A hybrid device gives you color capabilities for only slightly more than the cost of a monochrome machine. The benefits are clear...but what about the risks?

By Jeffrey A. Smith

First-page-out times for hybrid copier/printers can be dramatically different for color and monochrome output, as well. Typically, first-page times for Segment 3 (35-ppm range) hybrids are in the six-second range for monochrome but in the 10-second + range for color output.

Consumers should always check to make sure the first-page and multi-page speed ratings being quoted are for color production. And we always recommend testing any product in-house before you buy. All copier/printer dealers offer free trials, so there is no reason not to take advantage and put the product to the test.