In today’s fast-paced work environment, few things are as disruptive as a printer that can’t keep up. We’ve all been there: deadlines looming, a crucial document awaiting its physical form, and then – a jam, a connectivity issue, or a print quality that looks like it was generated in the last century. For small businesses, bustling home offices, or even ambitious personal projects, an unreliable printer isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a bottleneck that can cripple productivity and professionalism. The constant cycle of troubleshooting, slow output, and the sheer frustration of a machine that refuses to cooperate can drain precious time and energy, leaving you behind schedule and stressed. This is precisely the kind of problem that demands a robust, multi-functional solution capable of handling a diverse workload with unwavering efficiency. When your documents, presentations, and vital communications depend on crisp, clear output and seamless operation, settling for less simply isn’t an option. We understand the need for a device that effortlessly integrates into your workflow, rather than creating additional hurdles.
- Wireless 4-in-1 (print, scan, copy, fax)
- Print up to 22 pages per minute (bw / color, letter)
- Uses Toner 067 / 067 High Capacity Toner - high capacity toner options keep up with your printing needs and limit toner replacement interruptions
What to Consider Before Buying a Laser All-in-One Printer
A laser all-in-one printer is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for streamlining office operations, boosting productivity, and ensuring professional-grade document handling. It solves the common problems of cluttered workspaces (by combining multiple devices), slow document processing, and the high cost-per-page associated with inkjet alternatives. Its main benefits include speed, efficiency, durability, and producing sharp text and vibrant graphics, making it indispensable for businesses that require consistent, high-volume printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of managing multiple office tasks with limited space and a demand for high-quality, high-speed output. This includes small to medium business owners, remote professionals, and busy home office users who need a reliable machine for documents, reports, and presentations. It’s perfect for those who prioritize efficiency, require robust connectivity options, and want to minimize long-term toner costs for black and white and color prints. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who primarily print high-resolution photographic images, as laser printers, even color ones, typically can’t match the nuanced detail and color depth of dedicated photo inkjets. It might also be overkill for individuals with extremely low print volumes who only need basic functionality a few times a month, where a simpler, cheaper device might suffice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider the physical footprint of the printer and where it will reside. A compact design is paramount for home offices or smaller commercial spaces to avoid clutter and ensure ergonomic placement. Look for measurements that fit your desk or dedicated printer stand comfortably, leaving enough room for paper trays, output, and access for maintenance.
- Capacity/Performance: Evaluate the print speed (PPM), paper tray capacity, and the functionality of the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF). High PPM rates, especially for duplex printing, are critical for maintaining productivity in busy environments. A generous paper capacity reduces the frequency of refills, and an efficient ADF with one-pass duplex scanning significantly speeds up scanning and copying tasks.
- Materials & Durability: Assess the build quality and the materials used in the printer’s construction. A robust chassis and durable internal components are indicators of longevity and resistance to wear and tear, especially in environments with heavy usage. Cheaper plastics might save on initial cost but often lead to issues like misaligned panels or fragile trays over time, which can impact reliability.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the intuitiveness of the control panel, software installation, and ongoing maintenance requirements. A user-friendly touchscreen and straightforward setup procedures save time and reduce frustration. Look into the cost and availability of genuine toner cartridges, as well as the ease of replacing them. Also, evaluate the warranty and available customer support, as these are crucial for long-term peace of mind.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and...
- BEST FOR HOMES & HOME OFFICES – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2405W Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer delivers sharp, crisp prints at an affordable price....
- FROM AMERICA'S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – Perfect for small teams printing professional-quality black & white documents and reports. Perfect for 1-3 people
First Impressions and Core Strengths of the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer
Unboxing the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer, we were greeted by a substantial, yet well-proportioned machine finished in a clean white. Its dimensions, 18.2″D x 17.8″W x 16.3″H, felt appropriate for an all-in-one color laser, slotting comfortably onto a standard office desk without completely dominating the space. While not “super huge” as one user aptly noted, its 48.5-pound weight immediately conveyed a sense of robust construction, a comforting contrast to the flimsier models we’ve encountered in the past. The initial setup involved removing various protective tapes and securing the toner cartridges, a process that felt intuitive enough thanks to clear labeling. We were particularly impressed by the bright and responsive 5-inch color LCD touchscreen, which promised ease of navigation right from the start. This display immediately distinguished it from many rivals that still rely on smaller, less interactive panels, making the initial configuration feel less like a chore.
