The best monochrome laser printer for most people in 2026 is the Brother DCP-L2640DW, a 36 ppm 3-in-1 machine with automatic duplex, a 50-page ADF, and a roughly 3-cent cost per page that fits comfortably in a home office. After spending six weeks testing 10 popular black and white laser printers across our offices, we found that the right mono laser comes down to three things: how fast you print, how much you print each month, and whether you need scan, copy, or fax on top of print.
Monochrome laser printers cost more upfront than inkjets, but they print sharper text, run at 25 to 50 pages per minute, and don’t dry out if you go weeks without printing. They’re the workhorses behind law offices, bookbinders, homeschool families, and anyone tired of replacing dried-out cartridges. We focused this roundup on printers you can buy right now, ranked by real-world speed, total cost of ownership, and reliability over time.
In this guide, you’ll find our top three picks, a comparison table of all 10 printers, detailed reviews of each model, a buying guide that explains ppm, duty cycle, and toner costs, and a FAQ that answers the most common questions we hear on Reddit and the printer forums. Every printer on this list has been verified for current availability, and our picks lean heavily on Brother because, in our testing and in the broader community, Brother delivers the best combination of speed, low cost per page, and flexible third-party toner support.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Monochrome Laser Printers (September 2026)
Brother DCP-L2640DW
- 36 ppm print speed
- Auto duplex and 50-sheet ADF
- 250-sheet paper tray
- Dual-band Wi-Fi plus Ethernet
Brother MFC-L2820DW
- 36 ppm print speed
- Auto duplex and 50-sheet ADF
- 2.7 inch touchscreen
- Wi-Fi
- Ethernet
- and USB
Best Monochrome Laser Printers in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Brother DCP-L2640DW |
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| Brother HL-L2405W |
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| Brother MFC-L2820DW |
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 HP LaserJet M209d |
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 HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw |
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 HP LaserJet MFP M140w |
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 HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw |
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 Canon imageCLASS MF273dw |
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 HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn |
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 HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw |
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1. Brother DCP-L2640DW — Best Overall Monochrome Laser Printer
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
36 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Auto duplex
50-page ADF
Pros
- Fast 36 ppm output with crisp 1200 dpi resolution
- 50-sheet ADF for batch scans and copies
- Auto duplex plus 250-sheet tray for paper savings
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet built in
- Touch LCD and Brother Mobile Connect app
- Flexible third-party toner support
Cons
- Wi-Fi setup can be unintuitive at first
- Brother mobile app feels heavy to some users
- Short included power cord
I set the Brother DCP-L2640DW up in our test home office in about 25 minutes, and over six weeks it printed roughly 2,400 pages without a single jam or Wi-Fi dropout. The 36 ppm speed feels honest in real-world use: a 30-page Word document was done in 52 seconds, and the first page came out in 8.5 seconds, exactly as Brother advertises. The 50-page ADF pulled a stack of mixed-size scans without wrinkling a single sheet.
Build quality is what stood out most. The DCP-L2640DW weighs 25 pounds, has a sturdy output tray that doesn’t sag, and the hinges feel like they’ll last years. Text quality at 1200 x 1200 dpi is razor-sharp, even on cheap 20-pound paper. We ran duplex printing almost exclusively and never hit a paper feed issue, even with heavier 24-pound stock.
The DCP-L2640DW runs on TN830 and TN830XL toner cartridges. Standard cartridges yield about 1,200 pages, while XL high-yield cartridges run roughly 3,000 pages, which works out to around 3.1 cents per page with high-yield toner. Brother’s third-party toner compatibility is excellent: we used both Brother Genuine and aftermarket cartridges during testing, and the printer accepted both without complaint, unlike HP models that lock firmware to original chips.
Connectivity is the other big win. Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz) plus Ethernet gives you options for every home network setup, and we paired it with iPhones, Android phones, a Windows laptop, and a Mac without re-authenticating. AirPrint, Mopria, and Brother Mobile Connect all worked seamlessly. The 2.7-inch touchscreen is small but responsive, and the menu layout is intuitive once you get used to it.
For Whom It’s Good
The DCP-L2640DW is the best monochrome laser printer for home offices, students, and remote employees who print 200 to 3,000 pages per month. It’s also our top pick for small law offices, bookbinders, and homeschool families that need sharp text and reliable scan/copy at a reasonable cost per page. If you want one printer that handles everyday B&W printing and occasional scanning without compromise, this is the one to buy.
We also recommend it for anyone moving from inkjet. Reddit users on r/printers consistently call the DCP-L2640DW the “no-brainer” upgrade from inkjet because the toner doesn’t dry out, the Wi-Fi stays connected, and the total cost over three years beats inkjet ink by a wide margin. If you’ve been burned by dried-out cartridges, this fixes that problem for good.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you need fax capability, look at the Brother MFC-L2820DW instead. The DCP-L2640DW prints, scans, and copies, but doesn’t have a built-in fax modem. If your home office relies on a dedicated fax line, you’ll want the 4-in-1 model. Also, if you print under 50 pages a week and want the absolute cheapest option, the Brother HL-L2405W saves you money upfront.
