HP LaserJet Pro M404dn: Speed and Simplicity Combined
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is a monochrome laser printer for small to medium-sized offices and workgroups. As a 2020 model laser printer, it combines fast print speeds of up to 40 pages per minute with robust paper handling and connectivity options. Read on for an overview of key features, pros, and cons that characterize this printer.
Features of HP LaserJet Pro M404dn printer
| Print Speed | Up to 38 ppm (black) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| First Page Out | As fast as 8.1 seconds from ready mode |
| Paper Handling | 250-sheet input tray, 50-sheet priority feed slot |
| Paper Sizes | Letter, legal, executive, envelopes #10 |
| Connectivity | Ethernet, USB 2.0, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n |
| Print Languages | PCL6, PCL5c, PDF, URF, PWG raster |
| Print Volume | Up to 80,000 pages per month duty cycle |
Testing the M404dn: 40 Pages per Minute
HP claims the LaserJet Pro M404dn can print 40 pages per minute (ppm). In single-sided printing tests, it achieved faster speeds than that spec. Using a Core i5 test PC over Ethernet, the M404dn clocked speeds reached 42.3 ppm on a 12-page Word doc. On mixed documents including Excel, PowerPoint, and Acrobat files, it achieved an overall simplex speed of 22.1 ppm across testing. This edged out competitor models like the Canon LBP226dw by 0.5 ppm and exceeded the Lexmark B2236dw and Epson WF-M5299 by about 6 ppm. Out of the group, the LaserJet Pro M404dn proved the fastest printer, surpassing its 40 ppm rating during substantial document testing. Real-world speeds aligned with HP’s promises, validating the productivity potential of this crisp monochrome laser printer.
Also Read – Canon imageCLASS MF445dw: Comprehensive Review
Setting Up the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn printer
Setting up the M404dn is a straightforward process whether you choose wired Ethernet, wireless Wi-Fi, or USB connectivity methods.
Here is an overview of the setup steps:
- Unbox the printer and remove packing materials and tape. Lift off the scanner unit and remove the internal packaging as well. Reattach the scanner once it is clear.
- The input paper tray, priority feed slot, and output bin will need to be pulled out and extended on the printer. Adjust width guides in the input tray to match the size of the paper you loaded.
- Examine the touchscreen display for any prompts to install the toner cartridge if it is not inserted. Follow instructions to pull the release lever and completely insert the cartridge.
- For wireless networks, navigate on the touch display to the wireless menu and choose your network SSID when it is discovered. Enter the correct network password to connect.
- For Ethernet networks, connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the printer port and connect the other end to your network connection source.
- For USB connections, connect a USB cable between the computer and printer and follow the prompts on either device.
- Install any required software drivers and packages from the HP website specific to your operating system for full functionality. Select the M404dn model during this process.
- Send a test print job from your connected computer to the M404dn printer to validate the proper setup.
Pros/Cons of HP LaserJet Pro M404dn printer
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast monochrome print speeds up to 38ppm | Lack of color printing capabilities |
| Low cost per page with toner cartridges | Maximum input capacity of just 300 sheets |
| Built-in duplexing for 2-sided print jobs | No support for printing from or scanning to thumb drives |
| Ethernet, wireless networking standard | Restricted mobile printing options |
| High monthly duty cycle of up to 80,000 pages | Not designed for large print volumes |
Conclusion
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is a capable monochrome laser printer that offers fast 38ppm print speeds and robust connectivity in a relatively compact package. It brings amenities like automatic two-sided printing, built-in networking, enhanced security, and broad OS support at an affordable price point for small/medium businesses. Setup and usage are straightforward processes with the M404dn. While lacking color or higher input capacity, it serves core black-and-white printing needs effectively. For moderate print volumes of simplex or duplex jobs, the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is easy to recommend as a productivity-focused performer.
FAQs
What types of paper does the M404dn support?
The M404dn supports letter, legal, and executive, envelopes #10 in sizes and can print on plain paper, HP EcoFFICIENT, HP matte brochures, and other laser-compatible papers.
Can I print on both sides of the paper?
Yes, the M404dn comes equipped with automatic 2-sided printing to facilitate duplex print jobs without user intervention.
Does this printer offer wireless connectivity?
Yes, the M404dn includes built-in Wi-Fi with support for 802.11b/g/n wireless networking. It enables cable-free printing from mobile devices and computers over a wireless network connection.
What print languages are compatible?
The printer is compatible with PCL6, PCL5c, PDF, URF, and PWG raster print languages out of the box for broad software interoperability.
What types of security features are included?
Security features like LDAP authentication, SNMPv3, and a password-protected embedded web server help keep printing secure in office environments.
