Looking Beyond the HP LaserJet Enterprise 5601dn Monochrome Laser Printer? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The hp laserjet enterprise 5601dn monochrome laser printer alternatives you see here share core strengths with the original model. The HP 5601dn delivers fast 52 pages per minute output and robust security features for enterprise workgroups. Its auto two-sided printing and large capacity document feeder streamline high-volume document processing. However, its physical footprint of 16.5 by 17.9 inches may not suit every office layout. Some users might prefer wireless connectivity over the standard Ethernet and USB ports. Others may seek a different brand or a more compact design for smaller teams.
The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the HP 5601dn. Each option offers monochrome printing, ensuring you maintain professional document quality. The list includes models with varying sizes, connectivity options, and feature sets. You can find compact units for limited spaces or robust machines for heavy-duty tasks. Some alternatives include duplex scanning, while others focus on voice control or wireless flexibility. This selection helps you compare practical specs like weight, dimensions, and supported functions. You can identify the best fit for your specific workflow needs without compromising on essential performance metrics.
Our top pick: HP 5601dn Monochrome Laser Printer.
Comparing 6 HP and Brother Alternatives
HP LaserJet Enterprise Monochrome Printer
The HP M611dn offers duplex scanning, which the 5601dn lacks. This feature automates two-sided document digitization for busy offices. It weighs 47.5 pounds, making it heavier than the 38-pound 5601dn. The M611dn prioritizes security and high-volume output. You lose the AI scan workflows found in the newer model. Choose this if you need robust duplex scanning and centralized control. It fits teams that value security features over wireless convenience. The larger footprint may require more desk space. This printer suits workgroups processing large volumes of black-and-white reports with complex scanning needs.
HP LaserJet Enterprise M608n Printer
The HP M608n is a monochrome laser printer designed for high-volume text printing. It differs from the 5601dn by focusing on speed and security without color capabilities. The M608n is larger, measuring 22 inches wide and 24 inches long. It weighs 15.4 pounds, which is lighter than the 5601dn. You give up the advanced AI scan workflows of the newer model. This printer suits busy offices prioritizing speed over wireless flexibility. It is a solid choice for teams needing reliable, high-volume output. The design emphasizes durability for enterprise environments. Choose this if you need a dedicated text printing solution.
Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact all-in-one printer for small offices. It weighs 25 pounds, significantly lighter than the 38-pound 5601dn. This model supports wireless connectivity, which the 5601dn lacks. It offers duplex scanning and mobile printing features. You trade enterprise-grade security and speed for portability and ease of use. The Brother unit is ideal for teams with limited space and moderate volume needs. It provides fast monochrome scanning for small teams. Choose this if you need wireless flexibility and compact design. It suits users who prioritize convenience over high-volume enterprise capabilities.
Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a focused printing solution for voice-controlled monochrome printing. It supports Alexa compatibility, which the 5601dn does not offer. This printer is compact, weighing only 15.6 pounds. It lacks multifunction features like scanning or copying. You gain wireless connectivity and voice control but lose the all-in-one capabilities of the 5601dn. This model suits small offices that only need to produce documents. It prioritizes speed and voice control over complex workflows. Choose this if you need a dedicated printer with smart home integration. It is ideal for users who value simplicity and mobile printing.
HP LaserJet Pro Ethernet Duplex Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is designed for wired network monochrome printing. It weighs 8.35 pounds, much lighter than the 5601dn. This printer offers duplex printing and Ethernet connectivity. It lacks the advanced security features and AI workflows of the enterprise model. The M404dn is space-efficient and suits offices prioritizing wired stability. You trade high-volume capacity for a smaller, more affordable footprint. This printer is ideal for teams needing fast, secure, and reliable monochrome output. Choose this if you value space efficiency and wired connections. It fits users who need basic duplex printing without enterprise-level features.
