Consider Brother's MFC-845CW inkjet multifunction device a "jack of all trades" that offers many interesting features typically not found in a sub-$250 unit. The MFC-845CW isn't perfect--especially with its printing speed--but it provides a lot of benefits, including all four functions you'd expect to find in a multifunction device.

First, the MFC-845CW has built-in wired and wireless networking capabilities, which is tough to find in a unit in this price range. Second, the MFC-845CW includes a wireless telephone handset. Finally, this unit offers several specialty photo-printing features. Overall, these features are surprisingly easy to use; making the MFC-845CW work with your home wireless network should be very easy as the unit automates the entire process.

The printer function runs at speeds up to 27 ppm in "Draft" mode, but you'll want to print photos in "Best" mode, which severely slows the MFC-845CW's print speed. When printing photos directly from memory cards, you'll appreciate this unit's 2.5-inch LCD screen for previewing photos and this unit's 20-sheet photo paper tray. The print quality with the MFC-845CW is about average compared to similarly priced multifunction devices. You'll receive better photo print quality with a dedicated printer, but the MFC-845CW works adequately.

The MFC-845CW's other functions are about average for a unit in this price range. The device's fax function can send documents at speeds up to 10 ppm, and it can store up to 480 pages in memory. The copier function runs at speeds up to 20 ppm (in black, 18 ppm in color), and it can reduce and enlarge original documents between 25 and 400 percent. Finally, the scanner function offers a good optical scan resolution of 600x2400 dpi.

Busier SOHO settings will probably want to look beyond the MFC-845CW for stronger features and faster printing speeds. But this multifunction device's suggested price and overall collection of features makes it a great value for the right SOHO setting.


Pros: Wireless networking, good all-around capabilities, good photo-printing features, easy to use
Cons: No high-end features, printer runs slowly in Best mode

Warranty
1-year limited