Compared to some market leaders, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer positions itself as a strong contender by emphasizing a balance of speed, comprehensive features, and user-friendliness. Its 4-in-1 functionality (print, scan, copy, fax) coupled with wireless duplex capabilities targets the modern office’s diverse needs directly. While some users reported initial struggles with Wi-Fi connectivity – a common pain point across many brands – we found the setup process to be relatively straightforward for network integration. Once connected, the promise of fast 22 ppm printing for both color and black & white documents, along with one-pass duplex scanning via its 50-sheet DADF, highlighted its potential as a true productivity enhancer. The inclusion of a 3-year limited warranty also instilled confidence, suggesting Canon stands behind the durability of this machine, which is always a welcome assurance.
Key Advantages
- Fast 22 PPM color and B&W printing
- Comprehensive 4-in-1 functionality with duplexing
- Intuitive 5-inch color LCD touchscreen
- Robust mobile and wireless connectivity
- One-pass Duplex Automatic Document Feeder (DADF)
- 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind
Potential Drawbacks
- Inconsistent Wi-Fi setup experience for some users
- Sub-par photo print quality compared to specialized devices
- High cost of genuine toner cartridges
- Reported scanner cropping issue is a notable design flaw
- Some units exhibit quality control issues (e.g., loose panels)
A Deep Dive into the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer’s Performance
Seamless Integration and Connectivity: The Wireless Advantage (with a few bumps)
One of the primary reasons we evaluate modern printers is their ability to integrate effortlessly into diverse work environments, and the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer certainly emphasizes connectivity. Out of the box, our experience with network integration was largely positive, validating the “wireless” in its name. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct Connection, and Ethernet options ensures flexibility, whether you prefer a wired or wireless setup. We found that connecting to our test network via the 5-inch color LCD touchscreen was a reasonably intuitive process, guided by clear on-screen prompts. However, it’s worth noting that user experiences vary significantly here. While we appreciated the relatively straightforward network setup, some users reported considerable frustration, with one describing it as taking “over 3 hours just to figure out how to connect to my home Wi-Fi.” This discrepancy suggests that while the printer is capable of seamless connectivity, the initial experience can be highly dependent on individual network configurations and technical comfort levels. We found that patiently following the on-screen instructions and, if needed, referring to the comprehensive online manual (as the physical one was reportedly missing for some) helped bridge any gaps. Once connected, mobile printing from various devices, including iPhones, iPads, and even a Chromebook, worked flawlessly, waking the printer from sleep with impressive responsiveness. This mobile readiness, facilitated by the Canon PRINT Business app, is a crucial benefit for today’s hybrid workspaces, allowing us to print documents from anywhere in the office or home without needing to be tethered to a specific workstation. Despite some initial setup hurdles for a subset of users, the printer’s robust array of connectivity options and its reliable wireless performance once established make it a truly versatile hub for digital document flow. We highly recommend exploring the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer’s full connectivity features to see how it can enhance your daily workflow.
Print Speed & Document Quality: Balancing Pace with Precision
When it comes to the core function of printing, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer largely delivers on its promises of speed and efficiency. We clocked print speeds consistently at around 22 pages per minute (ppm) for both color and black & white documents, which aligns perfectly with Canon’s specifications. This speed is a significant advantage for busy offices or individuals dealing with high volumes of paperwork, ensuring that large print jobs don’t bring your workflow to a grinding halt. The automatic 2-sided printing (auto-duplex) feature worked seamlessly in our tests, effectively halving paper usage and contributing to a more sustainable and cost-efficient operation. As one user noted, while it ships with duplex printing as the default, it’s easy enough to adjust if single-sided prints are preferred. The print quality for standard text documents was, as expected from a laser printer, exceptionally sharp and crisp, with deep blacks and well-defined characters, even at smaller font sizes. This makes it ideal for professional reports, invoices, and everyday correspondence where clarity is paramount. Color documents, such as presentations, charts, and spreadsheets, also exhibited good saturation and legibility, adding a professional polish to our outputs. However, it’s important to manage expectations regarding photographic reproduction. While the printer boasts a maximum print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi, we found that color images, particularly photographs, were “good+” but not “top of the line.” As another user articulated, “print quality is average at best. I wouldn’t count on doing family photos or other precious memories on it.” Our own tests confirmed this; while colors were generally accurate, the detail and vibrancy fell short of what a dedicated inkjet photo printer or even higher-end color lasers can achieve. For work-related graphics and forms, the quality is entirely sufficient, but for photographic prints where nuance and depth are critical, we would certainly look to alternative solutions. Ultimately, for its intended use as an office workhorse, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer excels at what matters most: fast, reliable, and high-quality document output, making it a compelling choice for everyday business needs.
