CNN.com - Review: Lexmark tops list of best ink-jet printers

(IDG) -- Two new Lexmark ink jet printers make their mark on the chart this month: The Lexmark Z43 and Z53 Color Jetprinters jump in at first place and fourth place, respectively.

The two printers are quite similar, but both landed in the sweet spot for price and performance on our chart.

We also tested the $299 portable Canon BJC-85 and the $79 Canon S400, but both failed to make the chart -- the BJC-85 due to its relatively high price and the S400 because of lackluster print quality.

Top 10 ink-jet printers

Lexmark Z43 Color Jetprinter: The Z43 is a good deal for someone who wants high-quality output at a high speed for a very reasonable initial price.

Sharp AJ-2000: Sharp's AJ-200 offers a reasonable compromise between price and performance, and it should fit well in a small office, dorm, or family room.

HP DeskJet 932C: Strong print quality and improved performance make the 932C welcome in any office or home.

Lexmark Z53 Color Jetprinter: Although the Z53 costs $40 more than the Z43, many home and small-office users will welcome the extra speed.

Epson Stylus Color 980: The 980 makes a workhorse machine for the small office or home, though print quality could be better.

HP DeskJet 952C: The DeskJet 952C performs quite well, but you can save $50 with the DeskJet 932C if you're willing to put up with slightly slower print speeds.

Epson Stylus Color 880: This might be a good inexpensive printer for simple jobs that need to be turned out quickly, but other choices produce better graphics.

Canon S600: Somewhat slow print speeds keep the S600 out of the small office; it fits best in the home, with a moderate $199 price and reasonable ink costs.

HP DeskJet 842C: Go with the 842C if you are committed to buying an HP and can't afford to spend more than $150. However, other inexpensive printers offer better performance and similar quality.

Compaq IJ1200: Fast text performance means the IJ1200 can keep up with a small home office, and good graphics quality enables it to hold its own in the family room.