In today’s technological world, copiers and multifunction printers are almost indistinguishable from each other. Standalone copiers still exist today, but are more rare than machines that perform several functions. So how can you tell whether a copier or a multifunction printer is best for your company? Here’s all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision.
Copier vs. Multifunction Printer
It’s important to realize that a networked copier that performs several functions is different than a standalone copier. A standalone copier is a machine that you must walk up to in order to use; you can’t send a document to be printed from a computer, in other words. Standalone copiers are a good option for organizations that make a large volume of copies every day, and are often used in law firms or accounting firms.
Comparing Function
A standalone copier’s function is quite self-explanatory: it copies documents. Copiers that are networked and perform several functions often print, scan, copy, and fax.
A multifunction printer, on the other hand, is designed with multitasking in mind. MFPs generally print, scan, copy, and fax, as well as copy to file (such as creating a PDF from a scanned document).
Comparing Features
This is where copiers and multifunction printers become more different. Copiers and MFPs have different features that lend themselves to different use. Copiers are well-suited to heavy use and document production. Copier-based machines are often designed to do heavy-duty work with finishing features such as binding and sorting.
Multifunction printers function well for everyday office use. They can handle the brunt of regular scanning, copying, faxing, and printing, and are generally a good all-around machine for the office to share.
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