Lexmark CS331dw Color Laser Printer vs Lexmark MS431dw Black White Laser Printer (2026): Key Differences
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The lexmark ms431dw black white laser printer vs cs331dw color laser comparison highlights two distinct office machines. Both are single-function laser printers with wireless connectivity and automatic duplex printing. They share Lexmark’s security architecture and mobile printing support. The main difference lies in output type. The CS331dw produces color prints, while the MS431dw is monochrome. This choice affects your document versatility and potential toner costs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer | Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Print Output | Color | Black and white |
| Print Speed | 26 ppm | not listed |
| Processor | 1-GHz dual-core | not listed |
| Memory | 512 MB | not listed |
| Monthly Page Volume | 600 - 2500 pages | 800 - 8000 pages |
| Dimensions | 16.2 x 9.6 x 15.5 inches | 16.2 x 16.6 x 10.8 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer if
- You need to print color documents or graphics regularly
- You want a faster print speed of 26 pages per minute
- You prefer a device with a 1-GHz dual-core processor and 512 MB of memory
Choose Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer if
- You print only black and white text documents
- You have a high monthly volume up to 8000 pages
- You want a lighter printer at 20.6 pounds
Verdict: Choose the CS331dw if you require color output and faster processing speeds for a moderate workload. Select the MS431dw if you only print monochrome documents and need a higher monthly page volume capacity. Both models offer reliable wireless connectivity and secure printing features.
Lexmark MS431dw vs CS331dw Comparison
Print output type
The Lexmark CS331dw delivers full-color laser printing, making it suitable for documents requiring graphics, charts, or colored branding. The Lexmark MS431dw is a monochrome machine that produces only black and white text and line art. If your workflow involves marketing materials, presentations, or any content where color adds value, the CS331dw is the necessary choice. The MS431dw focuses strictly on text clarity and speed for standard office reports. You must decide if color is essential for your daily tasks or if black and white suffices for your volume.
Print speed
The Lexmark CS331dw prints up to 26 pages per minute. The Lexmark MS431dw does not list a specific pages-per-minute speed in its provided specifications. Generally, monochrome lasers can be faster, but without that explicit number for the MS431dw, we cannot confirm a speed advantage. The CS331dw’s 26 ppm rate is adequate for small workgroups. You should consider this speed sufficient for moderate daily loads. For the MS431dw, the lack of a stated speed figure means you should check the manufacturer’s full spec sheet if speed is your primary constraint.
Physical dimensions
The Lexmark MS431dw is physically smaller in footprint. It measures 16.2 inches in length, 16.6 inches in width, and 10.8 inches in height. The Lexmark CS331dw is larger, measuring 16.2 inches in length, 9.6 inches in width, and 15.5 inches in height. While the CS331dw is narrower, it is significantly taller. The MS431dw offers a more compact profile that may fit better in tight spaces. The CS331dw requires more vertical clearance. You should measure your desk or shelf space carefully before choosing, as the height difference is substantial.
Build and weight
The Lexmark MS431dw weighs 20.6 pounds and features a steel frame for durability. The Lexmark CS331dw weighs 35.5 pounds. The MS431dw is lighter and easier to move if needed. The CS331dw is heavier, which may provide more stability on a desk but makes it harder to relocate. Both units are built for office use. The steel frame on the MS431dw suggests robust construction despite the lower weight. You should consider how often you might need to move the printer or if a heavier base is preferred for vibration reduction during high-volume printing.
Monthly page volume
The Lexmark MS431dw has a recommended monthly page volume of 800 to 8000 pages. The Lexmark CS331dw is rated for 600 to 2500 pages per month. The MS431dw supports a significantly higher maximum workload, making it better suited for high-volume environments. If you print thousands of pages monthly, the MS431dw is the more durable option for that task. The CS331dw is designed for lower to moderate volumes. You should match your actual monthly print count to these recommendations to ensure longevity and consistent performance from your chosen machine.
Which laser printer fits your office?
Users needing color graphics and charts
The Lexmark CS331dw produces full-color laser output. This model prints up to 26 pages per minute with a 1-GHz dual-core processor. It includes 512 MB of memory and standard automatic two-sided printing. Its recommended monthly page volume ranges from 600 to 2500 pages. You get wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity for mobile and cloud printing support in a compact office footprint.
High-volume text document printing needs
The Lexmark MS431dw handles higher workloads with a recommended monthly page volume of 800 to 8000 pages. It features a durable steel frame and long-life imaging components. This monochrome printer includes a two-line display for system monitoring. It supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connections. Automatic duplex printing is standard, helping you save paper while maintaining fast, reliable black and white output for busy offices.
Those prioritizing compact size and weight
The Lexmark MS431dw measures 16.6 inches wide, 10.8 inches high, and 16.2 inches long. It weighs only 20.6 pounds, making it lighter and easier to place in tight spaces. The Lexmark CS331dw is larger at 9.6 by 15.5 by 16.2 inches and weighs 35.5 pounds. If desk space is limited, the smaller, lighter MS431dw offers a more flexible installation option without sacrificing wireless connectivity or duplex features.
