Buying Guide for the Best Printers
Choosing a printer can seem overwhelming, but knowing your needs can make the process much easier. Start by thinking about what you'll be using the printer for most often, such as documents, photographs, or both. Consider how much you plan to print, how often, and whether you need special features like scanning or wireless printing. By focusing on how and where the printer will be used, you can find a model that's a good fit for your everyday tasks.Printer TypeThere are two main types of printers: inkjet and laser. Printer type refers to the technology the printer uses to create prints. Inkjet printers use liquid ink and are good for printing photos and color documents, but may be slower than laser printers. Laser printers use toner (powder) and tend to be faster, making them ideal for text-heavy documents and higher-volume printing. If you mainly print photos or a mix of colors, inkjet is usually the way to go. If you mostly print documents or need to print in bulk, consider a laser printer.
Print ResolutionPrint resolution is measured in dots per inch (DPI) and indicates how sharp and detailed the images and text will appear. Higher DPI means more detail, which is especially important for photos or graphics. For standard document printing, a lower DPI is usually acceptable and faster, while for photo printing, a higher DPI will give you better results. Think about the type of work you'll do most often; if it's just school or work documents, you don't need the highest DPI, but for photo projects, opt for something higher.
Print SpeedPrint speed is usually measured in pages per minute (PPM) and shows how quickly a printer can produce pages. This is important if you need to print a lot at once or don't want to wait for your documents. Lower speeds are fine if you print occasionally or just a few pages at a time, but if you're frequently printing lengthy documents or sharing the printer with others, a higher PPM will save time and hassle.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity refers to how the printer connects to your devices. Common options include USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and sometimes Ethernet. Wireless features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth are useful if you want to print from multiple devices or from your phone, while a USB connection can be more reliable but requires a cable. If you plan to share the printer or print from multiple devices, look for strong wireless features; otherwise, a simple wired connection may be enough.
All-in-One FeaturesSome printers offer extra functions such as scanning, copying, and faxing, often described as 'all-in-one' or 'multifunction'. This is important if you need to digitize documents, make copies, or send faxes. If you only need to print, a basic printer is simpler and can take up less space. But if you also need to scan or copy, an all-in-one device will meet those needs without requiring several separate machines.
Paper HandlingPaper handling means the size and types of paper the printer can use, how much it can hold at once, and special features like double-sided printing (duplex). If you print on different paper sizes or need to print on specialty papers, look for a printer that supports these formats. For regular home or office needs, standard paper handling is fine, but if you want automatic double-sided printing or need to handle envelopes and labels, check these specs closely.
Operating CostsOperating costs refer to how much you’ll spend on ink or toner and maintenance over time. Some printers have cheap upfront prices but expensive ink replacements, while others are more efficient. If you plan to print frequently, consider printers known for lower-cost cartridges or refillable tanks. If your printing is occasional, this might be less of a concern.
Size and DesignSize and design refer to the physical dimensions and style of the printer. Larger printers may have more features or bigger paper trays, but take up more space. Compact printers are easier to fit in small workspaces but may be slower or have fewer options. Think about where you’ll put the printer and how much space you have before deciding.
