Kyocera FS-5900C-N

We came close to achieving the quoted print speeds for 600dpi with a 23-page combination of large photographs, graphics and heavy formatting delivered at 3.5ppm, while a simple five-page report with a few colour charts and graphs was completed at 4.3ppm. Text presented no problems with a 15-page report completed in 57 seconds at 16ppm. The higher resolution requires some patience though as the 23-page test took nearly 28 minutes, while the five-page report took more than six minutes.

Overall, the FS-5900C-N appears to be extremely good value, but a closer comparison with the competition shows this is only skin deep. HP's Colour LaserJet DN may only offer a true 600dpi resolution and cost nearly £1,000 more, but you do get a simulated 2,400dpi, very low printing costs, more memory, a duplex unit and a greater paper capacity. Add in the substantially better print quality on all weights of paper and you have a compelling argument for spending the extra cash.

Author: Dave Mitchell