New York, NY -- Originally reviewed by CNET back in April of 2009, the CP2025N is a single-function color laser geared towards small businesses who need a color laser for the office. It is able to be networked and shared among multiple devices, which is good because of the amount of space it requires. The CP2025n measures a whopping 12.7” x 15.9” x 25.9” (H x W x D) and weighs 50lbs. It can print a maxiumum speed of 21ppm and has a first page out time of under 18 seconds.
Some of the printer’s other features include a 2-line monochrome LCD and a 40,000 page maximum monthly duty cycle (though the recommended volume is much lower at a max of 2,000 pages). Far from being a feature-rich model, the CP2025n does achieve the mission of being a reliable color laser printer. It’s overall exterior design is commonplace as well with the primary color being gray. If the machine’s 250-sheet input tray and 50 sheet multipurpose tray are not enough, you can add an additional 250-sheet tray for $50 more.
One thing lacking from this machine are the ability to automatically duplex pages, which business users would most likely want. However, if you are willing to manually duplex sheets yourself, the software that comes with the machine will show you via on screen instructions. If you do need the duplexer, for an additional $50, you can purchase the CP2025dn which has all the same features as the 2025n, but adds the automatic duplexer. Also missing from the machine is a front USB port to allow direct printing from thumb drives or digital cameras.
In terms of ink, the CP2025n uses four individual toner cartridges: black (CC530A), cyan (CC531A), magenta (CC532A), and yellow (CC533A). The black cartridge will cost $98.49 from Amazon.com (a dual cartridge pack is $157.70) and is good for 3,500 pages. Each of the color cartridges cost $120.99 from HP (Amazon prices vary) and yield 2,800 pages. The printer does ship with a full set of standard cartridges.
Overall this is a decent model which will serve most small business owners well. It is likely more printer than a home office user needs, unless they want the ability to print color laser documents. Many multifunction inkjets will have the quality necessary for a home user and will cost significantly less.
