5 Best Black and White Laser Printers (November 2026)
The best black and white laser printers include the Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer for simple home printing, the Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser for small office workflows, and the HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black for very small spaces.
On this page (4 sections)
The best laser printer black and white pick for most homes is the Brother HL-L2405W, with wireless printing, a 250-sheet tray and speeds up to 30 pages per minute.
That balance explains why it leads this roundup for simple home use.
Choose the Brother MFC-L2820DW for copying and scanning, or the HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw for faster office printing.
Each recommendation below answers a different kind of document task, so the best fit depends on the work you do most often.
We compared these monochrome models by print speed, paper handling, duplex printing, connection options, functions and toner planning.
Print speed matters when a report or a set of forms is waiting, while paper handling decides how often you stop to refill the tray.
Duplex printing changes the routine for longer documents, because automatic two-sided output removes a step that manual handling keeps in place.
Connection options matter in a shared home or office, since laptops, phones and tablets may all need access to the same printer.
Functions are the other dividing line, because a print-only machine keeps the workflow simple while an all-in-one covers copying, scanning and sometimes faxing.
Toner planning affects the long term cost of ownership, so the cartridge family for each model is worth checking before you buy.
A black and white laser printer can be a good fit when your work is mostly forms, schoolwork, reports, invoices and other text documents.
Monochrome output keeps the focus on clear, readable pages for everyday paperwork rather than photos or color presentations.
For a home office, that often means invoices, contracts, labels, study material and records that need to be filed or shared.
For a small office, it can mean repeatable reports and forms that are printed in batches through the day.
If you need the basic definition first, read What Is a Monochrome Laser Printer? The Basics.
That guide helps clarify the difference between a laser printer and other printing approaches before you compare models.
For color documents, compare these picks with Best Budget Color Laser Printers.
Color can still be the better choice for design work, marketing material or documents meant for display.
The picks that follow stay focused on black and white output, where speed, paper capacity and running costs carry more weight.
Use the sections ahead to match your space, your page volume and the functions you actually need.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for simple home printingBrother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for small office workflowsBrother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itHP Laserjet Pro 3001dw Wireless Black
Best for fast small-team printing - 5
Best for straightforward duplex printingCheck it
The best black and white laser printers for different needs
The Brother HL-L2405W is the best all-around choice for simple home printing, while the Brother MFC-L2820DW is better for a small office that needs several document functions. The HP, Canon and other Brother models suit different space, speed and workflow needs.
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer: Best for simple home printing
- Up to 30 pages per minute
- 250-sheet paper tray
- Dual-band wireless and USB
- Manual duplex printing
A compact print-only model with wireless connections, a 250-sheet tray and support for standard and high-yield Brother toner.
Pros
- Compact footprint
- 250-sheet tray
- Mobile printing
Cons
- Manual duplex printing
- Print only
The Brother HL-L2405W is the best laser printer black and white choice for a home office that mainly prints documents. It is a print-only model with a compact 14.2 in depth, 14 in width and 7.2 in height, so it can fit on many desks.
Its print speed reaches 30 pages per minute, and its 250-sheet paper tray reduces how often you need to refill ordinary paper. The manual feed slot supports envelopes and specialty paper, which helps when your regular tray stays loaded with standard sheets.
Dual-band wireless supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections, while USB connects it locally to one computer. The Brother Mobile Connect app supports mobile printing and toner-use tracking.
This model uses Brother Genuine TN830, TN830XL or TN830XL2PK toner. Automatic duplex printing is not included, so two-sided jobs require manual page handling.
Choose it for direct black and white printing from laptops, PCs, smartphones or tablets. Consider the MFC-L2820DW if you need copying, scanning, faxing or automatic duplex printing.
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser: Best for small office workflows
- Print, copy, scan and fax
- Up to 34 pages per minute
- 50-page auto document feeder
- Automatic duplex printing
This compact all-in-one adds copying, scanning and faxing, with automatic duplex printing and a 50-page auto document feeder.
