Up to 42 Ppm vs Up to 30 Ppm Laser Printers: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between an Up to 42 ppm vs Up to 30 ppm laser printer depends on your daily volume. Both Canon models are monochrome wireless multifunction devices with automatic duplex printing. The main difference is speed. The MF465dw prints up to 42 pages per minute, while the MF273dw handles 30 pages per minute. Both start printing in about five seconds. You also get scanning, copying, and wireless connectivity on each. The faster model adds faxing and a larger paper capacity.
Key differences
| Aspect | Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 42 ppm | Up to 30 ppm |
| Supported Functions | Print, scan, copy, fax | Print, scan, copy |
| Paper Capacity | Up to 900 sheets | Not listed |
| Dimensions | 16.6 x 14.8 x 18.1 inches | 15.4 x 14.4 x 14.6 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One if
- You need to fax documents regularly.
- You print high volumes of text pages daily.
- You want a larger paper tray to reduce refills.
Choose Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser if
- You prefer a smaller footprint for limited desk space.
- Your monthly print volume stays under 1,000 pages.
- You only need basic print, scan, and copy tasks.
Verdict: The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw suits busy offices that need faxing and faster throughput. The MF273dw is a compact choice for light users who do not need fax capabilities. Pick the 42 ppm model if speed and extra functions matter most.
Speed and Functionality Comparison
Print Speed
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw prints up to 42 pages per minute, while the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw reaches up to 30 pages per minute. This difference matters if you print large batches daily. The MF465dw handles higher volumes faster, reducing wait times. The MF273dw is adequate for moderate workloads. Both machines have similar first-page-out times, around five seconds. However, the sustained speed of the MF465dw gives it a clear advantage for busy offices. You should choose the faster model if time is critical.
Supported Functions
The MF465dw is a 4-in-1 device that includes print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities. The MF273dw is a 3-in-1 unit that offers print, scan, and copy functions but lacks fax. If you need to send or receive faxes, the MF465dw is the only option. Both units handle scanning and copying well. The inclusion of faxing in the MF465dw makes it more versatile for traditional office needs. The MF273dw is sufficient if you do not use fax services. This functional difference is a key decision factor for many users.
Paper Capacity
The MF465dw offers a generous, expandable paper capacity of up to 900 sheets. It includes a standard 250-sheet cassette, a 100-sheet multipurpose tray, and supports an optional 550-sheet cassette. The MF273dw does not list a specific total capacity in the provided data, though it includes an automatic document feeder. The MF465dw is better for high-volume environments where you want to avoid frequent refills. The MF273dw may require more attention to paper levels. For heavy users, the larger capacity of the MF465dw is a significant benefit.
Build and Size
The MF465dw is larger and heavier, measuring 16.6 x 18.1 x 14.8 inches and weighing 34.4 pounds. The MF273dw is more compact, measuring 15.4 x 14.6 x 14.4 inches and weighing 24.7 pounds. The MF273dw saves space on your desk or in a small office. The MF465dw requires more room but offers more features. If space is limited, the MF273dw is the practical choice. If you have room, the MF465dw provides more functionality. The size difference reflects the additional hardware in the larger model.
Scan Speed
The MF465dw scans documents at up to 100 images per minute in black and white, and 80 images per minute in color, using its 50-sheet automatic document feeder. The MF273dw scans at 30 pages per minute. The MF465dw is much faster for digitizing multi-page documents. This speed advantage is important if you scan frequently. The MF273dw is slower but still functional for light scanning tasks. The significant difference in scan speed makes the MF465dw superior for document-heavy workflows. You will notice the speed gap when processing large stacks of paper.
Connectivity
Both printers support wireless connectivity. The MF465dw allows mobile printing via the Canon PRINT Business app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. The MF273dw also supports wireless printing and mobile apps. Both devices offer similar ease of setup and connection options. There is no significant difference in connectivity features between the two models. Both are suitable for wireless office environments. You can print from your phone or tablet with either machine. This aspect is a tie for both products.
Which Canon Laser Printer Fits You
High-volume office users needing fax
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw supports faxing and prints up to 42 pages per minute. It includes a 50-sheet automatic document feeder for efficient multi-page scanning. You also get a larger 900-sheet paper capacity. This model suits busy environments where speed and comprehensive features are essential for daily workflow.
Small teams wanting compact design
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is smaller and lighter at 24.7 pounds. It prints up to 30 pages per minute with automatic duplexing. This multifunction device handles print, copy, and scan tasks. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller workspaces where floor space is limited but wireless connectivity is still required.
Users prioritizing fast first-page output
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw delivers a first print time of approximately 5 seconds. This is slightly faster than the MF273dw's 5.3 seconds. For users who send sporadic but urgent print jobs, this quick start time reduces idle waiting. The 42 ppm speed also ensures rapid processing of larger document batches.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One | High-volume monochrome office workflows | Check price of Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One on Amazon |
| 2 | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser | Light office document printing and scanning | Check price of Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser on Amazon |
The products compared
Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One
Best for: High-volume monochrome office workflows
- Print Speed
- Up to 42 ppm (what this guide is about)
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, scan, copy, fax
- Connectivity
- Wireless
View on Amazon: Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One Affiliate link
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw is a monochrome wireless laser all-in-one printer. It prints up to 42 pages per minute with a first-page-out time of approximately 5 seconds. It supports print, scan, copy, and fax functions. The device features a 50-sheet automatic document feeder and automatic two-sided printing. You get a 5-inch color touchscreen and mobile printing options. It fits busy offices needing fast, high-volume output.
