Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Canon
Canon FAXPHONE L170 Monochrome Laser Fax Printer

A mono laser fax and printer with a 50-sheet ADF. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

Canon's U.S. support page identifies the FAXPHONE L170 as a monochrome laser fax/printer rated at 19 pages per minute on Letter. It lists a 250-sheet cassette, a 50-sheet ADF for fax originals, a telephone handset and USB as the standard interface. The reviewed source does not establish copying, scanning, automatic duplex or a recommended monthly range. That makes the L170 a narrower choice than a multifunction laser model: it can print and handle fax jobs, but should not be described as a full copy/scan all-in-one. Consider it only if those documented tasks cover the need and the exact connection is suitable.

Consider it for

A small desk that needs monochrome printing and fax handling with USB, and does not require a copier or scanner..

Look elsewhere if

Skip it if you need copy/scan, automatic duplex, wireless or Ethernet networking, color, or a recommended monthly page range.

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Pros & cons

What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.

What works in its favor

  • Canon confirms the exact L170 monochrome laser printer/fax identity.
  • The listed 250-sheet cassette and 50-sheet fax ADF support multi-page fax workflows.
  • USB is documented as the standard interface.

What to weigh up

  • Copying and scanning are not established in the reviewed source.
  • Automatic and manual duplex are not confirmed.
  • A recommended monthly page range and network interfaces are not listed.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredFAXPHONE L170
Main functionsMonochrome laser printing and fax; copy/scan not confirmed
Print outputUp to 19 ppm Letter; print resolution 600 × 600 dpi
Two-sided printing250-sheet cassette, 50-sheet fax ADF and USB; duplex unknown

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 15, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

Full review: how the features affect your choice

What the features mean for you

A fax and printer, not a general MFP

Canon's U.S. specification identifies the FAXPHONE L170 as a laser printer with fax functions. The source documents fax reception and transmission features, but does not list a scanner or copier function. That difference matters because a buyer who reads “all-in-one” broadly may expect copy and scan tools that the reviewed exact model page does not confirm. Treat it as a printer/fax combination and keep separate equipment available for document capture. The product page gives the model's U.S. technical profile ([Canon FAXPHONE L170](https://www.usa.canon.com/support/p/faxphone-l170)).

Print speed is modest but clearly rated

Canon rates the L170 at 19 pages per minute for black text on Letter. This gives a specific comparison point for a small office printing routine forms or correspondence. It is not a measured result from this review, and a fax job, warm-up state, driver or paper condition may affect the time a user sees. The page also lists 600 × 600 dpi and a higher quality output mode. A buyer whose primary task is printing large volumes should compare the machine with a dedicated mono workgroup printer, while a desk that needs occasional faxing may value the integrated function more.

The ADF feeds fax originals

Canon lists a 50-sheet automatic document feeder under facsimile specifications, alongside a 250-sheet cassette for printed pages. The feeder supports sending multi-page fax documents without placing each sheet manually. The reviewed page does not say that the feeder performs duplex scanning, and it does not establish copying or scan-to-computer functions. Those are separate tasks and should not be inferred from the presence of an ADF. Check that the exact handset, feeder and cassette are present and working if the printer is being bought used or refurbished.

USB is the documented connection

Canon lists USB as the L170's standard interface. The reviewed exact-model source does not list Ethernet or Wi-Fi, so the profile treats this as a direct-connected device rather than a confirmed network printer. Before purchase, verify a compatible driver for the computer in use and inspect the USB port. A shared printer setup may be possible through a host computer, but that is different from built-in network hardware. Buyers who need several people to print directly should choose an exact model with documented Ethernet or wireless support.

Leave duplex and workload open

The checked Canon specifications do not state automatic or manual duplex behavior for the L170, nor do they give a recommended monthly page range. Those fields remain unknown rather than being filled from a related fax model or the product's maximum capability. If two-sided output is important, locate an exact manual before treating the printer as a match. If workload guidance matters for procurement, ask Canon for an exact recommendation or compare a model with a published range. The L170's documented cassette, fax feeder and USB can still support a simple desk role.

Compare for your needs

For scanning and copying choose a mono laser MFP; for shared network use choose a model with Ethernet or Wi-Fi documented for its exact configuration.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

Find the undefined that fits you.

Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.

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Before you buy

Does the L170 make copies or scan to a computer?

Canon's reviewed specification documents printing and faxing, but does not establish copy or scan functions.

How much paper does the cassette hold?

Canon lists a 250-sheet cassette for the FAXPHONE L170.

Can I fax a multi-page document through an ADF?

Yes. Canon lists a 50-sheet automatic document feeder in its fax specifications.

Does the L170 have Ethernet or Wi-Fi?

The reviewed U.S. specification lists USB as standard and does not establish network interfaces.

Does Canon confirm duplex printing?

The checked exact-model source does not settle automatic or manual duplex behavior.

Where can I check the current price?

Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.

Sources and review basis

Sources & review basis

We use the linked product documentation for the features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.

Read our research and update process →

The decision

The L170 combines monochrome laser printing and fax handling, but its USB-only evidence and unconfirmed copy, scan and duplex features narrow its role.

Is it the right fit?

Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.