Looking Beyond the HP LaserJet Enterprise M506n Printer? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Looking beyond the hp laserjet enterprise m506n printer alternatives? This guide compares 6 options that share key specs with the original. The HP M506n delivers fast first-page output in 8.5 seconds and prioritizes enterprise security with embedded threat detection. It fits offices needing wired stability and high-volume monochrome text. However, its large footprint and lack of wireless connectivity may not suit every workspace. Some buyers prefer smaller devices or multifunction capabilities. Others need color output or lower upfront costs. The alternatives listed here overlap with the M506n in areas like print speed, connectivity type, or intended use case. You will find monochrome laser options for compact spaces, color inkjet models for graphic-heavy tasks, and duplex printers for document-heavy workflows. Each choice addresses a specific gap in the M506n’s feature set. We selected these models because their published specifications align with common office needs that differ from the M506n’s enterprise focus. This list helps you match hardware to your actual requirements rather than settling for a one-size-fits-all solution.
Our top pick: HP M506n Enterprise Laser Printer.
How each alternative compares
Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One
The Canon MegaTank G3270 shifts focus from monochrome speed to low-cost color printing. It outputs color pages and includes ink, which contrasts with the M506n’s black-only toner system. This model is larger, measuring 21.9 inches in length compared to the HP’s 14.8 inches. It weighs less at 13.2 pounds. You get wireless scanning capabilities here. The M506n prioritizes enterprise security features and wired network stability. If you need color documents and lower ink costs over high-volume security, this Canon is a practical swap. It sacrifices the HP’s robust threat detection for affordable color output.
Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2405W offers a compact frame for home offices needing fast monochrome printing. It prints at 30 ppm, which is efficient for small teams. This unit is smaller than the M506n, with a height of 7.2 inches versus 11.7 inches. It weighs 15.1 pounds, making it lighter than the HP’s 25.5 pounds. You gain wireless connectivity and mobile printing support. The M506n provides enterprise-grade security and a 4-line color display. This Brother model lacks scanning functions. Choose this if you prioritize portability and basic wireless printing over the heavy-duty security and display features of the HP.
HP LaserJet M207dw Monochrome Duplex Printer
The HP LaserJet M207dw provides automatic duplex printing for small offices. It handles black-and-white output with two-sided capability, which the M506n does not explicitly list as standard. This model is lighter at 12.4 pounds and shorter at 8.07 inches high. It fits teams of one to five people. The M506n is built for higher volumes and includes embedded security threats detection. The M207dw offers secure wireless connectivity. If you need automatic two-sided printing in a smaller footprint, this is a suitable alternative. It gives up the M506n’s large capacity and advanced fleet management for simpler duplex convenience.
HP LaserJet Wireless Duplex Printer
The HP LaserJet M209dw delivers fast monochrome wireless printing for small teams. It is a single-function device, similar to the M506n. This printer is significantly lighter at 11.2 pounds and narrower at 11 inches wide. It measures 14 inches in length, matching the M506n’s depth. You get wireless scanning options here. The M506n focuses on enterprise security and wired stability. This M209dw prioritizes wireless convenience and speed. It lacks the M506n’s extensive security features and large toner yield. Pick this if you want a smaller, wireless-friendly printer for light office use without the bulk of the M506n.
Epson WorkForce Pro Color All-in-One Inkjet
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 supports color output and faxing, which the M506n does not. It includes an automatic document feeder and scanning capabilities. This unit is larger, weighing 24 pounds and measuring 19.8 inches wide. It is an inkjet, differing from the M506n’s laser technology. You get multifunction features like copying and faxing. The M506n is a monochrome laser focused on speed and security. Choose this Epson if you need color pages and faxing. It sacrifices the laser speed and enterprise security of the HP for versatile color and document handling in a larger package.
HP LaserJet Monochrome Network Printer
The HP LaserJet P2055dn is a renewed workgroup printer for wired monochrome tasks. It is built for offices relying on wired connections, similar to the M506n. This model is larger, measuring 18 inches by 18 inches. It weighs more than the listed M207dw but fits traditional workgroup needs. It offers solid speed for black-and-white printing. The M506n includes modern security features and a color display. This P2055dn is a straightforward wired option. It lacks the advanced threat detection of the M506n. Select this if you need a reliable wired monochrome printer and do not require the latest security integrations or wireless flexibility.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
HP M506n Enterprise Laser Printer
Best for: High-volume monochrome printing with enterprise security
- First Page Out
- 8.5 seconds
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner cartridge
- Dimensions
- 14.8 × 16.5 × 11.7 inches
- Weight
- 25.5 pounds
View on Amazon: HP M506n Enterprise Laser Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet Enterprise M506n is a monochrome laser printer designed for high-volume office environments. It delivers sharp text and graphics with HP FastRes 1200 resolution. The device prints its first page in 8.5 seconds from sleep mode. It includes a 4-line color display and a 10-key pad for PIN printing. This model focuses on fleet security and energy efficiency for busy workspaces.
