Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Lexmark
C3224dw Color Laser Printer

Compact wireless 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

The Lexmark C3224dw is a compact color laser printer for output-only workflows. Lexmark rates black and color printing up to 24 pages per minute on Letter and documents automatic duplex, a 250-sheet tray, a single-sheet manual feed, Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, and 10/100 Ethernet. Its recommended monthly volume is 250 to 1,500 pages, separate from the 30,000-page maximum monthly duty cycle. Lexmark marks the model discontinued. It does not copy, scan, or fax. The packet does not prove the historical Amazon ASIN or the service, toner, and drum condition of a renewed unit, so those details remain purchase checks.

Consider it for

A small office needing wireless color output and duplex printing without copy, scan, or fax hardware..

Look elsewhere if

Skip it if you need copy, scan, fax, a higher documented monthly recommendation, or a current product line.

Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Automatic duplex and built-in Wi-Fi are documented for the exact C3224dw.
  • The 250-sheet tray and 24 ppm rating cover regular small-office output.
  • Lexmark publishes a 250 to 1,500 page recommended monthly range.

What to weigh up

  • The C3224dw is print-only and cannot replace an all-in-one device.
  • Lexmark marks the model discontinued, so supplies and support need checking.
  • Historical ASIN identity and the condition of a renewed unit are not established.

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredC3224dw
Main functionsPrint only
Print outputColor laser; up to 24 ppm Letter in black and color
Two-sided printingAutomatic duplex; 250-sheet tray plus single-sheet manual feed

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 4, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

What the features mean for you

Color output without extra document functions

Lexmark describes the C3224dw as a color laser printer, not a multifunction device. It prints black and color pages at up to 24 pages per minute on Letter, with no copy, scan, or fax capability in this model. That can keep a small office's printer role straightforward when separate equipment handles document capture. A buyer who expects to make copies or scan paperwork should choose an MFP rather than treating the C3224dw's wireless connection as a substitute for those functions.

Automatic duplex is standard on the dw model

Lexmark lists integrated automatic duplex for the C3224dw. The printer can turn pages for routine two-sided documents, avoiding a manual reload between sides. The dw configuration also has wireless networking, but it is distinct from other C3224 models and should be checked by its exact suffix. Test automatic duplex on a renewed machine before relying on it for regular packets. The feature record describes the model design, not the alignment, rollers, or service state of an individual device.

A single-sheet feed complements the main tray

Lexmark specifies a 250-sheet input tray and a one-sheet manual feed, plus a 100-sheet output bin. That arrangement offers modest standard capacity and a path for occasional specialty media. Do not count the manual feed as a second large tray. The published recommended volume is 250 to 1,500 pages per month, so the product is better evaluated against a light or moderate routine than a busy departmental queue. The upper duty-cycle ceiling is not a replacement for this recommendation.

Wireless and wired connections are both available

The exact C3224dw specification lists 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, and 10/100 Ethernet. That gives a buyer several placement options, including a wireless home office or a cable to a network switch. The connection itself does not confirm current driver support, signal quality, or compatibility with office security rules. Check the printer's actual ports and network setup, especially on a used device. Do not assume that a generic C3224 listing has the same connections as this dw variant.

Use the published workload interval conservatively

Lexmark recommends 250 to 1,500 pages per month and lists a separate maximum duty cycle of 30,000 pages. A maximum describes a limit, not the routine volume Lexmark recommends. The range is helpful for screening a small printer, but it does not calculate color coverage, toner expenditure, or service life. If a team regularly prints above that range, compare a model with a higher recommendation. Current consumable prices and availability are not established in the saved packet and should not be inferred from the historical product record.

Discontinued status raises lifecycle questions

Lexmark marks the C3224dw discontinued, so a present-day purchase is likely to involve remaining stock or a used or renewed unit. The saved evidence does not establish the historical ASIN-to-model association or what a seller includes. Check the model label, test both color and duplex paths, ask about toner and drum state, and confirm return terms. A product specification cannot reveal a refurbished device's print count, maintenance history, or present availability of supplies and service.

What else to compare

Compare the HP M255dw for another print-only color option, or the M277dw and M479fdw when copy, scan, or fax functions are required.

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Before you buy

Does the C3224dw include automatic duplex?

Yes. Lexmark's exact-model specifications list integrated automatic two-sided printing.

Can it copy or scan documents?

No. Lexmark identifies the C3224dw as a print-only color laser printer.

What monthly workload does Lexmark recommend?

Lexmark recommends 250 to 1,500 pages per month; the separate duty-cycle ceiling is not routine guidance.

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 C3224dw fits a small color print-only workflow when its modest recommended range, wireless duplex features, and discontinued lifecycle are acceptable.

Is it the right fit?

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

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.