So, you're shopping for new office equipment and hit the big question: Do we need a printer… or should we go for a multifunction printer (MFP)?
It’s a common dilemma for growing businesses, remote teams, and even seasoned office pros. At Reliable Workplace Solutions, we’ve spent over 30 years helping companies make smart decisions about their printing setup—and we’re here to help you decide what’s right for your team.
Let’s break it down.
What’s the Difference?
A printer is straightforward.
It prints. That’s it. If all you need is to hit “Ctrl + P” and grab your paper, a standard printer gets the job done.
An MFP (Multifunction Printer) is the all-in-one solution.
It prints, scans, copies, and sometimes faxes—basically the office Swiss Army knife.
When a Printer Makes Sense
Sometimes simple is smart. Here’s when a basic printer might be all you need:
- You print occasionally — Just a few pages here and there? No need to overbuy.
- You already have a scanner — If scanning or copying is already covered elsewhere, a dedicated printer can round out your setup.
- Space is tight — Printers are usually smaller and more desk-friendly than MFPs.
- Budget is limited — Basic printers often have a lower upfront cost.
✅ Tip: A compact Kyocera printer is perfect for small teams or remote employees.
When to Go with an MFP
If your office is running on paper and productivity, an MFP might be your best bet:
- You handle a lot of documents — Scanning contracts, copying forms, printing reports? MFPs simplify it all.
- You need to go digital — Scan-to-email and cloud upload features make it easy to digitize your documents.
- You want to save time — No more running to different machines for different tasks.
- You want fewer devices — One machine = less clutter, less maintenance, and fewer headaches.
🔄 Bonus: Kyocera MFPs come with smart workflows and secure document handling—great for busy teams and compliance-heavy industries.
Other Factors to Consider
Here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
- Print Volume: If you're printing hundreds of pages a week, go for a model built for higher capacity—whether printer or MFP.
- Security Needs: MFPs often offer more robust security features, like user authentication and secure print release.
- Network Capabilities: Need multiple users to access the same device? Choose a network-ready model.
- Future Growth: Buying for today is great. But planning for tomorrow? Even better.
Final Thoughts: Printer or MFP?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but the right machine can make your team more efficient and your life a whole lot easier.
Still unsure? That’s what we’re here for.
Let’s figure it out together.
Visit www.reliableworkplace.com or give us a call. We’ll help you choose the right Kyocera solution to match your needs, space, and budget—no guesswork required.