Choosing the right duplex laser printer for remote work can significantly boost productivity and reduce costs. In 2026, the market offers a variety of models tailored for different needs. For small teams or home offices, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out with its all-in-one capabilities and robust connectivity. If high-volume monochrome printing is your priority, the Brother DCP-L2640DW offers impressive speed and eco-friendly features. For color printing with less fuss, the Brother HL-L3220CDW combines quality with convenience. This guide compares these options, highlighting their tradeoffs so you can find the best fit for your remote work setup.
Get hardware and tech essentials delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Key Takeaways
- All-in-one models like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offer versatile features but come at a higher price point.
- Monochrome printers such as the Brother DCP-L2640DW excel in high-speed, high-volume tasks with eco-friendly features.
- Wireless connectivity and duplex printing are standard in all models, but some require subscriptions for full functionality.
- Color laser printers provide vibrant output but tend to be more expensive and larger in size.
- Choosing between monochrome and color depends on your primary printing needs and budget.
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity |  | Best Overall for Small Offices and Remote Teams | Print Speed: up to 19 ppm | Scan Speed: up to 29/22 ipm (black/color) | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing, Duplex, 250-Sheet Tray |  | Best for Color Printing and High-Quality Output | Print Speed: 19 PPM | Connectivity: Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing |  | Best for Speed and High-Volume Monochrome Printing | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Scan Speed: 23.6/7.9 ipm | Auto Document Feeder: 50 pages | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing |  | Best Compact Monochrome Printer for Home Remote Work | Print Speed: 36 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Paper Capacity: 250 sheets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Duplex, Mobile Printing, Ethernet, Includes 2-Month Refresh Trial |  | Best for Small Offices Needing Color and Versatility | Print Speed: up to 27 pages per minute | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile | Duplex Printing: Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| duplex laser printer for remote work | Print Speed | Connectivity | Energy Star | Paper Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | up to 19 ppm | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 | Yes | 250 sheets |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | 19 PPM | Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible | Yes | 250 sheets |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | 36 pages per minute | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Yes | 250 sheets |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | 36 pages per minute | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Yes | 250 sheets |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | up to 27 pages per minute | Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile | Yes | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Scanner, Copier, Fax, Auto Duplex, 250-Sheet Capacity
The Brother MFC-L3720CDW stands out for its all-in-one functionality, making it suitable for remote workers who need printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device. Its fast print speeds of up to 19 ppm and 250-sheet paper capacity suit small office workflows well. The inclusion of a 3.5-inch touchscreen simplifies operation, and its versatile wireless connectivity—including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB—supports remote setups seamlessly. Compared to monochrome models, it offers vibrant color output, though this comes at a higher initial cost and complexity, especially if subscription services are needed for some features. This makes it ideal for remote professionals who need flexibility and multifunctionality but might find the setup process a bit involved.
Pros:- Fast print and scan speeds suitable for small office demands
- Versatile connectivity options including cloud integration
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
Cons:- Requires subscription enrollment for full feature access
- Complex setup process for some users
- Higher initial cost compared to basic printers
Best for: Small teams or remote workers requiring all-in-one capabilities with color output.
Not ideal for: Those on a tight budget or solely focused on monochrome printing needs.
- Print Speed:up to 19 ppm
- Scan Speed:up to 29/22 ipm (black/color)
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Touchscreen:3.5-inch color display
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
- Energy Star:Yes
Our verdict“This model offers a comprehensive feature set ideal for remote teams needing multifunctionality, despite its higher price and setup complexity.”
Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Laser Printer with Wireless Printing, Duplex, 250-Sheet Tray
The Brother HL-L3220CDW is designed with professional home offices and small businesses in mind, offering crisp, vibrant color for documents and graphics. Its fast printing speed of 19 ppm ensures quick turnaround times, and the large 250-sheet tray supports high-volume tasks without frequent refills. Wireless and mobile device compatibility make remote printing straightforward, though it lacks some advanced features found in multifunction models, such as scanning and copying. While color output is a major strength, the absence of fax functionality and potential higher toner costs should be considered. It’s a good pick for remote workers who need reliable color printing without extra frills.
