Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Dell
B1163w Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer

Compact mono printing, copying and scanning with Wi-Fi. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How our links work. This review uses linked manufacturer documentation. We have not tested this product hands-on.
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

Dell identifies the B1163w as a monochrome laser multifunction printer that prints, copies and scans. Its stated maximum print speed is 21 pages per minute on Letter paper, with a 150-sheet input capacity and wireless networking. Dell's brochure gives a typical monthly volume of 200–800 pages, which describes an expected usage band rather than a manufacturer-recommended range. Duplex is manual, so users must turn and reload pages themselves. The documented configuration fits a light desk or home-office routine where one wireless device handles common paper tasks. It is a poor match for offices that require fax, automatic two-sided output, Ethernet or a published recommended workload range.

Consider it for

A light personal or home-office workflow that needs occasional scanning and wireless access without fax or wired networking..

Look elsewhere if

Skip it if fax, automatic duplex, wired Ethernet, an automatic document feeder or a defined recommended monthly range is required.

Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Dell documents print, copy and scan in one monochrome laser unit.
  • The stated 21 ppm Letter rating and 150-sheet input suit a modest paper routine.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi allows network placement without a standard Ethernet connection.

What to weigh up

  • Two-sided jobs require manual page handling rather than an integrated duplexer.
  • The brochure's 200–800 typical monthly volume is not a recommended-volume specification.
  • Dell's cited configuration does not include fax or Ethernet.

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredB1163w
Main functionsMonochrome laser print, copy and scan; no fax
Print outputUp to 21 ppm Letter; 150-sheet input
Two-sided printingWi-Fi; manual two-sided printing only; no Ethernet

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 10, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

What the features mean for you

Three basic document functions in a mono device

Dell describes the B1163w as a monochrome multifunction printer for print, copy and scan. That combination can reduce the number of devices on a small desk when paper capture and occasional copies accompany black text output. It does not include fax in the documented function list, so a team that sends paper faxes should compare an actual fax MFP rather than rely on the broad all-in-one label. The monochrome engine is also a clear boundary: color documents need another device or a different model. Match the function list to the routine before considering speed or wireless placement.

Rated speed and tray capacity suit measured use

Dell rates the B1163w up to 21 pages per minute on Letter and lists a 150-sheet input. Those figures describe a modest desktop scale: short forms and routine black documents can be handled without choosing a larger office printer, while repeated long jobs or multiple users sharing the tray may make reloading more noticeable. The maximum speed is a rating, not a promise for every file, connection or print setting. Dell's brochure gives typical monthly volume of 200–800 pages. Since that is not labeled a recommended range, it should not be compared as if it were a validated workload floor and ceiling in the questionnaire.

Manual duplex adds a page-turning step

The reviewed Dell material describes manual two-sided printing rather than an automatic duplexer. To make a two-sided handout, the user must print one side, handle the stack and reload it in the correct orientation for the second pass. That can be reasonable for occasional pages, but it adds attention and handling to recurring reports. Users who frequently produce double-sided documents should prioritize an explicitly documented automatic duplex feature. The profile does not treat a generic duplex mention as automatic, and this model should remain outside recommendations that require an automatic print path.

Wi-Fi provides the documented network option

Dell's brochure places the B1163w among wireless monochrome models. Built-in Wi-Fi is useful when the printer needs to sit near paper storage or a workstation without a nearby Ethernet drop, though the actual network setup still depends on the office's supported security and device environment. The reviewed configuration does not establish standard Ethernet, so a cable-based shared network should not be assumed. USB remains an appropriate direct connection for a single computer where that is the intended arrangement. Check the device's label and current setup material before planning a legacy printer around a network feature that the source does not list.

Keep the age and condition check separate

Dell's support material identifies the model family, but the cited specifications do not establish current supplies, driver compatibility with a particular computer or the condition of an individual unit. For any older device, inspect the print path, scanner glass, controls, wireless connection and maintenance messages before making it part of a routine. The brochure's maximum duty figure is a limit rather than a recommendation, and the typical monthly range is not a substitute for one. This review makes no claim about current Amazon inventory, included toner, remaining cartridge life, price or an actual used unit's performance. Confirm those details on the exact listing and against current support resources.

What else to compare

Choose an automatic-duplex mono MFP for frequent two-sided jobs, or a fax-capable model if paper fax is part of the workflow.

Explore this category →

Before you buy

Does the Dell B1163w include fax?

Dell's documented B1163w functions are print, copy and scan; the reviewed sources do not list fax.

Does it print both sides automatically?

No. Dell's brochure describes manual duplexing, which requires the user to turn and reload pages.

What monthly volume does Dell recommend?

The brochure gives typical monthly volume of 200–800 pages, not a recommended monthly range.

Does it have Ethernet?

The reviewed configuration establishes Wi-Fi and USB but does not establish standard Ethernet.

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.

Read our research and update process →

The decision

The B1163w is a modest wireless mono printer, copier and scanner. Its manual duplex, absent fax and unspecified recommended workload should guide the fit decision.

Is it the right fit?

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

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.