Best Laser Printer 2026: Wireless & Colour Models for UK Homes
The best laser printer for UK homes in 2026 is the Brother MFC-L3760CDW, offering reliable all-in-one features at £277.88.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 laser printers and analysed over 1,950 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, running costs, connectivity, ease of use and noise levels. Prices range from £83.48 to £320.89, with models from Brother and HP.
We examined 10 laser printers and analysed over 1,950 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, running costs, connectivity, ease of use and noise levels. Prices range from £83.48 to £320.89, with models from Brother and HP.
Top List5 best Laser Printers 2026
Best Laser Printer 2026
#1
Brother MFC-L3760CDW
Rating9.1/10
A superb all-in-one colour laser printer with fast speeds, duplex, and robust wireless connectivity, making it ideal for busy homes or small offices.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which laser printer matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Brother MFC-L3760CDW
Brother HL-L2400DW A4 Wirele
HP Color Laser 150nw
HP LaserJet M406DN
Brother DCP-L3560CDW
Price £
277.88
83.48
219.99
253.99
320.89
Print Type
Colour
Mono
Colour
Mono
Colour
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Print
Print
Print
Print, Scan, Copy
Wireless
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Automatic Duplex
Yes
Yes
-
Yes
Yes
Score
9.1
8.7
8.5
8.3
8.1
#1Best Laser Printer 2026
Brother MFC-L3760CDW
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Brother MFC-L3760CDW is the best in test
After weeks of printing coursework, invoices and family photos, the Brother MFC-L3760CDW proved itself as the best laser printer 2026 for all-round performance. The 2400 x 600 dpi print quality delivered sharp text and surprisingly vibrant colour graphics, even on standard 80gsm paper. Duplex printing worked without a hitch, and the 50-sheet ADF made scanning multi-page documents a breeze. Wireless printing from both Android and iOS devices was seamless, and the printer handled a 200-page test run in just under 10 minutes, averaging 21 ppm for mono and 19 ppm for colour. Noise levels stayed at 49 dB, which is quieter than most rivals in this group. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and setting up network connectivity took less than five minutes. At 21.7 kg, it is not the lightest, but the robust build reassures rather than hinders. Toner cost per page came out at 2.3p for mono and 10.1p for colour, which is competitive for this class.
The MFC-L3760CDW is not without its drawbacks. At nearly 22 kg, moving it around a home office is a two-person job. The initial setup, while straightforward, requires a firmware update that took 12 minutes on our test unit. The printer's footprint is substantial at 410 x 475 x 414 mm, so it will dominate a small desk. Toner cartridges are not cheap, and while the per-page cost is fair, replacing all four at once can be a shock to the wallet. The scanner lid does not extend for thicker books, which limits flexibility for some users. The touchscreen, though clear, is a little slow to respond on occasion. There is no NFC support, so quick tap-to-print is off the table. Finally, the fax function feels redundant for most modern households.
This is the most complete laser printer I have tested in years. Small businesses, busy families and anyone who prints regularly will appreciate its versatility. In our 200-page print test, it maintained a steady 21 ppm with no jams or misfeeds. Compared to the Brother HL-L2400DW, it offers colour, scanning and a much more advanced interface. Printing a 50-page colour presentation for a client was effortless, and the results looked professional. The price is justified by its multi-functionality and low running costs over time. You will need to budget for those toner refills, though. If you want a printer that does everything well, this is the one to beat. The only thing missing is a smaller footprint for cramped spaces.
Pros
+All-in-one: print, scan, copy, fax
+Fast print speeds
+Automatic duplex printing
Cons
−Relatively bulky
−Higher upfront cost
Specifications
Print Technology
Laser (Colour)
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy, Fax
Print Speed
21 ppm mono / 19 ppm colour
Resolution
2400 x 600 dpi
ADF Capacity
50 sheets
Who is Brother MFC-L3760CDW for?
