For monochrome printing, however, the Samsung CLP-550 performed admirably. In our tests, the CLP-550 pumped out 13.8 pages per minute (ppm) for text. Most interestingly, it managed to improve its score with monochrome graphics: 14.7ppm. These scores put the CLP-550 among the top four in our color laser chart in terms of noncolor print speed. Unfortunately, the Samsung's color print scores did not live up to its monochrome performance, with just a little above-average score: 4.4ppm for both text and graphics.
The Samsung's print quality was also a mixed bag and rather disappointing. While its monochrome text looked crisp, the rest of the print quality registered below our expectations. The black-and-white graphics suffered from bad gradient and inconstant shading and were too high in contrast. The color text looked hairy, with many colors mismatched from the original. Finally, the color graphics also suffered from too much contrast, even though the color match was better than in text.
The printer was tested by CNET Labs at the factory default settings, which you can adjust to improve the output and performance. Learn more about how CNET Labs tests printers.
Performance analysis written by CNET Labs project leader Dong Van Ngo.
Samsung provides the CLP-550 with an industry-standard, limited, one-year parts-and-labor warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Toll-free tech support is available 24/7 throughout the warranty period, which is a pretty good deal. The warranty does not, however, include any onsite repairs or next-day replacement.The CLP-550 doesn't include a helpful setup poster; instead, it comes with a cumbersome 28-page setup guide. The included CD-ROM contains a more detailed user guide as well. The Samsung Web site offers FAQs, manuals, driver downloads, e-mail tech support, and online chat with a tech-support representative.
What You'll Pay
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