The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is a robust monochrome laser printer designed for small to medium-sized businesses and home offices, offering a compelling blend of speed, print quality, and versatile connectivity.
It stands out for its impressive print speeds of up to 40 pages per minute ppm, automatic duplex printing, and multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, making it a highly efficient and adaptable choice for demanding printing environments.
This printer excels at producing sharp, professional-looking text documents consistently, which is crucial for business applications.
While it’s a monochrome-only device, its focus on performance and reliability for black-and-white printing makes it a strong contender in its category, especially when considering its durable build and relatively low running costs.
Here’s a comparison of the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw against some other notable printers and related products in the market:
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- Key Features: Up to 40 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, automatic duplex printing, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB connectivity, 250-sheet paper tray, 100-sheet multipurpose tray.
- Average Price: $250 – $300
- Pros: Very fast print speeds, excellent text quality, robust build, versatile connectivity, relatively low cost per page.
- Cons: No color printing, small touchscreen display, higher initial toner cost.
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- Key Features: All-in-one functionality print, copy, scan, fax, up to 36 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, automatic duplex printing/scanning, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, NFC, 50-page automatic document feeder ADF.
- Average Price: $280 – $350
- Pros: Multifunctional, fast scanning, good value for money, reliable.
- Cons: Slightly slower print speed than LBP236dw, scan quality can vary.
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- Key Features: Up to 40 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, Ethernet, USB, no Wi-Fi built-in M404dw has Wi-Fi, compact design.
- Average Price: $220 – $270
- Pros: Fast printing, excellent security features, compact, easy setup.
- Cons: No Wi-Fi on ‘n’ model, no automatic duplex printing M404dw has it, higher running costs than some competitors.
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- Key Features: Up to 36 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, automatic duplex printing, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, compact size.
- Average Price: $180 – $220
- Pros: Very compact, good print quality for its price, reliable.
- Cons: Slower print speed, smaller paper capacity, slightly higher cost per page.
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- Key Features: Monochrome inkjet not laser, refillable ink tanks, extremely low cost per page, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, automatic duplex printing, up to 20 ppm ISO.
- Pros: Unbeatable low running costs, large ink capacity, good for high-volume monochrome printing.
- Cons: Slower print speed than laser printers, inkjet technology might not be as crisp as laser for text, initial cost of ink is high.
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- Key Features: Up to 29 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, NFC, automatic duplex printing.
- Average Price: $150 – $200
- Pros: Compact, good print quality, NFC for easy mobile printing, affordable.
- Cons: Slower print speed, Samsung’s printer division was acquired by HP, which might impact future support/toner availability.
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- Key Features: Up to 40 ppm print speed, monochrome laser, automatic duplex printing, Ethernet, USB, optional Wi-Fi dongle.
- Average Price: $200 – $250
- Pros: Fast, reliable, good for networked environments, robust.
- Cons: Older model, Wi-Fi not built-in, design is less modern.
Unpacking the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw: A Deep Dive into Performance
When you’re looking for a workhorse monochrome laser printer, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw quickly rises to the top of the conversation.
It’s not just about slapping a few features together.
Canon has engineered this device to be a reliable partner for small businesses and home offices where efficiency and crisp text are paramount.
We’re talking about a printer that doesn’t just meet expectations, it aims to exceed them, especially when you consider its blend of speed, output quality, and connectivity.
Blazing Fast Print Speeds: Time is Money
- Real-world Impact: For businesses that churn out reports, invoices, or contracts on a daily basis, this speed translates directly into time saved. Imagine needing 50 copies of a ten-page report – a slower printer could take over 15 minutes, whereas the LBP236dw can knock it out in just a few minutes. This isn’t just a marketing spec. it’s a tangible benefit for your workflow.
- First-Print-Out Time FPOT: Beyond the raw ppm, the LBP236dw also boasts a quick first-print-out time, often under 6 seconds. This is crucial for single-page documents where you don’t want to be staring at a “warming up” message for an extended period.
