Our take
HP's LaserJet 2100m is a legacy monochrome printer for a narrow setup that needs its documented parallel or LocalTalk interfaces and can manage older drivers. HP identifies part C4171A#ABA as the 2100m and lists 10 pages per minute with 1200 dpi output. The manual describes manual duplexing; the networked Ethernet-equipped model is the distinct 2100TN, not this 2100m configuration.
A legacy Macintosh or parallel-port setup that can verify drivers, cables and the condition of an individual unit..
It is a poor fit for buyers who need built-in Ethernet, Wi-Fi, automatic duplex, a current support guarantee, or a known recommended monthly page range.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- HP specifies 1200 x 1200 dpi text and graphics output for the 2100-series printer.
- The 2100m includes PostScript Level 2 emulation and 35 built-in PostScript fonts.
- The guide explains manual duplexing, giving a paper-saving option without claiming automatic page turning.
What to weigh up
- The exact 2100m has parallel and LocalTalk ports; HP assigns the built-in JetDirect Ethernet server to 2100TN.
- The printer's 10 ppm rating is modest beside newer office models and is not a measured test here.
- A historical driver and interface design makes present-day computer compatibility something to verify before purchase.
The key details
| Model covered | 2100m |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Monochrome print-only laser printer |
| Print output | 10 ppm; 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Two-sided printing | Parallel and LocalTalk; manual two-sided printing |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 6, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
The M suffix identifies a specific legacy configuration
HP's U.S. product page identifies C4171A#ABA as LaserJet 2100m, and the series manual explicitly distinguishes 2100, 2100 M and 2100 TN. The M model includes PostScript Level 2 emulation and 35 built-in PostScript fonts, which can matter in a Macintosh or graphics workflow built around older software. This product is not interchangeable with every 2100-series title. Check the complete model and part label before treating accessories or ports from another suffix as standard.
Documented output is straightforward and monochrome
HP lists 10 pages per minute and true 1200 by 1200 dpi text and graphics output for the 2100 series. That describes a black-only office printer rather than a multifunction or color device. The source figure is a manufacturer rating, not a speed measured in our testing, and the experience of a particular old unit can depend on its condition and computer connection. It is best judged as a legacy text printer for a compatible setup, not as a contemporary high-volume recommendation.
Manual duplex is available, automatic duplex is not established
HP's guide has a dedicated procedure for long-edge and short-edge manual duplexing. The operator prints one side, reloads the stack and then prints the other side; it is not the automatic page-turning convenience of a duplex-equipped office model. The exact product packet does not establish an included automatic duplexer. Buyers should choose it only if one-sided output or hands-on paper turning is acceptable, and should test the manual path with the paper they expect to use.
Ports separate this model from the networked TN
HP specifies IEEE-1284 parallel and LocalTalk ports on the 2100 and 2100m. The 2100TN is the variant that includes a JetDirect 600N server with a 10Base-T RJ-45 connection. Infrared printing is described in the series guide, but infrared is not built-in Wi-Fi networking. This distinction changes whether the printer can join a current wired office network without separate equipment, so a buyer should not infer Ethernet from a 2100-family title alone.
Compatibility and workload need an individual check
HP's manual identifies the exact product and its supported interfaces but does not give a recommended monthly print range for the 2100m. The matching profile therefore leaves monthly workload unknown. This older unit also depends on a driver and connection path compatible with the intended computer. Before relying on it, confirm whether the host supports the available interface, inspect the installed cards and cables, and verify a test page and manual duplex job. The model search is not a claim that a current sale or working device is available.
What else to compare
A newer mono printer with a documented current USB or Ethernet driver is safer when compatibility matters more than maintaining a legacy LocalTalk or parallel setup.
Before you buy
Does the HP 2100m have Ethernet?
HP identifies parallel and LocalTalk on the 2100m; built-in JetDirect Ethernet is listed for 2100TN.
Does it support automatic duplex?
The reviewed guide documents manual duplexing; an included automatic duplexer is not established.
What is the rated print speed?
HP lists 10 pages per minute for the LaserJet 2100 series; this is a maker rating, not a hands-on result.
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. LaserJet 2100m product page and HP 2100-series user guide ↗ — checked October 6, 2026.
- HP U.S. product identity and part number C4171A#ABA ↗ — checked October 6, 2026.
- HP 2100-series user guide: model distinctions, speed, ports, PostScript and manual duplex ↗ — checked October 6, 2026.
The decision
The 2100m offers a defined legacy PostScript configuration and manual duplex, but its interfaces and support needs sharply limit its audience.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.