HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401DN Laser Printer Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The HP LaserJet Pro 400 M401DN laser printer delivers fast 35 ppm monochrome output with automatic duplex printing and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. If you are searching for hp laserjet pro 400 m401dn laser printer alternatives, you might want a different form factor or additional functions. This model prints only. It lacks color capability, scanning, or wireless options. Some users prefer compact designs or ink-based systems for lower running costs.
We selected these 6 alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original in key areas. The list includes other monochrome laser printers for similar speed and duplex features. It also covers color all-in-one options for teams needing scanning or copying. You will find direct thermal choices for label printing in tight spaces. Each pick matches specific needs that the M401DN does not address, such as wireless convenience or high-volume color output. Review the specs to find the right fit for your office workflow.
Our top pick: HP LaserJet Pro Duplex Monochrome Laser Printer.
How each alternative compares
Canon MegaTank Wireless All-in-One Printer
The Canon MegaTank G3290 shifts from monochrome laser to color inkjet technology. You gain wireless printing and a touchscreen interface, which the M401DN lacks. This model supports high-volume color tasks, making it better for teams needing vibrant graphics. However, it sacrifices the 35 ppm speed and automatic duplexing of the HP. It is larger at 16.4 inches wide. Choose this if you prioritize color versatility and modern connectivity over pure black-and-white speed.
HP Smart Tank All-in-One Color Printer
The HP Smart Tank 5003 offers color printing via a high-capacity tank system, unlike the toner cartridge in the M401DN. It is an all-in-one device, adding scan and copy functions you do not get with the single-function HP. This printer is wider at 17.1 inches and heavier. It targets users who want low-cost color output and multifunction capability. You give up the fast 35 ppm laser speed and automatic duplex printing. Pick this if color and scanning are essential for your workflow.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 All-in-One Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 provides color printing and wireless scanning, features absent in the monochrome HP M401DN. It uses an ink tank system for lower cost per page. This unit is significantly longer at 22.8 inches and lacks automatic duplex printing. It is heavier at 11.6 pounds. You trade the HP’s rapid 35 ppm output and network-ready Gigabit Ethernet for color flexibility and wireless convenience. Select this option if you need color documents and scanning without the bulk of a full-size office printer.
Epson EcoTank Wireless Color All-in-One
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 adds an automatic document feeder, fax, and wireless scanning to color printing. It replaces the M401DN’s single-function laser engine with a multifunction inkjet system. This model supports duplex scanning and mobile printing. It is narrower at 11.8 inches but lacks the HP’s 35 ppm speed. You gain advanced document handling and fax capabilities. Choose this if you require faxing and high-volume color scanning. You sacrifice the reliability and speed of a dedicated monochrome laser engine for multifunction versatility.
Zebra 2-Inch Direct Thermal Printer
The Zebra ZD410 is a direct thermal label printer, not a document printer. It prints only on labels and receipts, unlike the M401DN which handles standard paper. It is much smaller, measuring 8.4 inches wide. It lacks wireless connectivity and duplex printing. This device is for retail or logistics use cases. You give up all standard office printing functions. Pick this if you need specialized label output for inventory or shipping. It is not a replacement for general document printing tasks.
Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a compact monochrome laser printer with wireless connectivity. It matches the M401DN’s black-and-white output but adds Wi-Fi and mobile printing support. It includes automatic duplex printing for two-sided documents. However, it lacks the Gigabit Ethernet port found on the HP. It is slightly narrower at 14 inches wide. Choose this if you need wireless flexibility and duplexing without network cabling. You trade wired network stability for easier wireless setup and a smaller footprint.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
HP LaserJet Pro Duplex Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: fast monochrome network printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Print only
- Supported Functions
- Print Speed
- Up to 35 ppm
- Connectivity
- USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet
View on Amazon: HP LaserJet Pro Duplex Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
This monochrome laser printer produces text documents at up to 35 pages per minute with a 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution. It connects to your local office setup via Gigabit Ethernet or USB 2.0 and includes automatic duplex printing for two-sided sheets. It suits you if you need fast, high-volume black-and-white printing on a wired network.
