Home » Is It Cheaper to Buy a New Printer Than Ink?

Uncategorized

Is It Cheaper to Buy a New Printer Than Ink?

trandsatkp

November 2, 2023

83 Views 0

SaveSavedRemoved 0

If you own a printer, you know how expensive ink cartridges can be. Sometimes, it may seem like buying a new printer is cheaper than replacing the ink. But is that really true? And what are the pros and cons of doing so? In this article, we will explore the costs and benefits of buying a new printer versus buying ink, and offer some tips on how to save money on printing.

How Much Does Printer Ink Cost?

Printer ink is one of the most expensive liquids in the world, costing more than champagne, perfume, or even blood. The average cost of printer ink is around $0.05 per page for black and white printing, and $0.21 per page for color printing. Depending on how much you print, this can add up to hundreds of dollars per year.

The cost of printer ink varies depending on the brand, model, and type of cartridge. Some printers use individual cartridges for each color, while others use tri-color cartridges that combine cyan, magenta, and yellow. Some printers use standard cartridges, while others use high-yield or extra-large cartridges that last longer. Some printers use inkjet cartridges, while others use toner cartridges for laser printing.

The table below shows some examples of the cost and page yield of different types of cartridges for popular printer models.

As you can see, the cost per page can vary significantly depending on the printer and cartridge type. Generally, laser printers have lower cost per page than inkjet printers, and high-yield or extra-large cartridges have lower cost per page than standard or regular cartridges.

How Much Does a New Printer Cost?

The price of a new printer depends on the features and functions that you need. Some of the common factors that affect the price are:

• Print quality: Higher resolution and color accuracy usually mean higher price.
• Print speed: Faster printing usually means higher price.
• Paper size: Larger paper sizes usually mean higher price.
• Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth, Ethernet, or USB options usually mean higher price.
• Functions: All-in-one printers that can scan, copy, or fax usually mean higher price.

The table below shows some examples of the price and features of different printer models.

As you can see, the price of a new printer can vary significantly depending on the features and functions that you need. Generally, you can find a decent printer for under $100, but if you want more advanced options, you may have to pay more.

Is It Cheaper to Buy a New Printer Than Ink?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as:

• How often do you print?
• How much ink do you use per print?
• How long do you plan to use the printer?
• How much does the printer and the ink cost?
• What are the environmental and social impacts of buying a new printer or ink?

To illustrate this point, let’s compare two scenarios: buying a new printer versus buying ink for an existing printer.

Scenario 1: Buying a New Printer

Let’s say you have an HP DeskJet 3755 printer that uses HP 65 cartridges. You print about 100 pages per month, mostly in black and white. You bought the printer for $89.99 two years ago, and you have replaced the ink cartridges four times since then. The black cartridge costs $15.89 and yields 120 pages, and the tri-color cartridge costs $16.89 and yields 100 pages. The total cost of ownership for two years is:

• Printer: $89.99
• Ink: ($15.89 + $16.89) x 4 = $131.12
• Total: $221.11

Now, let’s say you decide to buy a new printer instead of replacing the ink cartridges. You choose the Canon Pixma MG3620 printer that uses PG-240 and CL-241 cartridges. The printer costs $59.00, and the cartridges cost $17.99 and $22.99 respectively. The black cartridge yields 180 pages, and the color cartridge yields 180 pages. The total cost of ownership for two years is:

• Printer: $59.00
• Ink: ($17.99 + $22.99) x 2 = $81.96
• Total: $140.96

In this scenario, buying a new printer is cheaper than buying ink for the existing printer by $80.15.

