Obviously, the price tag on the printer box is what you are expected to pay during checkout, but what about the expense of running and using this printing technology?
Yes, we are talking about the printer supplies! That is the inkjet cartridges, laser toners and all other related supplies which you use to print.
Have you ever put much thought into this?
Seriously, while major high tech manufacturing companies like Canon, Epson, HP and Lexmark are all selling their printers at reasonable prices.
But guess what?
They make all their BIG PROFITS back by supplying you with ongoing printer consumables, which you MUST buy if you want to keep printing!
Can you see where we're going?
Good!
That's why before you buy another printer. Please put these "Not So Obvious" costs into the price tag and then determine the true value in a long term.
Here are some quick questions to ask yourself:
1) The number of cartridges the printhead holds?
2) What is the price for one cartridge?
3) How much for a whole set? (Including all colors)
4) How long do they last? (The page printing yield)
If you're using an inkjet printer, you should know that a decent ink cartridge can easily cost around $20 each! What if you choose a printer that holds up to six of these carts, then you're looking at an extra $120 every time you replace your printer with new ink.
What if you print documents or photos almost everyday and say you consume these ink within 1 month. Now, that's an extra $120 you need to spend on your inkjet supplies each and every month!
In one year, you will be looking at around $1440!
Of course, we are only talking about inkjet printers here, but what about laser ones?
These are more expensive machines that require the use of laser toner cartridges and one of these babies can easily cost around $100 each!!!
How long do they last?
...well, it depends on the page yield and of course, how aggressive you use it!
Therefore, if you're planning on getting a new printer, please consider the after cost associated with the consumables because in a long term, it really counts!
If you're happy with your printer, but looking for ways to minimize the running cost, you may like to try the compatibles or otherwise know as generic brands. These are brand new cartridges manufactured by third party companies and are selling at a much cheaper price.
Sure, if you don't mind trying out ink refills, it may be a good option for because it is cheaper to buy. The only drawback is that things can get messy!
Otherwise, there are always remanufactured printer cartridges that come in both inkjet and toners. These are normally empty cartridges that are properly cleaned, refilled and recycled into reusable conditions for resale again.
As you can see, printing is a never ending expense and certainly one that cannot be avoid, that's why it is important to choose the right printer from the start to prevent any unnecessary future cost.
