Types of Brother 5170DN Printers: Choosing the Right Model for Your Business
The Brother 5170DN series includes two closely related models designed for high-volume monochrome printing in small to medium-sized offices. While both deliver reliable performance, they differ significantly in functionality, making one more suitable than the other depending on your office workflow. Understanding these differences helps ensure you select the model that aligns best with your productivity needs.
Brother 5170DN
A dedicated, high-speed monochrome laser printer built for efficiency and reliability in print-heavy environments.
Key Features
- Print speed up to 28 pages per minute (ppm)
- First page out in just 10.5 seconds
- Automatic duplex printing (two-sided)
- 250-sheet standard input, expandable to 1,050 sheets
- Fast Ethernet network connectivity for shared use
- Compact design ideal for space-constrained offices
Limitations
- Print-only functionality (no scan, copy, or fax)
- Limited to black-and-white output only
- Fewer workflow integration options
Best for: Offices prioritizing fast, high-volume printing with minimal maintenance
Brother 5370QF
A multifunctional powerhouse combining printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one robust device.
Key Features
- Print speed up to 24 ppm (slightly slower than 5170DN)
- Color fax capability with digital sending options
- Integrated flatbed scanner for high-quality document digitization
- Automatic document feeder (ADF) for batch scanning and copying
- Automatic duplex printing and 250-sheet tray (expandable)
- Network-ready with shared access across multiple users
Limitations
- Slightly reduced print speed compared to 5170DN
- Larger footprint due to added components
- Higher initial investment and maintenance costs
Best for: Small offices needing an all-in-one solution to streamline document management
| Model | Print Speed | Functions | First Page Out | Max Paper Capacity | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother 5170DN | 28 ppm | Print Only | 10.5 seconds | 1,050 sheets | High-volume printing environments |
| Brother 5370QF | 24 ppm | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax | 11 seconds | 1,050 sheets | All-in-one office productivity |
Expert Tip: If your office frequently handles client documents, contracts, or invoices, the Brother 5370QF’s scanning and faxing capabilities can significantly reduce reliance on external services and improve internal workflow efficiency. However, for departments focused solely on report generation or bulk printing (like accounting or logistics), the faster 5170DN offers better value and performance.
Specifications and Design of the Brother HL-L5170DN Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L5170DN is a high-performance monochrome laser printer designed for small offices and workgroups that demand fast, reliable, and cost-effective printing. Engineered with professional environments in mind, this printer combines speed, durability, and network-ready functionality to streamline document output. Understanding its technical specifications, setup process, and maintenance requirements ensures optimal performance and extended service life.
Technical Specifications
Print Speed & First Page Output
The Brother HL-L5170DN delivers impressive productivity with a print speed of up to 28 pages per minute (ppm), making it ideal for high-volume printing environments. It also features rapid warm-up technology, producing the first page in approximately 10.5 seconds, minimizing wait times and improving workflow efficiency.
Print Resolution
With a maximum print resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi, the printer produces sharp text and clean graphics suitable for professional documents, reports, and internal communications. This resolution ensures legibility and a polished appearance without the need for higher-cost color printing.
Connectivity Options
The HL-L5170DN comes equipped with built-in Ethernet (10/100BASE-TX), enabling seamless integration into wired office networks. This allows multiple users to share the printer efficiently. It is fully compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring broad software support and easy driver installation across platforms.
Paper Handling Capacity
The standard paper tray holds 250 sheets, reducing the frequency of refills during busy periods. Optional paper trays can expand total capacity to up to 1,050 sheets, supporting uninterrupted printing for large jobs. The printer supports a variety of paper sizes including Letter (8.5" x 11"), Legal (8.5" x 14"), and Folio (8.5" x 13"), offering flexibility for different document types.
Duplex Printing
The automatic two-sided (duplex) printing feature helps reduce paper consumption by up to 50%, promoting sustainability and lowering operational costs. It’s especially useful for reports, contracts, and multi-page documents where double-sided printing is preferred.
Physical Dimensions & Weight
Measuring 14" (W) x 14.6" (D) x 10.5" (H) and weighing 25.8 lbs, the HL-L5170DN offers a compact footprint suitable for space-constrained offices. Its sturdy build ensures stability during operation while remaining manageable for relocation when needed.
| Specification | Detail | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 28 ppm | High throughput for busy workgroups |
| First Page Out | Approx. 10.5 seconds | Reduced waiting time, improved efficiency |
| Resolution | 1200 x 600 dpi | Crisp, professional-quality text output |
| Network Connectivity | Ethernet (10/100BASE-TX) | Easy sharing across multiple users |
| Standard Paper Capacity | 250 sheets (expandable to 1,050) | Less frequent reloading, ideal for volume printing |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic | Saves paper and supports eco-friendly practices |
Installation Guide
Setting up the Brother HL-L5170DN is straightforward when following these steps. Proper installation ensures reliable operation and prevents common issues such as paper jams or toner spills.
