These days no one buys a major technology purchase - like a computer, TV or camera -without doing some research. Well, the same should go for buying a printer. The devices are more complex than ever with so many features and functions that it can be hard to narrow down a style of printer, let alone a brand.
So the staff of PrinterComparison.com has come up with a 10 question checklist to help guide newbies and pros alike on their quest for the perfect printer.
TOP 10 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BUYING A PRINTER:
1. How much do you want to spend?
This is the No. 1 question of the season considering the current economic climate. So before you hit the stores, ask yourself, “how much money do you have to spend on this purchase?” For an idea of what you can get in each price bracket, check our Moms, Dads, and Grads buyer’s guide coming next week!
2. How much will consumables cost?
The second most important question, although some would argue it’s the first. Either way, it’s important to get a general idea of how much it will cost to run your new printer over the long run. Check to see what kind of ink or toner it takes and then find it in the store or online. Most manufacturers will have a general ball park number on prints per cartridge listed on the packaging; divide that by the cost of the cartridge to get an estimate of cost per print.
3. Is Multifunction the ticket?
More than ever, manufacturers are advertising the fabulous All-in-One (AIO) or Multifunction printer (MFP). They mean the same thing; that you’ll be getting a printer as well as several other functional devices. The question is, “do you really need a scanner and copier or could you save money by just purchasing a single function printer?”
4. You decided yes. So which AIO or MFP is right for me?
Most AIOs or MFPs offer print, scan and copy capabilities. However, many of the multifunction devices now offer fax and/or high quality photo capabilities as well. Four-in-1 or 5-in-1 devices will almost always be more expensive than their 3-in-1 counterparts so make sure that fax and/or photo capabilities are something you need.
5. To go wireless or not? That is the question!
Cutting the cord is more prevalent than ever in today’s world and the printing industry is not immune to that trend. Many manufacturers are touting a built-in wireless connectivity as a major feature, but should you pay major money for it? Well, two questions can answer this dilemma for you: “do you have a network in your home or office?” And “do you have more than one computer you want to print from?” If the answer is yes to both, then you’ll want to consider either a Wi-Fi or Ethernet (wired network) connection. If the answer is no to either, than a plain old direct connection via USB will work just fine.
6. Am I a colorful person?
This question really only applies to shoppers looking for a Laser or LED printer as inkjet printers always print in both black and white and color. Consumers can save a good amount of money purchasing a monochrome printer in both initial cost and long run usage because there is no color element. But be careful to make sure black and white is really right because a colorless world can be pretty dull.
7. I love color; can I print lab quality photos?
You won’t be getting lab quality photos from a laser, LED or solid ink printer anytime soon. While these machines print beautiful colors and have their place in many households and businesses, if you want photos, inkjet or dye sub is the way to go. The real question is will you be printing photos for the home or photos to share? If you have a semiserious photography love, you want to go with a dedicated photo printer
8. I’m into the green movement, is there a printer out there for me?
The answer is yes. When you buying a printer ask a salesperson (or look at the specs) to see if the printer is Energy Star and/or RoHS compliant. Both are environmental programs helping to conserve energy and protect consumers from harmful materials. Plus, most Energy Star compliant devices will save you money on your energy bill you can’t beat that!
9. So I’ll conserve energy, can a printer do more than that?
Again, the answer is yes. Two-sided printing (duplexing) is another feature you’ll want to look for when interested in conserving, whether it is for Mother Earth or your wallet. Make sure to check to see if the printer has automatic duplexing; many times a manufacturer will advertise duplexing as a feature, but users will actually have to flip the document in order to get double-sided results.
10. What extras will I have to purchase?
Depending on how you answered the above questions, you will have to buy supplies for a new printer. Every printer comes with a starter kit of ink/toner (at least the ones that I’ve come across) but you may want to purchase a second set depending on print volume. Paper is important; typically copy paper will be fine for most prints but photo paper or professional paper may be needed to accomplish some goals. Finally, you need to make sure you have the right cord for your connection. If you plan on setting up your printer over an Ethernet or USB connection, you will need an Ethernet cable or USB print cord. It should say on the box or in the specs whether either is included. If not, ask someone!
There are plenty of options to consider when purchasing a new printer for your home or office, but the most important thing is to make sure you get what you need to accomplish your goals. If you are buying a printer to share with a small workgroup with a large printing volume, take these needs into consideration. If you just want a budget friendly single function printer to send with your student off to college, then consider that. Don’t be taken in by all the cool gadgets and excellent marketing!
