Lexmark X5650

With print, scan, copy and fax functions, Lexmark’s X5650 certainly isn’t lacking for features. Setup didn’t cause any problems, although it was disappointing to have to finish off the printer assembly by sticking the English labels on the buttons; Lexmark includes labels for a wide range of languages.

The X5650 looks more functional than stylish, but Lexmark has done a good job keeping it compact. Sat on the top is an ADF (auto-document feeder), which makes faxing and copying multiple documents a snip, although the feeder can only hold 25 pages at a time. A multi-format card reader sits just to the left of the large control panel and is accompanied by a USB port, so it’s possible to print without a PC.

Lexmark has made a big song and dance about its commitment to Wifi over the past couple of years, so it was something of a surprise to find the X5650 doesn’t support wireless networking. Instead, you’re left with a simple USB connection.

During testing, the X5650 didn’t astound us with its speed, taking just over one minute 30 seconds to print a 6x4in photo. Standard-quality text documents were produced at a rate of around 5ppm (pages per minute). Freshly printed pages smudged very easily on cheap paper; switching to more expensive Lexmark stock solved this problem.

The X5650 produced some surprisingly good photo prints with rich, deep colours. Those with an eye for detail will want to look elsewhere, but for the majority of home users the prints will be perfectly adequate.

Loaded with features and capable of decent prints, the X5650 certainly justifies its price tag. But shop around: you should be able to find it for under £60, which is a real bargain.

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