FAQ
TL;DR: Under PLN 300, expect trade-offs: 15 years is exceptional and “the death of the head is a serious economic problem.” For reliability choose cartridge‑head models; for cheapest pages consider CISS‑ready Epsons. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
Why it matters: It guides home users in Poland to pick a reliable, cheap‑to‑run MFD under PLN 300 without costly mistakes.
Quick Facts
- Budget ceiling: approx. PLN 300 for a new home MFD; prioritize reliability and low consumable costs. [Elektroda, kamil_77, post #17046760]
- Typical service diagnosis costs PLN 40–60, making repairs on cheap devices uneconomical. [Elektroda, kamil_77, post #17046760]
- Permanent‑head inkjets cut ink costs but risk expensive head failure; cartridge‑head models trade higher ink cost for resilience. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
- Low‑cost route suggested: Epson XP‑245/XP‑342 with “eternal inks” (CISS) plus refill bottles. [Elektroda, fifek62, post #17639627]
- Easiest/cheapest CISS path: buy a unit with CISS preinstalled via auction listings. [Elektroda, fifek62, post #17669362]
What’s the best home MFD under PLN 300 for reliability and low costs?
Pick a priority. For reliability, choose models with printheads in the cartridge. For the cheapest pages, use a permanent‑head inkjet with CISS. As one expert warned, “permanent heads fall extremely often.” Match the risk to how much and how often you print. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
Canon PIXMA MG3650 vs MG5750 — which fits this budget better?
Both are consumer inkjets. Decide by consumables and head design. If they use permanent heads, inks can be cheaper but a head failure costs dearly. If reliability matters more, consider cartridge‑head alternatives. “The death of the head is a serious economic problem.” [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
Are HP all‑in‑one printers more durable?
Yes, one user notes HP is relatively durable. Their HP PSC 1410 still works after 15 years. That’s exceptional, not guaranteed. The bigger factor is head type and how you use the printer. “HP is relatively durable,” but expect trade‑offs in ink cost. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
Can I get a new MFD with a 2‑year warranty and low running costs under PLN 300?
It’s difficult. The adviser listed several low‑cost models but noted they didn’t meet the “new with warranty” requirement. At this price, expect to compromise on either warranty status, features, or running costs. [Elektroda, Krzysztof Drub, #17064542]
Which specific models were suggested in the thread?
Suggested options included HP B110, HP B111, HP Deskjet 3520, and HP Photosmart 5514. Verify availability and condition, as the recommendations did not guarantee brand‑new stock with full warranty. [Elektroda, Krzysztof Drub, #17064542]
How long can a home MFD last?
One report cites an HP PSC 1410 still working after 15 years. That’s an outlier. Build quality has declined, and permanent heads can fail after warranty. “Quality of workmanship has long gone to dogs,” said an experienced user. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
What are eternal inks (CISS) and when should I consider them?
CISS adds external tanks feeding ink continuously, slashing page costs. A user recommended Epson XP‑245 or XP‑342 with CISS and bottles for home savings. Consider CISS if you print often and want minimal ink expense. [Elektroda, fifek62, post #17639627]
How do I get eternal inks installed cheaply?
How‑To:
- Choose a printer sold with CISS preinstalled from a trusted auction listing.
- Buy the preinstalled bundle and keep all included setup instructions.
- Follow the seller’s steps exactly for first power‑up and priming.
[Elektroda, fifek62, post #17669362]
Are repairs worth it on budget inkjets?
Often no. Diagnosis alone can cost PLN 40–60, and services may decline uneconomical repairs. For low‑priced devices, replacing the unit is frequently cheaper than fixing it. Factor this into your initial purchase decision. [Elektroda, kamil_77, post #17046760]
I print rarely. Should I avoid permanent‑head printers?
Yes. Permanent‑head designs can fail when underused. As one expert put it, “in those with permanent heads [they] fall extremely often.” Cartridge‑head models better tolerate sporadic use because replacing the cartridge refreshes the head. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17064608]
I had a Brother DCP‑115. Whats a cheap‑to‑run replacement with Wi‑Fi?
Consider Epson XP‑245 or XP‑342 paired with CISS for very low ink costs. If you need Wi‑Fi, choose a variant that lists wireless in its specs before buying. This balances convenience with cost per page. [Elektroda, fifek62, post #17639627]
What hidden costs come with cheap‑ink setups?
Cheap inks often pair with printer‑integrated heads. If that head fails after warranty, repair can exceed device value. As noted, “the repair will exceed the value of the device.” Budget for the risk or choose cartridge‑head models. [Elektroda, helmud7543, post #17626647]
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