Lexmark MS315 Toner Cartridges

Lexmark MS315 Printer Review

With features like automatic duplexing and networking, the Lexmark MS315 laser printer is designed for serious office work, with speeds of up to 37 pages per minute. Its control panel has a larger color display than the similar MS312 model, but it suffers from the same problem of expensive Lexmark MS315 printer toner.

Also referenced as the MS315dn, the model includes automatic duplexing for two-sided printing, and an ethernet port for sharing on an office network. It also includes both parallel and USB connections, though these aren't likely to see as much use. The machine weighs about 31.2 pounds, and measures just 15x10.3x15.7 inches, so it is suitable for desktop use, but a wheeled printer stand is available as an option as well.

While the majority of users won't control the machine from the front panel often, the larger 2.4-inch color display is a nice upgrade from similar models in its lineup. Users can enable features like duplexing and Eco mode, the latter of which conserves energy and Lexmark MS315 toner, as well as saves on paper usage. The device comes with a 250-sheet main paper drawer and a 50-sheet multipurpose feeder for alternative media types. Users can also add a 250 or 500-sheet tray for additional paper capacity.

Although the machine itself is affordable, replacing toners is a different story. Users have the choice of standard Lexmark MS315 toner cartridges with a yield of 1,500 pages, or larger supplies with 5,000 and 10,000 pages. Unfortunately, all three Lexmark MS315 toner cartridge options are fairly expensive.

The speed and output quality of the MS315 are both impressive, and its compact design is appealing for smaller office spaces. While buyers will initially be drawn to its low upfront price, the high cost of supplies will make it an expensive machine to operate, eating up the early savings quickly.