🖨️ Review: Canon imageCLASS MF273dw - A Reliable Monochrome Multifunction Workhorse
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a monochrome (black-and-white) laser printer designed to be a productivity powerhouse for home offices and small to medium-sized businesses. Combining printing, scanning, and copying capabilities with fast speeds and robust wireless connectivity, this all-in-one (AIO) device aims to deliver efficiency without complexity.
We delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw to see if it lives up to the Canon name.
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| Review: Canon imageCLASS MF273dw - A Reliable Monochrome Multifunction Workhorse |
📑 Core Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Functionality | Print, Copy, Scan (3-in-1) |
| Print Technology | Monochrome Laser |
| Print Speed (PPM) | Up to 30 Pages Per Minute (Letter) |
| First Print Out Time | Approx. 5.3 seconds |
| Print Resolution (Max) | Up to $2400 \times 600$ dpi (Equivalent) |
| Automatic Duplexing | Yes (Two-sided printing) |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 35-Sheet Capacity |
| Standard Paper Capacity | 150-Sheet Cassette |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB 2.0, Wi-Fi Direct, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service |
| Display | Adjustable 5-Line Monochrome LCD |
| Recommended Monthly Volume | 200–2,000 pages |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
🚀 Performance: Speed Meets Quality
The MF273dw is built for speed and consistency, two hallmarks of laser printing technology.
Blazing Fast Output
Rated at 30 pages per minute (PPM), the Canon MF273dw is certainly quick for its class. This speed is sufficient to handle the daily workload of a busy small office or a remote worker who prints frequently. More impressively, the First Print Out Time (FPOT) is approximately 5.3 seconds, meaning there's minimal waiting time when sending a one-off document.
Sharp Monochrome Quality
As a monochrome printer, its focus is on text and graphics quality in black and white. The maximum print resolution of $2400 \times 600$ dpi (equivalent) ensures that documents have crisp, sharp text edges.
Text: Standard business documents, reports, and invoices come out looking excellent, rivaling the sharpness of higher-end models.
Graphics & Photos: While not designed for high-end photography, the printer handles black-and-white charts, graphs, and embedded images with adequate clarity, though some dithering may be noticeable, which is typical for mono lasers.
Effortless Duplexing
One of the printer's most significant efficiency features is automatic duplex printing. The ability to print automatically on both sides of the paper helps reduce paper consumption and save time, cementing its role as an eco-conscious office device.
🛠️ Multifunctionality and Usability
The "MF" in MF273dw stands for MultiFunction, and this device successfully integrates three core office tools: printing, scanning, and copying.
Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)
The inclusion of a 35-sheet Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) is crucial for boosting productivity. This allows users to place a stack of documents on top for unattended copying or scanning, a feature indispensable for processing multi-page contracts or large sets of paperwork quickly. However, note that some users report the ADF does not support duplex scanning (scanning both sides of a page simultaneously).
Scanning and Copying
Both scanning and copying functions are intuitive. The flatbed scanner is perfect for thick documents or single pages, while the ADF handles bulk tasks. Copy speed matches the print speed, ensuring quick reproduction of documents.
Connectivity and Setup
The MF273dw shines in its connectivity suite:
Wireless Flexibility: It supports Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing for printing from virtually any device without a physical network.
Mobile Printing: Compatibility with Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, and the Canon PRINT Business app ensures seamless printing from smartphones and tablets.
Traditional Options: For reliability, Ethernet (LAN) and USB 2.0 ports are also included.
Setup is generally reported as straightforward for basic printing, though a few customers have noted the initial wireless configuration process can be a little less intuitive than desired, particularly when connecting non-standard devices.
Control Panel
The printer features an adjustable 5-line monochrome LCD screen. While functional and easy to read, some reviewers have expressed a wish for a modern touchscreen interface, which is a common feature on newer AIO models. This non-touch screen requires navigating menus using physical buttons, which may feel slightly dated but remains perfectly serviceable.
💰 Value Proposition and Verdict
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw presents a compelling value proposition, particularly for users seeking a durable, low-maintenance workhorse.
Running Costs
Laser printers typically offer a lower cost per page than inkjet printers, and the MF273dw is no exception. It uses the Canon Cartridge 071 (standard yield, $\sim 1,200$ pages) and the high-yield Cartridge 071 H ($\sim 2,500$ pages), providing excellent longevity between toner replacements. The recommended monthly print volume of up to 2,000 pages suggests it's truly built for consistent, frequent use.
Footprint and Design
With dimensions around $15.4" \times 14.4" \times 14.6"$, its footprint is relatively compact for a laser AIO with an ADF. Its simple, black aesthetic allows it to blend seamlessly into most office environments.
Final Assessment
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a highly recommended multifunction monochrome laser printer for small offices and home users with high-volume printing needs.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
| Fast Print Speed (30 PPM) and quick FPOT. | No touchscreen; relies on a 5-line LCD and physical buttons. |
| Automatic Duplex Printing saves paper. | ADF does not perform duplex scanning. |
| 35-sheet ADF for high-volume copying/scanning. | Input paper capacity is somewhat limited at 150 sheets. |
| Excellent print quality for text documents. | Initial wireless setup can be tricky for some users. |
| Multiple connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Mobile). | |
| Low running costs with high-yield toner options. |
In conclusion, if your priority is speed, reliability, crisp black-and-white output, and essential multifunction capabilities in a relatively compact laser package, the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is an outstanding choice that offers fantastic value for money.