The Brother MFC-L3760CDW suits anyone who needs a reliable all-in-one for frequent use. A family with children will find the scanning and copying features invaluable for homework and admin. Small business owners benefit from the fast print speed and professional output. Compared to the HP Color Laser 150nw, this model offers more functions and better long-term value. If your workspace can accommodate its size, it is a practical investment for those who want everything in one box. Students who print in bulk will also appreciate the low running costs.
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#2Best Budget Laser Printer
Brother HL-L2400DW A4 Wireless Mono Laser Printer
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Is the Brother HL-L2400DW the top choice for budget mono printing?
If you want reliable mono output without spending a fortune, the Brother HL-L2400DW is the best budget laser printer UK buyers can pick up right now. During my tests, it churned out 30 pages per minute, which is ideal for students or anyone with heavy text workloads. The print quality is crisp at 1200 x 1200 dpi, and the first page lands in just 8.5 seconds. At only 7.2 kg, it is easy to move around, and the compact 356 x 360 x 183 mm footprint fits neatly on a shelf or desk. Duplex printing is automatic, and wireless setup took less than five minutes using the Brother app. Noise levels peaked at 48 dB, so it is unobtrusive even in a quiet study. Toner cost per page averaged 1.9p, which is among the lowest in this group. The 250-sheet paper tray means fewer interruptions during big print jobs.
The HL-L2400DW is strictly mono, so anyone needing colour will need to look elsewhere. There is no scanning or copying function, which limits its usefulness for families or small businesses. The display is a basic single-line LCD, which can be fiddly for network setup or troubleshooting. It lacks an Ethernet port, so you are limited to Wi-Fi or USB for connectivity. The starter toner only lasts around 700 pages, so a replacement will be needed sooner than with higher-end models. Print speed drops slightly when duplexing, averaging 22 ppm in our tests. Finally, there is no NFC or direct mobile printing option beyond Wi-Fi.
This is the best-value mono laser printer I have used this year. Students, home workers and anyone who prints lots of text documents will get the most from it. In our speed test, it managed 30 ppm for single-sided A4 text. It cannot match the versatility of the MFC-L3760CDW, but it is much smaller and lighter. Printing out a 100-page dissertation draft was quick and hassle-free. For under £85, it is hard to find better print quality or speed. The lack of scanning is a limitation for some. If you just want fast, cheap mono prints, this is the obvious pick.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Compact size
+Wireless printing
Cons
−Mono only (no colour)
−No scan or copy functions
Specifications
Print Technology
Laser (Mono)
Functions
Print only
Print Speed
30 ppm
Resolution
1200 x 1200 dpi
First Page Out
8.5 seconds
The Brother HL-L2400DW is ideal for students, freelancers and anyone who prints mainly text. If you are in a shared house or student flat, the compact size and low running costs are a real advantage. It is also a sensible choice for small offices that do not need colour or scanning. Compared to the HP LaserJet M406DN, it is lighter and quieter, though less feature-rich. Families who need scanning or colour should look at the MFC-L3760CDW or DCP-L3560CDW instead.
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#3Best Compact Colour Laser
HP Color Laser 150nw
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Compact colour: Can the HP Color Laser 150nw deliver big results in a small package?
The HP Color Laser 150nw is the smallest colour laser printer I have tested, measuring just 382 x 309 x 211 mm and weighing 10.04 kg. Despite its compact size, it delivers sharp A4 prints at 600 x 600 dpi and handles graphics with more punch than you might expect at this price. Print speed is modest at 18 ppm mono and 4 ppm colour, but for occasional use, this is more than adequate. Wireless printing worked well from both Windows and Mac laptops, and the setup process took under six minutes. During a 50-page mixed document test, the printer maintained consistent quality and did not jam once. Noise levels reached 52 dB, which is noticeable but not disruptive. The 150-sheet input tray is small, so frequent refills are needed for larger jobs. Toner cost per page is 3.1p for mono and 12.5p for colour, which is higher than some rivals but typical for compact models.
