Best Copier For Small Business
Running a small business? Then you know every penny counts! We're here to help you navigate the confusing world of copiers and find the absolute cheapest option that still gets the job done.
Why You Even Need a Copier (Or Do You?)
Okay, let's be honest. In this digital age, do you really need a copier? Maybe. Think about invoices, contracts, and the occasional flyer. If you're printing, scanning, and copying frequently, a dedicated machine can save you serious time and frustration.
The Bargain Hunter's Shortlist: Our Top Picks
We've scoured the market to find the best copiers for small businesses on a budget. Here are our top picks, broken down by need and price point:
- The Ultra-Budget Option: Brother MFC-L2710DW - Bare bones, but reliable.
- The Sweet Spot: Canon imageCLASS MF264dw - Great features for the price.
- The "Future-Proof" Choice: Epson EcoTank ET-M2170 - Ink tank system saves you in the long run.
Detailed Reviews: Digging Into the Dirt Cheap
Brother MFC-L2710DW: The No-Frills Champion
This is your basic black and white laser printer/copier/scanner. It's cheap to buy, and the toner cartridges are reasonably priced. Don't expect blazing fast speeds or fancy features, but it gets the job done.
The lack of color printing might be a deal-breaker for some. However, if you're primarily printing documents, it's a solid choice.
Canon imageCLASS MF264dw: Balancing Price and Performance
The Canon imageCLASS MF264dw is a step up in terms of features and performance. You get faster printing speeds, duplex printing (printing on both sides of the page automatically), and a slightly better scanner.
It's still a monochrome printer, but the overall value is excellent. The initial cost is a bit higher, but the toner lasts longer than the Brother.
Epson EcoTank ET-M2170: The Long-Term Savings Play
The Epson EcoTank ET-M2170 is an investment. The initial cost is significantly higher than the other two, but it uses an ink tank system instead of cartridges.
This means you refill the ink with bottles, which are far cheaper than replacing cartridges. If you print a lot, this can save you hundreds of dollars over the life of the printer.
Side-by-Side Specs and Performance Scores
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a comparison table to help you visualize the key differences:
| Feature | Brother MFC-L2710DW | Canon imageCLASS MF264dw | Epson EcoTank ET-M2170 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser (Monochrome) | Laser (Monochrome) | Inkjet (Monochrome) |
| Print Speed (ppm) | 30 | 30 | 20 |
| Duplex Printing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scanner | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Initial Cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Maintenance Cost | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Overall Score (Out of 5) | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 |
What the People Think: Customer Satisfaction Data
We scoured online reviews to get a sense of real-world user experiences. Here's a summary of customer satisfaction:
- Brother MFC-L2710DW: Users appreciate the low price and reliability. Complaints center around the basic feature set.
- Canon imageCLASS MF264dw: Customers are generally happy with the performance and value. Some have reported occasional paper jams.
- Epson EcoTank ET-M2170: The ink tank system is a big hit. Users rave about the low running costs. A few have mentioned the initial setup can be a bit tricky.
Maintenance Cost Projections: The Real Price You Pay
The initial cost is only part of the story. You also need to factor in maintenance costs, primarily toner or ink.
The Brother and Canon use toner cartridges, which will need replacing periodically. The Epson uses bottled ink, which is significantly cheaper per page. Expect long-term saving with Epson EcoTank ET-M2170.
Summary: Making the Right Choice for Your Wallet
Choosing the right copier for your small business is all about balancing your needs with your budget. The Brother is a no-nonsense option if price is your primary concern. The Canon offers a better balance of features and performance. The Epson is the best choice if you print a lot and are willing to invest more upfront.
Consider your printing volume, feature requirements, and long-term costs before making a decision. Don't be afraid to shop around and compare prices!
Ready to Save Money? Take Action Now!
Don't waste another dollar on overpriced printing! Research the models we've highlighted, read customer reviews, and compare prices. Your business (and your bank account) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have questions? We've got answers:
Q: What's the difference between laser and inkjet?
A: Laser printers use toner, which is a powder, while inkjet printers use liquid ink. Laser printers are generally faster and more efficient for text-based documents. Inkjet printers are better for photos and graphics (especially color inkjet).
Q: How do I calculate the cost per page?
A: Divide the cost of the toner/ink cartridge by the estimated number of pages it will print. This will give you a rough idea of the cost per page.
Q: Do I need a color copier?
A: If you frequently print marketing materials or documents with color graphics, then yes. Otherwise, a monochrome copier will likely suffice. You can also outsource color printing when needed.
Q: What does "duplex printing" mean?
A: Duplex printing means the printer can automatically print on both sides of the page. This saves paper and can reduce your overall printing costs.
Q: Where can I find the best deals on copiers?
A: Check online retailers like Amazon, Staples, and Best Buy. Also, look for sales and promotions from manufacturers directly.
