Even without PIM technology, the Epson Stylus Photo 785EPX would still be an outstanding printer. A resolution of 2,880-by-720, 4-picoliter variable dot size, and a 6-color piezoelectric printhead all help deliver gorgeous, virtually continuous-tone photo-quality images that can be archived for up to 25 years. Its PCMCIA card slot and easy-to-use control panel make the unit capable of printing directly from almost any memory card without a computer. There's even an optional 1.6-inch color LCD monitor ($99 list) for previewing images before printing.

Other features include true borderless printing without smearing, a holder for 4-inch roll paper, USB connectivity, and the ability to transfer image files from memory cards to your computer automatically. Rounding out the package are Epson's Film Factory and ArcSoft's PhotoImpression software. Although this printer is very quiet, it's no speed demon; we waited nearly 8 minutes for the printer to output a 5- by 7–inch borderless photo. But our criteria valued quality over speed, which made finding flaw with the 785EPX difficult.