Understanding the cost to print something at Staples requires looking beyond the simple act of pressing print. The final price is a calculation involving the specific media type, the complexity of the job, and the level of finishing you require. Whether you are a student turning in a last-minute assignment or a marketing manager preparing a presentation for a board meeting, the quote you receive will vary significantly based on these factors.
Cost Factors for Basic Printing
For straightforward black and white documents on standard copy paper, Staples operates a relatively clear pricing structure. The cost is generally based on the page count, with slight variations depending on whether the job is handled in-store at a kiosk or at the full-service counter. Color printing, even for basic text documents, introduces a significant price difference due to the cost of toner and the time required for processing.
Black and White vs. Color
The most significant variable in the cost equation is the choice between monochrome and color output. Black and white prints are the most economical option, suitable for drafts, internal reports, and text-heavy academic papers. Color printing, however, is priced much higher per page, reflecting the value of vibrant, true-to-life imagery for marketing materials, photo proofs, or visually rich presentations.
Paper Size and Media Type
Moving beyond the standard 8.5" x 11" sheet immediately impacts the price. Upgrading to legal size, tabloid, or premium cardstock requires different printer settings and often involves manual handling, which adds to the labor cost. Furthermore, printing on glossy photo paper or specialized media for art prints incurs a premium compared to the cost of basic ream paper.
Specialty Materials and Finishing
If your project requires more than just a cut sheet, the costs escalate. Laminating documents for durability, binding reports with comb or spiral bindings, or creating folded brochures with crease folds are all services that add distinct charges. These finishing touches transform a simple printout into a professional product, and the pricing reflects the equipment and time needed to execute them correctly.
Service | Description | Cost Factor
Black & White (Per Page) | Standard copy paper, single-sided | Lowest Cost Tier
Color (Per Page) | Full color on standard or premium paper | Medium to High Cost
Large Format | Posters, banners, and engineering prints | High Cost (Size Dependent)
Binding | Spiral, comb, or stapling | Additional Fixed Fee
Lamination | Glossy or matte finish for protection | Additional Fixed Fee
Delivery and Convenience Fees
Modern options like Staples Print & Ship drastically alter the pricing structure by adding convenience fees. Opting to upload a file online and have the finished product mailed to your home removes the need to visit a store, but this service typically costs more than walking in with a USB drive. The pricing here balances the cost of labor inside the store against the price of shipping and handling required to deliver the final product.
Membership and Savings Programs
Regular customers can mitigate the cost to print something at Staples by utilizing the rewards programs available. Staples Rewards members often receive exclusive discounts on printing bundles or access to a monthly allowance of free prints. Leveraging coupons or taking advantage of seasonal promotions can lead to substantial savings, particularly for high-volume print jobs that would otherwise become expensive.