Pros
- Print speed up to 35 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided duplex printing
- Gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0 connectivity
- Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi print resolution
Cons
- Monochrome print output only with no color support
- Print-only device without copy, scan, or fax functions
Good fit if
- You print black-and-white documents at speeds up to 35 ppm.
- You need built-in automatic double-sided printing.
- You connect via Gigabit Ethernet or standard USB.
Skip if
- You require color printing for graphics or photos.
- You need an all-in-one machine with scanning or copying tools.
Verdict: HP LaserJet Pro Monochrome Duplex Printer delivers rapid black-and-white output for workgroups connected by Gigabit Ethernet. It serves office users who handle strictly monochrome single-function print jobs.
Canon MegaTank Wireless All-in-One Printer
Best for: High-volume color printing needs
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Duplex Printing
- Auto 2-sided
- Ink/Toner System
- Refillable Tank System
View on Amazon: Canon MegaTank Wireless All-in-One Printer Affiliate link
The Canon Megatank G3290 is a wireless all-in-one printer that supports print, copy, and scan functions. It features auto two-sided printing and a 2.7-inch color touchscreen. This model includes MegaTank ink, which supports up to 6,000 black and white or 7,700 color pages. It measures 16.4 by 14.3 by 7 inches and weighs 14.2 pounds. It suits users who want high-yield color printing without frequent cartridge changes.
Pros
- Auto two-sided printing for paper savings
- High-yield MegaTank ink system
- 2.7-inch color touchscreen interface
- Wireless connectivity for easy setup
Cons
- Prints only up to 7,700 color pages per ink set
- No mention of Ethernet or USB connectivity options
- Heavier at 14.2 pounds than compact laser models
Good fit if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You want to reduce ink replacement frequency
- You prefer a touchscreen interface
Skip if
- You require monochrome-only laser printing
- You need a compact footprint under 14 inches wide
- You prioritize Ethernet connectivity over wireless
Verdict: Canon Megatank G3290 All-in-One fits teams that need reliable color output and high page yields. It is a practical choice for offices that value wireless convenience and touchscreen ease over the speed of laser technology.
HP Smart Tank All-in-One Color Printer
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: HP Smart Tank All-in-One Color Printer Affiliate link
The HP Smart Tank 5003 is a color all-in-one ink tank printer. It supports print, copy, and scan functions. The device includes three years of ink, allowing for up to 6,000 pages. It features wireless connectivity and a mess-free refill system. This unit measures 17.1 inches wide and weighs 11.1 pounds. It suits users who need high-volume color output without frequent cartridge changes.
Pros
- Includes 3 years of ink for up to 6,000 pages
- Supports print, copy, and scan functions
- Features wireless connectivity for mobile printing
- Uses a mess-free refill ink tank system
Cons
- Prints in color only, not monochrome
- Limited to wireless connectivity, no Ethernet port listed
- Bulkier footprint at 17.1 inches wide
Good fit if
- You need color printing for documents or photos
- You want to avoid buying cartridges for several years
- You prefer wireless printing from mobile devices
Skip if
- You require a monochrome-only printer
- You need a compact device for tight spaces
- You require wired Ethernet connectivity
Verdict: HP Smart Tank 5003 All-in-One is a high-capacity color printer ideal for home offices that value low running costs over monochrome speed.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 All-in-One Printer
Best for: Color printing and scanning with low ink costs
- Print Technology
- Inkjet
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Multifunction (all-in-one)
- Supported Functions
- Print, scan, copy
- Ink/Toner System
- Tank
- Connectivity
- Wireless
View on Amazon: Epson EcoTank ET-2800 All-in-One Printer Affiliate link
This is a wireless color all-in-one printer with high-capacity ink tanks. It prints up to 4,500 black or 7,500 color pages. The unit includes a flatbed scanner and a color display. It measures 14.8 by 22.8 inches and weighs 11.6 pounds. It suits users who want to avoid frequent cartridge changes and need color output for home or small office tasks.
