Xerox Phaser 6120n

The Xerox Phaser 6120n is priced low at $499, and delivers better graphics quality than the very similar Konica Minolta MagiColor 2450, which costs $200 more. Like the 2450, the 6120n supports PCL and PostScript. The two models' speeds were nearly identical.

In our tests the 6120n printed text quickly at 14.7 ppm. However, its color graphics speed was a disappointing 1.6 ppm.

Print quality was also a mixed bag. Text was very heavy, with blotchy edges. Color graphics displayed appealing contrast and accurate color, though they were marred by some fine banding. On glossy paper photos appeared somewhat grainy and hazy; however, they remained fairly attractive overall.

The 6120n has a 200-sheet paper tray; you can add a second 500-sheet tray for $299, though it handles only letter-size paper--you have to load envelopes and legal-size paper in the main tray. An optional duplexer will cost you $399.

Xerox rates the life of the 6120n's imaging drum more conservatively than Konica Minolta does for that of the 2450, which contributes to a higher estimated cost per page, for the 6120n, of 2.5 cents for black and 12.7 cents for color.

Installation was quick and easy, thanks in part to Xerox's thorough documentation. The control panel has a two-line LCD for setting networking and paper-handling options.

Graphics quality is better than that of most other color lasers, but slow graphics printing and mixed print quality overall limit the appeal of this low-priced model.

Paul Jasper