The Key Differences Between Copiers and Multifunction Printers

There was a time when it was easy to tell what an office copier and printer could do; one was only for copying, the other was for printing. These machines used to stand alone, unconnected from the rest of the office. They couldn't "talk" to each other the way today's devices do, and they served one function only.

Today's machines are a far cry from those of yesteryear. Today's devices communicate with each other and perform multiple functions. This is extremely convenient for the modern business, but it can also make it difficult to distinguish between copiers and printers. Today's copiers and printers perform many of the same functions, so people often use the terms interchangeably. Here's what the real differences are.

Copier Functions

If you're looking at a standalone copier, you're dealing with a machine that performs one task: it copies documents. A typical model uses a platen glass bed to that a user can lay a document on, then choose specifications, and push "Copy."

Today's digital copiers often do much more than the standalone models, although these are still available and popular with companies who need serious copying power. More typical copiers are much like printers; they're networked into your business's internet, they print as well as copy, and you can scan copies for electronic retrieval instead of hard copy printing.

Multifunction Printer Functions

A multifunction printer combines the above functionality of a copier with a printer, scanner, and fax machine. These machines are more popular than ever as companies look to maximize productivity. These machines come in many shapes and sizes these days, with a model that fits every office's needs.

If you're interested in purchasing a new copier or multifunction printer, contact us. We can supply all of your office equipment and device rental needs.