Key Features to Look for in Laser Multifunction Printers

Laser multifunction printers (MFPs) are practical and often essential devices for both home and office environments. 

They offer a convenient, all-in-one solution for printing, scanning, copying and faxing. MFPs offer a variety of features and capabilities to consider, including efficiency, sustainability, quality, and cost-effectiveness. 

Let’s explore more about laser MFPs to help refine your search and make the best decision for your needs.

What is a Laser Multifunction Printer?

A laser multifunction printer combines several capabilities — printing, scanning, copying, and faxing — into one device. 

It uses laser technology to produce high-quality prints, using a laser beam to create the image or text and toner to create the physical image on the paper. This process differs from inkjet printers, which apply ink onto paper. 

Advantages of Laser Multifunction Printers

Laser printers are known for their efficiency, speed, and high-quality output, making them ideal for environments with higher printing demands. The primary benefits of laser MFPs include:

• High-speed printing: Laser printers are generally faster than inkjet printers and can produce more pages per minute (ppm).

• Lower operating cost: Though the upfront cost may be higher, laser printers offer lower long-term costs, particularly for high-volume printing, and a longer lifespan.

• Better print quality: Laser printers produce crisp, clear text and high-resolution graphics, making them ideal for professional documents.

Key differences between Laser and Inkjet Printers

While both laser and inkjet printers serve similar functions, there are key differences:

• Technology: Laser printers use toner and a laser to transfer ink onto paper, while inkjet printers use liquid ink sprayed through tiny nozzles.

• Print quality: Laser printers excel in producing sharp, crisp text and high-resolution prints, while inkjet printers are better for photo-quality printing.

• Speed and volume: Laser printers are typically faster and better suited for larger printing jobs, whereas inkjets are slower but more cost-effective for low-volume printing.

• Cost: Laser printers tend to have higher initial pricing but lower per-page costs compared to inkjets.

Choosing the right Laser Multifunction Printer

For home offices, you may opt for a compact design, low noise levels, and energy efficiency. 

A printer with versatile wireless connectivity — Wi-Fi or Bluetooth — for mobile printing, or less expensive ink usage, can offer significant benefits for users with lighter printing needs. 

Consider a model with lower upfront costs if print volume is not high.

In a business setting, you’ll likely want a printer that can handle larger print jobs with excellent quality. In this case, assess using a higher-speed printer that produces more pages-per-minute rate. 

Advanced security features like user authentication, encryption and secure printing may also be a consideration. 

Also, look for models with large paper tray capacity or the option to add extra trays to avoid frequent refilling.

Whether you’re remote or in-office, you’ll want to estimate the number of pages you’ll print monthly. The average office worker uses 10,000 sheets of copy paper each year, which translates to about 27 sheets of paper per day.  

As previously mentioned, the volume will help determine the right speed you need, typically ranging from 25 ppm to 50 ppm or higher.

Key features to look for in a laser multifunction printer

1. High-quality printing and scanning capabilities

One of the main reasons to invest in Multifunctional printers like IM 2500 black and white laser multifunction printer is the high-quality output. Ensure the printer provides high-resolution printing — typically 1200 x 1200 dpi or higher — for clear, professional documents.

For scanning, look for at least 600 x 600 dpi for crisp, detailed scans. A model with duplex scanning (scanning both sides of a document) can enhance productivity.

2. Wireless and mobile printing options

In today’s mobile-driven world, wireless printing is a must. Look for printers that support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cloud printing options that enable printing from smartphones, tablets and laptops, offering convenience and flexibility in a connected world.

3. Security features and data protection

Security and regulatory compliance are increasingly vital for businesses, as confidential data is often stored and transmitted through printers. Choose a laser MFP with built-in security features like user authentication, data encryption, secure print job release, and audit trails. 

Cost and Efficiency Considerations

One important way to evaluate printers is to conduct a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, which includes factors like toner costs, maintenance, and energy consumption. 

A printer with a high-yield toner cartridge may be a better investment for those with high-volume printing needs, as it reduces the cost per page.

Another factor to assess is the impact of streamlined workflows, such as document scanning-to-email, automatic document feeders, integrations with workflow automation tools and cloud services, which can save time and money, and boost productivity. 

Compatibility with existing office systems, like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and other cloud-based document management solutions, can simplify and shorten processes and workflows.

Additionally, choose a printer that offers excellent customer support, including warranties, regular software updates, and accessible technical support, and is easy to maintain. 

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability has become a strategic business initiative and investment for many organizations. 

Look for laser MFPs that have energy-saving and eco-friendly features like automatic sleep modes, ENERGY STAR-certified devices, lightweight designs with recycled materials, and low-melt toner technology. 

Also, consider printers that offer duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing), reducing paper consumption.