Canon's imageCLASS MF4690 monochrome laser multifunction device is a sleek-looking unit that offers some good copy features. But the imageCLASS MF4690 lags behind some other laser units in its $400 price range when printing.

The imageCLASS MF4690 runs at a maximum printing speed of 21 ppm in "Draft" mode, but it operates considerably slower in "Best" mode. Depending on the print settings in use, the imageCLASS MF4690 occasionally will print documents at an amazingly slow pace for a laser unit. However, image quality is very good.

This unit's copy functions are faster than expected, offering a top speed of 21 ppm. Even in "Best" mode, the imageCLASS MF4690's copier runs at a nice speed. However, the copier can only resize documents at between 50 and 200 percent of the original, which is below average. This fax function works well, operating at a maximum speed of 20 ppm. If the unit's 250-sheet paper try is empty, the imageCLASS MF4690 can store up to 512 fax pages in memory. This device's 35-sheet automatic document feeder is handy for multi-page documents.

The imageCLASS MF4690's scanner offers mixed results. The optical scan resolution is below average, but the unit's scan speeds are very good, especially in grayscale. The imageCLASS MF4690's color scan speeds are about average to slightly below average. Overall, the scan function is a disappointment because of the low resolution. The imageCLASS MF4690 contains built-in Ethernet networking capabilities, which is handy.

A major drawback (beyond to the slower-than-average print speeds) is the cost of the imageCLASS MF4690's consumables, which is higher than comparable models. However, this multifunction device has enough strengths in its key areas that it will work well in the right office setting. Just make sure your key needs match the imageCLASS MF4690's strengths.


Pros: Good copy speed, good scan speed in grayscale, sleek-looking unit, laser-quality prints
Cons: Slow print speeds, expensive consumables, some features far below average, no color capabilities

Warranty
1-year limited