The biggest compromise with the HP Color Laser 150nw is speed. Colour print jobs crawl at just 4 ppm, so large presentations or photo-heavy documents require patience. There is no duplex printing, so you will need to flip pages manually for double-sided work. The input tray holds only 150 sheets, which is limiting for busy households or small offices. There is no scanning or copying function, so it is strictly for printing. The control panel is basic, with no display beyond a few status LEDs. Toner cartridges are smaller than those in larger printers, which means more frequent replacements. Finally, the printer lacks an Ethernet port, so network connectivity is limited to Wi-Fi and USB.
This is the best compact colour laser printer for UK buyers with limited space. Occasional users, students and home workers who need colour will appreciate its footprint. Our 50-page test run completed in just under 13 minutes, with no paper jams. It cannot match the speed or features of the Brother MFC-L3760CDW, but it is much easier to fit on a shelf. Printing out colourful flyers for a student society was simple and the results looked professional. The price is fair for what you get, though running costs are higher than mono models. You will need to refill paper and toner more often than with larger printers. If you value space-saving above all else, this is a sensible choice.
Pros
+Small footprint
+Colour printing
+Network and wireless support
Cons
−No scanning or copying
−Slower colour print speeds
Specifications
Print Technology
Laser (Colour)
Functions
Print only
Print Speed
18 ppm mono / 4 ppm colour
Resolution
600 x 600 dpi
First Page Out
12.4 seconds
The HP Color Laser 150nw is aimed at students, freelancers and anyone who needs occasional colour prints but has limited space. It is a good fit for a small flat or a home office where every centimetre counts. Compared to the Brother DCP-L3560CDW, it is far more compact and lighter, though it lacks scanning. If you only print a few pages at a time and do not need duplexing, this model is a practical solution. Families who need scanning or higher speed should look elsewhere.
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#4Best for Small Offices
HP LaserJet M406DN
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Small office workhorse: How does the HP LaserJet M406DN stack up?
The HP LaserJet M406DN is built for speed and reliability, making it a solid option for small office environments. During testing, it reached a blistering 38 ppm for mono A4 prints, the fastest in this group. The 1200 x 1200 dpi output is sharp, and the first page appears in just 6.3 seconds. Duplex printing is automatic and did not slow things down much, averaging 32 ppm in our tests. The 250-sheet input tray and 100-sheet multipurpose tray mean fewer interruptions during big print runs. At 11.6 kg and 381 x 357 x 216 mm, it is compact enough for most office desks. Noise levels peaked at 54 dB, which is noticeable but not distracting in a busy office. Network connectivity includes both Ethernet and USB, with robust security features for shared environments. Toner cost per page is 2.2p, which is competitive for this speed bracket.
The M406DN is strictly mono, so it is not suitable for anyone needing colour. There is no scanning or copying, which limits its appeal for home users or those who want an all-in-one. Wireless printing is not built in, so you will need to connect via Ethernet or USB unless you add a separate wireless adapter. The control panel is basic, with a small two-line LCD and a few buttons. The printer is noisier than some rivals, peaking at 54 dB during heavy use. The starter toner is rated for 1,500 pages, which is less than some competitors. Finally, the price is on the higher side for a mono-only printer without scanning.
This is the fastest mono laser printer I have tested for under £300. Small offices and workgroups with high print volumes will benefit most. In our speed test, it hit 38 ppm for standard A4 text. It lacks the versatility of the Brother MFC-L3760CDW, but it is much faster for mono jobs. Printing out a 200-page report took just over five minutes. The price is reasonable for the speed and build quality. The lack of wireless may be a dealbreaker for some. If you need a reliable workhorse for text, this is a top-rated pick.
Pros
+Fast mono printing
+Automatic duplex
+Large paper capacity
Cons
−Mono only
−No scan or copy
Specifications
Print Technology
Laser (Mono)
Functions
Print only
Print Speed
38 ppm
Resolution
1200 x 1200 dpi
First Page Out
6.3 seconds
The HP LaserJet M406DN is aimed at small offices, workgroups and anyone who needs to print large volumes of text quickly. It is a good fit for accountants, legal practices or admin teams who value speed over features. Compared to the Brother HL-L2400DW, it is faster and better suited to heavy workloads, though it is less versatile than an all-in-one. Home users who need scanning or colour should look elsewhere. If you want a reliable mono printer that can keep up with demanding schedules, this is a strong candidate.
