Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

Lexmark
MB2236adw Monochrome Laser Multifunction Printer

Mono fax MFP with automatic print duplex and simplex ADF. 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 the MB2236adw, part 18M0400, as a monochrome laser multifunction model with copy, color scan and fax. Its rated Letter speed is up to 36 pages per minute, and its recommended monthly range is 250–2,500 pages. The standard paper path combines a 250-sheet tray with a single-sheet manual feed. Automatic print duplex is documented, as are Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB. The 50-sheet ADF is simplex, so double-sided originals need another pass or hand turning. This configuration suits a compact office workflow where fax and network choice matter more than unattended two-sided scanning.

Consider it for

A home or small office needing monochrome documents, copy and scan, a standard fax line, automatic print duplex, and Wi-Fi or Ethernet, with manual handling for two-sided originals..

Look elsewhere if

Choose a different model if you need an ADF that scans both sides in one pass, a color printer, or a recommended workload above 2,500 pages per month.

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Pros & cons

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

What works in its favor

  • Lexmark documents copy, color scanning and standard fax alongside monochrome printing.
  • Automatic print duplex avoids hand turning sheets for ordinary double-sided output.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB give a small office several documented connection options.

What to weigh up

  • The 50-sheet ADF is simplex, so duplex originals require extra handling.
  • A single-sheet manual feed does not replace a second full-size input tray.
  • The recommended monthly range ends at 2,500 pages, which may not fit a busier shared queue.
Specifications and exact model details

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredMB2236adw / 18M0400
Main functionsMonochrome print, copy, color scan, and fax
Print output36 ppm Letter; 250-sheet tray plus one-sheet feed
Two-sided printingAutomatic duplex; 50-sheet simplex ADF

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

What work does this MFP combine?

Lexmark lists printing, copying, color scanning and fax for the exact MB2236adw. That combination lets one compact device handle everyday black-and-white documents and basic paper capture without a separate fax machine. The scanner can produce color scans even though the printer itself is monochrome. If the office later needs color hard copies, that is a different requirement: a scanner's color capability does not mean the print engine can reproduce color.

How does automatic duplex affect print jobs?

The specification lists automatic two-sided printing, so the printer turns supported sheets without asking the user to reload them between sides. That is useful for multipage handouts, internal reports and routine forms where reducing paper handling matters. It does not describe the ADF's scan path. Keep output duplex and document intake separate when comparing all-in-ones; a printer can duplex its own pages while feeding only one side of each original through its scanner.

What does the 50-sheet ADF do with originals?

Lexmark specifies a 50-sheet simplex ADF. It can move a stack through the scanner one side at a time, which is more convenient than lifting every page from a flatbed for single-sided forms. Duplex originals still need a second pass or manual turning, adding attention to contracts and two-sided packets. If automatic two-sided scanning is a frequent task, look for a model whose feeder is explicitly reversing or duplex rather than assuming a larger sheet count means two-sided capture.

Will its paper supply and pace fit the routine?

The documented 250-sheet cassette plus one-sheet manual feed gives ordinary paper a dedicated tray and leaves a path for an occasional supported sheet. Lexmark rates the model up to 36 ppm on Letter and recommends 250–2,500 pages monthly. These are manufacturer specifications, not measured results for a particular printer. The range helps separate light office use from a sustained high-volume department; the rated speed alone should not be treated as a workload recommendation or guarantee for complex jobs.

How can it join a desk or office network?

The U.S. product page lists Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB. That allows a buyer to plan around a wireless desk, a wired shared office, or a direct computer connection. The best option depends on where the device sits and which connection the organization supports. Confirm the specific network and software environment before relying on an older unit, since manufacturer specifications describe the original design and do not confirm the working state of a particular used radio, port or cable.

Where is the main trade-off?

This model prioritizes a broad office feature set in monochrome: fax, color scanning, automatic print duplex and three connection types. Its key compromise is that the document feeder handles only one side per pass, while the monthly recommendation remains at 2,500 pages or less. A small office that faxes and scans mostly single-sided originals may find that balance practical. A team processing duplex packets or maintaining a larger shared queue should compare feeder behavior and workload guidance before choosing it.

Compare for your needs

Consider the MB2236i if a color touchscreen matters more than standard analog fax, or a duplex-ADF model if two-sided intake is routine.

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Before you buy

Does the MB2236adw print in color?

No. Lexmark identifies the MB2236adw as a monochrome laser printer, although its scanner can capture color originals.

Can its ADF scan both sides automatically?

No. Lexmark specifies a 50-sheet simplex feeder; double-sided originals need an additional pass or manual handling.

Does it include a standard fax function?

Yes. The U.S. MB2236adw specification lists fax among the model's functions.

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

Choose the MB2236adw for a connected mono office that needs standard fax and automatic print duplex, provided its simplex ADF and monthly guidance suit the work.

Is it the right fit?

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

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