Pros
- First page out in 8.5 seconds from energy-efficient sleep mode
- HP FastRes 1200 and ProRes 1200 resolution technology for crisp graphics
- 4-line color display and 10-key pad for PIN printing
- Embedded security features detect threats and heal the printer
Cons
- No wireless connectivity; requires a wired network connection
- Single-function device without scanning or copying capabilities
- Standard one-year limited hardware warranty
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated, high-speed printing station for text-heavy documents
- You require embedded security features to protect sensitive data in transit
- You want a printer with a physical keypad for secure PIN printing
Skip if
- You need a multifunction device that scans or copies
- You require wireless printing from mobile devices without a network
- You are looking for a compact printer for a small home office
Verdict: The HP LaserJet Enterprise M506n is a robust, security-focused monochrome laser printer that suits offices needing fast, high-volume text printing. It fits teams that prioritize data protection and wired network stability over wireless convenience or multifunction capabilities.
Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One
Best for: low-cost color printing
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, Copy, Scan
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Ink/Toner System
- Tank
- Features
- Scanner, Copier
View on Amazon: Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One Affiliate link
The Canon MegaTank G3270 is a multifunction wireless printer that handles color print, copy, and scan tasks. It features a 1.35-inch square LCD display and single-sided printing. The MegaTank system includes up to two years of ink, supporting high yields of 6,000 black and white or 7,700 color pages. This model suits users needing reliable color output with low ongoing supply costs.
Pros
- Includes up to two years of MegaTank ink
- Supports high-volume color printing up to 7,700 pages
- All-in-one functionality for print, copy, and scan
- Wireless connectivity for flexible placement
Cons
- Single-sided printing only, no automatic duplex
- Small 1.35-inch LCD display
- Larger footprint at 21.9 inches wide
Good fit if
- You need affordable color printing for home or small office
- You want to avoid frequent cartridge replacements
- You require wireless scanning and copying capabilities
Skip if
- You require automatic double-sided printing
- You need a compact footprint under 15 inches wide
- You only print monochrome documents
Verdict: Canon MegaTank G3270 Color Wireless Printer offers high-yield color printing and included ink, making it ideal for users prioritizing low cost per page over duplex features.
Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: Home offices needing fast monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 30 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, USB
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner cartridge
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother HL-L2405W is a single-function monochrome laser printer designed for home offices. It prints black and white documents at speeds up to 30 pages per minute. The unit supports dual-band wireless and USB connections. It includes a 250-sheet paper tray and a manual feed slot for envelopes. This model fits users who need reliable, compact printing without scanning capabilities.
Pros
- Prints at speeds up to 30 ppm
- Dual-band wireless and USB connectivity
- 250-sheet paper tray capacity
- Compact size at 14 x 14.2 x 7.2 inches
Cons
- Single-function design lacks a scanner
- One-sided printing only
- Standard 1-year limited warranty
Good fit if
- You need fast black and white document printing
- You require dual-band wireless connectivity
- You want a compact footprint for a small desk
Skip if
- You need to scan or copy documents
- You require color printing output
- You need automatic two-sided printing
Verdict: Brother HL-L2405W Compact Monochrome Laser Printer delivers 30 ppm monochrome output in a small frame, making it a practical fit for home offices that only need printing. It does not suit users who require scanning or color capabilities.
HP LaserJet M207dw Monochrome Duplex Printer
Best for: small offices needing fast monochrome duplex printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- Up to 28 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided printing
- Features
- Duplex Printing
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet M207dw Monochrome Duplex Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet M207dw is a monochrome laser printer designed for small offices of one to five people. It prints black-and-white documents at up to 28 pages per minute. The device includes automatic duplex printing for two-sided output. It connects via dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset capabilities and Ethernet. Built-in security features help protect the printer from attacks.
