Office equipment has long been firmly established in our daily lives. It is difficult to imagine an office that does not have a multifunctional device (MFP), or simply a printer for outputting information from a computer screen to paper. The scope of application of such products is wide - they are used not only in offices, but also in production, in apartments and private houses. Due to the variety of types and types of heating equipment, the presence of additional functionality, it is difficult to figure out which device is best to purchase.
In this article, we will learn what to look for so as not to make mistakes when choosing, and we will also make a rating of the most economical printers based on basic characteristics, as well as reviews from real customers.
How to choose a printer
Before you make a purchase, you need to decide where the computer equipment will be used - for the office or for the home. In the first case, the device requires high printing speed (measured in the number of pages per minute), as well as efficiency in the use of consumables (the less often you need to refill a toner or cartridge, the lower the cost of ink), and electricity (which is important for large volumes of printing ). It is also worth clarifying what format the documents are planned to be - devices that accept A3 and larger sheets cost an order of magnitude more.
When using a printer at home, the above parameters are not so important, and the cost of the device comes to the fore, since the requirements for the device are minimal (the information needs to be simply printed; speed and quality do not matter much).
After determining the main task, you need to clarify whether it is easy to find and purchase consumables for the selected model in stores in your city, since they will have to be purchased periodically. If you do not know how to refill office equipment yourself, you also need to find out how much the toner refill service will cost.
With cheap consumables
Laser models are suitable as home printers with cheap consumables. The price of the devices themselves is slightly higher than inkjet ones, but the difference disappears after just a few months of active use.
Brother HL-1110R
pros
- 20 ppm
- unchip cartridge with drum
- ease of settings
Minuses
- 20 ppm
- unchip cartridge with drum
- ease of settings
From 5945 ₽
The printer is easy to use. The cartridge counter is reset manually after refilling. But the quality of the drawing is not up to par. This is a wired model, but does not come with a USB cable.
Kyocera FS-1040
pros
- 100,000 sheet drum
- 2500 page cartridge
- paper density 60-220 g/m2
- large tray – 250 l.
Minuses
- overall: 6.3 kg, 36*24*26 cm
- no wifi
- density 600×600 dpi
From 7205 ₽
This corded printer is suitable for heavy workloads because it works flawlessly with a variety of cartridges and paper types. It accepts refueling normally. It prints with low density, but quickly and a lot.
Laser or inkjet
Inkjet technology attracts the attention of buyers due to its low cost. However, experts do not recommend buying such devices if the device is required to perform a large amount of work, since the cost of consumables for the device can hit the pocket hard, and in some cases, even exceed the final cost of the purchase.
The advantages of such printers include high print quality - you can print photographs not only on special photo paper, but also on standard one. Changing the ink fluid is a labor-intensive process, and in order to simplify it, some models use a continuous ink supply system, but this is expensive and further increases the final cost per printed page. Another disadvantage of such devices is that if they are not used for a long time, the ink in the toner may dry out, and you will have to buy a new container. Other features include low printing speed, rapid loss of quality of printed ink at the slightest contact with water (ink spreads), and ink fading when exposed to ultraviolet rays for a long time. In modern new products, many of these shortcomings are leveled out, however, due to their high cost, the average consumer cannot afford such devices.
Laser printers are an order of magnitude more expensive than inkjet competitors, but much more economical in terms of refilling. One container can be enough for 2,000 pages of text or more. Among the disadvantages, we can note the fact that black and white models are most often found in stores, and it is not so easy to find a color one on the open market. You can refill the toner of a laser device yourself, without the involvement of specialists. Repairing such a toner will cost an order of magnitude cheaper than that of an inkjet printer.
Ways to save money when using your printer
Economists have noticed that MFP manufacturers have come up with an excellent way to make money by selling their goods - they sell office equipment almost at cost, forcing the buyer to make a purchase, after which they unjustifiably inflate the cost of consumables, thereby receiving excess profits from their sale.
In this section, we will look at ways to save money when printing documents:
- A simple but little-known method. Not many people know that the Times new Roman font consumes a large amount of ink compared to its analogues. Thus, fonts such as Arial and Garamond require the least amount of paint. Software developers have even come up with special economical fonts (which are purchased for a fee) - for example, Ecofont will save more than 50% of the cost of refilling a cartridge.
