Okidata Microline 590 Review: A Reliable Workhorse for Continuous Printing
If you’re in need of a durable, high-speed dot matrix printer, the Okidata Microline 590 is worth considering. It’s designed for businesses that rely on continuous forms printing, such as invoices, shipping labels, and reports. But is it the right choice for you? Let’s dive in!
Built for Performance and Reliability
The Microline 590 stands out for its rugged construction and ability to handle high-volume printing with ease. With a print speed of 475 characters per second (cps), it efficiently churns out documents, making it a great choice for warehouses, offices, and logistics centers.
Equipped with a 9-pin printhead, it produces crisp, legible text that’s ideal for multi-part forms. If your business still relies on carbon copies, this printer ensures each layer is clearly imprinted, reducing errors and improving document clarity.
Easy Setup but Outdated Connectivity
Setting up the Okidata Microline 590 is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive controls and compatibility with major operating systems. However, its parallel and serial ports feel outdated in an era where USB and wireless connectivity are standard.
For businesses using legacy systems, this isn’t an issue. But if you’re looking for modern connectivity options, you might need additional adapters or consider newer alternatives.
Longevity vs. Noise Factor
One of the biggest advantages of the Microline 590 is its long lifespan. Built to withstand heavy-duty printing, it outperforms many inkjet and laser printers in terms of durability. Plus, its ribbon-based printing is cost-effective, with ribbons lasting for thousands of pages.
However, like most dot matrix printers, it’s noisy. If you’re in a quiet office environment, the constant clattering might be disruptive. Using a soundproof printer cover can help reduce the noise levels significantly.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
The Okidata Microline 590 is a dependable workhorse that excels in continuous, high-volume printing. If you need multi-part form printing and don’t mind the outdated connectivity and noise, this printer is a solid investment.
For businesses with modern printing needs, a laser or inkjet printer might be a better fit. But if reliability, durability, and cost-effectiveness matter most, the Microline 590 delivers where it counts.