Our take
The HP LaserJet Enterprise 500 color M551dn is a wired color printer with a defined workload recommendation. HP lists up to 32 pages per minute on A4 in both black and color, a 1,500–5,000 page recommended monthly range and built-in Gigabit Ethernet. It is print-only and wireless capability requires an accessory. The saved source packet does not establish automatic duplex for this exact M551dn, so that attribute should remain unknown until confirmed. This makes the model useful for workload comparison but a poor choice when automatic two-sided output is a non-negotiable requirement without more evidence.
A wired office that needs color output and a documented 1,500–5,000 page monthly recommendation, after confirming duplex requirements..
Avoid it if built-in Wi-Fi, confirmed automatic duplex, copy or scan capability, or a lighter personal-duty device is needed.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The 1,500–5,000 recommended monthly range helps size a color workgroup queue.
- HP documents built-in Gigabit Ethernet for a wired shared printer.
- The A4 rating reaches 32 ppm in both black and color.
What to weigh up
- The saved exact-model packet does not confirm automatic duplex printing.
- Wireless requires a hardware accessory rather than being built in.
- It is print-only and does not capture paper originals or send fax.
The key details
| Model covered | LaserJet Enterprise 500 color M551dn |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Color print-only laser printer |
| Print output | Up to 32 ppm A4; 1,500–5,000 recommended pages monthly |
| Two-sided printing | Gigabit Ethernet; duplex configuration requires verification |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 9, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
A color output device with a defined workload band
HP recommends 1,500 to 5,000 pages monthly for the M551dn. That makes the printer easier to compare against color models with no stated recommendation, as long as the team's planned work fits the range. The separate 75,000-page duty-cycle figure is a maximum for robustness comparison, not a routine target. Choose around the actual monthly queue and its color share; the 32 ppm A4 rating helps describe the class but does not guarantee speed for every page or specific used machine.
Black and color ratings share an A4 basis
HP lists output up to 32 pages per minute in black and in color on A4. Keeping the paper size with the number matters when comparing it with Letter-based ratings from other products. A fast engine can shorten waits for standard pages, but graphics, duplex jobs, connectivity and document complexity affect observed output. The cited figure is a manufacturer rating, not a personal test. For a U.S. office that mostly prints Letter, confirm the model's Letter specification before making a close speed comparison.
Use the wired network path as the baseline
HP documents built-in Gigabit Ethernet and lists wireless connectivity as optional. The standard connection is suited to an office with a network drop and a fixed printer location. If wireless placement is important, identify the accessory by part number and confirm it is present and compatible; do not treat mobile-print services or the dn suffix as proof of built-in Wi-Fi. The printer also has USB for local connection. Verify the actual unit's ports and driver compatibility before planning a department deployment.
Print-only means other paper work needs another station
The M551dn is a printer, not a copy, scan or fax MFP. A team that marks up paper originals or receives signed forms will need separate equipment for those jobs. This distinction can be helpful when the office already has a shared scanner and wants color output only; it prevents paying attention to features that would sit idle. If a single-device workflow matters, compare color MFPs by their fax, duplex scan and feeder capabilities rather than choosing the M551dn for speed alone.
Resolve duplex before making a final shortlist
The source packet used for this exact M551dn confirms output, recommended volume and Ethernet, but does not settle automatic print duplex. The precise duplex path is important for repeat two-sided jobs. Leave the finder value unknown and verify the exact product number or manual instead of inferring from the suffix. A Lexmark C734dw has documented automatic duplex, built-in Wi-Fi and a 1,500–9,200 page recommendation; it is a useful alternative when those features matter more than the M551dn's color enterprise role. Ask about supplies, page count, maintenance and return terms on any offer.
What else to compare
The Lexmark C734dw has documented built-in Wi-Fi and automatic duplex plus a 1,500–9,200 page recommendation. The Ricoh SP C340DN is a print-only color alternative with standard duplex and Ethernet, but wireless is optional.
Before you buy
Does the M551dn include a color engine?
Yes. HP identifies the exact model as a color printer and lists black and color output speeds.
What monthly range does HP recommend?
HP recommends 1,500 to 5,000 pages monthly for the M551dn; the higher duty-cycle figure is a maximum ceiling.
Does it include built-in Wi-Fi and automatic duplex?
Wireless is listed as optional. The saved exact-model packet does not confirm automatic duplex, so verify that capability before purchase.
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 LaserJet Enterprise 500 color M551dn product specifications ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
- HP M551dn specifications: color output, speed, recommended volume and built-in Ethernet ↗ — checked October 9, 2026.
The decision
Choose the M551dn for its color output, wired Ethernet and 1,500–5,000 page recommendation. Confirm duplex and any wireless accessory on the exact unit before treating it as a fit.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.