Sharp MX-C304W: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the Sharp MX-C304W right for you?

The MX-C304W is a 30 ppm desktop colour MFP aimed at small offices and satellite sites, with standard Wi-Fi and a single-pass duplex feeder that scans both sides in one go. It uses the same driver family and panel layout as Sharp's larger machines, which simplifies support for IT teams. Colour toner yields are modest compared with an A3 copier, so heavy colour users will see noticeably higher click costs.

Best for: Satellite offices needing compact colour printing and duplex scanning

Setting up the Sharp MX-C304W

Set the machine's address from the panel and complete SMTP, LDAP and scan-to-folder configuration in the web interface. Run auto colour calibration from the panel after installation and after each colour toner replacement to keep proofs consistent. When adding it on macOS, prefer Sharp's PostScript driver over AirPrint if you need paper type or secure print options.

1. Unbox and prepare. Remove every piece of shipping tape and packing material, install the toner cartridge and drum unit, and load paper in the tray.
2. Join your Wi-Fi. Keep the printer close to the router for setup. Most printers only connect to the 2.4GHz band, so if your router broadcasts one merged network name you may need to split the bands temporarily. See our Wi-Fi guide if it will not join.
3. Install the setup app. Use Sharp's official app rather than a driver you found on a search result — third-party driver sites are the most common source of printer malware.
4. Add the printer. On Windows 11: Settings › Bluetooth & devices › Printers & scanners › Add device. On macOS: System Settings › Printers & Scanners › Add Printer.
5. Print a test page and run a scan if this is an all-in-one, so you find any problem now rather than when you are in a hurry.

Ink, toner and supplies

The Sharp MX-C304W uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• Sharp MX-C30 series black toner
• MX-C30 colour toners
• Waste toner container

High-yield (XL) versions almost always cost less per page if you print regularly. On third-party ink and toner, read our honest assessment first, and note that some manufacturers push firmware that rejects non-original chips.

Full specifications