How to Choose a Laser Printer for a Home Office

When determining printing options for a home office, more consumers are considering laser printers. Laser printers are in many ways superior to inkjet printers, as they are easier to maintain, faster and last longer. While laser printers are more expensive than inkjets, the extra expense is worthwhile. Consider the following steps before choosing a laser printer for your home office.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Assess your home office printing needs. Resolution (dpi), print speed (ppm) and paper media compatibilities are three main categories by which laser printers are judged. However, if you need networking and printer sharing, then you may also need upgraded memory, rendering chips and printer server capabilities.

2. Set a budget. Determine how much you are willing to spend to get the printer that meets most of your needs.

3. Research laser printers online that are in your price range. Most name brand companies have a wide array of models representing all price ranges. Find Web sites dedicated to comparing different brands and models of laser printers.

4. Research each printer’s rating. Web sites that compare different brands and models of laser printers almost always use a rating system to keep their comparisons and evaluations consistent. Each laser printer will be given an overall rating.

5. Compare the functions and features (that you determined in Step 1) of these laser printers. Important comparisons to make are quality, printer speed and network capability. These categories will give you an idea of the printer’s quality and the impact it will have on your home office.

6. Read online customer reviews on each laser printer. Find out what people who have used the printers have to say about them.

7. Call different electronics stores and find the best price on the printer you want. Compare these results with prices you find online.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t forget to factor in the shipping costs if you buy online. If it exceeds the price you would pay at a store, then buy from the store.
• Don’t allow yourself to be sold on a printer that a salesman wants you buy.
• Double-check your research. Don’t rely solely on one set of consumer ratings and reviews. Find out what a wide array of consumers thought of the printer.
• Don’t fall for the lowest priced or “bargain” printers. Make sure the manufacturer you purchase from has established credibility, good customer service and tech support. Pick a company that will come to your aid if the printer breaks down, which is likely to happen.
• Check the cost of replacement cartridges for a printer. The printer might be cheap, but the replacement cartridges may be expensive.