Ricoh SP C221 Toner
Aficio SP C221 Toner Cartridges

Ricoh SP C221 Printer Review

As a fairly simple color laser printer, the Ricoh Aficio SP C221 is a good choice for workgroups of a small number of users, as it can only print up to 21 pages per minute, with a first page out time of 14 seconds. Its compact footprint makes it a good fit for small office spaces, but expensive Aficio SP C221 printer toner supplies degrade its overall value.

The SP C221 series includes the SP C221N model with networking, and the SP C221SF multifunction model that also includes scanning and faxing. Either way, users get an ethernet port and network features, allowing it to be easily shared among a small office or workgroup. The included software even allows users to check the level of paper and Ricoh SP C221 toner remaining from any computer on the network, or even from the web.

The machine starts with a paper capacity of only 250 sheets, which is a good start for a small office, but might be a bit disappointing for busy users. It can be expanded to a maximum of 750 sheets, however, for heavier workloads. The unit itself measures 12.6x15.7x17.7 inches, with a weight of 50.7 pounds that also includes the Ricoh SP C221 toner supplies, so it is fairly easy to fit onto a desktop surface.

As with many laser models, its value rests on the cost of toners, and the expensive Ricoh SP C221 toner cartridges are a bit of a hindrance in that regard. Each of the four Aficio SP C221 toner cartridges can provide an estimated yield of 2,000 pages, but the cost per page remains fairly high overall.

For basic color printing, the output quality and speed of the SP C221 aren't bad for its price, and its excellent networking features are a nice bonus. Unfortunately, supply costs are a bit too high for the average small office to handle comfortably.