Brother Intl 21 PPM GRAPHICS LASER PRINTER ( HL-5150DLT )

Rating:
Summary: Brother lasers are great for Linux
Review: I'm a Linux-only user, so I can't say how well this printer works with Windows or Mac. However, it's a fine printer and I've had no problems with it on my Debian and Gentoo systems. I installed the PPD file that comes on the CD into my CUPS printing system and, voila, it just worked. I interface the printer through a Linksys print server running on my local network with no issues. The second tray and automatic duplex features work as advertised. The printouts are a little on the light side (esp. in toner saver mode naturally) but the quality is fine. Start up time when cold is about 10-15 seconds. Note that when using the PPD (Postscript) drivers you will want to buy the memory upgrade. Its around 50 dollars from online sources. If you don't you won't get anywhere near the advertised print speed unless you use basic HP Laserjet drivers, and those won't give you access to the printer's options (duplexing, resolutions, etc). My only complaint with this printer (and true of most in this price range) is the sparse control panel. When the front panel LED blinking light show starts you have no idea what the printer is trying to tell you until you read the manual (which only comes in PDF format on the included CD--no paper manual.) The Windows driver apparently has a Control Panel applet that reads printer status, but that isn't of much use in Linux or when the printer is networked. For the money though, this is one fine printer.