Top Printers Ranked by Stiftung Warentest: See Which Models Made the Cut!

Navigating the Vast World of Printers: Making Informed Choices

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When it’s time to purchase a new printer, the market offers a dizzying array of options, with prices ranging from around 50 to 500 euros. The decision on which printer to buy isn’t just about price; it also hinges on what you need the printer for, how often you’ll use it, and whether you need color or just black and white.

Understanding Printer Usage and Costs

For those who don’t print often, a more affordable printer, despite higher per-page costs, might be the most cost-effective choice. Conversely, if you’re printing frequently, investing in a pricier model with lower operational costs could save you money in the long run. It’s all about balancing the upfront cost against the ongoing expenses.

Multifunctionality vs. Specialization

Most printers available today are multifunctional; they can print, scan, and copy. If you never use these extra features, a dedicated printer might seem like a better value. However, the price difference between specialized printers and versatile models that perform well across tasks is often negligible.

Insights from Stiftung Warentest

Stiftung Warentest’s comprehensive reviews of 213 current printer models, including 28 tested over the past six months, can be an invaluable resource for buyers. These reviews reveal that the most affordable top-rated printer costs about 190 euros, while the highest-priced one is around 560 euros.

Choosing the Right Type of Printer

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Inkjet Innovations

In the realm of inkjet printers, the Canon Maxify GX6550 stands out. Priced at around 525 euros, though often found cheaper, this model excels in printing, scanning, copying, and environmental friendliness, including low power consumption. Its low running costs make it ideal for regular use.

Similarly, the Epson Ecotank ET-4850, also scoring high in tests, offers a more budget-friendly option at approximately 380 euros. It’s easier to use than its Canon counterpart and shines as the best photo printer reviewed. For those who print less frequently and prioritize cost-effectiveness, the Epson Ecotank ET-2860 and its variants, priced from about 180 euros, provide a good alternative with satisfactory performance across the board.

Laser Precision

Laser printers, known for their efficiency, come in various capabilities. The Canon i-Sensys MF657Cdw, a color multifunctional laser printer, delivers good printing and copying quality at just under 400 euros. However, its toner costs and environmental ratings received only average marks.

For those needing a straightforward laser printer without additional functions, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP633Cdw leads its category with a price tag significantly under 300 euros. Like its multifunctional sibling, it faces criticism for its toner expenses and environmental impact.

Cost-Effective Black and White Options

If color printing isn’t a necessity, black and white laser printers offer a more economical alternative. The Canon i-Sensys MF264dw II excels in multifunctionality with impressive efficiency, costing around 330 euros. For pure printing needs, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP246dw, priced at approximately 230 euros, provides excellent service and has received favorable reviews across various performance metrics. For occasional printers, the Canon i-SENSYS LBP122dw stands out as a strong contender, offering the best print results in its category for about 175 euros, despite its average ratings in toner costs and environmental aspects.

In conclusion, selecting the right printer is less about finding the cheapest option and more about matching the printer’s capabilities and costs with your specific needs. Whether it’s the frequency of use, type of documents printed, or the importance of additional features like scanning and copying, a thoughtful approach will lead you to the best printer for your home or office.