What is a Multifunction Printer | Advantages and Disadvantages?

Multifunction printer abbreviated as MFP. It is the type of office equipment used mostly for printing and copying the documents. Photocopiers, copiers, Xerox machines, and a plethora of other names have been used for multifunction printers over time.

MFP means a printer that not only copies and prints documents but also scans, emails, and faxes. This compact guide will explain what is a multifunction printer and whether it’s a good choice or not.

What is a Multifunction Printer? | Key Features to Consider

Multifunction printers (MFPs) have become essential for educational purposes and businesses. When choosing an MFP, what should you look for? To fully understand a multifunction printer, let’s discover some essential features that should not be ignored. 

1. Scanning

First of all, you have to assess the multifunction printer’s main capability, which is scanning. Most multifunction printers support network scanning, which means you can share documents on your network and scan them directly.

That’s why you should confirm if it supports scanning over the network or only through the USB connection.

2. Copying

Some multifunction printers can function as a stand-alone copier. There is no need to connect them to a computer for basic tasks. MFP handles the copying process perfectly, whether you are copying a single paper or multiple papers.

When considering what is a multifunction printer, you need to always consult the user manual for significant instructions when choosing the printer. 

3. Automatic Document Feeder

Automatic document feeder is a time-saving feature for copying, scanning, and faxing. It allows you to copy 20 or more pages. If you load your stack of originals into the ADF tray, it can manage them effectively.

Many ADFs can tackle legal-size pages (8.5×14 inches) and standard paper size. Moreover, make sure that it can scan both sides of each page automatically. Always remember to check the specifications of the MFP. 

Advantages of Multifunction Printer

MFPs are silent workhorses in the offices. By combining all its functions, these all-in-one devices simplify processes. But what makes multifunction printer advantageous? After understanding what a multifunction printer, it is best to dive deeper into multifunction printer advantages for the sake of an informed decision!

1. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is the specific advantage of multifunction printers because it reduces power consumption. Other devices draw more power, whereas multifunction printers combine all their functions into one unit. Additionally, double-sided printing saves paper and energy. 

2. Streamlined Workstations

With multifunction printers, there is no more juggling between separate devices. The main advantage of using this printer is that it optimizes space by combining multiple functions into a single device.

So, by reducing the number of devices, MFPs will cost less. It can be placed strategically, enhancing office layout possibilities. Whether you need them near workstations or in other shared places, their compact nature allows for flexible placement. 

3. Cost Efficiency

There are many ways where multifunction printers can save your business money. Their energy efficiency lowers the monthly electricity expense for your business. This fact doubles their environmental impact.

Disadvantages of Multifunction Printer

Everything has pros and cons. To understand what is a multifunction printer, one should know its disadvantages. Let’s start with some of the common multifunction printer disadvantages:

1. Increase waiting time

A multifunction printer can only do one thing at a time. Unlike other machines, it is just one device, so all tasks are in a queue.

For instance, a booklet scanning operation might have to wait until another scanning operation is finished. If there had been two different gadgets, both tasks may have gone at the same time. 

2. Expensive Downtime

A multifunction printer has many functions, and if one of them goes wrong, then others might as well. For instance, printing can be hampered if the ink cartridge malfunctions. 

Conclusion

In today’s digital age, many people ask what is a multifunction printer. This compact guide has explained how multifunction printers are the heroes of modern offices for copying, printing, and scanning many papers at a time without any extra effort.

In a nutshell, it has many advantages as well as disadvantages. However, the dominating benefits make it a good choice compared to other single-unit devices.