HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw Plus vs M126nw: What Is the Difference?

Quick Answer

The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw Plus and the original HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw are closely related monochrome multifunction laser printers, but they are not the same retail SKU. The Plus model carries product number 53X75A, while the original M126nw carries CZ175A.

Both print, scan and copy; both offer USB, Ethernet and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; both print up to 20 pages per minute on A4; and both have 128 MB memory, manual duplex printing, a flatbed scanner, a 150-sheet input tray and an 8,000-page maximum monthly duty cycle. The main improvements in the Plus are a 1 GHz processor instead of 600 MHz, a slightly faster stated first-page time, Bluetooth Low Energy for easier setup, and official specifications aimed at newer operating systems and the HP app.

For most buyers, the Plus is the safer choice when purchasing new, provided it has a valid HP India warranty and the price difference is reasonable. However, it is not a major upgrade in print speed, paper handling, automatic duplexing or scanning convenience.

Complete Article

People shopping for an affordable HP monochrome laser multifunction printer often encounter two almost identical names: HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw and HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw Plus. This creates an obvious question: does “Plus” represent a genuinely improved printer, or is it merely a new name used by sellers?

HP's documentation shows that the two products have different product numbers and belong to different product entries. The original M126nw is CZ175A, while the M126nw Plus is 53X75A. The Plus is best understood as a later refresh of the established M126nw platform. It retains nearly all of the original model's basic printing and paper-handling capabilities while updating some internal processing and connectivity details.

The comparison below uses HP's current M126nw Plus product page, HP's official M126nw Plus specifications, HP's official original M126nw specifications, and the manufacturer-authored legacy M126nw data sheet. Specifications and regional bundles can change, so buyers should also verify the product number and box contents on the unit being offered.

HP M126nw Plus vs M126nw: Specifications at a Glance

Feature	HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw Plus	HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw	Practical difference
Product number	53X75A	CZ175A	Confirms they are separate SKUs
Functions	Print, copy and scan	Print, copy and scan	No difference
Print technology	Monochrome laser	Monochrome laser	No difference
A4 print speed	Up to 20 ppm	Up to 20 ppm	No meaningful speed increase
First page from ready	As fast as 8.7 seconds	As fast as 9.5 seconds	Plus is slightly quicker on paper
Processor	1 GHz	600 MHz	Plus has the clearest internal hardware upgrade
Memory	128 MB, not expandable	128 MB, not expandable	No difference
Best print resolution	Up to 600 × 600 dpi	Up to 600 × 600 dpi	Similar text output quality
Duplex printing	Manual, with driver support	Manual, with driver support	Neither has automatic two-sided printing
Input/output capacity	150 sheets/100 sheets	150 sheets/100 sheets	No difference
Scanner	Flatbed CIS, up to 1,200 dpi optical	Flatbed CIS, up to 1,200 dpi optical	No major difference
Automatic document feeder	No	No	Multi-page scans must be placed one page at a time
Fax	No	No	No difference
Connectivity	USB 2.0, Fast Ethernet, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and BLE	USB 2.0, Fast Ethernet and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi	Plus adds BLE, primarily useful during setup
Mobile printing	HP app, AirPrint, Mopria and Wi-Fi Direct	AirPrint, HP ePrint/Wireless Direct and Mopria in later HP listings	Plus has more current app terminology and positioning
Monthly duty cycle	Up to 8,000 pages	Up to 8,000 pages	No difference
Recommended monthly volume	250–2,000 pages	250–2,000 pages	Both target light-duty home and small-office use
Dimensions	420 × 365 × 254 mm minimum	420 × 365 × 254 mm	Same basic footprint
Printer weight	8.0 kg	8.0 kg	No difference
Listed replacement toner	HP 88A; HP also lists 88X for the Plus	Legacy data sheet lists HP 88A	Confirm cartridge compatibility for the exact printer and region

ppm means pages per minute and cpm means copies per minute. Published speeds are measured under test conditions; actual speed depends on the document, driver, connection and computer.

1. The Most Important Difference: Product Number and Generation

The model name printed in an online listing is not enough to identify the printer correctly. Use the product number:

• M126nw Plus: 53X75A, commonly shown in India as 53X75A#ACJ.

• Original M126nw: CZ175A.

This distinction matters for warranty registration, drivers, firmware, replacement parts and seller disputes. A listing whose title says “Plus” but whose product photograph, invoice or carton says CZ175A should be treated as the original model unless HP or the seller provides a satisfactory explanation.

