Packed with features like network capability and transparency scanning, it also has the best scanner by far, with great print quality too.

It’s one of the few to include a fax machine and the ADF could be useful, but we expected far better print quality and faster speed at this price.

Reasonably affordable to buy, but high running costs combined with poor-quality output mean you’re better off spending your money elsewhere.

The quality of this diminutive cutie is almost as good as the high-end models, but the price means a compromise on both speed and features.

With a lightning-fast scanner and high-quality photo printing, it’s only hampered by speed and running costs. CD printing and transparency scanning are bonuses, though.

Economical running costs and a great scanner make it appealing, but it’s slow and hard to use as a standalone copier.

The best home-office choice with an ADF and fax, plus good text speeds and quality. Those looking for a photo printer should look elsewhere, though.

The price is reasonable, but the interface is poor and speed and quality are below average.

The MP500 is a great all-rounder. It’s capable of excellent print quality at high speeds, plus CD printing, has an automatic duplex module and a tempting price.

One of the fastest and best-quality printers on show. The scanner isn’t perfect and there aren’t as many features as the best here, but the MP170 is hard to beat for value.

Fast, high-quality printing is now an affordable option for every business - large or small. We put nine of the best personal colour lasres to the test.