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Multifunction vs. Standalone Printers
CHRISTINE FRIETCHEN, editor-in-chief
Multifunction printers (MFPs), which print, copy, scan and fax, are becoming more popular than standalone printers, and they're a good option if you need to occasionally copy or scan documents.
However, experts say you shouldn't pay for more functions than you'll use. If you don't anticipate much copying or faxing in your computing future, you'll probably be better served by a regular color inkjet printer. You'll pay less money for speedier output, and quality may be better. MFPs also take up significantly more desktop space than a regular printer.
Our Reviews
Advantages
- Lower long-term costs
- Excellent text, graphics printing
- Long duty cycle
Disadvantages
- Initially expensive
- Not the best photo printing
Advantages
- Basic models are inexpensive
- Better models are excellent with photos
Disadvantages
- Replacement ink can cost more than the printer
- Text quality not as crisp as laser models
Advantages
- Fast
- Low running costs
- Excellent text printing
Disadvantages
- Grayscale-only printing
- Not the best for photos
Advantages
- Can print, copy, scan and fax
- Less expensive than separate devices
- Good photo printing
Disadvantages
- Bulky
- Overkill if you don't need to scan or copy
Advantages
- Makes 4-inch-by-6-inch prints
- Easy to use
- Compact
Disadvantages
- Can't make larger photos
- Can't print other documents
- Require special ink, paper