6 Best Alternatives to the Lexmark MX521de Monochrome All-in One Laser Printer (2026)
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The Lexmark MX521de is a robust monochrome all-in-one laser printer designed for high-volume workgroups. It delivers fast 46 ppm output and includes duplex scanning for busy offices. If you are searching for lexmark mx521de monochrome all in one laser printer alternatives, you might need a different footprint or connectivity option. This machine is heavy and primarily wired, which may not fit every workspace layout.
We selected 6 alternatives based on overlapping specifications. These options include models with wireless connectivity, color printing capabilities, or more compact designs. Some offer fax features, while others focus on smaller footprints for desktop use. You can choose a device that matches your specific need for speed, size, or functionality. Each listed printer shares core traits like monochrome output or all-in-one scanning, ensuring they serve similar office roles. Review the specs to find the best fit for your team.
Our top pick: Lexmark MX521de All-in-One Laser Printer.
Comparing alternatives to the Lexmark MX521de
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2710DW is significantly smaller and lighter than the Lexmark MX521de, measuring 16.1 by 15.7 inches and weighing 26 pounds. It includes a built-in fax function, which the Lexmark lacks. This model supports wireless connectivity and duplex scanning, making it suitable for small offices that need faxing capabilities. While it may not match the Lexmark’s high-volume throughput, its compact footprint and wireless flexibility offer a practical alternative for teams that prioritize space efficiency and essential multifunction features over raw speed.
Epson EcoTank ET-4958 All-in-One Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-4958 differs by offering color printing instead of the Lexmark’s monochrome output. It uses refillable ink tanks, which can reduce long-term supply costs for high-volume color tasks. This model supports wireless connectivity and duplex scanning, fitting teams that need color graphics without cartridge swaps. It is lighter and more compact than the Lexmark, weighing 16.1 pounds. If your workflow requires color documents and automatic duplexing, this EcoTank provides a versatile solution, though it sacrifices the dedicated monochrome speed and durability of the Lexmark MX521de.
Canon imageCLASS Monochrome All-in-One
The Canon imageCLASS MF453dw provides a color touch interface and wireless connectivity, similar to the Lexmark’s touch screen but with added network flexibility. It weighs 35.7 pounds, making it lighter than the Lexmark’s 52.3-pound chassis. This model supports duplex scanning and includes a fax function, which the Lexmark does not. It is designed for users who prioritize speed and a clear interface. If you need reliable wireless monochrome printing with one-pass duplex scanning and fax capabilities, this Canon model offers a balanced desktop solution compared to the heavier Lexmark workgroup machine.
Brother Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2395DW focuses on print resolution, supporting up to 2400 dpi for crisp text output. It is compact and lightweight, lacking the wireless connectivity found in the Lexmark MX521de. This model supports duplex printing and scanning, making it suitable for small offices needing fast monochrome output. It is ideal for users who prioritize resolution and a small footprint over network features. If your team handles text-heavy reports and needs reliable duplex scanning without wireless convenience, this Brother model offers a focused, high-resolution alternative to the larger Lexmark all-in-one.
Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome all-in-one that supports wireless connectivity and duplex scanning. It weighs 25 pounds, significantly lighter than the Lexmark MX521de. This model is designed for small offices that prioritize speed and a small footprint over color features. It lacks a fax function but includes mobile printing support. If you primarily handle text documents and need reliable wireless connectivity in a compact form, this Brother MFP offers a practical alternative to the heavier, wired-focused Lexmark machine for teams that value space efficiency.
Lexmark MS622de All-in-One Laser Printer
The Lexmark MS622de is another monochrome all-in-one from the same brand, designed for wired office environments. It supports duplex printing and scanning, similar to the MX521de, but lacks wireless connectivity. This model is ideal for offices that prioritize wired stability and high-volume monochrome printing over wireless convenience. It is slightly smaller than the MX521de, measuring 17 by 18 inches. If your workflow requires dedicated wired performance and reliable duplex scanning without the need for wireless features, this Lexmark model offers a stable, focused alternative for busy workgroups.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Lexmark MX521de All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: high-volume monochrome workgroups needing fast duplex output
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-one
- Supported Functions
- Printing, copying, scanning
- Print Speed
- 46 ppm
- Connectivity
- Network Ready
View on Amazon: Lexmark MX521de All-in-One Laser Printer Affiliate link
This monochrome all-in-one laser printer handles high-volume document workflows with print speeds reaching 46 pages per minute. A 1 GHz dual-core processor and 1 GB of memory power print, copy, and scan tasks. You manage jobs via a 4.3-inch color touch screen. It suits your mid-size workgroup if you need fast throughput and duplex handling.
