Brother's MFC-9420CN color laser multifunction device offers a comparatively low starting price and a nice collection of features. Its overall speed is a bit of a disappointment, especially when compared to monochrome laser devices, but the MFC-9420CN is a good choice for those needing color laser capabilities.

The printer and copier in this device run at speeds up to 31 ppm in black "Draft" mode. Color prints in "Best" mode are much, much slower. The fax unit runs at a standard 20 ppm, and the MFC-9420CN can store up to 400 pages in memory if the 250-sheet paper tray is empty.

We appreciated the MFC-9420CN's list of additional handy features. For instance, the MFC-9420CN can scan documents directly to e-mail. The copier and fax can run as standalone units or through a computer. The unit's 35-page automatic document feeder works well for faxing and copying multiple-page documents.

The MFC-9420CN's biggest flaw is its noise level while operating. If you work in a small, enclosed office, this noise might be overwhelming. This unit's overall print quality lags slightly behind other low-priced color laser units in the sharpness of its graphics and photos. Also, Brother's replacement parts, including toner cartridges and belts, seem to be more expensive than other companies' units. (One way Brother can keep the starting price low is by shipping "starter" toner cartridges, which don't last very long, for example.)

Finally, if you're looking for a small unit to place on your desk, the MFC-9420CN isn't it. This device weighs about 77 pounds, so you won't want to move it very often. Then again, heavy units are standard for color laser multifunction devices. If you can live with the issues related to this unit and still want a color laser device, the MFC-9420CN has enough good features to make it an OK choice for the right SOHO environment.


Pros: Good feature list, low starting price for color laser, versatile unit
Cons: Very noisy operation, consumables are expensive, very heavy unit, no standout features

Warranty
1-year limited