Printers are nowadays required everywhere and almost every organization or working individual owns a printer. However with so many options choosing the right printer is a challenging task. There is no doubt that all printers are fine but not all are made for you; they have different features, different specialties.
There are several instances when users need printers that offer printing, scanning, and faxing facilities, but they end up buying only a printer. In this guide we’ll take you through every aspect of the printer which you need to check when buying yourself a new printer. We hope after reading the complete blog, you’ll be able to make an informed choice.
Things to Consider when Buying a Printer
There are several things which users need to consider when they buy a new printer. Here I’ve mentioned the most important ones, so you’ll get the best printer in your budget and you can get what you require.
Inkjet vs. Laser Printers: Which One Should You Choose?
When deciding on a printer, the first choice you’ll need to make is between an inkjet and a laser printer. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best option depends on your printing habits.
Inkjet Printers: Affordable and Versatile
Inkjet printers are widely used for home and small office settings. They are perfect for printing photos and documents with high-quality color. Inkjet printers offers some of the best advantages for users:
- Lower upfront cost
- Good for color printing
- Versatile with different media types (e.g., photo paper, glossy paper).
Disadvantages
- Slower printing speed
- Ink cartridges can be expensive if you print a lot.
Laser Printers: Fast and Efficient
Laser printers are the go-to option for offices and businesses that require high-volume printing. They’re known for their speed and efficiency. Below are the some of Laser printer’s features:
- Faster printing
- More cost-effective for bulk printing
- Toner cartridges last longer.
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost
- Not ideal for high-quality photo printing.
What Features Should You Look for in a Printer?
Once you decide what type of printer you need, the second thing you need to consider is the features of printers. Printers come with a range of features, from basic to advanced. It’s important to know which features will truly benefit you, so you’re not paying for extras you don’t need.
- Wireless Connectivity: If you need flexibility, wireless printing is a must-have feature. This allows you to print from any device on the same Wi-Fi network, including smartphones and tablets.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Duplex printing allows you to print on both sides of a page automatically. This can save paper and is an excellent feature for offices that need to produce a lot of reports or booklets.
- Touchscreen Interface: A printer with a touchscreen interface makes it easier to navigate settings and options. This feature is particularly useful if you plan to use the printer’s scanning or faxing functions frequently.
Cost Considerations: Don’t Forget About Ongoing Expenses
The initial cost of a printer is just one part of the equation. Ink and toner cartridges, paper, and maintenance can add up, so it’s important to factor in ongoing expenses when choosing a printer.
- Inkjet Cartridge Costs: Ink cartridges for inkjet printers can be expensive, especially if you print in color frequently. Some inkjet printers have a “low ink” warning even when there’s still ink left, which can lead to frequent cartridge replacements.
- Toner Costs for Laser Printers: While toner cartridges for laser printers are more expensive upfront, they last significantly longer than ink cartridges, making them more economical in the long run.
Printer Size and Space Considerations
Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to think about where you plan to place your printer. Depending on your available space, printer size could be an important factor.
- Compact Printers for Small Spaces: If you have limited desk space or plan to use the printer in a home office, look for compact models. Many inkjet printers are designed to fit in tight spaces and can easily be stored when not in use.
- Large, Multifunction Printers: For larger offices or workplaces that require scanning, copying, and faxing, a multifunction printer (MFP) may be ideal. However, MFPs are bulkier, so make sure you have enough room for these types of printers.
Do You Need a Multifunction Printer?
Multifunction printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing into one device. These are a great option for businesses or home offices where multiple functions are needed.
Advantages of Multifunction Printers
- Space-saving: Instead of having separate devices for printing, scanning, and copying, an MFP consolidates them into one machine.
- Cost-effective: Instead of buying separate devices for each function, MFPs offer all-in-one functionality, which can save money in the long term.
- Convenient: If you frequently need to scan or copy documents, having everything in one place speeds up your workflow.
Disadvantages of Multifunction Printers
- Larger size: Multifunction printers are often bulkier, requiring more space.
- Complexity: With more features comes a steeper learning curve. If you don’t need the extra functionality, a simpler printer may be easier to manage.
Printer Speed: How Fast Do You Need to Print?
Printer speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM). If you frequently print large volumes of documents, a printer with a high PPM will save you time.
- For Home Use: For occasional use at home, printer speed may not be as critical. An inkjet printer with 5-10 PPM should be sufficient for everyday tasks like printing school assignments or documents.
- For Office Use: For a busy office environment, speed matters. Laser printers generally offer higher PPM, often between 20-50 pages per minute. Some high-end office printers can even reach speeds of 70+ PPM, ideal for handling large printing jobs quickly.
Print Quality: Does It Matter for You?
Print quality is another key consideration, especially if you plan to print photos or marketing materials. Printers are rated by their resolution, measured in dots per inch (DPI).
- For Text Documents: For printing standard text documents, a printer with a resolution of 600 x 600 DPI is usually sufficient. Both inkjet and laser printers can handle this with ease.
- For Photos and Graphics: If you need to print high-quality photos or design work, an inkjet printer with a higher DPI (1200 x 2400 or above) will produce sharper, more vibrant images. Laser printers can also print in color but generally don’t reach the same level of quality as inkjet printers for photos.
Printer Compatibility: Does It Work with Your Devices?
Before buying a printer, it’s essential to make sure it’s compatible with your devices. While most printers today are compatible with both Windows and macOS, some might have better functionality with one or the other.
- Mobile Printing Support: If you want the ability to print directly from your smartphone or tablet, check whether the printer supports mobile printing services like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, or manufacturer-specific apps like HP Smart or Canon PRINT.
- Operating System Compatibility: Make sure the printer supports the operating systems you’re using. Many newer models will work seamlessly with the latest OS updates, but if you’re using older devices, double-check compatibility to avoid issues.
Printer Warranty and Support
Another often overlooked factor when buying a printer is the warranty and customer support options provided by the manufacturer. A printer warranty typically lasts for one year, covering hardware malfunctions and defective parts.
- Extended Warranties: Some brands offer extended warranties for an additional cost. While this can be a good investment for business printers that are used heavily, it may not be necessary for a personal or home office printer.
- Customer Support and Repairs: Research the manufacturer’s customer support options. Brands with reliable, responsive customer service can save you a lot of headaches if you encounter problems.
Final Words
When it comes to buying a printer, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Consider your specific needs, including the type of documents you print, the volume of your printing, and your available space. Whether you opt for an inkjet or laser printer, or choose a multifunction device, making an informed decision can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Take the time to evaluate what matters most to you—be it print quality, speed, or cost—and you’ll end up with the perfect printer for your home or office.