Lexmark X646 Toner Cartridges

Lexmark X646 Printer Review

Small offices that have frequent daily printing needs will benefit from the Lexmark X646, with its feature-rich design and quick maximum output speeds of 50 pages per minute. This device is the base model in a series of well-received monochrome laser printers, but the additional X646E, X646DTE and X646EF models go further to bundle a larger media capacity and automatic double-sided printing. Those that are drawn to the X646 because it has a lower price tag than the other models will still enjoy its flexible all-in-one print, scan, copy and fax capabilities and high-capacity toners.

A number of factors allow this machine to support large volumes, like the option to upgrade the built-in RAM of 256 MB to a maximum of 640 MB, and its ability to handle a total monthly duty cycle of 250,000 pages. This heavy-duty printer also has the flexibility to expand from a standard media capacity of 600 pages to a maximum of 3,100 pages. In addition, the X646 includes a dedicated 50-sheet automatic document feeder for scanning or faxing large jobs.

Since its weight of 180 pounds and size of 57x27x29 inches make this small office device too bulky to fit on a desktop, it will need to be used in a large shared space. This doesn't mean users won't be able to personalize it, however, since the X646 provides a color touchscreen panel that enables customization, access to popular functions and secure printing. Users can use this icon-based interface to scan or fax documents directly to email, as well select the print mode and the number of copies needed for a project.

The X646 includes a USB port for PC connectivity and a front USB connection for direct printing to or scanning from a flash drive,. The machine is best when printing or copying monochrome text and graphics, achieving a maximum resolution of 1200x1200 dpi using black Lexmark X646 printer toner that is good enough for internal projects.

The device comes with a starter black Lexmark X646 toner cartridge that can yield a decent 10,000 pages before needing to be replaced. Users can choose between the standard replacement or a high-capacity Lexmark X646 toner cartridge that can last for around 21,000 pages. Those with a more productive office can opt for the extra high-capacity supplies that yield approximately 32,000 pages.

With options to automatically duplex and other features like faxing in its more expensive models, buyers may find the X646 too basic for their busy small office. For a low price tag, however, the base model does provide a range of features from an easy-to-use display interface to upgradable media handling that will that will allow users to increase their workflow without overspending.