What Is a Laser Printer | Everything you need to know
24th Apr 2024
Simon Cross
How Does a Laser Printer Work?
We understand how important it is for you to choose the right printer, and that starts with understanding how they work. So, let's take a peek inside and see the magic of laser printing happen!
Breakdown of mechanics
What are they?
Laser printers work like magic, but the process is quite technical. A laser acts like a super fine-tipped marker, drawing your digital document onto a special drum.
This creates an electric charge where the laser hits. Next, powdered toner, like tiny black magnets, are attracted only to the charged areas of the drum.
The toner image is then transferred to a sheet of paper feeding through the printer. Finally, heat and pressure fuse the toner onto the paper, creating your crisp, sharp document.
Why is this important to consider when buying a laser printer?
The laser beam's precision and the dry toner process contribute to laser printers' exceptional printing speeds. This is crucial if you frequently print large documents or need fast turnaround times.
While the upfront cost of a laser printer might be higher than an inkjet, toner cartridges last significantly longer. This translates to a lower cost per page, especially for black and white printing.
Key steps (toner, drum, fuser) of how laser printing works
- Step 1 Your computer sends your document to the printer. Inside, a laser gets to work, acting like a super-focused flashlight.
- Step 2 The laser "draws" your document onto a special drum coated with a light-sensitive material. Where the light hits, the drum gets an electric charge.
- Step 3 Like tiny black magnets (or coloured ones for colour printers!), toner powder is attracted to the electrically charged areas on the drum.
- Step 4 The drum rolls past a transfer roller, which picks up the toner image like a copy machine.
- Step 5 A sheet of paper feeds through the printer and makes contact with the transfer roller. The toner image is now on the paper!
- Step 6 The paper travels through a hot fuser unit. Here, intense heat and pressure act like a laminator, melting the toner and fusing it to the paper.
- Step 7 The toner is now permanently fixed to the paper, creating your crisp, sharp document – just like the ones you get from us here at IJT.
- Step 8 After each print job, the printer uses a cleaning mechanism to remove any leftover toner, ensuring smooth operation for the next print.
- Step 9 The drum continuously rotates inside the printer, ready for the next laser light show and toner transfer.
- Step 10 The printer waits for your next command, ready to deliver high-quality prints whenever you need them.
Definition of a laser printer
A laser printer uses a laser beam and toner powder to create high-quality prints known for their speed and sharp text.
Benefits Of a Laser Printer
Laser printers have earned their reputation as workhorses in the printing world. But what exactly makes them so beneficial? Let's dive into some key advantages that might make a laser printer the ideal choice for your home or office:
Speed
You need a large report printed right away. With a laser printer, waiting won't be an issue. Laser printers are known for their exceptional printing speeds.
This is thanks to laser beam technology. Unlike inkjets that have to fire tiny jets of ink, a laser beam can rapidly "draw" the image onto the drum, significantly speeding up the process.
So, if you frequently print large documents, presentations, or need fast turnaround times on printing jobs, a laser printer's speed can be a game-changer. It eliminates waiting and keeps your workflow moving smoothly.
Cost effectiveness
While the upfront cost of a laser printer might be higher than an inkjet printer, don't be fooled. Laser printers offer a lower cost per page in the long run.
Here's why:
Toner cartridges, which hold the laser printer's "ink," last significantly longer than inkjet cartridges because they are made with powder. You'll need to replace them less frequently, even with high-volume printing.
If you print a considerable amount, especially black and white documents then a laser printer's lower cost per page can give you substantial savings over time.
Consider the number of pages you typically print and factor in the cost per page of potential printers before making your decision.
Durability
Laser printers are generally more robust and require less maintenance compared to inkjet printers. The toner powder is dry and less prone to drying out or clogging printheads, which can be a common issue with inkjets.
If you need a printer you can rely on for consistent use, a laser printer's durability can be a major benefit. Fewer maintenance hassles and a longer lifespan mean you can focus on printing what you need, when you need it.
Toner longevity
As mentioned earlier, toner cartridges in laser printers boast impressive longevity. Unlike inkjet cartridges that can dry out if unused for extended periods, toner powder remains stable, ensuring your printer is ready to print even after sitting idle for a while.
With a single toner cartridge lasting for thousands of pages compared to hundreds for some inkjet cartridges, you'll spend less time and money on replacements. This translates to a more convenient and cost-effective printing experience.
Are Laser Printers Expensive?
Laser printers can have a higher upfront cost compared to inkjet printers. Here's a breakdown to help you understand why:
Upfront costs of laser printers
Are laser printers expensive to buy?
Yes, the initial purchase price of a laser printer might be steeper. There are a few reasons for this:
Laser printers use more complex technology compared to inkjets. The laser beam assembly, drum unit, and fuser unit all contribute to the higher cost.
Laser printers are built to last. They often have sturdier components and higher quality materials to handle frequent printing tasks, adding to the overall cost.
While toner cartridges themselves can be expensive upfront, they hold significantly more toner powder than inkjet cartridges. This means more prints, and more value for money.
Key points:
- Don't solely focus on the initial price tag. Consider the cost per page and how much you typically print.
