Once you use a laser (or dye sub) you never go back...
Laser printer cartridges last 3000+ pages depending on image density. Most lasers now ship with a "starter" cartridge good for maybe 300-1000 pages. New cartridges go for $60-100, but can be refilled at least a couple times for $5-10. The starter cartridges are the same unit, just with less toner. So:
In the example of a Brother 1440 for $79-99 on sale (they're a closeout item now):
-Includes cartridge w/toner good for 300-500 pages.
-Refill toner is $5-10 for another 3000-6000 pages.
-By 6000-10000 pages you'll likely need a new fuser assembly. Some lasers have this integrated into their toner cartridge, so every 3rd refill or so you buy a new cartridge. Other lasers use a separate fuser which can be $50-100.
(There are other consumables and more expensive parts for higher-end lasers, but not to worry for models under $500.)
Quote:
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Originally Posted by frosstbyte
... I'd buy a separate printer and scanner ever time. The all-in-one machines might seem handy, but they don't do any of their jobs as well as they ought to.
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Very true.