Lexmark Optra S 1855 Toner Cartridges

Lexmark 1855 Printer Review

The Lexmark Optra S 1855 offers a mixed bag of features, but for the most part its design and capabilities make the device a good addition to its class of single-function laser printers. One of the main concerns with the 1855 is its slow output speeds, printing at a disappointing 9 pages per minute in Best mode and 18 pages per minute in Fast mode. With the exception of its output speeds and simple control tools, however, this machine does have a lot to offer small workgroups in regard to its professional-quality printing and long-lasting Optra S 1855 printer toner.

Since it only offers one function, the 1855's hefty weight of 41 pounds and size of 16x19x13 inches make it one of the bulkier options in its class. The unit's flexible paper handling contributes to this size, providing two input trays that can hold a combined maximum media capacity of 350 pages. These trays will support a range of media sizes from a minimum of 4x9 inches to a maximum of 8.5x14 inches. An optional duplex feature can be added if users want to be able to print double sided on media to conserve supplies.

The printer's build opts for simplicity over flexibility, providing a monochrome LCD and a handful of buttons to perform tasks like canceling a print job, turning the unit on and navigating menus. Users with a Windows or Mac computer will be able to install its software suite and drivers to access more management tools, as well as connect straight to the 1855 and print with its parallel port. This basic connectivity option may not cut it for workgroups, but the unit does have an optional ethernet interface that will provide a wired connection to a shared network.

When printing, users will have the choice to select between printing in 1200 Image Quality mode or Toner Save mode, the former offering an enhanced output quality and the latter the opportunity to reduce Lexmark 1855 toner use. User should opt for the higher-quality mode for important business projects, since this will enable it to print with sharp detail and a maximum resolution of 1200x1200 dpi using black Optra S 1855 toner.

When it comes to toners and replacing them, users have a few options. The first is its standard Lexmark 1855 toner cartridge, which has a decent yield of approximately 7,500 pages. Users with more demanding volumes can opt for the high-capacity supply that has a maximum yield of 17,600 pages. Those choosing the larger Lexmark 1855 toner cartridge also have the ability to purchase it in a remanufactured supply, which is less expensive than the OEM option.

While it is a bit bulky, has slower output speeds than other models in its price range, and doesn't offer much accessibility or control tools on its front panel, the 1855 is successful in providing a solution for high-quality monochrome printing. The unit also has some of the highest capacity supplies among other single-function devices and provides users the option of ethernet networking.