Printer Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Explained

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a printer is the comprehensive expense of owning and using the device over its lifetime, extending far beyond the initial Acquisition Cost. The primary focus is that lower upfront prices can be misleading, as the true cost often lies in ongoing expenses.

A substantial element of TCO is the life of the product itself, which dictates how long you can defer the cost of a full replacement. Higher-quality business printers are designed for durability, often featuring robust duty cycles—the maximum number of pages the printer can reliably produce in a month—and readily available, reasonably priced maintenance kits for long-term servicing. Longevity is tied to the design and quality of components. Printers with a longer expected service life not only spread the initial investment over more years but also reduce the disruptive and costly downtime associated with frequent equipment failures. Always investigate the manufacturer's warranty before committing to a purchase.

The calculation uses the formula:   TCO=Acquisition Cost+(Page Volume×CPP)+Maintenance+Energy


 

Key elements driving TCO are:
 

Cost Per Page (CPP): This is the core running cost, calculated by dividing the cartridge price by its estimated page yield.  Paper and other consumables are also a consideration.
Consumables: Prioritizing printers that use high-yield cartridges to reduce replacement frequency and lower costs.
Maintenance and Energy: Ongoing costs for maintenance, potential repairs, and energy consumption must be factored in.
Durability and Longevity: Printers designed to last longer help spread the initial investment over more years.
Avoid Non-Genuine Toner: While cheaper, these alternatives can increase maintenance costs or potentially damage the printer.
Evaluate Support: Check the manufacturer's warranty and support options.
Match Needs: Ensure the chosen printer is appropriate for the expected printing volume.