Maintenance and Best Practices
Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your Brother HL-L5170DN and ensures consistent print quality. Implementing these routines will help prevent downtime and costly repairs.
Important: Always use genuine Brother consumables and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and maintenance. Using non-OEM toner or improper handling techniques may void your warranty and lead to mechanical or print quality issues. For troubleshooting or advanced support, refer to the official user manual or contact Brother Customer Service.
What the Brother HL-L5170DN Can Be Used For
The Brother HL-L5170DN is a powerful monochrome laser printer designed for high-performance environments. With its fast print speeds, professional-grade output, and network-ready functionality, it serves as a reliable workhorse across commercial offices and industrial settings. Whether you're managing daily reports or technical documentation, this printer delivers efficiency, clarity, and seamless integration into busy workflows.
Commercial Use
- High-Volume Document Printing: Designed for demanding office environments, the Brother HL-L5170DN prints up to 28 pages per minute (ppm), significantly reducing wait times when handling large print jobs. This makes it ideal for generating reports, spreadsheets, invoices, and internal communications in high-traffic settings such as law firms, accounting offices, and corporate departments.
- Professional Quality Reports: Featuring a print resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi, the printer produces crisp text and sharp graphics essential for professional documents like contracts, proposals, and client presentations. The high clarity ensures readability and conveys a polished, credible image—critical for maintaining a professional standard in business communications.
- Network Printing Capabilities: Equipped with built-in Ethernet (10/100BASE-TX), the HL-L5170DN can be easily integrated into any office network. Multiple users can access the printer simultaneously, eliminating bottlenecks and improving productivity in team-based environments. It supports secure printing and can be managed remotely via web interface or mobile apps.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: The built-in two-sided printing feature reduces paper consumption by up to 50%, lowering operational costs and supporting sustainability goals. It streamlines the creation of booklets, manuals, and multi-page reports without requiring manual reinsertion of paper, enhancing both speed and convenience.
Industrial Applications
- Mechanical Printouts: In engineering and manufacturing environments, the ability to quickly produce technical documentation is crucial. The HL-L5170DN efficiently handles internal memos, equipment logs, maintenance checklists, and procedural manuals. Its consistent performance under continuous use makes it suitable for factory floors and maintenance departments.
- Construction Plans and Blueprints: While not a wide-format printer, the HL-L5170DN is excellent for printing scaled-down versions of architectural drawings, schematics, and project layouts on standard letter-sized paper. Its high-resolution output ensures that fine lines, labels, and dimensions remain clear and legible—essential for on-site reference and team coordination.
- Safety and Compliance Reports: Industrial operations require regular documentation of safety inspections, incident reports, and OSHA compliance records. The printer’s reliability and speed allow for timely production and distribution of these critical documents, helping organizations maintain regulatory standards and promote workplace safety.
- Project Documentation: Project managers in construction, logistics, and R&D benefit from the printer’s ability to generate progress charts, Gantt schedules, material requisitions, and status updates with precision and consistency. Combined with network sharing, it enables real-time access to updated project files across departments.
Pro Tip: To maximize the value of the Brother HL-L5170DN, pair it with high-yield toner cartridges (like the TN760 series) and a 520-sheet paper tray extension for uninterrupted printing during peak periods. This setup is especially beneficial in shared workspaces or departments with heavy print demands.
| Use Case | Key Feature Utilized | Benefit | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Reports & Proposals | 1200 x 600 dpi Resolution | Professional, sharp text and formatting | Executives, Sales Teams, Legal Departments |
| Shared Office Printing | Built-in Ethernet Networking | Seamless multi-user access | Corporate Offices, SMEs, Workgroups |
| Cost-Efficient Operations | Auto Duplex Printing | Reduces paper usage and printing costs | Administrative Hubs, Educational Institutions |
| Technical & Engineering Docs | Fast 28 ppm Output | Rapid production of complex documents | Manufacturing, R&D, Construction Firms |
Additional Advantages
- Reliability & Durability: Built with a robust design and a monthly duty cycle of up to 80,000 pages, the HL-L5170DN withstands heavy workloads without performance degradation.
- Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR® certified, reducing power consumption and operating costs over time.
