If you haven't purchased your laser or inkjet printer yet, there are a few things you should consider, in the first instance.  Which one is more suited, will very much depend on what you use your printer for, and how frequently.  Another factor is whether you will be working more with photography, graphics, or pure text.  Is black and white your priority, monochrome, or is colour?  Maybe you only need it for simple print jobs?  In which case, a no nonsense economical work horse would probably best suit your needs best. 

Best Price?  Best Printer?

Which printer is best suited, will wholly depend on your needs.  A monochrome laser printer is great for black and white text documents.  If it's photo quality you need, inkjet printers tend to be preferable.  When purchasing your laser printer, check out the cost of replacement laser cartridges.  How much, for how many printed pages.  Laser printer toner does tend to be more expensive than inkjet.  However, when you compare initial costs, with how many pages, they can be much more economical in the long run.   

Facts and Figures

The initial cost of a colour laser printer will, generally, set you back more than an inkjet.  Also, the cartridges will seem expensive, in comparison, too.  However, if you print more frequently in monochrome, but still have the need for colour, they can save money in the long run.  Due to the laser cartridges higher yields.  Shop around and compare costs and yields.  Originals can be expensive, but there are replicas available, known as 'compatibles'.  They are generally much more economical, but quality and yield do have to be taken into consideration.   

The Mechanics

Inkjet printers work by heating a small metal plate, called a resistor.  Your computer tells this to heat up, using a small electrical pulse, sent to the resistor.  When this happens, the ink around the resistor is vaporised, and sent up into the nozzle, forcing a tiny drop out onto the paper.  All in the blink of an eye!  The main problem with inkjets is that they can dry up and clog the printer heads. 

If the thermal element in the cartridge overheats, permanent damage can be caused to the printer.  When this happens, more often than not, you will have to throw the printer away.  Usually it is more economical to do this, than repair the old one.  Laser cartridges can't dry up, the ink is in the form of a toner.  One less thing to worry about! 

Who's who?

Worldwide, Lexmark, Epson, Canon and HP are the top sellers with consumers.  When it comes to laser printers, brand choices tend to be a little different.  Why? Generally, laser printers are used by a specific market, because they work in a different way and are more appropriate for specific needs.  Oki, Brother, Samsung, Lexmark, HP, and Xerox are the most popular choices.  At the end of the day, your own needs and experience will make the decisions for you.   

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