Depending on the type of printer, you will need toner or ink. Both laser and inkjet printers have advantages and disadvantages.
What does your printer need: toner or ink?
Basically, if you use an inkjet printer, you need cartridges with ink. For a laser printer, you use toner.
- Depending on the printer model, the way you find the ink cartridges or toner cartridge varies.
- The easiest way is to look in the printer's user manual. If you no longer have a copy of the manual, most manuals are available for download from the manufacturer's website. The name of your printer model can usually be found on the back or bottom of the device.
- Under certain circumstances, you can still save a dried-out toner cartridge.
- Tip: If you still want to open your printer to check the toner or ink, remember to wear gloves. Toner cartridges in particular release ink. If necessary, remove this with cold water.
Before you buy: Benefits of toner and ink
If you have not yet decided whether you want to purchase a printer with toner or ink, the following tips can help you decide:
- You can get an inkjet printer as a multifunctional device with many functions for as little as 50 euros. For a laser printer you have to invest at least twice as much.
- You should take your print volume into account when making your decision. If you print a lot, a laser printer is worth it. You will also save time per page because the printing process is faster.
- A toner cartridge prints up to 3500 pages. An ink cartridge only prints around 200 pages.
- When the toner or ink runs out, you pay less for new devices than for an ink cartridge. Incidentally, the cartridge cannot dry out, unlike the cartridge.
- Conclusion: Toner is worth it if you print a lot of pages frequently. If you only print infrequently and don't want to make a big purchase, an inkjet printer is perfectly adequate.