Pros
- Four functions
- Automatic duplex
- 50-page auto document feeder
Cons
- Larger and heavier than the print-only Brother
The Brother MFC-L2820DW is the strongest pick for a small office that needs more than printing. It combines printing, copying, scanning and faxing in one compact monochrome machine.
Its print speed reaches up to 34 pages per minute, and a 50-page auto document feeder helps with multipage copy, scan and fax jobs. Automatic duplex printing can handle both sides of a document without requiring you to turn pages manually.
The 250-sheet paper tray supports regular office work, while dual-band wireless, Ethernet and USB provide several connection choices. Its 2.7 in touchscreen also supports printing from and scanning to cloud-based apps such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote and OneNote.
The printer uses Brother Genuine TN830, TN830V or TN830XL toner. Its dimensions are 15.7 in deep, 16.1 in wide and 12.5 in high, with a listed weight of 22.5 lb.
Choose this model when a budget laser printer black and white setup must also copy, scan and fax. Its larger body makes it less suitable than the HL-L2405W for a very small desk.
HP Laserjet MFP M140w Wireless Black: Best for very small spaces
- Print, scan and copy
- Up to 21 pages per minute
- Compact 11.9 lb design
- Wireless mobile printing
A small multifunction printer for buyers who need basic black and white printing, scanning and copying in limited space.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Lightweight design
- ID card copying
Cons
- No automatic duplex
- Slower than the other multifunction picks
The HP LaserJet MFP M140w is the best choice when desk space matters more than speed. It prints, scans and copies, while its 10.4 in depth, 14.2 in width and 7.8 in height make it the smallest listed option by depth and height among these picks.
Black and white print speed reaches up to 21 pages per minute. That is slower than the other models here, but it can suit a home user or a small team printing shorter jobs.
Wireless printing works with mobile devices, PCs and tablets, and the HP Smart app supports printing, copying and scanning from a smartphone. The printer also supports copying both sides of an ID card onto one side of a sheet.
The M140w does not include duplex printing. It works with cartridges that use original HP chips or circuitry, and firmware updates maintain those measures.
Choose it when you need a small multifunction printer for basic work. If your main concern is speed or automatic two-sided pages, the HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw is a better fit.
HP Laserjet Pro 3001dw Wireless Black: Best for fast small-team printing
- Up to 35 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided printing
- 250-sheet capacity
- Ethernet and wireless printing
A fast office-focused printer for up to 7 people, with automatic two-sided printing and security features from HP.
Pros
- Fast print speed
- Automatic duplex
- 250-sheet capacity
Cons
- Larger than the compact home models
- Print only
The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw is the best fast black and white laser printer for a small office team. HP positions it for up to 7 people, and its print speed reaches 35 pages per minute for single-sided documents.
Automatic two-sided printing helps reduce manual page turning for longer reports. The 250-sheet capacity also suits regular office printing, while Ethernet and USB provide wired connection options alongside wireless printing.
HP Wolf Pro Security provides customizable printer security settings. The model also supports printing from mobile devices, PCs and tablets, with compatibility that includes Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android and Chromebook environments.
The printer measures 15.7 in deep, 14.4 in wide and 8.5 in high. It includes a printer, toner cartridges, power cord, setup guide and warranty guide.
Choose it for speed, automatic duplex printing and a small-team workflow. It is less suitable when you need scanning or copying in the same machine.
Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw: Best for straightforward duplex printing
- Up to 35 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided printing
- 250-sheet cassette
- Canon PRINT app, AirPrint and Mopria
A print-only monochrome model with automatic duplex printing, a 250-sheet cassette and mobile printing support.
Pros
- Fast printing
- Automatic duplex
- 250-sheet cassette
Cons
- Print only
- Larger depth than the Brother print-only model
The Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw is a straightforward choice for fast automatic duplex printing. It is a single-function monochrome printer with speeds up to 35 pages per minute and a 250-sheet standard cassette.
