Who gets excited when they hear about copiers? Unless you’re selling or making one, not many people. And let’s face it, they are not the most exciting piece of technology. Generally, they’re perceived as the less glamorous side of technology, as most people believe they’re costly, bulky, and finicky machines. But what if we told you that many of these beliefs are based on misinformation? Let’s discuss some common misconceptions about copiers so that you can make informed decisions for your office printing needs.
1. Copiers are More Expensive Than Printers
Many people believe that copiers are considerably more expensive than printers, but this is not necessarily true. When considering the cost of a copier, it is important to take into account the total cost of ownership and not just the upfront cost. Although a small printer may be cheaper to purchase initially, when you factor in expenses like toner, parts, and labor throughout the printer’s lifespan, you may find that it is more cost-effective to invest in a multifunction printer (MFP). Additionally, the cost per page of MFPs is often lower than that of printers, especially for high-volume printing.
2. Copiers are Hard to Work With
There’s a common stereotype that copiers are the ultimate office nemesis. That’s because there’s a perceived notion that MFPs are much harder to operate than basic printers, but this is not entirely true. Most MFPs are designed to be user-friendly so the average user can easily operate them. For example, Sharp MFPs feature an intuitive touchscreen interface that is simple to navigate, regardless of the user’s skill level.
3. Color Prints are Much More Expensive Than Black and White
While it’s true that color printing typically costs more per page than black-and-white printing, the price gap has narrowed significantly in recent years. Depending on your type of unit, color prints may not cost much more than black and white prints. This is especially true for MFPs because they consume less ink and toner more efficiently.
4. Bigger is Always Better
There’s a common misconception that bigger and pricier MFPs offer superior performance and functionality. However, when it comes to office technology, the optimal choice will depend on the specific needs of your business. For instance, if you only need a compact desktop unit for your small office, you don’t need to invest in a high-volume unit with unnecessary features. It’s more cost-effective to only pay for the features you truly require. Smaller MFPs may suffice for smaller offices or low-volume printing environments, while larger MFPs are better suited for high-volume printing and advanced features such as finishing options. Assess your requirements and choose a copier that aligns with your workflow and budget.
5. Copiers Require a Lot of Service
At some point, all technologies require maintenance to maintain their performance level. Copiers are no exception, although some people may think that copiers require more maintenance than other units. This is not necessarily true and depends largely on the quality of your unit as well as your usage. For instance, if you use your copier frequently, it may require maintenance service more often than if you use it occasionally. Otherwise, periodic maintenance is sufficient to ensure your unit remains in tip-top shape. Additionally, many providers offer service agreements or managed print services that cover maintenance and repairs, resulting in predictable costs and minimized downtime.
At AD Solutions, we’re committed to providing our customers with reliable office technology solutions. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our offerings, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to assist you, even if it’s just answering your questions.
