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Likes
- Easy to operate.
- Fast print and copy speeds.
- Sits solidly on the desk, but also relatively lightweight.
Dislikes
- Poor scan color quality.
- Limited menu functions.
- Narrow tonal range.
Conclusion
The Lexmark X342n is a mid-range, bare-bones, monochrome multifunction printer which can be hooked up to network or a single computer. The copier and fax function independently of a computer connection, and the driver and software connection for the printing an scanning functions is minimal. The MFP comes with a single software program (See Software section), which is user-friendly and effective.
The X342n is simply designed, with easy-to-load toner cartridges and paper trays. It comes with a 50-sheet auto document feeder. The control panel is intuitive and easy to use. Buttons respond well.
The printer uses a large amount of power while printing, typical of most laser printers. However, its warm-up time was significantly less than other lasers.
The printer produces decent quality text documents at relatively quick speeds (27 ppm), but attempts to print photos showed up the limited tonal range of the printer (see the Photo Performance section). Copying speeds were even quicker than print speeds, and scan times also were very fast, even at high resolutions. Scan color quality showed large color error with undersaturated colors.
On-unit menu functions were limited, with only basic settings possible. The unit is meant to be mostly a document printer, so editing options and print settings are not the main focus.
For the price tag—$399—better units can be found than the Lexmark X342n. The HP Laserjet 3050 sells for $100 less, has most of the same options except for standard network connectivity. The Brother MFC-8460N sells for the same price as the X342n and has all of the same options, but it also has expandable memory, a larger display screen, greater monthly capacity, greater scan bit depth, higher print and scan resolutions, and more connectivity options (See the Comparisons section for more details).
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