Before you buy a fax machine, you'll want to consider whether you really need one. Many multifunction printers include the ability to send and receive faxes, and if you only need to transmit the occasional fax, this is probably a better solution because you don't have to give up valuable desk space.

If your main need is to receive faxes, rather than send, consider a software solution. Services like eFax.com will set you up with a free account and dedicated fax number that allows you to receive a few faxes per month; upgrading to a paid account will let you receive more.

If you need to send the occasional fax, services like FaxZero.com will let you send up to two a day. You can fax a file from your computer or you can scan a document and send that as a fax. We found some good information on these services from the About.com guide to web search, Wendy Boswell. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)

On the other hand, if you need to send or receive more than a couple of faxes a day, a dedicated fax machine might be your best option.

Here's what experts say to consider when buying a fax machine for home or office use:

  • Printing technology: Nearly all fax machines use plain office paper. Less expensive models generally use thermal printing technology, and printouts aren't as durable as inkjet or laser faxes. Inkjet faxes can usually print, copy and fax in color. Laser fax machines usually print sharper text and stand up better to high-volume loads. They are the most expensive type of fax machines.
  • Speed: Transmission speed ranges from about 15 seconds per page (for less expensive models like the Brother Fax-575) up to about three seconds per page (for the 4100e and Canon L170). If you only need to send the occasional fax, you can save money by going with a slower model.
  • Memory: Fax machines store incoming and outgoing pages in their onboard memory. This lets the machine save an incoming fax if it runs out of paper, and then print the fax when the paper tray is reloaded. The most basic models have modest storage capacities -- about 25 pages -- while high-end fax machines can hold as much as 500 pages.
  • Other features: Besides speaker phones and digital answering machines, some fax machines include such features as caller ID, a distinctive ring that enables it to distinguish between a telephone or fax machine call, auto redial, fax forwarding, polling and speed dialing. You'll have to decide if you need those features.

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