How to Calculate Printer Cost Per Page

Divide a replacement toner or ink cartridge’s price by its rated page yield, then add paper and relevant maintenance expenses.

Details and examples

A $60 cartridge rated for 2,000 pages costs about 3 cents in toner per page. If a sheet of paper costs 1 cent, the simple estimate becomes 4 cents before electricity, drums and repairs.

Practical tip

For double-sided printing, two printed pages may consume one sheet. Actual toner or ink consumption depends on page coverage, so manufacturer yields are estimates rather than guaranteed results.

Frequently asked question

Should the printer’s purchase price count?

For total cost of ownership, yes. Spread the purchase price over the number of pages you expect to print.