5 Differences Between Laser and Inkjet Printers

There are so many options when it comes to setting up a printer station. One of the initial decisions that you’ll have to make is to determine what type of printer and in turn which cartridges you’ll need. The two big groups of printers you have to choose from are laser and inkjet printers. Both options offer different benefits and drawbacks. Some factors that may influence your decision include startup costs and printed results.

Here are some areas you need to consider:

1. Functionality

The main difference between laser and ink printers are the type of cartridges each printer uses. Laser printers use toner cartridges while ink cartridges are used by inkjet printers. A laser printer uses an electrical charge to instruct where and when the toner should be dispensed onto the paper. On the other hand, an inkjet printer’s technology is little more straightforward where in ink is dispensed accordingly, as the cartridge moves across the page.

2. Costs

There are a number of costs associated with selecting the right printer for you. The initial investment can differ greatly between a laser and ink printer, with laser printers being the more expensive option. The cost of purchasing and replacing cartridges is also an important factor to consider. Generally, toner replacements are more expensive. Although ink cartridges are usually less expensive, you may need to replace them more frequently. This may increase your costs in the long term. An alternative to drive costs even further down is by investing in remanufactured cartirages.

3. Space

If you have limited space to house your printing station, an inkjet may be your best option. Inkjet printers are easily stored on a desk or shelving unit. They are also a lot more portable, if you plan on moving your printing station in the future. Laser printers, on the other hand, are often larger and may require a designated area fro house it.

4. Speed

Laser printers, and in turn toner cartridges, are faster in printing versus the inkjet printer. The speed once again, comes down to the functionality of the printer. In addition to being slower, inkjet printers may also require refilling the paper more often slowing down your printing process further. For example, printing a large number of pages at once may be a challenge where as the capacity of a laser printer can allow of bigger loads to be printed.

5. Quality

When it comes to the quality of the printed product the laser printer and toner cartridge in combination will give you higher quality. The precision of a laser printer is hard to match with an inkjet printer. Once printed with an ink printer, the paper may also tend to be more likely to get smudged or ruined while the ink is still wet.

Both toner and ink cartridges offer unique benefits to the buyer. It is simply a matter of what you value the most among these factors to determine which option is the best fit for your type of work.

If you’d like to advise on what the best printer and cartridge options are for you, please contact us at info@shopeveryday.ca or (416) 652-6829 for more information.