It is advised that you choose a printer based on output frequency and volume. Buying a more expensive machine would be wise if you print a lot of documents on a daily basis. However, a more compact and reasonably priced machine should work fine if you plan to occasionally print lesser amounts. What you want to print should also be taken into account when looking for a printer. Your ideal machine will be different for someone who wants to print a lot of text than it will be if you plan to print a lot of photographs.