LASER VS INKJET PRINTERS
Cheaper and faster Meanwhile, black and white laser printers tend to be able to print faster and cheaper than inkjet printers but are typically better suited for clients needing to print a lot of text-heavy documents, Janis adds. “Colour lasers produce very high-quality documents, but the cost per page is very high,” he says. “Laser printers can also create large quantities of plastic and electronic waste, a higher CO2 footprint impact from shipping the large cartridge boxes, and higher energy consumption during the printing process comparing to ink technology.” But as to which option is best, it comes down to the needs of the business. “Say the business’s modus operandi was an advertising firm which printed a lot of coloured imagery – they might want to opt for inkjet,” Janis says. “But if they were a law firm which needed to regularly print a lot of lengthy contracts, they might prioritise laser printers. An estate agency group might wish to have a mix to cover off both marketing materials and text-heavy documents and would go for colour laser. “A work from home and SOHO optimal would be refillable ink tank multifunctional printers with good document and photo
print capabilities, scanning and no need to purchase cartridges for year or two.”
No one-size-fits-all Richard Stewart, workspace portfolio marketing manager at Canon – which offers inkjet and laser printers – agrees that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. “Choosing between laser and inkjet printers depends on the organisation’s unique requirements, preferences and specific printing needs,” he says. When comparing the productivity and print quality of laser and inkjet printers, several factors come into play, Richard adds. “Inkjet printers require no wake-up time and offer superior printing of images and photos, they are often smaller than laser printers making them ideal in workplaces where space is at a premium,” he says. “However, laser printers often have faster printing speeds and don’t experience ink clogging. In comparison, laser printers excel in high-volume printing, producing sharp black text, and handling small fonts and fine lines with precision. So the business needs to consider the type of documents it prints the most and assess the volume and speed of output required. “Cost is another factor when it comes to evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of inkjet and laser printing for businesses. For small-scale work, inkjet printers offer affordable initial investments and produce high-quality documents and images. While laser printers are more expensive upfront, they can prove more cost-effective and reliable over a period of three to five years offering long-lasting reliable printing solutions. “In regard to sustainability, both technologies have made significant advancements in recent years becoming more energy efficient. They deliver improved performance and generate less waste, contributing to a more environmentally friendly printing ecosystem.” Crucial role With so many factors to consider – as well as options for printers – the role of the reseller in helping customers to get the right solution for their business needs is imperative. “Resellers play a crucial role in the decision-making process for businesses by offering a range of options, providing detailed information on printer features, performance, and pricing,” Richard says. “They will be able to assist in
Janis Kemers VP print and supplies TD SYNNEX
uk.tdsynnex.com
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Once printed
on a page, standard inkjet ink could be more likely to fade over
time, and not all ink prints provide water resistance.
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