Xerox B310 Laser Printer Review Compact Wireless Performance for Home and Small Offices

Description

Compact Design That Fits Anywhere

The Xerox B310DNI Printer is impressively compact for a laser printer, making it a great fit for tight spaces in home offices or small workplaces. At just 14.3 inches deep, 14.5 inches wide, and 8.7 inches high, it blends seamlessly into my desk setup without feeling like it’s taking over the room. Its understated black-and-white design doesn’t scream for attention, which suits a minimalist workspace perfectly. I was quite happy to see that it’s lightweight too, weighing about 20 pounds, so moving it around wasn’t a hassle.

What stood out to me most was the 250-sheet paper capacity, which is quite generous for its compact size. This feature saved me from constantly refilling paper every few days, as I often print in bulk. Plus, the automatic two-sided printing feature not only saved paper but also gave my documents a professional touch.

Performance and Speed

I was genuinely impressed by how fast this printer churned out pages. With a print speed of up to 42 pages per minute, it’s no slouch. Whether I printed simple text documents or high-resolution black-and-white imagery, I never felt it slowed down or lagged. The 2400 x 2400 dpi resolution ensured that even the smallest details in my prints came out crisp and clear.

Its 1 GHz dual-core processor and 256 MB of memory clearly play a role in delivering such smooth performance. I tested it on various tasks, from printing long reports to short invoices, and it never faltered. The printer is marketed as a workhorse, and it certainly lived up to that reputation during my usage.

Connectivity and Convenience

Setting up this printer was a breeze, thanks to the Xerox Smart Start Software. I didn’t need to call in IT help or spend hours figuring out the installation process. The built-in Wi-Fi was a lifesaver, allowing me to print directly from my laptop, smartphone, and even my tablet. It supports Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, and Chromebook printing, making it incredibly versatile for a wide range of devices.

One feature I particularly appreciated was the Wi-Fi Direct functionality, which let me bypass my home network and print directly from my devices. This was incredibly useful when my router decided to act up. The inclusion of an Ethernet port also adds flexibility for office setups that rely on wired connections.

Highlights

• Blazing fast print speeds of up to 42 pages per minute.
• High-resolution output at 2400 x 2400 dpi, ensuring crisp and clear prints.
• Wireless printing with support for multiple platforms, including AirPrint and Mopria.
• Automatic duplex printing helps save paper and gives documents a professional look.
• Eco-friendly features like EPEAT certification and toner cartridge recycling.

Areas for Improvement

While I appreciated the printer’s many positives, there were a few small hiccups during my experience:

• The LCD display feels outdated and could use a more modern interface for easier navigation.
• No color printing option, which can be limiting for those who occasionally need vibrant visuals.
• Higher-than-average noise levels during operation, which might not be ideal for quiet environments.

Competing Products

Compared to similar models, like the HP LaserJet Pro M15w and Brother HL-L2350DW, the Xerox B310DNI holds its own in terms of speed, paper capacity, and print quality. The Brother model offers comparable duplex printing but lacks the robust security features found in the Xerox. On the other hand, the HP model is smaller and quieter but sacrifices paper capacity and speed.

What really sets the Xerox apart is its focus on security. Features that safeguard sensitive data and protect against cyber threats make it a standout choice for small businesses handling confidential information. However, if you’re looking for a quieter and more compact option, the HP might be better suited to your needs.

Cost Efficiency

When it comes to value for money, the B310DNI strikes a good balance. Its durability, speed, and eco-friendly features make it worth the investment. While it might not be the cheapest option on the market, the cost savings in paper with duplex printing and the reliability of a trusted brand like Xerox make it a smart purchase for small businesses or home offices.

The toner cartridge recycling program is another bonus, helping to keep long-term costs lower while being environmentally conscious. For anyone regularly printing high volumes, the monthly duty cycle of up to 8,000 pages makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Additional information