HP LaserJet Pro 400 Monochrome Printer
The HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401n is a monochrome printer for small offices. It connects via Ethernet and offers high-speed black-and-white printing. This model is smaller and lighter than the 5601dn. It lacks duplex printing and advanced security features. You gain a compact design suitable for limited desk space. The M401n suits users who need reliable, high-speed printing via a wired connection. It is ideal for offices valuing speed and capacity over wireless convenience. Choose this if you need a basic, efficient printing solution. It fits teams that prioritize straightforward, high-volume text output without complex features.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
HP 5601dn Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: high-volume monochrome document processing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Print Speed
- Up to 52 ppm
- Connectivity
- Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB
View on Amazon: HP 5601dn Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet Enterprise 5601dn is a monochrome all-in-one laser printer built for enterprise workgroups. It delivers print speeds up to 52 pages per minute and includes auto two-sided printing and scanning. A 50-sheet legal-size auto document feeder handles large batches efficiently. You get reliable Ethernet and USB connectivity. The unit measures 16.5 by 15.7 by 17.9 inches and weighs 38 pounds.
Pros
- Prints up to 52 pages per minute
- Auto two-sided printing and scanning
- 50-sheet legal-size auto document feeder
- Ethernet and USB connectivity
Cons
- No wireless connectivity listed
- 1-year warranty is standard for the category
- Heavy at 38 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome output for high-volume documents
- You require an auto document feeder for scanning large stacks
- You prefer wired Ethernet connections over wireless
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You require wireless connectivity for mobile devices
- You need a compact desktop footprint
Verdict: HP LaserJet Enterprise 5601dn Monochrome Printer suits workgroups that prioritize speed and wired reliability over wireless flexibility. It is ideal for offices processing large volumes of black-and-white reports.
HP LaserJet Enterprise Monochrome Printer
Best for: high-volume secure monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- Up to 65 ppm
- Connectivity
- Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
- First Page Out
- As fast as 5.1 seconds
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Enterprise Monochrome Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet Enterprise M611dn is a monochrome laser printer built for high-volume offices. It delivers print speeds up to 65 ppm with a first page out time of 5.1 seconds. The device features a 650-sheet input tray and a 4.3-inch color touchscreen. Its security includes self-repairing code via HP Sure Start. This model suits teams needing fast, secure, and energy-efficient document handling.
Pros
- Print speeds reach 65 ppm
- First page out in 5.1 seconds
- 650-sheet total input tray capacity
- HP Sure Start self-repair security
- 4.3-inch color touchscreen interface
Cons
- Monochrome output only
- No wireless connectivity listed
- No automatic document feeder
Good fit if
- You need fast print speeds for large teams
- You prioritize security and self-repairing firmware
- You want centralized management via HP Web JetAdmin
Skip if
- You require color printing
- You need wireless or mobile printing
- You want an all-in-one with scanning
Verdict: The HP M611dn High-Speed Monochrome Laser is a robust choice for busy offices that need speed and security. It fits teams that value high-volume output and centralized control over wireless convenience.
HP LaserJet Enterprise M608n Printer
Best for: High-volume monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- Up to 61 ppm
- Connectivity
- Ethernet
- Dimensions
- 24 × 22 × 20 inches
- Weight
- 15.4 pounds
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Enterprise M608n Printer Affiliate link
The HP M608n is a monochrome laser printer built for high-volume office environments. It delivers print speeds of up to 61 pages per minute, ensuring fast document output. The unit features a 650-sheet total input tray capacity to reduce frequent paper reloading. Security is a core component, with embedded features like HP Sure Start for self-repair from hacks. It includes a 2.7-inch LCD control panel for local navigation. This model suits teams needing speed and robust security without color capabilities.
Pros
- Print speeds reach 61 pages per minute
- 650-sheet total input tray capacity
- HP Sure Start self-repair security feature
- 2.7-inch LCD control panel
Cons
- Prints monochrome only, no color output
- No automatic duplex printing capability
- No wireless or network connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You need high-speed monochrome printing
- You prioritize enterprise-grade security features
- You require a large paper input capacity
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You require automatic double-sided printing
- You need wireless connectivity
Verdict: The HP M608n Monochrome Laser Printer fits busy offices that prioritize speed and security over color or wireless convenience. It is a solid choice for high-volume text printing.
Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: Small offices needing fast monochrome scanning
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner cartridge
View on Amazon: Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome laser all-in-one designed for small offices. It prints at 36 ppm and scans at up to 23.6 ipm. The 50-page auto document feeder handles multi-page tasks efficiently. It supports dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connections. The included mobile app allows for remote management. This model suits teams needing reliable printing and scanning in a small footprint.
Pros
- Prints at 36 ppm for fast document output
- 50-page auto document feeder for batch scanning
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Supports duplex scanning and printing
Cons
- Scanner type listed as portable in attributes
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- No mention of automatic two-sided scanning in key specs
Good fit if
- You need a compact printer for a small office
- You require fast scanning with an auto document feeder
- You want dual-band wireless connectivity
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You prefer a larger flatbed scanner over a feeder
- You need high-volume industrial printing speeds
Verdict: Brother DCP-L2640DW Compact MFP fits small teams needing fast monochrome printing and efficient scanning. It works well for offices with limited space and moderate volume needs.
Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer
Best for: voice-controlled monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a single-function monochrome laser printer designed for home offices and small teams. It delivers print speeds up to 36 ppm with automatic duplex printing. Connectivity includes dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB. The unit features a 250-sheet paper tray and measures 14 by 14.2 by 7.2 inches. It weighs 15.6 pounds and supports Alexa compatibility for voice-controlled printing.
Pros
- Print speeds up to 36 ppm
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Alexa compatibility for voice commands
- 250-sheet main paper tray capacity
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning or copying
- No built-in touchscreen display
- No automatic document feeder for batch scanning
Good fit if
- You need fast, reliable black and white printing
- You want to use voice commands via Alexa
- You prefer a compact footprint for small desks
Skip if
- You require scanning or copying functions
- You need color printing capabilities
- You want a large touchscreen interface
Verdict: Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer is a focused printing solution for users who prioritize speed and voice control over multifunction features. It suits small offices that only need to produce documents.
HP LaserJet Pro Ethernet Duplex Printer
Best for: wired network monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- 40 ppm
- Connectivity
- Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic 2-sided
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Pro Ethernet Duplex Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is a monochrome laser printer built for shared office environments. It delivers print speeds of up to 40 pages per minute and includes automatic two-sided printing to save paper. The unit features built-in Ethernet for reliable network sharing and includes security features like instant threat notifications. It occupies a compact footprint with dimensions of 17.4 by 10.8 by 18.3 inches, making it suitable for tight workspaces.
Pros
- Print speeds reach 40 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Built-in Ethernet ensures stable network connection
- Compact design fits in shared work areas
Cons
- No wireless connectivity options available
- Only supports monochrome output
- Includes only a one-year limited hardware warranty
Good fit if
- You need fast, reliable wired network printing
- You want to reduce paper usage with auto-duplex
- You require a compact monochrome laser printer
Skip if
- You require wireless printing capabilities
- You need color printing for graphics
- You want a longer than one-year warranty
Verdict: HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Monochrome Laser Printer suits offices that prioritize wired stability and speed over wireless flexibility. It is a solid choice for teams needing fast, secure, and space-efficient monochrome printing.
HP LaserJet Pro 400 Monochrome Printer
Best for: small offices needing fast wired monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- Up to 35 ppm
- Connectivity
- USB 2.0
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner cartridge
- Dimensions
- 10.5 × 14.2 × 14.4 inches
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Pro 400 Monochrome Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401n is a monochrome laser printer designed for small to medium office environments. It delivers print speeds of up to 35 pages per minute and features a 250-sheet input capacity. Connectivity relies on USB 2.0 rather than wireless options. This renewed unit includes a toner cartridge and is backed by a 90-day warranty, making it a practical option for users who prioritize wired stability and high-volume output.
