Advantages of Multifunction Printers

Date: February 22, 2010

New York, NY -- Just to set the record straight from the beginning, this brief article is not attempting in any way to debunk or degrade any single function printers. Multifunction printers (MFPs) or all-in-ones (AIOs) are among the most popular purchases in printer sales today. Objectively, this makes sense, especially in today’s economy where cost can trump almost any other variable.

With technology advancing steadily, the speed and print quality advantages that single function laser printers had has lessened to some degree. With more powerful, business-oriented models being produced by major printer manufacturers, there is money to be saved without sacrificing other things. Offices looking to save money could look to things like Lexmark’s new line of machines that are geared towards professional use.

Another factor for MFPs/AIOs is the space they take up (or rather, the space the don’t). Space can be at a premium, especially in small offices or home-based businesses. Those people would probably be hard pressed to find enough space for a fax machine, printer, copier and scanner, not to mention the amount of wires it would take. Using AIOs allows you to have all of that functionality in one machine (and for one, reasonable price) that can rest comfortably in the corner of your desk. Now with wireless models, the only cord it needs may be the power cord to plug it into an outlet or surge protector. Other functionality becoming more common in AIOs are automatic document feeders and automatic duplexing for better paper handling.

Bottom line, if you are looking for a new printer, why not look at one that does more than just prints. You may just be surprised at what your money can get you.

BY ADAM HAIGH, Editor