Xerox 8700 Ink
ColorQube 8700 Ink Sticks

Xerox 8700 Printer Review

The cost savings and waste-free design of solid ink are one of the most innovative technologies in printer ink in recent years. This type of printer has often been limited to larger formats, however. With the Xerox ColorQube 8700, smaller offices can finally get the same benefits and cost savings from the Xerox 8700 ink.

For those unfamiliar with the technology, ColorQube 8700 ink sticks are a solid ink block that is somewhat waxy in consistency. This block is inserted into the machine and melted to be used as printer ink. This allows the entirety of the Xerox 8700 ink sticks to be melted and consumed, with no need for a cartridge, thus eliminating much of the waste of other designs, though the price of Xerox 8700 ink can be a bit higher than the average for a comparable laser.

Surprisingly, this isn't necessarily the best feature of the 8700, however, as it is very compact in its design, and quite a fast and efficient machine. The idea of a "cube" is very fitting, considering the nearly square dimensions of 23.8 inches high, 24.2 inches wide, and 23.4 inches deep. Despite its space-saving form factor, it doesn't disappoint on features. It can copy, scan, email, and fax, as well as print at up to 44 pages per minute. This kind of speed is rare in such a small and affordable model, so those with small office spaces should take notice.

The reduced waste and extra efficiency of ColorQube 8700 ink is certainly a selling point, but the fact that it is not as cost-effective as a disadvantage. Still, small office buyers will likely be drawn to the Xerox 8700 for its very quick printing speeds and the number of excellent features available in a small cube-shaped device that won't be too imposing.