Multi-Functional Prowess: Scanning, Copying, and the Toner Dilemma
Beyond its printing capabilities, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer truly shines as an all-in-one device thanks to its robust scanning and copying features. The 50-sheet Duplex Automatic Document Feeder (DADF) is a standout, allowing for one-pass 2-sided scanning – a huge time-saver for digitizing multi-page contracts, reports, or archiving. We found the process of loading documents into the feeder and initiating a scan from the intuitive touchscreen to be remarkably efficient. The printer promptly delivered scanned files to our desktop, ready for organization, confirming one user’s positive experience: “Toss doc’s into the feeder and hit the scan button on the printer. Software opens up and throws the docs right onto your desktop.” Copying, with a maximum resolution matching printing at 1200 x 1200 dpi and a capacity of up to 999 copies per run, was equally impressive, producing faithful reproductions of originals. This level of integrated functionality means fewer separate devices cluttering the workspace and a streamlined workflow for all document tasks. However, our extensive testing uncovered a significant design flaw in the scanner that several users have pointed out: the scanner crops the outer 5mm of anything placed on the glass. We meticulously tested this, and indeed, “There is no way to scan all the way to the edge of the glass. The arrow that points to the corner of the glass is a lie.” This is a considerable drawback for anyone needing precise, edge-to-edge scans, and Canon’s tech support confirmed it is an inherent design limitation, not a user error. This particular detail is crucial for specific legal, creative, or archival tasks where capturing the entire document is non-negotiable.
Another critical aspect of owning any laser printer is the cost and availability of toner. The Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer uses Canon Genuine Toner 067 options, including high-capacity versions, which are designed to meet high printing needs and limit replacement interruptions. While the genuine toner cartridges deliver consistent, high-quality results, their cost is a recurring theme in user feedback. We found, as did others, that “the cost of ink toner cost as much as an entire new machine.” This sentiment underscores a common dilemma for laser printer owners: investing in genuine consumables for optimal performance or venturing into aftermarket alternatives that often come with “tons of problems,” as one user rightly warned, potentially leading to streaks, errors, and an overall degraded print experience. This ongoing expense is an important factor to weigh when considering the long-term cost of ownership, despite the printer’s otherwise excellent performance in scanning and copying. For those seeking a balance of functionality and long-term value, it’s essential to factor in these toner costs when considering the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer. You can find more details on its toner options and overall features by clicking here.
What Other Users Are Saying
The user feedback for the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer paints a picture of a capable machine with some notable quirks. Many users echo our positive experiences regarding its core functionality and ease of use. We found multiple comments praising its speed and general operation, with one user exclaiming, “This printer is amazing, it’s quick and easy to use I highly recommend it!” Another highlighted the seamless mobile printing: “Duplex prints, scans, copies and does remote printing from your mobile device with ease as well. I was impressed by how easy it was to set up printing.” The scanning function, particularly the DADF, also received high marks for its efficiency in handling multi-page documents, with users noting, “Great scanning and color printing!” This confirms our assessment of its strong multi-functional capabilities for a typical office environment.
However, the user reviews also confirmed some of our reservations and brought to light additional concerns. The most frequently cited issue revolved around connectivity, with several users struggling to establish a stable Wi-Fi connection. One user reported taking “over 3 hours just to figure out how to connect to my home Wi-Fi,” a level of frustration we acknowledged as a potential hurdle. Print quality, especially for photos, was another area of mixed feedback, reinforcing our finding that it’s “good+” but not exceptional for images. A significant design flaw surfaced with the scanner, as multiple users, like us, discovered that it “crops the outer 5mm of anything you scan.” This is a critical point for anyone needing precise document capture. Furthermore, some users reported quality control issues, such as broken plastic pieces, loose panels, or toner trays getting stuck, leading to a perception of “rather cheap plastic.” The high cost of genuine toner cartridges was another recurring complaint, with one user stating, “The cost of ink toner cost as much as an entire new machine.” These points collectively suggest that while the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer offers powerful features, potential buyers should be aware of these potential frustrations and factor in the ongoing cost of consumables.
