Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The lexmark cs331dw color laser printer alternatives list helps you find a machine that matches your specific workflow. This original model offers 26 ppm color output, automatic duplex printing, and robust wireless connectivity. It fits small offices that need secure, mobile-friendly printing without the bulk of an all-in-one device. Its compact size and Ethernet port make it a stable choice for dedicated color tasks.
You might look for different specs, such as faster print speeds, monochrome output, or integrated scanning. Some teams prefer a different brand or a more compact footprint. The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. This list compares 6 similar picks based on shared features like wireless connectivity and duplex support. You can review the data to find a printer that better suits your volume or space requirements.
Our top pick: Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer.
How each alternative compares
Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
The Lexmark MS431dw replaces color output with reliable monochrome printing. It weighs 20.6 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the CS331dw at 35.5 pounds. Both models share wireless and Ethernet connectivity, plus automatic duplex printing. The MS431dw is ideal for teams that only need black-and-white documents. You save space and weight while keeping the same mobile printing features. If color is unnecessary, this compact option reduces physical footprint without sacrificing network integration or two-sided printing capabilities.
Canon imageCLASS Duplex Color Laser Printer
The Canon imageCLASS LBP632Cdw offers color laser printing similar to the Lexmark CS331dw. It weighs 35.3 pounds, nearly identical to the Lexmark’s 35.5 pounds. Both support wireless connectivity and automatic duplex printing. The Canon model is designed for dedicated print-only workflows. It suits home offices or small teams that do not require scanning functions. You get comparable speed and duplexing in a similar form factor. Choose this if you prefer Canon’s color output while maintaining the same wireless mobility and two-sided printing efficiency found in the original Lexmark model.
Brother Compact Color Laser Printer
The Brother HLL3280CDW provides 27 ppm color output, slightly faster than the Lexmark CS331dw’s 26 ppm. It weighs 33.9 pounds, making it marginally lighter than the Lexmark. Both models include wireless and Ethernet connectivity with automatic duplex printing. The Brother unit supports direct cloud integration for modern workflows. You gain a small speed advantage and cloud features while keeping the same duplex and network capabilities. This pick suits small offices needing slightly faster color output and direct cloud access without adding scanning bulk to your desktop setup.
Brother Monochrome Laser Printer with Alexa
The Brother HL-L5210DW focuses on high-volume monochrome printing. It weighs 24.1 pounds, significantly lighter than the CS331dw. Both models support wireless and Ethernet connectivity with automatic duplex printing. The Brother unit excludes color output, targeting offices that prioritize speed and volume over color capabilities. You get a lighter machine built for black-and-white demands. If your workflow relies on text documents and high page counts, this monochrome option reduces weight while maintaining the same duplex and network integration found in the original color model.
Brother Compact Color Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L3295CDW delivers fast color printing with automatic duplexing. It weighs 36.8 pounds, slightly heavier than the Lexmark CS331dw. Both models support wireless and Ethernet connectivity with mobile printing features. The Brother unit is designed for small offices needing quick color output and auto-duplexing. You gain a similar duplex and network setup in a slightly heavier chassis. Choose this if you prioritize fast color results and automatic two-sided printing without needing scanning functions. It mirrors the Lexmark’s dedicated print-only approach with comparable connectivity options.
Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-J4355DW is an inkjet all-in-one, unlike the laser-based Lexmark CS331dw. It weighs 19.6 pounds, much lighter than the Lexmark. Both support wireless connectivity and duplex printing. The Brother model includes scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, which the Lexmark lacks. You gain multifunction versatility in a compact footprint. This pick suits users who need scanning and faxing alongside printing. It differs from the Lexmark by offering broader office functions rather than dedicated color laser performance, making it better for mixed-use home offices.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing secure color printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 26 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, USB, Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
View on Amazon: Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark CS331dw is a compact color laser printer designed for small workgroups. It prints up to 26 pages per minute with automatic two-sided output. The device supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections. It includes a 250-page tray capacity and a single-sheet feeder. This model suits offices needing secure, mobile-friendly printing without scanning functions.
