The difference is what’s used to apply content to paper. Laser printers use toner powder, which makes them more expensive and bulkier but longer-lasting for office settings. Inkjet printers use ink and dye, and while they will run out faster than toner, they make for a more affordable, compact package that works best for printing at home and in other less demanding settings.

You’ll know the answer to this question best. You may think you don’t, only to reverse that thought the next time you actually have to print something. That’s why I recommend buying a cheap printer but not going overboard with a model designed to do more than what you need.

It depends on whether you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want to think about refilling. The HP Instant Ink plan that’s available with my top pick, the HP Envy 6555e, charges based on the number of pages you expect to print monthly. It starts at $1.79 per month for 10 pages. If you print less than expected, pages roll over. Similarly, if you print more, your account can buy more automatically. Signing up means you don’t have to monitor ink levels because HP will ship you more whenever your Wi-Fi-connected printer gets low.