Automatic two-sided printing helps with reports, forms and other multipage documents. Mobile printing works through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint and Mopria Print Service, and the printer is also Chromebook compatible.
The LBP172dw uses Canon Genuine Toner 072 or 072 High Capacity toner. It measures 17.2 in deep, 10.9 in wide and 18.4 in high, so check the available space carefully before choosing it.
Canon includes a 1-year limited warranty. The model is also identified as ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver in its product information.
Choose it when you want a print-only black laser printer with a fast rated speed and automatic duplex printing. The Brother HL-L2405W is easier to place on a shallow desk, while the Canon offers automatic two-sided printing.
How we scored these black and white laser printers
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
We gave the highest scores to models that match common black and white printing needs while offering useful paper handling, connection choices or extra functions.
The score is not a claim that one printer suits every desk or every workload.
It is a way to sort the options by how well the listed features line up with typical home and small office tasks.
Print speed is part of that judgment, because a faster rating helps when several pages are queued at once.
Paper capacity counts too, since a larger tray means fewer interruptions during a longer print run.
Duplex printing adds practical value for people who print reports, forms or study material on both sides.
Connection choices matter for day to day use, especially when several devices share one printer.
Extra functions can raise a score when they replace separate devices on a crowded desk.
Toner planning also plays a role, because the cartridge family decides what you will order later.
The Brother HL-L2405W leads because it combines a compact body, wireless connections, mobile printing, a 250-sheet tray and a 30-page-per-minute rating.
The MFC-L2820DW follows closely because its automatic duplex printing and multifunction design add value for small offices.
That all-in-one route suits buyers who want copying, scanning and faxing without adding more machines.
The HP LaserJet MFP M140w scores well for its small size and three functions, although its 21-page-per-minute speed and lack of duplex printing limit it for heavier workloads.
Its compact body is a real advantage when desk depth is tight or the printer must sit beside other equipment.
The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw and Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw both offer 35-page-per-minute printing and automatic duplexing.
Those faster ratings suit small teams and longer documents, while automatic two-sided printing reduces manual page handling.
The Canon model stays print-only, so its score reflects speed and duplex value rather than extra functions.
The HP Pro model also stays focused on printing, with office oriented connections and security features in its product information.
Scores should be read alongside the trade-offs in each section, including size, weight and whether duplex printing is automatic or manual.
A lower score may still mean the right printer for a small desk, a lighter workload or a simpler routine.
What matters most in a black laser printer?
The right black and white laser printer depends on whether you need only printing or also want copying, scanning and faxing. A print-only model usually has a simpler workflow, while an all-in-one can save desk space when you need several devices.
Is speed important for the best laser printer black and white?
Print speed matters most when you regularly print long reports or several jobs in a row. The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw and Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw reach 35 pages per minute, while the Brother MFC-L2820DW reaches up to 34 pages per minute.
For occasional home printing, a lower rated speed may be enough. The Brother HL-L2405W reaches 30 pages per minute, and the HP LaserJet MFP M140w reaches 21 pages per minute.
Should you choose automatic or manual duplex printing?
Choose automatic duplex printing if you often print on both sides of a page. The Brother MFC-L2820DW, HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw and Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw handle two-sided printing automatically.
The Brother HL-L2405W uses manual duplex printing, and the HP LaserJet MFP M140w does not include duplex printing. For more two-sided options, see Best Duplex Monochrome Laser Printers.
How do toner costs affect a budget laser printer black and white?
Routine operating cost depends on how often you print, which toner family the printer uses and whether standard or high-yield cartridges are available. Brother models here support TN830-family toner, while the Canon uses Toner 072 options.
HP notes that the M140w and 3001dw are intended to work with cartridges using original HP chips or circuitry. Check toner availability and cartridge fit before you choose a printer based only on its initial cost.
Are wireless connections enough for an office?
Wireless is enough for many home offices, especially when several laptops, phones or tablets need to print. Wired options can help when a printer has a fixed desk location or when an office prefers Ethernet.