Pros
- Print speeds reach up to 46 pages per minute
- Scanner captures up to 45 images per minute with duplex support
- Built-in 4.3-inch color touch screen for job management
- High-yield replacement toner cartridges support up to 25,000 pages
Cons
- Heavy build weighing 52.3 pounds
- Specifications list wired network readiness without built-in Wi-Fi
- Monochrome print output only without color printing
Good fit if
- You need rapid output up to 46 pages per minute for office queues.
- You require integrated duplex printing and duplex scanning in one machine.
- You want high toner capacity reaching up to 25,000 pages per cartridge.
Skip if
- You need color document printing rather than monochrome output.
- You require out-of-the-box Wi-Fi connectivity rather than a wired network port.
- You have limited workspace to accommodate a 52.3-pound machine.
Verdict: Lexmark All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer delivers heavy-duty 46 ppm monochrome throughput and duplex document capture for busy mid-size offices. Its 52.3-pound chassis and wired network setup make it dedicated office workgroup equipment.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing fax and duplex scanning
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Supported Functions
- Scan, Copy
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother MFC-L2710DW is a compact wireless monochrome laser all-in-one printer. It supports print, copy, scan, and fax functions. The unit includes an automatic document feeder and duplex scanning for efficient multi-page jobs. You get mobile printing capabilities and a footprint of 16.1 by 15.7 inches. This model suits small offices needing fax support and reliable wireless connectivity.
Pros
- Includes fax functionality
- Automatic document feeder for batch scanning
- Duplex scanning capability
- Wireless mobile printing support
Cons
- No color printing capability
- Heavier build at 26 pounds
- Limited to monochrome output
Good fit if
- You need a fax machine integrated with your printer
- You require duplex scanning for double-sided documents
- You want a compact wireless printer for a small office
Skip if
- You need color printing for photos or graphics
- You prefer a lighter, portable device
- You do not require fax capabilities
Verdict: The Brother MFC-L2710DW Wireless Monochrome AIO fits small offices that require faxing and duplex scanning. It delivers essential monochrome printing with a compact wireless design.
Epson EcoTank ET-4958 All-in-One Printer
Best for: High-volume color printing and duplex tasks
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy
- Print Speed
- 18 black / 9 color ISO ppm
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic
View on Amazon: Epson EcoTank ET-4958 All-in-One Printer Affiliate link
The Epson EcoTank ET-4958 is a wireless all-in-one color printer with an integrated ink tank system. It prints up to 18 pages per minute in black and 9 in color. The unit includes ink bottles rated for 8,500 black and 6,500 color pages. It features automatic two-sided printing and a 250-sheet paper capacity. This model suits users who need color output and high-yield refillable tanks.
Pros
- Includes ink bottles rated for up to 8,500 black and 6,500 color pages
- Prints up to 18 black and 9 color ISO pages per minute
- Features automatic two-sided printing and copying
- Uses heat-free PrecisionCore technology with a permanent printhead
Cons
- Prints in color, whereas the Lexmark MX521de is monochrome
- Maximum print speed is 18 ppm, slower than many monochrome rivals
- 2.4-inch display is small compared to larger office panels
Good fit if
- You need color printing capabilities for graphics or photos
- You want to avoid frequent cartridge replacements with high-yield ink tanks
- You require automatic two-sided printing to save paper
Skip if
- You only need black and white text documents
- You require a print speed faster than 18 pages per minute
- You prefer a compact device under 14 inches in width
Verdict: Epson EcoTank ET-4958 Color Supertank AIO offers a practical color solution with high-yield refillable tanks. It fits teams that need color graphics and automatic duplexing without the hassle of cartridge swaps.
Canon imageCLASS Monochrome All-in-One
Best for: fast monochrome output and color touch interface
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, Copy, Scan
- Print Speed
- 40 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless
View on Amazon: Canon imageCLASS Monochrome All-in-One Affiliate link
The Canon imageCLASS MF453dw is a monochrome all-in-one laser printer designed for desktop use. It delivers print speeds of up to 40 pages per minute with a first print time of less than 6 seconds. You get wireless connectivity, including WiFi Direct, and support for mobile printing via Apple AirPrint and Mopria. The unit includes a 5-inch color touch screen and one-pass duplex scanning. It is a solid choice for offices needing fast, reliable monochrome output without fax capabilities.
