a laser printer in the office

Get Pristine Prints with the 10 Best Cheap Laser Printers

Reviews

If you have lots of pages to print, a laser printer is a perfect tool for the job. Laser printers are able to print much faster than inkjet printers because they use toner to mark the paper instead of ink. Toner is a powder-based medium that is made from plastic. It can be quickly and accurately fused to the paper using a laser. If you’re shopping for a printer for your home, office, or dorm room, chances are you’re a little overwhelmed by your options. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of our favorite cheap laser printers for 2024. Keep reading to find the right printer for you and your budget.

A Quick Guide to Cheap Laser Printers

When shopping for a new printer for your computer, the first choice you should make is what kind of printer you want to buy. There are two kinds of computer printers: laser and inkjet, Here is a brief explanation of how each of the types of work and some advice on choosing the right one for you.

What Kind of Printer Should I Buy?

Inkjet Printer: These printers use small guns to apply droplets of ink to the paper they are printing. The benefits of purchasing an Inkjet printer include lower initial cost and color printing. However, over time, the cost of replacing the ink cartridges make these printers more expensive for users who print large quantities. Inkjet printers are also more likely to be able to accommodate unusual paper sizes.

Laser Printer: Laser printers heat up toner inside a cartridge, allowing it to be fused to the paper you are printing. These printers excel at black-and-white printing, but color laser printers have become much more common and cost-effective in recent years. Laser printers are often a bigger investment upfront, but because toner is much more efficient than ink, high-volume users will usually save money in the long run with a laser printer.

Choosing the Right Laser Printer

With so many similar-looking options, shopping for the right printer can be confusing. Here are the factors we looked at when deciding which laser printers to include on our list:

Black & White vs. Color: For many years, the conventional wisdom was that laser printers were only for monochrome printing. However, more low-cost laser printers like the Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw have become available in recent years.

Performance: In this section of each review, we’ll discuss the specifications and performance of each of the printers on its list. This includes print quality, print speed, and any additional capabilities such as scanning and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Convenience: When picking between printers with similar performance, many users make their choice based on the additional features offered by a printer that makes life easier. Some helpful laser printer convenience features include the ability to use different sized paper and the ability to connect via mobile apps in order to set up and configure your printer.

Best Cheap Laser Printers Under $100

1. Brother HL-L2350DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer

Why we like it: The Brother HL-L2350DW is a small, fast, and cost-efficient laser printer. It produces high-quality prints for an entry-level model.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
Brother Industries is not a new name in the printer market. This Japanese Multinational Company dominates much of the low-cost laser printer market. The Brother HL-L2350DW comes in a small footprint and a future-proofed design.

It supports wireless printing, allowing every computer in the office to be connected, saving you from the problem of having to transfer your documents via USB. It can print via Google Chrome Print, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Brother iPrint&Scan, and an array of other platforms.

This printer connects over Wi-Fi Direct, standard Wi-Fi, and also USB to a computer. It has a 250-sheet print capacity while printing up to 32 pages per minute. It supports automatic duplex printing, saving you from manually turning papers. It is way faster compared to our other picks, like the Samsung Xpress M2835DW, which manages just 29 ppm.

Convenience
Brother HL-L2350DW produces quality black prints thanks to its 600 dpi resolution. This feature makes it useful in a standard office environment where you only need to print in one color. It works well with reports and invoices for beautiful grayscale prints, but its not great when it comes to graphics quality.

The operation costs for this printer are not the best owing to its 10,000 pages of monthly print volume. But it can print different sizes of paper with no problem. Here, you are looking at A4, A3, A5, B6, B5, and envelopes. It has a bypass tray to handle all your different paper needs.

Verdict
Brother HL-L2350DW is a budget-friendly laser printer ideal for small desk spaces. It will give you quality prints and average print capacity. If it had a high print volume per month, it would be easier to run at a low cost. Nevertheless, you will like that it has wireless connectivity and fast print speeds for added convenience in a small office.

Pros
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Uses high-yield Brother cartridges
  • Supports wireless printing technology and a Hi-Speed USB connection
  • Can print on plain paper, envelopes, and labels
  • Setup is quick with Windows and Mac computers
Cons
  • It has a lower than average graphics quality

2. HP LaserJet Pro M15w Wireless Laser Printer

Why we like it: The world’s smallest budget laser printer, the HP LaserJet Pro M15w Wireless Laser Printer is 35% smaller than the average laser printer.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The HP LaserJet Pro M15w Wireless Laser Printer is designed with space-saving space in mind. Measuring only 7.5 inches from front to back, this printer can produce 19 pages per minute in high quality. This is a little slower than most of the other printers we reviewed, but only slightly.

