Buying a Laser Printer, Essay Example

Before initiating the research process, I compiled a list of my printing needs in order to ensure that my chosen printer has all the required features. My next step was to visit manufacturers’ websites including HP (HP), Dell (Dell), and Epson (Epson) to get an idea of the available models and their features. The websites visits also helped me gather information on the prices charged by different manufacturers which could then be compared against the features to develop an idea of overall value.

Since laser printer was going to be a significant investment in terms of cost, I wanted to be sure that I will be purchasing a reliable product. First I checked expert reviews on technology websites such as CNET (CNET), PCMag (PCMag), PCWorld (PCWorld), and Consumer Reports (Consumer Reports). Expert reviews helped me narrow down the printers that offered the best combination of value and performance. My next step was to check consumer reviews because consumers usually use a product for some time before writing their opinions and often comment on long-term performance as opposed to expert reviewers who usually focus on performance and value only. I checked numerous consumer reviews websites such as Epionions (Epionions). I eventually settled on a Brother laser printer because almost every user claimed he/she is very satisfied with the purchase because not only the printer performs at a high level and is very reliable but also the company’s customer service is very impressive.

The last step was the simplest since it only involved price comparison. I checked prices on websites of major retail establishments such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and Staples as well as used Google Shopping. In the end, I settled for Best Buy because Best Buy offered several advantages over online retailers such as quick and easy return as well as immediate repair/replacement should the item break down before the expiration of the warranty period.

References

CNET. Printer. 9 September 2012 <http://reviews.cnet.com/printers/>.

Consumer Reports. Printer Reviews from Consumer Reports. 9 September 2012 <http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/printer-reviews.htm>.

Dell. Dell Printers: All-In-One Inkjets, Black-and-White, Color and Multifunction Lasers. 9 September 2012 <http://www.dell.com/printers>.

Epionions. Printers. 9 September 2012 <http://www.epinions.com/Printers?sb=1>.

Epson. All-in-Ones & Printers. 9 September 2012 <http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/jsp/printers/index.do>.

Home & Home Office Store. 9 September 2012 <http://www.shopping.hp.com/en_US/home-office/-/products/Printers/Printers>.

PCMag. Printers. 9 September 2012 <http://www.pcmag.com/reviews/printers>.

PCWorld. Printer. 9 September 2012 <http://www.pcworld.com/products/printers.html>.