Complete home printer buying guide: Essential considerations before you buy along with top picks

Choosing a suitable home printer necessitates an evaluation of multiple factors, including the printing type, multifunctional capabilities, speed and print quality, among others. Check out this buying guide to get all your queries answered. Read on.

Published13 Aug 2024, 03:11 PM IST

Planning to buy a new printer? You must check out the best printer that's well-suited for your needs. — Planning to buy a new printer? You must check out the best printer that’s well-suited for your needs.

Looking to buy a home printer but unsure how to start? Whether you’re printing out school assignments, working from home, or just need something reliable for occasional use, the sheer number of options can be a bit overwhelming. Today’s printers are loaded with features like wireless connectivity, double-sided printing, and even scanning and copying, each serving different purposes.

But how do you know which features are really important for you? This guide will help you navigate the essential questions, so you can confidently select the perfect home printer that meets your unique needs. Let’s dive in and find the best printer for your home!

How many types of printers are there?

For home printing, you have a variety of printer types to choose from, each tailored to different needs. Inkjet printers are quite versatile and are particularly good for general home use, especially if you want to print photos and colourful documents. They work by spraying tiny ink droplets onto the paper, which allows for vibrant colour prints and accommodates different paper sizes and types. Conversely, laser printers are the go-to option for high-volume text printing. They use toner instead of ink, making them more efficient for producing large amounts of sharp text documents. Although laser printers are faster, they may not deliver the same quality for colour photos as inkjet printers do. The right choice depends on what you need to print.

What kind of printer would be best for my needs: an inkjet or a laser model?

The decision to select between inkjet and laser printers is contingent upon your specific printing requirements. Inkjet printers are adaptable and capable of producing both colour and monochrome prints, making them particularly well-suited for photographs and graphic images. Conversely, laser printers excel in high-volume text printing and generally provide a lower cost per page. If your printing needs are frequent or if you prioritise high-quality text documents, a laser printer may be the more advantageous choice. For not-so-frequent printing tasks, particularly those involving colour, an inkjet printer could be the more appropriate selection.

Check out the best inkjet printers

Also read: Best portable wireless printers for on the go printing: Top 10 compact models to consider

Is it necessary for me to have a printer that includes scanning and copying capabilities?

Multifunction printers (MFPs) combine several functions, such as printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing, into one device. If you expect to need features like document digitisation, copying, or occasional faxing, an MFP can be a highly convenient option. However, if your needs are restricted to simple printing, a single-function printer may be sufficient and generally more economical. Evaluate your typical tasks and workflow to determine if an MFP is the right choice for you.

Check out the best laser printers

To what extent does print speed matter for my requirements?

The print speed, quantified in pages per minute (PPM), is an essential consideration for individuals who regularly print extensive documents or numerous copies. A greater PPM is particularly beneficial for home office users or students who often require the printing of detailed reports or assignments. Typically, laser printers provide superior print speeds compared to inkjet models, rendering them suitable for high-volume printing tasks. Conversely, if your printing needs are infrequent, a printer with a marginally lower speed may suffice, allowing you to focus on other attributes such as print quality or overall cost.

Also read: Best 3D printer models: Bring your ideas to life with precision, unleash creativity with top 10 picks

What is duplex printing functionality and is it essential for home printing needs?

Duplex printing functionality allows a printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper. This capability can greatly minimise paper consumption and facilitate the creation of double-sided documents without the need for manual intervention. The decision to purchase a printer with this feature should be based on your requirements. If you often print materials like reports, academic assignments, or lengthy projects, duplex printing can enhance efficiency and reduce paper waste.

Check out the best printer with duplex printing feature

What types of connectivity options should I consider?

Modern printers are designed with multiple connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cloud printing capabilities. Wireless connectivity is especially useful in home environments, permitting various devices to print without the need for a physical connection to the printer. For individuals with smart home setups or those who share the printer among multiple users, it is recommended to choose a printer with advanced wireless features. Moreover, certain printers support mobile printing, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets, which is increasingly important in today's mobile-centric landscape.

Also read: Best Canon laser printers in 2024: Top 8 affordable, high-quality options for home and office use

How easy is it to set up and maintain the printer?

The ease of installation and maintenance is a vital aspect, particularly for users who may not be technologically inclined. It is important to seek out a printer that offers a user-friendly setup experience, clear instructions, and uncomplicated maintenance practices. Certain printers are designed with automated maintenance features, such as self-cleaning printheads and simple cartridge replacements, which help to reduce the effort required for upkeep. Reviewing customer feedback or watching setup demonstrations can offer a clearer perspective on the printer's manageability.

Also read: Best colour printer from HP: Top 10 picks for clear and vibrant prints for home and office usage

Factors to consider before buying the best printer for home use

Type of printer: Decide between inkjet and laser printers based on your printing needs. Inkjet printers are ideal for colour printing and photos, while laser printers are better suited for high-volume text documents at a lower cost per page.
Functionality: Determine whether you need a multifunction printer (MFP) that includes scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, or if a single-function printer will suffice.
Print speed: Consider the printer's pages per minute (PPM) rating, especially if you frequently print large documents or multiple copies.
Connectivity: Look for printers with USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile printing options to ensure compatibility with your devices and ease of use.
Print quality: Evaluate the printer's resolution, particularly if you need high-quality prints for photos or professional documents.
Cost: Consider the long-term costs, including ink or toner replacements, paper, and maintenance. Assessing these expenses will help you determine the most cost-effective option.
Brand and after-sales support: Research the reputation of the printer brand for reliability, customer service, and availability of replacement parts or consumables.