If you're looking for a desktop fax machine with a good collection of handy, run-of-the-mill fax features, the KX-FG6550 from Panasonic isn't going to meet your needs. If you're looking for a fax machine that functions as a cordless telephone system with an answering machine, the KX-FG6550 might be for you, if you can overlook its below-average fax performance.

The KX-FG6550 uses thermal-transfer printing, which is less than ideal. The device can print only in black, and its print quality for anything but text is subpar. The machine can print up to 300 pages per thermal ribbon roll, and the rolls cost $10-$15 apiece, meaning the replacement rolls can add up quickly in a busy faxing environment.

Transmission speeds with this fax machine are less than ideal, measuring a maximum of four pages per minute. The KX-FG6550 contains only a 30-sheet paper tray, meaning the unit will run out of paper quickly if you receive a lot of faxes. More than that, the KX-FG6550 has only 350 KB of memory (about 0.35 MB), which Panasonic says will hold about 28 fax pages when the paper tray is empty, but, realistically, will probably hold 15-20 pages.

The KX-FG6550's cordless phone system and digital answering machine combination might be the unit's best feature, but its audio quality is lacking. You can connect up to three cordless handsets on a 5.8GHz frequency wit this unit, but that might not be enough to compensate for the below-average fax functions.

Finally, you'll find only a six-month warranty with the KX-FG6550, which is less than optimal. With nearly all other fax machines in the $200 price range carrying far better features, it's tough to recommend the KX-FG6550, unless you really need a fax/cordless phone system combination, and you receive very few faxes.


Pros: Cordless phone system with three handsets and digital answering machine
Cons: Poor feature set at this price range, slow transmission speeds, thermal-transfer printing is less than ideal, won't work in busy offices

Warranty
6-month limited