Printout quality This is an important test parameter, The tests include: reproducing a thin line at an angle of |
At PCQ Labs, we tested six inkjet printers under Rs
16,000. To avoid comparing Rs 7,000 printer (the cheapest in the shootout) with a Rs
16,000 one, we divided the printers into two categories: those under Rs 10,000, and those
over Rs 10,000 and under Rs 16,000. There were four printers in the first category and two
in the second.
All the printers were tested on a P II system with 64 MB
RAM and Win 98. We used a standalone machine with Office 97, CorelDRAW 8, and Photoshop 5.
Word processing tests were done using Word 97, and
CorelDRAW 8 was used for graphics test. All speed tests were timed thrice and their
average taken. If the difference between any of the two readings was more than 10 percent,
the test was repeated. We carried out all the tests in every printer resolution mode
separately, testing the printer’s efficiency and speed in each mode. We also carried
out a number of quality tests by printing graphics on plain and inkjet papers, as
specified by the vendor.
We then calculated the page per minute (ppm) capability of
each printer, and compared the quality of the printouts in different modes. The
printer’s features and price were further added to find out the one that offered best
value to you.
Sara Hassan and Sougata Das
at PCQ Labs Tests
color="#FFFFFF">Tests and weightages | |
color="#000000">Print speeds
Time
Note: Timings for text prints arefor default or standard mode, while those for graphics and text plus graphics are for the best quality available on normal paper. Timings for text prints are for default or standard mode, while those for graphics and text plus graphics are for the best quality available on normal paper. |
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color="#000000">Print quality
Quality
Note : Qualitative analysis wasdone on printouts taken at the best mode the printer could print in. |
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color="#000000">Price and features
color="#000000">Price of the printer |
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face="Arial" size="2">Click here to see printers at a glance and the results . |