At home or in the office, a laminator machine is a handy tool that primarily makes sheets, photos, and documents less vulnerable and much more durable over time. In addition, the operation of a laminator is quite simple.
A plastic envelope (called a pouche) is applied to the document, which can only cover one side or both. The pouches can be shiny or opaque: the first is ideal for storing images and photos, while the latter is more suitable for documents.
Moreover, the envelopes have a variable thickness, and the greater the thickness, the better the quality of protection will be. The laminator machine can have different uses, from the domestic one to store memories to a professional one in offices and work contexts to store brochures, presentations, catalogs, etc.
Here we see an example of Fellowes Spectra’s operation (see here price and model variants), available in A3 and A4 formats, and currently one of the best for value for money both for home use and moderate office use.
Table of Contents
How to choose a laminator machine: Types and Characteristics
The main aspects to consider in purchasing a laminator machine are frequency of use and format.
The most advanced professional models are designed for more intensive use, while the domestic ones are cheaper and offer less functionality. The most common formats are A3 and A4; some models support multiple formats.
The choice, of course, depends on specific needs. However, in order not to risk making mistakes, the important factors to consider when buying are:
- Dimensions: the format also affects the dimensions of the laminator machine. The A4 models allow you to laminate sheets from classic A4 sizes and are not too bulky. If you need larger formats, you must orient yourself towards a larger (and more expensive) model and carefully evaluate the available space.
- Functions: more advanced models offer more features to facilitate maximum use. For example, the anti-jamming system can avoid blocking the laminator by sticking plastic bags inside the mechanism.
- Temperature selector: the best professional laminator machine also offers the possibility to select usage temperature based on the thickness of the pouche.
- Included accessories: before buying, consider what is included in the kit: how many pouche and what thickness, any cutters, etc. The more accessories are included, the less you will have to buy them separately.
Hot and cold difference laminator machine
The plasticizing process can occur in two different ways: hot or cold. The first option involves using special films that are perfectly bonded to document protected in contact with the machine’s heat. Instead, the laminators’ pressure and machine are used in the second case, pressuring the pouche until it adheres to a sheet.
Generally, a hot laminator machine has higher prices but guarantees better results over the long term. If you are looking for a model for professional use, it is better to opt for them. If you use it at home, cold models are the best choice.
When and why buy a laminator machine
The laminator machine can be useful in different contexts: from use in a home to store photos, images, and essential documents, to use in the office to store materials of all kinds.
Paper is a perishable material subject to deterioration due to different causes. Exposure to sunlight, atmospheric agents, dust, dirt, and time does not favor preserving documents. For this, it is useful to buy a laminator machine.
The cheaper models are not very bulky and can be safely on a desk or the bookshelf, while the more advanced ones are perfect for a business environment.
Duration and Maintenance
The maintenance of the laminator machine is rather simple. First, it is good to take precautions not to plasticize empty pouches because it could cause malfunctions or jams in the mechanism.
For correct operation over time, it is advisable to slide a sheet of cardboard cleaning inside the machine, which is useful to remove any adhesive residues that could jam the sheets. Before proceeding with maintenance operations, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
The best quality/price laminator machine for papers and documents
After this brief introduction to the world of laminator machines, it is time to find out the market’s best models. To help you choose one that best suits your needs, you will find our selection with brands, prices, and features below.
Product prices and availability are subject to change. Therefore, any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to purchasing any products.