Quality prints for workplaces that need color output, too
The Xerox C235 ($579.99) is a small all-in-one (AIO) color laser printer with superb print quality, an easy-to-use control panel, and a flexible shortcuts system for customizing the printer’s tasks. It has a wide range of connection options, including Wi-Fi and a dedicated USB port for walk-up printing via a thumb drive. And it offers a full array of mobile-based features, including compatibility with Xerox’s cloud-based Workflow Central platform. With its modest print speeds and moderate workload ratings, the C235 is best suited for workplaces where top-notch print quality is required, but only at moderately heavy output levels. It’s a solid alternative to the Editors‘ Choice-winning Brother MFC-L3780CDW. Design: Compact and Capable
At 13.6 by 16.2 by 15.5 inches (HWD), the C235 is unusually compact for an AIO color laser printer. It’s a little bit smaller overall than the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw. That HP model measures 13.4 by 16.5 by 16.5 inches, which is a full inch deeper than the C235. The C235 is also trimmer in all three dimensions than the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, which comes in at 15.8 by 17.5 by 16.1 inches. And it’s significantly smaller than the Ricoh C125 MF. That Ricoh model is almost bulky by comparison, taking up 18.6 by 16.5 by 19.4 inches. If the space in which you’ll install it is tight, especially when considering the depth, the C235 could be the best fit.
As you might expect, the C235’s weight reflects its slim and trim physique. It weighs in at 42.7 pounds, though here the HP 3301fdw has a weight advantage with its even lighter 37.7 pounds. You could make a case that lighter-weight printers may have plastic parts where metal parts might be preferred. If you accept that argument, you may be more comfortable with the low, but not extremely low, weight of the C235. For comparison, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW comes in at 44 pounds, while the Ricoh C125 MF tips the scales at a hefty 66.1 pounds.
Given the relatively low retail price for this model, you have to expect some configuration cutbacks when compared with higher-priced models. The paper input capacities are often a key area where you’ll find this kind of price-sensitive feature reduction. The C235 has a standard 250-sheet paper input tray, a single-sheet manual feed slot, a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF), and no provision for adding an optional tray. That’s the same configuration as the Brother MFC-L3720CDW, the HP 3301fdw, and the Ricoh C125 MF.
As for paper output, the C235 is far from generous. This model’s paper output bin has a modest 100-sheet capacity. That’s the same output capacity as the HP 3301fdw, but it falls short of the 150-sheet capacity of the Brother MFC-L3720CDW and Ricoh C125 MF.
The 1,500-page recommended monthly print volume rating for the C235 suggests it’s best suited for only a moderate-level workload. That’s the same rating as the Ricoh C125 MF. The HP 3301fdw has a more robust 2,500-page monthly print volume rating, while the Brother MFC-L3720CDW is rated for a much heavier 3,000-page monthly print volume.
Similarly, Xerox rates the C235 as having a 30,000-page maximum monthly duty cycle. That’s the same rating as the Ricoh C125 MF. However, both of those models fall short of the 40,000-page monthly duty cycle for the Brother MFC-L3720CDW and HP 3301fdw.Setup and Software: Some Extra Effort Needed
In testing, I found the setup process to be relatively easy, with only a slight workaround required. The four toner cartridges are preinstalled, though you’ll need to temporarily unload them to remove a large number of plastic restraints. Once the printer is fully unpacked, you can load some paper, plug in the unit, and enter the basic info (such as language, date, and time) into the control panel. If you plan to use the unit wirelessly, you can also have it search for any available Wi-Fi networks. And a handy printed QR code for your Android or iOS mobile device walks you through the process of setting up and configuring your new printer.
If you plan to use the C235 with a computer, you can use the supplied CD-ROM disc to install the necessary drivers. The disc’s setup program will download the Xerox Smart Start application (you can also grab it yourself), which will then search for the C235 so you can connect to the printer via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. If the Smart Start app can’t find the C235, you can input the printer’s IP address, which is prominently displayed on its screen. After you’ve installed the necessary drivers, you’ll have only a Xerox notification app on your desktop. And that’s fine, if you plan to use the printer as is, strictly on its own without any interaction.
Just be aware that a full software package is available, though it does require some extra steps to track down. To get the full package, you’ll need to select Smart Start’s link for additional software on the Xerox website. You’ll want to choose and download the Xerox Print and Scan Experience app.
