Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Lexmark
B2546dw Monochrome Laser Printer

Fast mono workgroup printer with standard duplex, Wi-Fi and Ethernet. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

Lexmark identifies part 36SC371 as the B2546dw, a monochrome print-only printer with integrated duplex, standard Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet and USB. The page rates it up to 46 pages per minute on Letter and recommends 2,000 to 15,000 pages per month. The published maximum duty cycle is much higher, but it is not the routine workload recommendation. Standard input totals 350 sheets and optional trays can expand capacity. This model is a stronger fit for a shared mono queue than for an office seeking an all-in-one: its defining trade is a high published print rate and network flexibility without copy, scan or fax functions.

Consider it for

A shared monochrome print queue that needs a stated workgroup volume range, duplex output and a choice of network connections..

Look elsewhere if

Choose a mono MFP if users need copy, scan or fax, or a smaller printer if its stated 2,000-page recommended starting point exceeds the planned workload.

Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Lexmark links exact part 36SC371 to the B2546dw and documents integrated automatic duplex.
  • Standard ports include Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet and USB, giving an office several connection choices.
  • The 2,000–15,000 page recommended range supports a more specific workload comparison than a maximum duty-cycle number.

What to weigh up

  • The B2546dw is a printer only; copy, scan and fax are not part of its documented workflow.
  • The 46 ppm figure is a manufacturer rating, and actual output depends on job content, settings and paper handling.
  • Lexmark's connectivity section labels wireless as an option in one field while its standard-ports list and product description say standard Wi-Fi; verify the actual unit's radio.

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredB2546dw
Main functionsMonochrome laser print-only model; no copy, scan or fax
Print outputUp to 46 ppm Letter; integrated automatic duplex
Two-sided printingWi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet and USB; recommended 2,000–15,000 pages per month

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 8, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

What the features mean for you

A print-only choice for shared mono output

Lexmark classifies the B2546dw as a monochrome laser printer and does not list copying, scanning or fax. That keeps the workflow focused on output and avoids selecting a multifunction feature set that the office will not use. It also means a document station cannot replace its scanner or fax machine. The model is described for a medium workgroup and has a color LCD control panel, but those labels do not determine whether it fits every team. Start with whether the office needs only a shared print queue or wants one device to handle paper in both directions.

Duplex and rated speed for longer queues

Lexmark lists integrated duplex and a maximum Letter speed of 46 pages per minute. Automatic two-sided output can reduce page turning and paper use on handouts or reports, while the separate duplex speed is rated at up to 23 sides per minute. The maximum simplex figure does not establish how a complex job will perform in a real office. Consider the mix of one-sided and two-sided pages, and check whether the print queue and source documents are prepared for duplex. For frequent double-sided jobs, the integrated mechanism is a useful confirmed feature rather than a claim inferred from the model suffix.

Three documented connection paths

The product description says Wi-Fi is standard, and Lexmark's standard-ports list includes 802.11b/g/n wireless, Gigabit Ethernet and USB 2.0. This supports a wireless shared placement, a wired network connection or local USB, subject to the office's security and driver requirements. One connectivity subsection labels wireless as an option, which conflicts with the standard-port and product-feature text; verify the wireless radio on the exact unit rather than ignoring that discrepancy. Ethernet and USB are listed separately. A buyer who relies on Wi-Fi should confirm the actual rear ports and configuration before purchase.

Use the recommended range, not the maximum

Lexmark recommends 2,000 to 15,000 pages per month and lists a maximum duty cycle of up to 120,000 pages. The first range is the appropriate figure for routine-workload matching; the maximum describes a different comparison metric. The 350-sheet standard input combines a 250-sheet tray and a 100-sheet multipurpose feeder, while optional trays can expand input substantially. These facts may reduce refills in a busy office, but the optional capacity should not be treated as included equipment. Check which trays accompany a used unit and whether specialty paper will use the multipurpose feeder.

When another printer is the better fit

The B2546dw is suitable when the office needs black-only printing at a documented medium-workgroup scale, automatic duplex and both wired and wireless connectivity. A small personal user may not need its paper system or recommended-volume range. A fax or document-capture workflow points toward a mono MFP such as one of the fax models in this category. The available record describes product capability, not a current offer, measured print quality or supply cost. Verify the exact 36SC371 label, tray configuration, Wi-Fi hardware and return conditions before choosing a discontinued or used machine.

What else to compare

Compare a monochrome MFP when copy, scan or fax are needed, or a lower-volume printer for occasional personal output.

Explore this category →

Before you buy

Does the B2546dw include automatic duplex printing?

Yes. Lexmark lists integrated duplex as standard for the exact B2546dw configuration.

Can it connect over Ethernet and Wi-Fi?

Lexmark's standard-port list includes Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi, although one connectivity field calls wireless an option; confirm the unit.

What is Lexmark's recommended monthly range?

Lexmark recommends 2,000 to 15,000 pages per month; the much larger duty-cycle maximum is a separate measure.

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

The B2546dw suits a busy mono print queue with automatic duplex and network flexibility. Its print-only workflow, workload floor and wireless-field discrepancy should guide the final check.

Is it the right fit?

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

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