Best Desktop Printer For Small Business
Running a small business is a juggling act, and the last thing you need is a printer that can't keep up. Whether you're printing invoices, marketing materials, or contracts, a reliable desktop printer is an essential tool. This guide is designed for first-time buyers, cutting through the jargon to help you choose the perfect printer for your needs.
Why a Desktop Printer Matters for Your Small Business
Think of your printer as a silent partner. A good one saves you time and money. A bad one? Frustration and lost opportunities.
A dedicated desktop printer allows for immediate, on-demand printing, crucial for time-sensitive tasks. It offers better control over print quality and security compared to outsourcing.
Top 5 Desktop Printers: A Quick Comparison
| Model | Price (USD) | Print Speed (B&W/Color ppm) | Resolution (DPI) | Monthly Duty Cycle | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2370DW | $120 | 36/N/A | 2400 x 600 | 15,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e | $230 | 22/18 | 4800 x 1200 | 25,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| Canon PIXMA TS6420a | $100 | 13/6.8 | 4800 x 1200 | 3,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2850 | $300 | 10/5 | 5760 x 1440 | N/A | 2 Year Limited |
| Lexmark MB2236adw | $280 | 36/36 | 1200 x 1200 | 30,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
Detailed Reviews
Brother HL-L2370DW: The Budget-Friendly Workhorse
This monochrome laser printer is a fantastic option for businesses primarily needing to print text documents. It offers fast printing speeds and a reliable performance. The duplex printing feature is a welcome addition for saving paper.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e: The All-in-One Powerhouse
This inkjet printer delivers excellent color print quality, along with scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. Its smart features, like self-healing Wi-Fi, streamline your workflow. HP Instant Ink subscription can also significantly reduce ink costs.
Canon PIXMA TS6420a: Compact and Versatile
The Canon PIXMA TS6420a is ideal for small businesses needing a compact, all-in-one printer for occasional use. It excels at printing photos and documents with decent quality. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to operate.
Epson EcoTank ET-2850: The Ink-Saving Champion
This inkjet printer uses refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges, saving you a substantial amount on ink in the long run. While the initial investment is higher, the low running costs make it an attractive option for businesses with high printing demands. The print quality is also impressive for both text and images.
Lexmark MB2236adw: The Feature-Rich Performer
The Lexmark MB2236adw is a monochrome laser printer with robust features, including fast print speeds and duplex scanning. Its high monthly duty cycle makes it suitable for demanding printing environments. Security features help protect sensitive information.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Buying a used printer can save you money upfront. However, consider the potential risks before making a decision. You might encounter issues with reliability and limited or no warranty coverage.
Pros of Buying Used: Lower initial cost, environmentally friendly. Cons of Buying Used: Potential for hidden problems, shorter lifespan, limited support.
Buying a new printer provides peace of mind with a warranty and the latest features. While it's more expensive initially, you're likely to save on repairs and maintenance in the long run.
Pros of Buying New: Warranty coverage, latest features, longer lifespan, better support. Cons of Buying New: Higher initial cost, faster depreciation.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
Printer reliability varies by brand and model. Brother and Epson are generally regarded for their robustness and durability. HP and Canon offer a good balance of features and reliability, but may require more frequent maintenance. Lexmark is known for business-oriented features and robust performance.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
- Print Quality: Consider the type of documents you'll be printing most often. Laser printers are best for text, while inkjet printers excel at photos and graphics.
- Print Speed: Evaluate your printing volume. If you print frequently, prioritize a printer with a high print speed (measured in pages per minute - ppm).
- Connectivity: Ensure the printer offers the connectivity options you need, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. Mobile printing compatibility is also a plus.
- Running Costs: Factor in the cost of ink or toner. Inkjet printers often have lower initial costs, but higher running costs compared to laser printers. Look for high-yield cartridges or refillable ink tanks to save money.
- Features: Determine which features are essential for your business. Do you need scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities? Duplex printing? A large paper tray?
Summary
Choosing the best desktop printer for your small business requires careful consideration of your specific needs and budget. Evaluate factors like print quality, speed, connectivity, running costs, and desired features. Weigh the pros and cons of buying used versus new.
Remember to check user reviews and reliability ratings before making a final decision. Doing your research will ensure you select a printer that meets your business requirements and provides reliable performance for years to come.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the printer that perfectly fits your business needs.
Ready to Print Success?
Don't let a subpar printer hold your business back. Take the next step toward efficient and reliable printing. Research the models discussed, compare prices, and read user reviews. Empower your business with the perfect printing solution. Click here to compare prices now!