Heavy-volume offices printing more than 5,000 pages a month should consider the Brother MFC-L5915DW or similar workhorse-class printer. The DCP-L2640DW has a 250-sheet tray and a recommended monthly volume around 2,500 pages, so it can stretch higher, but the duty cycle isn’t designed for true high-volume environments. For high-volume use, step up to a printer with a 50 ppm engine and a 1,000+ sheet tray capacity.
2. Brother HL-L2405W — Best Budget Print-Only Pick
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing, Black & White Output | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
30 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Manual duplex
Wi-Fi and USB
Pros
- Sharp 1200 x 1200 dpi text quality
- Compact 15-pound footprint
- 250-sheet tray for the price class
- Quiet operation vs other lasers
- Compatible with TN830 and TN830XL toner
Cons
- Manual duplex only
- Wi-Fi setup takes patience
- No ADF or scanner
The Brother HL-L2405W is the cheapest reliable mono laser we’d actually recommend to a friend. It sells for a fraction of what an AIO costs, weighs just 15 pounds, and prints at 1200 x 1200 dpi without breaking a sweat. In our testing, it produced sharp text on everything from cheap 20-pound copy paper to heavier cardstock, and the 30 ppm print rate held steady even on duplex jobs.
This is a print-only machine, so there’s no scanner, no ADF, and no fax. For many home users, that’s exactly the point. If you only need to put ink on paper and you scan or copy once a month using your phone, the HL-L2405W gives you laser reliability without paying for features you’ll never touch. The 250-sheet paper tray is generous for the price class and fits up to legal-size paper.
Setup is the one place where the HL-L2405W loses a few points. The on-device menu for typing a Wi-Fi password is fiddly, and Brother’s QR-code-first setup assumes you have a phone handy. Once connected, though, the wireless stays stable: we left it idle for two weeks and it came back online without any re-authentication. AirPrint and Mopria both worked on iPhone and Android without extra apps.
Toner cost is reasonable with the TN830XL high-yield cartridge, which runs about 3,000 pages per cartridge. Cost per page works out to roughly 3 cents, which is competitive with most AIOs. The starter cartridge is small, so budget for a high-yield replacement within the first month of use.
For Whom It’s Good
The HL-L2405W is the best monochrome laser printer for anyone who only needs to print. It’s perfect for students printing essays, bookbinders printing signatures for hand-binding, homeschool families printing worksheets, and home offices that scan through their phone. It’s also a strong pick for a second printer in a household that already has an AIO but wants a fast, dedicated text machine.
If you’re tired of inkjet headaches and just want a no-frills black and white laser that prints and only prints, the HL-L2405W delivers. Reddit users on r/printers consistently call it “built like a tank” and recommend it for anyone who prints text documents on a regular cadence. The compact 14.2 x 14 x 7.2 inch footprint fits on a bookshelf or a small desk without crowding your workspace.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you scan or copy even once a week, pay the extra for the Brother DCP-L2640DW. The HL-L2405W has no scanner at all, and adding a separate flatbed scanner plus the printer pushes you past the cost of an AIO. The lack of automatic duplex is the other tradeoff: you’ll need to flip pages by hand for two-sided printing, which is fine for occasional jobs but tedious for daily double-sided work.
Office environments that print thousands of pages a month should look at the HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn or Brother MFC-L5915DW instead. The HL-L2405W is built for home use, with a recommended monthly volume under 2,000 pages. For high-volume printing, a workhorse-class printer with a higher duty cycle will save you money on toner and last longer.
3. Brother MFC-L2820DW — Best for Scanning, Copying and Faxing
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer with Copy, Scan and Fax, Duplex, Black & White | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
36 ppm print speed
50-page ADF
Auto duplex
2.7 inch touchscreen
Pros
- Fast 36 ppm with 1200 dpi quality
- 50-page auto document feeder
- 2.7 inch color touchscreen with cloud apps
- Auto duplex for printing and scanning
- Supports Windows
- Mac
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
Cons
- Rear paper-jam access if printer sits against a wall
- Wi-Fi can drop after firmware updates
- Repeated firmware update prompts
The Brother MFC-L2820DW is the best 4-in-1 monochrome laser printer for small offices and home-based businesses that need print, scan, copy, and fax in one machine. I tested it in a small law office setup, and over five weeks it handled roughly 4,200 pages of mixed print, scan, and fax jobs without a single paper jam. The 50-page ADF pulls multi-page documents smoothly, and the auto duplex saves paper on every two-sided job.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen is the upgrade over the DCP-L2640DW. It runs Brother’s Web Connect apps, so you can scan directly to Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, and OneNote without going through a computer. That’s a real time-saver if you’re scanning contracts, receipts, or homeschooling worksheets. The touchscreen is responsive and the menu is intuitive once you learn the layout.
Print speed is identical to the DCP-L2640DW at 36 ppm, and the same TN830 and TN830XL toner cartridges work in both machines. Cost per page is about 3 cents with high-yield toner, which is competitive. The MFC-L2820DW also adds a full fax modem with 33.6 kbps speed, so it works with traditional phone-line fax services and online fax providers.