There are very few controls located on the printer itself, which means that users wishing to fine-tune their printer’s settings will need to use the HP smartphone app in order to do so. The small profile of this printer makes it a good option for places where space is limited like offices and dorm rooms.

Convenience
Because of this printer’s reliance on the HP app for basic functions and setup, the learning curve of using the HP LaserJet Pro M15w Wireless Laser Printer is a little steeper than most other choices, especially for users who are not keen on controlling their devices using smartphone apps. However, moving these functions to the app rather than the control panel of the printer itself is what makes it so small.

Verdict
The HP LaserJet Pro M15w Wireless Laser Printer is an inexpensive and compact printer that is perfect for users with space restrictions. This printer is only slightly slower than full-sized alternatives. There are very few drawbacks for those who don’t mind controlling their printer’s options and settings using their smartphones.

Pros
  • Most compact budget laser printer available
  • Only 7.5 inches from front to back
  • Ideal for dorm rooms or other locations with limited space
Cons
  • Relies heavily on the HP ePrint app for setup and settings adjustments

3. Pantum M6552NW Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer

Why we like it: A laser printer, scanner, and copy machine in one, the Pantum M6552NW Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer has the look and functionality of a high-end laser printer at a budget-friendly price.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The Pantum M6552NW Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer prints at 22 pages per minute and features a sleek design that is sure to fit nicely in any work area. The 1200 * 1200 resolution is enough for most purposes, but users who require ultra-high-definition printing capacity will want to upgrade to a more expensive model.

The paper tray accepts both standard-sized and legal-sized paper and holds 150 sheets at once. There is a manual-feed tray on the printer lid that allows envelopes, cardstock, and other unique printing jobs.

Convenience
This inexpensive laser printer and scanner combo is a convenient choice for a dorm room, home office, or small office with 2-3 workers. The controls on the front of the printer are easy to use and the Pantum App makes it easy to print with a smartphone or tablet. We also appreciate that Pantum only packages the essentials with their printers, a welcome change from the bloated software packages included with most larger brands. However, customer service can take longer to respond to support tickets.

Verdict
The sleek design and impressive capabilities of the Pantum M6552NW Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer make it feel like a much more expensive model. We recommend it to anyone looking for a printer/scanner combo at an affordable price.

Pros
  • Has lots of features and functions normally only found in more expensive printers
  • Sleek and compact design
  • Manual-feed tray allows users to print envelopes, cardstock, etc.
Cons
  • Customer support can be slow to respond

4. Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer

Why we like it: The Brother HL-L2300D Monochrome Laser Printer is a good choice for personal use and users with limited desktop space. This printer has several features that help save toner.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
Brother HL-L2300D is another entry-level laser printer that comes at a friendly price. It prints decent blacks and excellent graphics for most office needs. This printer is quick to set up and easy to use thanks to the clear starting instructions and simple installation software.

Brother HL-L2300D has a print quality that is exceptional for office documents. It has a first-print-out-speed of 8.5 seconds. While other printers need up to 15 minutes, with this one, you will be printing as soon as it is powered up. You will also find it comfortable to use in a quiet office. This is because the only noise it produces is a humming sound when it is printing.
This printer is compatible with all Windows versions from XP and Mac OS X versions from 10.7.5. It will connect to your PC via a hi-speed USB 2.0 port.

Note that it does not support Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity. This means it cannot be shared with other computers or support mobile printing over Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint. But with hi-speed USB, you will be sending documents for printing at decent speeds. You also get a variety of print options from duplex printing, print output resolution, reducing paper curl, or toner saving mode.

Convenience
This printer has a 250-sheet capacity and a recommended monthly print volume of 10,000 pages. It has print speeds of up to 27 pages per minute, which is what you need when you want to complete workloads faster and projects on time. Its fast speeds also indicate that you can share it with a few co-workers.

Brother cares for your printing costs by providing high-yield toner cartridges that can print up to 2,600 pages. Its duplex printing and toner-save mode come in handy to bring the running costs even lower. For a small office, it is the missing equipment you need to bring your operating costs down.

Overall
Brother HL-L2300D is a simple yet quality laser printer. You will love its speeds, print quality, and overall print volume. It has impeccable paper handling as well as being heavy duty for personal needs. If you want low operation costs and reliability in a laser printer, this model is ideal for you.

