Lexmark X4550 Ink Cartridges

Lexmark X4550 Printer Review

The Lexmark X4550 is an all-in-one inkjet printer that offers many of the standard features found among comparable models in its price range. The main issue experts found with this device is slow output speed, printing short of its estimated maximum rates of 26 pages per minute for monochrome documents and 18 pages per minute for color. Elements such as flexible connectivity and low asking price make it an attractive device, but a subpar output and unimpressive speeds push it toward the bottom of its class of small office units.

The X4550 is one of the least expensive models available that offers the versatility of a Wi-Fi connection for wireless printing, scanning and faxing. Additional connections include memory card slots for direct photo printing from standard CompactFlash and SD cards, a USB port for wired PC connectivity and a program that will allow users to scan directly to email. However, the unit does lack certain elements such as a standard ethernet interface for networking and an automatic document feeder for continuous scanning.

Measuring at just 6x17x12 inches, the X4550 is compact enough to fit on a user's desktop. The front panel is pretty basic, lacking elements such as a keypad for quick fax dialing and a color LCD to preview images. Instead, it incorporates a small monochrome LCD for job status updates and buttons to choose between monochrome and color copying.

With its maximum monthly duty cycle of 3,000 pages and total media capacity of 100 pages, this printer is best suited to support low volumes. The X4550 is not the best for photo printing, as expert tests showed blurry and lackluster image results. Text and graphics faired only slightly better, printing with a resolution of 1200x1200 dpi using black Lexmark X4550 printer ink.

The device operates with a standard 200-page capacity black supply and 175-page color Lexmark X4550 ink cartridge, as well as an additional photo color supply that can last 135 pages. Users can also opt to purchase high-capacity replacements that can yield up to 450 pages for each color supply and 475 pages for each black Lexmark X4550 printer ink supply.

While there are a few benefits such as ample connection options, the X4550 has one too many setbacks that overcome its low price tag. Buyers who need a multifunction inkjet device that offers sharper output quality and fast speeds will need to spend a bit more, however.