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The Best Printer for 2021: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
Finding the best printer can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one? Whether you need a printer for home use, your small business, or to print high-quality photos, this guide will help you navigate the landscape of printers. In this review, we will discuss various types of printers, their key features, and what makes each stand out. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the best printer options available today.
Understanding Different Types of Printers
Inkjet Printers: Versatile and Affordable
Inkjet printers are among the most popular choices for home users. They are versatile and can handle everything from documents to high-quality photos. If you're on a budget, an inkjet printer is often the best option. With advancements in technology, many inkjet printers now offer features like wireless connectivity and mobile printing.
Laser Printers: Speed and Efficiency
If you print a lot of documents, a laser printer might be the best choice for you. Laser printers are known for their speed and efficiency. They can produce a high volume of prints quickly and often have lower cost-per-page compared to inkjet printers. This makes them an excellent option for small businesses or home offices that need to print frequently.
All-in-One Printers: The Ultimate Convenience
All-in-one printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing into a single device. This makes them perfect for those who need a multifunctional solution without taking up too much space. Many all-in-one printers come with wireless features, allowing you to print from your smartphone or tablet, adding to their convenience.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Printer
Print Quality: Making Every Detail Count
When searching for the best printer, print quality is a crucial factor. Look for printers that offer high resolution, especially if you plan to print photos or detailed graphics. A printer with at least 4800 x 1200 dpi will ensure your prints look sharp and vibrant.
Speed: Getting Your Prints When You Need Them
Print speed is another important consideration. If you often find yourself in a hurry, you'll want a printer that can deliver fast results. Look for printers that can print at least 20 pages per minute for black and white documents. For color prints, a speed of 10 pages per minute is a good benchmark.
Connectivity Options: Print from Anywhere
In today's digital age, having multiple connectivity options is vital. Most modern printers offer USB connections, but you may also want to consider wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These features allow you to print directly from your devices without the need for cables, making the printing process more convenient.
Cost of Replacement Ink: Don’t Break the Bank
One often-overlooked aspect of owning a printer is the cost of replacement ink or toner. Before making a decision, research the cost of replacement cartridges for the models you are considering. Some printers may have a lower initial price but can end up costing you more in the long run due to expensive ink.
Top Printer Recommendations
Best Overall Printer: HP Envy 6055
The HP Envy 6055 stands out as the best overall printer for home use. It offers excellent print quality, a user-friendly interface, and a compact design. With wireless connectivity, you can easily print from your smartphone or tablet. The HP Smart app also makes it easy to manage your printing needs from anywhere.
Best Laser Printer: Brother HL-L2350DW
For those who need a reliable laser printer, the Brother HL-L2350DW is an excellent choice. It offers fast print speeds, high-quality output, and a compact design that fits well in small spaces. The automatic duplexing feature saves paper, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Best All-in-One Printer: Canon PIXMA TR8620
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 is a top pick for an all-in-one printer. It offers impressive print quality and a variety of features, including scanning and copying capabilities. With its intuitive touchscreen interface and wireless connectivity, it's perfect for home offices and busy households.
Best for Photos: Epson SureColor P400
If you're passionate about photography, the Epson SureColor P400 is the best printer for you. It delivers stunning prints with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The wide color gamut and advanced ink technology make it ideal for professional-grade photo printing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best printer requires careful consideration of your specific needs and budget. Whether you opt for an inkjet, laser, or all-in-one printer, each type has its unique advantages. By focusing on key features like print quality, speed, connectivity, and cost of replacement ink, you can make an informed decision. Remember, the right printer can make a world of difference in your daily tasks, so take your time to choose wisely. Happy printing!
Get Performance Beyond Laser with the WorkForce WF-3640, powered by PrecisionCore. Maximum Copy Size:8.5" x 14" (PC-free)
Save time - Professional-quality prints with speeds of 19 ISO ppm (black) and 10 ISO ppm (color)
Save up to 40 percent lower printing cost vs. color laser
Print anywhere, anytime - from iPad, iPhone, tablets and smartphones; includes wireless and Wi-Fi Direct
Do more - auto 2-sided print, copy, scan and fax; plus 35-page Auto Document Feeder
Never run out of ink again - Printer features Amazon Dash Replenishment which, after activation, keeps track of your ink usage and orders more from Amazon when you are running low.