Within these considerations, printers still vary widely in output quality for these categories. Generally, business models use laser technology and are geared toward text (and sometimes graphics), while home printers (generally inkjets) favor photos.

Most printers are designed to print text, graphics, or photos. (Even among specialty printers, 3D printers are a special case, and beyond the scope of this discussion.) Even if you primarily want to print photos, you may also want a printer that can do other things, so be clear on the whole scope of your printing needs before you buy. Special-purpose options include dedicated and near-dedicated photo printers and label printers. Generally, business models and are geared toward text and usually graphics, while home printers (generally inkjets) favor photos. Most printers are designed with either business or home use in mind. Printers vary widely based on whether they’re for home or business use (or dual use in a home and home office), what you intend to print with them (text, graphics, photos, labels), and whether you need color printing or just monochrome. (And if you’re finding it hard to find the one you want in stock as global supply chains continue to struggle, check out our guide to landing tough-to-find tech.) How Do You Intend to Use Your Printer? Do you need a basic printer, or do you want it to have scanning and copying abilities, as well? How do you choose between inkjet and laser technology? What’s the difference between a $200 model and a $500 model? Here are some pointers to help you find both the right category of printer and the right model within that type.

Should you buy cheap paper? What about recycled paper?Ĭhoosing a printer may sound easy, but once you start diving into all of the available features, making a choice can quickly get daunting.

Should you buy third-party ink or refill kits?.

How Are You Going to Connect Your Printer?.

What Will Be a Printer’s Running Costs?.

Do You Need a Single-Function Printer or an All-in-One?.

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