Pros
- Prints up to 40 pages per minute
- First page out in less than 6 seconds
- One-pass duplex scanning via automatic document feeder
- WiFi Direct allows connection without a router
- 5-inch color touch screen interface
Cons
- No fax function in this specific model
- Lacks a built-in Ethernet port in the listed specs
- No mention of a mobile app for full remote management
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome printing for a small office
- You prefer a color touch screen for navigation
- You want wireless printing without a router via WiFi Direct
Skip if
- You require fax capabilities
- You need color printing
- You prefer a compact printer under 30 pounds
Verdict: The Canon imageCLASS MF453dw Desktop Laser Printer fits teams that prioritize speed and a clear color interface over fax functions. It is best for users who want reliable wireless monochrome printing with one-pass duplex scanning.
Brother Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: Small offices needing fast monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, Scan, Copy
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, Ethernet
View on Amazon: Brother Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother HL-L2395DW is a compact monochrome all-in-one laser printer designed for small offices. It delivers print speeds of up to 36 ppm and a high resolution of 2400 dpi. You get automatic duplex printing, scanning, and copying in a single unit. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB 2.0. The 2.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies operation. This model suits users who need fast, high-quality black-and-white output in a space-saving footprint.
Pros
- Prints at speeds up to 36 ppm
- Maximum print resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi
- Includes automatic duplex printing
- Supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB 2.0
- Features a 2.7-inch color touchscreen LCD
Cons
- Lacks an automatic document feeder for batch scanning
- Only supports monochrome output
- Includes only a starter toner cartridge
Good fit if
- You need fast printing for small office documents
- You require high-resolution text output
- You want automatic two-sided printing
Skip if
- You need to print in color
- You must scan multiple pages automatically
- You prefer a larger paper capacity
Verdict: Brother HL-L2395DW Monochrome AIO is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed and resolution in a compact monochrome workflow. It fits teams that print text-heavy reports and need reliable wireless connectivity without the bulk of a larger machine.
Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing fast monochrome printing
- 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 multifunction printer designed for small offices. It delivers print speeds up to 36 ppm and includes a 50-page auto document feeder for efficient scanning. The unit supports dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. Its small footprint fits tight workspaces while offering duplex printing and mobile app control for managing documents on the go.
Pros
- Print speeds reach 36 ppm for fast document output
- Includes a 50-page auto document feeder for batch scanning
- Supports dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Compact design measures 16.1 inches wide
Cons
- Lacks color printing capability
- Does not include fax functionality
- Only supports monochrome scanning
Good fit if
- You need a compact printer for a small office
- You require fast monochrome printing speeds
- You want automatic duplex scanning and copying
Skip if
- You need color printing or scanning
- You require fax capabilities
- You prefer a larger flatbed scanner for photos
Verdict: Brother DCP-L2640DW Compact Monochrome MFP is a practical choice for teams that prioritize speed and a small footprint over color features. It suits users who primarily handle text documents and need reliable wireless connectivity.
Lexmark MS622de All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: wired office monochrome printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Supported Functions
- Scan, Copy
- Connectivity
- Ethernet
- Duplex Printing
- Duplex Printing
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier
View on Amazon: Lexmark MS622de All-in-One Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Lexmark MS622de is a monochrome laser all-in-one printer designed for networked office environments. It supports printing, scanning, and copying with automatic duplex printing. Connectivity relies on Ethernet, making it suitable for wired office setups. The unit measures 17 by 18 by 18 inches and weighs approximately 17.6 kilograms. It offers a sturdy build for high-volume tasks.