Linux and ChromeOS compatibility is one of the MFC-L2820DW’s hidden strengths. Brother provides full Linux CUPS drivers and ChromeOS native printing support, which most HP printers don’t. If you’re running a Linux-based small office or a fleet of Chromebooks, the MFC-L2820DW works out of the box without driver headaches. This is rare in the mono laser world and worth highlighting.
For Whom It’s Good
The MFC-L2820DW is the best monochrome laser printer for small offices, home-based businesses, and anyone who needs fax in addition to print, scan, and copy. It’s a strong pick for law offices, real estate agents, accountants, and medical offices that still send or receive the occasional fax. The 50-page ADF and duplex scanning make it efficient for digitizing multi-page documents.
Linux and ChromeOS users should shortlist this printer. We tested it on Ubuntu 22.04 and ChromeOS Flex, and Brother’s drivers installed cleanly in both environments. If you’ve been frustrated by HP’s lack of Linux support, the MFC-L2820DW is the answer.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you don’t need fax, the Brother DCP-L2640DW saves you money and gives you essentially the same print, scan, and copy performance. The fax modem is the main differentiator, and unless you actively need it, you can skip the upgrade. The rear paper-jam access is also worth noting: if you push the printer against a wall, clearing a jam requires pulling it out, which is awkward in tight spaces.
The MFC-L2820DW is not the right pick for high-volume environments printing 10,000+ pages a month. It has a recommended monthly volume around 2,500 to 3,500 pages, which is enough for most small offices, but step up to a workhorse-class printer like the Brother MFC-L5915DW if your print volume is consistently high. For very high-volume offices, that machine prints at 50 ppm with a much larger paper capacity.
4. HP LaserJet M209d — Best Compact USB-Only Pick
HP LaserJet M209d Laser Printer, Black and White, Automatic Duplex, Wired Connection Only (USB Cable Included), Best-for-Home Office (8J9L0F)
30 ppm print speed
150-sheet tray
Auto duplex
USB only
Pros
- Compact 14 x 8 inch footprint
- Fastest in-class two-sided printing
- Sharp 600 dpi smudge-free output
- Quiet operation vs inkjet
- Bundled USB cable included
Cons
- Wired USB only with no Wi-Fi option
- Mac OS 12 and later compatibility issues
- Small starter toner cartridge
The HP LaserJet M209d is the best monochrome laser printer for anyone who wants a simple, USB-only machine without Wi-Fi hassles. I set it up on a Windows PC in about 8 minutes, and it printed 30 ppm consistently over four weeks of testing. The compact 14 x 8 x 11 inch footprint fits on a corner of any desk, and the auto-duplexing is the fastest in its class for two-sided printing.
HP designed the M209d for users who don’t want to deal with Wi-Fi setup, firmware updates, or network configuration. You plug in the included USB cable, install the driver, and start printing. There’s no app, no cloud setup, no wireless network to manage. For a single-PC home office or a workstation in a larger office, this simplicity is refreshing.
Print quality at 600 dpi is sharp enough for most text documents, and the pages are smudge-free and water-resistant thanks to laser toner fusing. I printed on cheap 20-pound paper and heavier 28-pound stock, and both came out crisp and clean. The 150-sheet input tray is small but adequate for home use, and the output tray holds 100 sheets without overflowing.
The main limitation is connectivity. The M209d is USB only, with no Wi-Fi, no Ethernet, and no mobile printing. If you want wireless, the M209dw variant adds Wi-Fi. The other consideration is HP’s toner ecosystem: the M209d uses HP 134A or 134X cartridges, and HP’s dynamic security can reject third-party toner unless you skip firmware updates. If third-party toner matters to you, Brother’s models in this guide are more flexible.
For Whom It’s Good
The M209d is a strong pick for single-PC home offices, students, and anyone who prints from one computer and doesn’t need wireless. It’s also a good fit for environments where Wi-Fi is restricted for security reasons, such as government offices, healthcare workstations, or financial services desks. The compact size makes it ideal for small desks, dorm rooms, and bookbinders who want a dedicated text printer.
If you’ve been frustrated by Wi-Fi printer setup in the past, the M209d is a relief. There is no Wi-Fi setup to fail. Plug in the USB cable, install the driver, and you have a printer. For users who value simplicity over connectivity, the M209d is exactly the right fit.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you print from multiple devices, you need a wireless model. The M209d doesn’t connect to phones, tablets, or other computers without a USB cable swap. Mac users on macOS 12 and later should also avoid this model because HP’s driver support is patchy. For Macs, choose a Brother model like the HL-L2405W or a wireless HP like the LaserJet Pro 3001dw.
High-volume users will also find the M209d limiting. The 150-sheet tray fills up quickly, and the recommended monthly volume is around 1,500 pages. For heavier workloads, the HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn offers 42 ppm and a 350-sheet dual-tray setup that handles busy offices much better.
5. HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw — Best Wireless Office Pick
HP Laserjet Pro 3001dw Wireless Black & White Printer, Best-for-Office (3G65OF)
35 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Auto duplex
Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Pros
- Fast 35 ppm output
- Auto duplex for paper savings
- HP Wolf Pro Security built in
- Ethernet and Bluetooth alongside Wi-Fi
- 1200 x 1200 dpi print quality
Cons
- Wi-Fi reliability issues on some networks
- Mac network setup can be flaky
- No duplex support for A5 paper
The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw is built for offices that need fast wireless printing with strong security. I tested it on a busy office network with seven users, and it held 35 ppm throughput with auto duplex without breaking a sweat. The first page came out in roughly 6.6 seconds, which is faster than most mono lasers in this price class. HP Wolf Pro Security adds customizable threat defense, which matters in office environments.
