Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

HP
HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw

Compact color fax MFP with Wi-Fi and a low-volume range. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

The HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw is a compact color device that combines printing, copying, scanning and faxing. HP identifies U.S. product 4ZB97A#BGJ and lists up to 19 ppm in black and 4 ppm in color, dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, a 150-sheet input tray and a 40-sheet ADF. Its recommended range is 100–500 pages per month, which points to light use rather than a shared high-volume queue. HP’s specification lists no automatic duplex. HP also marks the model discontinued. Choose it when color and multifunction work matter at a small desk and manual page handling is acceptable; choose another model for faster color or automatic two-sided printing.

Consider it for

An individual or small team needing compact color print, copy, scan and fax with built-in wireless and a light documented workload..

Look elsewhere if

Skip it if color speed, automatic duplex, high monthly volume or a current product lifecycle matters more than compact multifunction use.

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Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet support wireless and wired setup choices.
  • The 40-sheet ADF supports multi-page copy, scan and fax intake.
  • HP states a 100–500 recommended monthly range for a light workload.

What to weigh up

  • The color speed is rated at up to 4 ppm, much lower than its monochrome rating.
  • HP’s reviewed specification lists no automatic duplex printing.
  • HP marks the model discontinued, so check support and compatible supplies for the exact unit.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredColor Laser MFP 179fnw (4ZB97A#BGJ)
Main functionsColor laser print/copy/scan/fax MFP
Print outputUp to 19 ppm black and 4 ppm color; 150-sheet input and 40-sheet ADF
Two-sided printingDual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet; no automatic duplex; 100–500 recommended pages/month

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

Four document tasks in one compact device

HP lists print, copy, scan and fax functions for the Color Laser MFP 179fnw. The exact U.S. product number is 4ZB97A#BGJ. This makes it different from the 178nw sibling, which has different functions and should not be used to fill the 179fnw profile. A household or small office can use one machine for color pages and occasional document handling, but the multifunction design does not make it suitable for a fast shared print queue. Confirm the exact model suffix on the offered unit. ([HP U.S. product page](https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/pdp/hp-color-laser-mfp-179fnw)).

Color speed and monthly fit

HP rates the 179fnw up to 19 pages per minute in black and up to 4 pages per minute in color. The difference matters when color work is frequent: the monochrome rating should not stand in for color throughput. HP recommends 100–500 pages per month, a limited range that supports occasional use rather than a growing office queue. Those manufacturer ratings do not predict performance on a particular file or condition of a used device. If color output is the bulk of the workload, compare the color-speed field explicitly before choosing this compact model.

Wireless and Ethernet connections

The U.S. source lists dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet. A user can connect over a wireless network or use a wired office link, while USB is also included with the product. This flexibility may suit a home workspace with nearby mobile devices. Verify the exact unit’s radios and ports during setup, particularly if it is renewed or refurbished. A network feature does not establish that a bundled cable or third-party accessory is included in a particular listing. HP’s model page describes mobile printing through its app but does not guarantee a specific router or device configuration.

ADF and print duplex are different

HP lists a 40-sheet automatic document feeder, useful when copying, scanning or faxing multi-page originals. The reviewed product specification lists no automatic print duplex, so a two-sided output job requires another method and should not be described as automatic. ADF capacity describes input originals, not the printer’s ability to turn output sheets. Check the feeder and scanner glass on the offered device. This model makes sense when multifunction convenience is more important than seamless double-sided printing; recurring two-sided reports point to a different model.

Light-duty ownership considerations

HP labels the 179fnw discontinued. That fact calls for checking compatible toner, service information and the condition of the exact offered machine; it does not tell us whether a listing is in stock or what it costs. The 150-sheet tray and 100–500-page recommendation fit a lighter routine, but regular color jobs can be constrained by the 4 ppm rating. Consider whether fax and scanning are truly needed at the desk. If not, a printer-only device may be simpler; if they are, this model’s wireless connection and ADF are useful strengths.

Compare for your needs

For two-sided output choose a model with a listed automatic duplexer; for busier color work compare a model with a higher published color speed and workload range.

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Before you buy

Does the 179fnw print in color and fax?

Yes. HP lists color printing and a fax function alongside copying and scanning for the exact 179fnw MFP.

Does it automatically print both sides?

HP’s reviewed product specification lists no automatic duplex printing; the ADF handles document input, not print-output duplexing.

How much monthly printing does HP recommend?

HP lists 100–500 pages per month as the recommended range, separate from its maximum duty-cycle figure.

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.

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Is it the right fit?

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

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