Canon BJC-85

For simple text printing, the BJC-85 proved much more economical. The original full-size mono cartridge gives you a reasonable 2.4p per page at five per cent coverage, and one ink tank should do about 170 pages. The quality isn't bad either, being sharper and blacker than the Epson 750 (reviewed issue 56, p128) and Canon BJC-8200, although it was a bit uneven with occasional scratchiness. Averaging 2.7ppm, it's also reasonably quick when compared to the Epson 750's 1.7ppm.

There's no doubt this is the most impressive portable on the market, but its appeal is limited and not worth a second look unless you really need a portable printer. For less money you can choose from a number of desktop printers that would offer superior performance and a more economical cartridge system.

Author: Ben Hardwidge