Small size and a low price make the HP LaserJet 1020 a good fit for a home office in which space is at a premium and occasional printing jobs don't require the utmost in speed, quality and economy.

Canon's LaserShot LBP-3000 runs quietly, quickly and offers acceptable print quality for work documents or assignments - provided you run Windows.

If your quantity and quality needs are modest, the Brother HL-2040's sticker price will make it at home on your desk.

The LaserJet P1505 doesn't look like much, but it is a fast printer. We think HP cut a few too many corners in designing it, but those seeking a no-nonsense workhorse may be willing to put up with some of its shortcomings.

The very stylish Samsung ML-1630 flouts the monochrome laser printer's reputation for dull efficiency. It's a decent machine whose low-capacity input tray and pricey toner restrict it to individuals or small offices that wouldn't mind sacrificing some usefulness for style.

Once you get it installed, the Samsung ML-2571N shows itself to be a solidly built printer that's fine for everyday use. However, it does little to distinguish itself in terms of paper handling, speed, or quality

The eye-catching Lexmark E240n lets you print good-looking text (but dark graphics) easily from anywhere on your network.