Kodak ESP Office 6150
Smart Choices
Consumer Reports’ tests of 112 printers found several speedy, economical all-in-one printers for less than $150. They produce high-quality photos and text and can save space and money compared with a separate printer, scanner, and copier. There are also some fine choices in regular printers.
Here are some recent developments:
New ways to print. The HP Photosmart Premium TouchSmart Web and Lexmark Platinum Pro905 all-in-ones can download applications that let you print without a computer. HP models due this fall should let you print from almost anywhere by e-mailing your documents to the printer.
More networking. Many models offer this cost-saving option, which allows you to use one printer with multiple computers. If you can’t easily connect a cable to your router, choose a printer with wireless networking. Otherwise, wired is fine.
Save money. Kodak in particular has trumpeted its printers as cheaper to operate than models from other manufacturers. In the recent tests, the Kodak models’ printing costs were often the lowest. Kodak printers are often relatively pricey to buy, though, and to offset the price difference between the $180 Kodak ESP Office 6150 and the $100 HP Photosmart C6380, you would have to print 1,600 snapshots.
When shopping for a printer, consumers should assess all costs. An inexpensive printer can be pricey in the long run if print costs are high, so factor that in when choosing. The copying function of all-in-one printers is fine for casual use. Their scanners should be adequate for print originals.
KODAK ESP OFFICE 6150
Price: $180 Kodak has trumpeted its printers as cheaper to operate than models from other manufacturers. But their printers are often relatively pricey to buy.
THE HP PHOTOSMART PREMIUM CD055A#ABA
Price: $140An all-in-one inkjet that is very good for printing photos and text. It has a large LCD, which is helpful for cropping photos without a computer.
Consumer Reports writes columns, reviews, and ratings on cars, appliances, electronics, and other consumer goods. Previous stories can be found at consumerreports.org. 
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