How to Choose the Right Printer
Choosing the right printer depends on a combination of factors including how often you print, what you print, the space available, and your budget for the device itself and ongoing consumables. Reviewing these considerations before purchasing can help you avoid buying a printer that does not fit your actual needs.
Print Volume
Consider how many pages you print per week or month. Light users who print occasionally are well served by basic inkjet models. Users who print hundreds of pages per month should consider laser printers or high-yield ink tank printers, which offer lower cost per page at higher volumes.
Color vs Monochrome
If you primarily print text documents, a monochrome laser printer is typically more cost-effective. If you regularly print color documents, presentations, or photos, a color inkjet printer is more appropriate. Color laser printers are available for offices that need both speed and color output at volume.
All-in-One vs Print-Only
All-in-one printers include a flatbed scanner and copier alongside the printer. If you need to scan documents or make copies regularly, an all-in-one model provides convenience. If you only need to print, a print-only model is typically more compact and straightforward.
Connectivity
Most modern printers include Wi-Fi, allowing wireless printing from computers, smartphones, and tablets. Printers intended for shared office use often also include Ethernet for wired network connections. USB-only printers are less common and limit you to a single connected computer.
Key Points
- Estimate your monthly print volume before selecting a printer type
- Monochrome laser printers offer the lowest cost per page for text documents
- Color inkjet printers handle a broader range of media types and photo printing
- All-in-one models include scan and copy functionality in one device
- Wireless connectivity is standard on most current consumer and business printers
- Compare total cost of ownership including device price and consumable costs
This information is provided for general product education purposes. NationTechMart is an independent retailer and is not affiliated with any manufacturer. Shipping details are shown at checkout. Products include applicable manufacturer standard warranty coverage where offered; terms vary by product and brand.