It's amazing not many people realize this, but when you're considering buying a new printer. Do you really think the price is right?

Sure, whatever they're displaying on the price tag, this is what you'll be expecting to pay at the checkout counter, but what about the money you need to spend afterward?

Yes, we are referring to the consumables! That is the ink cartridges, toner cartridges and all those printing supplies that your printer needs.

Have you ever put much thought into this?

Seriously, while major high tech manufacturing companies like Canon, Epson, HP and Lexmark are all selling their printers at reasonable prices.

But guess what?

They make all their BIG PROFITS back by supplying you with ongoing printer consumables, which you MUST buy if you want to keep printing!

Can you see where we're going?

Good!

That's why before you buy another printer. Please put these "Not So Obvious" costs into the price tag and then determine the true value in a long term.

Here are some quick questions to ask yourself:

1) How many cartridges does the printer hold?
2) What is the price for one cartridge?
3) How much for a whole set? (Including all colors)
4) How long do they last? (The page printing yield)

If you’re using an inkjet printer, you should know that a decent ink cartridge can easily cost around $20 each! What if you choose a printer that holds up to six of these carts, then you're looking at an extra $120 every time you replace your printer with new ink.

What if you print documents or photos almost everyday and say you consume these ink within 1 month. Now, that's an extra $120 you need to spend on your inkjet supplies each and every month!

In one year, you will be looking at around $1440!

Of course, we are only talking about inkjet printers here, but what about laser ones?

These are more expensive machines that require the use of laser toner cartridges and one of these babies can easily cost around $100 each!!!

How long do they last?

...well, it depends on the page yield and of course, how aggressive you use it!

Therefore, if you're planning on getting a new printer, please consider the after cost associated with the consumables because in a long term, it really counts!

If you're happy with your printer, but looking for ways to minimize the running cost, you may like to try the compatibles or otherwise know as generic brands. These are brand new cartridges manufactured by third party companies and are selling at a much cheaper price.

Sure, if you don't mind messing around with ink refill kits, then it may also be a solution for you!

Otherwise, there are always remanufactured printer cartridges that come in both inkjet and toners. These are normally empty cartridges that are properly cleaned, refilled and recycled into reusable conditions for resale again.

As you can see, printing is a never ending expense and certainly one that cannot be avoid, that's why it is important to choose the right printer from the start to prevent any unnecessary future cost.

Happy Printing!