When buying a printer, you may have noticed that model names often have extra letters at the end — like HP 2821e, Canon G3020, or Brother HL-L2350DW.
These letters aren’t random! They usually reveal the printer’s special features, like wireless capability, duplex printing, or multi-function ability.
Knowing how to decode these model numbers can help you choose the right printer faster and smarter.
Table of Contents
Common Letters in Printer Models and What They Mean:
| Code | Meaning | Example Printers |
|---|---|---|
| W | Wireless Printing | Brother HL-1210W, Epson L3150, Canon G3010 |
| L | LAN (Wired Network Connection) | Canon LBP6230dn |
| D | Duplex (Auto Double-Sided Print) | Brother HL-L2350DW, Canon MF264dw |
| N | Network (Ethernet) Capable | HP LaserJet Pro M404n, Brother HL-L5200DN |
| E | HP+ or Eco Model | HP DeskJet 2821e, HP LaserJet MFP M234sdwe |
| F | Fax Function Included | Brother MFC-L2710DW, Canon MF645Cx |
| MFC | Multi-Function Center (Print, Scan, Copy, Fax) | Brother MFC-J2330DW, Brother MFC-L2750DW |
Brand-specific Examples
HP
-
HP DeskJet 2821e
E = HP+ Ready (cloud-based smart printing features) -
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw
F = Fax, D = Duplex, W = Wireless
(Full multi-function device) -
HP LaserJet Pro M404n
N = Network-ready, no wireless.
Canon
-
Canon PIXMA G3010
0 = Basic Wireless printing, no duplex. -
Canon PIXMA G3020
2 = Wireless printing + slight upgrades over G3010. -
Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dn
D = Duplex, N = Network-capable. -
Canon MF264dw
D = Duplex, W = Wireless.
Epson
-
Epson EcoTank L3150
5 = Wireless model. -
Epson L5190
9 = Higher model with Fax included. -
Epson EcoTank L3210
0 = Basic, no wireless. -
Epson L5290
9 = Wireless + Fax capability.
Brother
-
Brother HL-1210W
W = Wireless. -
Brother HL-L2350DW
D = Duplex, W = Wireless. -
Brother HL-L5200DN
D = Duplex, N = Network capable, no wireless. -
Brother MFC-L2710DW
MFC = Multi-function, D = Duplex, W = Wireless.
Why Is This Important?
If you understand these model codes, you can instantly know:
-
Does it support Wi-Fi?
-
Does it do automatic duplex printing?
-
Does it have fax?
-
Can it connect to my network via cable?
It saves you from accidentally buying a printer without key features you need!
Quick Buying Tips:
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Always check for “W” if you need wireless printing.
-
Look for “D” if you want auto double-sided printing.
-
“F” or “MFC” are crucial if you need to fax or scan.
-
“E” in HP means it might be tied to HP+ subscription (needs constant internet).
Conclusion
Printer models are like secret codes — once you know how to read them, you’ll never be confused again. Save time, avoid wrong purchases, and always get the features you actually need!