Multifunction machines

Are you running out of space in your office? Does each separate office unit of printer, scanner, copier, fax and phone have you tripping over cords or looking for another electrical outlet? The answer to your problem just might be multifunction office machines. You’ve heard of them, you’ve seen them; well now its time to go shopping for one. There are many brands of multi function machines and it is your job to wade through them all to find the multi function machine that fits your budget and your needs. Multifunction machines have come a long way in a short time. You can find some with so many gadgets that the operating manual has an operation manual. If this type of multifunction machine is for you then more power to you. If not; keep looking. We have made your search that much better with links to vendors, suppliers and manufacturers that can give you all the details your heart desires. Make sure you try these out in person so you can see how the machine really works.

Multifunction machines (also called "all-in-ones") save money — and space — by combining several important office machines into one device. A 3-in-1 multifunction machine is a printer, copier, and scanner; a 4-in-1 is all of these plus a fax machine; and a 5-in-1 is all of these plus a computer fax.

When should I choose a laser multifunction machine?

You should choose a laser multifunction machine if you plan to print only black-and-white documents, or if you need to print large volumes of black-and-white.

Laser multifunction machines (based on toner replacement costs) produce black-and-white text at a cost of between two and four cents per page. On the other hand, a toner cartridge in an inkjet multifunction prints black-and-white text at a cost of five to seven cents per page. Over the long run, then, businesses or households printing a lot of black-and-white documents will save money on toner by opting for a laser multifunction.

When should I choose an inkjet multifunction machine?

If, in addition to producing a modest volume (10 to 25 pages per day) of black-and-white documents, you anticipate needing to print color reports, presentations, or digital images, then you should opt for an inkjet instead of a laser multifunction machine. If you plan to print large volumes of black-and-white text and the occasional color document or image, then you may want to purchase a laser multifunction machine and a stand-alone inkjet printer. Any business or individual printing large volumes of color prints may want to invest in a stand-alone color laser printer. (Read about how a color laser printer can be a wise investment.)

One more word about inkjet multifunctions: If you want to print sharp, photo-quality digital images from your multifunction machine, opt for an inkjet model that prints at a color resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi. For optimal, professional-grade photo printing, however, you may want to consider a top-of-the line photo printer. (Read more about photo printers.)

When should I get a stand-alone copier, fax machine, printer, or scanner instead of a multifunction machine?

If you print more than 50 pages or copy, fax, or scan more than 30 pages per day, you should consider opting for a stand-alone machine for each function. (Click here to use the "Help Me Decide" multifunction tool.)

Is the printer on a multifunction machine as good as a stand-alone printer?

Depending on the model, the printer on a multifunction can be as good as or better than a stand-alone machine. The same is true of a multifunction machine's copier, fax machine, and scanner. Ultimately, you need to compare the core features.

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