Pros
- Prints up to 26 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided duplex printing
- Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet
- 250-page paper tray capacity
- Includes full-spectrum security architecture
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning
- No integrated scanner unit
- Limited to color laser output only
Good fit if
- You need fast color printing in a small space
- You require secure network printing capabilities
- You want automatic duplex printing without scanning
Skip if
- You need an all-in-one device with scanning
- You require high-volume heavy-duty printing
- You prefer monochrome only output
Verdict: Lexmark CS331dw Compact Color Laser is a focused printing solution for teams that prioritize speed and security over multifunction capabilities. It fits well in compact office environments where wireless mobility and automatic duplexing are essential daily requirements.
Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: Small offices needing wireless monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Black and white
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing
- Use Case
- Office
View on Amazon: Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark MS431dw is a compact monochrome laser printer designed for office environments. It features automatic duplex printing, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. The unit includes a two-line display for monitoring system information and supports mobile printing. With a recommended monthly page volume of 800 to 8,000 pages, it suits small teams needing reliable black-and-white output and wireless flexibility.
Pros
- Automatic two-sided printing reduces paper waste
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for flexible placement
- Compact steel frame fits in tight spaces
- Supports mobile printing and cloud connections
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color capability
- Two-line display limits visual information shown
- Print-only function, no scanner hardware included
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated black-and-white laser printer
- You require wireless connectivity for mobile devices
- You want a compact unit for a small office
Skip if
- You require color printing for documents
- You need an all-in-one device with scanning
- You print more than 8,000 pages monthly
Verdict: The Lexmark MS431dw Monochrome Laser Printer fits small offices that need reliable wireless black-and-white printing without the bulk of an all-in-one. It is ideal for teams prioritizing speed and connectivity over color or scanning features.
Canon imageCLASS Duplex Color Laser Printer
Best for: Dedicated color printing with duplex support
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Single-function (print only)
- Supported Functions
- Print Speed
- 22 ppm (color and black)
- Connectivity
- Wireless
View on Amazon: Canon imageCLASS Duplex Color Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Canon imageCLASS LBP632Cdw is a single-function color laser printer designed for home offices. It prints up to 22 pages per minute in both color and black. The device features automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity. It includes a 250-sheet standard cassette and a multipurpose tray. This model is ENERGY STAR certified and supports Chromebook. It uses Toner 067 for reliable output.
Pros
- Prints up to 22 pages per minute
- Automatic 2-sided printing capability
- Wireless connectivity for mobile printing
- 250-sheet standard paper cassette
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning or copying
- Only includes a 1-year warranty
- Heavier build at 35.3 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast color printing without scanning
- You want automatic two-sided printing
- You use Chromebook devices
Skip if
- You require an all-in-one machine
- You need a lightweight portable unit
- You prefer a longer warranty period
Verdict: Canon imageCLASS LBP632Cdw Color Laser Printer is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed and duplex printing in a dedicated print-only workflow. It suits home offices that do not need scanning features.
Brother Compact Color Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing touchscreen cloud printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 27 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Color Laser Printer Affiliate link
This Brother color laser printer provides print speeds up to 27 pages per minute and automatic double-sided printing for your home or small office. You can connect through Wi-Fi or Ethernet and print from cloud-based applications using the 2.7-inch touchscreen. It suits you if you need color document output without multi-function copy or fax hardware.
Pros
- Print speeds up to 27 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing
- Integrated 2.7-inch touchscreen for cloud app printing
- Wireless and Ethernet network connectivity
Cons
- Weight is 33.9 pounds
- Single-function configuration dedicated to printing
Good fit if
- You need color print speeds up to 27 pages per minute.
- You want to print directly from cloud apps via an integrated 2.7-inch touchscreen.
- You require automatic double-sided printing over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Skip if
- You need a lightweight machine under 30 pounds.
- You only require monochrome text printing.
