The best printers for today’s home office have mobile apps and wireless connectivity. The units are more steamlined and compact to better sit on the desk, shelf or be undermounted to a bench. Even the end product is looking much better as inkjets are performing as good as lasers. So, if it’s time to upgrade your home printer here are few top tips from Fuji Xerox’s David Borg which might help make your printer search a lot easier.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
1. What do you need it for? Make a list of all the things you’d like your printer to do. Do you want to print in colour or black and white? Would you like scanning, copying, faxing and/or printing functionality? What devices does it need to be compatible with? A single function printer is a simple and cost-effective option for those who only need to print. A multi-function printer is an all-in-one device that has photocopying, scanning, printing, emailing and sometimes faxing functions. By combining multiple devices into one, multi-function printers are a convenient and space saving solution. Also consider print speed and colour quality. Printing family photos will require high colour quality print outs, while fast print speeds will mean less time waiting for lengthy documents.
2. How does the printer connect? Most printers are now capable of printing directly via a wi-fi network from a mobile device. This eliminates cables and the need for a PC. Ask about mobile and WI-FI connectivity when you’re shopping for a printer, bearing in mind the kind of devices your family uses. Fuji Xerox’s DocuPrint series allows you to print from wireless and mobile devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. Apple devices use Airprint and Android devices use Google Cloud print. Check that your printer is compatible with either or both of these. Alternatively, the printer may have its own dedicated mobile app available for download through app stores.
3. Is it easy to use? There are few things more frustrating than IT issues. Ease of use is a major consideration when buying a printer. Ask how easy the printer is to install and use, requesting a demo in-store, if possible. You’ll want to know the software requirements for installation and how to connect for WI-FI and mobile printing, replace cartridges and toner, and troubleshoot common issues, such as paper jams. It’s also worth asking about the supplier’s customer support options, and whether they have a customer service phone number, online support and video tutorials. In the event of a problem, you should be able to contact the service team quickly and easily.
4. Consider consumables: Consumables, such as toners and cartridges, need to be replaced over the life of a printer. When researching printers, ask about the type and cost of consumables required. Using a special toner called an EA-Eco toner can save up to 20 per cent power consumption and reduce carbon emissions by 35 per cent. Look for a printer with an energy star rating. Along with helping to keep the environment greener, it will save you money and reduce energy.
5. Does the brand and printer have a good reputation? High quality printers will produce better quality print-outs faster, be easier to use and last longer. Choose a brand you trust and read reviews online before buying. An energy star-rated printer is designed to reduce energy consumption and the cost of printing to help keep the environment greener.