Q: What Are Your General Printer Recommendations?

A: Everyone's needs are different, but here is what I tell my clients when they ask about what kind of printer to buy:

If you NEED color, get it, but if you don't NEED it, don't because it's expensive.  In particular, watch out for color laser printers, because the toner refills get expensive, quickly.  A complete set of toner refills (three colors plus black) can cost as much as the printer!  The reason is the manufacturer will lose money on the initial sale, knowing that they will make it up in toner or ink sales on the back end.

I generally prefer a good inexpensive laser printer to a fancy inkjet printer with tons of features (and software!) that you don't need and won't use.  For a great all-in-one laser printer that will print, scan, and fax, check out the HP Laserjet Multi-Function series.  I own two myself and have sold a number for homes and small offices, and people love them.

If you are not going to print very much, be careful with inkjet printers!  The cartridges will clog after just a week or so of non-use.  It can get expensive fast when you are throwing away cartridges with plenty of ink that are just clogged up due to non-use.

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