Samsung ML-1710 Monochrome Laser Printer

Company: Samsung
Product: ML-1710
Street Price: $160 USD
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2003
Reviewed By: Rob Parks

Lasers, Not Just For Removing Unsightly Hair:

Laser printers used to be for big business and the rich. Prices were astronomical, ranging from $1,000 at the low end to more than $5,000 for a high end unit. As with everything as time goes one and technology progresses, prices fall and once exotic and glamorous products become mainstream. Laser Printers are no exception to this rule.

While still priced higher than most ink or bubble jet printers, the Samsung ML-1710 monochrome laser printer fits in to many budgets. Providing 3,000+ pages on one toner, the price gap is sure to close once you have to start purchasing ink cartridges. Samsung has always taken a lead and lets be followed approach. The ML-1710 is a very stylish printer, smaller than most other laser printers in the market. Gone are the bulky, needs its own desk models. The ML-1710 measures in at a slim 13.7"x14"x7.6" (WxDxH) making it about 20-30% smaller than most other lasers and about 5-10% larger than a decent sized inkjet (HP 952C used for comparison).

Laser printers have always been known to produce the best quality print. The Samsung ML-1710 uses electrophotography which is considered "True Laser" printing. This gives much sharper and crisper text than an ink or bubble jet style of printing. Also laser printing does not smudge or bleed, even when wet. Big bonus when you have to carry that term paper three blocks across campus in a rain storm.