Laser v Inkjet: What Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Laser or Inkjet Printer for Your Small Business
When it comes to comparing laser v inkjet printers for small businesses, several factors need to be considered. These include the initial printer cost, the printer’s features, the cost of consumables, the cost per page printed, print speed, and print quality.
1. Printer Price:
Color laser printers tend to be more expensive than color inkjet printers. However, the price gap has narrowed in recent years, and some entry-level color laser printers are now available at a similar price point to mid-range color inkjet printers. On average, an entry-level color inkjet printer can cost about $100, whereas an entry-level color laser printer can cost about $250 or more.
2. Printer Features:
Both color laser printers and color inkjet printers offer a range of features, such as wireless connectivity, automatic duplex printing, and large paper trays. However, color laser printers tend to offer more advanced features, such as higher paper capacity, faster print speeds, faxing and scanning capabilities, and the ability to handle heavier paperweights. Inkjet printers are generally simpler in design and may not offer as many features, but often allow you to print on different media, such as photo paper.
3. Cost for Consumables:
Laser printers require toner cartridges, which can be more expensive than ink cartridges used in inkjet printers. However, toner cartridges last longer and require less frequent replacement than ink cartridges, which can save money in the long run. A set of color toner cartridges for a laser printer can typically print thousands of pages, where as a set of ink cartridges may only print hundreds. Toner cartridges also last longer when not in use. It’s common for inkjet nozzles to become clogged or for the ink to dry up if not used regularly.
4. Cost per Page Printed:
The cost per page printed can vary widely depending on the printer model and the type of consumables used. Generally, laser printers have a lower cost per page than inkjet printers, especially for black and white prints. However, for color photo printing, inkjet printers can have a lower cost per page, especially for small businesses that don’t need to print high volumes. According to Toner Buzz, the average cost per page for a laser printer “is around 5- to 8-cents for black and white, and between 12- and 15-cents for color laser prints.” Inkjet printers, however, “have a higher average cost per page of about 20-cents for a colored print, and 7.5-cents for black and white.”
5. Print Speed:
Laser printers are generally faster than inkjet printers, especially for large print jobs. This can save time and increase productivity in a small business setting.
6. Print Quality:
The print quality of both laser and inkjet printers has improved significantly over the years. However, inkjet printers generally offer better color accuracy and detail, especially for high-quality photo prints. Laser printers are better for printing text documents and graphics with solid colors.
Final Analysis Between Laser v Inket Printers
Overall, the cost-effectiveness of laser printers versus inkjet printers for small businesses will depend on the specific needs of the business. For fast, crisp, high-volume printing, a laser printer will be worth the higher upfront cost in the long run. For low-volume printing and the ability to print on different types of media, an inkjet printer might be a better option.
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