HP LaserJet Pro M404dw, A Midrange Monochrome Laser Printer

A monochrome workhorse with a
costly appetite for toner

4.0 EXCELLENT

By William Harrel – November 12, 2020

THE BOTTOM LINE

HP’s LaserJet Pro M404dw is a fast single-function monochrome laser that pushes high-quality text and graphics output at a happy clip. Only its expensive taste in toner keeps it from top marks.

MSRP $349.99

PROS

- Speedy, good-looking output
- Robust connectivity and smartphone integration through HP Smart App
- Auto-duplex support
- High volume ratings
- Small footprint, but expandable paper-input capacity

CONS

- Toner is pricey
- Slightly subpar grayscale photo output

HP’s LaserJet Pro M404dw ($349.99) is a print-only monochrome laser printer designed for moderate to heavy output in a small office or workgroup. Like its M404dn sibling reviewed here in August, the M404dw prints well at a fast clip. Both of these LaserJet Pro models hold their own against a crowded field of competitors, including two recent Editors’ Choice recipients, the Canon imageClass LBP226dw, and Epson’s inkjet-based “laser alternative,” the WorkForce Pro WF-M5299. The M404dw’s running costs are somewhat high, and its grayscale photos are a bit below average, but it’s a capable laser worthy of consideration.

Read the entire review at PCMag