Our take
The Dell S5840cdn is a high-volume color print-only printer rather than an all-in-one. Dell rates simplex output up to 50 ppm and duplex up to 40 ppm in both black and color, and gives it a 2,500–25,000-page recommended monthly range. Standard paper input is 550 sheets in the main tray plus 100 in the multipurpose tray. Gigabit Ethernet and USB are documented; built-in wireless is not listed. This combination suits a busy wired team, but it is far more machine than a small personal queue needs.
A color workgroup with high recurring print volume, Ethernet, automatic duplex and varied paper handling..
Avoid it for copy, scan, fax, built-in Wi-Fi, light personal use, or a compact desk where the large chassis and high workload are unnecessary.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Dell documents 50 ppm simplex and 40 ppm duplex output in both mono and color.
- The 2,500–25,000-page recommended monthly range and 650-sheet base input support a large shared queue.
- Standard duplex and Gigabit Ethernet address two common workgroup requirements.
What to weigh up
- The S5840cdn prints only; a separate device is needed for copying, scanning and fax.
- The 82.6-pound chassis and enterprise workload require floor and placement planning.
- The reviewed standard interface list does not document built-in Wi-Fi.
The key details
| Model covered | Dell Color Smart Printer S5840cdn |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Color print-only laser printer |
| Print output | Up to 50 ppm simplex and 40 ppm duplex; 2,500–25,000 recommended pages/month; 650-sheet standard input |
| Two-sided printing | Standard automatic duplex; Gigabit Ethernet and USB |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 9, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Buy for a real color workgroup
Dell lists a 2,500–25,000-page monthly recommendation and a maximum duty cycle of 150,000 pages. The recommended range describes the workload Dell associates with regular use; the maximum is not an operating target. That high floor makes the S5840cdn a poor default for occasional home printing even though the speed rating looks attractive. Compare the expected page count against the range before evaluating optional capacity or a headline ppm figure.
Use duplex speed and input capacity together
Dell rates simplex Letter output up to 50 ppm and duplex up to 40 ppm in mono and color. Automatic duplex is standard, and the base input totals 650 sheets across a 550-sheet tray and 100-sheet multipurpose feed. Together those specifications can reduce both page handling and reload interruptions in a busy queue. They do not guarantee the same speed on every job; document complexity, media and the condition of an older machine affect real output.
Plan the wired network path
The spec sheet lists Gigabit Ethernet and USB interfaces. It does not list built-in wireless networking, so the standard model is a wired-office choice. That can be an advantage where network cabling and centralized administration are already established, but it is a mismatch for a wireless-only desk without a suitable wired path. Check the port and supported software for the actual printer before purchase. A compatible mobile-print protocol does not turn the device into a Wi-Fi model.
Expect a substantial printer footprint
Dell lists the printer at 18.7 by 19.7 by 16.4 inches and 82.6 pounds with consumables. The dimensions and weight affect delivery, stable placement, access to trays and servicing. The main tray, multipurpose feed and 300-sheet output bin are intended for a shared printing environment rather than a compact personal desk. Check the room, electrical setup and path through doors before arranging a used machine; no seller listing proves that an installation is ready.
Keep it separate from MFP alternatives
The S5840cdn is a color single-function printer. It does not copy, scan or fax, so an office that receives paperwork or digitizes originals needs a separate device. The Lexmark CX417de in this group offers those functions with a lower recommended page band, but its rated color print speed and paper input are different. The choice hinges on whether the queue is mainly high-volume color output or a mixed document workflow, not on a generic ranking of the two machines.
What else to compare
The Lexmark CX417de provides copy, scan and fax over Ethernet, with an 800–6,000-page recommendation and optional Wi-Fi. Choose it for a mixed document workflow; choose Dell for a much higher-volume print-only queue.
Before you buy
Does the S5840cdn print automatically on both sides?
Yes. Dell lists a standard duplexer and separate duplex output rates for the printer.
What network connection is standard?
Dell documents Gigabit Ethernet and USB. Built-in wireless is not included in the reviewed standard interface list.
What workload does Dell recommend?
Dell recommends 2,500–25,000 pages per month; the 150,000-page figure is a maximum duty cycle, not the routine recommendation.
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 U.S. S5840cdn specification sheet for output, duplex, paper handling, connection and workload ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
- Dell U.S. S5840cdn specifications: output speeds, duplex, input, Ethernet and recommended monthly volume ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
The decision
The S5840cdn is a strong fit only when a wired team can use its color speed, duplex and 2,500–25,000-page band. Its size, print-only role and lack of documented standard Wi-Fi narrow the audience.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.