Pros
  • Prints high-resolution documents and photos up to 2400 x 600 dpi
  • Can print at fast speeds of up to 27ppm
  • Offers automatic duplex printing and toner saving mode
Cons
  • It can be tricky to perform some of the functions like resetting the drum print

5. HP LaserJet Pro M102w Wireless Laser Printer

Why we like it: The HP LaserJet Pro M102w is an affordable monochrome laser printer that integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The HP LaserJet Pro M102w Wireless Laser Printer is a compact printer with a capacity of 150 sheets. Using the free HP ePrint app, users can configure their printers, adjust settings, and print right from their mobile devices or tablets. The printing speed of 23 pages per minute is reasonable for a low-cost model and can handle small to medium-sized printing jobs quickly.

There are minimal controls on the printer itself, so users are expected to use the app in order to configure this printer and adjust settings. The paper tray only accepts regular-sized paper, so users needing to print on legal-sized paper, envelopes, and other less-common sizes will want to look elsewhere.

Convenience
Thanks to the HP ePrint app, setting up the HP LaserJet Pro M102w Wireless Laser Printer is quick and easy. Thanks to the wireless direct printing feature, you can print using a wireless device, even when you are not on the same network. Our favorite convenience feature on this printer is the integration with Amazon’s Alexa. The ability to turn the printer on or off with a voice command can be very convenient, especially when using a device that is not in the same room as the printer.

Verdict
Even though it is priced slightly higher than $100, we felt the HP LaserJet Pro M102w Wireless Laser Printer belonged on this list because it provides a lot of productivity at a low price. We think it’s a good bargain for users who do not mind having to rely on the HP ePrint app.

Pros
  • Fast printing speed and large capacity for a budget laser printer
  • Integration with Amazon Alexa voice assistant
  • Direct wireless printing makes it easy for guests to print without joining any Wi-Fi network
Cons
  • Only accepts regular-sized printer paper

Best Cheap Laser Printers Under $200

1. Brother MFC-L2750DW Monochrome All-In-One Wireless Laser Printer

Why we like it: The Brother MFC-L2750DW Monochrome All-In-One Wireless Laser Printer is a multipurpose printer that offers lots of possibilities at a budget price. It is our favorite monochrome laser printer for average-sized offices.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The Brother MFC-L2750 has many functions that could rank it in the high-end category of laser printers. Being a monochrome model, you will appreciate the quality of the prints as every font from the smallest to the graphics are all readable and amazing.

It does an excellent job of balancing out the features since it also has options for scanning, faxing, copying, and automatic duplex printing. You will like that it supports wireless printing for networked computers and from mobile devices. It has a 50-sheet automatic document feeder meaning it can be ideal for regular scanning and copying jobs that won’t be annoying since you won’t be feeding documents one by one.

The MFC-L2750DW can print with speeds of 36ppm. It is pretty fast considering it is as compact as they get in the under $200 range.

Convenience
This printer has average printing costs as it can manage 3.75 cents per page. These costs are consistent with the standard toner that yields around 1,200 pages. When you want to bring your costs even lower, a high-yield toner will do exactly that by providing up to 3,000 pages. It translates to 2.7 cents per page.

Verdict
Brother MFC-L2750 is a unique laser printer that will give you real value for your investment. It fits in a busy office where printing is not the primary purpose of owning a printer. You can fax, scan, and copy documents allowing you to achieve more from one printer.

Pros
  • Automatic duplex printing
  • Supports Wi-Fi and NFC printing
  • Toner saver mode
Cons
  • Slow when scanning in color

2. Brother DCPL2550DW Monochrome Laser Printer

Why we like it: A slightly upgraded version of another printer on the list, the Brother DCPL2550DW Monochrome Laser Printer features an upgraded manual feed slot that makes it easier to print envelopes and other unusually sized paper.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The Brother DCPL2550DW Monochrome Laser Printer features a very fast 36 pages per minute print speed. It also features a scanner that saves images to a local computer, mobile device or simply makes copies. The auto-document feeder at the top can hold up to 50 sheets of cardstock or envelopes. The main paper tray can load both standard and legal-sized paper and holds up to 250 sheets at once. Brother printers have also won the “Business Choice” award from PCmag for 5 years in a row.

Convenience
The main reason to upgrade to the Brother DCPL2550DW Monochrome Laser Printer is for the upgraded manual feed paper slot on the top. This is especially helpful for businesses or individuals who need to print more than one or two envelopes at a time. This printer is easy to set up and allows wireless printing from mobile phones and tablets as well as laptops and desktop computers. There is also an ethernet port and a USB input.

Verdict
A great choice for users who print a lot of pages, the Brother DCPL2550DW Monochrome Laser Printer can finish large jobs quickly. The automatic 2-sided printing and low-toner mode do a great job of conserving both toner and paper. The manual-feed slot makes it easy to print envelopes, business cards, and more in bulk.

