Print, scan, copy, fax + Wi-Fi = $86 shipped

See you in hell, USB cables! The Lexmark X6675 multifunction works over Wi-Fi.

(Credit: Buy.com)

Multifunction printers are insanely handy. You can make copies--color copies--without having to run to Kinko's. You can send faxes like it's 1995. You can scan documents for electronic storage. Oh, and you can print.

Indeed, the only thing better than a multifunction printer is a wireless multifunction printer, one you can stick in a corner, a closet, or wherever. Like, say, the Lexmark X6675, which Buy.com has for $85.99 shipped.

These are new units, not refurbs, and you don't have to monkey with any rebates. Nor do you need an Ethernet or USB cable (though it does support USB connections), as the X6675 works over Wi-Fi.

No mere entry-level all-in-one, the X6675 boasts some solid specs, including 25-page-per-minute black printing and 18-ppm color. It can print photos directly from a memory card and documents from a USB drive, and it can scan straight to the latter. It also features a 25-page auto document feeder for scanning and copying.

Unfortunately, the X6675 lacks an LCD for previewing photos and the like before printing. That's my only real complaint, as it reduces the unit's functionality as a standalone photo printer.

Still, you know how much I love wireless printers, and this would be pretty ideal for a home or small office. Nearly 30 users on Buy.com rated it 4.5 stars out of 5--a damn good average. The Lexmark lists for $150, so you're getting quite the deal.

[blevinsdavidlester]

Did you notice this is only a few bucks more than the cost of a black cartridge and a color cartridge ($73)?

[rickbroida]

Sad but true. That's why I tend to prefer lasers to inkjets.

[Flyboy16]

Rick:

I have two questions:

1) You said you prefer lasers to inkjets. I know the "Cost Per Page" for B&W laser is dirt cheap. But how about color laser? In general, is the Cost Per Page of color laser still cheaper than ink jet?

2) I read in CNET sometime ago when they talked about indoor air pollution caused by some laser printers. Do you think that is voodo science? Or is that something we should be concern about?

Appreciate you comments.
Thanks.

[DHXK3G]

Or even CONCERNED about?!?!

[pjcamp]

Every Lexmark printer I've ever owned or known someone who has owned has a build quality like a '76 Chevy Nova. Is this different?

[rickbroida]

Depends: I have a buddy who drove a Chevy Nova for about 10 years and said it was the best car he ever owned. :)

[imapc]

My Father-in-law had a Nova for 25 years and only got rid of it because he bought a new car for carpooling. He too said it was the best workhorse car he ever owned.

[lbytesxk]

I think he meant a 76 honda accord

[TimMyers]

It's true. My family has had a few only because they came bundled with the computer. The top - down paper feed always breaks or just sucks and will pull multiple pages at a time. I haven't really had the same problems with my HP printers.

[kastmaster]

Free KFC meal! Worth looking into! Now until May 6 at midnight. Take a look at this link Rick.

http://www.oprah.com/article/oprahshow/20090430-tows-kfc-coupon-download

[thenavid]

hey rick!! you've probably already heard of this.... but don't forget to tell the world about Oprah's chicken!!!!

Today is the last day to download the coupon for her site for a free two piece, two side, one biscuit combo from KFC!

Coupons are good through the nineteenth... but cannot use on mother's day though :-(

only catch is you have to download it by today and limit four per IP address.

TELL THE WORLD!!!

oh ya, and this is my first time ever commenting so let me also so... YOU MAKE MY WORLD COMPLETE!!! Keep the good work!

--Navid, University of Arizona

[DHXK3G]

Rick,

Since so many have mentioned it (and it is your preference), do you have any recommendations for laser jet printers? It happens to be my preference as well, so I'm thinking now might be the time to replace my B/W laserjet with a color one.

Thanks!