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#5Best All-in-One for Colour
Brother DCP-L3560CDW
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
All-in-one versatility: Does the Brother DCP-L3560CDW cover every base?
The Brother DCP-L3560CDW is a feature-packed all-in-one laser printer for colour tasks, offering print, scan and copy functions in one unit. During testing, it produced sharp 2400 x 600 dpi output at 18 ppm for mono and 16 ppm for colour. The 50-sheet ADF made scanning multi-page documents straightforward, and duplex printing worked reliably. Wireless setup was quick, and the printer handled both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections without fuss. Noise levels peaked at 50 dB, which is reasonable for a colour laser of this size. At 19.4 kg and 410 x 475 x 414 mm, it is sizeable but not unwieldy. The touchscreen interface is clear, and the menu system is easy to navigate. Toner cost per page is 2.5p for mono and 10.9p for colour, which is competitive for an all-in-one.
The DCP-L3560CDW does not include fax functionality, which may be a dealbreaker for some small businesses. At nearly 20 kg, it is not easy to move once set up. The printer's footprint is large, so it will take up most of a standard desk. The scanner lid does not extend for thick books, limiting flexibility for some users. Print speed is slightly slower than the MFC-L3760CDW, particularly for colour. The touchscreen, while responsive, is smaller than on some rivals. Initial setup required a firmware update that took 10 minutes. Finally, the price is on the high side for a printer without fax or advanced finishing features.
This is a versatile all-in-one colour laser printer for busy homes and small offices. Families, students and small business owners will benefit from its scanning and copying features. In our 100-page mixed document test, it averaged 17 ppm with no paper jams. It is not as fast or feature-rich as the MFC-L3760CDW, but it covers most everyday needs. Scanning a stack of receipts for tax season was quick and hassle-free. The price is higher than some rivals, but the running costs are reasonable. You will need to make space for it on your desk. If you want an all-in-one without fax, this is a reliable choice.
Pros
+All-in-one: print, scan, copy
+Good colour quality
+Wireless connectivity
Cons
−No fax
−Higher price
Specifications
Print Technology
Laser (Colour)
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy
Print Speed
18 ppm mono / 16 ppm colour
Resolution
2400 x 600 dpi
ADF Capacity
50 sheets
The Brother DCP-L3560CDW is best for families, students and small businesses who need scanning and copying as well as colour printing. It is a good fit for a home office or shared workspace where multiple users need access to an all-in-one. Compared to the HP Color Laser 150nw, it offers far more features, though it is larger and heavier. If you do not need fax, this model covers most needs. Those with limited space may prefer a more compact printer.
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How we tested Laser Printers
To find the best laser printer 2026, our editorial team at Testix.co.uk kicked off a hands-on review marathon, gathering ten of the most talked-about models from major brands such as Brother, HP and Canon. We sourced units covering a price range from £83.48 to £320.89, ensuring a fair spread from budget mono printers to all-in-one colour machines. Each model was tested in a typical home office environment, with print jobs ranging from text-heavy documents to full-colour charts. We also factored in real-world feedback, drawing on over 1,950 customer reviews to spot any recurring issues or hidden strengths that might not show up in a single week of testing.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process focused on measurable, repeatable results. Print speed was timed using a standard 20-page document, while print quality was assessed with both text and colour graphics, using a magnifier to check for banding or toner bleed. Noise levels were measured in decibels at a one-metre distance, and we tracked actual running costs per page by weighing toner usage after 100 pages. Connectivity was tested via Wi-Fi, USB and Ethernet, with a particular eye on how quickly each printer woke from sleep and responded to mobile print commands. We also compared the manufacturers’ claims to our own results, flagging any discrepancies.
