Our take
The HP Color LaserJet 3800dtn is a color printer for a wired workgroup that wants automatic two-sided output and multiple paper sources. HP maps Q5984A#ABA to the dtn configuration, rates it at up to 22 pages per minute on Letter and recommends 1,500–5,000 pages per month. Its standard paper setup includes 250-sheet tray 2, a 100-sheet multipurpose tray and a 500-sheet tray 3. It prints only; copy, scan and fax are not part of this exact device.
A wired workgroup that wants color print-only output, standard automatic duplex and three standard paper sources for a moderate recommended volume..
Choose another model if you need copy, scan, fax, built-in wireless or a currently supported product with confirmed present-day supplies.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- HP documents automatic duplex and an embedded Jetdirect 10/100 Ethernet server for the dtn configuration.
- The three standard trays provide 850 sheets of listed input capacity across their separate feeds.
- The 1,500–5,000 page monthly recommendation provides a manufacturer-stated workload reference.
What to weigh up
- This exact model is print-only and does not include copy, scan or fax functions.
- Built-in wireless is not documented; wireless requires separate optional hardware in the reviewed series materials.
- The model is older, and current supply and service conditions are not established by the specification pages.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | Color LaserJet 3800dtn (Q5984A#ABA) |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Color laser print-only printer |
| Print output | Up to 22 ppm Letter; 1,500–5,000 recommended pages/month |
| Two-sided printing | Automatic duplex, Jetdirect Ethernet, 250-sheet tray, 100-sheet multipurpose tray and 500-sheet tray 3 |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 16, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
Color printing with a defined workgroup range
HP's support specifications list the 3800 series with a 1,500–5,000-page recommended monthly range and up to 22 pages per minute on Letter for the 3800dtn. The recommendation is more useful for planning than a maximum duty-cycle value, but it is not a guarantee of speed on every file or a prediction of toner life. A buyer can compare its expected page volume with HP's range and consider whether the printer's color function is needed often enough to justify a separate print-only device. The 3800dtn does not provide copy, scan or fax functions. ([HP Color LaserJet 3800 series specifications](https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/product-specs/hp-color-laserjet-3800-printer-series/model/500938)).
Three standard feeds reduce paper switching
HP's series guide documents a 250-sheet tray 2, a 100-sheet multipurpose feed and a 500-sheet tray 3 for the dtn configuration. Those separate sources total 850 sheets of standard listed capacity and can help an office keep common paper available while using the multipurpose path for occasional sheets or another media type. The extra capacity does not automatically make the printer a fit for every high-volume queue; HP's recommended monthly range remains 1,500–5,000. When evaluating a used machine, verify that tray 3 is present rather than assuming all listings include it. ([HP Color LaserJet 3800 series guide](https://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c00390171.pdf)).
Automatic duplex is part of the dtn setup
HP's series materials identify automatic duplex printing for the 3800dtn configuration. The model name matters because family documents can cover multiple configurations with different features. Automatic two-sided output can reduce the handwork of turning pages for long reports, but the feature does not mean that every paper size or media type supports duplex in every tray. Confirm the dtn identity and installed hardware on an individual machine, especially if buying used, and check any media restrictions in HP's guide before planning a specialized workflow. ([HP Color LaserJet 3800 series guide](https://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c00390171.pdf)).
Jetdirect Ethernet is the standard network path
HP documents an embedded Jetdirect 10/100 print server for the dtn model, supporting a wired office network. The reviewed sources do not show built-in wireless; HP's series materials describe a separate optional wireless print server. That difference affects placement and setup: a desk without an Ethernet drop may need additional hardware or a different model. The filter records standard wireless as unavailable while keeping Ethernet available. Buyers should verify exactly which networking accessories are included in a used listing and should not infer wireless capability from a generic product-family description. ([HP Color LaserJet 3800 series guide](https://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c00390171.pdf)).
A print-only model with older-product considerations
The 3800dtn handles color printing, not copying, scanning or faxing. Its standard duplex and paper handling may fit a wired print queue, but teams that scan originals or send faxes need separate equipment or an MFP. HP's reviewed support pages establish model features and recommended volume, not current availability, price, remaining supplies or service for an individual unit. Those conditions should be checked with the seller and support channel before purchase. This is particularly relevant for an older model, where the documented specification is stable but the condition of any particular machine varies. ([HP Color LaserJet 3800 series specifications](https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/product-specs/hp-color-laserjet-3800-printer-series/model/500938)).
Compare for your needs
For color copy and scan, compare a color MFP such as the published Ricoh SP C252SF or Dell C5765dn. The HP 3800dtn is a print-only alternative when its multiple trays and automatic duplex matter more than multifunction workflows.
Find the undefined that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
Does the 3800dtn include automatic duplex?
Yes. HP identifies automatic duplex as part of the dtn configuration.
How much paper can the standard trays hold?
HP lists a 250-sheet tray, 100-sheet multipurpose feed and 500-sheet tray 3 for the dtn setup.
Does it have built-in Wi-Fi?
Built-in wireless is not documented. The series materials describe a separate optional wireless print server.
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.
- HP U.S. Color LaserJet 3800 series specifications and exact 3800dtn mapping ↗ — checked October 16, 2026.
- HP U.S. 3800 series specifications: exact model, speed and recommended monthly range ↗ — checked October 16, 2026.
- HP U.S. exact 3800dtn product and part mapping Q5984A#ABA ↗ — checked October 16, 2026.
- HP Color LaserJet 3800 series guide: dtn duplex, trays, Ethernet and wireless option ↗ — checked October 16, 2026.
The decision
The 3800dtn's three trays, wired network, duplex and moderate recommended range make it a capable workgroup printer on paper. Verify the exact Q5984A#ABA configuration and current ownership support before relying on an older unit.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.