Depending on the type of work you throw at it, calculate the total cost of ownership before buying a printer. Cheap ones often require expensive supplies, and make no sense in the long run. A sturdy office laser printer will work faster and more economically than an entry-level home inkjet. Multi-function devices which print, scan, copy and fax are highly recommended, since you don't have to worry about space, wiring, and setup. Don't think you'll never need a scanner-you never know when it'll come in handy, and it's practically thrown in for free. Larger laser printers allow you to save money and paper by printing on both sides automatically, and using multiple paper trays for letterheads,plain paper and If recycled sheets. On the other hand, if you only need color once in a few months, save yourself the money and find out where the nearest print shop is.