Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

HP
Color LaserJet Pro M254dw Color Laser Printer

Compact color printer with automatic duplex. 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 U.S. page identifies the Color LaserJet Pro M254dw as a discontinued print-only color laser printer. It is rated up to 22 ppm in black and color, adds automatic duplex, and offers USB, Fast Ethernet, and dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi. Its 250-sheet main tray and one-sheet priority feed provide a modest paper path, while HP recommends 150–2,500 pages monthly. HP also warns that dynamic security can prevent some non-HP-chip cartridges from working.

Consider it for

A home office or small team that wants color output and automatic two-sided printing, can use wired or wireless networking, and accepts a discontinued model..

Look elsewhere if

Look elsewhere if you need copying, scanning, fax, a current-generation model, or freedom from HP's stated cartridge-chip compatibility restrictions.

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Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Automatic duplex is documented for two-sided print jobs.
  • Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB support different desk and shared-office setups.
  • HP supplies a recommended monthly range instead of only a maximum duty-cycle figure.

What to weigh up

  • The M254dw is print-only and cannot replace an all-in-one.
  • HP marks the model discontinued, so future support and supply choices need checking.
  • Dynamic security can affect whether third-party cartridges with non-HP chips work.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredM254dw
Main functionsPrint only
Print outputColor laser; up to 22 ppm black and color
Two-sided printingAutomatic duplex; 250-sheet tray plus priority feed

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 13, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

Full review: how the features affect your choice

What the features mean for you

Is it built for color documents or a full office workflow?

HP describes the M254dw as a color printer, not a multifunction device. It can handle color reports, charts, and marked-up documents, with a rated speed up to 22 pages per minute for both black and color. The print-only design keeps the decision simple when a separate scanner or copier already exists. If your workflow relies on walk-up copying, scanning, or fax, the M254dw cannot replace those separate machines.

How much does automatic duplex change everyday use?

HP lists automatic print duplex, so two-sided jobs do not require manually turning each page between passes. That can reduce paper handling for routine reports and longer documents. The main tray holds 250 sheets and a priority feed handles one additional sheet; this is a more limited supply than a larger office printer with multiple standard trays. Match the feeder capacity to how often you print, rather than treating the advertised maximum duty cycle as normal workload.

Can it join a shared network?

The reviewed HP specifications list dual-band 802.11n wireless, Fast Ethernet, and USB. That gives a buyer a choice between a cable to one computer, a wired office network, or built-in Wi-Fi. Check which connection will remain supported by the computers and router you plan to use. HP's page confirms the model's original capabilities but does not say that a used unit's wireless radio, Ethernet port, or supplied cables are currently working.

Does its monthly recommendation fit your routine?

HP recommends 150–2,500 pages per month for this model. Treat that as the maker's planning range and compare it with your expected routine, not with a burst month or the maximum duty-cycle ceiling. A small team near the upper end may value its duplex and network options, while a larger shared queue should compare models with higher documented recommendations. The range is guidance from HP; it is not a measured guarantee of speed for every job.

What should you know about supplies?

HP's product information says dynamic security may block cartridges that use non-HP chips. This is a practical compatibility condition, not a claim about the price or availability of toner today. Before choosing a used or remaining-stock unit, check the cartridge policy you are willing to follow, ask which cartridge is installed, and confirm that your intended supplies are accepted. The reviewed sources do not justify a current cost-per-page comparison. Because this is a color model, weigh that cartridge policy against your color-printing needs; supply compatibility does not change the confirmed color-output feature.

How does discontinued status affect the choice?

HP marks the M254dw discontinued. That makes it important to weigh the documented feature set against the uncertainty of buying an older model: inspect sample pages, confirm duplex and connection functions, and ask about return terms and included supplies. The manufacturer sources establish the original product design, not the condition or current offer status of any individual listing. A buyer who needs predictable current support may prefer a newer model; a buyer with known setup and supply needs can assess this one directly.

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Before you buy

Does the M254dw scan or copy?

No. HP lists the M254dw as a print-only model, so separate equipment is needed for scanning or copying.

Can it print on both sides automatically?

Yes. HP's exact-model specifications list automatic duplex printing for the M254dw.

What monthly volume does HP recommend?

HP lists a recommended range of 150 to 2,500 pages per month 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 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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