What Printer to Buy

If you are a new computer user and are thinking of buying a printer, let me help you decide which printer to buy by introducing the types of printers available in the market.

Inkjet printer. An inkjet printer places variably-sized droplets of ink onto paper to create an image you are trying to print. It uses an ink cartridge which must be replaced regularly. Inkjet printers are known for its cheap price and good performance. They are quiet when performing a printing operation and can provide you with high quality prints. It is said that inkjet printers print better pictures than laser printers. The downside of using this type of printer is that it prints slower compared to a laser printer. Aside from that, original printer manufacturer ink cartridges are expensive. However, generic ink cartridges are already available in the market to answer the high cost of the original ones.

So if you only intend to print in low volume, I do recommend you to use an inkjet printer.

Laser Printer. A laser printer uses toner (dry ink) to print text or picture. It prints faster and its ink lasts longer than an inkjet printer. The disadvantage of using laser is that it is expensive and the high maintenance it requires. If a toner cartridge supply is already empty, most of the time it actually means replacing the toner cartridge as well as other standard maintenance parts like wiper blades, imaging drum and waste toner hopper.

It is actually more economical to use a laser printer if your intention is to print in high volumes. You’ll get things done faster. This type of printer is more preferred for office use.

Multifunction printer (MFP). This is a printer with additional functions such as scanner, photocopier and fax. The advantage of this type of printer is the convenience it can offer plus you can save space in your home or office without having to allocate space for other devices. MFPs are the most expensive among the three printers mentioned in this article but it is obviously the one with the most functions. There are various models of MFPs in the market which varies in size and functionality, designed for either personal or office use.

Whichever type of printer you decide to purchase, it should match your printing needs and budget.