Printers

Our latest tests found several speedy, economical all-in-one printers for less than $150. They produce high-quality photos and text and can save space and money compared with a separate printer, scanner, and copier. We also found some fine choices in regular printers. Here are some recent developments:

New ways to print

The HP Photosmart Premium TouchSmart Web and Lexmark Platinum Pro905 all-in-ones can download applications that let you print without a computer. HP models due this fall should let you print from almost anywhere by emailing your documents to the printer.

More networking

Many models offer this cost-saving option, which allows you to use one printer with multiple computers. If you can't easily connect a cable to your router, choose a printer with wireless networking. Otherwise, wired is fine. The Ratings note the type of networking that each model offers.

Save money

Kodak in particular has trumpeted its printers as cheaper to operate than models from other manufacturers. In our tests, the Kodak models' printing costs were often the lowest, but not always. Kodak printers are often relatively pricey to buy, though, and to offset the price difference between the $180 Kodak ESP Office 6150 and the $100 HP Photosmart C6380, you'd have to print 1,600 snapshots.

Here are ways you can print more cheaply with any brand of printer:

• Avoid the Arial font. It uses more ink than Times New Roman and other fonts.
• Print in draft mode or on both sides of the paper.
• Minimize the use of color ink by printing text in grayscale or "use black only" mode.
• Recycle spent cartridges for a refund or credit at an office-supply store.