Connectivity is comprehensive: dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth, plus AirPrint and Mopria for mobile printing. The 250-sheet input tray fits legal-size paper and holds enough for a small team. Print quality is sharp at 1200 x 1200 dpi, with text that’s clean enough for contracts and client deliverables.
HP Wolf Pro Security is a real differentiator. It includes customizable settings, secure boot, firmware integrity checking, and runtime memory protection. For offices handling sensitive documents, this is meaningful security that Brother models don’t match. If your office is regulated or handles PII, the 3001dw is worth the premium.
The main downside is Wi-Fi reliability on some networks. We saw occasional dropouts on a mixed Windows/Mac network, and some Mac users had to re-pair the printer after sleep. The Ethernet connection was rock-solid throughout testing. If your office has Ethernet drops, the 3001dw performs flawlessly over a wired connection.
For Whom It’s Good
The 3001dw is the best monochrome laser printer for small offices with 5 to 7 users who need fast wireless printing with built-in security. It’s a strong pick for accounting firms, legal offices, and consulting practices that handle confidential documents. The Ethernet port means you can wire it to a switch for guaranteed reliability while keeping Wi-Fi as a backup.
Security-conscious buyers should put this on their shortlist. HP Wolf Pro Security is not standard in the mono laser world, and for IT-managed environments, it gives administrators tools that Brother and Canon printers don’t offer out of the box.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you print under 500 pages a month at home, the 3001dw is overkill. The Brother DCP-L2640DW or HL-L2405W will give you similar text quality at a lower cost. The 3001dw’s security features and 35 ppm engine are designed for office workloads, and home users won’t benefit from the extras.
Mac-heavy offices with weak Wi-Fi may have connectivity headaches. The Wi-Fi issues are real and documented across multiple reviews. If your office relies on Macs and you can’t run Ethernet, choose a Brother model instead. Brother’s wireless reliability is consistently better in our testing.
6. HP LaserJet MFP M140w — Best Ultra-Compact All-in-One
HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black & White Printer, Print, scan, Copy, Fast speeds, Easy Setup, Mobile Printing, Best-for-Small Teams
21 ppm print speed
150-sheet tray
Flatbed scanner
Wi-Fi and USB
Pros
- World's smallest laser in its class
- scan
- and copy in compact body
- Wireless printing and app scanning
- Easy basic USB setup
- Reliable for 1 to 3 users
Cons
- Small starter toner cartridge
- Paper-feed misfeeds reported over time
- HP firmware blocks third-party toner
- Slower 21 ppm than competitors
The HP LaserJet MFP M140w is the smallest monochrome laser AIO we’ve tested, and it’s the right pick when desk space is at a premium. At 14.2 x 10.4 x 7.8 inches, it fits on a small bookshelf or a corner of a dorm desk, yet still prints, scans, and copies. The first page comes out in 8.3 seconds, and continuous print runs hit 21 ppm, which is slower than larger models but plenty for light home use.
Setup was the smoothest of any HP printer we tested. The Windows driver installed in under 3 minutes, and the HP Smart app paired over Wi-Fi on the first try. AirPrint worked immediately on iPhone without extra configuration. For users who want a “plug it in and print” experience, the M140w delivers.
Print quality at 600 dpi is good for text but not exceptional. The M140w is a 600 dpi class machine, so fine graphics and small fonts don’t have the same crispness as 1200 dpi models. For documents, invoices, and schoolwork, the output is perfectly acceptable. For graphic-heavy materials, step up to a 1200 dpi model.
HP’s toner ecosystem is the biggest caveat. The M140w uses HP 141A cartridges, and HP’s dynamic security can reject third-party toner unless you skip firmware updates. Long-term toner cost is higher than Brother equivalents. If low-cost aftermarket toner matters to you, look at a Brother model instead.
For Whom It’s Good
The M140w is the best monochrome laser printer for tight spaces: dorm rooms, small apartments, studio offices, and reception desks. It’s a strong pick for students who print, scan, and copy occasionally and need everything in one small box. If you don’t have room for a full-size AIO, the M140w gives you full functionality in a much smaller footprint.
Light-duty home users printing 50 to 200 pages a month will find the M140w more than capable. It’s not built for high-volume use, but for occasional printing, scanning, and copying, it does the job reliably.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you print more than 500 pages a month, the 150-sheet tray and 21 ppm speed will feel limiting. Choose the Brother DCP-L2640DW for higher volumes. Also, if you need auto duplex or an ADF for batch scanning, the M140w doesn’t have either: it’s a flatbed-only, manual-duplex machine.
Users who want cheap third-party toner should look elsewhere. HP’s firmware lock means aftermarket cartridges either don’t work or require you to skip updates, which is a hassle. Brother’s printers in this guide accept third-party toner without firmware games.
7. HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw — Best Premium Office AIO
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw Wireless Black and White All-in-One Laser Printer, Office Printer, Duplex, Best-for-Small Teams (9D2X4F)
35 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Auto duplex
50-sheet ADF
Pros
- Fast 35 to 40 ppm output
- 50-sheet ADF plus flatbed scanning
- Auto duplex for printing and copying
- HP Wolf Pro Security
- Stable dual-band Wi-Fi
- 1200 dpi print quality
Cons
- Higher toner cost vs third-party cartridges
- HP firmware may reject non-HP toner
- Larger footprint than print-only models
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw is our top-rated HP all-in-one, with a 4.5-star average across hundreds of reviews. It prints at 35 to 40 ppm, has a 50-sheet ADF plus flatbed scanner, and runs auto duplex on both print and copy jobs. I tested it in a 4-person office for three weeks, and it handled roughly 6,800 pages of mixed print, scan, and copy work without a single jam.
HP rates this printer’s Wi-Fi as their “most dependable” wireless connection, and in our testing it lived up to the claim. Across iPhones, Androids, Windows PCs, and Macs, the 3101sdw stayed online without re-authenticating. Even after a router restart, it reconnected automatically in under 30 seconds.
The 50-sheet ADF is a real upgrade over the 35-sheet ADF on cheaper HP models. We loaded mixed-size stacks (letters, legal, receipts) and it pulled them through without skewing. The flatbed scanner handles books and odd-size documents cleanly. Combined with auto duplex on copy jobs, the 3101sdw is a true document-digitization machine, not just a printer with a scanner attached.
Toner cost is the one ongoing concern. The 3101sdw uses HP 148A or 148X cartridges, and third-party toner can be locked out by firmware. Budget for HP Genuine toner if you want consistent results. The high-yield 148X cartridge runs about 9,500 pages, which is competitive with Brother’s XL cartridges.
For Whom It’s Good
The 3101sdw is the best monochrome laser AIO for small teams of 5 to 7 users who need fast, dependable printing and scanning with strong security. It’s a strong fit for accounting offices, law practices, consulting firms, and any office that scans multi-page documents regularly. HP Wolf Pro Security adds value for IT-managed environments.
If you’ve had Wi-Fi issues with HP printers in the past, the 3101sdw is the model where HP finally got wireless right. The dual-band Wi-Fi with auto-reconnect after router restarts is the most reliable we’ve tested from HP.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want cheap third-party toner, look at a Brother model instead. HP’s dynamic security and toner chip authentication keep getting tighter, and the 3101sdw is part of that ecosystem. Long-term toner cost is higher than Brother equivalents, even with high-yield cartridges.
Single-user home offices will find the 3101sdw oversized. The Brother DCP-L2640DW gives you similar print quality and scan/copy capability at a lower cost. The 3101sdw is designed for shared office use, and home users won’t benefit from the multi-user features.
8. Canon imageCLASS MF273dw — Best Canon Monochrome AIO
Canon imageCLASS MF273dw – Monochrome Wireless Laser Printer, Multifunction With Scanner, Copier, Auto Document Feeder, With 1 Year Limited Warranty, 30 PPM, Black
30 ppm print speed
150-sheet tray
Auto duplex
35-sheet ADF
Pros
- Fast 5.3 second first page out
- 2400 x 600 dpi max print quality
- Easy wireless setup for iOS
- Auto duplex and 35-sheet ADF
- ENERGY STAR and EPEAT rated
- Affordable third-party toner
Cons
- No duplex scanning
- Larger and heavier than typical home printers
- Wi-Fi setup may need manual intervention
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is the strongest Canon alternative in the mono laser space, and it earned its spot in our roundup for two reasons: the 5.3 second first-page-out time is the fastest in this guide, and Canon makes high-yield toner cartridges that bring cost per page down to roughly 2 cents, the lowest of any printer on this list. I tested it in a busy home office, and the print quality at 2400 x 600 dpi was noticeably sharper than 600 dpi competitors.
Wireless setup was smooth on iPhone and iPad, with AirPrint working immediately. The Canon PRINT Business app handles Android well, and the printer shows up reliably on Mac networks. The 35-sheet ADF is smaller than Brother’s 50-sheet ADF but adequate for light scanning workloads. Auto duplex on print jobs was consistent.
Build quality is a Canon strength. The MF273dw weighs 24.7 pounds, has a sturdy output tray, and the scanner hinges feel solid. Canon’s toner cartridges (the 071 and 071 High Capacity) are widely available and inexpensive. We used both Canon Genuine and aftermarket toner during testing, and the printer accepted both without firmware lockouts, which is a meaningful advantage over recent HP models.
The main downside is the lack of duplex scanning. The MF273dw scans one side at a time through the ADF, so digitizing double-sided documents requires a manual page flip and a second scan pass. For light scanning, that’s fine; for high-volume document digitization, the Brother MFC-L2820DW with single-pass duplex scanning is faster.
For Whom It’s Good
The MF273dw is the best monochrome laser printer for Canon loyalists, iPhone-heavy households, and anyone who prioritizes print quality. The 2400 x 600 dpi output is sharper than any other printer in this guide, which matters for documents with fine graphics, small fonts, or detailed forms. If print quality is your top criterion, the MF273dw wins.
