Main points
- The M255dw excels in terms of printing speed, churning out black-and-white documents at a blistering 22 pages per minute (ppm) and color documents at 18 ppm.
- In terms of toner costs, the M255dw has a slight edge with its standard toner cartridges yielding approximately 2,300 pages for black and 1,500 pages for color.
- The M454dw, on the other hand, is better suited for high-volume printing environments and offers additional features such as a larger paper capacity, faster printing speed, and a touchscreen interface.
In the realm of office printing, HP’s Color LaserJet Pro series reigns supreme, offering a plethora of options to meet diverse business requirements. Two standout models, the M255dw and M454dw, present a compelling choice for those seeking a color laser printer that seamlessly integrates with their workflow. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of these two printers, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for specific needs.
Design and Dimensions
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw boasts a compact and sleek design, measuring 14.7 x 14.9 x 10.5 inches (WxDxH) and weighing a mere 26.3 pounds. Its smaller footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained offices or desks. In contrast, the M454dw has a slightly larger form factor at 15.7 x 16.1 x 11.7 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 33.1 pounds. While still suitable for most office environments, it requires slightly more space.
Printing Speed and Volume
The M255dw excels in terms of printing speed, churning out black-and-white documents at a blistering 22 pages per minute (ppm) and color documents at 18 ppm. This makes it a great choice for offices with high-volume printing needs. The M454dw, while still respectable, has a slightly slower printing speed of 27 ppm for black-and-white documents and 22 ppm for color documents. However, it boasts a higher monthly duty cycle of 30,000 pages compared to the M255dw’s 20,000 pages, making it more suitable for heavy-duty workloads.
Paper Handling and Capacity
The M255dw and M454dw both offer a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets via a single input tray. However, the M454dw has the advantage of an optional 550-sheet paper tray, allowing for extended printing sessions without frequent paper replenishment. Both models support various paper sizes and types, including letter, legal, and envelopes.
Connectivity and Features
Both the M255dw and M454dw provide versatile connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. They also support mobile printing via Apple AirPrint, HP ePrint, and Mopria Print Service, making it easy to print directly from smartphones and tablets. Additionally, the M454dw features an intuitive 2.7-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation and control.
Print Quality and Toner Costs
The M255dw and M454dw produce high-quality prints with sharp text and vibrant colors. HP’s ColorSphere toner technology ensures consistent and professional-looking results. In terms of toner costs, the M255dw has a slight edge with its standard toner cartridges yielding approximately 2,300 pages for black and 1,500 pages for color. The M454dw’s high-yield toner cartridges offer a lower cost per page, printing up to 3,000 pages for black and 2,500 pages for color.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Printer
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255dw and M454dw are both excellent color laser printers, but their suitability depends on specific needs. The M255dw is an ideal choice for small offices or individuals who prioritize printing speed and space efficiency. The M454dw, on the other hand, is better suited for high-volume printing environments and offers additional features such as a larger paper capacity, faster printing speed, and a touchscreen interface.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which printer is more energy-efficient?
Both the M255dw and M454dw feature energy-saving features such as auto-off and sleep modes. The M454dw has a slight advantage with its ENERGY STAR certification, indicating its compliance with stringent energy efficiency standards.
Q: Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
HP recommends using genuine HP toner cartridges for optimal performance and reliability. However, some third-party toner cartridges may be compatible with these printers.
Q: Is it possible to upgrade the paper capacity of the M255dw?
No, the paper capacity of the M255dw cannot be upgraded beyond the standard 250 sheets. However, the M454dw offers an optional 550-sheet paper tray for increased capacity.