Not every student needs a printer nowadays, but if you do, an all-in-one, or multifunction, model can be the perfect choice, especially if you’ll be living in cramped quarters come September. It saves space by combining three or four devices into one. (By definition, an all-in-one printer takes the place of a printer and a scanner, as well as providing photocopier and, sometimes, fax functions.) Most students won’t care much about faxing, but the other three functions can come in mighty handy come study crunch-time. Plus, prices on these models have been dropping rapidly of late, making these multifunction printers (also often called “MFPs”) more attractive to those on scholastic (read: limited) budgets. As a matter of fact, none of the printers here will cost you more than $100.
We looked at six all-in-one models based on inkjet technology, which provides the ability to print in black-and-white or color. They not only provide the expected print functionality, but they also let you pack away your space-hogging scanner, and they can serve in a pinch when you need the occasional photocopy, too. (Bear in mind, though, that no MFP is a great substitute for a real photocopier if you’re copying more than a few pages. So don’t expect to rely on the copy function too heavily.) One thing to note, however: If you know you’ll need to print lots of long monochrome documents (such as lengthy research papers that are light on graphics), an inexpensive laser printer is going to be a better choice for you. It won’t be able to print in color, but the print speeds will be a lot faster, and the cost per page will be a lot lower.
Limitations aside, though, you don’t have to empty your (or your parents’) bank account to bring one of these models home, and that’s what matters most. Indeed, some of these models are so inexpensive that, if you can spare the space, you might want to buy one of these and a laser. For example, you can pick up the Epson Stylus NX515 for just around $50. It features excellent print quality and versatile connectivity, and it’s super-easy to operate. If you’re looking for a higher-end unit, the HP Photosmart Plus features a cool touch-screen LCD, inexpensive consumables, and outstanding photo-print quality. Finally, if you’re looking to make color prints on the cheap (say, of artwork, or of digital images for a photography course), take a look at the Kodak ESP 3250, which uses relatively inexpensive ink and media to produce excellent-quality photos.
Whatever your scholastic needs are, check out all of our recommendations. You’re very likely to find one that fits you.
Via: computershopper.com