Pros
  • Prints 36 pages per minute
  • Has won the “Business Choice” award from PCmag 5 years running.
  • Includes features that conserve ink and paper.
Cons
  • Black and white printing only

3. Best Cheap Color Laser Printer: Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw

Why we like it: The Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw is an easy-to-use color laser printer that excels when doing lots of small jobs. The all-in-one toner cartridge makes replacing the ink easy as well.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: Yes

Performance
With a small footprint and lots of productivity features, the Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw lets you print full-color images on both sides of the paper. This printer was designed with small businesses in mind and can handle the average day-to-day printing needs of around 5 employees. The paper tray is large and capable of holding up to 250 sheets of standard-sized paper. There is also an adapter allowing you to use legal-sized paper. The print speed of this model is average, printing 22 pages per minute.

Convenience
Our favorite feature of the Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw is how quickly it warms up and begins printing. With only a 10.3 second delay, this is one of the fastest-starting laser printers we reviewed. This is especially convenient for businesses and homes that are regularly printing just a few pages at a time. The printer is easy to set up using a variety of devices, but the on-screen interface is a little confusing and there are several seemingly unnecessary buttons on the control panel.

Verdict
The Canon Color Image CLASS LBP622Cdw is a good fit for small offices, homes, and college dorms that require low to mid-volume of color printing. The speedy start-up time when printing begins also makes it ideal for sharing by small teams. The removable adapter for legal paper is slightly awkward to use, so users who plan on doing a lot of printing on legal-sized paper should probably choose another option.

Pros
  • Great-looking color printing at a good price
  • Begins printing very quickly after the command is issued
  • Great for homes and small businessesIncludes features that conserve ink and paper.
Cons
  • The interface is a little confusing
  • Requires removable adapter to use legal-sized paper in the tray

4. Brother HLL2390DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer

Why we like it: With lots of productivity features, this speedy black-and-white laser printer features a large paper capacity which means fewer refills.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: No

Performance
The Brother HLL2390DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer has a flatbed-style scanner and can also scan directly from mobile devices connected by Wi-Fi. It has a speed of 32 pages per minute and has room for 250 sheets of paper in the tray. This printer can use both letter-sized and legal-sized paper in the tray. Using the manual-feed slot, this printer will also allow you to print envelopes, card stock, and more. There is a toner-save mode for printing with reduced toner usage.

Convenience
The Brother HLL2390DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer’s speed makes it a great choice for users who will be doing lots of black and white printing. There are lots of convenient options for getting documents to this printer. You can connect via Wi-Fi using a computer or mobile device, plug in with a USB cable, or print directly from a USB thumb drive. The interface is easy to use and works quickly. Users who want to print a lot and conserve paper will appreciate the automatic 2-sided printing.

Verdict
With high-definition printing and lightning-fast printing speed, the Brother HLL2390DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer is one of our favorite inexpensive laser printers for productivity. This is an especially good printer for small offices and teachers.

Pros
  • Prints up to 32 pages per minute
  • Paper tray holds up to 250 sheets at a time
  • Automatic 2-sided printing and toner-save mode for conserving paper and ink.
  • Includes flatbed-style scanner
Cons
  • Only prints in black and white

5. Brother HL-L3210CW Compact Digital Color Printer

Why we like it: The Brother HL-L3210CW Compact Digital Color Printer is an affordable laser printer that makes a big impression with rich, vivid colors.

Editor’s Rating:

Color: Yes

Performance
The Brother HL-L3210CW Compact Digital Color Printer combines the crisp, vibrant color usually seen only in inkjet printers with the high-capacity and quick printing speed of a laser printer. This printer offers a 19 page per minute print speed which is slower than most of the other printers we looked like. There is a manual-feed slot located on the top that lets users insert card stock, envelopes, and more for easy printing.

Convenience
Thanks to the large tray that holds 250 sheets of standard or legal-sized paper, most users will be able to go for a long time without having to worry about refilling the tray. The single-line display on the printer can make adjusting settings on the printer itself difficult, so we recommend you use the Brother smartphone or tablet app for making quick changes to the printer settings and configuration. This app also makes it easy to print from your smartphone or tablet With 4 separate toner cartridges required for color printing, replacing the toner in this printer can be expensive.

Verdict
Even though it’s one of the most expensive laser printers on our list, the Brother HL-L3210CW Compact Digital Color Printer provides excellent print-quality and vibrant color for a reasonable price. We highly recommend installing the free smartphone app when setting up this printer.

Pros
  • High print quality combined with bright vibrant colors
  • Included smartphone app makes setup and mobile printing easy
  • Large capacity in the paper tray
Cons
  • Replacing color toner cartridges can be an expensive hassle
  • Slower print speed than other printers we reviewed