Comparison of Color Laser Printer Quality

Color adds power to your presentations.

Purchase a color laser printer after inspecting sample pages. Text should appear sharp at all sizes. Print graphics in black and white to ensure solid areas show no streaks, and make sure the printer's output fits your needs.

Hardware

Factors contributing to color laser printer quality include processor speed and the amount of RAM or memory capacity. Not all printers have an LCD screen that reports job status. Consider the operational controls, paper trays and toner cartridges in terms of accessibility and ease of operation.

Software and Connectivity

Check system software requirements and whether the printer offers PostScript support or a particular type of Microsoft certification. Look at what peripherals/interface devices a prospective model accepts and what networking options it offers, such as USB direct, wireless and/or wired connection capability. If your color needs are critical, consider models offering color management software.

Output

Print speed, given as pages per minute for black and for color, is a key comparison. Color printing should be a one-pass process. Match maximum document size and the media type and weight that the printer accepts to your needs. Evaluate monthly duty cycle numbers, consumables capacity, stated as number of pages per toner cartridge, and maximum resolution, listed as dpi (dots per inch). Higher dpi produces better image quality.

References

• Cnet Asia: How Do I Judge Printer Quality?
• "Macworld": Macworld Buying Guides: Color Laser Printers; Chris Holt; November 2008
• PC World: "Top 10 Color Laser Printers"; Melissa Riofrio; October 2010
• Your Dictionary: Color Management System
• Hardware Central: "Buying Guides: Color Laser Printers"; John P. Mello Jr.; February 2010
• SuperWarehouse: How to Select a Color Laser Printer