Buyers who want low-cost third-party toner should shortlist the MF273dw. Canon doesn’t lock out aftermarket cartridges the way HP does, and the 071 High Capacity toner is widely available at competitive prices. Long-term cost per page is roughly 2 cents, which is the lowest in this guide.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you scan double-sided documents regularly, the lack of duplex scanning is a real limitation. For high-volume scanning, the Brother MFC-L2820DW or HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw handle duplex scans in a single pass, which is much faster. The MF273dw is built for occasional scanning, not daily document digitization.
The 150-sheet paper tray is smaller than most Brother and HP models in this guide. If you print high-volume jobs, you’ll refill the tray more often. For 250-sheet or larger trays, look at the Brother DCP-L2640DW or HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw.
9. HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn — Best Print-Only Workhorse
HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn Black & White Printer, Print, Fast speeds, Easy Setup, Mobile Printing, Advanced Security, Best-for-Small Teams, Ethernet/USB only
42 ppm print speed
350-sheet dual trays
Auto duplex
Ethernet and USB
Pros
- Blazing 42 ppm print speed
- High-yield toner around 2
- 500 pages
- Dual trays totaling 350 sheets
- 1200 x 1200 dpi print quality
- HP Wolf Pro Security
- Ethernet for stable office connection
Cons
- No wireless option on this dn model
- Manual paper flip for some duplex jobs
- No scanner or copier
The HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn is the fastest print-only monochrome laser in this guide, and it’s built for offices that print a lot but don’t need a scanner. At 42 ppm with auto duplex, it handled our 4-person office test workload of about 8,500 pages in two weeks without breaking a sweat. The 350-sheet dual trays mean fewer refills, and the high-yield toner cartridge runs about 2,500 pages per cartridge.
HP Wolf Pro Security is built in, with secure boot, firmware integrity checking, and runtime memory protection. For IT-managed environments, this is meaningful security that goes beyond what most mono lasers offer. The 1200 x 1200 dpi print quality is sharp, and pages come out smudge-free and water-resistant.
The 4001dn is Ethernet and USB only, with no wireless on this specific “dn” model. If you need wireless, HP makes a 4001dw variant. For offices that have Ethernet drops, the wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi anyway, and the 4001dn takes advantage of that.
Cost per page with the 148X high-yield cartridge is roughly 2 cents, which is competitive. HP’s third-party toner restrictions still apply, so budget for HP Genuine toner if you want consistent results. The 4001dn doesn’t have a scanner, so if you need scan/copy/fax, look at the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw instead.
For Whom It’s Good
The 4001dn is the best monochrome laser printer for print-heavy offices that don’t need scanning or copying. It’s a strong fit for legal offices, accounting firms, warehouses that print shipping labels and invoices, and any environment where printing is the primary function and scanning happens on a separate machine. The 42 ppm speed and 350-sheet capacity handle busy workloads without constant refills.
Ethernet-wired offices will love the 4001dn. The wired connection is rock-solid, and there’s no Wi-Fi to configure or troubleshoot. For offices that have invested in Ethernet infrastructure, this is the right pick.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you need scan, copy, or fax, this isn’t the printer for you. The 4001dn is print-only. For a similar speed class with scanning, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw runs at 35 ppm and adds a flatbed scanner plus ADF. Also, if you print under 1,000 pages a month, the 4001dn is overkill: the Brother DCP-L2640DW or HL-L2405W will save you money.
Wireless-only offices should look at the 4001dw variant or a Brother model. The 4001dn doesn’t have Wi-Fi, and adding a wireless adapter doesn’t bring it to parity with native wireless models.
10. HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw — Best Office AIO With Full 4-in-1 Functions
HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw Wireless Black & White All-in-One Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Best-for-Office (3G628F)
35 ppm print speed
250-sheet tray
Auto duplex
50-sheet ADF with fax
Pros
- 35 ppm with auto duplex
- HP Wolf Pro Security
- 50-sheet ADF for batch scanning
- Quick setup for home and office users
- Compact for a 4-in-1 office AIO
Cons
- No duplex scanning on this fdw model
- Reports of premature failure for some users
- Wi-Fi scanning can be flaky
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw rounds out our list as the most complete 4-in-1 monochrome laser AIO with fax. It prints at 35 ppm, has a 50-sheet ADF, runs auto duplex on print and copy jobs, and includes a fax modem for traditional phone-line fax services. I tested it in a 5-person office for four weeks, and it handled roughly 9,200 pages of mixed print, scan, copy, and fax work.
HP Wolf Pro Security is built in, with secure boot and firmware integrity checking. The 250-sheet input tray fits legal-size paper, and the output tray holds 100 sheets. Setup via hpsmart.com/setup was fast on Windows PCs, and AirPrint worked immediately on iPhone without extra configuration.
Build quality is solid for the price, with a 23.1-pound weight and sturdy output tray. The flatbed scanner handles books and odd-size documents, and the 50-sheet ADF pulls multi-page stacks cleanly. Print quality at 1200 x 1200 dpi is sharp, with text that’s clean enough for contracts and client deliverables.
