How To Intentionally Choose A Great Printer Without Relying On Luck

Impetuosity and the luck of the draw can compel many actions. Buying a printer shouldn’t be one of them. Because there are so many brands, types, and price points to choose from, selecting the right printer can be a somewhat daunting task. Rather than relying on luck, use this guide to help you choose a printer you can rely on.

The first thing to consider in choosing a printer is what you need it to do. Is its main purpose to create graphics, flyers, and other promo materials for your business? Do you need to scan lots of documents and photos for uploading to your computer? Will you print documents for your own use or photos to share internally or with consumers? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you decide what type of printer you need. One of the major choices in printers is the great debate between inkjet and laser.

Pros and Cons of Inkjet Versus Laser Printer Use

Inkjet Printers

Pros

• Easily affordable for most business and personal use
• Creates beautiful photos and graphics
• Works with a variety of paper weights and types
• Cartridges are often reusable and refillable
• Compact and lightweight

Cons

• Inkjet cartridges are expensive
• Can require routine cleanings
• Water-based ink is prone to fading and smudging
• Slower printing than their laser counterparts

Laser Printers

Pros

• Very fast printing
• Prints fine text and graphics
• Handles high volume printing easily
• Ink produces good cost per yield

Cons

• Toner cartridges are initially expensive
• Toner leaks are torturous
• Does not work well on heat-sensitive paper
• Bigger and bulkier than their inkjet counterparts

Comparing Features

The way you need your printers to function plays a role in the machine you choose. Will you get maximum functionality from a single use printer? One that prints photos and documents only? If so choose the best single-use printer you can afford. Be sure to include the ongoing cost of ink in your equation.

Does space or budget dictate the need for multifunctionality? Both laser and inkjet printers are available with a variety of additional features. If your business requires scanning, faxing, and emailing in addition to printing, choose a multifunction printer that has all the features you need.

Does your printer ever need to travel? If so, a small, easily portable printer is a smart option. If you have the floor space for a freestanding printer, you can have options like onboard stapling, folding, duplex (double-sided) printing, and booklet making. These options allow you to create pamphlets, brochures, and small booklets. If your business requires it, there are even 3D printers available today.

Printers with wireless capabilities allow you to install drivers on multiple computers or laptops and print to the same printer. In multi-user offices, this is a smart printing option. It also lets you eliminate potential tripping and spilling hazards caused by cords and cables snaking across floors and desks.

Additional features to consider include font and graphics resolution, machine memory and processor speed, and paper handling, folding, and jogging. If environmental sustainability is a concern for you, there are home and business printers that help reduce your carbon footprint. The printer you select can make a big difference in productivity and in production. Use these guidelines to help you make an educated choice that will serve your office for years.