When Should I Buy a New Printer? A Comprehensive Overview

Sometimes, having a printed version of your files makes things way easier, other times, it’s a necessity. We cannot have all backup stored on a server without any form of paper proof available because... BOOM! Your server's down, and you might be in big trouble until it's working again. That's one of the main reasons why wide format printers continue to thrive as an integral part of the workspace environment. This is why when your printer’s lifespan comes to an end, you’ll have to arrange for a new one as soon as possible.

But how long does a printer last, and what is the best time to buy a printer?

Let's answer that now.

How Long Does a Printer Last?

Normally, printers last up to 5 years; but some sturdy ones like to surprise the owner by living up to a decade! But obviously, they require maintenance and repair, plus the changing of faulty parts frequently. Nonetheless, there will be a time when you finally have to replace the previous one; it can be either because it doesn't function well or because it is outdated to match the modern needs.

And if you’re wondering about the best time of year to buy a printer, you can count on Metro Repro for the best rates throughout the year.

How Long Do Inkjet Printers Last?

Inkjet printers can last between 3 to 5 years, but it depends on the exact model that you have.

How Long Do Laser Printers Last?

Laser printers can easily last for 5 years under normal usage conditions. Note that these are mere averages; for instance, the average HP printer life expectancy may be much higher than that of a regular product.

Factors like usage intensity and maintenance should also be taken into account.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Printer?

Now that we’ve discussed the average lifespan of a printer, let's move on to when you should buy a new printer. Here are a few common scenarios: 

Printer No Longer Meets Your Needs

Does your printer still fit your requirements to a T? If yes, then what's the need for a new one! However, workplaces that are equipped with older inkjets or laser printers may be facing some difficulties. Some old printers can only print, and that's it. But you might need to scan and fax as well. Instead of purchasing a separate machine that will do the aforementioned and take up a lot of your place, it would be better to buy a printer that does it all.

There’s no single answer to “when is the best time to buy a printer,” it all depends on your needs.

Poor-Quality Printing

If your color prints look cheap and low in quality even after using cleaning function and high maintenance, then it’s high time you buy a new printer.

Prints in Insufficient Speed

If you have a bygone printer way past its printer lifespan, then its printing rate is most likely not what it used to be. Also, you might simply need a lot more copies now than in the past. Present-day printers have a printing speed of 20ppm to 40ppm; anything below might be considered slow.

High Cost of Ink Cartridges

The cost of cartridges may become way too pricey (as if the printer is eating them up) once the product is past its lifespan.

Mechanical Components are Worn

Another inducement to replace your device is that maintenance and repair may start costing you a fortune. This is common for a model that has grown older than the average lifespan of a printer. It may also be too late to fix the machine because some parts of the previous printers are difficult to get your hands on. The company may have stopped producing them, so they will cost pretty high. If that's the case, then instead of paying hundreds of dollars to upgrade or maintain the senior one, look for a cost-effective modern-day option with a warranty. Nobody wants to own a printer that makes weird noises.

Technology becomes Obsolete

Latest technologies are popping out, replacing their predecessors gradually. One is flabbergasted when looking at the features new technologies inherit. State-of-the-art printers are at hand in the marketplace with better printer lifespans.

Metro Repro Is Here with Top Printer Solutions

Now that you know when is the best time of year to buy a printer, it’s time to get in touch with the supplier of premium printers and printing supplies for your office - Metro Repro. We will help you make the best of your equipment with our printer/plotter and scanner products for sale in:

• Texas
• Arkansas
• Louisiana
• Oklahoma 

Get in touch today, and let’s discuss your needs.