Printer technology, unlike computers, doesn’t change every few months and a good buy can last with you for a good five to six years. When buying a printer, it is important to consider the purpose you would want to invest in this technology for. Each printer model and manufacturing company come up with something different. Here are our seven factors that can help you with the daunting task and make it a little bit easier for you.
1. Know Thy Purpose
Most of the manufacturers build printers that are meant to target a specific segment of the market. For example, the office use printer is different from the one used in the photo labs and so on.
2. Multi-functionality is an option
When you go out in the market, you can find standalone printers that are designed to perform just one task: printing. Then there are the multifunctional printers that can be used as a replacement for afax machine, scanner, and many other office devices.
3. Inkjet or laser
There are two types of laser printing technologies in the market: laser and inkjet. When you decide on the printing technology, keep in mind that you will have to buy toner cartridges. So make sure that you invest in the technology whose replacement cartridges are easy to find when you go out to buy toner cartridges, such as the HP Officejet Pro 6830 Printer Ink.
4. Duplex printing
Depending on the usage, most printers offer to print on both sides of the paper, and some do not. So based on the kind of papers you would want to be printed, it is one feature to look into as well.
5. Wireless connectivity
You wouldn’t want the office clogged up with wires and cables when you have the feasibility of getting the printer wirelessly connected to the network system in the office.
6. Speed is important
The printing speed and the power of the printer are factors worth considering too. You wouldn’t want to invest in the printer which is not fast enough.
7. Cost matters
This is one of the most important factors if you ask us. Depending on your budget, you will have to carry out a market survey to find out about the printers that fall in the range.
If you are looking around to buy toner cartridges,try remanufactured versions. They work just as good as genuine cartridges and they come at a cheaper cost, too.
References:
http://sanziro.com/2009/07/11-factors-to-consider-before-buying-your-next-printer.html
http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/buying-advice/printing/what-consider-when-buying-printer-3340383/
http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/10-things/10-things-to-look-for-in-an-all-in-one-printer/
http://www.ebay.com/gds/15-Features-to-Look-For-in-an-All-in-One-Printer-/10000000177634141/g.html