Say Goodbye to Jams, Hello to the HP LaserJet Pro M404dw

Why you should trust this guide

I have spent years researching office technology and writing buying guides for TheTestedHub, focusing on printers that balance speed, reliability, and total cost of ownership. For this guide, I analyzed manufacturer specifications, owner reviews, and professional feedback from IT support forums. I did not physically test these printers in a lab, but I evaluated each model against a consistent set of criteria that matter most to real users: print speed, connectivity options, paper handling, security features, and long-term value.

My goal is to help you avoid common pitfalls, such as choosing a printer with high toner costs or limited mobile support. I prioritize products that have proven track records in small offices, home offices, and workgroups. Every recommendation here is backed by the features listed on Amazon and the manufacturer’s official documentation, not by speculation or hype. I also deliberately include honest limitations for each model so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

How we researched

To evaluate these wireless laser printers, I established a set of criteria that reflect real-world usage. The most important factor was print speed and quality for standard text documents, since laser printers are primarily used for black-and-white office work. I also weighed connectivity versatility, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, mobile app support, and direct wireless options like Wi-Fi Direct or NFC. Paper handling capacity and automatic duplex printing were critical for productivity, especially in shared environments. Security features, such as secure boot and encrypted data transmission, were considered for businesses handling sensitive information. Finally, I assessed the total cost of ownership by looking at toner yields and the availability of high-yield cartridges.

I cross-referenced each product’s listed specifications with user-reported experiences from verified Amazon purchases and tech community discussions. I looked for consistent praise and recurring complaints, such as paper jams, driver issues, or poor mobile app performance. No product was included unless it had a strong overall satisfaction rating and a clear set of features that matched its intended category. I did not conduct any physical testing, nor did I measure speeds or yields myself. Instead, I relied on the stated figures from the manufacturer and the consensus of long-term owners to form my recommendations.

HP LaserJet Pro M404dw – Best Overall

The HP LaserJet Pro M404dw is built to keep your business moving forward with a print speed of 40 pages per minute and a resolution of 600 dpi. This combination delivers crisp text and clear graphics, making it ideal for professional documents, contracts, and marketing materials. The printer comes with a 250-sheet input tray and automatic two-sided printing, so you can handle large jobs without constantly refilling paper. The integrated Ethernet port provides a reliable wired connection for shared office networks, while HP’s Smart App lets you print from Android, iOS, or Windows devices with ease.

Security is a standout feature here. HP Wolf Pro Security protects company data and safeguards against cyberattacks with protections like secure boot and encrypted data transmission. This is a critical advantage for businesses that handle confidential client information or sensitive internal documents. The printer is also designed with enhanced energy efficiency in mind, helping reduce power consumption during idle periods. The overall build quality feels robust, and the straightforward control panel makes daily operation simple.

One honest limitation is that the HP LaserJet Pro M404dw uses a relatively expensive toner cartridge compared to some budget alternatives. While the high yield cartridge can reduce cost per page, the initial purchase price for replacement toner is higher than what you would pay for the Brother or Samsung models. Additionally, the printer lacks a touchscreen display, relying on a two-line LCD and physical buttons, which some users may find less intuitive than a full color screen. For most offices, however, the speed, security, and reliability more than justify the investment.

Brother HL-L2350DW – Best Budget

The Brother HL-L2350DW is a compact monochrome laser printer that prints up to 32 pages per minute, making it one of the fastest budget options available. It supports Wi-Fi Direct for quick mobile printing without needing a network, and the automatic duplex printing feature helps reduce paper waste. The 250-sheet paper capacity is standard for this class, and the included toner cartridge yields up to 3,000 pages, keeping the cost per page impressively low. The printer also offers a USB connection for direct wired use, giving you flexibility in how you set it up.

Setup is straightforward, and the printer is known for its reliable performance over time. The wireless connectivity is stable, and the Brother iPrint&Scan app works well with both Android and iOS devices. The compact footprint means it fits easily on a small desk or shelf. The automatic duplex printing is a welcome feature at this price point, as many budget printers require manual flipping of pages. The printer also includes an HDMI cable in the box, though this is likely a listing error or bonus accessory rather than a standard inclusion.

One honest limitation is that the Brother HL-L2350DW has a lower resolution than some competitors, at 600 dpi, which can result in slightly less sharp text when printing very small fonts. It also lacks an Ethernet port, so it relies entirely on Wi-Fi or USB for connectivity, which may be a problem in offices that require a wired network connection. The paper output tray is small, holding only about 50 sheets, so you will need to clear it frequently during large print jobs. For a home office or light use, these trade-offs are acceptable given the low price.

Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dw – Best Compact

The Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dw packs a 40 page per minute print speed into a footprint of just 13.5 by 12.5 by 9.6 inches, making it one of the smallest high-speed laser printers available. Despite its compact size, it offers wireless connectivity, a 150-sheet tray, and automatic duplex printing. Canon’s mobile app supports AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Canon PRINT, providing versatile compatibility with both Mac and Windows environments. The printer is designed to fit in tight spaces like a home office corner or a small retail counter.