- Comparison to Inkjets: While inkjet printers might offer color, they generally can’t hold a candle to laser printers like the LBP236dw when it comes to sheer black-and-white print speed, especially for high volumes. The LBP236dw is built for rapid, consistent output, which is precisely what businesses need.
Print Quality: When Crispness Matters
Speed without quality is just fast junk. Fitbit Inspire 3 Review
Fortunately, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw doesn’t compromise on print quality.
It delivers consistently sharp, professional-grade text documents, which is absolutely vital for any business correspondence, legal documents, or financial reports.
- Laser Precision: Laser technology, by its nature, excels at producing crisp text. The LBP236dw leverages this to its full potential, ensuring that every character is well-defined and free from smudges or jagged edges. Its default print resolution is typically 600 x 600 dpi, but it uses image refinement technologies like Canon’s UFR II LT to achieve an equivalent of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, resulting in remarkably smooth lines and solid blacks.
- Graphics and Greyscale: While primarily for text, the LBP236dw also handles simple graphics and greyscale images with competence. Charts and graphs in business presentations will appear clear and legible, even if they lack the vibrancy of color. For purely monochrome graphical content, it holds its own.
- Paper Compatibility: The printer handles a variety of media types and sizes, from standard letter and legal paper to envelopes and smaller custom sizes, ensuring versatility for different printing needs. The quality remains consistent across compatible media.
Connectivity Options: Plug In, Connect, Print
A printer’s utility is only as good as its ability to connect to your devices.
The LBP236dw excels here, offering a comprehensive suite of connectivity options that make it a flexible asset in any office environment, whether wired or wireless.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: The “dw” in LBP236dw signifies its built-in wireless capabilities. This means you can place the printer virtually anywhere within your network’s range, freeing you from cumbersome cables and allowing multiple users to connect and print from their laptops, tablets, or smartphones without physical tethering.
- Wireless Direct: For even greater convenience, the LBP236dw often supports Wi-Fi Direct, allowing devices to connect directly to the printer without needing a router. This is great for guest users or quick printing from a single device.
- Ethernet Network Port: For more stable and secure connections, particularly in a networked office environment, the Ethernet port is invaluable. It provides a robust connection that minimizes latency and ensures reliable data transfer, crucial for high-volume network printing.
- USB 2.0: The standard USB port allows for direct connection to a single computer, which is perfect for home office setups or situations where a wired connection is preferred for speed and simplicity.
- Mobile Printing Solutions: Beyond the hardware ports, the LBP236dw supports a range of mobile printing protocols, including:
- Apple AirPrint: For seamless printing from iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
- Mopria Print Service: For Android devices.
- Canon PRINT Business app: Canon’s own application provides additional control, allowing you to print documents, manage print settings, and check printer status directly from your mobile device. This app often includes cloud printing capabilities too, letting you print from services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Paper Handling and Capacity: Built for Volume
For a printer targeting small to medium-sized businesses, efficient paper handling is non-negotiable. Mackie Mp 20Tws Review
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is designed with this in mind, offering a respectable paper capacity and convenient features to minimize interruptions during large print jobs.
- Standard Paper Tray: The main paper cassette typically holds 250 sheets of paper. This is a good standard capacity for daily use, reducing the frequency of refills compared to smaller home printers.
- Multi-Purpose Tray: A crucial feature for versatility, the LBP236dw includes a 100-sheet multi-purpose tray. This is ideal for feeding various media types like envelopes, labels, heavier cardstock, or custom sizes without having to remove the main paper stock from the primary tray. This saves time and prevents paper jams often associated with specialized media in standard trays.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: The “d” in LBP236dw stands for duplex, meaning it has automatic two-sided printing capabilities. This is a must for reducing paper consumption and saving costs. It prints on both sides of the page without manual intervention, which is not only eco-friendly but also makes creating professional-looking double-sided documents effortless. Think about printing brochures or long reports – duplexing cuts your paper usage in half.
- Maximum Input Capacity: While the standard capacity is 350 sheets 250 + 100, some configurations or optional trays might allow for expansion, though the base model’s capacity is generally sufficient for its target market. It’s always worth checking if optional paper cassettes are available if your volume needs are exceptionally high.
