I want a device that laser-prints, scans and copies. Color output is not required, but the scanner needs to be color. I don’t care about faxing, but if it does that too, fine.
So what should I get? Preferably for less than $500.
I’ve been in the printer supply/repair business for 15 years, but I’ve never noticed a color scanning feature on any of them. Never really looked for it.
Canon makes a wide range of models from really cheap to pretty elaborate. They’re print/copy/fax. I’m pretty sure they’re capable of scanning…and it seems like they’d have to scan in color. I just checked out Canon’s website…looking at the Imageclass D680. It copies, prints, faxes, but doesn’t say anything about scanning. It has an interface with the computer, so maybe you could investigate further. It’s a very good printer.
Also, any of the HP multifunction B&W lasers…once again, investigate the scanning part.
From my standpoint, as the guy who sells supplies, they’re the cheapest to buy supplies for. Any reputable remanufacturer can sell you recycled toner cartridges for around $70 (if you do this, use a local company…recycled cartridges tend to get damaged when they’re shipped…also, local companies usually have a better, more accessible warranty).
Stay away from Brother. The toner’s pretty cheap, but you have to change the drums pretty frequently and they’re really expensive. The HPs and Canons all have a one piece toner cartridge, drum included.
Thanks for the ideas, jasonh300. I’m definitely staying away from Brother. Those guys couldn’t manufacture ice properly if they had a factory at the North Pole.
I’m going to do some more research into the Canon and HP offerings.