HP M476dn: wired color printing and single-pass document scanning review

A wired choice when two-sided originals matter

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M476dn combines color output with a single-pass duplex scanner. Its 50-sheet feeder captures both sides of an original during one passage, while the printer also supports automatic two-sided output. Those are separate capabilities, and both are relevant when an office regularly turns incoming documents into files and printed copies.

The dn is the wired CF386A configuration. It does not include the wireless networking or direct-print features of the related wireless models. Choose around your available connection and document routine rather than assuming every M476 has the same hardware.

Legal documents belong in the feeder

The feeder supports Letter, Legal and A4 originals, including two-sided capture. The glass is shorter, at approximately 8.5 by 11.7 inches, so a full Legal sheet cannot simply be placed there for one complete capture. The glass remains useful for smaller or fragile material that should not enter a feeder.

Single-pass describes the physical capture arrangement, not a guarantee about the speed of an entire file workflow. Color and black capture have different declared rates, while duplex image rates count individual sides. Destination processing and the computer can also affect completion time.

Choose a documented way to save the file

HP lists computer acquisition through compatible scan software, including TWAIN or WIA arrangements. Use a full installation that actually supplies the needed scanner components. Printing successfully over USB or Ethernet does not by itself demonstrate that the computer can save scans.

The touchscreen also provides a network-folder workflow. An administrator prepares a reachable shared destination, enters the path and credentials and tests the connection. This is useful for a repeatable office destination, but it depends on the network’s permissions and supported software environment.

The reviewed panel-folder procedure starts with an original on the glass. The assessment therefore keeps that specific route separate from the documented computer feeder workflow rather than promising every capture feature through every destination. A PIN protecting access to a scan destination is also different from a PIN used to release a held print job.

Wireless mobile devices still need a compatible network

The dn includes computer USB and Fast Ethernet. A phone or tablet can use the identified local-network mobile printing features through a suitable network, but the printer does not acquire a Wi-Fi radio from that description. The network arrangement, mobile application and printer firmware all matter.

AirPrint or Mopria should not be assumed to expose the same paper, duplex and scan controls as full desktop software. The original Mac guide explicitly distinguishes its driver-based duplex routine from AirPrint availability. If a particular finishing control is essential, verify it through the route you intend to use.

Three hundred supplied sheets, with space for Legal extension

The multipurpose tray and main cassette provide 300 ordinary input sheets together. The extra 250-sheet cassette is optional; it should not be counted unless it is physically included. The original guide directs envelopes and labels to the multipurpose tray even though broader sales tables list more cassette media.

Legal paper extends the main tray forward by approximately 2.5 inches. Allow that working depth as well as space for scanner access and cables. Select the correct paper size and type before using automatic print duplex, and do not treat envelope handling as ordinary two-sided printing.

Evaluate the complete earlier configuration

The recurring print recommendation is 1,000–2,500 pages per month. The 40,000-page maximum duty number does not replace that recommendation. Included analog fax requires appropriate phone service, and four separate toner colors add supply considerations beyond a monochrome-only machine.

Check the actual electrical plate: HP expressly describes separate regional power supplies rather than a dual-voltage unit. Also confirm condition, present software availability and any claimed extra tray. The M476dn fits wired color work with single-pass Legal capture; choose another configuration when built-in wireless or a Legal-size flatbed is essential.