A very common question these days is how to choose a printer. In companies, especially, this is a choice that can vary a lot, depending on the business routine.
It is normal for people to get a bit confused as there are numerous types of different brands available on the market.
From time to time, new models appear with new and differentiated functions, which ends up increasing the indecision of those who do not want to invest their money in a rash way.
In this article, we will solve the main doubts about how to choose a printer, showing that it is necessary to analyze the needs that the equipment will serve, and only then acquire the model that offers the expected results at a fair price.
What are the main types of printer?
As already mentioned, there are several models of printing equipment on the market. Before you know how to choose a printer, let’s take a look at some of the top brands on the market.
Inkjet Printer:
The inkjet printer is based on a liquid ink system, making it a great choice for those who need to print a lot of photos or graphics in color and clarity.
Some brands and models may have other features, but the essential thing is to know that this is an option for those who print low volumes, being ideal for use at home or micro-businesses.
Laser Printer:
This type of printer works like a photocopier and is by far the most common in offices.
This is due to its printing speed and agility, which can perform a high number of prints in less time, but still with good quality and low cost.
While inkjet printers use cartridges, laser models use a kind of powdered ink that, when heated, fixes the print on the paper. This supply is called toner.
Wax Jet Printer:
This is also a great option for those who need an office printer, with a lot of activity during the day.
Ink cartridges and toners are replaced with a resin-based wax. Therefore, the quality of color printing promises to be even better than in the laser model.
As such, the inkjet printer is ideal for offices that need to print a high volume of color material.
Matrix Printer:
The dot matrix or impact printer model is also used in offices as it has the ability to print several documents at the same time, ideal for more bureaucratic processes such as payrolls and invoices, for example.
It is an economical and highly durable model.
Multi function Printer:
This type of printer is ideal for anyone who needs a little bit of everything. Document and photo printing, copying, scanning and faxing, all in one device.
Nutrition can be by inkjet or laser, varying from one model to another.
How to choose a Printer?
Knowing the most common types on the market, it is already possible to see that the choice depends a lot on the needs of the individual or company that will use the equipment.
But in order not to make mistakes in this process, following a few simple steps can be a useful strategy for, at each step, to be closer to the correct choice.
See what they are:
1. Assess the need for the printer:
The first step is to analyze the need for the equipment. At this point, a few questions can help as initial guidance. Survey:
Will the printer be used in a home or office?
Will you need to print frequently or on time?
Should prints be in color or black and white?
Will I need to print only documents or photos too?
2. Set a budget:
How much can or are you willing to spend on a printer? Enforce an acceptable price range.
This aspect is very important to further narrow the options and facilitate the final choice.
3. Check your computer’s operating system:
It’s important to remember that not every printer may be compatible with your computer’s operating system.
Be sure to check this out and have this information noted so that you don’t end up purchasing a product that cannot be connected to your PC.
4. Set the printer type:
You now need to choose between printer types. As we’ve seen, laser printers are generally faster, but they work better when printing in black and white, for example.
At this point, you should analyze the questions answered in the first item of this step-by-step step and compare them with the specific advantages of each type of equipment, visualizing which one best suits your purpose.
5. Study the settings:
Printer configurations vary, even between the same type. It is important to be aware of these aspects as well, as they influence the machine’s performance according to the work it will have to perform. Read here more about printers
Be sure to check out aspects such as:
- Resolution: A high resolution printer is best for anyone who needs to print good quality graphics and photos;
- Speed: The number of pages printed per minute is important information for anyone printing large amounts of files;
- Print Size: If you are going to print files with paper sizes other than A4, for example, verifying this information is essential so that you do not have paper jammed in the tray;
- Photo quality and card slot: For those who need to work frequently with photos, it’s best to look for a model that prioritizes this type of printing, both in image quality and in the memory card slot.
- Usability: For offices, it is essential that the printer is easy to use. Think about the profile of the people who will use the equipment and prioritize usability so that there is no stress when using the equipment.
6. Evaluate cost-effectiveness:
The last point to research is the expense that each type of printer represents.
Some may have a higher purchase value, but their sourcing material is cheaper and more durable, which in the long run is more cost-effective.
Use this step to more precisely define between your favorite types and templates so far. Put the numbers on paper and compare with the budget stipulated in item 2, finally being able to make a more assertive decision.
Printer Care:
Now that you know how to choose a printer, you may have realized that this is a research-intensive investment.
After all this work, you certainly don’t want to damage the device, which makes it advisable to get help from an IT professional.
It is important to ensure correct installation in the place where it will be used, even to check that the device is working properly.
Likewise, preventive and periodic maintenance maintains the printer’s lifespan for longer, preventing the internal deterioration of the equipment due to worn parts.