Lexmark X7550 Ink Cartridges

Lexmark X7550 Printer Review

The Lexmark X7550 is an example of an all-in-one device that bundles together flexible print, scan, copy and fax features, but meets lower performance standards than dedicated single-function units. Output, for instance, is far behind the average for its class of inkjet device with experts testing speeds to print much slower than the estimated maximum of 30 pages per minute. While the X7550 does benefit from easy-to-use features and flexible connectivity, it can't be recommended for small offices on the basis that its output speeds and quality aren't up to par compared to models in its price range.

One of the X7550's positive attributes is its inclusion of many of the popular office-centric multifunction features, including automatic double-sided printing and copying, a built-in ethernet interface that can provide networking for the office and a port that supports direct printing from and scanning to flash drives. The unit also benefits from a 2.4-inch color display that can be used in tandem with the adjacent four-way pad to navigate menus and settings options. A minimal footprint and a size of only 7x17x13 inches may also attract buyers who need a compact device for their office.

The X7550's paper tray can only hold a maximum of 100 pages, which isn't impressive when considering other models line its price range like the Canon PIXMA MX700 offer two different input options than can support up to 300 pages. The fax machine and scanner also suffer from the unit's lack of a dedicated automatic document feeder, which is a useful feature for larger, unattended jobs.

Expert tests revealed that this unit performed poorly on its output tests, particularly for photos, which printed with a faded tinge and a lackluster resolution of 4800x1200 dpi using color Lexmark X7550 printer ink. Text documents also printed below par, while the unit's copier would fail to duplicate an original document if the paper wasn't fed correctly.

The unit operates with a standard 210-sheet capacity tricolor supply and a 220-sheet black Lexmark X7550 printer ink cartridge. Users can replace these with high-capacity options that can last up to 500 pages for both the color and black Lexmark X7550 ink cartridges. Users also have the option to add an additional photo color supply that has a yield of 500 pages.

The X7550 runs into a number of problems that aren't made up for by its positive attributes like wireless networking, support for flash drives and an easy-to-use control panel. Experts cite that across the board its output tests are disappointing, which may lead buyers to consider higher-end multifunction units or quality single-function inkjet devices.