Running Costs and Toner Efficiency: The Long Game
Initial purchase price is just one piece of the puzzle.
The true cost of ownership often lies in the consumables, specifically toner cartridges.
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is designed with efficiency in mind, aiming to keep your long-term running costs manageable.
- Toner Cartridge Yield: The printer uses Canon’s standard yield e.g., 070 and high-yield e.g., 070 H toner cartridges. High-yield cartridges are generally more economical in the long run because they offer a lower cost per page.
- A standard yield cartridge might produce around 1,500 pages.
- A high-yield cartridge could produce around 10,200 pages. This substantial difference means significantly fewer cartridge replacements and a lower cost per page.
- Cost Per Page CPP: While exact figures fluctuate based on retailer and promotions, the cost per page for the LBP236dw using high-yield cartridges is competitive, often in the range of 2-3 cents per page. This is a critical metric for businesses, as it directly impacts operational budgets. Compared to inkjet printers, even monochrome ones, laser printers like this typically offer a much lower CPP for text documents over volume.
- All-in-One Cartridge Design: Canon’s “all-in-one” toner cartridge design integrates the toner and drum unit into a single consumable. While this can sometimes make individual cartridge replacement slightly more expensive than printers with separate toner and drum units, it simplifies maintenance and ensures consistent print quality as a fresh drum unit is installed with each new toner. It also means fewer components to track and replace.
- Energy Efficiency: Beyond consumables, the LBP236dw is designed to be energy-efficient. It typically features Energy Star certification and includes power-saving modes like sleep mode that reduce electricity consumption when the printer is idle, further contributing to lower operational costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
Durability and Build Quality: A Reliable Workhorse
A printer intended for business use needs to be more than just fast and efficient. it needs to be durable and reliable. Pentax Hd D Fa Macro 100Mm F28 Ed Aw Review
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw lives up to the imageCLASS reputation, offering a sturdy build that’s designed to withstand the demands of a busy office environment.
- Robust Construction: The LBP236dw features a solid chassis and high-quality internal components, indicating that it’s built for longevity and consistent performance. This isn’t a flimsy plastic machine. it feels substantial and well-assembled.
- Duty Cycle: Manufacturers often provide a “monthly duty cycle” which indicates the maximum number of pages a printer can handle in a month without excessive wear. While the LBP236dw’s exact maximum duty cycle can vary by region and model variant, it’s typically rated for a significant number of pages e.g., up to 80,000 pages, with a recommended monthly volume often much lower e.g., 750-4,000 pages to ensure optimal long-term performance. This high maximum duty cycle speaks to its robust engineering.
- Reliable Paper Path: A common point of failure in printers is the paper handling mechanism. Canon printers are generally known for their reliable paper paths, minimizing frustrating paper jams, which can be a huge time-sink in a busy office.
- Ease of Maintenance: The all-in-one toner cartridge design simplifies maintenance. Replacing a cartridge is typically a quick, straightforward process that anyone can do, minimizing downtime. This contributes to the overall reliability and ease of use.
- Long-Term Investment: When you invest in a printer like the LBP236dw, you’re not just buying a piece of equipment. you’re buying a long-term tool. Its durability means less frequent need for repairs or replacements, offering better return on investment over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is primarily a monochrome laser printer designed for high-speed, high-quality black-and-white printing in small to medium-sized offices and home office environments.
Does the Canon LBP236dw print in color?
No, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is a monochrome black-and-white printer only. It does not print in color.
What is the maximum print speed of the LBP236dw?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw boasts a maximum print speed of up to 40 pages per minute ppm for black-and-white documents.
Does the LBP236dw support automatic double-sided printing?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw supports automatic duplex printing, meaning it can print on both sides of a page automatically without manual intervention. Samsung Smartthings Station Review
What connectivity options are available on the Canon LBP236dw?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw offers versatile connectivity including Wi-Fi, Ethernet wired network, and USB 2.0.
Can I print from my smartphone or tablet with the LBP236dw?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw supports mobile printing via Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, and the Canon PRINT Business app.
