Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

HP
Color LaserJet Enterprise M651dn Color Printer

Fast wired color output for a substantial monthly queue. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

HP's M651 series table maps product number CZ256A to the exact M651dn, distinct from the M651n and M651xh configurations. HP documents color laser printing up to 45 pages per minute, automatic duplex, Gigabit Ethernet, a 100-sheet multipurpose tray and a 500-sheet main tray. Its recommended monthly range is 2,000 to 17,000 pages. The available source packet does not establish built-in wireless, so this review does not claim it. Buyers should assess the exact suffix and condition of any legacy unit before comparing its office capacity with a current printer.

Consider it for

A wired workgroup that prints color at a sustained office pace and can inspect an older enterprise printer before purchase..

Look elsewhere if

Skip this model if you need copy, scan or fax functions, a compact personal device, or a current unit whose service and parts status is already established.

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Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • HP maps CZ256A to M651dn and rates the exact model up to 45 ppm in color.
  • Automatic duplex and 600 sheets of standard input reduce manual handling on recurring jobs.
  • The 2,000–17,000 page recommended range supports an office workload comparison.

What to weigh up

  • It is print-only and cannot replace a copier, scanner or fax device.
  • The exact source packet does not establish built-in wireless networking.
  • A historical model specification cannot confirm the condition or service history of a used unit.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredM651dn
Main functionsColor print only
Print outputColor laser; rated up to 45 ppm
Two-sided printingAutomatic duplex; 100-sheet multipurpose tray plus 500-sheet tray

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

The dn suffix identifies a specific enterprise configuration

HP's U.S. series table maps the CZ256A product number to M651dn and separates it from the M651n and M651xh. That distinction matters when a listing uses a broad M651 family title: tray and duplex details should follow the exact dn version rather than another suffix. The M651dn is a dedicated color printer, so teams that need only printing can use its role directly. If a group expects scanning or fax, those needs require separate hardware because this model does not provide those functions ([HP M651 series specifications](https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c04249166)).

Rated speed is suited to a busy queue

HP rates the M651dn up to 45 pages per minute and gives a 2,000 to 17,000 page recommended monthly range. Those facts place it in a substantially different work profile from a small desk printer with a few hundred pages of routine use. A shared office can compare its expected color and black print volume with the recommendation rather than treating the maximum duty figure as a target. Rated speed remains a manufacturer figure; mixed graphics, media and individual machine condition can change real job timing ([HP M651dn specifications](https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/product-specs/hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m651-series/model/5391214)).

Automatic duplex is built into the documented configuration

HP lists automatic two-sided printing for the M651dn. For recurring reports, forms or internal packets, an automatic path avoids the operator having to turn a stack and reload it for the second pass. This is a print-side feature and does not establish duplex scanning or any copy function. The value of the duplexer depends on the media and job size; offices that use specialty stock should confirm the supported paper settings in HP's guide before planning all work around two-sided output.

The standard trays support longer runs between refills

HP documents a 100-sheet multipurpose tray alongside a 500-sheet main tray. Together they provide 600 sheets of standard input and can keep the main office stock separate from a smaller alternate feed. That capacity is useful when several people share a queue, but it is not proof that optional trays are included in a marketplace offer. Confirm the base M651dn and any extra feeder by part number on the actual machine. A used printer's pickup rollers and tray condition also cannot be judged from the original capacity table.

Plan the network around the documented wired connection

HP documents Gigabit Ethernet for the M651dn. That can work for a fixed office installation with a network drop and a managed print queue. The source packet used for this exact model does not establish built-in wireless, so a buyer who requires Wi-Fi should not infer it from another M651 suffix or a generic family listing. Check the M651dn nameplate and the installed network interface on the unit being offered, especially if the seller describes several configuration codes in one listing.

A legacy enterprise unit needs a unit-level inspection

HP's specifications describe the design, not the remaining life of an individual used printer. Before choosing an M651dn, confirm the exact product number, power configuration, installed trays and duplex path, then ask about page count, maintenance parts, supplies and return conditions. The exact-model Amazon search link is not proof of a particular seller or current offer. This extra checking matters because a fast office specification has little practical value if a used unit is incomplete or does not fit the office's network and maintenance plan.

Compare for your needs

For an all-in-one compare the HP M476dn or Canon MF8050Cn; for a lighter color print queue compare the wireless Canon LBP654Cdw.

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Before you buy

Does the M651dn print automatically on both sides?

Yes. HP lists automatic duplex printing for the exact M651dn configuration.

How much paper is in the standard input?

HP lists a 100-sheet multipurpose tray and a 500-sheet main tray, for 600 sheets total.

Can this printer scan or fax?

No. The M651dn is a color print-only model; the reviewed HP source does not assign it copy, scan or fax functions.

What monthly volume does HP recommend?

HP's M651dn specifications give a recommended monthly range of 2,000 to 17,000 pages.

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.

Read our research and update process →

The decision

The M651dn is a wired enterprise color printer for a substantial recurring queue, provided its exact legacy configuration and condition check out.

Is it the right fit?

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

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.