HP OfficeJet G85

As an all-in-one solution, the OfficeJet G85 is certainly an attractive alternative to separate components. Print quality is excellent, giving good results in text and graphics as well as superb photo quality printing - certainly comparable to the £329 PhotoSmart 1100. Fax functions and superb copying all add to the package with the only real letdown being below-standard scanning quality. The AcerScan Prisa 620UT (see Labs, issue 66, p124) at £109 would provide better results if scanning was your primary requirement.

Overall though, the OfficeJet G85 produces impressive results for a reasonable outlay, and if scan quality isn't high on your agenda it will certainly give you the same quality as separate units adding up to roughly the same cost, while also saving on desk space. You'll also get approximately 830 pages out of the black cartridge and 450 from the colour, making it cheap to run. On the downside, you'll need the extra print server to get full network connectivity.

HP has managed to produce a well-priced all-in-one solution that doesn't sacrifice on print quality or features, and should slot perfectly into the average office environment.

Author: Gareth Ogden