compared to the Brother HL-L2460DW, it offers similar speed but adds scanning and copying, which can streamline workflows. However, its monochrome-only output limits use cases where color is needed. The wireless and Ethernet options support flexible setups, and mobile printing simplifies task management. The main tradeoff is that it requires compatible toner replacements, and its all-in-one design can be slightly larger than single-function printers. For small businesses prioritizing space and multifunctionality, this pick offers a well-rounded solution.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds suitable for busy workflows
- Multiple connectivity options including wireless, Ethernet, and USB
- Compact design saves valuable office space
- Mobile printing support simplifies device management
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only, restricting color needs
- Requires compatible toner replacements, which can add to ongoing costs
Best for: Small businesses needing a versatile, space-saving device with printing, scanning, and copying capabilities.
Not ideal for: Businesses requiring color printing or high-volume document management with color output, as this model is monochrome only.
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy, Duplex
Our verdict“This all-in-one monochrome printer is perfect for small offices seeking efficiency and space-saving features without color printing needs.”
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
This printer makes the most sense for small teams that frequently print large volumes, thanks to its 36 ppm speed and 250-sheet paper tray. Unlike the DCP-L2640DW, it emphasizes high-volume capacity with fewer multifunction features, focusing on straightforward black-and-white output. Its automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste and saves costs over time, but the need to enroll in a toner subscription for savings can be inconvenient for some. Its wireless and Ethernet options support flexible office setups, though it lacks scanning or copying functions, which might limit its appeal for some small businesses. Overall, this model is a cost-effective choice for heavy black-and-white printing with minimal fuss.
Pros:- High-speed printing at 36 pages per minute
- Large 250-sheet paper capacity reduces refills
- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and costs
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity for flexibility
Cons:- Requires enrollment in toner subscription service for savings
- Limited to monochrome printing only, no scanning or copying
Best for: Small businesses with high-volume printing needs and minimal multifunction requirements.
Not ideal for: Offices that require scanning or copying capabilities, as this model focuses solely on printing.
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Connectivity:Wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB 2.0
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Supported Toner Models:TN830, TN830XL
- Energy Star Certified:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for small teams who prioritize high-volume, cost-efficient black-and-white printing with minimal additional features.”
HP LaserJet Pro M501dn Duplex Printer with One-Year Next-Business Day Onsite Warranty
This model is tailored for offices with demanding print volumes, offering a massive 650-sheet capacity and fast duplex speeds. Compared to the Brother options, it emphasizes high capacity and security, making it suitable for sensitive documents. Its lack of wireless connectivity might be a drawback for flexible network setups, but its built-in security features and robust warranty provide peace of mind. The larger footprint can be an issue in tighter spaces, and the monochrome-only output limits versatility. For businesses with high-volume, security-sensitive needs that don’t rely heavily on wireless features, this printer provides reliable, long-term performance.
Pros:- High sheet capacity of 650 pages for demanding workloads
- Fast duplex printing speeds
- Built-in security features enhance data protection
- One-year next-business day onsite warranty
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, restricting color use
- No wireless connectivity, reducing setup flexibility
- Potentially large footprint for small offices
Best for: Small offices handling large document volumes that prioritize security and reliability over wireless convenience.
Not ideal for: Small businesses needing wireless connectivity or color printing, as this model is Ethernet-only and monochrome.
- Print Technology:Laser
- Color:Black and White
- Duplex Printing:Yes
- Sheet Capacity:650 sheets
- Warranty:One-year, Next-Business Day, Onsite
Our verdict“This high-capacity, security-oriented printer suits offices with large print volumes and security concerns, but lacks wireless options for flexible network access.”
HP LaserJet Enterprise M406dn Monochrome Printer with Ethernet & Duplex Printing
This printer emphasizes speed and security for small to medium-sized offices that primarily print in black and white. With a high speed of 42 ppm and a 2.7-inch color display, it offers straightforward management. Compared to the HP M501dn, it lacks the same high capacity but compensates with faster output and enhanced security features like HP Wolf Enterprise Security. Its Ethernet-only connectivity may limit flexibility, but it’s suitable where wired network setup is standard. The basic display simplifies operation, though it’s less feature-rich than more advanced models. This pick makes sense for offices prioritizing quick, secure printing over multifunction capabilities or wireless connectivity.
Pros:- Fast printing speed of 42 pages per minute
- Built-in Ethernet for reliable network access
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper usage
- Enhanced security with HP Wolf Enterprise Security
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color options
- No wireless connectivity support, less flexible network setup
- Basic 2.7-inch display may limit ease of use
Best for: Small to medium-sized offices needing fast, secure monochrome printing via wired networks.
Not ideal for: Offices requiring wireless connectivity or multifunction features like scanning and copying.
- Print Speed:42 ppm
- Connectivity:Ethernet
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Display:2.7-inch color display
- Security:HP Wolf Enterprise Security
Our verdict“This model delivers high-speed, secure monochrome printing ideal for wired office environments focusing on speed and data protection.”
