I can't comment on our marketing strategy, even if I were in the know I couldn't really do that.
However, it's very clear that the low end models are loss leaders so the worst thing you can do to us is buy a new printer and never buy supplies or buy off-brand ink.
On the higher end models the cost curve changes since lower volume = higher relative price. But those business-targeted printers tend to be compete on TCO, like you're saying, and customers analyze cost per page and support cost, the initial purchase price doesn't really weigh in that much. The $2500 printer will have to last longer, use better materials and have some warranty cost factored in. You're absolutely right that it's not a linear scale-up from your $49 dollar printer at home.
However, it's very clear that the low end models are loss leaders so the worst thing you can do to us is buy a new printer and never buy supplies or buy off-brand ink.
On the higher end models the cost curve changes since lower volume = higher relative price. But those business-targeted printers tend to be compete on TCO, like you're saying, and customers analyze cost per page and support cost, the initial purchase price doesn't really weigh in that much. The $2500 printer will have to last longer, use better materials and have some warranty cost factored in. You're absolutely right that it's not a linear scale-up from your $49 dollar printer at home.