Pros
- Prints up to 28 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing for two-sided output
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset connectivity
- Built-in security features for protection
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- No automatic document feeder for batch scanning
- Prints only, lacks scanning or copying functions
Good fit if
- You need fast black-and-white printing for a small team
- You require automatic two-sided printing to save paper
- You want reliable wireless connectivity with self-reset features
Skip if
- You need color printing for brochures or photos
- You require scanning or copying capabilities
- You are printing high volumes for a large office
Verdict: The HP LaserJet M207dw Monochrome Duplex Printer is a practical choice for small offices needing fast, secure black-and-white printing with automatic two-sided output. It suits teams of one to five people who prioritize connectivity and security over color or multi-function features.
HP LaserJet Wireless Duplex Printer
Best for: Small teams needing fast monochrome wireless printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Supported Functions
- Print Speed
- Up to 30 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Wireless Duplex Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet M209dw is a single-function wireless laser printer designed for small teams of one to five people. It prints black-and-white documents at up to 30 pages per minute single-sided. It features auto two-sided printing and dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset capabilities. Its compact build measures 11 by 14 inches and weighs 11.2 pounds. This model suits users who need reliable, secure, and fast monochrome output without scanning or copying functions.
Pros
- Prints up to 30 pages per minute single-sided
- Auto two-sided printing for efficient paper use
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with self-reset connectivity
- Compact dimensions of 11 x 14 x 8.07 inches
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning or copying
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- No wired Ethernet port listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated wireless printer for a small team
- You require fast black-and-white document printing
- You want auto two-sided printing to save paper
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You require scanning or copying functions
- You need a wired Ethernet connection
Verdict: HP LaserJet M209dw Wireless Monochrome Printer offers fast single-function printing for small offices. It fits users who prioritize speed and wireless convenience over multifunction features.
Epson WorkForce Pro Color All-in-One Inkjet
Best for: Small offices needing color and faxing
- Print Technology
- Inkjet
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Print Speed
- Up to 25 ppm
- Connectivity
- USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi
View on Amazon: Epson WorkForce Pro Color All-in-One Inkjet Affiliate link
The Epson Workforce Pro WF-4830 is a color inkjet all-in-one designed for small offices. It prints up to 25 pages per minute in black and 12 in color, with a 33,000-page monthly duty cycle. You get auto two-sided printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. Its large footprint and 24-pound weight suit stationary desks.
Pros
- Prints up to 25 ppm in black and 12 ppm in color
- High 33,000-page monthly duty cycle
- Supports auto two-sided print, copy, scan, and fax
- Connects via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth Low Energy
Cons
- Print resolution limited to 4800 x 2400 dpi
- Uses inkjet technology instead of laser
- Large size at 19.8 inches wide and 24 pounds
Good fit if
- You need color printing with scanning and faxing
- You have a dedicated desk space for a larger machine
- You require high monthly page volumes up to 33,000
Skip if
- You strictly require laser printing technology
- You need a compact or portable printer
- You only need black and white output
Verdict: Epson Workforce Pro WF-4830 Color All-in-One suits small offices needing color output and high volume. It fits users who value faxing and duplexing over laser speed.
HP LaserJet Monochrome Network Printer
Best for: wired monochrome workgroup printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Print Speed
- 35 pages per minute
- Connectivity
- USB, Gigabit Ethernet
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner
- Dimensions
- 18 × 18 × 14 inches
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Monochrome Network Printer Affiliate link
The HP LaserJet P2055dn is a monochrome laser printer designed for workgroup environments. It delivers 35 pages per minute at 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution. You get 300 pages of paper capacity and connectivity via USB and Gigabit Ethernet. This certified refurbished unit ships with new toner and a 90-day warranty. It suits offices needing reliable, high-volume black-and-white printing without wireless features.
