Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Lexmark
CS421dn Color Laser Printer

Wired color printer 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

Lexmark identifies part 42C0030 as the discontinued CS421dn, a color laser printer rather than an MFP. Its U.S. materials list up to 25 pages per minute, automatic duplex, a 250-sheet input tray, 125-sheet output, Gigabit Ethernet and USB. Lexmark recommends 800 to 6,500 pages per month. Wi-Fi requires an optional adapter, so the standard configuration is a wired-network choice. Those attributes make the CS421dn easier to assess for a shared color print queue than models without workload guidance, but the listing's discontinued status and optional wireless matter for buyers who need a current support path or standard Wi-Fi.

Consider it for

A wired workgroup needing color print-only output, automatic duplex and documented monthly guidance, without requiring standard Wi-Fi or copier functions..

Look elsewhere if

Avoid it if you need copy, scan or fax functions, built-in Wi-Fi as standard, or a model with an active current production status.

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Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Automatic duplex supports two-sided print jobs without manual page turning.
  • Gigabit Ethernet and USB are documented, giving a shared wired queue and direct workstation options.
  • Lexmark's 800–6,500-page recommended range helps compare ordinary monthly work with the printer's intended use.

What to weigh up

  • The CS421dn is marked discontinued by Lexmark, which makes the condition and support status of a particular unit important to verify.
  • Wireless requires an optional adapter and is not a standard built-in connection in the documented configuration.
  • This is a print-only model, so copy, scan and fax needs require separate equipment.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredCS421dn / 42C0030
Main functionsColor laser print only
Print outputUp to 25 ppm; 250-sheet input and 125-sheet output
Two-sided printingAutomatic duplex, Gigabit Ethernet, and USB; optional wireless adapter

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 14, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

Full review: how the features affect your choice

What the features mean for you

Is the CS421dn a printer or an all-in-one?

Lexmark documents the CS421dn as a color laser printer with print output, not as a copier, scanner or fax MFP. That simpler design can fit an office that already has document capture equipment and wants a dedicated color queue. It will not consolidate those functions into the printer, so buyers should keep the workflow boundary in mind when comparing it with color multifunction models. The distinction affects floor space, device management and which shared tasks remain available at another workstation; it is not a judgment about print quality or current unit condition.

What does automatic duplex add?

Lexmark lists integrated automatic duplex for the exact CS421dn. For ordinary two-sided reports or handouts, the device turns pages as part of the print job instead of asking the user to reload sheets. Its 250-sheet input and 125-sheet output give the printer a defined paper path for everyday work, though the output tray is smaller than input capacity and may need attention during longer runs. Check the actual installed tray and paper handling before a purchase; these specifications describe the model, not the state of the individual offer.

How should you use the monthly recommendation?

Lexmark recommends 800 to 6,500 pages per month. Compare that range with the normal month expected from the users who will share the queue. The lower end can help distinguish it from personal printers, while the ceiling gives a documented reference for a workgroup. It is not an assurance that every peak workload will run without interruption, and the 25-ppm rating does not replace the monthly guidance. If expected volume is consistently below or above the range, compare models around that routine rather than stretching the product's role based on a maximum duty figure.

Does the standard connection suit the office?

The product page and specification list Gigabit Ethernet and USB. Ethernet supports a wired shared printer setup, while USB is available for a direct workstation connection. Wi-Fi requires an optional adapter, so do not treat the model name's dn suffix as evidence of wireless capability. Buyers who need wireless should verify the exact adapter, its compatibility and whether it is included; those details are not guaranteed by a model-only search link. For a wired office, the listed Ethernet connection is a more straightforward fit than an optional wireless path.

What is the practical trade-off of discontinued status?

Lexmark marks the CS421dn discontinued. That status does not establish that a particular machine is unusable, but it does mean a prospective buyer should verify the seller's exact configuration, operating condition, supplies, included options and available support before relying on it for a shared queue. Lexmark's documented features remain useful for matching needs: color output, duplex, Ethernet, USB and a defined monthly recommendation. Current stock, toner state, repair history, seller terms and future parts availability are not established by the original specification.

Who should shortlist the CS421dn?

It fits a wired office that needs color print-only work, automatic duplex and a published 800–6,500-page recommendation, and already has copy or scan needs covered elsewhere. Its standard Gigabit Ethernet is relevant when the printer serves multiple users; USB handles direct setup. Choose another model if standard Wi-Fi, multifunction features or current production status are necessary. The manufacturer's product page and specification sheet describe the original design, not the condition of a used unit. Check the exact 42C0030 configuration and whether any optional wireless hardware is present before making a decision.

Compare for your needs

Choose a color MFP if copy or scan functions belong at the same device, or a model with standard Wi-Fi if wireless is required.

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Before you buy

Does the CS421dn print on both sides automatically?

Yes. Lexmark lists integrated automatic duplex printing for the exact CS421dn model.

Is Wi-Fi built in as standard?

No. Lexmark identifies an optional wireless adapter; the documented standard network connection is Gigabit Ethernet.

What monthly range does Lexmark recommend?

Lexmark recommends 800 to 6,500 pages per month for the CS421dn; this is routine guidance, not a maximum duty-cycle claim.

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 and review basis

Sources & review basis

We use the linked product documentation for the features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.

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The decision

The CS421dn is a wired color print-only choice with duplex and clear workload guidance, balanced against discontinued status and optional wireless.

Is it the right fit?

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

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