REACH TECHNOLOGIES BLOG

Selecting the right printer for your home or business is more than just comparing price tags. One of the most crucial factors to consider is Cost-Per-Page (CPP) — the amount you spend every time you print a single page. Whether you’re printing invoices, reports, or marketing materials, understanding CPP helps you make an informed decision that saves money in the long run. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down Inkjet, Laser, and Supertank printers, compare their performance, and help you determine which offers the best value for your printing needs.

Understanding Cost-Per-Page (CPP)

Cost-Per-Page refers to the average cost of printing a single page, including the cost of ink or toner and other consumables. The formula is simple:

CPP = Cartridge or Ink Cost ÷ Page Yield

For example, if a cartridge costs $40 and yields 1,000 pages, your CPP is $0.04 per page. Lower CPP means better long-term savings, especially for high-volume printing environments.

However, true CPP also depends on factors such as:

• Printer efficiency

• Ink or toner cartridge capacity

• Paper type and print density

• Maintenance and energy consumption

Understanding CPP helps you avoid hidden costs that often make cheap printers more expensive over time.

Inkjet Printers: Affordable Entry, Higher Running Costs

Inkjet printers are widely popular for their low upfront cost and vivid color reproduction. They’re ideal for homes, small offices, and users who occasionally print photos or color documents.

Pros of Inkjet Printers

• Vibrant color output for photos and graphics

• Compact size, perfect for limited spaces

• Lower initial purchase price

Cons of Inkjet Printers

• Higher CPP, often between $0.10–$0.20 per page

• Ink cartridges dry out if not used frequently

• Slower printing speeds compared to lasers

While inkjet printers excel in quality and versatility, they’re not ideal for high-volume printing. Over time, replacement cartridges can significantly increase your total printing costs.

Laser Printers: Efficiency and Longevity for Heavy Printing

Laser printers are the go-to choice for businesses and organizations that prioritize speed, precision, and efficiency. They use toner powder instead of ink, resulting in sharp text prints and faster output.

Pros of Laser Printers

• Low CPP, averaging $0.03–$0.06 per page

• High printing speed, ideal for bulk printing

• Durable toner cartridges with large page yields

• Smudge-free and water-resistant output

Cons of Laser Printers

• Higher upfront cost compared to inkjets

• Bulkier size and heavier build

• Less effective for photo printing

Laser printers are best suited for offices that print hundreds or thousands of pages monthly. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term operational cost is significantly lower due to reduced toner replacement frequency.

Supertank Printers: The Ultimate Low CPP Solution

Supertank printers—also known as ink tank or refillable printers—have revolutionized the printing industry. Instead of disposable cartridges, they use refillable ink reservoirs that hold a large volume of ink, drastically lowering the cost per page.

Pros of Supertank Printers

• Exceptionally low CPP, as little as $0.002–$0.01 per page

• Massive ink capacity that can last up to 7,000–10,000 pages per refill

• Eco-friendly, with less plastic waste

• Consistent print quality over time

Cons of Supertank Printers

• Higher initial price than traditional inkjets

• Potential for ink spills during manual refills

• Requires regular use to prevent clogging

Supertank printers, such as Epson EcoTank and Canon MegaTank, offer the best long-term value for businesses with continuous printing demands. While they require a higher initial investment, the CPP is unbeatable, making them a favorite among cost-conscious users.

Cost-Per-Page Comparison: Inkjet vs Laser vs Supertank

This table illustrates why CPP plays a critical role in determining overall printing costs. While inkjets win on initial affordability, laser and supertank printers dominate when it comes to cost efficiency over time.

Other Factors to Consider Beyond CPP

While CPP is vital, choosing a printer solely based on cost may overlook other critical aspects. Consider these factors before making a final decision:

1. Print Volume

Estimate how many pages you print monthly.

• Low-volume users: Inkjet printers suffice.

• Medium to high-volume users: Choose Laser or Supertank printers.

2. Print Quality

If your business involves design proofs, photography, or marketing materials, prioritize color accuracy—a strength of inkjets and supertanks.

3. Maintenance and Durability

Laser printers require less maintenance than inkjets. Supertanks demand periodic cleaning but offer massive long-term savings.

4. Connectivity and Compatibility

Look for Wi-Fi, mobile printing, and app integrations. Many modern printers support Google Cloud Print, Apple AirPrint, and enterprise-level security features.

5. Environmental Impact

Supertanks produce less waste by eliminating disposable cartridges. If sustainability matters to your business, they offer a greener printing solution.

How to Calculate Your True Printing Cost

To determine your actual printing cost, add together:

1. CPP (ink/toner cost per page)

2. Paper cost per page

3. Maintenance and power consumption

This provides a holistic view of your total cost of ownership (TCO)—the best metric for identifying long-term savings.

When to Upgrade Your Printer

If your printer frequently runs out of ink, takes too long to print, or produces uneven quality, it might be time to upgrade. Businesses that print over 500 pages monthly will benefit most from Laser or Supertank models, which offer:

• Reduced downtime

• Better print consistency

• Lower cost per page

• Fewer cartridge replacements

Regularly assessing your printing needs ensures your office remains productive, cost-efficient, and sustainable.

Conclusion: Partner with Reach Technologies for Smart Printing Solutions

At Reach Technologies, we understand that managing printing costs is essential to operational efficiency. Whether you’re comparing Inkjet, Laser, or Supertank printers, our team provides expert guidance to help you choose the right device based on your Cost-Per-Page goals and business needs.

We specialize in Managed Print Services (MPS) that optimize printer performance, reduce waste, and improve your bottom line. Our tailored solutions ensure you get the best print quality at the lowest possible cost, backed by reliable support and proactive maintenance.

Take control of your printing expenses today. Contact Reach Technologies to discover how we can help you implement smarter, more cost-efficient printing solutions for your business.