Verdict: Brother Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer fits small offices that require 27 ppm color output and direct cloud integration. Its automatic two-sided printing and wired Ethernet connection serve multi-user desktop workflows.
Brother Monochrome Laser Printer with Alexa
Best for: High-volume monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- 48 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing
View on Amazon: Brother Monochrome Laser Printer with Alexa Affiliate link
The Brother HL-L5210DW is a monochrome laser printer designed for busy offices. It delivers print speeds up to 48 pages per minute. The unit includes duplex printing and mobile printing features. Connectivity options cover wireless and gigabit Ethernet. Paper capacity starts at 350 sheets total, expandable to 1,390 sheets. This model suits users needing fast, high-volume black-and-white output with strong security features.
Pros
- Fast 48 ppm print speed
- Built-in duplex printing
- Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi
- Expandable paper capacity up to 1,390 sheets
- Triple Layer Security features
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color
- No automatic document feeder listed
- Heavy at 24.1 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome printing
- You want expandable paper capacity
- You require gigabit Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You need color printing
- You require an all-in-one scanner
- You prefer a compact desktop size
Verdict: Brother HL-L5210DW Business Monochrome Laser Printer fits offices prioritizing speed and volume over color or scanning. It delivers reliable black-and-white output for high-demand environments.
Brother Compact Color Laser Printer
Best for: Fast color printing with auto-duplex
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 31 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet, NFC
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic duplex printing
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Color Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother HL-L3295CDW is a single-function color laser printer with automatic duplex printing and a 2.7-inch color touchscreen. It delivers print speeds up to 31 ppm and supports wireless, Ethernet, and NFC connectivity. This model includes Amazon Dash Replenishment for toner management. It suits users who need reliable color output and mobile printing without a scanner.
Pros
- Print speeds up to 31 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing
- Amazon Dash Replenishment compatibility
- 2.7-inch color touchscreen
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning
- No built-in fax capability
- Heavier at 36.8 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast color laser printing
- You want automatic two-sided pages
- You prefer toner subscription services
Skip if
- You require scanning functions
- You need a compact footprint
- You prefer monochrome output
Verdict: The Brother HL-L3295CDW Color Laser Printer fits small offices needing fast color prints and auto-duplexing. It excludes users who require scanning or faxing capabilities.
Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer
Best for: home offices needing fax and duplex scanning
- Print Technology
- Inkjet
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Print Speed
- Up to 20 ppm black / 19 ppm color
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
View on Amazon: Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer Affiliate link
This Brother MFC-J4355DW is a color inkjet all-in-one that prints, copies, scans, and faxes. It features automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity. The INKvestment Tank system includes starter cartridges for approximately 1,800 black pages and 750 color pages. It measures 17.1 inches wide and weighs 19.6 pounds. This compact device suits home offices needing versatile functions and mobile printing support.
Pros
- Supports print, copy, scan, and fax functions
- Includes INKvestment Tank starter cartridges
- Automatic two-sided printing
- Wireless and mobile printing compatibility
Cons
- Uses inkjet technology instead of laser
- Scanner is listed as portable type
- Heavier at 19.6 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fax capabilities
- You want automatic duplex printing
- You prefer inkjet tank efficiency
Skip if
- You require laser print speeds
- You need a desktop scanner
- You want a monochrome device
Verdict: Brother MFC-J4355DW Inkjet All-in-One fits users who need faxing and duplex scanning in a compact footprint. It is less suitable for high-volume offices needing laser durability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer | Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer | Canon imageCLASS Duplex Color Laser Printer | Brother Compact Color Laser Printer | Brother Monochrome Laser Printer with Alexa | Brother Compact Color Laser Printer | Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Inkjet |
