Color Printers

A color printer can produce images of multiple colors. Most cheaper color printers have just 2 cartridges, one for black and the other with the 3 colors (red, blue and yellow) that are mixed to give the required color. Others will have one cartridge for each color and so have at least 4 cartridges. Canon color printers are best known for this in their mid range prices printers, and other companies like Epson have followed this startegy. This also significantly reduces the total cost of operation for the color printer. Check the specs pages on the models you are interested in. Various providers (like Canon, HP, Epson, Brother, Xerox) use differering technologies in their one color printers (mono), multifunction printers and photo printers. These may use inks (inkjet) or toner (laser), and consequently their management, cost of consumables and ease of maintainence need to be fully investigated. Many of our advertisers will give significant detail on their products in their specifications pages, so look closely at these. A photo printer is a color printer that can produce images that mimic the color range and resolution of photographic methods of printing. The majority of photo printers use additional cartridges, of either speciality photo inks or just variations on the standard color cartridges.The increased range of colors produces better results, while the increased use of black or gray colors enhances black and white prints. Epson, Canon and HP printers all have different types of photo printer ink that have will last over 100 years.

Laser and Bubble Jet Printers

Consider your specific needs when looking to our advertisers for a product. Be aware of whether you are best served by a small, medium or larger printer. Know what your printing volume will be, quality of print required and whether you need a dedicated color inkjet (or laserjet printer), or a multifunction printer. If you are wanting lower volume but photgraphic quality then the color inkjet printers, especially the color photo printers are perfect. For higher volume you may be best considering the laserjet printers. HP, Brother Ricoh, and Xerox laser color printers are top quality, some even matched into duplexing or multifunction devices. These larger systems are ideal for networking and office applications, usually taking over the role of photocopiers, fax, scanner, and other office duties. With an effective maintainence schedule these all in one color printers run trouble free for years. Although not often discussed it is very important to look for the nearest service company associated with your printers. Some of them like the color duplex laser printers can require significant technical expertise to service, and they must be serviced regularly to perform at their best. So when you compare printers our advertisers offer ask about their backup and support procedures in your area.