The products compared
Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer
Best for: Small offices needing compact color laser printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Single-function
- Print Speed
- 26 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, USB, Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
View on Amazon: Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark CS331dw is a single-function color laser printer designed for small to medium workgroups. It prints up to 26 pages per minute and includes automatic two-sided printing. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. The device measures 16.2 by 9.6 by 15.5 inches and weighs 35.5 pounds. It supports mobile printing via standard protocols and features a 250-page tray capacity. This model suits offices needing reliable color output in a compact footprint.
Pros
- Prints up to 26 pages per minute
- Automatic two-sided duplex printing
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
- Compact dimensions fit most spaces
- Supports Mopria, AirPrint, and Google Cloud Print
Cons
- Single-function design lacks scanning or copying
- No built-in touchscreen display listed
- Recommended monthly page volume caps at 2,500 pages
Good fit if
- You need reliable color printing in a small office
- You require automatic two-sided printing for document efficiency
- You want wireless mobile printing capabilities
Skip if
- You need scanning or copying functions
- You print more than 2,500 pages per month
- You require a multifunction device
Verdict: The Lexmark CS331dw Compact Color Laser fits small offices that prioritize color output and wireless convenience over multifunction features. Its compact size and fast print speed make it suitable for teams needing steady color document production.
Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing compact monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Black and white
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic two-sided
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing
- Use Case
- Office
View on Amazon: Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
This is a compact black and white laser printer designed for small offices. It features automatic two-sided printing, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. The steel frame supports a recommended monthly volume of 800 to 8,000 pages. It includes a two-line display and energy-saving modes. This model suits users who need reliable monochrome output in a space-saving footprint.
Pros
- Automatic two-sided printing
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Compact steel frame design
- Recommended monthly page volume up to 8,000 pages
Cons
- Monochrome output only
- Small two-line display
- No color printing capability
Good fit if
- You need a compact monochrome printer for a small office
- You require automatic two-sided printing
- You want Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You need color printing
- You require high-volume heavy-duty printing
- You prefer a large color display
Verdict: Lexmark MS431dw Compact Monochrome Laser Printer is a practical choice for small offices needing reliable black and white printing with automatic duplexing. It fits users who value a compact footprint and standard network connectivity over color capabilities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexmark Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer | Lexmark Compact Monochrome Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Color | Black and white |
| Printer Type | Single-function | not stated |
| Print Speed | 26 ppm | not stated |
| Connectivity | Wireless, USB, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic two-sided | Automatic two-sided |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner | not stated |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing |
| Use Case | Office | Office |
| Scanner Type | Portable | Portable |
| Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex |
| Dimensions | 16.2 × 9.6 × 15.5 inches | 16.2 × 16.6 × 10.8 inches |
| Weight | 35.5 pounds | 20.6 pounds |
| Size | Small-Medium Workgroup | PRINTER |
| Color | White/Gray | BLACK |
| Model | CS331dw | MS431dw |
Frequently asked questions
Which printer has a smaller footprint?
The Lexmark MS431dw is more compact in height. It measures 10.8 inches tall, while the CS331dw stands 15.5 inches high. The CS331dw is slightly narrower at 9.6 inches wide compared to the MS431dw’s 16.6 inches. Both share the same depth of 16.2 inches. You should choose the MS431dw if vertical space is limited on your desk.
Is the Lexmark CS331dw heavier than the MS431dw?
Yes, the CS331dw is significantly heavier. It weighs 35.5 pounds, whereas the MS431dw weighs only 20.6 pounds. The extra weight comes from the color laser engine components. You will need a sturdy surface for the CS331dw. The lighter MS431dw is easier to move if you plan to relocate it occasionally.
Do both models support wireless scanning?
Both printers include wireless scanning capabilities. The CS331dw supports duplex scanning for two-sided documents. The MS431dw also offers duplex scanning. You can scan directly to network folders or email using the wireless connection. This feature works for both color and monochrome outputs depending on the machine you select.
Can I print two-sided automatically on both machines?
Yes, automatic duplex printing is standard on both models. The CS331dw handles color two-sided printing. The MS431dw manages black and white two-sided jobs. You do not need to manually flip pages for either device. This saves paper and reduces manual effort for long document batches in your office.
Which printer is better for small offices?
The CS331dw is designed for small offices needing color output. It fits teams that prioritize color graphics. The MS431dw suits offices needing compact monochrome printing. It is practical for users who value a smaller footprint over color. Your choice depends on whether you need color documents or just reliable black and white text.
Do these printers support mobile printing?
Both models support mobile printing features. You can print from smartphones or tablets using either device. The CS331dw and MS431dw both include this functionality. This allows you to send jobs from anywhere in the office. It adds convenience for users who work away from their main desktop computers.