Laser Printers
Last updated: June 13, 2026
Inkjets are a scam designed to sell you overpriced water. If you're tired of nozzles clogging every time you take a week off, it's time to grow up and buy a laser. In June 2026, the market is flooded with 'smart' printers that are actually quite dim, so I've cut through the marketing fluff to find the five machines that actually earn their keep on a British desk.
How we rank these products
Our rankings combine real-time UK consumer interest data from PriceSpy with structured analysis of key specs like video quality, stabilization, battery life, and value for money. We continuously update rankings to reflect both market trends and product performance. We also highlight key trade-offs and use cases to help you choose whatβs actually right for you.
What changed this month?
For June 2026, we have overhauled our selection to focus on machines that survive the 'subscription-ware' era without losing their minds. These five models represent the pinnacle of toner efficiency and build quality for the current UK market.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3302fdw
π Best for Modern Offices
A sleek, high-speed colour multi-function printer that looks the part in a professional setting.
HP's latest effort is fast and produces stunning colour, but it comes with the usual corporate baggage.
Reasons to buy
- βBlistering print speeds for both colour and mono
- βCompact footprint for a full MFP
- βExcellent touchscreen interface
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe HP Smart app will nag you for an account until you lose your temper
- βProprietary toner chips make third-party refills a constant battle
Brother MFC-L8690CDW
π Best Heavy Duty Workhorse
A massive, dependable beast designed for high-volume printing without the fuss.
If you have the space and a mountain of paperwork, this is the only machine worth your Β£400.
Reasons to buy
- βBuilt like a Victorian railway bridge
- βMassive paper capacity reduces refill frequency
- βDuplex scanning is genuinely fast
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βIt is physically enormous and will dominate a small home office
- βThe cooling fan sounds like a jet taking off during long print runs
Brother DCP-L2627DWE
π Best for Home Admin
A reliable mono laser that handles scanning and copying with zero drama.
Perfect for those who only need black and white but want the reliability of a laser over a dried-up inkjet.
Reasons to buy
- βCrisp text that won't smudge if you spill your tea
- βVery reasonable price point for a multi-function unit
- βSimple setup process
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe 'E' suffix means it's tied to Brother's EcoPro subscription service
- βThe display is a basic non-backlit LCD that's hard to read in low light
Brother HL-L2400DW
π Best Budget Mono Pick
The 'no-frills' king of mono printing, ideal for students or basic home filing.
It doesn't scan, it doesn't do colour, and it doesn't care. It just prints text reliably.
Reasons to buy
- βSmall enough to hide in a cupboard or on a shelf
- βIncredibly low cost per page
- βWakes up and prints the first page in seconds
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe plastic casing feels incredibly flimsy and cheap
- βNo physical buttons for 'copy' or 'scan' because it can't do them
Brother MFC-L8390CDW
π Best All-Rounder
A balanced colour laser that fits between home use and serious office work.
This is the sweet spot for anyone needing colour graphics without the bulk of a full enterprise machine.
Reasons to buy
- βSurprisingly quiet operation for a colour laser
- βExcellent wireless connectivity that actually stays connected
- βHigh-yield toner options available
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βA full set of replacement toners will cost more than the printer itself
- βThe colour accuracy is fine for charts, but don't try printing photos
Still not sure which one to buy?
Join the Smart Spenders community! Talk to real buyers, ask questions about specific models, and make sure you are getting the absolute best deal.
Ask the Community βHow to avoid a laser-sized headache
Buying a laser printer isn't just about the upfront cost; it's about the long-term battle against toner prices and software 'updates' that try to lock you out.
Mono vs Colour
Be honest with yourself. If you're just printing boarding passes and Amazon return labels, buy a mono printer. Colour lasers require four separate toner cartridges, and the cost of replacing them all at once will make your eyes water.
The Subscription Trap
Many modern printers, especially those with an 'e' or 'i' in the model name, are designed to be used with a monthly subscription. While this can save money if you print hundreds of pages, it often means the printer won't work if it loses its internet connection. Read the small print before you commit.
Footprint and Noise
Laser printers use heat to fuse toner to paper. This requires fans. If you're in a tiny flat, a high-end MFP will be loud and kick out a fair bit of heat. Check the dimensions; some of these 'desktop' units require two people to lift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is toner cheaper than ink?
In the long run, yes. Toner doesn't dry out if you don't use it for a month, and the cost per page is significantly lower, even if the initial cartridge price looks scary.
Can I print photos on a laser printer?
You can, but they'll look rubbish compared to a dedicated photo inkjet. Lasers are for text, charts, and documents, not your holiday snaps.
Transparency & Data: Prices and availability are updated regularly using data from PriceSpy and retailers.
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