Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
Printers are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from printing photos and documents to creating marketing materials and crafting projects. But with so many different types and models on the market, it can be difficult to know which printer is right for you.
This guide will provide you with an overview of the different types of printers available, as well as some important factors to consider when making your decision.
Types of Printers
There are four main types of printers: inkjet, laser, continuous ink, and wide format.
- Inkjet printers are a good choice for home users who need to print a variety of documents and photos. They are relatively affordable and easy to use, but they can be expensive to operate in the long run, as ink cartridges can be pricey.
- Laser printers are better suited for businesses or home users who need to print large volumes of text. They are more expensive than inkjet printers, but they offer lower printing costs and faster print speeds.
- Continuous ink printers are a more economical option for users who print a high volume of text documents. They use refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges, which can significantly reduce printing costs. However, continuous ink printers can be more difficult to set up and maintain than other types of printers.
- Wide format printers are designed for printing large documents, such as posters, banners, and blueprints. They are more expensive than other types of printers, but they offer the ability to print on a wider variety of media.
Check out this comprehensive comparison of Inkjet Printers vs. Laser Printers.
How to Find the Perfect Printer
It's quick and easy to find your ideal printer with our filters while shopping for inkjet and laser printers.
| Filter Type | How To Use |
| Search (Name, Description) | Type exactly what you want to help find your new printer. Whether it be a brand, model type or feature. For example, if you want a Canon printer that can print A3 size, simply type, "Canon A3" and it will show the relevant printer models. |
| Brand | Select a brand, or multiple brands, to only show printers from specific manufacturers that you have interest in. |
| Features | Pick the features you're looking for in your new printer to ensure the printer is capable of doing what you need it to do. Want a laser printer that can print A3 size or a printer with wireless connectivity that has a duplex (double-sided printing) function? Select as many feature types as you need to refine the list of suitable printers. |
| Sort | Prioritise your results by selecting which printers you want to see first - the top rated, the newest or oldest and the cheapest or most expensive. |
| Price | Use the slider to define your budget by only showing printers that are within a lowest and highest price point. |
| Per Page | Select the number of printers displayed on each page. |
| Compatibles Available | Click the checkbox to maximise your savings by only showing printers which have compatible or remanufactured consumables available to buy. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printer
When choosing a printer, it is important to consider your needs and budget. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Print quality: How important is it for you to have high-quality prints? If you are printing photos or other images, you will need a printer that can produce high-resolution prints. Check the printer specs specifically for DPI (dots per inch).
- Print speed: How fast do you need to print? If you print a lot of documents, you will want to focus on the amount of pages the printer is capable of printing per minute.
- Cost: How much are you willing to spend on a printer? Inkjet printers are generally the most affordable option, but they can be more expensive to operate in the long run. Laser printers are more expensive upfront, but they offer lower printing costs.
- Features: What features are important to you? Printers can offer a wide variety of features such as automatic duplex printing, Wi-Fi connectivity, and mobile printing.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the printer that is right for you.
Need more help? Contact our friendly customer service team to assist with your enquiry.