- Work using black and white ink. At home, most users do not think about saving money and print documents in color. Switching to black and white mode will significantly save the family budget.
- When printing information from the Internet, you do not need to display the entire page on the device, but go to the “Print” menu, after which only the information that the user needs (without pictures, advertising, website sections, etc.) will be sent to the MFP.
- Use only original cartridges. Due to the fact that many users buy cheap Chinese analogues, which after a short period of time fail, forcing them to make a new purchase, the costs of heating equipment increase. To avoid additional costs, we recommend purchasing only original components.
- Not many people know that in printer settings there is such an option as draft printing. It is a viewable version of text or image, using a minimum of paint, and of satisfactory quality. Such documents can be displayed if subsequent editing is required and their appearance does not play a big role.
Four factors to consider
In an office, an MFP is used primarily for printing documents. But when we buy equipment for our home, we expect a little more from it than from an office assistant. That is why other requirements are imposed on a home device:
- Color print. Preferably on photo paper, because sooner or later you will want to print photographs, posters and any other images.
- Wireless network support. If in the office you can afford a bunch of wires disguised behind baseboards and hanging structures, then at home this is more difficult. It’s easier if the printer supports Wi-Fi and can print material from a smartphone, laptop, or PC.
- Cheap consumables. The cheaper the better. But if your budget allows, you can treat yourself to laser technology.
- Affordable price. Few people want to overpay when buying a good MFP printer exclusively for personal use.
Rating of the best and most economical printers
For black and white printing
In this category, laser devices have no equal, despite the high cost of the device, the price of one processed sheet is the lowest, however, we will also consider inkjet analogues.
Xerox Phaser 3020BI
The products of the American brand have been present on the office equipment market for a long time and are among the TOP of the best, since they have proven themselves well over the course of their work. Since the company began its work at the dawn of the advent of copiers, it has accumulated extensive experience in this area, constantly introducing innovations in the development and production of finished products.
In addition to the device itself, the delivery package for this model includes a power cord, instruction manual, cartridge, and a CD with additional information. The main feature of this model is the ability to connect to a personal computer using Wi-fi at a relatively budget price. In addition, you can use a standard connection via a USB module. According to buyers, the advantages of the manufacturing company include the fact that the cable for this connection is included in the package and does not need to be purchased additionally.
The appearance of the device is standard, without any standout features. The body is made of white plastic, the lid is also blue plastic. To avoid damage during transportation, all moving elements are secured with tape. There are several indicators on the cover - signaling that the cartridge is empty, setting up the Wi-fi interface, device status (working, error, etc.). The overall dimensions allow the device to be placed even in a small niche, making it suitable not only for a small office, but also for an apartment.
The manufacturer claims that the printer is capable of printing up to 20 pages per minute, which is a good indicator for equipment of this level. You can refill the toner at home yourself; the price of the container itself does not exceed 4,000 rubles, and 1,000 for a compatible analogue. The capacity of the paint container is approximately 1,500 sheets. There are several modes for printing - standard (600x600 dpi), and high quality (1200x1200 dpi). Duplex printing is present, but only manual (the user has to turn the pages independently). Most devices can work via Wi-Fi without any complaints, however, there are units on sale that require additional configuration, tips and recommendations for which can be found on specialized forums. The average price of goods is 6,500 rubles.
Xerox Phaser 3020BI
Advantages:
- there is a Wi-fi module, which is an important selection criterion for many buyers;
- high-quality components;
- inexpensive in price and consumables;
- a large number of positive customer reviews.
Flaws:
- Among the reviews of some buyers there are complaints about the incorrect operation of the Wi-fi module;
- Supports formats no larger than A4.
Brother MFC-L2720DWR
This device belongs to the category of MFPs - multifunctional devices that can not only print documents, but also scan them, as well as photocopy. The body of the product is made in black, which makes it possible to install it in any interior. This model is suitable for a small office and will replace several devices at once, such as a printer or scanner, copier. A device with a fax function is suitable for those companies that operate via fax communications.
