Best Laser Printers For Small Business
Running a small business demands efficiency, and a reliable printer is non-negotiable. But navigating the sea of laser printers can feel daunting, especially for first-time buyers. This guide cuts through the jargon, offering clear insights to help you choose the best laser printer for your specific needs.
Why laser printers? They offer speed, cost-effectiveness per page, and durability, making them ideal for businesses handling regular printing tasks. Let's dive in!
Top 5 Laser Printers for Small Businesses: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Here’s a quick overview to get you started. Consider this your cheat sheet to understanding the basic differences.
| Model | Price (USD) | Print Speed (PPM) | Duty Cycle (Pages/Month) | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2370DW | $150 | 36 | 15,000 | 1 Year |
| HP LaserJet Pro M15w | $120 | 19 | 8,000 | 1 Year |
| Canon imageCLASS MF264dw | $200 | 30 | 20,000 | 1 Year |
| Xerox B210 | $130 | 31 | 30,000 | 1 Year |
| Lexmark B2236dw | $180 | 36 | 30,000 | 1 Year |
Detailed Reviews: Unpacking the Best
Brother HL-L2370DW: The Workhorse
The Brother HL-L2370DW is a solid choice for businesses needing reliable, high-volume printing. Its fast print speed and automatic duplex printing (printing on both sides) save time and paper. Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile printing capabilities add convenience.
HP LaserJet Pro M15w: Compact and Economical
If space is a premium, the HP LaserJet Pro M15w is remarkably compact. It offers decent print quality at a budget-friendly price point. It's ideal for very small businesses with light printing needs.
Canon imageCLASS MF264dw: The Multifunction Marvel
The Canon imageCLASS MF264dw is an all-in-one solution, offering printing, scanning, and copying functionalities. It handles moderate print volumes and offers mobile printing options. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to operate.
Xerox B210: The Reliable Performer
The Xerox B210 offers a good balance of speed and reliability. It boasts a high duty cycle, meaning it can handle a significant amount of printing each month without issues. This makes it suitable for growing businesses.
Lexmark B2236dw: Feature-Rich and Efficient
The Lexmark B2236dw is a feature-rich printer with fast print speeds and duplex printing. Its energy-saving modes help reduce operating costs. The higher duty cycle caters to demanding printing environments.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Buying a used laser printer can save money upfront. However, it comes with risks.
Used:
- Pros: Lower initial cost, potentially environmentally friendly.
- Cons: Shorter lifespan, potential for hidden problems, limited or no warranty.
New:
- Pros: Full warranty, guaranteed lifespan, latest features.
- Cons: Higher initial cost.
For first-time buyers, the peace of mind offered by a new printer's warranty and guaranteed performance is often worth the extra investment.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
While specific models vary, some brands have a reputation for greater reliability. Based on industry surveys and user feedback:
- Brother: Generally considered highly reliable and durable.
- HP: A well-established brand with a solid track record, but reliability can vary by model.
- Canon: Known for good print quality and overall reliability.
- Xerox: Offers robust printers suitable for demanding environments.
- Lexmark: Often provides feature-rich options with good reliability ratings.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
Don't get caught out with a printer that doesn't meet your needs. Always consider the below points before purchasing.
- Print Speed (PPM): How quickly does it print? Higher PPM means faster printing.
- Duty Cycle: What's the maximum number of pages it can handle per month? Choose a printer with a duty cycle that exceeds your average monthly printing volume.
- Connectivity: Does it offer Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile printing options?
- Duplex Printing: Can it print on both sides automatically? This saves paper and money.
- Toner Cost: How much does toner cost, and how many pages does a cartridge yield? Calculate the cost per page to estimate long-term expenses.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right laser printer involves balancing your budget, printing needs, and long-term costs. Consider print speed, duty cycle, connectivity, duplex printing, and toner costs before making a decision. Weigh the pros and cons of used versus new printers. Prioritize brands known for reliability if you need a dependable workhorse.
Remember, the "best" printer is the one that best fits *your* unique business requirements.
Your Next Step
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to assess your specific printing needs. What's your monthly printing volume? Do you need multifunction capabilities? What's your budget? Answer these questions, revisit the printer comparisons, and confidently choose the perfect laser printer to boost your small business productivity! Don’t delay, efficient printing is just a purchase away!
