When it comes to shopping for desktop office machines, multifunction devices are extremely popular, almost to the level of computer printers. Thanks to that popularity, you'll have a wide variety of multifunction devices from which to choose, and you'll have a much easier time finding one that's able to meet your specific SOHO-environment needs. In this roundup, we'll discuss some especially versatile multifunction devices. Ideally, versatile multifunction devices can perform all four standard functions--print, fax, copy, and scan--for your business needs, and they have the ability to easily print full-color photographs for your home needs. Unfortunately, not every device is ideal.

Canon Pixma MP830

The Pixma MP830 from Canon is one of the most versatile inkjet multifunction devices currently on store shelves. The MP830 is especially strong when it comes to printing photographs--You can insert the flash memory card from your digital camera directly into a slot on the Pixma MP830 and then preview the photos on the unit's 2.5-inch LCD screen before printing. The Pixma MP830's printouts are sharp and bright, and it can print a sharp 4x6 photo in less than a minute.

This unit doesn't skimp on its other features, either. The scanner creates sharp images, and the Pixma MP830 can copy and fax at very good speeds. We'd like to see Ethernet connectivity with this unit, but that's only a minor drawback. The Pixma MP830 is an outstanding unit with great versatility.

Canon Pixma MP830
Canon Pixma MP830

Brother MFC-240C

It's rare to find a sub-$100 multifunction device that contains all four standard functions, but Brother's MFC-240C fits in that select category. The will print sharp photographs, but it works very slowly in best mode, which isn't all that surprising for a budget-priced unit. This unit has slots for flash memory cards, too, but no LCD screen for previewing the images.

None of the MFC-240C's features are above average, other than its print quality. And it's not a workhorse machine, so it won't fit the needs of a busy SOHO environment. It's also important to note that the replacement ink cartridges for the MFC-240C are pretty expensive, so you will save some money up front with this unit, but you'll pay a bit more in the long run than other options.

Canon Pixma MP530

Print speed isn't the forte of the Canon Pixma MP530, but it can create very sharp and vibrant photos when you give it enough time. The Pixma MP530 works especially well for those who own Canon digital cameras, as Canon made it easy to print directly from its own cameras on the unit. Unfortunately, printing directly from other brands of cameras is a little more difficult because the Pixma MP530 doesn't have slots for memory cards or an LCD screen.

The Pixma MP530's other features are average or a little below--They won't meet the needs of a busy SOHO environment, but they're good enough for a less demanding SOHO user who also needs good photo printing capabilities.

Hewlett-Packard OfficeJet 5610

Hewlet-Packard's multifunction device, the OfficeJet 5610, has a complete package of functions to help you keep your office's paperwork flowing steadily. Print documents and images in a resolution of 4800X1200 dpi. The amount of pages printed per minute (ppm) depends upon the ink type -- 20 ppm for black ink and 13 ppm for color. In addition to printing, the OfficeJet 5610 has scanning, sizing, faxing and copying functions.

When scanning and copying documents, books and images rest assured you will be able to get a clear scan. The scanning surface is flat and allows for resizing of images anywhere between 25 to 400 percent. The 25-sheet automatic feeder lets you load paper and walk away from the task in progress.

HP Photosmart C6180

The Photosmart C6180 inkjet multifunction device would be a good value for a photo printer at just under $300. Throw in its multifunction capabilities, and the Photosmart C6180 will be a very good choice for many SOHO customers. The C6180's photo-printing capabilities are significantly better than its other functions, however, as the fax, copier, and scanner features are average at best. On the other hand, it does offer Ethernet connectivity, which is handy.

But going back to the photo printing, the C6180 makes use of a six-ink printing system, which gives it the ability to create extremely vibrant and bright photos. The ink seems to smudge easily, unfortunately. You can print directly from flash memory cards and use the Photosmart C6180's 2.4-inch LCD to preview your photos before printing.