Our take
HP's U.S. store identifies the Color LaserJet 5500dtn as product C9658A and marks it discontinued. HP's 5500-series guide distinguishes this exact dtn configuration from the nearby 5500dn: the dtn adds a 500-sheet feeder, stand, and 160 MB of memory, while both include automatic duplex and Jetdirect networking. The guide lists output up to 22 pages per minute on A4 and support for paper as large as 297 by 432 mm. This is a substantial color workgroup device, not a compact desk printer.
A large-format color workgroup printer when automatic duplex, wired sharing, and a second 500-sheet feeder are useful and the physical setup is suitable..
Choose another model if you need built-in Wi-Fi, current-generation software simplicity, copy or scan functions, or a published recommended monthly volume range.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The exact dtn configuration includes automatic duplex and HP Jetdirect networking.
- A standard extra 500-sheet feeder expands input beyond the base 5500 configuration.
- The 5500 series supports wide media up to 297 by 432 mm, including formats larger than Letter.
What to weigh up
- HP marks the exact model discontinued, so offer condition and maintenance history must be checked separately.
- Its stand and extra tray make the printer a large installation with more space and handling needs than a desktop model.
- The reviewed guide gives no recommended monthly page range, and Wi-Fi is not listed as a standard interface.
The key details
| Model covered | 5500dtn (C9658A) |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Color print-only |
| Print output | Up to 22 ppm A4; media up to 297 × 432 mm |
| Two-sided printing | Automatic duplex; wired Jetdirect networking |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 10, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Wide color pages from a print-only machine
The HP 5500dtn prints color and monochrome documents but does not add copy or scan functions. The series guide lists up to 22 pages per minute for A4 and media up to 297 by 432 mm, making larger posters, covers, and presentation sheets part of its documented range. These are manufacturer ratings, not a promise for every job. A small office needing only Letter pages may not benefit from the large-format capability, while a separate scanner or MFP is still necessary for document capture.
The dtn package includes automatic duplex
HP documents automatic two-sided printing for the 5500dtn. This is a material difference from a base 5500 configuration, where a duplex unit is not listed as standard. The internal duplex path can reduce manual page handling for longer reports, although specialty media still needs to comply with the guide's supported media requirements. The dtn also includes a standard extra 500-sheet feeder. Buyers comparing used units should confirm the tray and duplex path are physically present, since the model identity alone does not prove that an individual unit still has every original component.
Wired networking is part of the model configuration
HP's configuration guide says the dtn includes an HP Jetdirect 615N network card. That supports a wired network workflow; the reviewed sources do not list standard built-in Wi-Fi for this configuration. The guide also shows a parallel interface on the base platform. Check the actual port and network card before planning a modern deployment, especially if the printer will connect through a managed switch or print server. A wireless requirement should be treated separately rather than inferred from optional accessories that may or may not accompany a used unit.
Plan for the stand and additional paper feed
The dtn's extra feeder holds 500 sheets and comes with a stand; the series guide also identifies a 500-sheet standard tray and a separate multipurpose feed. The added capacity can help a shared workgroup run different page sizes or refill less often. It also means the printer needs a suitable floor footprint and access to its trays. This distinction matters when comparing the dtn with the 5500dn, whose documented standard configuration has duplex and networking but does not add the same extra feeder and stand.
A discontinued model needs an offer-specific review
HP marks the 5500dtn discontinued, but that status does not establish the condition, current support, or availability of any particular listing. The checked user guide describes the hardware and media configuration, not a recommended monthly workload range; the finder therefore leaves both recommended-volume values unknown. Before choosing a unit, confirm the C9658A identity, inspect print quality and duplex operation, check the Jetdirect card and trays, and verify that the intended computer environment can use the available driver. No maximum duty figure should be treated as a routine monthly recommendation.
What else to compare
Choose the 5500dn if the added feeder and stand are unnecessary, or a newer color printer if a smaller setup and current connectivity are priorities.
Before you buy
What does the 5500dtn add over the 5500dn?
HP's guide lists an extra 500-sheet feeder, stand, and 160 MB of memory for the exact dtn configuration.
Does the 5500dtn include automatic duplex and networking?
Yes. The HP guide documents automatic duplex and a standard Jetdirect network card for the 5500dtn.
What monthly page range does HP recommend?
The reviewed 5500-series guide does not state a recommended monthly page-volume range for this model.
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.
- HP U.S. Color LaserJet 5500dtn exact-model page and configuration guide ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
- HP U.S. 5500dtn product page: C9658A identity and discontinued status ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
- HP-hosted Color LaserJet 5500 series User Guide: dtn configuration, speed, duplex and media ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
- HP model-number list distinguishing the Color LaserJet 5500dtn configuration ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
The decision
The 5500dtn is distinguished by wide-format color, automatic duplex, wired networking, and an extra feeder, with discontinued status and a large footprint to weigh.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.