How to Buy a New Printer

A printer is necessary for almost all offices. When purchasing a new printer, you must consider not only the printer's price and what it can do, but also whether it will continue to meet your future printing needs.

Research Printers

Before beginning your research, you must identify what you want your printer to do and how fast you want it done. These initial decisions will guide you during your research.

Basic Printers or All-In-One Machines

The first decision is whether or not you want a basic printer or an all-in-one system. A basic printer allows you to print documents from Word, Excel and other software applications. All-in-one printers allow users to print, copy, scan and fax documents as well as directly print photographs. Either type may allow you to print photographs directly from your camera, but this is rare to find in a basic printer.

There are benefits and drawbacks to each type. A basic printer may not meet your needs, requiring you to go to a print shop to fax or copy documents or purchase additional office equipment. However, you might not use each option of this type of system on a regular basis, thereby not justifying its purchase price.

Establish a Budget

A printer's cost is directly related to how many tasks it performs. Establishing how much you want to spend on its purchase helps you eliminate those that are too expensive, and therefore probably fancier, than you need.

Establish a Long-Term Budget

A printer's cost includes the cost of paper, ink cartridges, toner and other supplies to keep it running. The costs of these supplies differ for each brand and type of machine. Include these costs in your research to ensure they don't overstretch your budget.

Establish Your Printing Needs

Next, determine the exact specifications you want in a printer. Consider whether in addition to printing you want to be able to copy, scan and fax items. Are you also interested in printing photographs? If so, you might want an all-in-one machine. If what you seek is basic printing capabilities, a basic printer may suffice.

Also consider whether you want a wireless printer, which allows you to print from any place in your home. This requires you to have a wireless-capable computer and wireless router. This ability is particularly helpful if you have a laptop.

Remember to take into account your future printing needs. If you anticipate starting a new business, you may need fax or scanning capabilities. Wireless printers save businesses the hassle of running cables from multiple work stations. Consider all the potential uses for the printer, and let the end use guide your choice.

Measure Your Printing Spot

You should also ensure a new printer will fit in the workspace where you intend to use it. Measure the space so you know just how big your printer can be and still fit comfortably near your desk. Be sure there is enough room around the printer to open the cover to change the ink or remove paper jams. There should also be plenty of space to allow for good air circulation so the unit doesn't get too hot.

Researching Printers

After you've completed the background work for buying a new printer, it's time to do some research. Whether online, over the phone or in person, being knowledgeable about what printers are out there, their average cost and what you need makes it easier for you to purchase one.

Investigate Types

Identify the specific brands and types of printers available. Create a list of printers that seem to be a match for your needs. Include the style number, manufacturer and any other identifying information.

Investigate Prices

Contact local retail stores, both large and small, and the manufacturer to determine a printer's average price. Don't be surprised if a retailer does not offer one of the printers you are interested in; there are so many of them that it's basically impossible to stock them all. Check online prices against store prices; often the former are lower. Also research whether the store holds any regular sales or accept coupons (even competitors' coupons.)

Investigate User Reviews

A great way to find the truth about a printer is to read online user reviews. These reviews, which are usually available on sellers' websites, can provide you with information you otherwise would not know until after purchasing the printer. Keep in mind that there are always one or two disgruntled consumers. A single bad review of a printer may not be reliable. However, several bad reviews may indicate that there is something wrong with the machine's design.

Purchasing Your New Computer

Once you've researched the best price and know exactly what you want, it's time to purchase your new printer. The time you've spent in researching your choice ensures that your printer will be useful to you for years to come.