Pros
- Monochrome laser print technology
- Automatic duplex printing
- Scan and copy functions
- Ethernet network connectivity
Cons
- No wireless connectivity options
- No color printing capability
- Limited to duplex scanning, not multi-function advanced features
Good fit if
- You need a wired Ethernet connection
- You require automatic two-sided printing
- You primarily print monochrome documents
Skip if
- You need wireless printing
- You require color output
- You want a compact desktop footprint
Verdict: Lexmark MS622de Monochrome All-in-One is a solid choice for offices that prioritize wired stability and high-volume monochrome printing over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lexmark MX521de All-in-One Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer | Epson EcoTank ET-4958 All-in-One Printer | Canon imageCLASS Monochrome All-in-One | Brother Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer | Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer | Lexmark MS622de All-in-One Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser | not stated | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Monochrome | Color | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | All-in-one | All-in-One | All-in-One | All-in-One | All-in-One | not stated | not stated |
| Supported Functions | Printing, copying, scanning | not stated | Print, copy | Print, Copy, Scan | Print, Scan, Copy | Print, copy, scan | Scan, Copy |
| Print Speed | 46 ppm | not stated | 18 black / 9 color ISO ppm | 40 ppm | 36 ppm | 36 ppm | not stated |
| Connectivity | Network Ready | Wireless | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet | Wireless | Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, Ethernet | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Ethernet |
| Duplex Printing | Duplex Printing | not stated | Automatic | not stated | Auto Duplex | not stated | Duplex Printing |
| First Page Out | not stated | not stated | not stated | Less than 6 seconds | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Ink/Toner System | Cartridge | not stated | Ink tank | Toner | Toner | Toner cartridge | not stated |
| Print Resolution | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Up to 2400 dpi | not stated | not stated |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Touch Screen, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Duplex Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Touch Screen, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Duplex Printing, Touch Screen, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier |
| Ideal For | not stated | not stated | Documents | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Scanner Type | not stated | Portable | not stated | Desktop | not stated | Portable | not stated |
| Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning | Auto Document Feeder | Wireless Scanning | not stated | Wireless Scanning | not stated |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex |
| Auto Document Feeder | not stated | ADF | ADF | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 22.7 × 24.2 × 20.1 inches | 15.7 × 16.1 × 10.7 inches | 13.7 × 14.8 × 9.4 inches | 18.3 × 17.8 × 15.4 inches | 14 × 14.2 × 7.2 inches | 15.7 × 16.1 × 12.5 inches | 18 × 17 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 52.3 pounds | 26 pounds | 16.1 pounds | 35.7 pounds | not stated | 25 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 18.8 x 19.3 x 16.9 in. | not stated | 13.7"D x 14.8"W x 9.4"H | One Size | not stated | Standard | 1 |
| Color | Grey | Black | White | Monochrome Printer without Fax | Black | Black | Grey |
| Model | 36S0800 | MFC-L27 10DW | C11CL40203 | 5161C011 | HL-L2395DW | DCPL2640DW | MS622de |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best color printing capability?
The Epson EcoTank ET-4958 is the only color option on this list. It uses refillable ink tanks for high-volume color graphics. The machine supports automatic duplex printing and includes an automatic document feeder. It is ideal for teams that need color output without frequent cartridge swaps.
What is the smallest and lightest monochrome alternative?
The Brother HL-L2395DW is the most compact choice. It measures 14.2 by 14 inches and lacks a listed weight. This model prioritizes speed and resolution in a small footprint. It is suitable for users who print text-heavy reports and want reliable wireless connectivity without bulky hardware.
Which model includes a built-in fax function?
The Brother MFC-L2710DW includes a built-in fax function. It is designed for small offices needing faxing and duplex scanning. The unit supports wireless connectivity and features a compact design. This model fits teams that require essential monochrome printing alongside traditional fax capabilities.
Is there a wired-only option for stable office use?
The Lexmark MS622de is a solid choice for wired stability. It supports duplex printing and includes scanning and copying functions. This model prioritizes wired connections over wireless convenience. It is best for offices that need high-volume monochrome printing with a dedicated network setup.
Which printer has the highest print resolution?
The Brother HL-L2395DW offers up to 2400 dpi resolution. This high resolution ensures sharp text and clear details in monochrome output. The machine includes duplex printing and a touch screen. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize print quality in a compact workflow.
How do the dimensions of the Canon MF453dw compare?
The Canon imageCLASS MF453dw measures 17.8 by 18.3 inches and weighs 35.7 pounds. It includes a color touch interface and wireless connectivity. The machine supports one-pass duplex scanning and fax functions. It is best for teams that want reliable wireless monochrome printing with a desktop footprint.
Which alternative is best for small offices needing faxing?
The Brother MFC-L2710DW is best for small offices needing faxing. It features duplex scanning and wireless connectivity. The compact design fits well in limited spaces. This model delivers essential monochrome printing while including fax capabilities that other compact alternatives may lack.