Multifunction or standard printer: features
The difference between the two is easy to explain. Standard printers only print, while multifunction devices also have secondary functions: copying, scanning and even faxing. In short, a multifunction device combines several machines in one.
Latest-generation products have the following features:
- black-and-white / colour printing
- short warm-up time
- compatibility with Windows and Mac operating systems
- support for a wide variety of paper types
- low energy consumption
- secure authentication
- smart operation panel with a customisable interface
- operation from Android and iOS devices
- connection to external cloud services
- human presence sensor
Types of printer
Multifunction printers work just like standard ones: using inkjet or laser technology. Inkjet is preferable for high-quality colour images, while laser is ideal for large volumes of text documents. It is also worth mentioning that laser models are easier to maintain.
Of course, there are also machines that use other printing technologies for specific products.
For example, a latex printer is used for billboards, banners, flags, advertising posters, stickers and large photos.
Personalised clothing and other fabrics require a different product. Look at DTG textile printers, which can print on light and dark T-shirts, hoodies, bags and more, made from 100% cotton, polyester blends or metallic foils.
Another subcategory is plotters, designed for CAD, GIS, PFP and graphic arts applications. Their advanced technology delivers superb, smudge-free, UV-resistant images with precise lines.
The benefits of a multifunction printer
Let's start with the purchase cost, which is lower if you choose a multifunction printer. As a rule, you will spend less on one all-in-one device than on several separate machines – assuming, of course, that you need all of them.
Running costs are also lower. Even though a multifunction device uses more electricity than a scanner, printer or copier on its own, it only takes up one socket. Remember that electronics draw power even on standby! In the long run, the difference on your bill will be clear.
Last but not least, it takes up less space. This is an important advantage in small offices or homes, where you want an airy, uncluttered room.
The drawbacks of a multifunction printer
Combining three or four machines in one can also be a drawback. Laptops have the same problem, as they contain the processing unit, screen, keyboard and touchpad. If you accidentally spill water on the keyboard, you cannot replace it straight away – you have to take the whole laptop in for repair. The same applies here: if the device breaks down, you temporarily lose all its functions.
The second drawback concerns replacing components. If your printer, scanner, copier and fax are separate devices, you can replace any of them with newer versions at any time. With a multifunction device this is impossible, so you cannot upgrade to a different scanner model, for example. You may also find that you do not use the copy function very often. Again, you cannot sell just that device to recoup some of your money, because it is part of a single unit.
By buying a multifunction printer, you get several functions from the same device. Although it can involve extra costs, it is the right solution for those who need all of its features, as it increases efficiency.
