What is a Good Printer for College Students?
As college students navigate their academic lives, the need for a reliable printer becomes increasingly essential. Whether you’re printing out assignments, lecture notes, or study materials, having the right printer can make all the difference. This article will explore the key features to look for in a printer for college use, compare some popular models, and provide guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Why College Students Need a Printer
While many universities and colleges offer printing facilities, having your own printer can provide several advantages:
- Convenience: Print documents whenever you need them without worrying about campus printer availability or hours.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Avoid the costs associated with printing at campus facilities, especially for large projects or frequent printing.
- Quality Control: Ensure that your documents are printed to your standards, from font size to paper quality.
- Flexibility: Print in the comfort of your dorm or apartment, especially during late-night study sessions.
- Inkjet Printers: Great for color printing and photos. Ideal for students who need to print vibrant images or color documents.
- Laser Printers: Best for black-and-white text documents. They offer faster printing speeds and lower cost per page, making them ideal for heavy text printing.
- Inkjet: 5-15 PPM for black and white, 3-10 PPM for color.
- Laser: 20-40 PPM for black and white.
- USB: Direct connection to your computer.
- Wi-Fi: Wireless printing from any device connected to the same network, including smartphones and tablets.
- Bluetooth: For direct connections with mobile devices.
- Cloud Printing: Access documents from cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Scanning and Copying: All-in-one printers can print, scan, and copy, saving space and money.
- Duplex Printing: Automatic double-sided printing can save paper and is more environmentally friendly.
- Mobile Printing: Support for apps that allow you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
- Regular Use: Use your printer regularly to prevent ink from drying out or toner from clogging.
- Clean Print Heads: Perform regular cleaning cycles to maintain print quality.
- Use Quality Paper: Invest in good-quality paper to avoid jams and ensure professional-looking prints.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your printer drivers and software for optimal performance.
- Store Properly: If not in use for an extended period, cover your printer to prevent dust accumulation.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting a printer for college, consider the following features:
1. Type of Printer
There are two main types of printers:
2. Print Quality
Look for printers that offer a minimum of 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) for clear, crisp text. If you plan to print graphics or photos, higher resolution (1200 x 1200 dpi or more) is beneficial.
3. Print Speed
Measured in pages per minute (PPM), print speed is crucial for students with tight deadlines. Aim for:
4. Connectivity Options
Modern printers offer various connectivity options:
5. Cost of Ink or Toner
Consider the ongoing costs of ink or toner cartridges. Some printers may have a lower initial cost but expensive cartridges. Look for printers with high-yield cartridges or those that offer subscription services for more economical printing.
6. Size and Portability
Dorm rooms and apartments often have limited space. Choose a printer that fits your area without dominating your workspace. Portable printers are also available for students who travel frequently.
7. Additional Features
Look for added functionalities that enhance usability:
Top Printer Recommendations for College Students
Here’s a comparison of some popular printers that are suitable for college students:
| Printer Model | Type | Print Speed (PPM) | Print Quality (DPI) | Connectivity Options | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP DeskJet 2755e | Inkjet | 7.5 (black) | 4800 x 1200 | USB, Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing | $69.99 |
| Brother HL-L2350DW | Laser | 32 (black) | 2400 x 600 | USB, Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing | $119.99 |
| Canon PIXMA TR8620 | Inkjet | 15 (black) | 4800 x 1200 | USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile | $199.99 |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2720 | Inkjet | 10 (black) | 4800 x 1200 | USB, Wi-Fi, Cloud Printing | $249.99 |
| HP LaserJet Pro M15w | Laser | 19 (black) | 600 x 600 | USB, Wi-Fi, Mobile Printing | $109.99 |
1. HP DeskJet 2755e
The HP DeskJet 2755e is a versatile inkjet printer that is affordable and user-friendly. It offers wireless connectivity and works with the HP Smart app for easy mobile printing. This printer is best for students who need to print both documents and occasional color assignments.
2. Brother HL-L2350DW
The Brother HL-L2350DW is a compact laser printer ideal for students focused on black-and-white text documents. With a fast print speed and high-quality output, it offers a low cost per page, making it economical for heavy printing needs.
3. Canon PIXMA TR8620
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 is an all-in-one inkjet printer that combines printing, scanning, and copying functionalities in a single device. It supports various connectivity options, including Bluetooth, making it perfect for tech-savvy students.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-2720
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 features a unique refillable ink tank system that significantly reduces ink costs. Although it has a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings on ink make it an excellent choice for students who print frequently.
5. HP LaserJet Pro M15w
The HP LaserJet Pro M15w is one of the smallest laser printers available, making it perfect for tight spaces. It offers fast printing speeds and high-quality text output, ideal for students who primarily print essays and reports.
Tips for Maintaining Your Printer
To ensure your printer remains in good condition throughout your college years, follow these maintenance tips:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a color printer for college?
It depends on your major and printing needs. If you need to print color presentations or graphics, a color printer is essential. For text-based documents, a black-and-white laser printer is often sufficient.
2. How much does it cost to maintain a printer?
Maintenance costs vary by printer type. Inkjet printers typically have higher ink costs, while laser printers have a lower cost per page. Always factor in the price of ink or toner cartridges when choosing a printer.
3. Can I print from my smartphone?
Yes, many modern printers support mobile printing via apps like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and manufacturer-specific apps. Ensure your printer has these capabilities if mobile printing is essential to you.
4. Is a multifunction printer worth it?
Multifunction printers (MFPs) can be a great investment for college students, as they combine printing, scanning, and copying into one device, saving space and money.
5. Should I choose an inkjet or laser printer?
If you print mostly text documents, a laser printer is a better choice due to speed and cost efficiency. If you need to print photos or color documents, an inkjet printer is more suitable.
Conclusion
Finding the right printer for college can significantly enhance your academic experience. Consider your specific needs, such as print volume, color requirements, and budget, when selecting a printer. The models listed in this article offer a range of features suitable for the diverse needs of college students. By investing in a quality printer, you can save time, money, and stress during your college years.
