An Overview of Printer Prices by Type

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:11 PM

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There are many different types of impressive printers out there, each with its own pros and cons. These printer types also typically feature differing price ranges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • There are several different types of printers, including inkjet printers, laser printers, and multi-function printers.
  • Inkjet printers will cost you anywhere from $30, for budget models, all the way up to $1,300.
  • Laser printers will cost you anywhere from $70 to $3,000 while multi-function printers could cost anywhere from $350 to $15,000.

What Types of Printers Are There?

In general, there are three main types of commonly used printers. Inkjet printers are the most common, followed by laser printers and multi-function printers. You can read more about a set of colors that printers use, as detailed in this article.

Insider Tip

Budget home inkjet printers range in price from $30 to $100. Inkjet printers that specialize in photo reproductions range in price from $50 to $250.

An Overview of Printer Prices by Type

As you consider which type of printer to buy, it is important to realize the distinction between each category and how much each type of printer usually costs. Another important thing is to perform regular printer maintenance to increase the lifespan of your printer.

Inkjet Printers

Inkjet printers are the most common type of printers you are likely to encounter. These printers use ink cartridges to create reproductions and typically excel with making color prints and with making high-resolution prints. Budget home inkjet printers range in price from $30 to $100. Inkjet printers that specialize in photo reproductions range in price from $50 to $250. Mid-level inkjet printers, which typically boast larger-than-average paper trays, will run you anywhere from $100 to $500. High-end ink printers, which are typically found in offices, tend to cost anywhere from $500 to $1,300.

Insider Tip

Entry-level laser printers will cost you anywhere from $70 to $200. Mid-range laser printers, which typically boast faster speeds, can cost anywhere from $200 to $500.

Laser Printers

Laser printers are typically found in highly trafficked office environments, due to their overall speed and efficiency. Laser printers use toner cartridges, as opposed to ink, and specialize in creating monochrome or black and white reproductions. Entry-level laser printers will cost you anywhere from $70 to $200. Mid-range laser printers, which typically boast faster speeds, can cost anywhere from $200 to $500. Premium laser printers, which are the kind you will usually find in corporate offices, can cast $500 to $1,500 or more. Color laser printers, which are increasingly popular, can cost anywhere from $300 to $3,000, depending on the make and model.

Multi-function Printers

Multi-function printers, otherwise known as MFPs, are devices that can perform multiple tasks that go beyond simple print jobs, such as scanning documents and faxing documents. Due to the type’s increased feature set, you can expect to pay anywhere from $350 to $800 for a budget-friendly model. Mid-tier MFPs will cost you anywhere from $700 to $2,000 while premium color multi-function printers could cost as much as $15,000. In other words, high-end MFPs should be reserved for busy office settings, as the price makes them out of reach for ordinary consumers.

Warning

High-end ink printers, which are typically found in offices, tend to cost anywhere from $500 to $1,300.

F.A.Q.

What is digital printing?

Digital printing is a process in which you print straight from a device, without having to plug it into a printer. Only wireless printers can achieve digital printing.


What factors drive up the cost of a wide-format printer?

A number of variables can drive up the cost of a wide-format printer, including print resolution, print speed, additional features, and more.


What is cost per page and why it is important?

Cost per page dictates how much you will be spending per page when the cost of replacement cartridges is factored in. Generally speaking, laser printers have a lower cost per page than inkjet printers.



STAT: In intermittent use, many inkjet printers delivered half or less of their ink to the page before a cartridge needed to be replaced, and a few managed no more than 20 to 30 percent. (source)

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