What Is The Best Laser Printer For Small Business
So, you're a small business owner ready to ditch the ink-stained chaos and embrace the crisp efficiency of a laser printer. Welcome! This guide is for you – the first-time buyer navigating the often-confusing world of printing technology.
Why should you even care about laser printers? Because in the world of small business, time is money, and a reliable printer is a workhorse that can save you both. A good laser printer can handle bulk printing quickly, producing professional-looking documents that reflect well on your brand.
Top 5 Laser Printers for Small Business: A Quick Comparison
Let's dive into the contenders. Here's a head-to-head comparison of five top laser printers, highlighting key features to help you narrow down your choices.
| Model | Price (USD) | Print Speed (ppm) | Monthly Duty Cycle | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HL-L2300D | $100 | 32 | 10,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| HP LaserJet Pro M15w | $120 | 19 | 8,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w | $150 | 19 | 5,000 pages | 1 Year Limited |
| Xerox Phaser 3020/BI | $130 | 21 | 30,000 pages | 1 Year |
| Samsung Xpress M2020W | $140 | 21 | 10,000 pages | 1 Year |
Detailed Reviews: Breaking Down the Best
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty. Here's a closer look at each of the printers from our comparison table, exploring their strengths and weaknesses.
Brother HL-L2300D: The Budget-Friendly Workhorse
The Brother HL-L2300D is a popular choice for its affordability and reliability. It offers fast printing speeds and automatic duplex printing (printing on both sides of the page), which can save you money on paper. However, it lacks wireless connectivity, so you'll need to connect it directly to your computer via USB.
HP LaserJet Pro M15w: The Compact Contender
If space is a premium in your office, the HP LaserJet Pro M15w is worth considering. It's one of the smallest laser printers on the market, but it still delivers decent print quality and wireless connectivity. Its print speed is slower than other models, making it better suited for light-duty printing.
Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w: Simple and Straightforward
The Canon imageCLASS LBP6030w is a no-frills option that focuses on providing reliable printing without unnecessary bells and whistles. It offers wireless connectivity and decent print quality. However, its paper tray capacity is relatively small, so you may need to refill it frequently.
Xerox Phaser 3020/BI: Durable and Dependable
The Xerox Phaser 3020/BI is known for its robust build quality and high monthly duty cycle. This makes it suitable for businesses with moderate printing needs. It also includes wireless connectivity for easy sharing across your network.
Samsung Xpress M2020W: Stylish and User-Friendly
The Samsung Xpress M2020W offers a sleek design and user-friendly interface. It delivers good print quality and wireless connectivity, including mobile printing capabilities. This printer is a great choice for modern offices.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Should you buy a new laser printer or consider a used one? Both options have their pros and cons.
Used Laser Printers: Pros: Lower upfront cost, environmentally friendly. Cons: Shorter lifespan, potential for maintenance issues, limited or no warranty.
New Laser Printers: Pros: Longer lifespan, new technology, warranty coverage, guaranteed performance. Cons: Higher upfront cost, potential for buyer's remorse if it doesn't meet your needs.
For first-time buyers, a new laser printer is generally the safer bet, providing peace of mind and warranty coverage. However, if you're on a tight budget and willing to take a risk, a used printer from a reputable source could be a viable option.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
When it comes to laser printers, reliability is key. Here's a general overview of brand reputations based on user reviews and industry reports:
- Brother: Known for reliability and affordability.
- HP: A well-established brand with a wide range of printers, generally reliable.
- Canon: Reputable brand with good print quality and consistent performance.
- Xerox: Known for durability and robust printers for higher-volume printing.
- Samsung: While their printer division was acquired by HP, older models are still available and generally well-regarded for user-friendliness.
Keep in mind that reliability can vary between specific models within each brand.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
Before you commit to a purchase, make sure your chosen laser printer ticks these boxes:
- Print Speed (PPM): Does it meet your daily printing volume needs?
- Connectivity: Do you need wireless, Ethernet, or USB connectivity?
- Duplex Printing: Can it print on both sides of the page automatically?
- Paper Capacity: Is the paper tray large enough for your needs?
- Cost Per Page: How much will toner replacements cost in the long run?
Summary: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best laser printer for your small business is a big decision. Consider your budget, printing volume, connectivity needs, and desired features.
Don't forget to factor in long-term costs like toner replacements. By weighing all these factors, you can find a laser printer that will boost your productivity and help your business thrive.
Remember to carefully consider all the factors mentioned above before making a final decision. Research user reviews for specific models you're interested in.
Ready to Print Success?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to take action! Browse online retailers, visit local electronics stores, and compare prices. Find the perfect laser printer to empower your small business today.