Pros
- Prints up to 42 pages per minute
- First page out in approximately 5 seconds
- 50-sheet one-pass automatic document feeder
- 5-inch color touchscreen interface
- Automatic two-sided printing and scanning
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- Large footprint at 16.6 x 18.1 x 14.8 inches
- Heavy at 34.4 pounds, requiring sturdy surface
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome printing for high-volume tasks
- You require integrated fax and copy capabilities
- You want mobile printing via AirPrint or Canon app
Skip if
- You require color printing for photos or graphics
- You have limited desk space for a large unit
- You prefer a compact single-function printer
Verdict: Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One is a high-speed workhorse for offices needing 42 ppm output and multifunction capabilities. It suits teams that print, scan, and fax large volumes daily.
Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser
Best for: Light office document printing and scanning
- Print Speed
- Up to 30 ppm (what this guide is about)
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Multifunction (all-in-one)
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Connectivity
- Wireless
View on Amazon: Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser Affiliate link
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a wireless monochrome laser multifunction printer. It prints up to 30 pages per minute with a first-page-out time of approximately 5.3 seconds. This model supports auto two-sided printing and includes scanning and copying functions. It uses Toner 071 for its print needs. The unit measures 15.4 by 14.6 by 14.4 inches and weighs 24.7 pounds. It suits small offices needing reliable document handling.
Pros
- Prints up to 30 pages per minute
- First page out in approximately 5.3 seconds
- Supports auto two-sided printing
- Includes wireless connectivity
Cons
- Print speed is lower than the 42 ppm option
- No color printing capability
- Lacks a built-in display screen
Good fit if
- You need a compact wireless printer for a small workspace
- You primarily print black-and-white documents
- You want automatic two-sided printing to save paper
Skip if
- You require high-volume printing above 30 pages per minute
- You need to print in color
- You prefer a faster first-page-out time
Verdict: Canon MF273dw Monochrome Wireless Laser MFP fits users who need basic wireless printing and scanning without the need for high-speed output. It is a practical option for light to moderate office tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Canon imageCLASS MF465dw Monochrome All-in-One | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | All-in-One | Multifunction (all-in-one) |
| Supported Functions | Print, scan, copy, fax | Print, copy, scan |
| Print Speed | 42 ppm | Up to 30 pages per minute |
| Connectivity | Wireless | Wireless |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic 2-sided printing | Auto 2-sided printing |
| First Page Out | Approximately 5 seconds | Approximately 5.3 seconds |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner | Toner 071 / 071 High-Capacity Toner |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier |
| Ideal For | Documents | Documents |
| Use Case | Office, Home | not stated |
| Scanner Type | Portable | not stated |
| Scanning | Auto Document Feeder | Auto Document Feeder |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | not stated |
| Auto Document Feeder | ADF | ADF |
| Scan Speed | not stated | 30 ppm |
| Dimensions | 18.1 × 16.6 × 14.8 inches | 14.6 × 15.4 × 14.4 inches |
| Weight | 34.4 pounds | 24.7 pounds |
| Size | One Size | One Size |
| Color | White | Black |
| Model | 5951C005 | 5621C011 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the 42 ppm printer have fax capabilities?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS MF465dw includes fax functionality. This makes it suitable for offices that still require sending and receiving faxes alongside high-volume printing. The 30 ppm model does not list fax features in its specifications, so it is better for users who only need print, scan, and copy functions.
Can I scan double-sided documents with these machines?
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw supports duplex scanning via its automatic document feeder. This allows you to scan both sides of a page in one pass. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw lists an automatic document feeder but does not specify duplex scanning capabilities, so it likely handles single-sided scans only.
Which printer is better for a home office?
Both models are listed as ideal for office and home use. The MF273dw is smaller and lighter, measuring 14.6 inches in length and weighing 24.7 pounds. The MF465dw is larger and heavier at 34.4 pounds. If space is limited, the 30 ppm model may fit better on a desk.
Do these printers support mobile printing?
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw explicitly lists mobile printing as a feature. This allows you to send jobs from smartphones or tablets. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw data does not mention mobile printing capabilities, so you should verify this feature separately if wireless app control is a priority for your workflow.
Is the 42 ppm speed consistent for all document types?
The specification states up to 42 pages per minute for the MF465dw. This speed applies to standard monochrome document printing. Complex graphics or heavy images may slow down the process. The MF273dw offers up to 30 pages per minute, which is sufficient for moderate daily volumes but slower for large batches.
What is the paper capacity of these printers?
The provided data does not list specific paper tray capacities for either model. However, the MF465dw is described as having a larger paper capacity suitable for high-volume workflows. You should check the full specification sheet for exact sheet counts if you need to know how many sheets fit in the standard trays.