The “Plus” suffix should not automatically be interpreted as an extra-toner bundle. A retailer may create a promotional package, but HP's model name identifies the refreshed printer SKU itself. Always check the invoice for the exact product number and any promised accessories.

2. Printing Performance: Almost the Same

Both models are rated for up to 20 ppm on A4 paper and up to 21 ppm on Letter paper. Therefore, a customer replacing a working M126nw with the Plus should not expect a major increase in continuous print speed.

The Plus has a slightly quicker published first-page-out time: approximately 8.7 seconds from ready, compared with approximately 9.5 seconds in the original model's data sheet. The difference may be noticeable when repeatedly printing one-page documents, but it is too small to transform normal office productivity.

Both printers have a stated best black print resolution of up to 600 × 600 dpi and use HP's laser imaging technologies to produce sharp black text. They are designed for invoices, reports, schoolwork, letters and ordinary office documents—not colour photographs or colour graphics.

3. Processor: A Real Upgrade in the Plus Model

The M126nw Plus has a 1 GHz processor, while the original M126nw uses a 600 MHz processor. This is the clearest specification upgrade.

A faster processor can help the printer interpret print jobs, respond through its interface and process some complex pages more efficiently. It does not, however, increase the rated A4 engine speed beyond 20 ppm. The benefit is more likely to appear in job preparation and responsiveness than in the time taken to physically print a long stack of simple pages.

Both models still have 128 MB of fixed memory, with no supported memory upgrade. Very large or graphically complex print jobs can therefore remain more demanding than normal text documents.

4. Wi-Fi, Ethernet and Mobile Printing

Both printers support the three connections most small offices need:

• Hi-Speed USB 2.0 for a direct computer connection;

• Fast Ethernet for a stable wired office network; and

• 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi on the 2.4 GHz band.

The Plus specification also lists Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). BLE should not be confused with ordinary Bluetooth document printing. Its main value is assisting discovery and setup with a compatible application; normal print data is generally sent through Wi-Fi, Ethernet or USB.

The Plus is officially presented with the HP app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria and Wi-Fi Direct. The original model's documentation lists HP ePrint, Apple AirPrint and Wireless Direct, while later HP material also identifies Mopria support. In practice, the Plus has the advantage of being documented around HP's newer software ecosystem.

Neither printer provides 5 GHz Wi-Fi. If an office router has separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, the printer must be connected to the 2.4 GHz network or by Ethernet. A computer or phone on 5 GHz may still print when both bands are bridged on the same local network, but router isolation settings can prevent discovery.

5. Windows 11, macOS and Driver Support

The original M126nw was introduced when Windows 8, Windows 7 and older operating systems were common, so its historical data sheet naturally lists those platforms. That does not by itself prove that the printer cannot work with a newer computer. HP still maintains an official M126nw driver and software page, on which the user can select the operating system and obtain available packages.

The M126nw Plus specification explicitly lists Windows 10, Windows 11, recent macOS versions, Android, iOS and Linux, and HP provides a separate M126nw Plus driver page.

This makes the Plus easier to recommend with a current PC, but compatibility should always be checked for the exact operating-system edition and architecture before purchase. Do not rely only on a marketplace seller's compatibility list. HP may offer a full software package, a basic driver, an operating-system class driver or app-based setup depending on the platform.

6. Scanning and Copying: No Major Productivity Upgrade

Both models use a flatbed Contact Image Sensor scanner with an optical resolution of up to 1,200 dpi. They can make up to 99 copies, resize copies from 25% to 400%, adjust darkness and place both sides of an ID card onto one page through the ID Copy function.

The important limitation is that neither printer has an automatic document feeder (ADF). To scan or copy a ten-page document, the user must lift the scanner lid and place every sheet manually. This is acceptable for occasional IDs, bills and one-page documents but inefficient for frequent multi-page scanning.

Neither model supports automatic duplex scanning. If multi-page or two-sided document scanning is a regular requirement, buyers should consider a printer with an ADF and duplex scanning rather than choosing between these two models.

7. Paper Handling and Two-Sided Printing

Both models provide:

• a 150-sheet input tray;

• a 100-sheet output bin;

• support for common paper, envelopes, labels, transparencies and postcards; and

• media weights from approximately 60 to 163 g/m².

Both have manual duplex printing only. The driver can guide the user to turn and reload the paper, but the printer does not automatically reverse each sheet. Anyone printing many two-sided reports should consider an automatic-duplex model.

8. Monthly Print Volume: Understand the Two HP Figures

HP lists a maximum monthly duty cycle of up to 8,000 pages for both printers, but the recommended monthly page volume is only 250 to 2,000 pages.

