Ricoh uses gel printers to attack inkjet market

New GelSprinter printers offer laser speeds at a price closer to inkjets

Ricoh has introduced a range of desktop printers using a gel-based colour system instead of the familiar inkjet technology. This allows the devices to print at up to 30 pages-per-minute, according to the firm, and makes them an economical alternative to inkjets.

Unlike many other desktop printers, the company is also backing the models with a two-year on-site service warranty.

The new GelSprinter Aficio GX3000, GX3050N and GX5050N are the first printers to be launched in the UK using this technology, according to Ricoh. The A4 models are capable of producing up to 30 pages-per-minute in both colour, and black and white.

"The technology has the speed of a laser, but the purchase cost is closer to an inkjet," said Ricoh senior product manager, Helen Berentzen. Running costs are also lower, she added.

Developed by Ricoh, the GelSprinter process uses pigment-based colours that sit on the surface of the paper instead of soaking into the fibres. This produces a fast-drying and waterproof finish that does not smudge, blur or bleed, the company said.

It also enables duplex printing, allowing firms to save paper by using both sides, something that is difficult or impossible with inkjets. All three Aficio models support this as standard.

Confident of the technology's reliability, Ricoh is offering a two-year, on-site warranty for the new printers, and will swap out any unit that cannot be repaired.

"Not many suppliers are able to do this at this end of the market," said Berentzen.

Prices for the GelSprinter Aficio range start at £128 for the GX3000, which has a USB connection and optional network interface. The GX3050N and GX5050N cost £178 and £249 respectively and include networking as standard.