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing
This model makes a solid case for small offices or home setups that need reliable black-and-white printing without extra frills. Its 30 ppm speed is sufficient for moderate workloads, and its wireless options include dual-band Wi-Fi, which supports mobile printing from multiple devices. Compared with the Brother HL-L2460DW, it’s more affordable and smaller but offers slightly lower speed and paper capacity. Its 250-sheet tray is adequate for small-volume environments, though the lack of duplex printing may increase paper costs over time. Support for toner subscription services adds convenience but might not be ideal for those seeking the lowest ongoing costs. Overall, this printer balances affordability with essential features for light-duty work.
Pros:- Decent print speed at 30 pages per minute
- Wireless dual-band Wi-Fi supports mobile printing
- Large 250-sheet paper tray minimizes refills
- Affordable toner subscription support
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing, no color option
- No automatic duplexing, more manual effort
- Limited to single-sided printing
Best for: Small offices or home-based businesses with modest printing needs and limited space.
Not ideal for: High-volume environments or companies needing duplex printing and advanced security features.
- Print Speed:30 ppm
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi (dual-band), USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Printer Type:Monochrome laser
- Included:Refresh subscription trial
Our verdict“A practical, budget-conscious monochrome laser printer suited for small-scale office or home use with simple wireless features.”
Brother HL-L2480DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Copy and Scan
This model stands out for its compact size, making it an excellent choice for small offices or home setups where space is limited. Compared with the HP LaserJet M110w, it offers a faster print speed of 36 ppm and more versatile functions like copying and scanning, but it lacks automatic document feeding and is limited to monochrome printing. Its support for wireless, Ethernet, and mobile printing ensures flexible connectivity, which is ideal for small teams that need reliable, multi-function capabilities without extra bulk. The absence of an automatic document feeder means manual handling for multi-page scans or copies, which may slow down workflow. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for small business owners who prioritize space-saving design combined with all-in-one functionality.
Pros:- Compact design fits small workspaces
- Fast print speed of 36 ppm for quick jobs
- Supports mobile printing and cloud services
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper use
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- No automatic document feeder for multi-page scanning or copying
Best for: Small businesses or home offices needing a space-efficient, multi-function device with fast monochrome printing
Not ideal for: Businesses that require color printing or automatic document feeding for high-volume tasks
- Print Speed:36 ppm
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Touchscreen:2.7 inches
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
Our verdict“This is an ideal choice for small offices that want a space-saving, all-in-one monochrome laser printer with reliable wireless connectivity.”
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer
This printer makes the most sense for small teams that need fast, reliable black-and-white document handling with the convenience of an all-in-one device. Compared to the Brother HL-L2480DW, it offers a similar 35 ppm print speed but adds an automatic 50-sheet document feeder and duplexing, which can significantly streamline multi-page workflows. However, it requires cartridges with HP chips or circuitry, which might complicate cartridge replacements or cause compatibility issues after firmware updates. Its wireless capability supports seamless access across team devices, and its robust performance for professional documents makes it suitable for small businesses with higher printing demands. The tradeoff is that it’s limited to black-and-white output, so it’s not suitable for color needs. Overall, this model is best suited for small teams that prioritize speed and efficiency over color printing or multifunction versatility.
Pros:- Fast printing speed of up to 35 ppm
- Includes automatic duplex printing and 50-sheet ADF
- Wireless connectivity supports team sharing
- Reliable performance for professional documents
Cons:- Requires cartridges with HP chips or circuitry
- Limited to black-and-white printing
- Potential firmware updates may affect cartridge compatibility
Best for: Small teams needing fast, reliable monochrome printing with document copying and scanning
Not ideal for: Small businesses that require color printing or broader multifunction features beyond document handling
- Print Speed:up to 35 ppm
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
- Duplex Printing:Auto 2-sided
- Input Tray Capacity:250 sheets
- Auto Document Feeder:50 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless
Our verdict“This is a strong choice for small teams that need fast monochrome output with efficient multi-page document handling.”
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer
This model is tailored for individuals or tiny teams of 1-3 people who need a compact, easy-to-use laser printer. While it offers a slower speed of 21 ppm compared to larger models, its small footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, and its straightforward wireless setup ensures quick deployment. Unlike the other two options, it’s designed solely for monochrome printing and lacks scanning or copying functions, which limits its versatility. Its compatibility with mobile printing from various devices like AirPrint and Google Cloud Print simplifies daily tasks. The main tradeoff is its limited capacity and slower speed, which may cause delays with higher-volume workloads. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for sole proprietors or very small teams seeking a reliable, space-saving device for basic black-and-white printing on demand.