These figures have different meanings. The duty cycle is a maximum robustness reference, not a recommended monthly target. For better long-term reliability and more reasonable maintenance, normal use should remain within the recommended range. A business that expects to print close to 8,000 pages every month should buy a printer designed for a heavier recommended workload.

9. Toner: HP 88A and the 88X Question

The established cartridge for this platform is the HP 88A Black Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge (CC388A), with a stated replacement yield of approximately 1,500 pages under ISO testing. Actual yield varies with page coverage, document type, density settings and printing behaviour.

HP's Plus data sheet also lists the HP 88X (CC388X) high-yield cartridge at approximately 1,700 pages. The original M126nw's historical data sheet lists the 88A because it predates that later supply listing.

Buyers should not conclude from those documents alone that every cartridge sold as 88X is officially supported by every M126nw unit in every market. Before purchasing toner, check the printer's product number, the compatibility list on the genuine HP cartridge packaging and HP's regional supplies page. Third-party sellers often use broad compatibility descriptions that may not reflect HP's official regional warranty or firmware position.

10. Energy Use and Noise

The Plus documentation states approximately 501 watts while printing, 4.7 watts in ready mode and 0.7 watts in sleep mode, with a typical electricity consumption figure of 0.234 kWh per week under the cited ENERGY STAR method. The original data sheet lists approximately 465 watts while printing, 2.2 watts ready, 0.7 watts sleep and a historical TEC figure of 0.502 kWh per week.

These figures should be interpreted cautiously. TEC test methods and regulatory versions can change over time, so the two weekly measurements may not be directly comparable even though they appear in the same unit. The Plus has newer environmental positioning, including EPEAT Silver registration for India in HP's documentation, but this does not mean it always draws less instantaneous power while actively printing.

The stated acoustic pressure is about 47 dB(A) for the Plus and 48 dB(A) for the original under their respective documented test conditions. The one-decibel difference is minor and may not be obvious in a real office.

11. What the Plus Model Does Not Add

The word “Plus” can create unrealistic expectations. The M126nw Plus does not add:

• colour printing;

• automatic duplex printing;

• an automatic document feeder;

• automatic duplex scanning;

• fax;

• 5 GHz Wi-Fi;

• a touchscreen;

• a larger paper tray;

• a higher 20 ppm A4 print speed; or

• expandable memory.

The Plus is therefore a modernized version of the same basic small-office concept, not a move into a higher printer class.

12. How to Confirm Which Model You Are Buying

Before paying, perform these checks:

1. Look for 53X75A or 53X75A#ACJ if the seller claims it is the M126nw Plus.

2. Treat CZ175A as the original M126nw.

3. Match the product number on the printer's rating label, carton and tax invoice.

4. Ask the seller to confirm whether the unit has an official HP India warranty.

5. Check the serial number and warranty status through HP after purchase.

6. Confirm the included toner type and whether it is a setup cartridge or full-yield cartridge.

7. Download software only from HP's official support pages or 123.hp.com.

8. Avoid deciding solely from photographs, because many listings reuse generic product images.

13. Which Model Should You Buy?

Choose the HP M126nw Plus when:

• you are buying a new printer in the current market;

• you want the faster 1 GHz processor;

• you prefer a model officially documented for Windows 11 and HP's current app environment;

• BLE-assisted discovery and newer mobile setup are useful;

• the price difference is modest; and

• the unit includes a genuine HP India warranty.

Consider the original M126nw when:

• it is substantially cheaper;

• it is in genuinely good condition or is verified new old stock;

• its warranty status is acceptable;

• HP provides the driver required for your computer; and

• you only need ordinary black-and-white printing, copying and occasional flatbed scanning.

Consider neither model when:

• you need automatic two-sided printing;

• you regularly scan or copy multi-page documents;

• you need colour output;

• you require 5 GHz-only wireless networking;

• your monthly print volume is consistently high; or

• your workflow requires enterprise security, advanced fleet management or a larger paper capacity.

Common Buying Mistakes

• Assuming “Plus” doubles the print speed or adds automatic duplexing.

• Trusting the marketplace title without checking 53X75A or CZ175A.

• Confusing BLE setup assistance with Bluetooth document printing.

• Treating the 8,000-page duty cycle as the recommended monthly workload.

• Buying old stock without checking manufacture condition, warranty and consumable age.

• Purchasing a toner solely because a third-party listing includes “M126nw” in a long compatibility list.

• Expecting an ADF because the product is described as a multifunction printer.