To ensure our findings reflected the broader UK experience, we cross-referenced our lab results with over 1,950 customer reviews from retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. This helped us spot patterns in reliability and support, as well as any quirks that only emerge after months of use. For example, several users highlighted the Brother HL-L2400DW’s reliable duplex printing, while others noted the HP Color Laser 150nw’s compact footprint as a deciding factor for small desks. By blending hands-on testing with large-scale user feedback, we aimed to deliver recommendations that hold up in real homes and offices.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Print Quality
Assessed using both mono and colour test pages, with attention to sharpness, colour accuracy and toner distribution.
25%
Speed & Efficiency
Measured in pages per minute (ppm) for text and mixed documents, plus wake-from-sleep times.
20%
Running Costs
Calculated cost per page based on toner usage and official cartridge prices.
15%
Connectivity & Ease of Use
Evaluated Wi-Fi, mobile print, USB and Ethernet setup, plus touchscreen/menu navigation.
10%
Build & Reliability
Factored in weight, footprint, noise (dB), and long-term reliability from user reviews.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.0 point gap between Brother MFC-L3760CDW (9.1) and Brother DCP-L3560CDW (8.1). This difference came down to the MFC-L3760CDW’s superior print quality and faster duplex speeds, as well as its more intuitive touchscreen interface. While the DCP-L3560CDW performed well for colour jobs, it lagged behind in mono text sharpness and took longer to process large print queues. The MFC-L3760CDW also offered lower running costs per page, tipping the balance in its favour for anyone looking for the best laser printer 2026.
Independence and transparency
All products were sourced independently, with no manufacturer input on our testing process or editorial conclusions. Our team purchased retail units from UK outlets to ensure we tested the same models available to consumers.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you click through to retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos or Amazon UK and make a purchase. This does not influence our rankings or the depth of our reviews. Our recommendations are based solely on our own testing and analysis.
The Brother HL-L2400DW A4 Wireless Mono Laser Printer is the best laser printer under £100 in the UK, offering reliable mono printing and wireless connectivity for just £83.48. This model is a rare find at this price, delivering a print speed of 30 ppm and automatic duplex printing, which is not common among budget printers. The 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution ensures text is crisp, and the 7.2 kg weight means it fits easily on most desks without hassle. At 48 dB, it is also relatively quiet, making it suitable for shared spaces or home offices.
The HL-L2400DW’s main specs include a first page out time of 8.5 seconds and a toner cost per page of only 1.9p, which keeps ongoing expenses low for students or anyone watching their budget. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and USB, so you can print from laptops and mobile devices without trailing cables everywhere. The compact dimensions (356 x 360 x 183 mm) mean it will not dominate a small workspace or student room. Automatic duplexing is a real plus at this price point, saving both paper and effort.
Other contenders in the sub-£100 bracket simply do not match the HL-L2400DW’s feature set. The HP Color Laser 150nw, for example, is £219.99 and offers colour but at a much higher price and slower speeds. The Canon I-SENSYS LBP243dw II is another option, but it typically retails above £100 and does not offer the same balance of speed and running costs. For those who just need reliable mono printing, the Brother HL-L2400DW is the clear winner on value and utility.
For anyone seeking a laser printer for university halls, rental flats, or home schooling on a tight budget, the HL-L2400DW is our pick. It delivers fast, sharp mono prints, is cheap to run, and does not take up much room. If you need colour or scanning, you will need to spend more, but for basic printing, this Brother laser printer is hard to beat at under £100.
Brother MFC-L3760CDW vs Brother HL-L2400DW A4 Wireless Mono Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L3760CDW is a more versatile machine than the HL-L2400DW, but the right choice depends on your needs. The MFC-L3760CDW offers colour printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, while the HL-L2400DW focuses on fast mono printing at a much lower price. If you need an all-in-one for a busy household or small office, the MFC-L3760CDW is the better fit. If you want affordable, high-speed mono printing, the HL-L2400DW covers the basics well.
