4 good reasons to upgrade that old printer

A printer can last many years, but it'll start to feel outdated once newer models with more advanced features and efficient functionality are released. Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider replacing an old printer.

Quality prints

Since technology improves over time, so does the printer. You may believe that a printer from 2004 would be able to match a new printer bought today, but you'd find the older model struggle to compete. Newer printers come rocking more options for page management and how prints are handled, not to mention the advancement in inks.

When you start encountering frequent paper jams, sub-par quality prints or noisier operation, you'll want to look at replacing the aging unit.

New features

Much like your smartphone, a new printer will have all the latest features from the manufacturer. More recent printers are Wi-Fi capable, can connect to your portable device for more convenient operation with a flick of your finger, and can even offer advanced functionality with USB ports and scanners.

More efficient inking

Printer

Not only are newer printers more likely to be able to pump out more pages per minute than older models, they're also likely to use less ink and manage everything else in a more efficient manner. Ink costs continue to be an issue for consumers, especially those who print numerous documents each day. Being able to get more out of a cartridge is a longterm win.

Peace of mind

Should your old printer suddenly stop working, you'll have little to no support from the manufacturer, especially since you'll likely be outside the warranty period, and that specific printer may not be produced anymore. Picking up a new one will kick-start a new warranty period, giving you added peace of mind that should anything happen, you'll be covered.

Ready to upgrade?

When you're ready to make the jump and purchase a new printer, we've got you covered with some recommendations:

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.