HP LaserJet P1505

The toner cartridge presents both design and cost issues. A small fingerhold helps you raise the top cover to access the cartridge; this feature is not labeled, nor do the manual's illustrations show explicitly how to replace the cartridge (although it does show up in a parts diagram). After you finish the 1000-page starter cartridge, a 2000-page replacement unit costs $68--or a pricey 3 cents per page.

I looked in vain for the usual printed setup instructions, but, it turns out, they're on the included CD instead. This may save paper, but there isn't even a note saying you need to run the CD to get this information--how helpful is that? Better aspects to the setup process, however, included comprehensive videos of unpacking and installation. The rest of the documentation--all electronic--is pretty detailed and thorough, too.

The LaserJet P1505 doesn't look like much, especially compared with the Samsung ML-1630--which is also $199--but it's a lot faster. I think HP cut a few too many corners in designing it, but those seeking a no-nonsense workhorse may be willing to put up with some of its shortcomings.

--Melissa Riofrio