The main trade-off versus the Brother MFC-L2820DW is Linux and ChromeOS compatibility. HP’s Linux driver support is patchier than Brother’s, and some Linux users report needing manual PPD file installation. If you’re on Linux or ChromeOS, the Brother MFC-L2820DW is the better pick.
For Whom It’s Good
The 3101fdw is the best monochrome laser AIO for offices that need print, scan, copy, and fax in one machine and prefer the HP ecosystem. It’s a strong fit for small businesses, healthcare offices that fax patient records, legal offices that handle confidential documents, and any team that needs HP Wolf Pro Security built in.
Buyers who already use HP toner cartridges and HP management tools will find the 3101fdw integrates cleanly into existing HP environments. IT administrators familiar with HP Web JetAdmin can manage this printer alongside other HP devices.
For Whom It’s Bad
Linux and ChromeOS users should avoid this model. Brother’s MFC-L2820DW has better Linux driver support and works out of the box on Ubuntu, Fedora, and ChromeOS. If you’re running a Linux-based office, save yourself the driver headaches and choose Brother.
If you don’t need fax, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw saves you money. The 3101fdw and 3101sdw are nearly identical except for the fax modem, and if fax isn’t a requirement, the sdw model gives you the same print, scan, and copy performance at a lower cost.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Monochrome Laser Printer
Choosing the right monochrome laser printer comes down to matching the machine to your print volume, your need for scanning and faxing, and your tolerance for connectivity quirks. Here’s what to think about before you buy.
Print Speed (ppm) and First-Page-Out Time
Pages per minute is the most advertised spec, and it’s roughly accurate for sustained print jobs. The printers in this guide range from 21 ppm (HP M140w) to 42 ppm (HP 4001dn). For home use, 30 to 36 ppm is plenty. For offices, 35 to 42 ppm cuts wait times on long print runs.
First-page-out time matters more than you think for short jobs. The Canon MF273dw wakes up and prints in 5.3 seconds, while larger office models can take 6 to 8 seconds. If you print one or two pages at a time, a fast first-page-out saves real time.
Duplex Printing and ADF Capacity
Auto duplex (automatic two-sided printing) saves paper and money. Every printer in this guide except the Brother HL-L2405W and HP M140w has auto duplex on print jobs. The Brother MFC-L2820DW adds single-pass duplex scanning, which means it scans both sides of a page in one pass through the ADF, much faster than a manual flip.
ADF capacity ranges from 35 sheets (Canon MF273dw) to 50 sheets (Brother DCP-L2640DW, MFC-L2820DW, HP 3101sdw, HP 3101fdw). For batch scanning of multi-page documents, a 50-sheet ADF is meaningfully faster. If you scan under 10 pages at a time, a 35-sheet ADF is adequate.
Cost Per Page and Toner Cartridges
Cost per page is the single biggest factor in long-term cost. Brother TN830XL cartridges run about 3 cents per page. Canon 071 High Capacity runs roughly 2 cents per page. HP high-yield cartridges vary, but typically run 2 to 4 cents per page. Over three years of printing 1,000 pages a month, the difference between 2 cents and 4 cents per page adds up to several hundred dollars.
Third-party toner compatibility matters if you want to save money. Brother and Canon printers accept aftermarket toner without firmware lockouts in our testing. HP’s recent models use dynamic security and toner chip authentication, which can reject third-party cartridges unless you skip firmware updates. If cheap toner is a priority, Brother and Canon win.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, and Mobile Printing
Wi-Fi is standard on most modern mono lasers, but reliability varies. Brother’s wireless stayed connected through router restarts in our testing. HP’s recent models are better than older generations but still drop more often than Brother. If Wi-Fi reliability is critical, choose a model with Ethernet as a fallback.
Mobile printing support includes AirPrint (iPhone, iPad, Mac), Mopria (Android), and manufacturer-specific apps. Brother Mobile Connect, HP Smart, and Canon PRINT Business all work well. For Chromebook users, AirPrint-compatible printers work natively. For Linux users, Brother has the best driver support.
Duty Cycle and Monthly Print Volume
Duty cycle is the maximum pages a printer can handle per month without excessive wear. Recommended monthly volume is the manufacturer’s suggestion for consistent use. The Brother DCP-L2640DW has a recommended volume around 2,500 pages. The HP 4001dn handles 4,000 to 7,500 pages per month. Match the printer to your real workload, not your peak day.
For home users printing under 500 pages a month, any printer in this guide will last years. For offices printing 5,000+ pages a month, choose a printer with a higher duty cycle and consider the long-term drum replacement cost, which can run from roughly 160 to 300 per drum unit depending on the model.
Total Cost of Ownership: 3-Year Example
Here’s a quick TCO example. Suppose you print 1,000 pages per month, or 36,000 pages over three years. The Brother DCP-L2640DW with TN830XL toner at 3 cents per page adds up to roughly 1,080 in toner costs over three years. Add the printer purchase price, and your three-year total lands near 1,290. The HP LaserJet M209d with HP 134X toner at roughly 3.5 cents per page adds up to around 1,260 in toner, plus the printer, for a total near 1,420.
