Our take
The Sharp AL-1641CS combines monochrome laser printing with copying and computer-connected scanning. Its operation manual lists up to 12 printed pages per minute and 16 copies per minute, plus a 250-sheet tray and 50-sheet bypass. USB and parallel are the documented computer interfaces, which makes this a wired legacy device rather than a network-ready office printer. The manual describes two-sided copy workflows, but that does not by itself establish automatic duplex printing from a computer. The recommended monthly range and fax capability are not stated in the reviewed materials. Consider it only for basic local use when a buyer can verify the exact machine, driver path and maintenance condition.
A legacy local mono device for someone who needs basic copies and scanning as well as printing, and can use its documented wired connections..
Avoid it for Wi-Fi or Ethernet sharing, modern driver certainty, automatic duplex printing, fax, color, or a busy queue that needs a published monthly workload range.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- The manual covers print, copy and scan functions, providing more than a print-only workflow.
- Sharp lists a 250-sheet tray and 50-sheet bypass for ordinary and alternate paper feeding.
- USB and parallel connections are documented for local computer use.
What to weigh up
- The 12-ppm print rating is modest for a shared queue with frequent multi-page jobs.
- Ethernet and built-in wireless are not listed among the documented standard interfaces.
- The manual's two-sided copy procedure does not verify automatic duplex printing or a monthly recommendation.
Specifications and exact model details
The key details
| Model covered | AL-1641CS |
|---|---|
| Main functions | Monochrome laser print, copy and scan |
| Print output | 12 ppm printing, 16 cpm copying; 250-sheet tray plus 50-sheet bypass |
| Two-sided printing | Print duplex not established; two-sided copying is documented |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 17, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
Full review: how the features affect your choice
What the features mean for you
Copy, print and scan share one monochrome unit
Sharp's AL-1641CS manual describes the device as a digital multifunction system and includes separate instructions for printing and scanning from a computer. Copy functions use the flatbed and the single-pass feeder, while the scanner can send a captured image to software on the connected computer. This provides a simple office workflow for forms and paper originals, but it does not establish network scanning, scan-to-email or fax. A buyer who needs those workflows should choose a different model with explicit support rather than relying on the broader MFP label. ([Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual](https://www.directcopierservice.com/Manuals/SharpAL1641CS_1631ops.pdf)).
Compare the two rated speeds with the actual routine
The manual lists up to 12 pages per minute for printing and up to 16 copies per minute. These ratings describe separate tasks: a computer print job and a copy produced from a physical original. They are useful for determining whether the model's role should remain local and occasional, but they are not measured performance for a used machine. A busy team can feel the limits of a low print rating during long queues, while someone copying a few forms may value the integrated copier more than raw speed. Check that the document feeder and print path work on the exact unit. ([Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual](https://www.directcopierservice.com/Manuals/SharpAL1641CS_1631ops.pdf)).
Use the tray and bypass as a small two-source supply
Sharp lists a 250-sheet main tray and a 50-sheet multi-bypass tray. The main cassette can hold everyday paper, while the bypass gives a separate route for another paper size or a small special job. The capacities are useful for planning reload frequency, but they do not reveal how much paper is included with a used offer or whether feed rollers remain in good condition. Copy originals can also be loaded through the documented feeder, but its copy capability should not be read as a second paper input for printed output. ([Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual](https://www.directcopierservice.com/Manuals/SharpAL1641CS_1631ops.pdf)).
Treat two-sided copying and printing as different features
The manual describes a control for making two-sided copies from one-sided originals. That describes a copying workflow, not necessarily an automatic duplex unit for computer print jobs. The reviewed source does not establish a standard print duplexer or a separate manual print-duplex mode, so both printer fields remain unknown. Buyers who need two-sided reports should test the printer driver and verify exactly how sheets are turned before relying on it. This distinction avoids assuming that a copy function supplies automatic two-sided printing. ([Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual](https://www.directcopierservice.com/Manuals/SharpAL1641CS_1631ops.pdf)).
Plan for a direct wired connection and older software
The manual labels both a USB connector and a parallel connector on the AL-1641CS. Those are local wired paths; Ethernet and built-in wireless are not listed among the exact model's documented interfaces. The manual also presents software support from an older operating-system generation, so buyers using a current computer should verify a compatible driver or supported print path before selecting the machine. The reviewed guide does not state a recommended monthly page range. A low copy-speed class and unknown workload guidance make this a poor fit for a team that needs measurable fleet planning. ([Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual](https://www.directcopierservice.com/Manuals/SharpAL1641CS_1631ops.pdf)).
Compare for your needs
For shared printing, compare a mono model with documented Ethernet and current operating-system support. For routine two-sided printing, select a printer that specifies standard automatic duplex.
Find the undefined that fits you.
Tell us what matters. We’ll help you weigh the options.
Before you buy
What functions does the AL-1641CS provide?
Sharp's manual documents monochrome printing, copying and computer-connected scanning for the AL-1641CS.
How fast does it print and copy?
The manual lists up to 12 pages per minute for printing and up to 16 copies per minute for copying.
Does it include Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
The reviewed manual documents USB and parallel connectors; Ethernet and built-in wireless are not listed for this model.
Does it automatically print on both sides?
The manual describes two-sided copying, but the reviewed source does not establish automatic two-sided printing from a computer.
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.
- Sharp AL-1641CS operation manual and software guide ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
- Sharp AL-1641CS manual: print/copy/scan functions, speeds, tray capacities and USB/parallel connectors ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
- Sharp Global AL-1641CS toner safety sheet corroborating exact model identity ↗ — checked October 17, 2026.
The decision
The AL-1641CS fits basic local copy, scan and print needs only when its older software path and wired setup remain suitable.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.