HP Color LaserJet 2605dtn - Expert Reviews

Review summary: At $700 (as of 10/6/2006), the HP Color LaserJet 2605dtn costs $300 more than the similar-looking 2600n we reviewed in December 2005, but it comes fully loaded with features.

Pros: High-quality color printing ; Good paper handling, including duplexer

Cons: Slow print speeds ; High costs per page

Verdict: The toner cartridges include the only replaceable parts of the print mechanism, keeping maintenance simple. They slide easily into individual slots behind the printer's fold-down front door. The 2605dtn comes with full-capacity cartridges, though ...

Pros: The HP Color LaserJet 2605dtn shows excellent color and monochrome print quality, has a built-in photo card reader and duplexer, and is reasonably priced.

Cons: The menu system is difficult to navigate, paper input is limited to 500 sheets, and software could be more small-office friendly.

Verdict: The HP 2605dtn has some flaws, but it prints color cheaply and well enough for small offices, individuals, and small corporate workgroups.

Review summary: HP's Color LaserJet 2605dtn printer is the missing link between all-in-one inkjet photo printers and budget color laser printers and offers the best of both species. Like photo all-in-ones, it has built-in photo card readers and will print photos ...

Pros: Impressive output quality. Built-in duplexer. Network connection. Prints directly from memory cards.

Cons: Slow. Real slow.

Verdict: The HP Color LaserJet 2605dtn delivers high-quality output and excellent paper handling, but you'd better not be in a hurry to print.