Printer wars: Inkjet vs laser

Whether you're printing the latest family photos or churning out a hundred-page report, picking the right type of printer can make all the difference.

September 5, 2024

Inkjet printers

Inkjet printers are known for their ability to produce high-quality prints, especially when it comes to photos and colour-rich documents. If you’re the kind of person who loves printing vibrant images, whether for scrapbooking or showing off your latest holiday, inkjet printers might be your go-to.

Pros:

  • Excellent colour accuracy and print quality

  • Relatively low cost for the printer itself

  • Capable of printing on various paper types, including glossy and textured papers

Cons:

  • Ink can be expensive and runs out quickly

  • Slower printing speeds, especially for large documents

  • Ink cartridges can dry out if the printer isn’t used regularly

Laser printers

Laser printers are like the reliable old friend who's always there when you need them. They’re designed for speed and efficiency, making them perfect for offices or anyone who prints a lot of text-heavy documents. They may not be the best for printing photos, but they excel in producing sharp text and handling large volumes.

Pros:

  • Fast printing speeds, especially for text documents

  • Lower cost per page over time, especially for black-and-white prints

  • Toner cartridges last longer than ink, and don’t dry out

Cons:

  • Higher initial cost for the printer

  • Not ideal for high-quality photo printing
  • Toner cartridges can be pricey upfront, though they last longer

So, which one is best?

It depends! (Yes, we're sitting on the fence!)

It all boils down to what you’re printing and how often (and your budget). 

Go with an inkjet printer if:

  • You need high-quality colour prints or photos

  • You don’t print text documents in large volumes 

  • You’re looking for versatility in paper types and media

Go with a laser printer if:

  • You print a lot of text documents

  • You need fast, efficient printing

  • You want a lower cost per page over time


​​​​Think about both the upfront cost and the ongoing expenses. Inkjet printers are cheaper to buy but more expensive to run, while laser printers are pricier but offer lower long-term costs.

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