With so many printers on the market, it can be difficult to decide which printer is the right fit for your printing needs and budget. Multifunctional printers (MFPs) and single-function printers are divided into two categories: inkjet and laser.
While inkjet printers produce high-quality color graphics, laser printers excel at printing large volumes of text documents. Inkjet printers also tend to have a higher maintenance cost than laser printers.
MFPs vs. Single-Function Printers
There are a few things you'll need to take into consideration when deciding between a multifunctional or all-in-one printer and a single-function printer.
Most multifunctional printers can print, scan, photocopy and fax, while single-function printers can only print. It can be more cost effective to purchase an MFP if you require multiple functions
- Volume
A typical single-function inkjet printer is well-suited for businesses that limit their quantity of printing. Multi-function laser printers are better suited for businesses that require a high quantity of printing and multiple users. Inkjet printers also have a slower print per minute rate than laser MFPs, while inkjet prints an average of 10ppm most MFPs average 20ppm or higher. - Quality
If you are looking for high color quality over quantity a single-function inkjet printer will perform better than a laser MFP. On the other hand, if you are looking for a high print quantity and will compromise for a lower color quality a laser MFP may be right for you. Though the laser MFPs color quality is lower, text quality remains high. - Cost
Single-function inkjet printers are less costly than laser MFPs up front but looking at the total cost of ownership during the printer's lifespan tells a different story. A laser MFP is the best investment for higher print volumes and due to the cost of inkjet cartridges, the real cost-per-page of a laser MFP is generally lower. - Networking
If you need to connect a printer to multiple workspaces, networking features are crucial to consider. Look for a printer that supports wireless networking to make it easier to connect all of the devices on the network. If you are just planning to connect the printer to a single computer, networking features are unnecessary.
Factors like the quantity, quality, overall budget and type of printing all need to be examined when determining the type of printer that suits your needs. This information should help you decide whether a single or multifunction printer is right for you, as well as whether an inkjet or laser print is the best option.