- Easy Maintenance: User-replaceable toner and drum units minimize downtime and service costs.
- Mobile Printing: Supports Brother iPrint&Scan, Google Cloud Print™, and AirPrint® for flexible printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Security Features: Includes secure print release, department ID management, and network authentication protocols for sensitive environments.
How to Choose the Brother HL-L5170DN: A Comprehensive Guide for Business Printing
The Brother HL-L5170DN is a powerful monochrome laser printer designed to meet the demanding needs of modern offices. Known for its reliability, speed, and cost-efficiency, this printer is ideal for businesses that require consistent, high-volume output. Whether you're managing a small startup or supporting a busy department in a larger organization, understanding the key features of the Brother 5170DN will help you determine if it's the right fit for your workflow. This guide breaks down critical considerations including print volume, speed, quality, and operating costs to help you make an informed decision.
Important Note: The model referenced is commonly known as the Brother HL-L5170DN. Ensure you're purchasing the correct model to benefit from network connectivity, high-speed printing, and automatic duplexing features.
Print Volume Consideration
Assessing your office’s average monthly print volume is the first step in selecting the right printer. The Brother HL-L5170DN is engineered for medium to large office environments, with a recommended monthly duty cycle of up to 80,000 pages. This makes it exceptionally well-suited for teams that regularly print hundreds—or even thousands—of documents per week.
For offices with heavy print demands, the printer supports an optional 550-sheet paper tray (in addition to the standard 250-sheet cassette), bringing total input capacity to 800 sheets. This expansion minimizes the need for frequent paper refills, enhances productivity, and reduces interruptions during high-volume print jobs. It's particularly beneficial for departments like HR, finance, or legal services that handle large batches of reports, contracts, and forms.
Pro Tip: If your office prints more than 2,000 pages per month, the HL-L5170DN’s robust design and high-duty cycle make it a smarter long-term investment than entry-level models that may wear out prematurely.
Print Speed and Performance
The Brother HL-L5170DN delivers impressive performance with a maximum print speed of 35 pages per minute (ppm), allowing your team to complete print tasks quickly and efficiently. This rapid output helps minimize downtime and keeps workflows moving, especially during peak hours.
Actual print speed may vary based on several factors, including:
- Document complexity (e.g., dense text, graphics, or fonts)
- Print resolution settings (draft vs. high quality)
- Network congestion (when printing over Ethernet or Wi-Fi)
- Driver configuration and spooling settings
To ensure optimal performance, install the latest Brother Universal Print Driver and configure the printer through its built-in web interface. Enabling features like automatic duplexing and job queuing further enhances efficiency, especially in shared office environments.
Print Quality
The HL-L5170DN produces sharp, professional-quality monochrome documents with excellent clarity and consistency. It offers a native print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi (with HQ1200 technology), ensuring crisp text and clean lines—ideal for business-critical documents such as:
- Financial statements and invoices
- Legal contracts and compliance forms
- Internal memos and executive reports
- Technical documentation and spreadsheets
Unlike lower-resolution printers that may produce blurry or faint text, the 5170DN maintains legibility even in small fonts and fine details. The result is a polished, professional appearance that reflects well on your organization’s standards.
Cost of Operation
One of the most compelling advantages of the Brother HL-L5170DN is its low total cost of ownership (TCO). Key cost-saving features include:
- High-capacity toner cartridges: The TN760 standard yield cartridge prints up to 2,500 pages, while the TN730 high-yield option delivers up to 8,000 pages—reducing replacement frequency and cost per page.
- Low cost per page: At approximately 2.3 cents per page, it ranks among the most economical laser printers in its class.
- Energy efficiency: ENERGY STAR® certified with a low power consumption mode, helping reduce electricity costs over time.
- Minimal maintenance: Durable components and reliable design mean fewer service calls and lower repair costs.
When compared to inkjet printers or lower-duty-cycle models, the 5170DN offers significant long-term savings, especially for high-volume users.
| Feature | Brother HL-L5170DN Specification | Business Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | Up to 35 ppm | Reduces wait times and boosts productivity |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 80,000 pages | Suitable for high-volume office environments |
| Print Resolution | 1200 x 1200 dpi | Professional-quality text and documents |
| Standard Paper Capacity | 250 sheets | Expandable to 800 sheets with optional tray |
| Cost per Page | ~2.3 cents (black) | Low operating cost for high-volume printing |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, Mobile Printing | Flexible integration into modern office networks |
Expert Recommendation: Pair the HL-L5170DN with Brother’s iPrint&Scan app for seamless mobile printing from smartphones and tablets. This enhances convenience for remote workers and improves accessibility across hybrid work environments.
