Best Small Business Printer All In One
In today's fast-paced business environment, a reliable all-in-one printer is more than just an office appliance; it's the nerve center for document management, communication, and even marketing materials. For value-conscious small business owners and entrepreneurs, finding the right balance between functionality, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value is critical.
This review article aims to provide an analytical overview of the best small business all-in-one printers currently available. We'll delve into the features that matter most, compare leading models, and offer practical considerations to help you make an informed purchase.
Why an All-in-One Printer Matters for Small Businesses
An all-in-one printer combines printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities into a single device. This consolidation saves valuable office space and streamlines workflows.
The right all-in-one printer can significantly boost productivity, reduce operational costs, and enhance the professional image of your small business. Investing wisely here pays dividends down the road.
Shortlist of Top All-in-One Printers
Here's a quick look at some of the top contenders, catering to different needs and budgets:
- Best Overall: Epson EcoTank ET-4850
- Best for Budget: Canon PIXMA MG3620
- Best for High Volume: Brother MFC-L3770CDW
- Best for Photo Printing: HP ENVY Photo 7155
Detailed Reviews
Epson EcoTank ET-4850
The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 stands out due to its cartridge-free printing system, using refillable ink tanks instead. This significantly reduces ink costs over the long term.
It offers excellent print quality for both documents and photos and includes features like automatic document feeding (ADF) and wireless connectivity. Its upfront cost is higher, but the long-term savings are substantial, making it a great choice for businesses with moderate to high printing needs.
Canon PIXMA MG3620
The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a solid, affordable option for small businesses on a tight budget. It delivers decent print quality and offers wireless printing capabilities.
While it lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end models, such as ADF or Ethernet connectivity, it provides reliable performance for basic printing, scanning, and copying tasks. The initial low cost is attractive, but be mindful of higher ink cartridge costs over time.
Brother MFC-L3770CDW
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is a color laser all-in-one printer designed for high-volume printing. It offers fast print speeds and excellent print quality for both text and graphics.
It includes features like ADF, duplex printing, and wireless connectivity, making it a versatile option for busy offices. While the initial investment is higher than inkjet printers, the lower cost per page and durable performance make it a cost-effective choice for businesses that print frequently.
HP ENVY Photo 7155
The HP ENVY Photo 7155 excels in photo printing, producing vibrant and detailed images. It also performs well in document printing and offers convenient features like mobile printing and a touchscreen display.
While not specifically designed for high-volume printing, it's a great option for businesses that require high-quality photo prints for marketing materials or other visual applications. Ink costs can be higher if you primarily print photos.
Side-by-Side Specs Table
Here's a comparison of the key specifications and performance scores of the reviewed printers:
| Printer Model | Print Technology | Print Speed (Black/Color) | Print Quality | Features | Cost per Page | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epson EcoTank ET-4850 | Inkjet (Tank) | 15 ppm / 8 ppm | Excellent | ADF, Wireless, Duplex | Very Low | 9/10 |
| Canon PIXMA MG3620 | Inkjet | 9.9 ppm / 5.7 ppm | Good | Wireless, Mobile Printing | Moderate | 7/10 |
| Brother MFC-L3770CDW | Color Laser | 25 ppm / 25 ppm | Excellent | ADF, Duplex, Wireless, Ethernet | Low | 8.5/10 |
| HP ENVY Photo 7155 | Inkjet | 14 ppm / 9 ppm | Excellent (Photos) | Touchscreen, Wireless, Mobile Printing | Moderate | 8/10 |
Practical Considerations
Beyond the specs, consider these practical aspects when choosing an all-in-one printer:
- Print Volume: How many pages do you print per month? This will heavily influence whether an inkjet or laser printer is more cost-effective.
- Connectivity: Do you need wireless, Ethernet, or mobile printing capabilities?
- Paper Handling: Consider the paper tray capacity and whether you need automatic duplex printing.
- Ink/Toner Costs: Research the cost of replacement cartridges or toner and the estimated page yield.
- Warranty and Support: Check the manufacturer's warranty and the availability of customer support.
Summary
Choosing the best all-in-one printer for your small business requires careful consideration of your specific needs and budget. The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 offers long-term savings for moderate printing needs. The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a budget-friendly option for basic tasks. The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is ideal for high-volume printing.
And the HP ENVY Photo 7155 excels in photo printing. Carefully weigh the features, print volume, and long-term costs to make an informed decision.
Take Action
Ready to streamline your small business's document management? Explore the reviewed printers further, compare prices, and read user reviews to find the perfect all-in-one solution for your needs. Don't underestimate the positive impact a great printer can have on your daily operations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between inkjet and laser printers?
A: Inkjet printers use liquid ink, while laser printers use toner powder. Laser printers are generally faster and more cost-effective for high-volume text printing, while inkjet printers often offer better photo quality.
Q: What is ADF?
A: ADF stands for Automatic Document Feeder. It allows you to automatically scan or copy multiple pages without manually feeding them one at a time.
Q: What is duplex printing?
A: Duplex printing is the ability to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper. This saves paper and reduces printing costs.
Q: How important is print resolution (DPI)?
A: DPI (dots per inch) measures print resolution. Higher DPI generally means sharper and more detailed prints, especially for photos. 600 DPI is sufficient for most business documents, while 1200 DPI or higher is recommended for high-quality photo printing.
Q: Are refillable ink tank printers worth the investment?
A: For moderate to high printing volumes, refillable ink tank printers, like the Epson EcoTank series, offer significant cost savings over time compared to traditional cartridge-based printers. Although the initial cost is higher, the lower cost per page makes them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
