What To Know
- The M404dn offers a print speed of up to 40 pages per minute (ppm) with a print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi.
- The M404dw has the same print speed and print resolution as the M404dn, ensuring consistent print quality.
- The M404dn is a reliable choice for wired Ethernet environments, while the M404dw offers greater versatility with wireless connectivity and mobile printing options.
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn and M404dw are two highly capable monochrome laser printers designed for small businesses and home offices. While they share many similarities, they also have key differences in terms of connectivity and features. This blog post will delve into the details of each printer, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Connectivity:
- M404dn: The M404dn offers a wired Ethernet connection, allowing for a stable and secure connection to your network. This option is ideal for environments where wireless connectivity is not available or reliable.
- M404dw: The M404dw, on the other hand, features both wired Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity. This versatility gives you the flexibility to connect the printer to your network via either method, depending on your preference and office setup.
Wireless Capabilities:
- M404dn: As mentioned earlier, the M404dn does not have built-in wireless capabilities. If you require wireless printing, you will need to purchase an optional wireless adapter.
- M404dw: The M404dw comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect it to your network wirelessly. This eliminates the need for cables and provides greater placement flexibility.
Mobile Printing:
- M404dn: The M404dn supports mobile printing through HP’s Smart App. This app allows you to print documents, photos, and emails directly from your smartphone or tablet.
- M404dw: The M404dw also supports mobile printing through HP’s Smart App. Additionally, it offers Apple AirPrint and Mopria Print Service compatibility for printing from Apple devices and Android devices, respectively.
Paper Handling:
- M404dn: The M404dn has a standard paper capacity of 300 sheets, which can be expanded to 900 sheets with optional trays. It features a 100-sheet multipurpose tray for printing on special media.
- M404dw: The M404dw also has a standard paper capacity of 300 sheets, but it cannot be expanded. However, it includes a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning and copying multi-page documents.
Print Speed and Quality:
- M404dn: The M404dn offers a print speed of up to 40 pages per minute (ppm) with a print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi. It produces sharp and professional-looking documents.
- M404dw: The M404dw has the same print speed and print resolution as the M404dn, ensuring consistent print quality.
Other Features:
- M404dn: The M404dn includes a control panel with a 2-line LCD display for easy navigation. It also features a built-in USB port for direct printing from a USB drive.
- M404dw: The M404dw has a similar control panel with a 2-line LCD display. However, it offers additional features such as a built-in Ethernet port for wired network connectivity and a USB host port for connecting external storage devices.
Choosing the Right Printer:
The decision between the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn and M404dw depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you require a wired Ethernet connection and do not need wireless capabilities, the M404dn is a cost-effective option. If you prefer wireless connectivity, mobile printing, and a larger paper capacity, the M404dw is the better choice.
The Verdict:
Both the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn and M404dw are excellent monochrome laser printers. The M404dn is a reliable choice for wired Ethernet environments, while the M404dw offers greater versatility with wireless connectivity and mobile printing options. Ultimately, the best printer for you will depend on the specific requirements of your office.
Information You Need to Know
1. Can I use the M404dn with a wireless network?
- Yes, you can use the M404dn with a wireless network by purchasing an optional wireless adapter.
2. What is the difference between AirPrint and Mopria Print Service?
- AirPrint is a printing protocol developed by Apple, while Mopria Print Service is a protocol developed by the Mopria Alliance. Both protocols allow you to print wirelessly from mobile devices.
3. Does the M404dw have a duplex printing feature?
- No, the M404dw does not have a built-in duplex printing feature. You will need to manually flip the pages to print on both sides.
4. What is the maximum paper capacity of the M404dn?
- The maximum paper capacity of the M404dn is 900 sheets with optional trays.
5. Does the M404dw support printing from cloud services?
- Yes, the M404dw supports printing from cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.