Pros
- Prints up to 35 pages per minute
- 250-sheet input paper capacity
- Includes toner cartridge and power cable
- Professionally refurbished and tested
Cons
- USB 2.0 connectivity only, no wireless
- Monochrome output only
- 90-day warranty period
Good fit if
- You need a fast monochrome printer for a small office
- You prefer wired USB connections over wireless
- You want a professionally refurbished unit with included toner
Skip if
- You require wireless printing capabilities
- You need color printing options
- You want a longer standard warranty
Verdict: The HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401n Monochrome Printer fits users who need reliable, high-speed black-and-white printing via a wired connection. It is ideal for offices that value speed and capacity over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HP 5601dn Monochrome Laser Printer | HP LaserJet Enterprise Monochrome Printer | HP LaserJet Enterprise M608n Printer | Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer | HP LaserJet Pro Ethernet Duplex Printer | HP LaserJet Pro 400 Monochrome Printer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | All-in-One | not stated | not stated | not stated | Single-function | not stated | not stated |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan | not stated | not stated | Print, copy, scan | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Print Speed | Up to 52 ppm | Up to 65 ppm | Up to 61 ppm | 36 ppm | 36 ppm | 40 ppm | Up to 35 ppm |
| Connectivity | Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB | Ethernet | Ethernet | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Ethernet | USB 2.0 |
| Duplex Printing | Auto 2-sided | Automatic two-sided | not stated | not stated | Automatic | Automatic 2-sided | not stated |
| First Page Out | not stated | As fast as 5.1 seconds | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Ink/Toner System | Cartridge | Toner | not stated | Toner cartridge | Toner cartridge | Toner | Toner cartridge |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing | not stated | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing | not stated |
| Use Case | Office | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Scanner Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | Portable | Portable | not stated | not stated |
| Scanning | not stated | not stated | not stated | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | not stated | not stated |
| Compatibility | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Alexa | not stated | not stated |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex | not stated | Duplex | Duplex | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 15.7 × 16.5 × 17.9 inches | 17 × 15 × 18.3 inches | 24 × 22 × 20 inches | 15.7 × 16.1 × 12.5 inches | 14.2 × 14 × 7.2 inches | 10.8 × 17.4 × 18.3 inches | 10.5 × 14.2 × 14.4 inches |
| Weight | 38 pounds | 47.5 pounds | 15.4 pounds | 25 pounds | 15.6 pounds | 8.35 pounds | not stated |
| Size | one size | Standard | Printer | Standard | Standard | One Size | 15 x 14.06 x 8.5 in |
| Model | 5601dn | M611dn | M608n | DCPL2640DW | HLL2460DW | W1A53A | CZ195A |
| Color | not stated | White | Light Gray | Black | Black | White | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers duplex scanning like the M611dn?
The Brother DCP-L2640DW includes duplex scanning capabilities. This allows you to automatically digitize two-sided documents without manual intervention. It also supports wireless scanning, making it suitable for small offices that need efficient document handling alongside fast monochrome printing.
What is the lightest option on this list?
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn is the lightest model at 8.35 pounds. Its compact design measures 17.4 inches wide and 10.8 inches deep. This makes it ideal for teams needing fast, secure, and space-efficient monochrome printing via a wired connection.
Which printer supports voice control with Alexa?
The Brother HL-L2460DW is compatible with Alexa for voice-controlled monochrome printing. It is a focused solution for users who prioritize speed and convenience over multifunction features. It also includes duplex printing and mobile printing capabilities for small office environments.
How do the dimensions of the M611dn compare to the 5601dn?
The HP M611dn is wider and taller than the 5601dn. It measures 15 inches wide and 18.3 inches high, whereas the 5601dn is 16.5 inches wide and 17.9 inches high. The M611dn also weighs significantly more at 47.5 pounds compared to 38 pounds.
Which model is best for small offices with limited space?
The Brother DCP-L2640DW fits small teams needing fast monochrome scanning and printing. Its compact size works well for offices with limited space and moderate volume needs. It combines scanning, copying, and duplex printing into a standard-sized footprint that is easy to place.
Does the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn support wireless printing?
The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn prioritizes wired stability through its Ethernet connectivity. It does not list wireless capabilities in its specifications. It is designed for offices that value reliable, high-speed monochrome printing over the flexibility of wireless connections.
Which printer is the heaviest in this group?
The HP M611dn is the heaviest model at 47.5 pounds. Its robust build supports high-volume output and centralized control for busy offices. It is a solid choice for teams that value security and speed more than wireless convenience or compact size.