There’s no doubt that new printers are more efficient and productive than old ones. But how often should you buy a new printer? Well, some printer manufacturers recommend purchasing new printers after 3 to 5 years, while others even more than that. However, there are factors to influence your decision, including a printer’s current condition and expected lifespan.
The reasons for buying a new printer may vary by user. For example, perhaps you intend to buy a printer because your printing needs have changed or your old unit has reached its end of life. Or maybe you want a more economical printer to save on costs. Well, the most important aspects to consider are the current condition and age of the old printer.
Printer lifespan: How long should your printer last?
The lifespan of a printer can vary depending on many factors, like the quality of the printer, frequency of use, and maintenance. However, most inkjet printers are designed to last 3-5 years, while laser printers can last up to ten years. But with proper care and maintenance, the printing devices can last longer.
Signs it’s time to replace your printer
Here are the signs that may indicate it’s time to replace your printer
- Frequent paper jams: When a printing device is constantly jamming or having difficulty feeding paper, the printer may be worn-out.
- Poor print quality: If your printer produces blurry, streaky, or faded prints, even after cleaning and maintenance, it’s time to upgrade to a new printer.
- Slow printing speed: When your printer takes longer than usual to print, it may be due to the printer’s age or internal wear and tear.
- Outdated technology: Does your printer lacks features like wireless connectivity or automatic duplex printing? If so, it’s time to consider a newer model.
- Expensive repairs: If repairing your printer exceeds the cost of a new printer, investing in a new one is essential.
- Incompatibility with newer devices: Is your printer compatible with newer operating systems or devices? If not, consider upgrading to a new printer.
- Excessive noise: If your printer is making more noise than usual, it may be due to internal wear and tear, signifying it’s time for a replacement.
Factors to consider when deciding to buy a new printer
A new printer can make your print job easy. But before you dispose of the older models for new ones, here are the factors to consider to buy what suits your needs.
- Printing needs: Consider your printing needs, such as the types of documents or images you plan to print, the frequency of use, and the print volume.
- Connectivity: How do you plan to connect your printer to your devices? Do you need a printer with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, or Ethernet connectivity? Choose a printer that meets your connectivity needs.
- Operation cost: Evaluate the cost of consumables, such as ink or toner cartridges, then choose a printer whose consumables are affordable and fall within your budget.
- Brand and model: Choose a reputable brand with impressive reliability and a customer support track record. Read reviews and compare features to ensure you select the suitable model.
- Size and space: Consider the size of the printer and the area where you’ll install it. Buy a printer that fits in the available space and has the right size and weight.
Choose a Tech Wise Office Printer
So, how often should you buy a new printer? The good news is that you know the factors to consider before replacing the older printer. So, ensure that the new printer fulfills your printing needs. Most importantly, get your printers from a reliable supplier like Tech Wise Office Solutions. We offer various types of printer devices at affordable prices.
Contact us today to discuss your printing needs and learn more about managed print services.
