How Do You Know When its Time for a New Printer?

Saying goodbye to your printer is never easy, especially if it seems to be working fairly well. However, failing to replace or upgrade your printer at the right time could translate into tech headaches and hours of downtime later on. Here are some signs it’s time for a new printer:

Poor Print Quality

Inconsistent or poor print quality is often the first indication that your printer may need replacing. Common problems are poor ink application, fainted print, blurry or no print. If you’re experiencing any of these issues then make sure to check your printer heads before investing in a new printer. Dirty printer heads and low ink supply could also be the culprits behind poor print quality. If everything appears fine, and you’re still getting low-quality prints, it’s time to start looking for a new printer.

On average, repair costs exceed the original cost of printers by 3 times.

Insufficient Speed

Slow printing is another sign you may need a new printer. Printer speeds generally range from 1 to 50 pages per minute (PPM). Higher PPM counts are typical of more expensive models. Printers with noticeably slower printing usually need to be upgraded or replaced. Before you invest in a new printer, however, make sure you have the latest software updates installed. Outdated software can cause slow printing and overall poor print quality.

Higher Cartridge/Printing Costs

Cartridge costs can be another determining factor in printer replacement. Older printers burn through ink and toner faster than many newer models. If you’re spending a significant amount of your budget on ink or toner for an older printer, it could be time for an upgrade. This will help you cut operational costs.

Growing Needs

Sometimes your needs outgrow your current printer, often at work or home offices. Older models may not have all the functionality you need or be capable of keeping up with increased printing volume. Your business may also have other printing needs that cannot be accommodated by an older printer. Most printer models made after 2013 offer near-photographic quality, wireless networking and the capability to read removable media. If you can benefit from any of these offerings, investing in a newer model could be a great business decision.

Many people are apprehensive to replace a printer that appears to be in working condition. However, proactively solving your printing problems and upgrading your equipment could save a lot of time and money later on. Also, repair components could become obsolete in the not so distant future. Pay attention to your printing, and decide if you could benefit from a newer model.

Local Experts

If you’re shopping for a new printer for home or business, come to any of our more 1,000 locations globally for independent advice from a local printing expert. We take the time to listen to your needs and will help you find the right printer for you. Find a Cartridge World store near you.