How We Found the HP LaserJet Pro M404n Perfect for Our Office Needs
When it comes to powering a busy office with reliable, efficient printing, the HP LaserJet Pro M404n monochrome Printer with built-in ethernet (W1A52A) caught our attention as a strong contender. We had the chance to put this compact yet robust printer through its paces, and in this review, we’ll share how it handled everything from high-speed print jobs to network sharing and security. Designed to keep business moving forward without draining resources, the M404n promises not just productivity but also peace of mind with its built-in security features and energy-saving technologies. Join us as we explore whether this monochrome laser printer lives up to the hype and suits the demands of modern workplaces.
Overview of the HP LaserJet Pro M404n and Our Initial Impressions
From the moment we set up this monochrome laser printer, it was clear that it’s designed with business efficiency in mind. Its fast print speeds-up to 40 pages per minute-and rapid first-page-out time help us power through large print tasks without delay. The 250-sheet input tray reduces interruptions, letting us stay focused on pressing work. Compact enough to fit neatly in a shared office corner, this device strikes a balance between space-saving design and reliable performance. What truly stands out is the built-in Ethernet connectivity, which streamlines printing across our network and simplifies resource sharing for our entire team.
Security features are another major plus. with HP Wolf Pro Security embedded in the printer hardware, firmware, and OS, we feel confident that sensitive company data remains protected from cyber threats. Additionally, this model embraces sustainability by cutting energy use by up to 18% over previous versions through HP EcoSmart toner and Auto-On/auto-Off technology. The trusted Original HP 58A/58X toner cartridges help avoid wasteful reprints and service calls, ensuring dependable quality throughout its lifespan.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 40 pages per minute |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | Built-in Ethernet for seamless networking |
| Energy Savings | Up to 18% less energy consumption |
| Security | HP Wolf Pro Security protection |
it’s a well-rounded printer that fits perfectly into small to mid-sized office environments. We’re impressed by its blend of speed, security, and eco-friendliness.
Design and build Quality That Stands Up to Everyday Use
From the moment we unpacked this device, its compact and sturdy construction made a strong impression. Designed to fit seamlessly into shared workspaces, its minimal footprint doesn’t compromise on durability. The all-black chassis feels robust, standing up well to frequent handling in a busy office environment. This printer’s build quality clearly reflects thoughtful engineering, with clean lines and a solid-feeling paper tray that holds up to 250 sheets, reducing the need for constant refills during high-volume tasks.
Beyond its physical resilience, the design integrates smart features that enhance everyday use without adding complexity. the built-in Ethernet port ensures reliable network sharing, and HP’s Auto-On/auto-Off technology optimizes power consumption without any manual input.Notably, the use of original HP 58A/58X toner cartridges not only guarantees consistent print quality but also helps minimize service interruptions. Here’s a quick overview of key build and design highlights:
- Compact size: Saves office space while providing full functionality
- Durable paper tray: Holds 250 sheets for extended productivity
- Energy efficient: Saves up to 18% energy with eco-smart technologies
- Robust network capabilities: Built-in Ethernet for seamless sharing
- Trusted toner cartridges: Designed to avoid reprints and wasted supplies
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Compact Dimensions | Fits easily into any shared workspace |
| 250-Sheet Input Tray | Supports high-volume printing without frequent reloads |
| Auto-On/Auto-Off | Reduces energy usage automatically |
| Ethernet Connectivity | Enables seamless network sharing |
Printing performance and Speed in Real-World Scenarios
In our daily office environment, the device impresses with its ability to maintain high output without compromising print quality. The first page emerges rapidly, helping us kickstart tasks promptly, while sustained print speeds of up to 40 pages per minute keep us ahead during large batch jobs. The 250-sheet input tray minimizes interruptions, allowing us to focus on work instead of constant refills. Whether printing text documents, proposals, or invoices, this monochrome printer delivers crisp and consistent results that stand up to professional standards.
Network printing is streamlined thanks to the built-in Ethernet connection, facilitating easy resource sharing across our team without lag or delays. Its efficient energy management also stood out - energy savings of up to 18% compared to previous models mean it’s not only fast but also environmentally conscious. Below is a quick overview of performance highlights we observed during testing:
| Feature | Performance | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 40 ppm | handles high volume without slowdown |
| First Page Out | Quick startup time | Saves time on urgent prints |
| Input Tray Capacity | 250 sheets | Reduces refilling frequency |
| Connectivity | Built-in Ethernet | Seamless network sharing |
Check Current Price and Availability
Exploring Connectivity Options with Built-in Ethernet
The inclusion of built-in Ethernet makes networking straightforward and reliable for any office environment. This feature allows us to seamlessly connect the printer to our existing wired local area network (LAN), providing stable and consistent access for multiple users. Unlike wireless connections that might fluctuate, the Ethernet connectivity ensures fast data transfer and reduced latency, which is critical when printing high volumes or handling sensitive business documents. With this wired setup, sharing the printer across departments becomes effortless, enhancing collaboration without network interruptions.
Along with sharing resources efficiently, the Ethernet connection supports advanced security protocols embedded in the printer’s hardware and firmware, helping to protect confidential company data from cyber threats. We also appreciate how easy it is to integrate this printer into our IT infrastructure while maintaining high levels of security compliance. The compact design ensures it fits neatly alongside workstations without sacrificing connectivity or performance. Below is a quick snapshot of the key connectivity benefits:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Built-in Ethernet | Reliable, wired connection for stable printing |
| Network Sharing | multiple users can print effortlessly |
| Enhanced Security | Protects against cyberattacks via hardware-level safeguards |
| Compact Size | Saves valuable desk space without connectivity compromise |
Discover the Connectivity Advantage Today
User Experience and Ease of Setup from Our Perspective
setting up this printer was straightforward and hassle-free. Thanks to its built-in Ethernet capability, integrating it into our office network was seamless, allowing multiple users to access and share resources without interruptions. The initial installation guided us through driver downloads and network configuration swiftly, with intuitive prompts making the process easy even for those less tech-savvy. Once connected,we noticed the impressively fast first page out time and consistent print speeds,which kept our workflow uninterrupted throughout the day.