Scenario 2: Buying Ink for an Existing Printer

Let’s say you have an Epson WorkForce WF-2860 printer that uses 202 cartridges. You print about 200 pages per month, mostly in color. You bought the printer for $129.99 two years ago, and you have replaced the ink cartridges six times since then. The black XL cartridge costs $30.99 and yields 550 pages, and the color combo pack XL costs $58.99 and yields 470 pages each. The total cost of ownership for two years is:

• Printer: $129.99
• Ink: ($30.99 + $58.99) x 6 = $539.88
• Total: $669.87

Now, let’s say you decide to buy a new printer instead of replacing the ink cartridges. You choose the Brother MFC-J805DW printer that uses LC3033 cartridges. The printer costs $159.99, and the cartridges cost $29.99 for black XXL and $59.99 for color XXL combo pack. The black cartridge yields 3000 pages, and the color cartridges yield 1500 pages each. The total cost of ownership for two years is:

• Printer: $159.99
• Ink: ($29.99 + $59.99) x 1 = $89.98
• Total: $249.97

In this scenario, buying a new printer is cheaper than buying ink for the existing printer by $419.90.

Pros and Cons of Buying a New Printer Versus Buying Ink

As you can see from the examples above, sometimes buying a new printer can be cheaper than buying ink for an existing printer, but not always. There are also other factors to consider besides the cost, such as:

Pros of Buying a New Printer

• You may get better print quality or speed with a newer model.
• You may get more features or functions with a newer model.
• You may get more compatible or convenient options with a newer model.
• You may get more warranty or support with a newer model.

Cons of Buying a New Printer

• You may waste ink or toner that is left in the

• existing printer or the new printer.
• You may create more electronic waste by disposing of the old printer or the new printer.
• You may have to deal with compatibility or installation issues with the new printer or the new cartridges.
• You may have to spend more time or money on maintenance or repairs for the new printer or the new cartridges.

How to Save Money on Printing

Whether you decide to buy a new printer or ink, there are some ways to save money on printing, such as:

• Compare the cost and page yield of different printers and cartridges before buying. Look for models that offer lower cost per page, higher yield, or refillable options.
• Print only what you need. Use the print preview function to check for errors, adjust the settings, and select the pages you want to print. Avoid printing unnecessary images, graphics, or ads.
• Use draft mode or grayscale mode when possible. This can reduce the amount of ink or toner used per print and increase the lifespan of your cartridges.
• Use both sides of the paper when possible. This can cut your paper consumption and costs in half.
• Recycle or reuse your paper, cartridges, and printers. You can either return them to the manufacturer, sell them to a third party, donate them to a charity, or use them for other purposes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, buying a new printer versus buying ink is not a simple decision. It depends on several factors, such as how often you print, how much ink you use, how long you plan to use the printer, how much the printer and the ink cost, and what are the environmental and social impacts of your choice. Sometimes, buying a new printer can be cheaper than buying ink for an existing printer, but not always. There are also pros and cons of each option that you need to weigh carefully. The best way to save money on printing is to compare the costs and benefits of different printers and cartridges, print only what you need, use draft mode or grayscale mode, use both sides of the paper, and recycle or reuse your paper, cartridges, and printers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about buying a new printer versus buying ink:

• Q: How do I know when to replace my ink cartridges?
• A: You can check the ink level of your cartridges by using the software that came with your printer, looking at the indicator on your printer screen, or printing a test page. You should replace your cartridges when they are low or empty, or when the print quality becomes poor.
• Q: How do I install new ink cartridges in my printer?
• A: The installation process may vary depending on your printer model and cartridge type. Generally, you need to open the cover of your printer, remove the old cartridges, insert the new cartridges in their respective slots, close the cover, and follow the instructions on your printer screen or software.
• Q: How do I refill my ink cartridges?
• A: Some ink cartridges can be refilled with compatible ink kits that you can buy online or in stores. The refill process may vary depending on your cartridge type and kit instructions. Generally, you need to locate the refill hole on your cartridge, inject the ink into it with a syringe or needle, seal the hole with tape or plug, and reinstall the cartridge in your printer.
• Q: How do I recycle my ink cartridges?
• A: Some manufacturers offer recycling programs that allow you to return your used cartridges for free or for a discount on new ones. You can also sell your used cartridges to third-party companies that will pay you cash or credit for them. Alternatively, you can donate your used cartridges to charities that will use them for fundraising or educational purposes.
• Q: How do I dispose of my old printer?
• A: Some manufacturers offer trade-in programs that allow you to exchange your old printer for a new one at a reduced price. You can also sell your old printer to third-party companies that will refurbish or resell it. Alternatively, you can donate your old printer to charities that will use it for social or environmental causes.
• Q: How do I choose a new printer?
• A: The choice of a new printer depends on your needs and preferences. Some of the factors that you should consider are:
  • Print quality: The resolution and color accuracy of your prints.
  • Print speed: The number of pages per minute that your printer can produce.
  • Paper size: The maximum size of paper that your printer can handle.
  • Connectivity: The options for connecting your printer to your devices or networks.
  • Functions: The additional features that your printer can perform besides printing.
  • Cost: The initial price and ongoing expenses of your printer.

