When it comes to printing, one of the most significant expenses can be the cost of replacing ink cartridges. This can be especially true if you’re a heavy user, printing multiple documents and images on a daily basis. However, finding a laser printer with cheap ink cartridges can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best laser printers on the market that offer affordable ink cartridges, and discuss what you should consider when shopping for a new printer.
Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership
When it comes to choosing a laser printer, it’s essential to consider the total cost of ownership. This includes the initial purchase price of the printer, as well as the ongoing costs of replacing ink cartridges. Some printers may have a lower upfront cost but could end up costing more in the long run if the ink cartridges are expensive.
To give you a better understanding of the cost of ownership, let’s take a look at a real-life example. Suppose you’re considering two laser printers: the HP LaserJet Pro M254dw and the Brother HL-3170CDW. Both printers have a similar upfront cost, but the HP LaserJet Pro M254dw has a higher price per page due to its more expensive ink cartridges.
| Printer Model | Upfront Cost | Cost per Page (Black and White) | Cost per Page (Color) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP LaserJet Pro M254dw | $400 | 5.5 cents | 12.1 cents |
| Brother HL-3170CDW | $400 | 2.9 cents | 7.4 cents |
As you can see, while the two printers have a similar upfront cost, the Brother HL-3170CDW is significantly cheaper to operate due to its lower cost per page.
Top 5 Laser Printers with the Cheapest Ink Cartridges
Based on our research, here are the top 5 laser printers with the cheapest ink cartridges:
- Brother HL-L2300D: This compact laser printer is one of the most affordable options on the market, with an upfront cost of just $150. It also has a low cost per page, with prices starting at 2.5 cents per page for black and white prints. The Brother HL-L2300D also features fast printing speeds and duplex printing capabilities.
Key Features:
- Print Speed: 27 ppm
- Paper Capacity: 250 sheets
- Connectivity: USB
- Cost per Page: 2.5 cents (black and white)
Cost per Page: 6.2 cents (color)
Kyocera Ecosys M2040DN: The Kyocera Ecosys M2040DN is a mid-range laser printer that offers a high level of performance and value for money. It has a low upfront cost of $300 and a cost per page of just 2.9 cents for black and white prints. The printer also features fast printing speeds and high-quality prints.
Key Features:
- Print Speed: 40 ppm
- Paper Capacity: 250 sheets
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Cost per Page: 2.9 cents (black and white)
Cost per Page: 8.4 cents (color)
Canon imageCLASS LBP712Cdn: The Canon imageCLASS LBP712Cdn is a high-end laser printer that offers a range of advanced features and capabilities. It has a higher upfront cost of $600, but a low cost per page of just 3.2 cents for black and white prints. The printer also features fast printing speeds and high-quality prints.
Key Features:
- Print Speed: 40 ppm
- Paper Capacity: 250 sheets
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Cost per Page: 3.2 cents (black and white)
Cost per Page: 9.2 cents (color)
HP LaserJet Pro M254dw: The HP LaserJet Pro M254dw is a mid-range laser printer that offers a high level of performance and value for money. It has a low upfront cost of $400 and a cost per page of just 5.5 cents for black and white prints. The printer also features fast printing speeds and high-quality prints.
Key Features:
- Print Speed: 30 ppm
- Paper Capacity: 250 sheets
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Cost per Page: 5.5 cents (black and white)
Cost per Page: 12.1 cents (color)
Xerox WorkCentre 6515: The Xerox WorkCentre 6515 is a high-end laser printer that offers a range of advanced features and capabilities. It has a higher upfront cost of $700, but a low cost per page of just 3.5 cents for black and white prints. The printer also features fast printing speeds and high-quality prints.
Key Features:
- Print Speed: 40 ppm
- Paper Capacity: 250 sheets
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Cost per Page: 3.5 cents (black and white)
- Cost per Page: 10.2 cents (color)
What to Consider When Shopping for a Laser Printer
When shopping for a laser printer, there are several key factors to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Print Quality
One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a laser printer is print quality. Look for a printer that offers high-quality prints with a high resolution (measured in dpi) and clear text. A good printer should be able to produce crisp, clear prints with minimal feathering or bleeding.
Print Speed
Another key factor to consider is print speed. Look for a printer that offers fast print speeds, especially if you’ll be printing large quantities of documents. Some printers may also offer a “draft” mode that allows you to print faster, but with slightly lower quality.
Paper Capacity
The paper capacity of a printer refers to the number of sheets of paper that the printer can hold at any given time. Look for a printer with a high paper capacity, especially if you’ll be printing large quantities of documents. This will save you the hassle of constantly refilling the paper tray.
