Multi-Functional Printer vs Desktop Printer

1. Features

It should go without saying that your office printing equipment must be capable of fulfilling your businesses requirements.

Buying on price rather than functionality would be false economy. You will more than likely incur additional costs further down the line as you struggle to maintain and service the cheaper model.

Verdict:

It is entirely down to your businesses requirements. If you very rarely print, a desktop machine will suffice.

However, if you frequently print or require slightly more complex functionality such as scanning to email or A3 printing, you will be better off using a multi-functional device.

2. Costs

There is no definitive answer to the question of which is cheaper. There is no doubt that it is cheaper to purchase a desktop printer, however, due to the cost of toner & ink cartridges, they are extremely expensive to run.

Multi-Functional Printers however, are far more economical and therefore have much lower running costs. With an MFP service contract you pay a small amount for each page you print, rather than having to purchase a new cartridge whenever you run out.

Verdict:

If your business is printing 500 pages or more per month, the chances are you will have a lower total cost of ownership with a multi-functional printer.

3. Security

With cyber-crime an ever present threat, it is now more important than ever to ensure that all sensitive data is secured.

Modern MFP’s come with an array of built-in and additional security features. Whether you wish to encrypt sensitive documents, enforce identification or erase a hard-drive, providing you’re with a reputable supplier, these will all be relatively easy to achieve.

Desktop printers however, are largely unsecured and vulnerable to data theft/loss.

Verdict:

There can only be one winner. If your business processes sensitive documents and you wish to protect that data, you simply must invest in a secure Multi-Function Printer.

4. Physical Footprint

Another important point to consider is the difference in size between a desktop device and an MFP.

Verdict:

If space is at a premium, a desktop device will always have a smaller footprint. However, considering a single MFP can process the workload of a fleet of desktop devices, it is largely dependant on your print volumes.

If you have any questions regarding the use of desktop or multi-function printers, please get in touch using the form below: