Our take
The Dell 1720 is a monochrome print-only laser printer, not the networked Dell 1720dn. Dell's user's guide explains that the base 1720 uses USB and parallel connections and handles two-sided printing manually; Ethernet and automatic duplex are documented for the dn sibling. That suffix difference is the central buying issue. If a direct-connected older workstation is the goal and a person can turn pages for occasional duplex jobs, the base model has a defined niche. It is a poor match for a shared network queue or routine automatic duplex requirement.
A direct-connected monochrome printer for an older workstation where manual duplex is acceptable and model identity is carefully checked..
Skip the 1720 if you need Ethernet, Wi-Fi, automatic duplex, copy/scan/fax, or a known current driver and support path without checking the exact host computer.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Dell's guide distinguishes the base 1720 from the 1720dn networked variant.
- USB and parallel connections are documented for a direct-connected workflow.
- Manual duplex offers two-sided output when the user can handle page turning.
What to weigh up
- The 1720 lacks the Ethernet and automatic duplex documented for the 1720dn sibling.
- Wireless, recommended monthly volume, and current operating-system support are not established in this source summary.
- Manual duplex adds steps and can be inconvenient for long document stacks.
The key details
| Model covered | 1720 |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Print only |
| Print output | Monochrome laser |
| Two-sided printing | Manual duplex |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 8, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Do not confuse 1720 and 1720dn
Dell's user's guide covers both Laser Printer 1720 and 1720dn, but they are not interchangeable configurations. The base 1720 is a monochrome print-only laser model. Ethernet and automatic two-sided printing belong to the 1720dn sibling in the guide. A reseller title or shared manual can blur those variants, so check the model badge and suffix on the actual machine. This matters more than a general family name: a buyer who needs network sharing could receive a device that only supports direct local connections if the suffix is missed.
USB and parallel suit a local connection
Dell lists USB and parallel interfaces for the base 1720. That can suit a single host computer, or an older workstation that already has the needed cable and driver path. It is not evidence of Wi-Fi or Ethernet for this exact printer. If a team expects every computer on a network to print to the device, verify a supported sharing method rather than assuming the dn sibling's port applies. The review leaves network attributes unknown where source support is missing; the simplest fit is a direct connection that the owner can maintain.
Manual duplex requires a person in the loop
The base 1720 can produce two-sided pages through a manual process, which means the user handles and reloads sheets between sides. That can be acceptable for an occasional two-sided page, but it brings extra work to a multi-page packet and makes the exact loading sequence important. The automatic duplex function belongs to the 1720dn, not this model. If paper-saving duplex is a frequent requirement, choose a model with automatic duplex confirmed on its own product record. Manual capability should not be presented as equivalent convenience.
Match speed and workload only with evidence
The saved guide supports model identity, interfaces, and the duplex distinction; it does not establish a recommended monthly page range in the packet used here. A print speed or maximum duty-cycle figure would still answer a different question. Estimate actual workload and find an exact Dell recommendation if volume is high or contractually important. Without such evidence, the profile leaves both monthly endpoints unknown, and the printer should not be screened into a volume-specific routine based on a familiar model name.
Check the legacy connection path
A printer of this generation can depend on drivers and host operating systems that are no longer typical in new deployments. Dell's manual describes hardware, but the review does not claim current compatibility with a particular version of Windows, macOS, or Linux. Verify the exact computer, port, cable, and supported driver before purchase. Ask whether toner is included and what condition the unit is in; neither a seller's wording nor the manual proves the state of a particular device. This avoids turning a direct printer into an unexpected compatibility project.
Choose the base model for simplicity only
The Xerox B230/DNI offers wireless and automatic duplex in the published mono print-only group, which is more convenient for shared contemporary placement; its feature set differs from the Dell 1720. The Dell may suit an owner who specifically has a direct USB or parallel workstation and can accept manual turning. The right answer follows those needs, not an assumption that an older machine is automatically inexpensive or easy to support. No price, supply, or availability claim is attached to this comparison; check the particular offer separately.
What else to compare
Choose a verified wireless duplex mono printer such as the Xerox B230/DNI when shared network access and automatic two-sided output are priorities.
Before you buy
Is the Dell 1720 the same as the 1720dn?
No. Dell's guide distinguishes them; Ethernet and automatic duplex are documented for the dn variant, not the base 1720.
Does the base 1720 have automatic duplex?
No automatic duplex is documented for this model. Dell describes manual two-sided printing, which requires user page handling.
Can several people print over Wi-Fi?
The reviewed guide lists USB and parallel for the base model and does not establish Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Verify the exact configuration and supported sharing path.
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 & review basis
We use the following manufacturer documentation for the product features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- Dell 1720/1720dn User's Guide ↗ — checked October 8, 2026.
- Dell guide distinguishing 1720 from 1720dn interfaces and duplex ↗ — checked October 8, 2026.
The decision
The Dell 1720 is a narrow direct-connected legacy option. Its manual duplex and wired local ports fit only when the base model's limits are acceptable.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.