- Laser printers can be a wise investment for high-volume printing needs, as the lower cost per page can save you money in the long run.
Costs of running a laser printer
Are toner cartridges expensive to buy?
Yes, toner cartridges can seem expensive compared to inkjet cartridges. Toner cartridges hold a significantly larger amount of toner powder than inkjet cartridges hold ink.
This translates to a much higher page yield, meaning you can print thousands of pages with a single toner cartridge.
Laser toner is a dry powder, minimising waste and evaporation unlike liquid inkjet inks. This translates to more pages printed per cartridge. Technically, it’s more eco-friendly as well.
Key points:
- Look beyond the initial toner price. Factor in the page yield and cost per page for a more accurate picture.
- High-capacity cartridges and generic toners (if compatible and high-quality) can help reduce running costs.
- Consider your printing volume to estimate how often you'll need to replace toner cartridges.
How much is a laser printer?
The cost of a laser printer can vary depending on features and functionality. Here's a breakdown to give you an idea:
Average price range:
- £100 to £300: This range includes basic black and white laser printers with limited features.
- £300 to £500: This range offers more features like faster printing speeds, higher paper capacity, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- £500 and Up: This range includes high-end laser printers with multifunction capabilities (scanning, copying, faxing), colour printing, and advanced features.
Performance Of a Laser Printer
Laser printers have earned a reputation for their impressive performance. Let's jump straight into some key areas where laser printers excel:
Print quality for laser printers
Whether you're printing important business documents, schoolwork, or even high-quality photos (with some colour laser printers). You are going to want to have a high quality print.
Laser printing technology excels at producing sharp, clear text. This is ideal for documents like resumes, presentations, reports, or any situation where clarity is paramount.
Also, laser toner bonds with the paper through heat and pressure, resulting in prints that are resistant to fading and smudging over time. This is important for documents you need to keep for extended periods.
Print speeds for laser printers
Why does print speeds matter?
Waiting for documents to print can disrupt your workflow. Laser printers' fast speeds help you get things done quicker. This is especially crucial in fast-paced environments like offices or busy households.
If you frequently need to print large documents or presentations on short notice, a laser printer's speed can be a lifesaver. No more scrambling to meet deadlines because of slow printing.
How fast are laser printers?
Laser printers are known for their impressive printing speeds, typically ranging from:
- 15 to 30 pages per minute (ppm): This range covers many basic and mid-range laser printers.
- 30+ ppm: High-performance laser printers can reach speeds exceeding 30 ppm, ideal for high-volume printing needs.
Duty cycle for laser printers
Why does duty cycle matter?
The duty cycle refers to the recommended number of pages a printer can handle in a month without excessive wear and tear. Think of it as the printer's workload capacity.
Knowing the duty cycle helps you choose a printer that can handle your printing needs. Matching your typical print volume to a suitable duty cycle ensures optimal performance and longevity for your printer.
For Example:
- If you print occasionally at home (around 50 pages per month), a basic laser printer with a lower duty cycle (1,000 – 2,000 pages per month) might be sufficient.
- For a busy office with frequent printing needs (several thousand pages per month), a high-duty cycle laser printer (30,000+ pages per month) would be a more suitable choice.
Paper handling
Why does it matter?
Paper handling refers to a printer's ability to feed, manage, and output paper. This includes the paper tray capacity (how much paper it can hold) and the types of paper it can handle (plain paper, envelopes, cardstock, etc.).
A good paper handling system ensures smooth printing without jams or misfeeds. Considering the paper types you typically use and the volume you print can help you choose a printer with appropriate paper handling capabilities.
Reliability of laser printers
Why does it matter?
Unexpected printer problems can disrupt your workflow and productivity. A reliable laser printer helps you avoid these frustrations and ensures your printing needs are met when you need them.
Knowing your printer can handle your printing tasks without frequent breakdowns gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on what matters most.
How reliable are laser printers?
Laser printers use a dry toner process with fewer moving parts compared to inkjet printers that rely on liquid ink and complex printheads. This reduces the risk of clogs or jams.
Another factor is that laser printers are often built with sturdier materials to withstand frequent printing. This translates to a longer lifespan and fewer repairs over time.
What Are The Features Of a Laser Printer?
Connectivity
Most laser printers offer USB connectivity for a direct connection to your computer. However, many models also include Wi-Fi or Ethernet for wireless printing from various devices, increasing convenience and flexibility.
Wireless connectivity allows you to print from laptops, tablets, and smartphones, eliminating the need for a physical cable connection. This is ideal for shared printing in an office or home environment.
Multifunction
Many laser printers are multifunction devices, offering capabilities like scanning, copying, and faxing in addition to printing. This can save space and simplify workflows by combining several functions into a single unit.
If you need to scan documents, copy papers, or send faxes frequently, a multifunction laser printer can streamline your workflow and reduce the need for separate devices.
Size of laser printers
Laser printers come in various sizes. Basic models can be quite compact, while high-performance multifunction printers with larger paper capacities can have a bigger footprint.
Consider the available space where you plan to use the printer. If portability is a concern, a smaller model might be ideal. However, if you need high paper capacity or multifunctionality, a larger printer might be necessary.