All necessary information on working with the device can be read on a small screen located next to the lid. The display is touchscreen and color, which is rare in MFPs of this level. The connection to the computer is made via USB or via a wireless access point via Wi-fi. The device supports connections with mobile gadgets using special applications such as Google Cloud Print, iPrint&Scan, etc.
The delivery set includes a cartridge, an image drum, the MFP itself, a user manual, an installation CD, and a cable for connecting to a telephone line. Unlike the previous contender, you will have to purchase a USB cable yourself. According to the description on the manufacturer’s website, the MFP can use both regular and high-speed paper, as well as recycled sheets. Users note high printing and scanning speeds, large tray capacity, fax capabilities, and a color LCD display.
Brother MFC-L2720DWR
Advantages:
- replaces 4 pieces of office equipment;
- there is an automatic feed of sheets for scanning;
- high resolution scanner;
- universal colors;
- color LCD display;
- It is possible to apply text or a drawing not only to standard paper, but also to film, labels, and envelopes.
Flaws:
- USB cable not included;
- It’s difficult to find a retail outlet where you can buy the device right away; it’s easier to order it online in an online store;
- Some buyers note that the auto-feed tray does not work correctly ("paper jams").
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428dw
The review continues with one of the best representatives of the HP MFP line. The popularity of models from this manufacturer is due to the high quality and reliability of components, which allows you to buy heating equipment once and for a long time. A thermal printer with automatic two-sided printing will cover the needs of even a large office, as it is configured for high-speed printing and scanning. Like the previous representative, this MFP can replace 4 devices at once. According to the manufacturer, the device is suitable for a department consisting of 3-10 people, with an average text output volume of up to 4,000 pages per month.
In addition to the device itself, the delivery set includes a network cable, telephone cord, USB cable, cartridge, and instruction manual. The software is not included in the package; it must be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. A distinctive feature of the device is the ability to use two different cartridges with it - 3,000 pages (included in the package), and 10,000 pages (purchased separately). To protect against the use of non-original cartridges, the manufacturer has provided the ability to configure the MFP, which will allow it to accept only original consumables.
In appearance, the device does not differ from the branded line: there is a receiving tray at the bottom, an automatic paper feed compartment at the top, and a screen with control buttons at the very top. It can rotate in one plane for user convenience.
Buyers note the convenient scanner cover - it can be fixed in various positions. The MFP provides a large number of settings for various parameters, making it possible to work not only in conjunction with a computer, but also autonomously. It is also possible to work with mobile devices using a Wi-Fi Direct access point. Among the interesting functions, we can note the presence of a function for storing deferred tasks - documents can be printed not immediately, but after a specified period of time. Due to the fact that photo output is not a core function of this MFP, you should not expect high-quality performance from them. However, all elements are printed clearly, without obvious defects. Sheet processing speed is up to 38 pieces in mono mode, 31 in duplex mode. If necessary, documents can be encrypted using a PIN code, which will protect them from unauthorized viewing. The average price of goods is 23,000 rubles.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428dw
Advantages:
- high speed of document processing;
- color LCD display;
- replaces a large number of office equipment;
- large capacity of trays;
- there is a preview of the scanned image on the device panel;
- the largest cartridge capacity of the models under consideration.
Flaws:
- high price;
- large overall dimensions;
- Some customers have complained about the complicated menu when scanning.
Canon i-SENSYS LBP6030B
As stated by the manufacturer, this technique is the best choice for use at home. Buyers note the attractive design, as well as a simple and understandable menu, which makes working with the device convenient from the first minutes. Since this is a budget device, you should not expect it to perform complex tasks; its main function is to process standard A4 documents.
The package does not include a USB cable, and therefore experienced users recommend purchasing it immediately when purchasing the printer. Along with the device in the box you can find software on an optical disc, a network cable and a cartridge. The cost of refilling a cartridge at the service costs about 350 rubles; after several refills, it may be necessary to replace some elements (photo drum, shaft).
The device is economical not only in the cost of the product itself, but also when refilling. It uses a standard toner, which even in the original is inexpensive, and if you wish, you can find an analogue for sale at a price of 500 to 1,000 rubles. Experts also note the high maintainability of the device - any breakdowns that occur are usually minor and can be repaired at any service center for a small amount of money.
