Reliable Printer Suitable for Foundation Operations
In the market for a new printer? With options ranging from 50 to 500 euros, the question is whether an expensive device is worth the investment or a budget model is the way to go. Stiftung Warentest can help you make the right choice.
Choose wisely based on usage
When shopping for a new printer, it's essential to consider various factors. If you mainly print text or need color printing, paying extra for a photo print function may be worth it.
Multifunction printers versus print specialists
Most devices available are multifunction printers offering scanning, copying, and printing capabilities. If you don't need these extra features, opting for a print specialist may be more budget-friendly, but the price difference with the versatile price-performance winners isn't considerable.
Inkjet and Laser Printers: The Best of Both Worlds
Multifunction Inkjet Printers
For the best overall multifunctional inkjet printer, the Canon Maxify GX6550 takes the crown. Its high-quality printing, scanning, and copying capabilities, eco-friendly properties, and economical ink costs make it a top choice for regular users. While the Stiftung Warentest lists its median online price at 525 euros, it can often be found for under 450 euros.
The Epson Ecotank ET-4850 is another excellent option, offering high-quality color printing, ease of use, and competitively low ink costs. Priced around 380 euros, it's a more affordable alternative while still winning the test with the same overall score.
Budget Inkjet Printers
If you prioritize the copy function, the Epson Ecotank ET-2860 is a budget-friendly alternative, costing about 180 euros. Several other printers received the same overall rating, such as the Ecotank ET-2864 and 2865, ensuring you can find an affordable option to fit your needs.
Multifunction Laser Printers
While a good quality color multifunction laser printer only achieved a good quality rating (2.5), the Canon i-Sensys MF657Cdw still impresses with its printing and copying capabilities. Its toner costs and environmental properties were rated as satisfactory, and it's rarely found for under 400 euros.
Monochrome Laser Printers
When it comes to monochrome laser printers, the Canon i-Sensys MF264dw II leads as the top multifunctional device. It offers excellent print, copy, and scan quality, as well as affordability, for 330 euros.
The best black and white print specialist is the Canon i-SENSYS LBP246dw, available for just under 230 euros. It outperformed competitors in all areas tested.
Key Factors for Choosing Printers
- Printing Needs: Determine if you require an inkjet or laser printer for your primary use.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Consider the cost per page, with laser printers often having a lower cost per page for black and white printing and inkjet printers being cheaper upfront for color tasks.
- Print Speed and Quality: If speed is important, laser printers tend to be faster, while inkjet printers offer better quality color printing.
- Maintenance Costs: Opt for inkjet printers with refillable ink tanks to save money in the long run.
For the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations, check Stiftung Warentest's latest issues or their online database for specific printer tests and ratings. Stiftung Warentest, Home Office, Technology Tests
References:[1] ntv.de, kwe.[2] computerbild.de, Handelsblatt.[3] stiftung-warteschutz.de.[4] stiftung-warteschutz.de, testliste.
- When pondering over a new printer, one should weigh the costs of high-end models against their potential long-term benefits, as Stiftung Warentest's top picks in printers span a range of 50 to 500 euros.
- The Canon Maxify GX6550, a multifunction inkjet printer, leads in overall quality and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for regular users, despite having a median online price of 525 euros.
- Budget-conscious buyers may find the Epson Ecotank ET-2860, a budget-friendly inkjet printer, suitable for their needs, priced at approximately 180 euros.
- Tech enthusiasts might prefer exploring options like the Canon i-Sensys MF657Cdw, a color multifunction laser printer, though its price often exceeds 400 euros.
