Sharp AL-1530CS Toner Cartridges

Sharp AL-1530CS Printer Review

Sharp has an entire line of affordable, compact digital laser copiers, but the Sharp AL-1530CS takes things a few steps further with multifunction features such as printing and scanning as well. It can output as many as 15 pages per minute, and it is compact enough for small office spaces. It uses the same design for Sharp AL-1530CS printer toner as other models in its line, keeping prices more reasonable.

Sometimes referred to as the AL-1530, the CS denotes its copying and scanning features. The model finds a nice middle ground among its lineup, with the addition of faster speeds and multifunction features from the most basic AL-1215 model, but without the automatic document feeder and larger paper capacity of the more expensive models. As a result, it should appeal mainly to users who plan to do a small volume of copying and scanning, who don't want to pay extra for more capacity.

The AL-1530CS has a single 250-sheet paper tray and a single-sheet bypass tray for feeding extra media one at a time. It measures 11.6x20.4x18.2 inches, with a weight of only 35.3 pounds (including Sharp AL-1530CS toner and drum) that makes it easy to move around.

The Toner Save mode can help reduce the use of toners by as much as 10%, with only a slight reduction in quality. With a yield of up to 6,000 pages, Sharp AL-1530CS toner cartridges can last a very long time in small office environments. Some third-party sellers also offer compatible Sharp AL-1530CS toner cartridges for less than OEM prices.

The Sharp AL-1530CS makes just the right tradeoffs for its compact size and low purchase price. While the lack of an automatic document feeder and extra paper capacity are a bit of a drawback, most buyers will find the unit to be an excellent value for the price.