Connectivity Options
Finally, consider the connectivity options offered by the printer. Look for a printer that offers a range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity. This will allow you to connect the printer to your computer or network and print from multiple devices.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best laser printer with the cheapest ink cartridges, there are several key factors to consider. From print quality and print speed to paper capacity and connectivity options, there are many things to think about before making a purchase. By doing your research and considering your needs and budget, you can find a printer that meets your requirements and saves you money in the long run.
In this article, we’ve looked at some of the top laser printers on the market that offer affordable ink cartridges, and discussed what to consider when shopping for a new printer. Whether you’re a heavy user or just looking for a reliable printer for occasional use, there’s a printer out there to suit your needs and budget.
What to Consider When Choosing a Laser Printer with Cheap Ink Cartridges?
When choosing a laser printer with cheap ink cartridges, consider several factors. First, determine the cost of replacement cartridges and their yield. Look for printers with high-yield cartridges that cost less per page. Additionally, check the cartridge prices from various manufacturers and third-party suppliers.
Another factor to consider is the printer’s compatibility with third-party cartridges. Some printers may not work well with non-OEM cartridges, so ensure the printer you choose is compatible before making a purchase. Also, check the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer, as well as any additional costs for maintenance and repair.
Which Laser Printer Brands Offer the Cheapest Ink Cartridges?
Several laser printer brands are known to offer relatively cheap ink cartridges. One of the most popular brands is HP, which offers a wide range of laser printers with affordable cartridges. Brother and Canon are also popular options, with many of their laser printers using high-yield cartridges that are budget-friendly. Additionally, some lesser-known brands like Xerox and Epson offer cheap ink cartridges for their laser printers.
When shopping for a laser printer from these brands, make sure to research the specific model you’re interested in and compare the prices of its cartridges with other brands. You can also check for promotions, discounts, or bundle deals that may further reduce the cost of the cartridges.
How to Refill or Replace Laser Printer Cartridges?
Refilling laser printer cartridges is a relatively simple process that can save you money in the long run. To do so, you’ll need to purchase a refill kit specific to your printer model, which usually includes a toner powder and instructions. Start by removing the cartridge from the printer, then follow the instructions to refill the toner. Be careful not to spill the toner or touch the electrical components.
If you prefer to replace the cartridge instead of refilling it, make sure to purchase a compatible cartridge from the manufacturer or a reputable third-party supplier. Remove the old cartridge and dispose of it properly, then insert the new cartridge into the printer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to reset the cartridge counter or register the new cartridge to prevent any issues with the printer.
Are Cheap Laser Printer Cartridges Worth the Savings?
Cheap laser printer cartridges can be worth the savings if you shop carefully and consider the long-term costs. While cheaper cartridges may save you money upfront, they may also produce inferior print quality or have a shorter lifespan. Look for cartridges that offer a good balance between price and quality, and consider the cost per page to ensure you’re getting the best value.
When shopping for cheap laser printer cartridges, be wary of very low prices that seem too good to be true. These cartridges may be counterfeit or refilled with low-quality toner, which can damage your printer or produce poor print quality. Always research the seller and read reviews from other customers to ensure you’re buying from a reputable supplier.
Can I Use Third-Party Cartridges in My Laser Printer?
Using third-party cartridges in your laser printer can be a cost-effective option, but it’s essential to ensure compatibility before making a purchase. Check the manufacturer’s website or documentation for information on approved third-party cartridges or look for cartridges that are specifically designed to work with your printer model.
When purchasing third-party cartridges, make sure to buy from a reputable supplier that offers a warranty or guarantee. This will protect you in case the cartridge is defective or causes issues with your printer. Additionally, be aware of any potential risks or limitations associated with using third-party cartridges, such as voiding your printer’s warranty or affecting its performance.
How Often Should I Replace Laser Printer Cartridges?
The frequency of replacing laser printer cartridges depends on your printing needs and the cartridge’s yield. If you’re a heavy user, you may need to replace the cartridge every few weeks or months. On the other hand, if you only print occasionally, the cartridge may last for several months or even years.
To determine when to replace the cartridge, check the manufacturer’s estimate of its yield or the number of pages it can print before running out of toner. You can also monitor the cartridge’s performance by tracking the number of pages printed or the quality of the prints. When the prints become faded or light, it’s usually a sign that the cartridge needs to be replaced.
Are Laser Printers with Cheap Ink Cartridges Environmentally Friendly?
Laser printers with cheap ink cartridges can be environmentally friendly if you consider the long-term impact of your purchases. When shopping for cartridges, look for brands that offer eco-friendly options, such as recycled or biodegradable cartridges. You can also choose cartridges with a higher yield to reduce waste and minimize the number of cartridges used.
Another way to make your laser printer more environmentally friendly is to recycle or properly dispose of used cartridges. Many manufacturers offer recycling programs or collection centers for used cartridges, so be sure to participate in these initiatives to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of your printing activities.