Is it time for you to graduate from that cheap ink-jet printer? We tracked down four of the best printer-scanner-copiers for less than $1,000. Our picks include two desktop printers and two standalone business-class models.
| 1. HP Officejet Pro 8500 A909 | 2. Dell 1235cn Multifunction Laser Printer | 3. Brother MFC-9840CDW | 4. Xerox Phaser 6180MFP/D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WHY WE LIKE IT | This ink-jet printer uses high-capacity cartridges, which reduce ink costs. Alas, it doesn't offer wireless connectivity or double-sided printing. | This is the most affordable color laser all-in-one we found. It offers high-resolution printing (2,400 x 600 dots per inch) but no wireless option or double-sided printing. | This laser printer is loaded with features: It prints and scans double sided, connects to your office network wirelessly, and has a 50-sheet automatic feed. | Xerox's laser all-in-one wins high marks for speed. It offers double-sided printing and scanning, and wireless capability is available for an additional $219. |
| MAXIMUM PRINT SPEED(PAGES PER MINUTE) | 19 ppm for black ink; 19 ppm for color | 17 ppm for black ink; 4 ppm for color | 21 ppm for black ink; 21 ppm for color | 31 ppm for black ink; 20 ppm for color |
| RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM MONTHLY PRINT LOAD | 1,250 pages | 900 pages | 3,000 pages | 5,000 pages |
| PRICE | $229 | $399 | $699 | $949 |
| INK COST, 2,000 PAGES* | $93 | $195 | $174 | $174 |
*Ink cost assumes 1,000 color pages and 1,000 black-and-white pages.