How the calculation works
Supply cost per page = replacement price ÷ pages per replacement. Cost per page including paper = supply cost per page + ream price ÷ 500. Total cost = printer purchase price + cost per page × monthly pages × months.
Choosing a page-yield figure
Manufacturers report yields under specified test conditions. Photos, page coverage, cleaning cycles and printing frequency change actual consumption. Start with the published yield, then lower it to see whether a more conservative scenario changes your choice. Color printing also requires a price and comparable yield for the complete supply set.
What if I already own a printer?
To compare future spending, enter zero for the existing printer's purchase price: money already paid will not be paid again. Budget separately for a replacement drum, repair or other parts. For infrequent printing, also consider idle time and maintenance requirements.
Why not compare cartridge prices alone?
In the example, a $45 supply rated for 1,500 pages costs $0.03 per page; a $30 supply rated for 3,000 pages costs $0.01 per page. Saving $0.02 per page takes about 5,000 pages to recover a $100 purchase-price difference, before other costs.
References and your inputs
- Model example: TN-730 vs TN-760 yields and comparison method
- Brother toner and drum: which costs to keep separate
The estimates use the prices and yields you enter; they are not based on tests of individual products. Calculations run in your browser. Inputs are not sent to PDrivers or saved in local storage.
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