The Brother MFC-L2820DW offers wireless, Ethernet and USB. The HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw offers Ethernet and USB in addition to wireless printing, while the Brother HL-L2405W offers dual-band wireless and USB.
For brand-specific comparisons, see best Lexmark laser printer black and white and best Brother monochrome laser printer.
How should you set up and care for a black laser printer?
Place the printer where you can open its paper tray, reach the toner area and connect its power and data cables. Load paper that matches the job, keep the tray from overfilling and follow the printer's on-screen or app instructions during setup.
Use the correct toner family for your model. Keep the printer away from spills and heavy dust, and check the paper path if pages begin feeding unevenly or printing changes.
Laser printers also need enough room for ventilation and routine access. Measure the printer's full depth, width and height before buying, then allow additional space for cables, paper loading and tray movement.
Best black and white laser printer verdict
The Brother HL-L2405W is the best laser printer black and white option for most home users who need fast, wireless, print-only document output.
Its compact body, dual-band wireless connection and 250-sheet tray cover the needs of a typical home office.
The trade-off is manual duplex printing, so two-sided jobs need page handling by hand.
Choose the Brother MFC-L2820DW when copying, scanning, faxing and automatic duplex printing matter more than the smallest footprint.
That model adds a 50-page auto document feeder for multipage copy, scan and fax tasks.
Its larger body and higher weight make it a better fit for a desk with room to spare.
Pick the HP LaserJet MFP M140w for a compact multifunction setup.
It prints, scans and copies in a small frame, which helps when space is the main constraint.
The slower 21-page-per-minute rating and lack of duplex printing suit lighter workloads rather than busy office queues.
Pick the HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw for fast small-team printing.
Its 35-page-per-minute rating and automatic two-sided printing suit reports and longer documents.
Pick the Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw for straightforward automatic duplex printing.
It is print-only, so the appeal is speed, a 250-sheet cassette and simple two-sided output.
Check the depth and height before buying, because the Canon body needs careful placement on a shallow desk.
For a lower purchase budget, compare these choices with Best Budget Laser Printers.
A lower priced printer still needs a toner plan, so check the cartridge family and yield options for each model.
To understand the main trade-offs before choosing, read What Are the Advantages of a Laser Printer? and What Are the Disadvantages of a Laser Printer?.
Those guides help separate the benefits of laser printing from the limits that come with any single machine.
Measure your desk, list the functions you need and note whether duplex printing must be automatic.
That short list makes the final choice clearer than chasing the highest speed on paper alone.
Set up the printer where paper loading, toner access and cables all have room to move.
Keep the tray filled with the right paper size and check the toner level before a busy day.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple home printing
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for small office workflows
Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the best laser printer black and white for home use?
The Brother HL-L2405W is the strongest home pick here because it combines a compact design, dual-band wireless, a 250-sheet tray and speeds up to 30 pages per minute. Choose the HP LaserJet MFP M140w instead if you also need scanning and copying in a smaller space.
Are black and white laser printers cheaper to run?
They can be economical for regular document printing because they use black toner rather than separate color cartridges. Your routine cost still depends on toner yield, replacement frequency and how many pages you print, so compare compatible toner options before buying.
What is the best budget black and white laser printer?
The best budget black and white laser printer depends on the work you need. The Brother HL-L2405W fits basic printing, while the HP LaserJet MFP M140w adds scanning and copying.
Check the total toner plan, not only the printer's purchase price.
Is automatic duplex printing worth it?
Automatic duplex printing is useful when you regularly print multipage documents and want both sides handled without turning pages by hand. The Brother MFC-L2820DW, HP LaserJet Pro 3001dw and Canon imageCLASS LBP172dw include automatic duplex printing.
What should I check before buying a black laser printer?
Check the printer's functions, print speed, paper capacity, duplex method, connections and toner family. Also measure your desk.
A printer that fits your page needs may still be inconvenient if its depth, width or height leaves no room for cables and paper handling.
