HP LaserJet Pro MFP M236sdw

HP LaserJet Pro MFP M236sdw

HP LaserJet Pro MFP M236sdw is priced at Kes 39,000  here at Novelty Tech Solution in Nairobi, Kenya

Overview & Key Features

The HP M236sdw is part of HP’s “Pro” series, targeting users who need reliability and core features without a high price tag. The “sdw” in the name stands for:

• s: Scan (to email, network folder, etc.)

• d: Duplex (automatic double-sided printing)

• w: Wireless (Wi-Fi connectivity)

It’s a workhorse for everyday document tasks like reports, contracts, letters, and forms.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Key Advantages

1. Fast Print Speed: At 30 ppm, it’s very quick for its class, making short work of multi-page documents.

2. Automatic Duplexing: Saves paper by printing on both sides automatically, a crucial feature for professional documents.

3. Strong Wireless Features: The wireless connectivity is robust and supports easy mobile printing from phones and tablets via the HP Smart App and Apple AirPrint.

4. Flatbed Scanner: Unlike some competitors that use a Document Feeder (ADF) as the only scanning glass, the M236sdw has a dedicated flatbed. This is superior for scanning books, thick objects, or fragile documents.

5. Compact Footprint: Its relatively small size makes it easy to fit on a desk or in a small workspace.

6. Cost-Effective: The upfront cost is typically low, making it an attractive entry point for laser MFPs.

Limitations & Considerations

1. No Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): This is the biggest drawback. You must lift the scanner lid and place each page individually to copy or scan multi-page documents. This is extremely time-consuming for anything more than a few pages. If you regularly copy/scan multi-page reports, you need a model with an ADF (like the HP M283cdw).

2. Basic Display: The small, non-touchscreen text LCD is functional but less intuitive to navigate than a color touchscreen.

3. Toner Costs: Like most laser printers, the upfront cost is low, but the replacement toner cartridges (HP 138A/138X) are relatively expensive. The High-Yield (138X) cartridge offers a better cost-per-page.

4. Paper Capacity: A 150-sheet input tray is standard for this size but may require frequent refilling in a busy office.

5. Fax Function: While it includes a fax modem, the use of fax is declining in favor of digital scanning and email.

Who Should Buy This Printer?

• Small Offices or Home Offices that primarily need to print text-based documents.

• Users who print frequently but in small batches and value speed.

• Anyone who needs a reliable, network-connected laser printer with scanning capabilities for single-page items (like contracts, IDs, or signed forms).

• Users who strongly want automatic two-sided printing.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

• Users who need to copy/scan multi-page documents: The lack of an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) is a deal-breaker. Look at the HP M283cdw or similar.

• Those who need color printing: This is a black & white only printer. For color, consider an HP Color LaserJet like the HP 3600k series or an inkjet like the HP Smart Tank series for high-volume color.

• High-volume printing environments: The monthly duty cycle is low to medium. For heavier use, a more robust model like an HP M400 series is better.

• Users on a very tight consumables budget: Calculate the cost-per-page of toner before buying. Sometimes ink tank printers can be cheaper for very high text-only volume, though they are slower.

Verdict: The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M236sdw is a capable and fast monochrome all-in-one laser printer let down significantly by its lack of an automatic document feeder. It is an excellent choice if your scanning needs are minimal and your priority is fast, duplex, wireless printing. If scanning multi-page documents is a frequent task, you should immediately consider a model with an ADF, even if it costs more.