An output device that produces hard copies of documents or images. Printers of different types, sizes are available in the market. There are various factors one should consider before buying a printer, as it is not something one would purchase often. So, the investment should be made wisely taking certain factors into consideration.

1. Purposes for buying the printer
If one just needs to print documents and files one can buy a printer that simply prints the documents. It can be a black and white printer or a colored printer. But if one also wants to scan files and makes copies of documents, then one can go for an all-in-one printer that serves all purposes. A single machine can handle the work which would have been done by different machines and also saves a lot of space. All-in-one printers are expensive compared to regular printers.

2. Types of printer
Before buying a printer one should decide the type of printer one needs.

Printers can be classified into two types:

• Laser printer
  It is a cost-effective option as the print quality is good and usually used for heavy printing in big offices.
• Inkjet printer
  It is a bit expensive as compared to laser printers as they can print colors pictures and documents. A memory card slot is also provided to print directly from digital cameras.

3. Space required by the printer
This factor has to be taken into account before buying a printer as laser printers require a bigger space as in comparison to inkjet printers.

4. Quality of the printer
While buying a printer, one should also take into consideration the quality and service provided as some printers require more ink cartridges while some last up to quite some time. Again, if a part of a printer needs to be replaced, would it be an easy task.

5. Prices range
The budget to be invested in the printer and recurring cost of ink to be used should also be taken into account before buying a printer.

6. Size of the printout
Whether one needs to just print documents and files or print large media files like posters would play a role in deciding the printer one has to purchase.

7. Connectivity options
Printers nowadays can be connected through various mediums and print outs can be taken in just a click.

Some connectivity options include:

• Wireless network
  In such printers, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is available, which allows the printer to connect to the device within a limited area and take a print out easily.
• Memory card
  Printers with the latest technology come with a memory card slot from where one can directly print pictures from a phone or camera storage.
• Cloud printing
  Cloud printing allows one to print files from anywhere in the world with just an Internet connection. One can print documents or files at the office by simply sitting at home.