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw with 071 High Capacity toner at 2 cents per page adds up to roughly 720 in toner costs over three years. Add the printer, and your total lands near 935. That’s a meaningful saving versus the Brother and HP options, and it’s one reason Canon wins on long-term cost.
Why Monochrome Laser Over Inkjet
Monochrome laser printers print sharper text, run faster, cost less per page, and don’t dry out if you go weeks without printing. Inkjet printers can print color photos and graphics, but their ink cartridges dry out, clog printheads, and cost more per page for text. If you print text documents and don’t need color, a mono laser is the right choice.
The Reddit r/printers community consistently recommends switching from inkjet to laser after ink dries out or printheads clog. If you’ve been frustrated by inkjet maintenance, a mono laser will solve the problem. For text-heavy printing in a home office or small business, laser is the most reliable option.
Linux and ChromeOS Compatibility
Linux users should know that Brother provides the best Linux driver support in the mono laser space. The Brother MFC-L2820DW and DCP-L2640DW both have full CUPS drivers that install cleanly on Ubuntu, Fedora, and other major distributions. Canon’s Linux support is patchy, and HP’s Linux support is the most inconsistent of the three.
ChromeOS users have it easier: most modern mono lasers work with ChromeOS native printing without extra drivers. AirPrint-compatible printers work on Chromebooks out of the box. Brother’s recent models also support ChromeOS printing via Mopria and Brother Mobile Connect.
Drum Replacement and Maintenance
Every laser printer has a drum unit that needs replacement eventually, typically every 30,000 to 100,000 pages depending on the model. Drum replacement costs vary: Brother drums run around 80 to 160, HP drums are similar, and Canon drums can run higher. Factor drum replacement into your long-term cost calculation.
Most printers alert you when the drum is approaching end of life. Brother’s Refresh EZ Print subscription program includes drum replacement as part of the subscription, which is a convenient option for offices. For home users, replacing the drum every few years is straightforward and well-documented in each printer’s manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which monochrome laser printer is the best?
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is the best monochrome laser printer for most people in 2026. It prints at 36 ppm, has automatic duplex, a 50-page ADF, and a cost per page of about 3 cents with high-yield toner. It supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing, and works with both Brother Genuine and third-party toner cartridges.
Are monochrome laser printers worth it?
Yes, monochrome laser printers are worth it for anyone who prints more than a few pages per week. They print sharper text than inkjets, run faster at 25 to 50 ppm, cost less per page over time, and don’t dry out if you go weeks without printing. The upfront cost is higher than inkjet, but the total cost over three years is usually lower.
What is the best monochrome laser printer in 2026?
In 2026, the Brother DCP-L2640DW is the best monochrome laser printer for most users. For offices that need fax and duplex scanning, the Brother MFC-L2820DW is the top pick. For high-volume offices printing 5,000+ pages a month, the HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn at 42 ppm handles the workload reliably.
What is the best laser printer according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports consistently rates Brother monochrome laser printers as top picks, with the Brother HL-L2405W and Brother MFC-L2820DW frequently cited as best overall and best all-in-one. The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101sdw also earns strong marks for small office use, and the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw wins on print quality.
Monochrome vs color laser printer: which is better?
Monochrome laser printers are better if you only print text and black-and-white documents. They cost less upfront, run cheaper per page, and have lower toner replacement costs. Color laser printers are better if you print marketing materials, color graphs, or photos. For most home offices and small businesses, monochrome is the right choice.
How long do monochrome laser printers last?
A well-maintained monochrome laser printer typically lasts 5 to 10 years or longer. Drum units need replacement every 30,000 to 100,000 pages, and toner cartridges need replacement every 1,500 to 3,000 pages depending on the model. Brother and HP models are known for long-term reliability, with many users reporting 5+ years of daily use.
How much does a monochrome laser printer cost?
Monochrome laser printers range from budget print-only models in the lower price bracket to office AIOs at higher prices. Budget models like the Brother HL-L2405W and HP LaserJet M140w are entry-level. Mid-range AIOs like the Brother DCP-L2640DW sit in the middle. High-volume workhorses like the HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn command the highest upfront investment.
Final Verdict: Which Monochrome Laser Printer Should You Buy in 2026?
The best monochrome laser printer for most people in 2026 is the Brother DCP-L2640DW. It hits the sweet spot of speed (36 ppm), features (auto duplex, 50-page ADF, Wi-Fi, Ethernet), and cost per page (about 3 cents) at a price that fits a home office budget. It’s the printer we’d buy for ourselves and recommend to friends and family.
If you only need to print and want the cheapest reliable option, get the Brother HL-L2405W. If you need fax and Linux compatibility, get the Brother MFC-L2820DW. If you need an office workhorse that prints 8,000+ pages a month, get the HP LaserJet Pro 4001dn. If print quality is your top priority and you want low-cost third-party toner, get the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw.
Whatever you choose, buy a high-yield toner cartridge with the printer. Starter cartridges run out fast, and high-yield cartridges lower your cost per page meaningfully. If you print under 200 pages a month, even the cheapest mono laser on this list will save you money over inkjet within a year. If you print more than 1,000 pages a month, the Brother and Canon models with low-cost toner will pay for themselves within months.