Printer Ink Cost Calculator
Calculate your true printing cost per page and monthly/yearly ink expenses.
Compare inkjet vs. laser costs for better budgeting.
Printing Cost Breakdown
Cost per page is the true cost of each printed page, including ink or toner.
Cost per Page = Cartridge Cost / Pages per Cartridge
Monthly Cost = Pages per Month × Cost per Page
Yearly Cost = Monthly Cost × 12
Typical cost per page by printer type:
| Printer Type | Black & White | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Budget inkjet | $0.05–0.08 | $0.12–0.20 |
| Mid-range inkjet | $0.03–0.05 | $0.08–0.12 |
| Ink tank (EcoTank, etc.) | $0.003–0.01 | $0.01–0.03 |
| Laser (monochrome) | $0.02–0.04 | N/A |
| Color laser | $0.02–0.04 | $0.08–0.15 |
Tips for reducing printing costs:
- Draft mode uses 30–50% less ink
- Third-party cartridges can save 50–70% (check reviews first)
- Ink tank printers have the lowest cost per page but higher upfront cost
- Print in black and white when color is not needed
- Duplex printing (both sides) cuts paper costs in half