Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

HP
Color LaserJet Pro M454dn Color Laser Printer

Wired color print-only model 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 Color LaserJet Pro M454dn is the wired, print-only member of the M454 family. HP's exact model table identifies W1Y44A and lists color output, automatic duplex, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, a 50-sheet tray, and a 250-sheet tray. The series reaches up to 28 pages per minute on Letter paper. Wireless print server and Wi-Fi Direct are not listed for the dn model, though nearby nw and dw models have different connection features. It suits an office that wants color and duplex over Ethernet without copier or scanner functions.

Consider it for

A wired small-office color queue that prints two-sided documents and does not need a copier, scanner, or fax..

Look elsewhere if

Choose another model if your desk depends on Wi-Fi, copy or scan functions, fax, or a clearly published monthly recommendation for workload planning.

Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • HP documents automatic duplex for the exact M454dn configuration.
  • Gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0 provide wired network and direct-host options.
  • The 50-sheet and 250-sheet trays and 28 ppm Letter rating help set expectations for office use.

What to weigh up

  • The M454dn is a print-only device and does not replace a copier or scanner.
  • HP lists wireless print server and Wi-Fi Direct for other M454 variants, not for this dn model.
  • The source reviewed here does not establish a recommended monthly page range.

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredM454dn (W1Y44A)
Main functionsColor laser printing only
Print outputUp to 28 ppm Letter; automatic duplex
Two-sided printingGigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0; no dn wireless option listed

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 5, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

What the features mean for you

Color printing with a clearly defined suffix

HP identifies M454dn as the W1Y44A configuration in a product family that also includes nw and dw versions. The dn is a color printer rather than an all-in-one: scanning, copying, and fax are not part of the listed function set. This distinction keeps a selection centered on print output and connection needs. A seller may group family models together, so check the exact suffix and product number before relying on duplex or networking. Do not transfer features from the M454dw or M454nw to the dn merely because the case shares a family name.

Automatic duplex for regular two-sided jobs

HP's paper-handling table marks automatic duplex as available on the M454dn, unlike the M454nw configuration. That makes the dn more convenient for routine double-sided handouts or office reports without a manual paper-turn step. The product also includes a 50-sheet first tray and a 250-sheet second tray, with an optional 550-sheet accessory tray. Those figures describe specified capacity; whether an accessory is installed must be verified separately. Check the duplex path and tray hardware on an older unit because the current state of an individual device is not proved by its product page.

Ethernet but no listed wireless on the dn

HP lists a 10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN connection and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 for the M454dn. The same comparison table marks wireless print-server connectivity, BLE, and Wi-Fi Direct unavailable on the dn while showing such options for other family members. That is a useful example of why suffix-level matching matters. A networked office with Ethernet can share the printer over a wired connection; a wireless-only room should compare a different exact variant. Confirm network policy, host drivers, and the label on the machine before selecting an offer.

Rated speed and paper planning

HP rates this series at up to 28 pages per minute on Letter paper and 27 on A4. The sheet also gives the standard trays and optional extra tray, helping a buyer estimate refill frequency without treating maximum capacity as guaranteed in a seller's configuration. The rated speed is not a promise for every page or for a used printer. A recommended monthly range was not confirmed in the exact source reviewed, so a manager planning a large shared queue should seek additional manufacturer guidance rather than infer an average from the printer's maximum duty-cycle figure.

Color engine, media, and current-unit checks

The M454dn fits a color document queue where automatic two-sided output and wired sharing are valued. Before buying, inspect the exact W1Y44A suffix, all four cartridges, tray and duplex hardware, Ethernet interface, page count, maintenance history, and return terms. HP's specification describes the designed model but does not verify current toner levels, seller condition, or the print quality of an individual machine. Confirm supported media and operating-system drivers from current documentation for the intended computers. This review relies on official specifications and does not claim that any unit has been physically tested.

Who should shortlist the M454dn

Consider the M454dn when a small team needs color printing and automatic duplex through a wired Ethernet queue. It is less suitable for users who expect one machine to scan or copy, or who need built-in wireless at the selected desk. The M454 family makes variant mistakes especially easy because different suffixes have different network options. Compare this dn only after confirming the label and the need for color, then weigh the cost and condition of a current offer through separate evidence. A different printer may be simpler if color is merely a preference rather than a requirement.

What else to compare

The HP Color LaserJet CP1215 offers simpler USB color printing with manual duplex; the Lexmark CS517de adds a documented workgroup range and Ethernet but remains print-only.

Explore this category →

Before you buy

Does the M454dn print in color?

Yes. HP identifies the M454dn as a color laser printer.

Does this version print both sides automatically?

Yes. HP's model-specific table lists automatic duplex for the M454dn.

Is Wi-Fi included in the dn version?

HP lists Ethernet and USB for the M454dn but does not list wireless print server or Wi-Fi Direct for this suffix.

Can it copy or scan?

No. HP identifies the M454dn as a printer; it is not an MFP with copy or scan functions.

What is the recommended monthly range?

The exact specification page reviewed here does not establish a recommended monthly page 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.

Read our research and update process →

The decision

Choose the M454dn for wired color output and automatic duplex. Check the W1Y44A suffix, installed trays, toner, drivers, and unit condition.

Is it the right fit?

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

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.