What to Consider About Printer Running Costs

When buying a printer, most people look first at the price tag. A cheap printer may seem like a good deal, but in reality, the purchase price is only a small fraction of the total cost. Over time, ongoing expenses can easily exceed the original investment.

That’s why the concept of TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) is so important for printers. TCO considers not only the device itself but also consumables, maintenance, energy, and downtime.

For home users, the wrong printer may lead to paying much more per page than necessary. For businesses, uncontrolled printing costs can mean thousands of dollars lost every year.

This guide breaks down the major cost factors, compares printer types, and shows how Lexmark devices help reduce expenses with reliable, efficient technology.

1. Why the Purchase Price Isn’t the Most Important Factor

Buying the cheapest printer can be misleading:

• Inkjet cartridges are often extremely expensive,
• Low-capacity cartridges need frequent replacement,
• Maintenance costs can be high.

For example, a $100 inkjet printer might lead to $500–$600 in yearly ink expenses, while a $150–$200 monochrome laser printer (like the Lexmark B series) can cut costs by more than half.

2. The Main Components of Printer Running Costs

2.1. Consumables – toner and drums

• Toner cartridges determine your cost per page.
• Imaging drums need replacement every 10,000–30,000 pages.

Lexmark original toner cartridges offer high yields, often lasting tens of thousands of pages, which reduces replacements and overall costs.

2.2. Paper

Paper is one of the most underestimated costs. An office printing 100,000 pages annually spends more on paper than on the printer itself.

2.3. Electricity

Laser printers consume more power while printing than inkjets, but Lexmark devices include efficient Sleep Mode to cut energy use during idle time.

2.4. Maintenance and repairs

Paper jams, worn rollers, and software issues create downtime. Regular maintenance and using genuine supplies reduce the likelihood of breakdowns.

3. TCO – The True Long-Term Cost

TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) considers:

• Purchase price,
• Consumables,
• Maintenance,
• Electricity,
• Downtime and lost productivity.

Example (5-year TCO, 10,000 pages per year):

The difference is dramatic—laser printers are significantly cheaper in the long run.

4. Home vs Office – Different Needs, Different Costs

Home users

• Print volume: 500–2,000 pages annually,
• Low-cost inkjets may still create high per-page expenses,
• Monochrome laser printers are usually the better choice for reliable, low-cost printing.

Small businesses

• Print volume: 10,000–30,000 pages annually,
• Need multifunction devices with scanning and copying,
• A Lexmark MB2236adw provides low cost-per-page and wireless convenience.

Large offices

• Print volume: 100,000+ pages annually,
• Require high durability and professional service contracts,
• Lexmark Cloud Print Management helps monitor and reduce unnecessary printing.

5. Inkjet vs Laser Printer Cost Comparison

6. The Lexmark Advantage in Cost Management

Lexmark devices are designed to keep running costs under control:

• High-yield cartridges that last longer,
• Sustainability programs for cartridge and drum recycling,
• Confidential Print to reduce unnecessary printing,
• Lexmark Cloud Print Management for tracking and optimizing print jobs.

7. How to Reduce Running Costs

1. Use duplex (double-sided) printing – saves up to 50% of paper.
2. Default to monochrome when color isn’t needed.
3. Educate employees – prevent double printing and abandoned jobs.
4. Leverage Lexmark mobile apps to control jobs directly from devices.
5. Choose the right printer for your volume – undersized devices cost more through frequent breakdowns and replacements.

8. Hidden Cost Factors

Businesses often overlook indirect costs:

• Downtime – when printers fail, productivity drops,
• Security risks – sensitive documents left on printers can lead to fines (e.g., GDPR compliance),
• Sustainability – unnecessary printing raises both costs and environmental impact.

Lexmark devices address these with robust security, reliability, and energy efficiency.

9. Conclusion

Printer running costs depend on usage volume and device type. A cheap printer at the point of purchase often ends up being the most expensive over its lifetime.

• For homes: a reliable monochrome laser avoids excessive ink costs.
• For small businesses: multifunction laser printers with Wi-Fi provide the best balance.
• For large offices: print management systems and enterprise-class devices are essential.

Lexmark printers stand out as long-term investments—offering low cost-per-page, high durability, and features that minimize waste.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a cheap printer more expensive long-term?

Yes. High consumable costs and frequent issues make “bargain” printers more expensive.

How much does a page cost with a laser printer?

Usually 2–3 cents, compared to 10–15 cents with inkjets.

Do drums always need to be purchased separately?

On many models, yes. Lexmark devices notify users when it’s time to replace.

Is paper really such a large part of costs?

Yes. In high-volume offices, paper often exceeds toner expenses.

How can businesses track costs?

Lexmark Cloud Print Management tracks print volumes per user and prevents excessive printing.

Do home users need to calculate TCO?

Not always, but regular printers should definitely compare costs.

Can mobile printing reduce waste?

Yes. It prevents duplicate jobs and improves print control.

Is an inkjet ever cheaper?

Only if printing fewer than 100 pages per year.

Do energy-saving modes matter?

Yes. In offices, energy savings add up significantly over time.

Does Lexmark offer service contracts?

Yes. These reduce unexpected repair costs and extend device life.