Guide to Color Laser Printers

Budget printers

If your printing needs are light, you can probably get by with a low-end model. Budget color laser printers still offer high quality but generally offer a lower volume output and print fewer pages per minute. If you need extra features, such as two-sided printing, you’ll probably need to buy additional accessories.

I recommend: Budget models you may want to consider include the HP Color LaserJet 1600 (about $300), which is compact enough to fit on a desk and the network-ready Dell 3010cn (under $400). You can also find a selection of refurbished printers at low costs from TigerDirect.com.

Wide-format printing

If you print pieces that are larger than a sheet of legal-sized paper, you’ll need a printer that can handle larger formats. Most manufacturers offer a number of wide-format printers, usually for accommodating documents of up to either 12” X 18” or 11” X 17”. These higher-cost printers start at about $2,000.

I recommend: Find wide-format printers at SuperWarehouse.com.

Workgroup printers

For small offices where employees share a single computer, a network-ready workgroup model that provides high-volume output is ideal.

I recommend: Search for workgroup printers at Shopping.com.

Paper-handling capabilities

Laser printers offer a wealth of paper-handling options, including two-sided printing, collating, stapling, saddle-stitching and multiple high-volume paper trays.

I recommend: PrinterShowcase.com rates printers on a number of features, including speed, quality and paper-handling capabilities so you can quickly find small-office models that have the paper-handling features you need.

Choosing the right paper

To get the highest-quality documents and to protect your printer, you need the right paper. Using paper designed for an inkjet printer could damage your printer. Laser paper options are available for brochures, presentations, cover/card stock, everyday office use, even photos (although printing photos on a color laser printer isn’t the best option).

I recommend: Find listings of all types and sizes of laser printer paper at Graytex.com, which also offers paper recommendations based on what you want to print.

Ongoing costs

Include upkeep costs when comparing prices. The price of ink cartridges or toner over the lifetime of the device can easily amount to more than the original price of the printer.

I recommend: For a vast supply of toner cartridges, ink and other printer supplies, go to TonerCartridgeDepot.com.

Monitor color printing

If you want to limit access to color printing, or you need to track color usage in order to bill clients, you can download additional software for these purposes.

I recommend:  HP offers several tools that can help you track and control your color printing.

Visit the HP Printing and Imaging Expertise Center

HP sells more printers to small businesses worldwide than any other company.

I recommend: The HP Printing and Imaging Center for small business offers excellent advice and information on choosing the best color laser printer, reducing costs and saving time. Simply answer a few questions about your needs to narrow your search for a color laser printer. Also see what printers small business owners voted their top picks in the annual Small Business Computing Excellence in Technology Awards.