1. Start with how you print
How often do you print, in black and white or color, documents or photos, and do you need to scan or copy? A printer used a few times a month has very different needs from one used daily.
2. Understand the main types
- Inkjet (cartridge): lower purchase price, good for photos and occasional color. Cartridges can be expensive per page, and ink can dry out if the printer sits unused.
- Ink-tank (refillable): higher purchase price, much lower cost per page, suits regular home printing in color or black.
- Laser (toner): sharp text, fast, and toner lasts well, so it suits frequent document printing. Color lasers cost more up front.
3. Work out cost per page
Divide the price of a replacement cartridge or toner by its stated page yield. For illustration only, using the same currency units throughout: a cartridge costing 30 and rated for 300 pages works out to 0.10 per page, while a tank refill costing 15 and rated for 4,000 pages works out to under 0.004 per page. Check whether yields are measured under standard conditions and whether the printer works with lower-cost cartridge options.
4. Check the features you'll use
Scanner and copier (all-in-one), automatic two-sided printing, paper sizes, document feeder, and an input tray large enough for how much you print. Ignore features you won't touch.
5. Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB cover most needs. If several people print, wireless or network printing is convenient. Check that the model works with the types of device you use, and read the terms of any ink program offered with it.
6. Size and noise
Printers are bigger than they look in photos, and laser units can be heavy. Measure the space, including room to open covers and trays.
7. Compare total ownership over a few years
Add the purchase price to a realistic estimate of consumables for the pages you'll print over three years. The cheapest printer to buy is frequently not the cheapest to own.
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General information only. Check the details of any product with its manufacturer or seller before you buy. Ask Buddy is independent and isn't affiliated with the makers of products mentioned in general terms.