The most important question that you need to ask yourself before buying any model of printer or multifunction device is how much we will print !? Based on an understanding of the volume and format of printing, it will be easier to choose the optimal model, taking into account productivity and useful functions. You can familiarize yourself with our MFP rating to simplify your task. But all the same, first we recommend deciding on the main characteristics, classification and expert advice.
Types of multifunction devices
Not so long ago it was believed that the best printers in the world are laser models. Later, due to lower cost of color and black-and-white printing, inkjet counterparts gained wide popularity. Currently, there are 3 types of multifunctional printing devices:
- Inkjet MFP - pigment dyes are used as fuel, which are applied to the paper in microscopic portions. During the operation of such an instrument, the print head moves from one side of the sheet to the other, evenly applying ink. Such models are great for printing photos;
- Laser MFP - like faxes, they work on the basis of a special dye (toner). The main advantage is the accelerated drying process. When choosing a laser MFP, keep in mind that such models are better suited for working with documents, but not photos;
- MFP with CISS - an inkjet model equipped with special tubes that interfere with the paint. Modern models can be equipped with a built-in ink tank, connected by a silicone loop with capsules or cartridges. The use of such an MFP with CISS can achieve several times savings. For obvious reasons, continuous ink models are more commonly used by large companies. For domestic needs, an ordinary inkjet or laser model is enough, depending on the needs of the user.
Print format
When choosing an MFP for home use, it’s important not to be mistaken with the printed format — the maximum paper size. Obviously, devices for A3 are designed for operation in offices, advertising agencies, photo salons. Specialized models for the A5 format are not on sale. For printing sheets of 10 by 15 cm (A6), models designed for designers and photographers are also used. That is, they are not intended for domestic needs. It follows that the average user needs to focus exclusively on those MFPs that work with A4 print format. The size of such sheets is 210 by 297 centimeters.
Print speed
For some reason, many users believe that this option must be considered when choosing an MFP for the office, but it is not a priority for the home. This is a wrong opinion, and the wrong approach to buying equipment. Of course, if you do not know what the deadline is, you will have enough productivity of 10 pages per minute. But, if 2-3 people use the device, the optimal rate is 20 pages per minute. As a rule, in student years a lot of money is spent on black and white paint. Therefore, it is worth considering buying an MFP with CISS.For the office, you need a more powerful device that can print from 50 pages in a specified period of time.
IFI Expert Advice
Based on the feedback of the repairmen, the most common reason for the repair of inkjet printers is incorrect operation. The fact is that in such models the cartridges can dry out. Therefore, they must be operated regularly, at least for the sake of prevention. If you do not know how to choose an MFP for your home, it will also be useful for you to find out about how to connect the equipment: to a PC or network. As a rule, the second option is more often used in offices. USB is often used for home use, but Wi-Fi connection is definitely more convenient. Also note that cartridge life is limited. Therefore, the maintenance of inkjet models is more expensive. Although the initial price of such equipment is lower.
Modern printers and multifunctional printing devices include a lot of useless features and additions. We will try to pay attention to the most necessary options, the knowledge of which will be useful to you when choosing an MFP for home use:
- duplex - the ability to print text on both sides of the sheet;
- automatic feeder - you can digitize a document;
- telephone module - function of the fax machine;
- network connectivity support;
- USB drive support.
Thus, a laser MFP is more often used for the home, since it does not provide any restrictions in terms of the amount of work. You can print from 10 pages per month, and nothing will happen to him. However, such models do not do very well with drawings, tables, and diagrams. For color printing, it is best to purchase an inkjet model. For large volumes of work, it is desirable that it is also equipped with a continuous ink supply system.