Looking at the numbers, the MFC-L3760CDW prints at 21 ppm mono and 19 ppm colour, with a resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi and automatic duplexing. It has a 50-sheet ADF and supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. The HL-L2400DW, meanwhile, prints mono at 30 ppm, offers 1200 x 1200 dpi, and also features automatic duplexing. It is lighter (7.2 kg vs 21.7 kg) and smaller, but lacks scanning or colour output.
Price is a major factor: the MFC-L3760CDW costs £277.88, while the HL-L2400DW is just £83.48. The running costs are also different: 2.3p per mono page for the MFC-L3760CDW, 1.9p for the HL-L2400DW. If you need colour or multi-function features, the extra spend on the MFC-L3760CDW is justified. If you only need basic black-and-white printing, the HL-L2400DW is far more affordable.
Our verdict: for home offices or anyone needing scanning and colour, the Brother MFC-L3760CDW is the better all-rounder. For students, rental flats, or those on a tight budget, the HL-L2400DW is the obvious choice for mono printing.
Which is the best laser printer for craft projects and creative use?
The HP Color Laser 150nw is the best laser printer for craft projects and creative use, thanks to its compact size and reliable colour output. This model is ideal for users who need to print invitations, labels, or coloured templates without spending a fortune on a larger, more complex machine. Its 600 x 600 dpi resolution is sufficient for most craft needs, and the 150-sheet input tray means you can handle small batches without constant refilling.
The Color Laser 150nw prints at 18 ppm mono and 4 ppm colour, which is slower for colour but manageable for craft tasks. At 10.04 kg and measuring 382 x 309 x 211 mm, it fits neatly on a craft table or shelf. The noise level is 52 dB, so it is not silent, but it will not drown out conversation. Toner costs are 3.1p per mono page and 12.5p for colour, which is reasonable for occasional creative projects.
Other options for craft users include the Brother DCP-L3560CDW (£320.89), which adds scanning and copying, and the Brother MFC-L3760CDW (£277.88), which is more expensive but offers higher resolution and more features. However, both are larger and heavier, making them less convenient for small creative spaces. The HP Color Laser 150nw strikes a good balance between price, size, and colour capability.
For crafters, hobbyists, or anyone needing a compact colour laser printer for home, the HP Color Laser 150nw is our top recommendation. It is affordable, fits in tight spaces, and produces vibrant prints suitable for most creative projects.
Is the Brother MFC-L3760CDW worth £277.88?
Yes, the Brother MFC-L3760CDW is worth £277.88 if you need a reliable all-in-one colour laser printer with scanning, copying, and faxing. Its combination of features and print quality makes it a solid investment for home offices or small businesses that require more than just basic printing. The running costs are reasonable for a colour laser, and the build quality feels robust enough for regular use.
The MFC-L3760CDW offers 21 ppm mono and 19 ppm colour print speeds, a 2400 x 600 dpi resolution, and a 50-sheet ADF for multi-page scanning or copying. Automatic duplex printing is standard, and the noise level is a modest 49 dB. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, so it fits into most network setups. The toner cost per page is 2.3p for mono and 10.1p for colour, which is competitive for this class.
Alternatives include the Brother DCP-L3560CDW (£320.89), which is similar but lacks fax, and the HP Color Laser 150nw (£219.99), which is cheaper but only prints and does not scan or copy. The MFC-L3760CDW is heavier (21.7 kg) and larger than most, so it is best suited to a dedicated spot in a home office or small business.
If you need an all-in-one laser printer for remote working, shared student houses, or a small office, the Brother MFC-L3760CDW is our pick. It delivers a strong mix of speed, features, and value, justifying its price for anyone who needs more than basic printing.
Common mistakes when buying laser printer
1
Ignoring printer size and weight
Many buyers overlook the physical size and weight of printers like the Brother MFC-L3760CDW (21.7 kg) or HP Color Laser 150nw (10.04 kg). For small desks or shared student houses, a bulky model can be a real nuisance. Always check the dimensions and weight before buying, especially if you plan to move it around or fit it into a tight space.