  You should compare different models and brands based on these factors and choose the one that suits you best.

• Q: How do I maintain my printer?
• A: To keep your printer in good condition and extend its lifespan, you should:
  • Clean it regularly with a soft cloth or compressed air to remove dust and debris.
  • Replace the ink cartridges or toner when they are low or empty, or when the print quality becomes poor.
  • Use the right type and quality of paper and ink for your printer.
  • Avoid exposing your printer to extreme temperatures, humidity, or sunlight.
  • Follow the instructions and troubleshooting tips in your printer manual or software.
• Q: How do I save ink or toner on my printer?
• A: To reduce the amount of ink or toner that your printer uses, you should:
  • Print only what you need. Use the print preview function to check for errors, adjust the settings, and select the pages you want to print. Avoid printing unnecessary images, graphics, or ads.
  • Use draft mode or grayscale mode when possible. This can reduce the amount of ink or toner used per print and increase the lifespan of your cartridges.
  • Use both sides of the paper when possible. This can cut your paper consumption and costs in half.
• Q: How do I save money on printing?
• A: To save money on printing, you should:
  • Compare the cost and page yield of different printers and cartridges before buying. Look for models that offer lower cost per page, higher yield, or refillable options.
  • Print only what you need. Use the print preview function to check for errors, adjust the settings, and select the pages you want to print. Avoid printing unnecessary images, graphics, or ads.
  • Use draft mode or grayscale mode when possible. This can reduce the amount of ink or toner used per print and increase the lifespan of your cartridges.
  • Use both sides of the paper when possible. This can cut your paper consumption and costs in half.
  • Recycle or reuse your paper, cartridges, and printers. You can either return them to the manufacturer, sell them to a third party, donate them to a charity, or use them for other purposes.
• Q: How do I print from my phone or tablet?
• A: To print from your phone or tablet, you need a printer that supports wireless, Bluetooth, Ethernet, or USB connectivity. You also need an app that can access your files and send them to your printer. Some of the common apps that you can use are:
  • AirPrint: This is a built-in feature on iOS devices that allows you to print wirelessly from compatible printers without installing any drivers or software.
  • Google Cloud Print: This is a service that allows you to print from any device that is connected to the internet to any printer that is registered with Google Cloud Print.
  • HP Smart App: This is an app that allows you to print from HP printers using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or USB connections. You can also scan, copy, fax, and manage your printer settings with this app.
  • Canon Print App: This is an app that allows you to print from Canon printers using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or USB connections. You can also scan, copy, fax, and manage your printer settings with this app.
  • Epson Connect: This is a service that allows you to print from Epson printers using Wi-Fi, Ethernet, NFC, or USB connections. You can also scan, copy, fax, and manage your printer settings with this service.
  • Brother iPrint&Scan: This is an app that allows you to print from Brother printers using Wi-Fi, Ethernet, NFC, or USB connections. You can also scan, copy, fax, and manage your printer settings with this app.