Users note that the printer processes documents faster than stated by the manufacturer and does not produce much noise. If the latest version of the operating system is installed on your computer, problems may arise with installing drivers on the device. The average price of goods is 7,500 rubles.
Canon i-SENSYS LBP6030B
Advantages:
- minimum price among similar analogues;
- one of the best price-quality ratios that are on sale;
- simple printing technology that is time-tested.
Flaws:
- there are no additional features that more expensive competitors are equipped with;
- consumes a lot of electricity during operation.
Let's present the main characteristics of black and white models in a comparative table.
| Index | Xerox Phaser 3020BI | Brother MFC-L2720DWR | HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428dw | Canon i-SENSYS LBP6030B |
| Chroma | black and white | black and white | black and white | black and white |
| Application area | small office | small office | medium office | small office |
| Accommodation | desktop | desktop | desktop | desktop |
| Maximum format | A4 | A4 | A4 | A4 |
| Print speed, ppm | 20 | 30 | 38 | 18 |
| Paper feed tray, pcs. | 151 | 251 | 900 | 150 |
| Paper output tray, pcs. | 100 | 100 | 150 | 100 |
| Overall dimensions, (WxHxD) | 331x188x215 mm | 409x316x398 | 420x323x390 | 364x199x249 |
| Weight, kg | 4.1 | 10.9 | 12.9 | 5 |
| Supported OS | Windows, Linux, Mac OS, iOS | Windows, Linux, Mac OS, iOS | Windows, Linux, Mac OS, iOS, Android | Windows, Linux, Mac OS |
| Power consumption during operation, W | 313 | 510 | 510 | 870 |
| Interfaces | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, Ethernet (RJ-45), USB | Wi-Fi, Ethernet (RJ-45), USB, Bluetooth | USB |
| Availability of screen | absent | color LCD | color LCD | absent |
For color printing
Canon PIXMA MG2540S
This is one of the most popular MFP models today, which is intended for use at home or in a small office. This is one of the most budget devices with the ability to thermally print photos. Buyers note the bright colors and high-quality photo printing.
When purchasing, it is worth considering that the package does not include a USB cable, which is better to buy in advance. Since there is also no Wi-fi module, communication with a computer cannot be established without an additional purchase. It is worth noting that the price of such a cable can reach a quarter of the cost of the device itself. In the box with the MFP you can find two cartridges at once, which is rarely seen nowadays.
Working with the MFP is clear and does not cause difficulties. On the installation disk, along with the driver, there is a program that can be used to perform the required actions with the printer. Black and white printing is not satisfactory, but when printing in color, users note the following disadvantages: there is no frameless function, one of the fields is larger than the others (the left one), dark colors turn out inexpressive. Scanning runs flawlessly. Since the device is inkjet, the price of consumables is high. To solve the problem, some people buy a CISS system separately, but it also costs a lot. Users note that the ink in the cartridges does not dry out with infrequent use. The average price of goods is 2,500 rubles.
Canon PIXMA MG2540S
Advantages:
- budget price;
- Available at most electronics and hardware stores;
- replaces 3 office devices;
- quality components.
Flaws:
- The delivery package does not include a USB cable, without which it is impossible to interact with a computer;
- low speed of document processing;
- high cost of refilling cartridges.
Epson L3100S
The rating of high-quality color printers continues with the Epson model, which is equipped with a CISS, thanks to which it not only quickly processes documents, but also has protection against drying out, and is also convenient to refill. Even a child can cope with filling the toner. Buyers note that compared to other similar devices, the cost of printing one sheet is more economical.
The delivery set includes the device itself, operating instructions, a disk with the installation program, paint for the first filling (four jars of 65 ml each), and a power cord. The USB cable must be purchased separately. Due to the fact that there is also no network interface, it is impossible to work with the device without this cable. The manufacturer recommends using the printer in a small office or at home, since the document processing speed is low. The product is made in black, has a non-standard shape with a protrusion on the right side. The finishing material is not easily soiled and does not leave fingerprints.
