Are Laser Printers Worth It?
Key Questions:
- What are the advantages of laser printers?
- How do laser printers compare to inkjet printers in terms of cost and efficiency?
- When should you consider upgrading your laser printer?
If you have never owned a laser printer and are hesitant to switch, we hope to alleviate your concerns. With extensive experience managing laser printers for personal use and customer services, we can confidently say laser printers offer significant advantages.
This article will explore why laser printers are both cost-effective and long-lasting.
Advantages of Laser Printers
Durability and Longevity
Laser printers are known for their durability and longer life cycle compared to inkjet printers. They break down less frequently, leading to lower maintenance costs and less downtime. This makes them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Cost-Effectiveness
Laser printers have a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than inkjet printers. The cost-per-page is significantly less due to the higher yield of toner cartridges. A typical ink cartridge for an inkjet printer yields about 10% of what a toner cartridge for a laser printer does.
Toner Efficiency
Toner cartridges for laser printers have a higher yield, meaning more prints per cartridge. The cost of toner is much lower than the cost of ink, resulting in a lower cost per page. Additionally, toner doesn’t dry out like ink, which ensures consistent print quality even if the printer is not used frequently.
Common Concerns
Do Laser Toner Cartridges Dry Out?
No, toner cartridges do not dry out. Unlike ink cartridges, toner is already dry. The only concern is moisture, which can be avoided by keeping the toner in a dry place and away from liquids.
Warranty Limitations
Most manufacturers offer a one-year warranty on toner cartridges, but this can vary. Reputable toner companies will replace defective cartridges within a reasonable timeframe. It’s generally recommended to use genuine cartridges to ensure compatibility and quality.
When to Upgrade Your Laser Printer
Age and Security
The industry standard for the lifespan of a laser printer is about five years. If your printer is older, it may not meet current security protocols, making it vulnerable to cyber threats.
Usage and Wear
Consider the “mileage” of your printer. A two-year-old printer with a million copies is more worn out than one with only 50,000 copies. High usage can accelerate the need for replacement.
Cost of Ownership
Evaluate the cost of repairs versus the cost of a new printer. If your printer requires frequent repairs or if the cost of a major repair approaches the cost of a new, more efficient model, it may be time to upgrade.
Changing Needs
If your printing needs have evolved, such as requiring color printing or higher print quality for photos and graphics, it might be time to upgrade to a model that meets these requirements.
Maintenance Tips
Cleaning Your Laser Printer
Avoid using canned air, as it can spread toner particles into the printer. Instead, use clean wipes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your printer.
Conclusion
Laser printers are worth the investment for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. If you are considering a switch or an upgrade, ManagedPrint can help you choose the right laser printer and provide a managed print service plan to keep your fleet running smoothly. We typically work with brands like HP, Brother, Lexmark, and other common laser printer brands.
Ready to make the switch to a laser printer? Contact ManagedPrint today to learn more about our services and how we can help you manage your printing needs efficiently.
