Mark Cowan Technical Support Services
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Print without the confusion

Find the right printer.

Start with how often you print, whether you need color, and whether you want to scan or copy. Compare the cost of ink or toner as well as the printer itself.

Secondhand printers

No secondhand printers are listed yet. Ask Mark about current options before purchasing elsewhere.

Ask about a used printer
What to check before buying used
  • Ask for a fresh test print. For ink printers, check for missing lines or colors.
  • Test paper feeding, scanning, and printing from your own computer or phone.
  • Check ink or toner levels and replacement prices. A cheap printer with empty supplies may cost more overall.

New printer buying guide

Mostly letters and documents

Black-and-white laser

A practical starting point: Brother HL-L2460DW. Prints black-and-white documents, connects wirelessly, and prints on both sides automatically.

Tradeoff: This model does not scan or copy and does not print color. Choose a laser all-in-one if you need scanning.

Plain English: Laser printers use toner powder instead of liquid ink.

Brother’s features and current price ↗
Regular color printing

Refillable ink tank

A starting point: Epson EcoTank ET-2980. Uses refillable ink bottles, supports automatic two-sided printing, and has a color screen. Epson lists AirPrint support.

Tradeoff: Compare the upfront cost and print regularly to help keep the ink system healthy.

Plain English: AirPrint lets supported Apple devices print without a separate printer driver.

Epson’s models and features ↗
Scanning and copying

Look for an all-in-one

For a printer, “all-in-one” means printing, scanning, and copying in one machine.

  • A flat glass scanner is useful for a single page or photograph.
  • An automatic document feeder handles a stack of pages.
  • Two-sided printing and two-sided scanning are separate features.

Tell Mark which phone, computer, and Wi-Fi system you use so compatibility can be checked.

Before you spend: Ask whether cartridges or bottled ink are included, whether a subscription is optional, and what replacement supplies cost. For occasional printing, compare a simple laser printer with using a local print shop.
Help me choose a printer
A little guidance goes a long way

Not sure where to start?

Tell Mark what you need and what you would like to spend. Get friendly, one-on-one help choosing the right fit.

Call Mark: 951-255-9814 ↗