A printer is among the more central pieces of equipment in a family or office setting. If only because so many people use it all day. For many, the printer is a direct factor in productivity, whether for business or homework, and having a good one can make a huge difference to those relying on it.
Many printers are billed as being the one-stop appliance for any productivity application, but that comes at a price. The more a printer is expected to do, the more tasks can be held up if it goes down. Ink, paper, and maintenance are all notoriously expensive, and an office with only one printer for everything may need more of them than usual.
Many offices have tried to limit expenses by switching to a monochrome printer, hoping to take advantage of the higher speeds and reduced cost that come with it. This move may come at a certain loss of visual expression, but many environments have little need of it to begin with.
That said, it’s still important to choose a good printer, even if it is only in black and white. Here are five of the best options to get your office moving faster.
Our Best Product Reviews and Comparisons
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EDITOR’S CHOICE  |
1. HP LaserJet Pro M404dw
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RUNNER UP  |
2. Brother RHLL2390DW
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3. Xerox B210DNI
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4. Canon imageCLASS D570
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5. Samsung Xpress SL-M2835DW/XAA
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1.HP LaserJet Pro M404dw
Product Highlights
This printer is built with security in mind, with both physical and digital features that stop it from being a point of entry for attackers.
Features
- Integrated PIN system prevents unauthorized access
- Automatic duplexing speeds up a workload
- Full mobile printing capabilities
- Simple setup instructions and process
What We Like About HP LaserJet Pro M404dw
In the world of cybercrime, anything connected to your network is a potential open door for hackers. This printer keeps connected devices secure with an integrated firewall and physical security system that stops intruders cold.
What We Don’t Like About HP LaserJet Pro M404dw
The ancillary supplies to this model, such as ink and toner, are extremely specific and not eligible for an ink replenishment subscription.
PROS
- Automatic duplexing
- Strong security features
- 350 sheet input tray
- Saves power with automatic sleep mode
- Up to 40 pages per minute
CONS
- Supplies are costly
- Not eligible for ink replenishment services
2.Brother RHLL2390DW
Product Highlights
A refreshingly affordable printer that doesn’t compromise on productivity.
Features
- 32 pages per minute
- 250 page input tray
- Copy and scan functions
- Handles labels, card stock, envelopes, and more
What We Like About Brother RHLL2390DW
This printer has everything you need for your school or office, including a reasonable price tag.
What We Don’t Like About Brother RHLL2390DW
The wireless connectivity on this printer leaves a lot to be desired.
PROS
- Fast working
- High capacity
- Automatic duplexing
- Copy and scan
- Affordable
CONS
- Poor wireless capabilities
- Screen and controls are too small
3.Xerox B210DNI
Product Highlights
This printer is noted for its reliability and speed even under heavy workloads.
Features
- 1000 page starter cartridge included
- 31 pages per minute
- 600 MHz processor renders complicated documents quickly
- Supports most major file sharing platforms
What We Like About Xerox B210DNI
This printer comes preloaded with 1000 pages of ink just to get you started and has a processor that can read heavy files in a hurry.
What We Don’t Like About Xerox B210DNI
This is a single-function machine and does not have the functions most offices require such as copy, scan, or fax.
PROS
- Large input tray
- Quick working
- 1000 free pages of ink
- Highly reliable
- File Sharing supported
CONS
- Minimal integrated interface or controls
- No secondary functions.
4.Canon imageCLASS D570
Product Highlights
Canon offers a fully customizable experience with a number of dedicated controls and the capacity of a much larger printer.
Features
- 250 sheet input tray
- 28 pages per minute
- Mobile and web-based printing enabled
- Copy and scan capable
What We Like About Canon imageCLASS D570
This printer moves quickly, readying a full page of print in less than ten seconds.
What We Don’t Like About Canon imageCLASS D570
Wireless connectivity on this machine is decidedly lackluster.
PROS
- ID card scanning converts cards to one sided document
- Large input tray
- Supports latest Windows and iOS
- Multiple cloud printing services accepted
- Highly detailed control panel
CONS
- Poor wireless connectivity
- Relatively low output at less than 30 pages per minute
5.Samsung Xpress SL-M2835DW/XAA
Product Highlights
Connectivity is the name of the game with this machine, featuring multiple wireless input methods to keep you going even without the internet.
Features
- Amazon Dash subscription
- 29 pages per minute
- Near-field communication printing
- Easy cartridge access
What We Like About Samsung Xpress SL-M2835DW/XAA
This printer has been designed with Samsung’s proprietary EcoInk driver to make your cartridges last longer. When they do run down, Amazon Dash will be there with the right ink, on time, every time.
What We Don’t Like About Samsung Xpress SL-M2835DW/XAA
This printer has low output and is single function, so you will need another machine to copy, scan, or fax.
PROS
- NFC printing supported from any device
- Large input and output capacity at 150+ pages in each bin
- Highly economical ink usage
- Amazon Dash ink replenishment enabled
- Proprietary app allows you to view and manage device statuses from anywhere
CONS
- Single function printer
- No integrated control panel
Final Verdict
Choosing one of these printers can help you make the switch from a costly color printer to a budget-friendly monochrome model. With only one ink cartridge and generally simpler interfaces, black and white printers can be the key to cutting costs and saving time around your school or place of business.
If you are looking to get even more savings out of your printer upgrade, experienced users often recommend selecting a laser printer over an inkjet. Even in black and white, the laser printer will see decidedly more efficient ink usage and prevent unsightly streaking or smudging as you print.
Whichever printer you get, it is always worth a second look to make certain that all devices in your place of business are compatible. Read the instructions carefully during setup to prevent future headaches and fouled up print jobs at critical moments.