Pros:- Vibrant, crisp color laser output
- Fast print speeds of up to 19 ppm
- Large paper capacity reduces refilling frequency
Cons:- No scanning or copying functions
- Potentially higher toner costs for color cartridges
- Limited to small office/home use, not ideal for high-volume bulk printing
Best for: Remote professionals needing high-quality color printing with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Those seeking multifunction devices or monochrome-only printers.
- Print Speed:19 PPM
- Connectivity:Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Media Handling:Manual feed for envelopes and specialty media
- Energy Star:Yes
Our verdict“This model delivers vibrant color prints efficiently, perfect for remote workers who prioritize quality but don’t need multifunction features.”
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Multi-Function Printer, Copy, Scan, Duplex, Mobile Printing
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is tailored for remote workers who need fast, reliable monochrome printing and scanning. Its impressive speed of up to 36 ppm makes it suitable for high-volume tasks, while the 50-page auto document feeder simplifies multitasking. Its multiple connectivity options—including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB—enable flexible remote operation. Compared with color models, this device is more affordable upfront and consumes less toner, but it’s limited to black-and-white printing. Its basic feature set makes it less suitable for users who need color output or multifunction capabilities beyond copying and scanning. This pick is ideal for remote professionals focused on document-heavy workflows and cost efficiency.
Pros:- Fast printing speeds up to 36 ppm
- Multiple connectivity options including Ethernet
- Eco-friendly features like duplex printing
Cons:- Limited to monochrome output
- Requires compatible toner cartridges for best performance
- Basic features may lack advanced functionalities
Best for: High-volume monochrome printing for remote workers or small businesses.
Not ideal for: Those requiring color printing or advanced multifunction features.
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Scan Speed:23.6/7.9 ipm
- Auto Document Feeder:50 pages
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Energy Star:Yes
Our verdict“This printer excels in speed and efficiency for monochrome tasks, making it perfect for remote users with high-volume needs.”
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer with Duplex and Mobile Printing
The Brother HL-L2460DW offers a compact, reliable monochrome printing solution for remote workers with limited space. Its fast 36 ppm speed ensures quick document output, and its wireless and Ethernet connectivity make remote management simple. The automatic duplex feature reduces paper waste, which is a plus for eco-conscious users. Its straightforward design and support for mobile printing make it a practical choice for home offices, though its monochrome-only output limits versatility. It’s best suited for those who primarily print text documents and need a space-efficient device that handles high-volume workloads efficiently.
Pros:- Fast print speed of 36 ppm
- Wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Compact footprint fits small spaces
Cons:- Limited to monochrome printing
- Requires genuine toner cartridges
- Basic feature set
Best for: Home remote workers needing a compact, monochrome printer with high speed.
Not ideal for: Users needing color printing or multifunction features.
- Print Speed:36 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Warranty:1-year limited
- Energy Star:Yes
Our verdict“This model balances speed and space efficiency, making it ideal for monochrome document workflows in remote settings.”
Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer, Duplex, Mobile Printing, Ethernet, Includes 2-Month Refresh Trial
The Brother HL-L3280CDW combines color output with fast speeds of up to 27 ppm, making it a versatile choice for remote workers who need vibrant documents or marketing materials. Its automatic duplex printing, wireless, Ethernet, and mobile printing support streamline remote workflows. The inclusion of a 2-month free trial for a toner refresh adds value, although ongoing costs can be higher with color toner replacements. Its compact design and eco modes make it suitable for small offices or home setups where color output is valued over multifunctionality. This printer balances speed, quality, and convenience but requires some subscription enrollment for full feature access.
Pros:- Fast speeds up to 27 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing
- Wireless, Ethernet, and mobile support
Cons:- Subscription needed for full features
- Higher ongoing toner costs for color
- Limited to US for free trial
Best for: Remote users requiring color printing with moderate volume and versatile connectivity.
Not ideal for: High-volume monochrome users or those seeking multifunction devices.