What type of toner cartridges does the LBP236dw use?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw uses all-in-one Canon 070 series toner cartridges, available in standard yield 070 and high-yield 070 H versions.
How much paper can the standard tray hold?
The standard paper tray of the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw can hold up to 250 sheets of paper.
Does the LBP236dw have a multi-purpose tray?
Yes, it includes a 100-sheet multi-purpose tray for handling various media types like envelopes, labels, or heavier stock. Leica M11 Monochrom Review
Is the Canon LBP236dw suitable for heavy-duty printing?
Yes, with its fast print speeds, robust build, and substantial monthly duty cycle, it is well-suited for high-volume black-and-white printing tasks.
What is the typical cost per page for the LBP236dw?
When using high-yield toner cartridges, the typical cost per page for the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is often in the range of 2-3 cents, making it quite economical.
Does the LBP236dw have a touchscreen display?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw typically features a small 5-line LCD display for navigation, rather than a full touchscreen.
Is the LBP236dw easy to set up?
Yes, setup is generally straightforward, whether connecting via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi, with guided driver installation.
Does this printer come with a starter toner cartridge?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw typically comes with a starter toner cartridge, which has a lower yield than standard replacement cartridges. 2023 Nissan Ariya Review
Can I print directly from a USB flash drive with the LBP236dw?
No, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw does not usually support direct printing from a USB flash drive.
Printing is done via connected computers or mobile devices.
What operating systems are compatible with the LBP236dw?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions.
How much memory does the Canon LBP236dw have?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw typically comes with 1GB of standard memory, which helps it handle complex print jobs efficiently.
What is the warranty on the Canon LBP236dw?
Canon typically offers a 1-year limited warranty for their imageCLASS printers, but it’s always best to check the specific warranty terms at the time of purchase. Asus Tuf Gaming Z790 Plus Wi Fi Review
Is the LBP236dw an all-in-one printer print, scan, copy, fax?
No, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is solely a printer.
It does not have built-in scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities.
For those functions, you would need an all-in-one model like the Canon imageCLASS MF264dw.
Is this printer noisy during operation?
Like most laser printers, it produces some noise during active printing, but it generally has a quiet mode or low noise levels when idle or in standby.
How does its print quality compare to inkjet printers?
For crisp, sharp black text, the laser technology in the LBP236dw generally outperforms monochrome inkjet printers. Samsung Hw Q990C 1114 Channel Soundbar Review
For photos or complex graphics, an inkjet might be better, but the LBP236dw excels at business documents.
Can I connect the LBP236dw to a network without Wi-Fi?
Yes, it can be connected to a wired network using its built-in Ethernet port.
Does the LBP236dw have an automatic document feeder ADF?
No, as it is a print-only device, it does not feature an automatic document feeder, which is typically found on multifunction printers for scanning and copying multiple pages.
What is the maximum recommended monthly print volume?
While its maximum duty cycle is high, Canon usually recommends a monthly print volume for optimal performance, often in the range of 750 to 4,000 pages for the LBP236dw.
Is it Energy Star certified?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw is typically Energy Star certified, indicating its energy efficiency. Starfield Review
Can I use third-party or refilled toner cartridges with the LBP236dw?
While technically possible, Canon recommends using genuine Canon toner cartridges for optimal performance, print quality, and to avoid potential damage or voiding of the warranty.
What is the physical size of the LBP236dw?
It is a compact desktop laser printer, typically measuring around 15.7″ W x 14.7″ D x 9.8″ H, making it suitable for smaller office spaces.
Does it support secure printing?
Yes, the LBP236dw typically supports secure print functions, allowing users to hold print jobs until a PIN is entered at the printer, enhancing document confidentiality.
Is the LBP236dw a good choice for a home office?
Yes, its speed, automatic duplexing, and versatile connectivity make it an excellent choice for a home office with moderate to high monochrome printing needs.
How does the LBP236dw compare to the LBP234dw?
The Canon imageCLASS LBP236dw and LBP234dw are very similar, often differing in minor speed boosts or specific regional market features, with the 236dw usually being the slightly newer or faster variant. Motorola Moto Buds 600 Anc Review
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