Factors to Consider when Choosing a Printer
Printing Technology
There are various printing technologies available, such as inkjet, laser, and thermal printers. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages. Inkjet printers are versatile and suitable for everyday printing, while laser printers are more efficient for high-volume printing. Thermal printers are commonly used for specialized applications like barcode and label printing.
Print Speed
Consider the print speed of the printer, especially if you have large printing requirements. The speed is measured in pages per minute (ppm) and can vary significantly among different models. Choose a printer that meets your printing needs without compromising efficiency.
Print Quality
Print quality is determined by factors like resolution, color accuracy, and sharpness. Look for printers with high DPI (dots per inch) for better resolution and vibrant colors. It's also worth considering if the printer supports photo printing if you need to print high-quality images.
Connectivity Options
Consider the connectivity options that the printer offers. USB connectivity is standard, but if you require wireless printing, look for printers with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capability. Some printers also support mobile printing, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Cost of Consumables
Keep in mind the ongoing cost of consumables, such as ink cartridges or toner. Some printers may have lower upfront costs but require expensive cartridges, while others may have higher initial costs but lower ongoing expenses. Consider the long-term cost to ensure affordability in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is laser or inkjet better?
Choosing between a laser printer and an inkjet printer depends on your specific needs. If you need to print a lot of text, a laser printer might be better. On the other hand, if you prioritize clear, high-quality images, an inkjet printer is the way to go. Consider factors like space, budget, noise level, and whether you'll be using photo paper when making your decision.
2. How long does a printer usually last?
The average lifespan of a printer is typically around 3-5 years. However, with proper maintenance and upkeep, some printers can last longer. Eventually, though, you will need to upgrade your machine.
3. Is HP ink more expensive than Canon?
Compared to other brands like Epson and Canon, HP printers tend to have more expensive ink cartridges. This means that HP ink can be pricier per page when compared to other options.
4. Are cheap printers worth it?
While cheap printers may seem like a good deal, they are not always worth it in the long run. In tests, some inexpensive models were found to be less ink efficient, resulting in higher ink costs over time. It's important to consider the overall cost and efficiency of a printer before making a purchase decision.
5. What's better inkjet or laser?
Choosing between an inkjet printer and a laser printer depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize printing a lot of text, a laser printer might be the better choice. However, if you want clear, high-quality images, an inkjet printer is recommended. Consider factors like space, budget, noise level, and the type of printing jobs you'll be doing when deciding between the two.
6. What is the most widely used printer?
Inkjet printers are one of the most commonly used types of printers in both professional and domestic settings. They are versatile and offer good quality for a variety of printing needs.
7. Which is better ink or laser printer?
Choosing between an inkjet printer and a laser printer depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize printing a lot of text, a laser printer might be the better choice. However, if you want clear, high-quality images, an inkjet printer is recommended. Consider factors like space, budget, noise level, and the type of printing jobs you'll be doing when deciding between the two.
Editor's Notes
During our printer research, we found 24 printer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 376,030 customer reviews through our big data system to write the printers list. We found that most customers choose printers with an average price of $210.95.
The printers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of printers, including HP, Epson, Brother. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.