Printer Test Bench 1.4
Our printer Test Bench 1.4 introduces new tests, scores, usages, and comparisons to improve how we evaluate paper handling, ink systems, supported media, long-term efficiency, and practical usages. These changes help make printer reviews more complete and easier to compare across different printing needs.What's Changed?Change / New ItemTypeDescriptionArts, Crafts, & StickersNew UsageEvaluates how well a printer handles arts, crafts, and sticker printing.Clogging ResistanceNew Performance UsageEvaluates the printer's ability to resist clogging over time.SizeNew Performance UsageEvaluates the printer's overall size and weight, and how easily it fits into different spaces.Paper TrayNew Test BoxDescribes a printer's paper input options and capacities.Ink System UpdatesAdded ComparisonsAdded comparisons for Separated Colors, Black Ink Type, and Color Ink Type.Page Yield ScoreNew Test BoxMoved the Page Yield tests that used to be in the "Cartridge" box to their own test box and added an overall score.Document Printing SizesAdded ComparisonAdded a comparison for A3 paper.Photo Printing SizesAdded ComparisonsAdded comparisons for 3.5" x 5" and 11" x 17" photo paper.Paper Type PresetsNew Test GroupLists supported paper types from the printer's specs and software.Detailed ChangesNew Usage: Arts, Crafts, & StickersWe've added a new Arts, Crafts, & Stickers usage. This usage evaluates how well a printer handles arts, crafts, and sticker printing.It prioritizes photo quality, color range and accuracy, ink setup, available paper profiles, and paper-handling features that are helpful for specialty media. A rear tray or manual feed slot is especially useful for crafts and stickers because it provides a more direct feed path for thicker paper, which can reduce curling and paper jams.New Performance Usage: Clogging ResistanceWe've added a new Clogging Resistance performance usage. This evaluates a printer's ability to resist clogging over time.This is especially relevant for inkjet printers, as ink can dry in the printhead when the printer is used infrequently. A stronger result helps indicate that the printer is less likely to need maintenance or cleaning cycles after sitting unused.New Performance Usage: SizeWe've added a new Size performance usage. This evaluates the printer's overall size and weight, as well as how easily it fits into different spaces.This usage helps users compare printers based on how practical they are for home offices, desks, shelves, shared workspaces, or other areas where space may be limited.Paper TrayWe've added a new Paper Tray test group to better describe how each printer feeds paper and what types of trays it supports. This group includes comparisons for different paper input options and their capacities.Cassette: Whether the printer has a removable paper tray designed to hold and protect paper while feeding it automatically.Rear Paper Tray: Whether the printer has an open paper tray at the back.Manual Feed: Whether the printer has an opening where individual sheets can be manually fed.Other Tray Types: Any additional or less common paper input methods supported by the printer.Ink SystemWe've expanded the Ink System group with new comparisons that provide more detail about how the printer uses and organizes ink.Separated Colors: Whether color ink is split into individual cartridges or combined into a single cartridge.Black Ink Type: Whether the black ink is dye-based, pigment-based, or toner.Color Ink Type: Whether the color ink is dye-based, pigment-based, or toner.Page Yield ScoreWe've added a new Page Yield score based on the Efficiency group. Page yield represents the number of pages a printer can print before its ink cartridges, ink tanks, or toner need to be replaced or refilled. This score makes it easier to compare printers based on long-term ink or toner efficiency.Document Printing SizesWe've added more supported paper sizes to the Document Printing Sizes section.A3Photo Printing SizesWe've expanded the Photo Printing Sizes section with two additional photo paper sizes.3.5" x 5"11" x 17"Paper Type PresetsWe've added a new Paper Type Presets group. This group lists supported paper types found in the printer's specifications and software.Photo Paper MattePhoto Paper Semi-GlossPhoto Paper GlossyPhoto Paper LusterThin/Light PaperFine Art PaperCanvasHagaki/WashiLet Us Know What You ThinkWe're always looking to improve our printer test bench. If you have suggestions or ideas to help us improve our reviews, feel free to comment on any page or reach out at feedback@rtings.com. Your input has been essential in shaping our tests, and we're grateful for it!
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