Shopping for technology can be fun and exciting. Then again, sometimes need to get a new printer, and doing so might not be either of those. Printing technology is changing as fast as any other, so a few quick tips to help you make an informed decision can spare you a case of buyer’s remorse.
How Often Will You Print?
You might expect the most important question to revolve around print quality or the cost of a device, but this is not the case. The reason for this boils down to the fundamental differences in printer designs. For the most part, you have two choices: inkjet or laser. Inkjet printers are far more common, and they work by literally squirting ink on a page. Laser printers have a stigma of being business or office machines, but for now, it’s important to understand that they use dry ink. Why does this matter? When inkjet printers sit idle for too long, the liquid ink can coagulate and cause problems. If your printer won’t be used on a regular basis, a laser is the safest bet.
What Will You Print?
To expand on the two primary kinds of printers, consider their strengths and weaknesses. Inkjets are capable of much better color ranges, resolution, and image quality. If you want to print high-quality photos, lasers are clearly the inferior option. If the bulk of your printing is plain text or large volumes, lasers hold the edge. In general, laser printers are faster and cost less to print per page (although there are notable exceptions). This question is enhanced when you consider non-printing jobs. Do you need a scanner? A copier? All-in-one printers are available in both styles, but the most affordable models will lean toward inkjets.
What Is Your Budget?
There are two numbers you need to consider when shopping for a printer. The first and most obvious is the initial investment. How much is the device? The second number to consider asks how much it costs to operate the printer. Good reviews of a printer will include a cost-per-page analysis. This is a starting point, but you also want to consider longevity. On average, laser printers last much longer than their inkjet counterparts, and cost-per-page estimates often overlook this fact.When you can answer those questions, you’ll know enough to make use of reviews and manufacturer specifications. You’re ready to find your printer. When you’re ready to take the next step, contact All Copy Products to find the right device to enhance your productivity while maximizing your return on investment.