Print quality is consistent, with sharp black text and solid grayscale graphics. The automatic duplex printing works reliably and helps save paper without slowing down the workflow. The wireless setup is simple, and the printer maintains a stable connection even in mixed-device environments. The Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dw is also relatively quiet during operation, which is a plus for shared workspaces. The 150-sheet input tray is adequate for light to moderate use, but you will need to refill it more often than with the HP or Lexmark models.

One honest limitation is the small paper tray capacity. At only 150 sheets, it is not suitable for high-volume printing without frequent refills. The printer also lacks an Ethernet port, so it relies on Wi-Fi or USB for connectivity, which may be a drawback in offices that prefer wired networks. The toner cartridge yield is moderate, and the cost per page is slightly higher than the Brother HL-L2350DW. For users who prioritize a small footprint and fast speed over paper capacity, this is a solid choice.

Samsung Xpress SL-M2020W – Best Simple

The Samsung Xpress SL-M2020W is an entry-level laser printer that focuses on ease of use and simplicity. It prints at 21 pages per minute with a 250-sheet capacity, which is generous for a budget model. The standout feature is NFC tap-to-print, which lets you print from compatible smartphones by simply tapping the phone against the printer. While it lacks a duplex unit for automatic two-sided printing, its low price and reliable performance make it a solid choice for occasional home printing or a small home office.

Setup is quick, and the printer works well with both Windows and Mac systems. The included toner cartridge yields up to 1,800 pages per cartridge at 5 percent coverage, which is typical for this class. The printer is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move or store. The Samsung Xpress SL-M2020W also supports Wi-Fi Direct, so you can print from mobile devices without needing a network router. The control panel is minimal, with just a few buttons, which keeps operation straightforward.

One honest limitation is the lack of automatic duplex printing, which means you must manually flip pages to print on both sides. This can be inconvenient and wastes time for any multi-page document. The print speed of 21 pages per minute is slower than the other models in this guide, so it is not ideal for high-volume environments. The printer also uses a relatively small toner cartridge, so you will need to replace it more frequently than with high-yield options. For simple, occasional printing, these limitations are acceptable.

Lexmark B2236dw – Best Small Business

The Lexmark B2236dw offers a print speed of 35 pages per minute, making it a strong contender for small teams that need fast output. It comes with a 250-sheet tray and supports optional expandable paper trays for higher volume. The printer includes standard Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity, giving you multiple ways to integrate it into your network. Mobile printing is supported through the Lexmark Mobile Print app, which works with both iOS and Android devices. The two-line LCD display shows device status and menus, making navigation simple.

Security is a key focus for the Lexmark B2236dw, with features like secure print release that requires a PIN code before printing confidential documents. This is valuable for small businesses that handle sensitive client information or internal reports. The compact dimensions make it easy to place on a shared desk or a small table. The printer also supports Wi-Fi Direct for direct mobile printing without a network. The expandable paper trays allow you to increase capacity as your team grows, which is a flexible feature not found on most competitors in this price range.

One honest limitation is that the Lexmark B2236dw can be louder during operation than some competitors, which may be distracting in a quiet office. The standard toner cartridge has a moderate yield, and the cost per page is slightly higher than the Brother HL-L2350DW. The two-line LCD display, while functional, is not as intuitive as a full touchscreen, and navigating menus can feel a bit dated. For small businesses that prioritize security and expandability, these trade-offs are manageable.

What to look for

• Print speed: Look for pages per minute (ppm) that match your workload. Faster speeds like 40 ppm are ideal for busy offices, while 21 to 32 ppm works for light use.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is essential for wireless printing from laptops and phones. Ethernet is important for stable wired networks. Wi-Fi Direct or NFC adds convenience for mobile printing without a network.
• Paper handling: A 250-sheet tray is standard for most offices. Automatic duplex printing saves paper and time. Expandable trays are useful for growing teams.
• Security features: Secure boot, encrypted data transmission, and secure print release protect sensitive documents. This is critical for businesses handling confidential information.
• Mobile printing support: Look for AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or a dedicated app from the manufacturer. Compatibility with both iOS and Android is important.
• Toner yield and cost: High-yield cartridges reduce cost per page. Check the page yield and the price of replacement cartridges before buying.
• Footprint and design: Compact models fit in tight spaces. Consider the dimensions and whether the printer will sit on a desk or a shelf.
• Ease of setup: A simple control panel and clear instructions reduce frustration. Models with a two-line LCD are functional, while touchscreens are more intuitive.

The verdict

For most users, the HP LaserJet Pro M404dw is the clear winner because it combines the fastest print speed with robust security features and reliable mobile printing. If your budget is tight, the Brother HL-L2350DW offers excellent value with low cost per page and automatic duplex printing. The Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dw is the best choice if you need a small footprint without sacrificing speed. The Samsung Xpress SL-M2020W is ideal for simple, occasional use where NFC tap-to-print is a convenience. For small businesses that need expandable paper trays and secure print release, the Lexmark B2236dw is a strong option. Choose based on your priority, whether it is speed, budget, size, simplicity, or security.