If you own a small business, you know how important it is to have the right equipment. One tool that often gets overlooked is the humble copier. However, it plays a vital role in many businesses. From making duplicates of important documents to printing out marketing materials, a good copier can save you time and money.
The trick is figuring out which one is going to be best for your business. Every business has different needs and there is the right copier for each of them. Since no all copiers are equal, it’s up to you to find the perfect fit. In this article, we will go over how you can choose the right one for your company.
Know the types
There are several types of copiers out there, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few of the ones you will need to be aware of.
Inkjet Copiers: These are popular for their high-quality color prints. They are a solid choice if your business needs to produce vibrant reports or promotional materials.Keep in mind that these tend to be high maintenance so make sure you have a reliable company like Regiment of Repair on call to handle repairs.
Laser Copiers: For businesses that print a lot, but mostly in black and white, laser copiers are a great fit. They’re fast and efficient, with cheaper running costs than inkjets. However, color laser copiers can be expensive.
All-in-One Copiers: These machines are perfect for small businesses that want to do more than just copy. With the ability to scan, print, and sometimes even fax, they can save space and money.
What features to look for
When it comes to selecting a copier for your small business, certain features are particularly important. One of these is speed, often measured in pages per minute (PPM). If your business requires a substantial amount of printing in a short amount of time, a copier with a high PPM could be essential.
The quality of printing is another critical aspect to take into account. Businesses that need high-quality color prints, perhaps for professional brochures or presentations, should prioritize this feature.
The physical size of the copier is also a factor worth considering. Depending on the space available in your office, you might need to opt for a more compact model, or you could accommodate a larger machine.
Consider the cost
When you’re choosing a copier for your small business, you must take the costs into account. And remember, the cost of a copier is not just about the upfront price. It also includes the running costs.
The ink or toner used by the copier is a significant part of these running costs. For instance, while inkjet copiers may seem like a bargain at first, the ink can often be expensive, raising the overall cost of operation. On the other hand, laser copiers, which are generally pricier to purchase, can be more cost-effective in the long run as they use toner more efficiently.
