Most printer regret is predictable. Buyers focus on the wrong number, overlook running costs, or buy more — or less — printer than they need.
Avoid these common mistakes and you will end up with a device that fits your needs and your budget for years.
Mistake 1: Judging by sticker price alone
The cheapest printer is often the most expensive to own. Inexpensive models frequently use costly, low-yield cartridges, so the savings disappear within months. Always weigh the price of supplies and their page yield.
Mistake 2: Ignoring cost per page
Cost per page is the figure that determines your real spend. Two printers at the same price can differ dramatically once you factor in ink or toner. Calculate it before you commit.
Mistake 3: Buying the wrong technology
- Choosing a laser when you mainly print photos.
- Choosing a basic inkjet for high-volume text printing.
- Skipping an ink tank model despite frequent color printing.
Mistake 4: Over- or under-buying
Buying a heavy-duty office printer for light home use wastes money, while pushing a light-duty printer past its duty cycle leads to early failure. Match the printer's rated volume to your real needs.
The Driver Download Trap
One of the most common printer mistakes — and one of the costliest — is downloading drivers and software from unofficial websites. Search results for printer setup software frequently return third-party sites that charge for free downloads, bundle unwanted programs, or distribute outdated files that cause compatibility issues.
Always download printer drivers, firmware updates, and setup utilities directly from the manufacturer. For HP printers, the official source is HP's Software and Driver Downloads page at support.hp.com/drivers. Independent retailers like Potter Print sell printers but do not provide driver downloads or technical support — the manufacturer is always the right destination for software.
HP Printer Driver & Software Downloads
Potter Print is an independent printer retailer. We do not provide printer driver downloads, technical support, or remote setup services. For official HP printer drivers, HP printer software, firmware updates, and setup utilities, please visit HP's official support page.
Visit HP Software & Driver DownloadsKey Takeaways
- The lowest sticker price often hides the highest running cost.
- Always calculate cost per page before buying.
- Match the technology to the documents you print most.
- Respect the duty cycle — do not over- or under-buy.
Conclusion
Smart printer buying is mostly about avoiding a handful of well-known traps. Look past the sticker price, calculate cost per page, match the technology to your documents, and respect the duty cycle — and you will avoid the regret most buyers experience.