Complete Guide, Updated January 23, 2026
Staples Color Printing Service: What to Expect, Cost, and How to Save
Staples color printing service is a convenient, widely available option for personal and business printing, offering walk-in self-service color copies, full-service counter orders, and a range of paper upgrades and finishing. If you need a last-minute presentation, marketing flyers, or classroom packets, this guide explains costs, when to use self-serve printers versus behind-the-counter help, and smart file prep tips to avoid extra fees and delays.
Quick takeaway: For small, immediate jobs use self-service color copies; for high-volume or specialty finishes, request Staples color printing service behind the counter for quality control and color calibration.
Why Staples Color Printing Service Still Matters
In an era of instant digital files, printed pieces remain tactile, persuasive, and memorable. Staples color printing service combines convenience with a broad mix of materials and finishing options, making it a strong fit for businesses that need reliable, fast outcomes without buying equipment. You get local access, predictable volume pricing for larger runs, and staff support when binding, laminating, or matching color is critical.
Editor note: This guide covers pricing patterns, paper upgrades, file preparation, and money-saving tactics. Use it as your checklist before visiting a store or uploading files online.
Staples Color Printing Cost Per Page, At-a-Glance
| Order Type | Typical Cost Per Page | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Self-service, basic 20lb / 28lb | ≈ $0.60 per page (small quantities) | Urgent, single pages, quick handouts |
| Counter service, short run (1–50) | $0.50–$1.00, depending on paper & finishing | Presentations, color brochures |
| High-volume, tiered pricing | as low as $0.25–$0.30 per page | Large training manuals, handouts |
| Premium photo/gloss paper | ~3× standard rate | Photos, high-impact brochures |
Prices vary by store and region, and promotions or coupons can change the effective per-page amount. Always check local store pricing or call ahead for exact quotes before you arrive.
Staples Color Printing Service, Paper Choices
Paper stock changes the visual weight and perceived value of any printed piece. Staples typically offers:
- 20lb–28lb standard bond, economical and light
- 60lb–110lb cardstock, heavier, gift-quality
- Photo gloss, satin, and specialty coated papers
- Scratch-, water-resistant, and recycled stock options
Premium stock usually costs 1.5x–2x more than standard paper, and glossy photo paper may be 3x+ the base price.
Finishing & Extras
Binding, lamination, folding, trimming, and UV coatings add cost but also durability and polish. Staples color printing service offers:
- Staple, spiral, comb, thermal binding
- Lamination up to a chosen thickness
- Cutting, creasing, and full-bleed trimming
- Color calibration and test prints (with counter orders)
How to Save on Staples Color Printing Service
Saving money is mostly about planning and taking advantage of promotions, loyalty, and format choices.
- Sign up for rewards: Many stores run digital coupons, and Staples’ rewards often include exclusive print discounts.
- Use economy paper for drafts: Reserve premium stock for final client-facing pieces only.
- Order in bulk when possible: Per-page rates drop significantly at higher quantities.
- Watch for promotions: Back-to-school and holidays often include copy discounts.
- Split large jobs smartly: If a promotion covers only the first X pages at a discounted rate, split orders to take advantage.
Thoughts: If your project is highly time-sensitive but also high-stakes (investor deck, product packaging mock), prioritize staff-assisted printing despite the higher per-page cost. It prevents expensive reprints.
Preparing Files for Best Results with Staples Color Printing Service
Good file prep prevents delays and extra charges. Staples accepts common file formats like PDF, Office files, and images. Here’s what we recommend before upload:
| Item | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| File format | PDF preserves layout | Export as high-quality PDF/X when possible |
| Resolution | Low res makes color prints look pixelated | 300 DPI at final size for photos |
| Color mode | RGB vs CMYK shift colors | Supply CMYK if you can, or approve a proof |
| Bleeds & margins | Prevents white edges on full-bleed designs | Include 0.125 in bleed and 0.25 in safe margins |
| Fonts | Missing fonts break layout | Embed fonts or convert text to outlines |
If you don’t have design skills, Staples color printing service staff can assist, but heavy file repairs can add fees. Preparing files yourself often saves both time and money.
Self-Service vs. Staff-Assisted: Which Is Right for You?
Both have their advantages, and the decision comes down to quantity, complexity, and importance.
| Feature | Self-Service | Staff-Assisted |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower per page for small runs | Higher per page, potential bulk savings |
| Speed | Immediate, walk-in | Depends on counter queue and turnaround |
| Quality control | User-managed, risk of mistakes | Color calibration, pre-print checks |
| Finishing | Limited | Full finishing options |
Our recommendation: use self-service for single-page, less critical handouts. Use staff-assisted printing for color-critical presentations, client-facing brochures, or large volume runs.
Staples Color Printing Service Ready-to-Print Checklist
- PDF exported and checked at 300 DPI
- CMYK color where possible, or note RGB conversion allowed
- Bleed area included (0.125 in) and safe margins (0.25 in)
- Fonts embedded or converted to outlines
- Images are not web-resolution (72 DPI) — upgrade or replace
- Decide binding and finishing before ordering
Example Pricing Scenarios for Staples Color Printing Service
These are illustrative only. Local pricing and promotions will vary.
- Small classroom handout, 30 pages, standard paper: self-service might run you around $18, while counter service could be $22 including a simple quality check.
- Event flyers, 500 copies, 60lb stock: counter service with bulk pricing often offers best per-unit price, and includes trimming and stacking.
- Photo prints for portfolio, 20 pages, photo gloss: expect premium per-page charges for glossy photo stock and color profiling.
FAQ — Staples Color Printing Service
Q: How much does color printing cost at Staples?
A: Prices vary, but small color copies typically start around $0.60 per page on basic paper. Bulk and premium papers change the price. Always call your local store or check online for current rates.
Q: Can Staples print same-day color copies?
A: Yes, many stores offer same-day service. Same-day or rush orders often have a surcharge, so plan ahead when possible.
Q: What file types should I upload?
A: PDF is the most reliable choice. Staples also accepts common Office and image files, but PDFs reduce layout issues.
Q: Do I need to convert RGB to CMYK?
A: It helps. If you can supply CMYK, you reduce surprises in color shift. Staples can convert, but pre-conversion and color proofing produce more accurate results.
Editor note: Want help preparing a file? Bring your PDF and a photo reference, and ask the counter staff for a prepress check. If color fidelity matters, request a proof before printing the full run.
Final Thoughts on Using Staples Color Printing Service
Staples color printing service is a strong, accessible option when you value convenience, store proximity, and a mix of self-service and professional options. For time-sensitive, low-cost copies, self-service is ideal. For high-volume, color-critical, or specialty-finishing jobs, ask for staff-assisted printing — the calibration and finishing usually justify the extra cost by saving reprints and time. Prepare your files, bring a sample if color accuracy matters, and check local promotions to reduce cost per page.
Last modified: January 23, 2026
Beyond weight, you can select specialty finishes like glossy photo paper for images and graphics-heavy documents. This premium option costs significantly more (approximately 3-4x standard pricing) but dramatically improves the visual impact of photographs, charts, and colorful designs. For business cards, brochures, or event invitations where first impressions matter, these upgrades justify their additional cost.
ir pricing structure, you can maximize value while enjoying the convenience their services provide.