2
Assuming all printers support wireless
Not every laser printer offers Wi-Fi out of the box. While models such as the Brother HL-L2400DW and HP Color Laser 150nw include wireless connectivity, others rely on USB or Ethernet only. Double-check the connectivity options if you want to print from laptops, tablets, or phones without cables.
3
Forgetting about toner costs
Toner costs can add up quickly, especially for colour models like the Brother DCP-L3560CDW (10.9p per colour page) or HP Color Laser 150nw (12.5p per colour page). It is easy to focus on the upfront price and ignore ongoing expenses. Compare cost per page figures before making your choice.
4
Overlooking print speed for busy households
Print speed matters if you share a printer with others. The HP LaserJet M406DN prints at 38 ppm, while the Brother DCP-L3560CDW manages 18 ppm mono. If you regularly print long documents, a slow printer can cause frustration. Check the ppm rating to match your needs.
Frequently asked questions about laser printer
Does the Brother HL-L2400DW work with Mac computers?
+
Yes, the Brother HL-L2400DW is compatible with Mac computers. It supports macOS via official Brother drivers, so you can print wirelessly or over USB. Set-up is straightforward, and AirPrint support means you can print directly from Apple devices. This makes it a flexible option for mixed-device households or university halls with Mac users.
How noisy is the Brother HL-L2400DW during operation?
+
The Brother HL-L2400DW operates at 48 dB, which is relatively quiet for a laser printer. In practice, this means it will not disrupt conversation or concentration in a home office or shared flat. The noise is mostly noticeable during large print jobs, but it quickly subsides when idle. For comparison, some colour models like the HP Color Laser 150nw reach 52 dB.
Can the Brother DCP-L3560CDW scan double-sided documents?
+
No, the Brother DCP-L3560CDW does not support automatic double-sided scanning. It features a 50-sheet ADF for single-sided scanning, but duplex scanning must be done manually. This is common in its price range, though some higher-end models offer true duplex scanning. For most home or small office users, manual duplex is manageable for occasional use.
What is the print speed of HP LaserJet M406DN?
+
The HP LaserJet M406DN prints at 38 pages per minute, making it one of the fastest mono laser printers in its class. This speed is ideal for busy offices or anyone handling large print runs. The first page is out in just 6.3 seconds, and automatic duplexing helps save time and paper. Its rapid output is a key selling point for high-volume users.
How much does the Brother MFC-L3760CDW cost to run?
+
The Brother MFC-L3760CDW costs 2.3p per mono page and 10.1p per colour page in toner. These figures are competitive for a colour all-in-one laser printer. If you print mostly black-and-white, running costs stay low, but frequent colour printing will add up. Factoring in these costs helps avoid surprises over time.
Is the HP Color Laser 150nw good for photos?
+
The HP Color Laser 150nw is adequate for basic colour graphics and charts but not ideal for high-quality photo printing. Its 600 x 600 dpi resolution produces decent results for craft projects or presentations, but photo detail and gradients are limited compared to inkjets. For occasional creative use, it is fine, but photo enthusiasts may want to look elsewhere.
Which laser printer is best for infrequent use?
+
The Brother HL-L2400DW is a strong choice for infrequent use due to its low running costs and reliable mono output. It does not require frequent maintenance, and the toner does not dry out like ink. At £83.48, it is affordable and compact, making it suitable for home offices, rental flats, or student rooms where printing is occasional.
What is the best compact laser printer for home?
+
The HP Color Laser 150nw is the best compact laser printer for home, thanks to its small footprint (382 x 309 x 211 mm) and light weight (10.04 kg). It fits easily on a shelf or desk, offers wireless printing, and handles both mono and colour jobs. For those needing a space-saving solution with colour capability, this HP model is a practical pick.
Other laser printer included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3302fdw£299.99Laser, Scan, Copy, Fax
