Appearance- The Samsung SF 5100 monochrome, laser, fax printer is super cute and compact for a three-in- one device, measuring a rather slim 9x12x13 inches and weighing in at a very light 6 kilograms. Quality is definitely not compromised by the machines’ very affordable price of US$400.00. A great long-term investment for both your office and home.

Document and media handling- The paper tray handles a maximum capacity of 150 sheets input and 100 sheets output. Documents are fed at a 20 sheet capacity. Paper sizes compatible with the device are A4, Letter and Legal. Unfortunately, the machine only accepts plain paper.

Quality- The machine comes with a great added feature in the form of Samsung’s edge enhancement technology. The technology produces incredible high print quality. Prints and copies are at standard resolutions of 300x 300 dpi. The machines’ engine can reach speed of 6 copies per minute and faxes are transmitted at super speed of 6 seconds per page. The machines has enlargement option of up to 130% and reduction of as low as 50%.

Controls- Controls on the Samsung SF 5100 printer fax is generally uncomplicated. Buttons are easily legible and located on the front of the machine with a 7 language LCD display. The controls get a little more tricky when faxes need to be sent. This is most probably due to the variety of dialling options available. Transmission option one is keying in of the fax number on the numbers pad and then hitting start/enter button. If you want to use option two the number you want to use will have to previously dialled. All that’s then required is the pressing of the one touch dial key. Speed dialling is option three. The option is accessible when the number has been added to speed dialling list.

Pro’s- When comparing pro’s to con’s the machine is an absolute winner, as very few flaws can be identified. Copies are produced at a mere 6 second as a result of the devices’ document scanning system. Faxes are also sent chop-chop. Reliability reigns supreme with this machine with added benefits such as auto redial, priority transmission and transmission reporting.

Con’s- The machines’ paper trays are a bit of a problem. The input tray is very short and narrow and the output tray’s design flaw impacts the way paper exists. Sent and received pages are not separated and are all sent to a paper tray at the bottom of the device. Another paper tray is present at the top of the machine. Luckily this tray causes no to few problems. Unconventional paper sizes or types can sometimes cause paper flow problems.

Money, money, money- Let’s cut to the chase. Money makes the world go round and if you can save some you will definitely not let the chance pass you buy. The printer fax itself is very inexpensive at US$400. Now considering the expense saved on toner when comparing laser to inkjet, you will already have the printers’ investment price back in your pocket. The device comes with wonderful toner and power saving features which will make even environmental organisations smile not to mention stretching your budget.

Toner – Samsung SF 5100 Printer Toner will be included with your in store or online purchase of the device. You can expect the Toner Cartridge to last between 8-12 months depending on the amount and quality of prints required. In terms of 5% coverage you can expect a yield of 2500 pages and for lower coverage a 3000 page yield. Toner prices range between US$62.00 and US$110, a bargain considering it’s life span. Samsung Toner Cartridge is trusted worldwide.