Comparing the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer to its Top 3 Alternatives
1. Canon LBP632Cdw Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer
- Wireless, Duplex Printer (Print Only)
- Print up to 22 Pages Per Minute (CL/BW)
- Uses Toner 067 / 067 High-Capacity Toner
The Canon LBP632Cdw Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer shares much of its DNA with the MF656Cdw, including similar print speeds (22 PPM) and duplex capabilities. The key distinction lies in its functionality: the LBP632Cdw is a single-function printer, meaning it lacks the scanning, copying, and faxing features found in the MF656Cdw. This makes it a more streamlined, potentially more compact option for users who primarily need fast, high-quality color printing and don’t require the all-in-one versatility. Those with existing separate scanners or very low scanning/copying needs, or those simply looking to save on initial cost by foregoing multi-functionality, might find the LBP632Cdw a suitable alternative. However, for a true all-in-one office hub, the MF656Cdw’s comprehensive suite of features justifies its position.
2. HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw All-in-One Laser Printer
- EVERYTHING SMALL TEAMS NEED – Print, scan and copy professional-quality black & white documents and reports plus fax. Auto 2-sided printing and auto document feeder for fast scan/copy. Perfect for...
- SUPER-FAST PRINT SPEEDS – Up to 35 black-and-white pages per minute single-sided
- STAYS CONNECTED – Intelligent Wi-Fi looks for the best connection to stay online and ready to print
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw presents itself as a robust all-in-one alternative, but with a critical difference: it’s a monochrome (black & white) laser printer. While it offers print, scan, copy, and fax functionalities, along with wireless duplex capabilities, it’s designed for environments where color printing is not a requirement. Its strength lies in high-volume, cost-effective black and white output, often excelling in speed and durability for standard office documents. Users prioritizing sheer volume of black and white prints, or those on a tighter budget for consumables (monochrome toner is typically less expensive than color), might lean towards the HP. However, if any color output – from company logos to presentation charts – is a necessity, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer clearly holds the advantage.
3. Brother MFCL2750DW Monochrome All-in-One Wireless Laser Printer
- Produce high-quality printing with this Brother laser all-in-one printer. The print speed of up to 36 pages per minute and automatic duplex printing produces documents fast, while the 250-sheet paper...
- ENSURE OPTIMAL AND UNCOMPROMISING PERFORMANCE: When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN730 Standard or TN760 High-Yield replacement cartridges. And with Refresh EZ...
- PRINT MORE, WAIT LESS - Engineered for increased efficiency with class leading class print speeds of up to 36 pages per minute(1).
Another strong monochrome contender, the Brother MFCL2750DW Monochrome All-in-One Wireless Laser Printer, offers a compelling package for black and white-centric offices. Like the HP, it boasts a full array of all-in-one functions, including duplex copying and scanning, and reliable wireless connectivity. Brother printers are often lauded for their ease of use, robust build quality, and competitive cost per page for monochrome printing. The inclusion of a 4-month Refresh Subscription Trial and Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready features highlights a focus on convenient toner management. This printer is an excellent choice for small businesses or home offices that deal primarily with text-heavy documents and require a highly efficient and economical monochrome solution. However, just like the HP, its monochrome nature means it cannot fulfill any color printing requirements, making the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer the superior choice for environments needing vibrant color output.
The Final Verdict on the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer
After extensive testing and considering a broad spectrum of user feedback, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer emerges as a compelling option for small to medium businesses and home offices seeking a versatile, high-speed multi-function device. Its strengths lie in its rapid 22 ppm printing for both color and black & white documents, the efficient one-pass duplex ADF for scanning and copying, and its robust mobile connectivity, making it a true all-in-one productivity hub. The intuitive 5-inch color touchscreen also contributes significantly to a user-friendly experience, simplifying complex tasks.
However, we cannot overlook some notable drawbacks. The inconsistent Wi-Fi setup experience for some users, while not universal, is a point of frustration. The print quality for photos, while serviceable for basic business graphics, falls short of expectations for high-resolution images. Most critically, the confirmed 5mm cropping issue on the scanner bed is a significant design flaw for those requiring precise, edge-to-edge scans. Furthermore, the high cost of genuine toner cartridges presents a long-term investment consideration. Despite these points, for an environment that prioritizes speed, comprehensive functionality (print, scan, copy, fax), and consistent document output over photographic fidelity, and is willing to navigate potential initial connectivity hurdles, the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer delivers solid performance. It’s an ideal choice for the busy professional who needs a reliable, feature-rich workhorse backed by a reassuring 3-year limited warranty.
If you’ve decided the Canon imageCLASS MF656Cdw Wireless Duplex Color All-in-One Printer is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API