Compatibility
Printers are manufactured to operate with different operating systems. For Windows users, this is normally no problem, since virtually all printer works well in Windows environment. However, if you intend to use your printer with UNIX and Mac, it is not at all obvious that it works. Make sure your printer supports the new operating system your computer uses.

Resolution
The resolution is measured in dots per inch (dpi), both horizontal and vertical resolution is measured but often given only the horizontal. Obviously, the higher the better the resolution. However, saying that should not be concentrating too much on the resolution as a printer with lower resolution can produce better prints than a printer with higher resolution. The printer type with the highest resolution is inkjet printers where the resolution up to 4800x2400 dpi is not unusual, there are also higher resolution printer. In the case of laser printers are still commonly with 600x600 dpi. Sublimation printers have in most cases 300x300 dpi.

Paper
The most common paper size that most printers are capable of handling the A4. There are very few printers capable of handling larger, but now it begins to be launched inkjet printers that can handle A3. There are specialized photo printer that can handle only photo format 10x15 cm. Inkjet printers generally require higher quality paper than laser printers for best results.

ONE'S LIFE LONG on transcripts is important for most of the obvious reasons. This applies particularly to those who print their photos. Most manufacturers specify number of years as a print to keep. Paper quality and their handling of the photos, of course, also affects longevity.

Speed
Print speed is important. Patience is running out quickly if it takes too long and some prints will then be happy to stay on your computer. Laser printers often handles regular text documents very well, but it can go pretty slow in the case of more advanced print job. Here, of course, the printer processor, a certain role. Sublimation technology allows slow in describing but it is still acceptable for photo printing. For many printers for you to choose print quality, and which applies as usual, the higher the quality the slower it goes.

Connections and optional
USB and PictBridge are almost more or less standard, as are card readers that can handle several different types of memory cards. Otherwise, the printer may be WLAN, Bluetooth and infrared for wireless communication. Some printers have the ability to print on CD. Some photo printers also have extra paper tray specifically for photo paper and printer should be used for purposes other than to print photos, it is easy for paper tray that can handle pretty many sheets.

Many printers are available in different versions depending on the needs of particular network connection, duplex unit and paper volume to be handled. Often, you can also choose between performance and how much memory the printer has built-in.

It is also important to check what is included in the purchase in the cables and software.