Splurge Now, Save Later: Your Budget Guide to Printer Purchases as Per Stiftung Warentest
Efficient Printer Ideally Suits Foundation's Needs
Diving into the world of printers can be an overwhelming experience with a plethora of options available. From sub-100 to almost 500 euros, the question is: which one should you pick? Stiftung Warentest is here to help crack the code.
Time's the Factor, Not Spending Much
Waiting long for your printer to print or rushing to buy one because of printer costs? Stiftung Warentest recommends considering how often and for what purpose you'll be using the printer. If printing is an occasional task, a more affordable printer with a higher per-print cost may still be cost-effective over time. Conversely, if printing volumes are high, a pricier but cost-efficient printer could quickly pay for itself.
Special Features: Use 'em or Lose 'em?
Many printers offer scanning, copying, and other advanced functionalities. If you seldom or never utilize these features, you might save some coins by opting for a print specialist rather than a versatile, multi-function device. The cost difference between the two isn't substantial.
The Printer Catalogue: A Must-Have
Stiftung Warentest's extensive test list is your go-to for keeping track and making a tailored selection. After testing over 213 currently available printers, 28 devices have received top marks, with prices ranging from approximately 190 to 560 euros.
Inkjet Printers: The Game Changers
Best Overall: Canon Maxify GX6550
Earning a quality rating of 1.9, Canon Maxify GX6550 is a standout multifunction inkjet printer. With excellent printing, scanning, and copying capabilities and eco-friendly power consumption, it's a worthy investment if used regularly. Stiftung Warentest estimates an average online price of 525 euros but lists it for less than 450 euros. Thanks to its low printing costs, this device could help you save in the long run.
Cheaper Alternatives: Epson Ecotank ET-4850 & Ecotank ET-2860
The Epson Ecotank ET-4850 (around 380 euros) and ET-2860 (priced at around 180 euros) are equally affordable yet high-performing alternatives. While the ET-4850 is the top photo printer, the ET-2860 offers similar printing capabilities, albeit with fewer copying functions. Several other printers received the same overall rating, making price your deciding factor.
Laser Printers: The Low-Cost Contenders
Canon MAXIFY GX5550: Small Footprint, Big Value
Although pricier at around 370 euros, the Canon MAXIFY GX5550 boasts low ink costs and excellent printing quality. Its slim design is its main advantage over multifunction devices. Ideal for light use, it's a cost-effective option if you mainly focus on printing and have limited storage space.
Black & White Printers: The Affordable Wonders
Black and white laser printers can help you save even more. The Canon i-Sensys MF264dw II, a multifunction device with a quality rating of 2.2, offers excellent printing at approximately 330 euros. Save even more with the Canon i-SENSYS LBP246dw, a single-function black and white printer, costing just under 230 euros.
Home or Office: The Price Matters
Still not sure which printer best suits you? Consider factors like printing volume, desired features, and budget constraints. For high-volume printing, inkjet printers may be the way to go, but for offices needing black and white printing, laser printers offer faster speeds and better quality.
Sources: ntv.de, kwe
- Stiftung Warentest
- Home Office
- Technology Reviews
Enrichment Insights:- For home use, cost-effective printers like the HP Smart Tank 5105 or 7305 offer affordable refills and good performance.- Office printers like the HP Color LaserJet MFP 4302dwt are deemed suitable for heavy-duty printing with fast speeds, good print quality, and moderate print costs.- When making a printer selection, be aware of factors like printing volume, desired features, and budget, while considering tintentankdrucker (inkjet printers) for high volume printing and laserdrucker (laser printers) for offices.
- For home users seeking cost-effective printers, the HP Smart Tank 5105 or 7305 might be suitable, as they offer affordable refills and good performance.
- When it comes to office needs, printers like the HP Color LaserJet MFP 4302dwt are deemed suitable for heavy-duty printing, as they offer fast speeds, good print quality, and moderate print costs.
- When making a printer selection, one should consider factors like printing volume, desired features, and budget. For high-volume printing, consider inkjet printers, and for offices, consider laser printers.
- As mentioned by Stiftung Warentest, if printing is an occasional task, a more affordable printer with a higher per-print cost may still be cost-effective over time, provided the total cost does not exceed the benefits received from the printer.
