What Functions Are Provided
By A Multifunction Printer?

Multifunction printers, sometimes referred to as MFPs or printer, scanner, fax machines, are a popular choice for many businesses and home computer users. Unlike standard colour laser printers, multifunction printers offer their users something more--usually, the ability to scan, copy, and fax documents. The abilities of these multifunction printers vary quite significantly from one model and manufacturer to the next.

For example, some multifunction printers are not capable of printing in colour. This is most common with office printers, as offices often have no need for colour pages (at least not from every printer in the company). By restricting a multifunction printer to only use black and white, companies can save money on the cost of printer ink, and they can greatly improve print times and reduce wear on a main office printer. Many office printers are multifunction printers, because offices often need to make quick copies and faxes, and it makes little sense to employ several machines to handle these functions when a single machine is available.

Multifunction printers designed for home use aren't usually restricted to black and white prints. On the contrary, their functionality may be far greater than that of an office printer, although they're not able to complete high-capacity print jobs in the same way. In many cases, a home multifunction printer will have a top-notch scanner, and may be capable of making faxes, although some are simply copier/printer units. Most multifunction office printers and home printers use standard paper and ink cartridges; ink costs about the same for a multifunction printer as it does for other types of laser printers.

If you're considering a colour laser multifunction printer, be sure to read user reviews for information about printers that you're considering. Multifunction printers are a great choice for both home and business printer needs.