Group test: what's the best mono laser printer?

5. Samsung ML-2955DW [PCA]

• Reviewed on: 20 June 12
• RRP: £90 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Samsung ML-2955DW is priced to fit the budget of small or home offices--at least initially. The toner costs over time will be dear. If you plan to print more than a few dozen pages per week, move up a hundred pounds or so in purchase price to buy a machine with cheaper consumables.

4. Epson AcuLaser M2300D

• Reviewed on: 7 March 11
• RRP: £101 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Epson AcuLaser M2300D isn't pretty, or small. It's not the easiest to install, nor is it discreet in operation. However, the performance is extremely fast and effective, while the potentially very strong paper handling facilities and automatic duplex are nice to see on a £101 printer. For text-churning, this is a swift-footed option that will rarely leave you waiting.

3. Brother HL-5380DN

• Reviewed on: 11 January 12
• RRP: £336 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Brother is a serious-minded printer for those who like their options. It’s not pretty, and its output is a little on the light side. Given the availability of the inferior but still good Kyocera Mita FS-1320D for around £160, this printer does need to be around £50 cheaper. Nonetheless, the running costs are very good, and as a reliable page churner, this model has merit.

 

2. Samsung ML-3710ND

• Reviewed on: 9 November 11
• RRP: £200 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Samsung ML-3710ND may be a physically hideous printer, but it’s very effective at its job. The expansion options are varied, and speed is very capable. Throw in the informative eco tools and you have a printer that projects genuine beauty from within.

1. Brother HL-2130

• Reviewed on: 13 June 11
• RRP: £90 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Brother HL-2130 isn’t rich in features, and its ability to print graphics is limited. However, if you’re after a straightforward text-churner, the Brother is fast and extremely effective. Given that it’s available on the street for not much more than £80, that makes it a very impressive deal.