From daily use to energy management, this printer excels in convenience. Its compact design fits neatly in our workspace without crowding it, while the 250-sheet input tray reduces the frequency of paper reloads. Energy-saving features like Auto-On/Auto-Off technology and HP EcoSmart toner contribute to a greener office routine, cutting down on waste and electricity use. Plus, the reliable Original HP toner cartridges minimize print errors and service interventions, helping us stay productive with minimal downtime.
| feature | Our Experience |
|---|---|
| Network Integration | Simple,fast setup via Ethernet |
| Print Speed | Up to 40 ppm,no lag detected |
| Paper Capacity | 250 sheets,reduces refills |
| Energy Efficiency | Saves up to 18% energy |
| Space Usage | Compact footprint fits office well |
Check Current Price & Availability
Maintenance, Consumables, and Cost Efficiency
Keeping operational costs low while maintaining reliable print quality is crucial for any busy office environment, and this model excels in that regard. The use of Original HP 58A and 58X toner cartridges ensures consistent output without the frustration of frequent reprints or service interruptions. Thanks to the embedded firmware protections, the printer recognizes only genuine HP cartridges, which reduces the risk of hardware damages and helps maintain optimal performance over time. Additionally, the built-in 250-sheet input tray minimizes frequent paper refills, allowing us to focus on work rather than printer maintenance.
Energy efficiency is another major highlight, with this device designed to consume up to 18% less power compared to previous models, largely due to HP’s EcoSmart toner and Auto-On/Auto-off technology. This not only supports environmental obligation but also contributes to noticeable savings on electricity bills. Below we’ve summarized some key maintenance and cost-related specs:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Toner Cartridge | Original HP 58A/58X |
| Input Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Energy Savings | Up to 18% less power |
| Warranty | 1-year limited hardware warranty |
| Support | 24/7 free HP Web support |
the blend of durable hardware, trusted consumables, and smart power management makes this printer a highly cost-efficient asset for any office striving for productivity without excess expenditure.
Our Final Thoughts and Who Should Consider This Printer
after thoroughly evaluating this monochrome laser printer,we believe it’s an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses that prioritize speed,security,and efficiency.Its ability to churn out up to 40 pages per minute, combined with a 250-sheet input tray, means it can handle heavy workloads without breaking a sweat. The built-in Ethernet connectivity simplifies network sharing, making it ideal for offices where multiple users need reliable access. Plus, the emphasis on security with HP Wolf Pro ensures sensitive data stays protected from cyber threats, a crucial feature in today’s digital environment.
Environmentally conscious teams will also appreciate the energy-saving features, which reduce power consumption by up to 18% compared to previous models. The compact footprint fits well in both home offices and busy workspaces, without sacrificing performance. Using genuine HP toner cartridges not only ensures consistent print quality but also minimizes maintenance headaches and wasted supplies. if your workflow demands dependable, fast, and secure black-and-white printing, this model is a solid investment.
| Key Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 40 pages/minute to keep pace with busy workloads |
| Security | HP Wolf Pro safeguards data at hardware and firmware levels |
| Energy Efficiency | Saves up to 18% power consumption compared to older models |
| Connectivity | Built-in ethernet enables straightforward network sharing |
| Input Capacity | 250-sheet tray reduces frequent refills during large print jobs |
- ideal for: Small & medium businesses
- Best suited for: Offices needing fast, monochrome document printing
- Perfect if you value: Data security and energy efficiency
- Not for: Users requiring color prints or multifunction devices
Pros & Cons of the HP LaserJet Pro M404n
After putting the HP LaserJet Pro M404n through its paces in our office, we’ve gathered some clear insights. Here’s a balanced look at the features that impressed us and the few areas where we saw room for improvement.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast print speeds: Up to 40 pages per minute kept us moving without delay. | Monochrome only: No color printing,so it’s limited for creative or marketing tasks. |
| Reliable security: HP Wolf Pro Security gave us confidence that sensitive data stays protected. | Built-in Ethernet only: No wireless connectivity means reliance on wired networks. |
| Energy efficiency: Saves up to 18% energy compared to older models, aligning with our eco-conscious goals. | Compact but not tiny: Fits well on our shared desk but can feel bulky in very tight spaces. |
| generous input tray: 250 sheets allowed us to print large batches without constant refills. | No touchscreen interface: Basic control panel means extra clicks to access advanced settings. |
| Trusted toner cartridges: Original HP 58A/58X cartridges reduced reprints and maintenance issues. | cartridge restrictions: Printer blocks non-HP chips,which could limit cost-saving alternatives. |
the HP LaserJet Pro M404n shines in productivity, security, and efficiency, all critical for our day-to-day office workflow. While the lack of wireless and color printing might be drawbacks for some teams, for us, its strengths are a clear win. It’s a dependable workhorse that fits our business needs without fuss.
the HP LaserJet Pro M404n has proven to be a reliable and efficient workhorse that fits seamlessly into our office environment. Its robust security features, speedy performance, and energy-saving design allow us to focus less on printing frustrations and more on what truly matters-growing our business. The built-in Ethernet capability makes sharing resources effortless, and its compact size means it doesn’t crowd our workspace. For any office looking for consistent quality and dependable output, this monochrome printer is definitely worth considering.
Ready to upgrade your office printing experience? Explore the HP LaserJet Pro M404n today and see how it can keep your business moving forward: Check it out on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. All images belong to Amazon