Pros:- Compact size fits any workspace
- Fast black & white printing up to 21 ppm
- Easy wireless setup and mobile printing support
- Affordable for small budgets
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing only
- Requires original HP cartridges with chips
- Designed for small-volume use only
Best for: Single users or very small teams needing a reliable, compact printer for occasional monochrome printing
Not ideal for: Small businesses that require scanning, copying, or higher volume throughput
- Print Speed:Up to 21 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, mobile printing
- Compatibility:Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook
- Size:Smallest laser in its class
- Functions:Print only
Our verdict“This is a perfect pick for solo entrepreneurs or very small teams needing a reliable, space-efficient printer for basic black-and-white jobs.”
How We Picked
These printers were evaluated based on performance, print quality, operational costs, and ease of setup and use. We prioritized models that offer reliable daily operation for small business needs, including speed and multifunction capabilities. Cost of ownership, including toner efficiency and maintenance, was also a key factor. The ranking reflects a combination of overall value, feature set, and suitability for small business environments—balancing affordability with essential functionalities. Devices that excelled in multiple categories and offered consistent performance earned higher positions, while tradeoffs like higher prices or limited features placed some models lower.| laser printer for small business | Functions |
|---|---|
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Print, Scan, Copy, Duplex |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | — |
| HP LaserJet Pro M501dn Duplex | — |
| HP LaserJet Enterprise M406dn | — |
| Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Mon | — |
| Brother HL-L2480DW Wireless Mo | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wi | Print, Scan, Copy |
| HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Bla | Print only |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Laser Printer For Small Business
Choosing the right laser printer for your small business requires considering several factors beyond just initial cost. Understanding your volume needs, connectivity preferences, and long-term operational costs can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your investment pays off. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision.Print Volume and Speed
Assess how many pages your business prints daily to determine the necessary speed and capacity. High-volume environments benefit from models with faster print rates and larger toner cartridges, reducing downtime and cost per page. Underestimating your needs can lead to frequent refills and slower throughput, hampering productivity.
Cost of Ownership
Beyond the purchase price, consider toner costs, maintenance, and energy consumption. Some models have high-yield toner options that lower ongoing costs, but upfront prices may be higher. A cheaper printer might seem appealing initially but could be more expensive over time due to frequent toner replacements or repairs.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Look for models that support wireless, Ethernet, and mobile printing if your team needs flexibility. Compatibility with your existing devices and operating systems is critical to seamless workflow. Overlooking this aspect can lead to frustration and productivity loss, especially in small teams relying on multiple devices.
Features and Functionality
Decide if you need multifunction features like scanning, copying, or duplex printing. While these add convenience, they often increase cost and complexity. For small businesses with straightforward printing needs, a simpler model might be more cost-effective and easier to operate.
Size and Placement
Consider your available space. Compact models save room but may sacrifice speed or capacity. Conversely, larger units often support higher workloads but need dedicated space. Proper placement ensures easy access and smooth operation without cluttering your workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I expect to spend on a good laser printer for small business?
Prices vary based on features and capacity, but a solid small business laser printer typically costs between $200 and $600. Budget models are suitable for light use, while higher-end options with faster speeds, multifunction capabilities, and extended toner yields tend to fall into the $400–$600 range. Consider long-term operational costs, as investing a bit more upfront often results in lower maintenance and toner expenses over time.
Is a color laser printer necessary for my small business?
Most small businesses find monochrome laser printers sufficient unless color printing is essential for branding or marketing materials. Color models are significantly more expensive and have higher toner costs, so unless color is a frequent requirement, a monochrome printer provides better value and faster printing speeds for standard documents.
Can I replace toner cartridges myself, and how often will I need to do it?
Many laser printers are designed for easy toner replacement, and most users can do it without special tools. The frequency depends on your print volume; high-volume printers with high-yield cartridges will need fewer replacements. For small businesses with moderate printing needs, cartridges can last several months, reducing downtime and maintenance hassle.
Are wireless printers secure enough for small business use?
Wireless printers can be secure if configured correctly, with features like WPA encryption, secure Wi-Fi setup, and firmware updates. It’s important to change default passwords and restrict access to authorized users. Proper security measures safeguard sensitive business documents and prevent unauthorized access, making wireless printers a viable choice for small offices.
What’s the best way to estimate my total cost of ownership?
Start by calculating your expected monthly print volume and then determine the toner yield of potential models. Include costs for replacement toner, maintenance, and energy consumption. Comparing these figures across models helps identify the most cost-effective option over its lifespan, preventing surprises and ensuring your small business stays within budget.
Conclusion
For most small businesses, the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers the best balance of features, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making it the ideal choice for general use. If you prioritize affordability and compactness, the HP LaserJet M110w provides a straightforward, budget-friendly solution, especially for light workloads. Companies with high-volume needs and robust workflows should consider the HP LaserJet Pro M501dn for its durability and speed. Beginners or those with minimal printing requirements will find the simple setup of the HP LaserJet M110w most suitable. For businesses seeking advanced features like duplex printing and multifunction capabilities, models like the Brother HL-L2480DW or HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw are worth considering. Ultimately, your choice should align with your volume, budget, and feature priorities to ensure smooth and cost-effective printing for your small business.
