Distinctly average (Lexmark X2470)

Member Name: philhaz

Product:	Lexmark X2470
Date:	20/05/09 (11 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Very cheap, rugged

Disadvantages: Software issues, all-in-one cartridge

I picked this up as an ex-display bargain when leaving home for uni, and two years later it's still going strong. The scanning and printing quality is fine for everyday use, but not great. Anyone into their photography will probably want to look elsewhere if you plan on using this to print pictures.

I have a had a couple of problems using this with my Vista laptop, which mainly seem to be software-related. After uninstalling the drivers and reconnecting it will invariably come back to life - but it's a hassle that I could do without.

Other than that, the reliabilty of the hardware seems fine. It has been pretty roughly treated (carted backwards and forwards between moves) and has yet to fail on me.

Ink seems to last an eternity, but then again I should hope so at £25 per cartridge! It's cheaper to just ditch the printer (making sure you recycle :P) and pick up a new one. Like I said, mine was ex-display, and so I managed to blag an extra cartridge for free. When that runs out, I certainly won't be buying another. It's also worth noting that the cartridge is an all-in-one unit, so even if only one colour is empty, you have to chuck the whole lot. Poor show, Lexmark.

Summary: If you want something cheap and cheerful to see you through with basic tasks, this is it!