Pros
- 35 pages per minute print speed
- 300-page paper capacity
- 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution
- Includes new toner
Cons
- No wireless Wi-Fi connectivity
- Monochrome output only
- 90-day warranty period
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome printing
- You prefer wired network connections
- You want a high-capacity workgroup printer
Skip if
- You require color printing
- You need wireless Wi-Fi connectivity
- You want a newer model with longer warranty
Verdict: HP LaserJet P2055dn Renewed Workgroup Printer offers solid speed and capacity for offices that rely on wired connections and monochrome tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HP M506n Enterprise Laser Printer | Canon MegaTank G3270 Wireless All-in-One | Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer | HP LaserJet M207dw Monochrome Duplex Printer | HP LaserJet Wireless Duplex Printer | Epson WorkForce Pro Color All-in-One Inkjet | HP LaserJet Monochrome Network Printer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | not stated | not stated | Laser | Laser | Laser | Inkjet | Laser |
| Print Output | not stated | Color | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Color | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | not stated | All-in-One | Single-function | not stated | not stated | All-in-One | not stated |
| Supported Functions | not stated | Print, Copy, Scan | not stated | not stated | Print, copy, scan, fax | not stated | |
| Print Speed | not stated | not stated | 30 ppm | Up to 28 ppm | Up to 30 ppm | Up to 25 ppm | 35 pages per minute |
| Connectivity | not stated | Wireless | Wireless, USB | Wireless, Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wireless | USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi | USB, Gigabit Ethernet |
| Duplex Printing | not stated | not stated | not stated | Automatic two-sided printing | Automatic | Automatic two-sided | not stated |
| First Page Out | 8.5 seconds | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner cartridge | Tank | Toner cartridge | not stated | not stated | not stated | Toner |
| Features | not stated | Scanner, Copier | Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing | Mobile Printing | Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | not stated |
| Use Case | not stated | Office, Home | not stated | not stated | Office | not stated | not stated |
| Scanner Type | not stated | Desktop | Portable | not stated | Portable | not stated | not stated |
| Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | not stated |
| Compatibility | not stated | not stated | Alexa | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Duplex Scanning | not stated | not stated | not stated | Duplex | not stated | Duplex | not stated |
| Auto Document Feeder | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | ADF | not stated |
| Dimensions | 14.8 × 16.5 × 11.7 inches | 21.9 × 16.4 × 10.6 inches | 14.2 × 14 × 7.2 inches | 11 × 14 × 8.07 inches | 14 × 11 × 8.07 inches | 16.7 × 19.8 × 13 inches | 18 × 18 × 14 inches |
| Weight | 25.5 pounds | 13.2 pounds | 15.1 pounds | 12.4 pounds | 11.2 pounds | 24 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 14.8 x 16.5 x 11.7 inches | One Size | Standard | one size | Printer | Large | not stated |
| Color | White | Black | Black | Black | Gray | Black | Light Gray/Black |
| Model | M506n | 5805C002 | HLL2405W | 8J9K9F#A62 | 6GW62F#BGJ | WF-4830 | HEWCE459A-RC7 |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the smallest footprint for a home office?
The Brother HL-L2405W is the most compact option in this list. It measures 14 inches wide and 7.2 inches high, weighing only 15.1 pounds. This small frame fits easily on tight desks while still delivering 30 pages per minute. It is designed for users who need fast monochrome printing without the bulk of larger enterprise machines.
Can I print color pages instead of just black and white?
Yes, the Canon MegaTank G3270 and Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 both provide color output. The Canon model uses a tank system for low-cost color pages. The Epson printer also includes color capabilities along with faxing and scanning. These options suit teams that need vibrant graphics or color documents, unlike the monochrome-only laser models.
Which printer supports automatic two-sided printing?
The HP LaserJet M207dw and the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 feature automatic duplex printing. The HP model handles both printing and scanning on both sides efficiently. The Epson printer includes an automatic document feeder for duplex scanning tasks. These features reduce paper usage and save time compared to manual two-sided printing.
Is wireless connectivity available on these alternatives?
Most models in this list support wireless connections. The Canon MegaTank G3270, Brother HL-L2405W, HP LaserJet M207dw, and HP LaserJet M209dw all offer wireless printing. The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 also connects wirelessly. This allows you to print from mobile devices or laptops without needing a direct cable connection to the computer.
Which option is best for scanning and copying?
The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 is the strongest choice for scanning and copying. It includes a scanner, copier, and fax machine with an automatic document feeder. The Canon MegaTank G3270 also supports wireless scanning. These multifunction devices handle document management tasks better than the single-function laser printers that only print.
How heavy is the heaviest printer on this list?
The HP LaserJet Enterprise M506n and the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4830 are the heaviest units. The HP M506n weighs 25.5 pounds, while the Epson model weighs 24 pounds. Both are larger, heavier machines designed for high-volume workgroups. In contrast, lighter options like the HP M209dw weigh just 11.2 pounds.
Which printer is suitable for wired network connections?
The HP LaserJet Enterprise M506n and the HP LaserJet P2055dn are optimized for wired stability. The M506n prioritizes enterprise security and wired network connections. The P2055dn is a workgroup printer that relies on wired connections for solid speed and capacity. These models suit offices that prefer stable Ethernet links over wireless signals.