I don't know if they were cheaper to buy when they bought what they have, but their prices have certainly declined. Whether that will have a negative impact on their durability remains to be seen. Of course, their toner is not cheap, either, although usually much less per page. And they usually have a built-in function to use a toner-saving printing method, also.
I've not looked for operating costs based on energy consumption, however. I'd suspect that a fairly frequently used laser may use more electricity because of the toner heater? Of course, that could help cut heating costs, which in Wisconsin, are probably much higher than down here...
Then, there is the cost of paper...probably a whole 8.5 by 11 sheet, no matter how short the message. For multi-page messages, many lasers can use duplex printing, possibly saving a lot of paper, too. which reminds me about my checking on printer paper many. many years ago. At that time, pin-feed paper was cheaper in 8.5 by 11 inch sections than those with smaller pieces; 85. by 5.5, etc. So, the choice was, buy more expensive paper to avoid wasting the cheaper paper...