| Print Output | Color | Black and white | Color | Color | Monochrome | Color | Color |
| Printer Type | Single-function | not stated | Single-function (print only) | Single-function | not stated | Single-function | All-in-One |
| Supported Functions | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Print, copy, scan, fax | |
| Print Speed | 26 ppm | not stated | 22 ppm (color and black) | 27 ppm | 48 ppm | 31 ppm | Up to 20 ppm black / 19 ppm color |
| Connectivity | Wireless, USB, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Wireless | Wireless, Ethernet | Wireless, Gigabit Ethernet | Wireless, Ethernet, NFC | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided | Automatic two-sided | Automatic 2-sided printing | Automatic | not stated | Automatic duplex printing | Automatic |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner | not stated | Toner 067 / 067 High-Capacity | not stated | Toner | Toner | Tank |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier, Fax |
| Use Case | Office | Office | Office, Home | not stated | Office | not stated | not stated |
| Scanner Type | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable |
| Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning |
| Compatibility | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Alexa | Amazon Dash Replenishment | not stated |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex |
| Dimensions | 16.2 × 9.6 × 15.5 inches | 16.2 × 16.6 × 10.8 inches | 16.5 × 17 × 11.3 inches | 15.7 × 10.8 × 15.7 inches | 15.3 × 14.7 × 10.1 inches | 15.7 × 17.8 × 10.8 inches | 13.5 × 17.1 × 7.1 inches |
| Weight | 35.5 pounds | 20.6 pounds | 35.3 pounds | 33.9 pounds | 24.1 pounds | 36.8 pounds | 19.6 pounds |
| Size | Small-Medium Workgroup | PRINTER | One Size | Standard | One Size | Standard | 1 |
| Color | White/Gray | BLACK | white | White | White | White | White |
| Model | CS331dw | MS431dw | 5159C003 | HLL3280CDW | HLL5210DW | HLL3295CDW | E2BRMFCJ4355DW |
If you also need workshop hardware for material marking, compare kentoktool laser engraver alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative is best for secure color printing?
The Lexmark CS331dw remains the top pick for teams prioritizing security and speed in a compact footprint. It delivers 26 ppm color output with automatic duplexing and wireless mobility. This model fits small offices that need reliable color printing without the bulk of multifunction capabilities. Its focus on security makes it ideal for sensitive document handling.
What is the best budget-friendly monochrome option?
The Lexmark MS431dw serves as the best budget choice for small offices needing reliable black-and-white printing. It weighs 20.6 pounds, making it significantly lighter than color alternatives. This printer offers wireless and Ethernet connectivity with automatic duplexing. It is ideal for teams that prioritize speed and connectivity over color or scanning features.
Does the Canon imageCLASS support duplex printing?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS LBP632Cdw supports automatic duplex printing for dedicated color workflows. It connects via wireless networks and includes mobile printing capabilities. This printer suits home offices that do not require scanning features. Its white design and compact dimensions make it a solid choice for users prioritizing speed and two-sided printing.
Which Brother model supports cloud printing?
The Brother HLL3280CDW supports direct cloud integration and wireless connectivity. It delivers 27 ppm color output with automatic two-sided printing. This model also includes a wired Ethernet connection for multi-user desktop workflows. It fits small offices that require a touchscreen interface and fast color output without the need for scanning functions.
Is there a printer compatible with Alexa?
The Brother HL-L5210DW Business Monochrome Laser Printer is compatible with Alexa. It is designed for offices prioritizing speed and high-volume output. This model delivers reliable black-and-white printing for high-demand environments. It excludes users who require color or scanning capabilities. Its white finish and compact size suit professional office settings.
Which printer offers Amazon Dash Replenishment?
The Brother HL-L3295CDW Color Laser Printer supports Amazon Dash Replenishment for automatic supply ordering. It provides fast color prints with auto-duplexing capabilities. This model excludes users who require scanning or faxing capabilities. It fits small offices needing efficient color output. Its white design and standard size make it suitable for dedicated print-only workflows.
Which alternative includes faxing and duplex scanning?
The Brother MFC-J4355DW Inkjet All-in-One includes faxing and duplex scanning features. It supports wireless and USB connectivity with mobile printing capabilities. This model fits users who need these functions in a compact footprint. It is less suitable for high-volume offices needing laser durability. Its white design and small size suit home offices.