Pros
- High-capacity ink tanks reduce replacement frequency
- Prints up to 4,500 black or 7,500 color pages
- Includes flatbed scanner and color display
- Wireless connectivity for flexible placement
Cons
- Prints color only, not monochrome
- No automatic duplex printing listed
- Larger footprint than compact monochrome lasers
Good fit if
- You need color prints and scans
- You want to avoid buying cartridges often
- You prefer wireless setup over wired connections
Skip if
- You only print black and white text
- You need high-volume page output
- You require automatic double-sided printing
Verdict: Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One is a solid choice for users who prioritize color quality and low ink costs over speed and monochrome efficiency.
Epson EcoTank Wireless Color All-in-One
Best for: Color printing and scanning with no cartridges
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet
- Ink/Toner System
- Tank
- Features
- Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax
View on Amazon: Epson EcoTank Wireless Color All-in-One Affiliate link
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a wireless color all-in-one printer that uses high-capacity ink tanks instead of cartridges. It prints, scans, and copies with automatic document feeding. The flatbed scanner supports high-resolution scanning for documents and photos. This model suits users who want to avoid buying frequent ink cartridges while needing color output and scanning capabilities for home office tasks.
Pros
- Wireless connectivity for easy network setup
- High-capacity ink tank system eliminates cartridge waste
- Built-in automatic document feeder for multi-page scanning
- Micro Piezo heat-free technology for sharp text and color graphics
Cons
- Prints in color only, not monochrome
- No mention of mobile app control in specifications
- Larger footprint than compact monochrome laser printers
Good fit if
- You need color printing and scanning without buying cartridges
- You print moderate volumes and want lower long-term ink costs
- You require wireless printing and copying from multiple devices
Skip if
- You only print black and white text documents
- You need a compact printer for a small desk
- You require a dedicated monochrome laser for high-speed text
Verdict: Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless Color All-in-One fits users who prioritize color output and scanning convenience over compact size or monochrome speed. It is a practical solution for those who want to eliminate cartridge waste while maintaining wireless functionality.
Zebra 2-Inch Direct Thermal Printer
Best for: small space label printing
- Connectivity
- USB
- Print Technology
- Direct Thermal
- Dimensions
- 10.4 × 8.4 × 6.6 inches
View on Amazon: Zebra 2-Inch Direct Thermal Printer Affiliate link
The Zebra ZD410 is a compact direct thermal label printer designed for small workspaces. It features a small footprint measuring 8.4 x 10.4 x 6.6 inches and connects via USB. This model prints up to 2 inches wide, making it suitable for labels, barcodes, and wristbands. It operates without ribbons or toner, relying on direct thermal technology to reduce maintenance needs.
Pros
- Compact design fits limited workspaces
- Prints 2-inch wide labels and barcodes
- USB plug-and-play connectivity
- No ribbons or toner required
Cons
- Limited to 2-inch print width
- USB only, no wireless options
- Direct thermal media fades over time
Good fit if
- You need a small footprint for tight spaces
- You print standard retail or logistics labels
- You want to avoid toner maintenance
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity
- You need to print wide shipping labels
- You need long-term label permanence
Verdict: Zebra ZD410 Compact Direct Thermal Printer is a practical choice for users needing a small, simple label printer for retail or logistics. It fits well in tight spaces where wireless features are not required.
Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer
Best for: fast monochrome document 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 small teams or home offices. It delivers print speeds up to 36 ppm and features automatic duplex printing to save paper. Connectivity includes dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB. A 250-sheet paper tray handles high-volume tasks, while the Brother Mobile Connect app allows remote management. Its compact footprint fits easily on desks.
