Lexmark X75

While modern PCs let you connect any number of peripherals, it doesn't take long before you run into limitations, such as the number of free ports available, or the amount of desk space required.

A solution to both, Lexmark's latest all-in-one provides a scanner, printer and photocopier in a single unit.

The X75 still has a relatively large footprint but, compared to other all-in-ones, it's quite compact. Moreover, having everything in one place makes things easy to set up.

Pop in the ink cartridges, attach the USB and power cables, install the software and you're away. Construction isn't the most solid we've seen though, and the plug-in power module rattles around.

The main functions are printing, copying and scanning. The X75 is fine in print mode but not exactly speedy. Tests with text pages at Normal quality came out at 4ppm (pages per minute) and mixing in graphics dropped this to 2ppm.

Overall results were good, with just some fine lines on blocks of colour. The only real letdown came with A4 photos: printing one took 10 minutes and results weren't on a par with a decent standalone inkjet.

The X75 isn't a bad scanner or copier, although annoyingly you can't use the latter unless the PC is working. Again most tests came out well, if a little grainy, but the scanner can hit problems with 3D objects.

If you've got a modem, the X75 can also act as an easy-to-use fax machine.

The X75 is no match for good quality separates, but at £129 this isn't a bad option for a home office. It's also easy to use, and that's something that can't be sniffed at.

Specifications:

• Resolutions: print 2,400 x 1,200dpi, scan 600 x 1,200dpi, 48bit
• Thermal inkjet (dual head)
• CIS scanning technology
• Weight: 4.6kg
• Dimensions: 460 x 337 x 168mm (w x d x h)
• Supports Windows 98 & Mac OS 9.2 upwards
• Control Centre, Photo Editor, Faxtools and Abbyy Finereader Sprint
• USB2 connection.

Price: £129 (£109.78 ex VAT)
Contact: Lexmark 0870 444 0044
www.lexmark.co.uk