Lexmark X5320 Ink Cartridges

Lexmark X5320 Printer Review

While it offers color copying, printing, scanning and faxing capabilities for a low cost, the Lexmark X5320 isn't versatile enough to earn top marks among its class of home office inkjet devices. One feature that holds the X5320 back is its slow output speeds, printing monochrome documents at a maximum of 18 pages per minute and color projects in as fast as 15 pages per minute. Since the unit also suffers from pricey Lexmark X5320 printer ink and limited paper handling, it is hard to recommend for home offices that have more than low-volume needs.

Despite its 4-in-1 design, the X5320 is a surprisingly compact device with a size of 11x17x20 inches that will make it a good desktop companion for a user's computer. Such a small build means the device leaves out a few standard multifunction features, such as an automatic document feeder for faxing and scanning large jobs, double-sided printing to conserve media, or network connectivity. To make up for this, the unit does incorporate useful connectivity for homes such as a front port that supports printing straight from PictBridge-compatible cameras and flash drives.

Located on the front of the X5320 is a control panel with enough buttons and tools to enable standalone copying and faxing, including a monochrome LCD and 4-way pad to navigate menus and settings, a key to select the number of copies and a number pad to store speed dials. Users will also be able to monitor a document's progress and stay updated on supply levels. Paper will need to be restocked frequently for users with higher work volumes since the unit only has one 100-sheet capacity tray.

One of this unit's most appealing features is its output quality, which is sharper and more detailed than many comparable models in its price range with a maximum resolution of 4800x1200 dpi using Lexmark X5320 ink cartridges. To improve the quality of images users have the option to add a photo color supply along with the standard tricolor and black Lexmark X5320 ink cartridges. Low yield of only 135 pages for the photo color printer ink and around 150 pages for the black and tricolor supplies mean this unit is suited for light-duty use, however.

When measuring the X5320's pros and cons, the unit's positive attributes make up for its slow output speeds and expensive supplies. Considering its low price tag, this inkjet printer's all-in-one capabilities, sharp output and wireless connectivity make it a bargain among similar home office units.