Sharp AL-1521 Toner Cartridges

Sharp AL-1521 Printer Review

Digital laser copiers come in all shapes and sizes, but they don't come much smaller than the Sharp AL-1521. It manages to output up to 15 copies per minute, yet it is small enough to share a desk with, making it ideal for small office and personal use. Some buyers might miss having multifunction features, but the low cost of Sharp AL-1521 printer toner might make them reconsider.

The AL-1521 is 18.3 inches tall due to its 50-sheet automatic document feeder, which is an upgrade compared to models like the AL-1020, with only a flatbed scanner available. Its footprint is very tidy, however, at only 20.4x18.8 inches, and its weight is only a little over 54.3 pounds, even including the Sharp AL-1521 toner supply and drum unit.

Noise levels are only around 40 dBA when copying and 7.1 dBA on standby, which is important when users are in close proximity at all times. Another upgrade for the AL-1521 from similar models is that is includes two 250-sheet paper trays instead of one, along with the single-sheet bypass tray that comes in very handy for alternative media types.

Replacing toners is generally a quick and easy process, with the minor quirk that the side panel must be open in order to open the front panel and access the Sharp AL-1521 toner cartridge. Considering the large 6,000-page yield of Sharp AL-1521 toner cartridges, and their low prices, the cost per page is low, which makes the model very appealing.

While it won't handle the daily volume of a larger, busy office, the Sharp AL-1521 would be a cost-effective fit for light-duty small office use, or as a personal copier for one user. Either way, its compact design, low price, and inexpensive supplies make it a solid value.