How to Buy a Printer

Introduction

No matter how digital our lives become, printers remain essential in any office and convenient at home for schoolwork, maps, fliers, and photos. PC World tests and reviews three types of printers--inkjets, color lasers, and snapshot models--on an ongoing basis. We also regularly test multifunction printers, both inkjet and laser. No matter which kind of printer you're looking for, here's the information you need to make a well-informed purchase.

The Big Picture From inexpensive snapshot units and inkjets to high-end color lasers, printers are designed to do different jobs. Here's how they stack up, feature by feature. more

Key Specs Explained We unravel the mysteries of print speed, print quality, cost of ownership, and maximum resolution--and tell you which specs are really important. more

Printer Shopping Tips Whether you want an inkjet to print documents and newsletters at home, a snapshot printer to output photos and postcards, or a laser printer to take care of the needs of your whole office, we have recommendations to make your purchase easier. more