Colour printing
While black and white laser printers are more common, colour laser printers offer the ability to print stunning graphics and photos.
If you need to print marketing materials, presentations, or high-quality photos, a colour laser printer can deliver exceptional results. However, colour toner cartridges can be more expensive than black and white toners.
Duplex printing
Duplex printing allows you to print on both sides of the paper automatically. This can save paper and reduce printing costs over time.
Going duplex is not only eco-friendly, but it can also help you save money on paper, especially for documents with multiple pages.
Laser Printers Vs Inkjet Printers
Overview
Choosing between a laser printer and an inkjet printer can feel overwhelming. Both offer distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs. Here's a breakdown to help you decide.
Inkjet printers:
Pros:
- Inkjet printers tend to be cheaper to purchase than laser printers.
- Inkjet printers often deliver exceptional photo quality with a wider range of colours compared to laser printers.
- Many inkjet printers are smaller and lighter than laser printers, making them ideal for limited space.
Cons:
- Inkjet ink cartridges can be expensive, especially for frequent printing, leading to a higher cost per page compared to laser printers.
- These printers are generally slower than laser printers, especially for large print jobs.
- Cartridges can be prone to clogged print heads if not used regularly, leading to printing issues and wasted ink.
Laser printers:
Pros:
- Laser printers are significantly faster than inkjet printers, making them ideal for high-volume printing needs.
- Laser printers excel at producing professional-looking documents with sharp text and defined lines.
- While toner cartridges can be expensive upfront, they hold significantly more toner and offer a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, especially for black and white printing.
- Laser printers are generally more robust and require less maintenance than inkjet printers.
Cons:
- Laser printers typically have a higher upfront purchase price compared to inkjet printers.
- While some colour laser printers offer good photo printing, they may not achieve the same level of vibrancy as high-quality inkjet printers.
- Laser printers tend to be bigger and heavier than inkjet printers.
Are Laser Printers Easy To Use?
Laser printers are generally considered user-friendly. Setting up a laser printer is a manageable process with clear instructions and easy-to-install toner cartridges. Connectivity options like Wi-Fi and mobile printing add convenience, and the control panels are designed for intuitive navigation.
Set up process
Most laser printers come with clear instructions and user guides to guide you through the setup process. Things like installing the toner cartridges is generally straightforward. Many cartridges simply slide into designated slots.
Connectivity
Many laser printers offer both USB and Wi-Fi connectivity. USB is a simple plug-and-play option for connecting directly to your computer. Wi-Fi allows for wireless printing from various devices on your network, adding flexibility.
Some laser printers even offer mobile printing capabilities through apps, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet. This can be a convenient option for on-the-go printing needs.
User interface
Laser printers typically have a control panel with buttons and a display screen (Well the ones we sell do anyway ?). The buttons allow you to navigate menus, initiate printing jobs, and cancel tasks. The display screen shows printer status, toner levels, and error messages (if any).
Top 3 All-Round Laser Printers 2024
Brother MFC-L8690CDW
- All-in-one Colour Laser
- Mobile Printing
- Large Paper Tray
Canon i-SENSYS MF264dw II
- Mono Laser for Small/Medium Offices
- A4 Multi-function
- Up to 28 ppm Print Speed
HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP M480f
- Ideal for Large Workgroups
- Large Colour Touchscreen
- Auto Duplex Printing
How To Maintain Laser Printers
Regular cleaning of your laser printer
Dust build-up inside the printer can affect print quality. Regularly clean the exterior with a dry cloth to remove dust. You can also use a compressed air can (avoiding direct contact) to gently clean the inside, following the manufacturer's instructions.
The paper feed path is crucial for smooth operation. Wipe the rubber rollers with a slightly damp cloth to remove any residue or build-up that might cause paper jams.
Correctly storing your toner cartridges
Store unopened toner cartridges in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures or humidity can damage the toner powder and affect print quality.
When storing unused toner cartridges, keep them in their original packaging for optimal protection.
Maintaining and changing the drum unit
The drum unit transfers toner to the paper and plays a vital role in print quality. Consult your user manual for the recommended replacement interval for your specific printer model.
If you notice faded prints, streaks, or background shadows, it might indicate a worn drum unit and time for replacement.
Our advice?
Your printer's user manual is a valuable resource. Refer to it for specific cleaning instructions, troubleshooting tips, and recommended maintenance procedures for your model.
Conclusion
Laser printers offer a compelling combination of speed, efficiency, and affordability for high-volume printing needs. Whether you're a busy professional, a home office warrior, or a student churning out reports, a laser printer can be a valuable asset.
We've explored the inner workings of laser printers, their advantages over inkjets, and key factors to consider when choosing the right model for your requirements.
By understanding these aspects, you can make an informed decision and select a laser printer that delivers exceptional performance and value for years to come.
Don’t forget to check out my blog on the best photo printers in 2024!
Happy printing all!
Blog Author: Simon Cross is the engaging and knowledgeable voice behind the insightful articles on printers and printer consumables at IJT Direct, an ecommerce store renowned for its comprehensive selection of printers, printer consumables, and hardware. View Simons author page to find out more about him.