Users note that, despite the fact that this is an inkjet MFP, its document processing speed is almost as good as a laser one. Separately, it is worth mentioning the cost of ink - its price is an order of magnitude lower than that of other competitors, due to which the cost of servicing the device is not much different from its laser counterpart. Among the disadvantages, one can highlight the peculiarity of photocopying - after the tenth page, the speed drops to 1 sheet per few minutes. The average price of goods is 12,600 rubles.
Epson L3100S
Advantages:
- inexpensive ink;
- there is a CISS system;
- convenient refueling.
Flaws:
- USB cable not included;
- high price;
- slow photocopying (for volumes of 10 sheets or more).
HP Color Laser MFP 178nw
This model is popular in many offices due to its versatility, as well as the speed and quality of performing assigned tasks. Despite the fact that the device is marked with the HP brand, in fact it is an improved Samsung 3305 model with corresponding advantages and disadvantages. The device has a Wi-fi module, so it can be installed remotely from the computer. There is also an LPT port. Supports FireWire technology.
The device is a multifunctional device and combines the characteristics of a printer (piezoelectric system), scanner and copier. Buyers note the unusually budget price of the product, which is compensated by the cost of consumables - four original toners will cost the same as what was spent on the purchase of the MFP. Among the unusual features is the LED display backlight, which automatically turns on if the room becomes dark.
Due to the fact that chips for this product have not yet been released, refilling toners is not easy. If it is not possible to find a service center that can cope with this task, the user will have to buy an expensive set of new cartridges, since analogues to the original cannot yet be found. The average price of goods is 17,000 rubles.
HP Color Laser MFP 178nw
Advantages:
- copes with assigned tasks without complaints;
- low cost compared to competitors;
- small dimensions.
Flaws:
- On the Internet you can find a large number of customer complaints that the device cannot be refilled due to the fact that the chips for it have not yet been released, and there is no replacement for the original cartridges.
Xerox Phaser 6510N
This model is designed for a large volume of work and is purchased primarily for offices. This device is designed for intensive use, and therefore has an increased cartridge capacity and document processing speed, as well as tray capacity. The device operates using LED technology, thanks to which the permissible load on the device is 50,000 pages per month or more.
The paper input trays can hold up to 850 sheets, with the option of adding an additional compartment to increase capacity by an additional 550 pages. Buyers note how easy it is to operate the device; after unpacking and connecting it to a computer, you can immediately use it. All necessary cables are included with the device. There is a Wi-Fi module and an infrared port, making interaction with the printer possible from any compatible device. The sublimation technology declared by the manufacturer and the improved color cartridge contribute to high quality printing. Thanks to the high capacity of cartridges and the use of modern technologies, the device is much more economical than its direct competitors. The average price of goods is 23,500 rubles.
Xerox Phaser 6510N
Advantages:
- high speed of document processing;
- spacious paper trays;
- high cartridge resource;
- small dimensions for such a device;
- a large number of positive customer reviews.
Flaws:
- high price.
Let's make a comparative table of color MFPs:
| Index | Canon PIXMA MG2540S | Epson L3100 | HP Color Laser MFP 178nw | Xerox Phaser 6510N |
| Chroma | color | color | color | color |
| Application area | small office | small office | small office | medium office |
| Accommodation | desktop | desktop | desktop | desktop |
| MFP | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum format | A4 | A4 | A4 | A4 |
| Number of flowers, pcs | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Print speed, ppm | 8 (black and white), 5, (color) | 33 (black and white), 15 (color) | 18 (black and white), 4 (color) | 28 (black and white and color) |
| Paper feed tray, pcs. | 60 | 100 | 150 | 850 |
| Paper output tray, pcs. | 60 | 30 | 50 | 150 |
| Overall dimensions, (WxHxD) | 426x145x306 | 375x179x347 | 406x289x423 | 420x347x483 |
| Weight, kg | 3.5 | 3.9 | 12.94 | 23.8 |
| Supported OS | Windows, Mac OS | Windows, Mac OS | Windows, iOS, Android | Windows, Linux, Mac OS, iOS |
| Power consumption during operation, W | 9 | 12 | 300 | 350 |
| Interfaces | USB | USB | Wi-Fi, Ethernet (RJ-45), USB | Ethernet (RJ-45), USB |
| Availability of screen | absent | absent | There is | There is |
