Our take
Lexmark maps product part 42C0060 to the CS521dn color laser printer. The U.S. product page rates both black and color output up to 35 pages per minute, lists integrated duplex, standard Gigabit Ethernet and USB, and recommends 1,500–8,500 pages per month. That combination suits a wired small-to-medium workgroup with recurring color documents and two-sided output. The CS521dn is single-function: it does not copy, scan, or fax. Wi-Fi is not listed as a standard interface in the reviewed configuration, so a wireless office should verify a supported option or consider a model with built-in wireless.
A wired small-to-medium workgroup that needs color documents and automatic duplex but already has separate scan and copy equipment..
It is not for color MFP tasks, a required fax line, or a wireless-first setup that cannot rely on a verified optional connection.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Lexmark maps exact part 42C0060 to the CS521dn model.
- Integrated duplex and standard Gigabit Ethernet support shared two-sided office printing.
- The 1,500–8,500 recommended monthly band helps size a moderate workgroup queue.
What to weigh up
- It is print-only and does not replace copy, scan, or fax equipment.
- The standard interface list does not establish built-in Wi-Fi.
- The 35 ppm rating is a maximum manufacturer figure, not an observed used-device result.
The key details
| Model covered | CS521dn (42C0060) |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Color laser; print only |
| Print output | Up to 35 ppm black and color; 1,500–8,500 recommended pages per month |
| Two-sided printing | Integrated duplex; Gigabit Ethernet and USB |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 10, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Keep the part number with the color model
Lexmark's U.S. page identifies the CS521dn and part 42C0060. That exact mapping is a stronger identity basis than a title that merely says color Lexmark printer. The model is a single-function color laser printer, so a buyer should not mistake the CS name for a scanner or copier. A matching label can confirm the intended configuration, but it cannot establish the present condition of the device. On a used listing, check the part, tray arrangement, and exact interface panel before relying on the product page's standard specifications.
Use the duplex engine for recurring output
Lexmark lists integrated duplex. It turns sheets automatically for two-sided jobs, avoiding the manual reload step on reports, training packets, and internal documents. This is a print feature rather than a document-feeder feature; the CS521dn does not scan originals. If the office prints two-sided material every week, integrated duplex changes the operator's routine. A buyer should still confirm that the mechanism works on a refurbished unit. If pages are normally short or one-sided, a simpler model may cover the work with less hardware.
Choose it for a wired network
Lexmark lists Gigabit Ethernet and USB among the standard ports. Ethernet supports a shared office queue, and USB offers direct attachment. Wi-Fi does not appear in the standard port list, so do not count on wireless networking without further exact-product evidence. A wired connection is often suitable in a fixed work area, but the organization should check print protocols, network security, and its current device-management policy. The interfaces describe the model's original configuration; they do not guarantee the condition or compatibility of every unit sold as used.
Size the queue from the recommended range
Lexmark recommends 1,500–8,500 pages per month for the CS521dn. This band can help a small or medium team compare it with personal printers and heavier enterprise devices. It is a normal-use recommendation, not the maximum duty-cycle figure. A buyer should compare actual monthly printing with the interval and avoid assigning the device to a much heavier queue solely because its rated speed is 35 ppm. The range is one of the product's clearest planning details because it connects the specification to the office's routine output.
Separate color printing from document capture
The CS521dn handles color and black printing but does not add copy, scan, or fax functions. This keeps its role clear in an office with a separate copier or scanner. The Xerox VersaLink C505/X is a broader color MFP with fax and a duplex ADF, while the Lexmark has a documented 1,500–8,500 monthly recommendation. The better choice depends on whether a team values simpler print-only hardware or a single machine for incoming and outgoing paper. Verify supplies, service history, and the specific offer's condition separately.
What else to compare
The Xerox VersaLink C505/X adds color copy, scan, fax, and a duplex ADF for a broader wired office workflow, but Xerox gives no recommended monthly range in the reviewed brochure. Choose the CS521dn for print-only work with a documented workload band.
Before you buy
Does the CS521dn automatically print both sides?
Yes. Lexmark lists an integrated duplex unit for the exact CS521dn configuration.
What network connections are standard?
Lexmark lists Gigabit Ethernet and USB; its standard ports do not include built-in Wi-Fi.
What monthly range does Lexmark recommend?
Lexmark recommends 1,500 to 8,500 pages per month for the CS521dn.
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.
- Lexmark U.S. CS521dn exact-part specifications ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
- Lexmark U.S. CS521dn part, speed, duplex, ports, and recommended monthly volume ↗ — checked October 10, 2026.
The decision
Choose the CS521dn when a wired workgroup needs color printing, automatic duplex, and a stated monthly band. Choose an MFP if paper capture or fax is part of the routine.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.