• Assuming every home or office Wi-Fi network supports printer discovery without checking 2.4 GHz and client-isolation settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the HP M126nw Plus and M126nw the same printer?

No. They are closely related, but HP assigns them different product numbers: 53X75A for the Plus and CZ175A for the original. Their basic print engine and paper handling are very similar, while the Plus has some updated electronics and connectivity specifications.

2. What is the biggest upgrade in the M126nw Plus?

The most significant measurable upgrade is the processor: 1 GHz in the Plus versus 600 MHz in the original model. The Plus also adds BLE to its connectivity specification and is positioned for newer HP software and operating systems.

3. Is the M126nw Plus faster?

Not for long print runs. Both are rated up to 20 ppm on A4. The Plus has a slightly faster stated first-page-out time, but its continuous rated print speed is unchanged.

4. Does either printer print in colour?

No. Both are monochrome laser printers. Their scanners can capture colour, but their print output is black only.

5. Does the M126nw Plus have automatic duplex printing?

No. Both models offer manual duplexing with driver assistance. The user must turn and reload the paper.

6. Does either model include an automatic document feeder?

No. Both use a flatbed scanner, so multi-page originals must be scanned or copied one sheet at a time.

7. Can the M126nw Plus connect to 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

No. HP lists 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. It can also use Ethernet or USB.

8. Does BLE mean I can print directly through Bluetooth?

Not necessarily. BLE is mainly used for low-power discovery and assisted setup. Normal document printing is generally performed over Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet or USB.

9. Does the original M126nw work with Windows 11?

HP continues to provide an official driver-selection page for the original model, but available software can depend on the operating-system edition. Check HP's support page for the exact computer before buying, particularly when purchasing used or old stock.

10. Which toner does the M126nw use?

HP's established listed cartridge is the HP 88A (CC388A), with an approximate 1,500-page declared yield. HP also lists the 88X (CC388X) for the Plus in India. Verify the exact product number and HP's current regional compatibility list before ordering.

11. Is the 88X dramatically higher yield than the 88A?

No. HP's Plus data sheet states approximately 1,700 pages for the 88X versus approximately 1,500 pages for the 88A. Actual yield can differ considerably according to page coverage and usage.

12. Is an 8,000-page duty cycle suitable for printing 8,000 pages every month?

That is not the recommended interpretation. HP's recommended monthly volume for both printers is 250 to 2,000 pages. The duty cycle is a maximum comparison figure, not the ideal continuous workload.

13. Does the Plus have better print quality?

HP rates both at up to 600 × 600 dpi for best black output. Toner quality, paper, maintenance and driver settings are more likely to affect visible results than the “Plus” name.

14. Is the M126nw Plus good for a small office?

Yes, when the office needs shared black-and-white printing, occasional copying and single-page scanning within the recommended volume. It is less suitable for frequent multi-page scanning or automatic two-sided printing.

15. Is it worth replacing a working M126nw with the Plus?

Usually not solely for print performance. The rated print speed, tray, memory, scan format and duty cycle remain similar. Replacement makes more sense when the old unit is unreliable, current software compatibility is a problem or the user specifically values the refreshed connectivity and support position.

16. Why might the original M126nw cost more in some listings?

Online prices can reflect old stock, seller inventory, marketplace algorithms or scarcity rather than superior specifications. Compare product number, warranty, condition and seller credibility instead of assuming the higher price indicates a better model.

17. Can several office users share either printer?

Yes. Both have Ethernet and Wi-Fi networking. HP positions the Plus for teams of up to five users, and the original model was also designed for small shared environments.

18. How can I tell whether an online “Plus” listing is genuine?

Ask for a photograph of the carton and rating label showing 53X75A or 53X75A#ACJ, require the same number on the invoice and confirm the serial number and warranty through HP.

Final Recommendation

The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw Plus is the better new purchase, but mainly because it is the later, currently positioned SKU with a 1 GHz processor, BLE-assisted setup and newer operating-system documentation. It is not substantially faster at printing and does not solve the original model's biggest limitations: manual duplexing, no ADF, no fax and 2.4 GHz-only Wi-Fi.

If the Plus and original are offered at similar prices, choose the M126nw Plus 53X75A with a verifiable HP India warranty. If the original CZ175A is much cheaper, its condition and warranty are good, and HP offers the driver you need, it can still perform the same essential print, copy and scan tasks effectively. For frequent two-sided printing or multi-page scanning, skip both and invest in a model with automatic duplexing and an ADF.

Specifications checked against available HP documentation on 13 September 2026. Product availability, software support, warranty terms, toner bundles and prices may vary by country and seller.

 

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