What type of printer is best for small business?
Having a reliable and efficient printer can make a big difference in productivity in businesses of all sizes – but for a SMB (small to medium business), the right printer could also affect your bottom line.
With so many options available, it can be difficult to know what printer will deliver the best outcomes for your business and fit your budget.
The first step in deciding what printer you need is knowing what each one does. Let’s explore the most used printers for small businesses.
Laser printers
Laser printers are known for their exceptional speed and high-quality text printing. They utilise laser technology to produce sharp, crisp prints, making them ideal for businesses that require professional-looking documents. Laser printers are often more expensive upfront, but they offer lower running costs in the long run due to their efficient toner usage.
All-in-one printers
If your SMB needs a multi-functional device that combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, an all-in-one printer is worth considering. These printers offer convenience and space-saving advantages, eliminating the need for multiple devices cluttering your office. They provide a comprehensive solution whilst maintaining decent print quality and efficiency.
Once you’ve chosen the right type of printer, it’s crucial to consider connectivity options and costs, as they can also have a significant impact on your business’ productivity and expenditure.
Wireless and network connectivity
Connectivity now plays a vital role in business. Wireless and network-enabled printers allow multiple users to print from different devices, no direct cabling needed. This feature is especially beneficial in collaborative work environments, coworking spaces, or businesses with remote workers. Ensure the printer you choose supports the necessary wireless standards and has robust security features to protect sensitive business information.
Consider total cost of ownership
When selecting a printer, it's essential to evaluate the total cost of ownership. Consider factors such as the initial purchase price, cost, and availability of consumables (ink or toner cartridges), maintenance requirements, and potential repair expenses. Although budget constraints are significant for small businesses, investing in a reliable printer with reasonable operating costs can save you money in the long term and prevent productivity setbacks.
What about Managed Print Services (MPS)?
Most people that run a small or medium business are short on time and find Managed Print Services (MPS) to be an affordable and easy solution.
What is MPS? It’s like a subscription system, where a monthly fee to a printing specialist like NQBE, which covers all maintenance, monitoring, and optimising print output, as well as replacing consumables when needed (find out more about whether an MPS might be right for your business here).
An MPS allows you to spend more time on your business and less time on printer issues.
With all options considered, selecting a printer that works for your team can enhance productivity, streamline your workflow, reduce your environmental footprint and ensure high-quality prints.
Need further advice? The Widebay IT team can conduct a free printing audit to decide what will work best for you. Contact us today to find your ideal printing system.