Buyer's Guide for Printer- Part 1

Is it going to be the only printer in the home or office

Do you need a multifunction printer or not

Nowadays you can buy printers that scan, copy and fax. Will you need your printer to perform any of those things If you don't necessarily need the printer do any of those things, then it will not be a factor you need to consider. If not, your buying decision will be much more speedy.

What are you going to use the printer for

If you have a need for one particular function in a printer, look for just that at first. For instance, if you want scanning capability, look for that first and then go for the printing part. This means what are you going to use the printer mainly for Here are some common printer uses, usage levels and the type of printer that may be best suited for this usage:

1. Light everyday home use: occasional printing , mainly text, maps for directions, a few photos here and there. (Basic entry level inkjet printer).
2. Heavy home use (Or home office, light office): High number of pages, still mainly text or no photo images (no color needed then b/w laser printer, if color is needed a good fast inkjet printer, and if budget available than an entry level color laser).
3. Home photo printing: Uses a few mainstream paper sizes, print family photos, cards, scrapbooking, but nothing in high volume (entry to medium level photo printer depending on the budget).
4. Professional photo printing: High quality photo printing (high end photo printers).
5. Printing marketing materials. Small businesses, real estate agents, etc. (color laser printers entry to high level).
6. Heavy office use for mainly text: if black/white is enough (b/w fast laser printer).
7. Heavy office use with also a lot of images and color: a lot of text with graphics, company newsletters, brochures, graphs and presentations. (a good high end color laser printer)

What is your budget

You can start by coming up with a budget and then try to get the best printer that fits your needs in that budget. This can work several ways. Most likely, however, you will think of a number that looks great on paper. After a bit of research, you may find that you overestimated or underestimated the cost of a printer that fulfills all of your needs. Then, you’ll come up with a more accurate budget and go from there. Be sure to consider the cost of printer ink cartridges in your budget as well, as they will be a recurring expense.

Link:Part 2