A computer printer stand or platform allows for supplies and other items to be stored under a printer. It can also raise it to a height where it can be more easily operated and re-filled. They are available in a variety of styles and types, with prices ranging anywhere from about $15 to $400 dollars. Read on to learn more about buying a computer printer stand...

LEVELS: Many printer stand units simply elevate the equipment above the floor or desktop, while others have one or more drawers, trays, and/or shelves for storage below it. Some stands have a slot for feeding paper through to a printer which uses tractor feed or fanfold sheets. A few are capable of holding two printers on separate levels.

MATERIALS: Different computer printer stands are constructed from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. A stand made of metal is generally heavier and more expensive, but durable and less flammable. Wood stands more effectively accommodate the decor of some rooms than metal or plastic units. A few older stands are made of thick metal wire, rather than having a solid flat platform.

SIZE: Some stands are only large enough to accommodate small standard-width inkjet or dot matrix computer printers, while others are capable of holding wide-carriage (some dot matrix and daisy wheel models) and/or laser printers. Be sure to carefully compare the measurements of your printing device and the stand or platform, before making a purchase.

PAPER TRAY: A few stands have a built-in tray behind the printer for collecting paper which has been printed on. Most inkjet and laser printers have built-in trays; this is more useful for daisy wheel and dot matrix units. This feature could be of use for some thermal printers as well. Otherwise, it can still be used for storing blank paper.

ALTERNATIVES: A less expensive alternative to buying a computer printer stand is to purchase printer "supports." These are a set of two bracket-shaped objects which may be placed under each end of the equipment. They can be positioned for printers of different lengths. Another option is to use a monitor stand of the correct size, or a desk with a built-in platform of this type.

Computer printer stands can be purchased from CompUSA, office supply stores like OfficeMax, Staples, and Office Depot, as well as eBay.com and various online retailers. When looking for a used stand or platform, try searching CraigsList.org or local newspaper classifieds.