Final Considerations
The Brother HL-L5170DN stands out as a reliable, high-performance monochrome laser printer that balances speed, quality, and affordability. It's particularly well-suited for:
- Businesses with moderate to high print volumes
- Offices seeking a network-ready printer with wireless capabilities
- Teams prioritizing low operating costs and minimal maintenance
- Environments requiring professional-grade document output
If your current printer struggles to keep up with demand or your cost per page is too high, upgrading to the Brother 5170DN could deliver measurable improvements in efficiency and savings. Always consider future growth when selecting a printer—choosing a model with headroom ensures longevity and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Brother HL-L5170DN Printer
Q1: Can the Brother HL-L5170DN handle legal-sized paper?A1: Yes, the Brother HL-L5170DN is designed to accommodate a variety of paper sizes, making it ideal for both home and office use. It supports standard paper formats including:
- Legal (8.5 x 14 inches): Perfect for legal documents, contracts, and longer reports.
- Letter (8.5 x 11 inches): The most common size used in offices and schools.
- Folio (8.5 x 13 inches): Often used in professional documentation and publishing.
The printer features a 250-sheet input tray that can be adjusted to fit different paper sizes, and it also includes a single-sheet manual feed slot for specialty media such as envelopes or thicker paper stocks. Always ensure paper guides are properly aligned to prevent jams and ensure optimal print quality.
Q2: Does the Brother HL-L5170DN come with a toner cartridge?A2: No, the Brother HL-L5170DN does not include a toner cartridge in the box. While the printer is ready to set up out of the box, you will need to purchase a toner cartridge separately before printing. The printer uses the Brother TN730 or high-yield TN760 black toner cartridges.
- TN730 Standard Yield: Approximately 1,200 pages.
- TN760 High Yield: Approximately 3,000 pages—ideal for high-volume printing environments.
It's worth noting that some retailers may offer bundle deals that include a starter toner or additional cartridges, so checking the full product listing before purchase can help avoid unexpected costs.
Q3: Is the Brother HL-L5170DN loud during operation?A3: No, the Brother HL-L5170DN is considered quiet for a monochrome laser printer. During normal printing, it operates at an average sound level of around 60 decibels (dB), which is comparable to a normal conversation.
- Standby Mode: Less than 45 dB – nearly silent.
- Printing Mode: ~60 dB – low hum, not disruptive in shared workspaces.
- Peak Noise (during warm-up or duplexing): Up to 65 dB, briefly.
This makes the printer suitable for quiet environments like home offices, small businesses, or near workstations where noise could be distracting. Its efficient motor and well-insulated casing contribute to its relatively low acoustic output.
Q4: Does the Brother HL-L5170DN support wireless connectivity?A4: Unfortunately, the Brother HL-L5170DN does not support wireless (Wi-Fi) connectivity. However, it does offer robust wired networking options:
- Built-in Ethernet (10/100BASE-TX): Allows direct connection to a router or network switch, enabling multiple users on the same network to share the printer.
- USB 2.0 Interface: For direct connection to a single computer.
While it lacks Wi-Fi, AirPrint, or mobile app support, its Ethernet capability ensures reliable performance in office settings where wired networks are standard. For wireless functionality, consider the Brother HL-L5200DW or similar models that include Wi-Fi and mobile printing features.
| Connectivity Type | Supported? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi / Wireless | No | Not available on this model |
| Ethernet (Wired Network) | Yes | 10/100 Mbps – ideal for office use |
| USB 2.0 | Yes | Direct connection to PC or Mac |
| Mobile Printing (e.g., AirPrint, Google Cloud Print) | Limited | Only via network-connected host computer |
A5: Yes, setting up the Brother HL-L5170DN is straightforward and user-friendly, even for those with minimal technical experience. The package includes a comprehensive setup guide and all necessary cables (except toner, as mentioned).
- Step-by-Step Manual: Clear instructions for unpacking, installing the drum, connecting cables, and loading paper.
- Driver Installation: Drivers and software are available via the included CD or can be downloaded from Brother’s official website for the latest versions.
- Network Setup: Once connected via Ethernet, the printer can be added through your computer’s printer settings using its IP address or Bonjour (on Mac).
Most users report having the printer operational within 15–30 minutes. Brother also provides online support resources, video tutorials, and customer service to assist with any setup challenges. With its intuitive interface and plug-and-play design, the HL-L5170DN offers a hassle-free installation experience.
