How to Select a Multifunction Printer

The multifunction printer, sometimes called an all-in-one printer, brings total utility to the home office and other applications. Users have print, image scan, copy and fax ability via computer and telephone connections. These machines are cost efficient and easy to use and maintain. Learn which multifunction printer will best serve your purposes.

Instructions

Evaluate Your Multifunction Needs

1. Review your printer needs. Select between color and black and white. Select between laser or inkjet if you have a preference apart from budget (laser usually costs more than inkjet).

2. Determine the optimum print and scan resolution. For instance, if you normally print only black and white text, 600 x 600 dpi should suffice. If you print presentation-quality materials or photos, choose 4800 x 1200. If your needs are mixed, settle for something in between.

3. Decide whether you need a sheetfed or flatbed copier. Flatbeds can accept any type of media, from books to small index cards. Sheetfed can only accept standard paper sizes and thickness.

Browse Features and Select the Best Model

1. Browse multifunction models from makers such as Brother, Canon and HP. Compare print and copy resolutions and other features using a brand comparison tool like the one offered by Home Depot (see Resources below).

2. Compare fax capabilities or choose a printer without a fax function. Decide which speed, PC and/or paper fax, speed dial or enhanced dpi features are necessary.

3. Compare copy/scan features. Choose one that produces more copies per minute or one that can enlarge or reduce originals if you make a lot of copies or create presentation materials.

4. Refer to the connection (such as USB or Ethernet) and operating system specifications (such as Windows and Mac versions) before you buy to make sure that the all-in-one will work with your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy multifunction printers in computer, electronics or office supply outlets. Browse in person to see the features in action.

• Print speed and paper capacity may be influencing factors in a purchase. Check product specifications for pages per minute, paper size and maximum sheets in a paper tray.

• Some inkjet printers, while priced more inexpensively than laser printers that use toner, actually cost more to run. Check the manufacturer's estimated cost per page. You can also compare the number of watts used.

• Copy resolution can be much lower than print resolution in some models. If you want photo-quality copies, make sure you check the copy dpi.

Resources

• Save $50 on HP LaserJet or HP inkjet printers over $299
• Printer information tool at Staples.com.