- Print Speed:up to 27 pages per minute
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile
- Duplex Printing:Automatic
- Energy Star:Yes
- Warranty:1 year limited
Our verdict“This model offers reliable color printing for remote work, especially when vibrant outputs are needed alongside ease of use.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on models specifically designed for remote work environments, emphasizing duplex printing, connectivity options, and ease of use. We prioritized printers that balance speed, reliability, and affordability for small offices and home setups. Each product was evaluated based on its ability to handle typical remote work printing volumes, feature set, and user-friendliness. We included both monochrome and color options to cater to different printing needs, ensuring each pick offers a clear advantage within its category while acknowledging potential drawbacks such as higher costs or limited media handling.
| duplex laser printer for remote work | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0 |
| Brother HL-L3220CDW Color Lase | Wireless, Mobile Device Compatible |
| Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless M | Wireless, Ethernet, USB |
| Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Mo | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB |
| Brother HL-L3280CDW Wireless C | Wireless, Ethernet, Mobile |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Duplex Laser Printer For Remote Work
Selecting a duplex laser printer for remote work involves balancing speed, functionality, and space. Consider whether you need color or monochrome output, as well as multifunction capabilities like scanning and copying. Connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet are essential for remote setups, while auto duplex printing saves time and paper. Budget constraints and the volume of printing should guide your choice, along with the importance of ease of use and setup. This guide breaks down these factors to help you identify the best fit for your specific remote work environment.
Understanding Your Printing Needs
Determine whether you primarily print text documents or need vibrant color output. Monochrome printers like the Brother DCP-L2640DW and HL-L2460DW are best for high-volume, text-heavy tasks, while color models like the Brother HL-L3220CDW and HL-L3280CDW suit creative projects or marketing materials. Assess your volume needs—if you print daily in large quantities, speed and paper capacity matter more. For occasional printing, simpler models may suffice, but for frequent, high-volume tasks, investment in faster, larger-capacity devices pays off.
Connectivity and Ease of Use
Remote work demands reliable wireless connectivity, and most models here support Wi-Fi, with some offering Ethernet and mobile printing options. Look for intuitive interfaces, such as touchscreens, which simplify setup and daily operation. Consider whether subscription services or additional software are necessary to access full features—these can add cost and complexity. A straightforward setup process and versatile compatibility are key to seamless integration into your remote workspace.
Cost and Ongoing Expenses
Initial investment varies among models, with multifunction color printers typically costing more upfront. But ongoing costs—especially toner replacements—are just as important. Monochrome printers tend to have lower toner costs and higher efficiency for text documents. Color printers, while more versatile, may incur higher toner expenses over time. Also, consider subscription requirements for some models, which could increase your total cost of ownership. Balancing upfront price with long-term running costs helps ensure your choice aligns with your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is duplex printing and why is it important for remote work?
Duplex printing allows the printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper, saving time, reducing paper use, and lowering costs. For remote workers who print frequently, especially in high volumes, this feature offers significant efficiency gains and helps promote sustainability by cutting down paper waste.
Are color laser printers suitable for remote work?
Color laser printers like the Brother HL-L3220CDW are ideal if you need vibrant, professional-looking documents, marketing materials, or presentations. However, they tend to be more expensive upfront and have higher ongoing toner costs. For mostly text-based printing, monochrome models often provide better value and efficiency.
Do I need a multifunction printer for remote work?
It depends on your workflow. If you frequently scan, copy, or fax documents, a multifunction device like the Brother MFC-L3720CDW makes sense. But for those who mainly print documents, a dedicated printer might be more cost-effective. Multifunction models add convenience but can also increase complexity and initial cost.
How important is wireless connectivity in a remote printer?
Wireless connectivity is vital for remote work, as it allows you to print from anywhere within your network or via cloud services without physically connecting your device. Look for models supporting Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and mobile printing to ensure maximum flexibility and ease of access from multiple devices.
What are the ongoing costs associated with laser printers?
Toner replacement costs are the primary ongoing expense for laser printers. Monochrome models generally have lower toner costs and longer-lasting cartridges, whereas color printers tend to have more expensive, higher-yield cartridges. Additionally, some printers require subscriptions or additional software for full functionality, which can add to the total cost over time.
Conclusion
If you need an all-in-one, versatile device for small teams or home offices, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW offers the most comprehensive feature set, despite its higher initial price. For high-volume monochrome tasks, the Brother DCP-L2640DW delivers speed and efficiency at a lower ongoing cost. If vibrant color printing is essential, the Brother HL-L3220CDW strikes a balance between quality and convenience. Budget-conscious remote workers focused on monochrome output should consider the Brother HL-L2460DW, which combines speed, space efficiency, and affordability. Ultimately, your choice hinges on your specific printing needs, whether it’s multifunctionality, color output, or high-volume monochrome printing.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