Pros
- Prints up to 36 pages per minute
- Automatic duplex printing reduces paper waste
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- 250-sheet paper tray capacity
- Mobile printing via Brother app
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning or copying
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- No display panel listed for local control
Good fit if
- You need fast black-and-white document printing
- You want automatic two-sided printing
- You prefer wireless or network connectivity
Skip if
- You require color printing capabilities
- You need a scanner or copier
- You prefer inkjet technology for photos
Verdict: Brother HL-L2460DW Compact Monochrome Laser Printer suits users who prioritize speed and duplex printing for text documents. It is a practical option for offices needing reliable monochrome output without multifunction features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HP LaserJet Pro Duplex Monochrome Laser Printer | Canon MegaTank Wireless All-in-One Printer | HP Smart Tank All-in-One Color Printer | Epson EcoTank ET-2800 All-in-One Printer | Epson EcoTank Wireless Color All-in-One | Zebra 2-Inch Direct Thermal Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome Duplex Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | not stated | not stated | Inkjet | not stated | not stated | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Color | Color | Color | Color | not stated | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | Print only | All-in-One | All-in-One | Multifunction (all-in-one) | All-in-One | not stated | Single-function |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan | Print, copy, scan | Print, scan, copy | Print, copy, scan, fax | not stated | not stated | |
| Print Speed | Up to 35 ppm | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 36 ppm |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet | Wireless | Wireless | not stated | Wireless, Ethernet | USB | Wireless, Ethernet, USB |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic duplex printing | Auto 2-sided | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Automatic |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner cartridge | Refillable Tank System | Tank | Tank | Tank | not stated | Toner cartridge |
| Features | not stated | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Touch Screen, Scanner, Copier | Scanner, Copier | Scanner, Copier | Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | not stated | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing |
| Ideal For | not stated | not stated | not stated | Photos | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Use Case | not stated | Office, Home | Home | Home | Home | not stated | not stated |
| Scanner Type | not stated | Portable | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Portable |
| Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning |
| Compatibility | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Alexa |
| Duplex Scanning | not stated | Duplex | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Duplex |
| Auto Document Feeder | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | ADF | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 8.5 × 15.7 × 10.2 inches | 14.3 × 16.4 × 7 inches | 14.2 × 17.1 × 6.19 inches | 22.8 × 14.8 × 10 inches | 11.8 × 14.8 × 6.7 inches | 10.4 × 8.4 × 6.6 inches | 14.2 × 14 × 7.2 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 14.2 pounds | 11.1 pounds | 11.6 pounds | 11 pounds | not stated | 15.6 pounds |
| Color | Black | White | OOV White / Portobello | White | White | WHITE | Black |
| Model | M401DN | 6706C022 | 510x | C11CJ66202 | C11CJ65201 | ZD410 | HLL2460DW |
| Size | not stated | One Size | one size | Medium | One Size | USB | Standard |
Another guide worth a look: hp pro 400 g9 sff alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best color printing capability?
The Canon MegaTank G3290 is the best premium choice for high-volume color tasks. It uses inkjet technology to deliver vibrant graphics, unlike the monochrome M401DN. This model includes wireless connectivity and a touchscreen interface. It is ideal for teams that need reliable color output and high page yields without the speed of laser printing.
Is there a more compact monochrome option available?
The Brother HL-L2460DW is a compact monochrome laser printer suited for text documents. It supports automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity. This model is a practical option for offices needing reliable monochrome output without multifunction features. It prioritizes speed and duplex printing for users who do not require scanning or copying capabilities.
Which printer is best for low-cost color printing?
The HP Smart Tank 5003 is the best budget choice for low-cost color printing. It is a high-capacity color printer ideal for home offices. This model values low running costs over the monochrome speed of the M401DN. It is a practical solution for users who need color output without the high expense of traditional cartridges.
Can I find an alternative with an automatic document feeder?
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 includes an automatic document feeder for scanning convenience. It is a wireless color all-in-one printer that supports scan, copy, and fax functions. This model fits users who prioritize color output and scanning over compact size. It helps eliminate cartridge waste while maintaining wireless functionality for busy offices.
What is the best choice for label printing?
The Zebra ZD410 is a direct thermal printer designed for small space label printing. It is a practical choice for retail or logistics environments. This compact model fits well in tight spaces where wireless features are not required. It focuses on simple label output rather than document printing, making it distinct from standard office lasers.
Which alternative provides the best scanning features?
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is the best scan option among these alternatives. It supports wireless scanning and includes an automatic document feeder. This all-in-one printer is designed for users who prioritize color output and scanning convenience. It allows you to eliminate cartridge waste while maintaining robust wireless functionality for multi-function tasks.
Do these alternatives support wireless printing?
Several alternatives support wireless printing for greater flexibility. The Canon MegaTank G3290, HP Smart Tank 5003, and Epson EcoTank models all include wireless connectivity. The Brother HL-L2460DW also supports wireless printing and mobile printing features. This allows you to print from various devices without needing a direct cable connection to the printer.