Mono Laser Printer Alternatives to the HP LaserJet Series.

In the law office world, the monochrome laser printer is the workhorse. When most lawyers and law firm staff think of laser printers, they think of HP's venerable LaserJet series. It is said that no one ever got fired for buying (or recommending) an HP LaserJet printer. As solid and dependable as LaserJets are, they are not always the best choice for every situation. There are alternatives in the monochrome laser segment that may do more and cost less, or may just be a better fit for your firm's needs. A recent comparison review by PC Magazine highlights some of the alternate choices in the monochrome laser marketplace. The review focused on cost-per-page, but each of the four printers and all-in-ones tested received Editors Choice awards. Included in the review are single-functions printers from Samsung and Lexmark and two all-in-one (AIO) printers from AIO specialist Brother. The review also noted that more expensive laser printers often have a much lower cost-per-page, so it makes sense to buy a more expensive printer for high-volume printing needs. One of the AIO's recommended by PC Magazine is the bargain-priced Brother MFC-7840W that lists for $300, but when on sale can go for as low as $200. It isn't a heavy-duty workhorse for high-volume printing, but it makes an ideal home office, satellite office, or personal printer/scanner/copier/fax machine. For several years I have used its predecessor, the MFC-7820N, as my do-it-all machine in my home-based appellate practice. When you shop for a monochrome laser printer, don't think that an HP LaserJet is your only choice. While in many cases it will still be the best choice, that isn't as true as it was a decade or more ago. Look at alternatives that may be a better fit for your needs.