Canon FAXPHONE L100 review Best monochrome laser fax copier for offices

Description

Compact Design and Build Quality

I tested the Canon FAXPHONE L100 and was immediately struck by its compact yet functional design. Measuring just 12 x 14.7 x 12 inches, it doesn’t demand much desk space, fitting neatly in my home office. Despite its small size, the build quality feels solid, with no flimsy parts that might break under frequent use. The white finish is clean and professional, blending well with other office equipment. It’s lightweight, too, at just 18.1 pounds, making it easy to move around if needed. However, the lack of dual-sided printing might be a deal-breaker for some users who handle high-volume printing.

Performance and Speed

The 19 pages per minute (ppm) print speed is a standout feature. During testing, it consistently delivered sharp and clear text at a maximum resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi. I used it for both faxing and copying, and the results were equally impressive. The 30-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) adds convenience, especially when handling multi-page documents. While the fax memory capacity of 512 sheets is more than sufficient for everyday office tasks, I did notice that it lacks duplex printing, which could have been handy for saving paper.

Usability and Features

Operating this laser fax printer is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive LCD display. The USB connectivity allowed me to easily link it with my PC, and the included software was simple to set up. The fax functionality came with a telephone handset, which I found useful for quick calls. Additionally, the 150-sheet paper capacity minimizes the need for constant refills. A downside, however, is the absence of wireless connectivity, which feels like a missed opportunity in today’s tech-driven world.

Key Benefits

• Fast printing speeds at up to 19 ppm.
• Generous fax memory for storing up to 512 sheets.
• Comes with a telephone handset, adding versatility.
• Energy-efficient, using less than 2 watts in Energy Saver mode.

Areas for Improvement

• No wireless connectivity, which limits convenience.
• Lacks duplex printing, making it less eco-friendly.
• The ADF is simplex-only, which could slow down workflows for large documents.

Competing Products

When comparing this monochrome laser printer to competitors like the Brother FAX-2840 or HP LaserJet Pro MFP M130fn, the Canon FAXPHONE L100 holds its ground in terms of print quality and speed. However, the Brother model offers wireless capabilities and duplex printing at a similar price point. The HP alternative, while slightly more expensive, includes mobile app support, making remote printing a breeze. What sets the Canon apart is its compact design and simple usability, making it an ideal choice for small offices or home setups.

Financial Value

In terms of cost-efficiency, this device delivers solid performance for its price range. The Canon Genuine Toner 128, which yields up to 2,100 pages, ensures that running costs remain manageable. While it doesn’t have the advanced features of pricier models, it offers enough functionality to justify its cost for users with basic to moderate printing and faxing needs.

For those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use office solution, this laser fax machine ticks many boxes, though it may not satisfy those needing more modern connectivity options.

Additional information