The Ultimate Guide to Selecting an Office Printer: Inkjet vs. Laser and Beyond
Choosing the right office printer today is more complex than ever before. With advancements in technology, printers now come equipped with features that boost security, save resources, and enhance overall efficiency. Whether you’re selecting your first printer or upgrading to meet expanding business needs, this guide will help you navigate the decision-making process and find the perfect printer for your office.
Laser vs. Inkjet: Which Printer Is Right for You?
Let’s start with the basics: the difference between laser and inkjet printers.
- Inkjet printers use liquid ink from cartridges to create images on paper. They excel in printing high-quality images with vibrant colors and can handle various paper types.
- Laser printers use toner and electricity to fuse images onto paper. If your office handles a high volume of black-and-white documents and speed is crucial, a monochrome laser printer is your best bet. While colour laser printers are available, they may not deliver the same level of colour quality as an inkjet.
Before making your choice, consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term expenses associated with each type. While ink cartridges might be cheaper upfront, toner cartridges typically last longer. If you’re upgrading, take a holistic look at your current printing operations. Tools like the ApeosWare Management Suite from FUJIFILM Business Innovation can help you analyse print usage, costs, and efficiency, ensuring you make a well-informed decision.
Single or Multifunction Printers: What’s Best for Your Office?
A multifunction printer (MFP) is a versatile machine that combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities, all in one. This is ideal if you want to maximise office space and reduce the number of devices you manage. Modern MFPs, like FUJIFILM’s ApeosPort series, offer features such as mobile printing and Wi-Fi Direct, making it easier to print from various devices.
However, if your office requires high-volume, specialised printing—such as contracts or invoices—a dedicated single-function printer might be a better choice to ensure fast, reliable performance.
Top 5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printer
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Security
- Protecting sensitive information is critical, especially when printers are connected to the internet. Newer models come with enhanced security features like Follow Me Printing and Confidential Print to ensure documents don’t fall into the wrong hands. For added protection, consider a model like the ApeosPort 4020, which includes whitelisting capabilities to restrict access only to approved users.
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Speed
- In a busy office, speed matters. If you need to print large volumes quickly, look for a printer with high-speed capabilities and options for print output control and finishing. The ApeosPro C810, for example, offers Print-On-Demand functionality for quick turnaround on marketing materials and complex data files.
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Size and Portability
- Space constraints and portability are also important. Inkjet printers are typically smaller and more affordable, making them ideal for small or home offices. On the other hand, laser printers, though larger, offer greater functionality and faster speeds. If you need mobility, consider a model with built-in wheels for easy transport.
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Ease of Use and Maintenance
- Choose a printer that’s easy to set up and maintain, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. FX Business Technologies Cairns offers comprehensive after-sales support, including the ServicePRO package with fast response times and proactive maintenance through Smart Remote Service, ensuring your devices operate at peak performance.
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Sustainability
- Reducing your environmental impact is increasingly important. Look for printers with energy-saving features like ECO-MODE, double-sided printing, and low-power modes. FUJIFILM’s Green Reports provide detailed insights into your device’s environmental impact, helping you make informed decisions that benefit both your business and the planet.
Find the Perfect Printer for Your Business
FX Business Technologies Cairns offers state-of-the-art printers tailored to meet the needs of any business. With our Print Management Solution, you can oversee your organisation’s printing from a single dashboard, tracking costs, securing print jobs, and accessing detailed analytics. Optimise your printing process, reduce your environmental footprint, and take your business to the next level with FUJIFILM’s innovative solutions. Contact us today to find the perfect printer for your office.
