New, Used, Refurbished: Make Your Laser Printer Pick Wisely

When you’re buying a color laser printer, you can be confused by all the different terminology.  All you know is you want the best laser printer that meets your needs and is the most cost effective.  If you want a duplex laser printer or an 11×17 color laser printer and can get it at a great price, does it really need to be new?  Some of you may say yes and that simplifies somewhat your purchase although you will be paying top dollar.  While others will ask, “What are my options?”.  Lets take a closer look at used and refurbished printers and whether they are worth your consideration.  That way, you can go into your laser printer purchase with your eyes wide open.

First off, a new laser printer is unused and is sold directly from the manufacturer or one of his authorized dealers.  There is a full manufacturers warranty in effect.  If you buy a “new” printer from an unauthorized dealer, then you may not be getting a new printer with warranty or a warranty that will transfer.  You may reap big savings of over 50% when you buy from an unauthorized dealer, but you may spend a chunk of that savings on a maintenance contract with the manufacturer or an authorized maintenance organization.

Sometimes, you will see a laser printer sold that is an “open box” printer.  This usually means that the printer is new but the box was opened for some reason, maybe it was sold and returned without use.  As long as you get an “open box” deal from an authorized dealer or manufacturer, these can be big money savers.

Now, a used laser printer is just that, used.  But to what extent?  Was it gently used or abused by its previous owner?  A used printer usually is sold in “as is” condition.  Buyer beware definitely applies here.  You may buy a used printer super cheap but then spend a lot on updates and maintenance.

A refurbished laser printer is usually the middle ground between a new and used laser printer.  The “refurbishing” is done by a third party who checks the printer, cleans it and makes current updates to the printer’s firmware and operating system.  The drivers are included in these updates.  When the manufacturer refurbishes a laser printer, it is call remanufactured.   Pricing on a refurbished printer usually is anywhere between 50 – 90% of the new price.  However, when buying a refurbished printer, make sure to ask if it has everything a new printer has.  Sometimes, these printer reseller may not provide the CD driver unless requested or there is no manual or toner cartridges included.  Verify what you are and are not getting before you purchase any type of new, used or refurbished laser printer.