Laser printers use toner which will not dry out the same way an ink cartridge does. Unlike ink, which is liquid-based, toner is a dry powder composed of plastic components so it will not dry out. You can leave a toner cartridge in your printer for weeks untouched and it should still print.

Do laser printers dry up if not used?

No, unlike the ink that is used on inkjet printers, toners from laser printers don't dry up even if you leave them for a long time. ... Instead of ink, laser printers need toner, a fine powder that forms the text and images that you print on the paper, which is found in a toner cartridge.

How long do laser printers last?

The printer's lifetime depends on the model, level of use and operating conditions. Most desktop laser printers have an expected lifetime of about five years. In most cases, a laser printer allows for replacement of major components when they wear out, so you can keep the unit going long after its warranty expires.