6 Features To Look For In A Printer: A Helpful Guide

1. Functionality

You might wish to start by deciding if you want an all-in-one printer or a printer that simply prints. Multifunction printers can print, fax, scan, and copy. These printers are more useful and serve a greater purpose. 

Naturally, a printer’s price will increase with its level of capabilities. You can get a less expensive printer, but you will be compromising on quality, depending on your requirements.

2. Scanner availability

If you frequently use a scanner, you should ensure the printer you purchase has high-quality scanning capabilities. For instance, you would choose a model with a flat-bed scanner if you routinely scan papers with unusual shapes. 

In addition, automatic document feeders are used by a few select brands, including Epson and Lexmark. This allows you to load multiple sheets into the printer’s tray at once rather than having to feed each page one at a time slowly. This function is quite useful and worth having.

3. Mobile/Wireless Compatibility

As some devices will operate better with different printers, you must consider the device from which you will be printing. Many printing alternatives are accessible because the greatest printer for one device might not be the best printer for another. 

For instance, a printer that works well with a Chromebook may not always work well with a Macbook. Some versions allow you to print documents even when you are not close to the printer, thanks to their WiFi connectivity!

4. Ink

The last thing you want is to buy a printer that only functions when using difficult-to-find or expensive ink. In addition, your printer’s operating costs will vary depending on the model; inkjet printers are typically more expensive because ink replacements don’t last as long. 

In this case, the cost per page is important because a laser printer normally requires a more expensive cartridge that lasts much longer. Therefore, it may be said that the laser printer is a more economical choice. In either case, you should have a fair notion of the cost of ink replacement before purchasing a model. 

5. Size

Whether you want something small and portable or require something large and industrial to print many pages will depend on your priorities. The smaller size does not necessarily indicate worse quality. 

Although it can be alluring to assume that the larger the printer, the better it must be, the truth is that this depends on the maker, the features it offers, and its intended use. Many options are available in terms of sizes, so you won’t have trouble choosing something that works in your room.

6. Printing Speed

This is crucial depending on your needs and how you use your printer. So, if you require your printer to print large volumes quickly, you must determine how many pages per minute the model can output. Your standard printer will print 20 to 30 pages per minute to give you a rough idea. However, this will take longer if you are printing in color.