Top 15 best MFPs for home and office
MFP types
There are two main types of MFP printers - laser and inkjet. Laser at the moment are capturing an increasing share of the market. Typically, laser MFPs provide high quality monochrome prints, and they do it quite quickly. Inkjet printers, in turn, produce crisp color images. They work almost silently, and can also print on various types of paper, create stickers, thick postcards and stamps.
According to the color gamut, all MFPs are divided into color and black and white. Black and white printers use less ink and are therefore cheaper to refuel. These models are suitable for those who have to print a lot of documents. Colored ones reproduce any photographic material on paper. How do you choose the best device? Buy not just a printer, but an MFP. He will have a single system - inkjet or laser. But the list of functions will be supplemented by scanning and copying.
What to look for when choosing an MFP
To choose a quality MFP printer, you need to remember some criteria. And, of course, don't buy into promotions and discounts. Only devices with a number of mandatory characteristics can last a long time without damaging documents. So before purchasing your ideal MFP, remember these features:
- The print format should match the one you are interested in;
- The higher the scanner resolution, the better the quality of printed products;
- The resource of cartridges directly affects how often you need to replace them;
- The presence of CISS, that is, a continuous ink supply system, greatly simplifies the work with the MFP;
- The ability to remotely connect to the device speeds up the transfer of necessary files;
- High noise levels during work can be a nuisance, but if the office is not already quiet, this will not be a problem;
- The weight and dimensions of the MFP are usually large, but you can pick up a miniature device.
The best manufacturers of MFPs
Inkjet or laser multifunction printers must be built to exacting standards. Not all companies adhere to these guidelines and use materials to ensure durability of the device. Therefore, before buying, you should familiarize yourself with the list of firms and brands that supply high-quality printing equipment to stores:
- Canon - a multinational company focused on creating products for working with images;
- HP - a large company from the USA engaged in the production of equipment related to information technology;
- Japanese holding Epson specializes in the production of printers and cartridges for them;
- High tech company KYOCERA is headquartered in Japan;
- International brand Brother produces completely different types of equipment for home and office;
- American corporation Xerox has a leading position in the field of printing and document management.
Best Inexpensive Inkjet MFPs for Home
Home is hardly worth buying the most powerful MFP printer. Typically, home devices are used either by children for school or by students to facilitate note-taking. Neither the first nor the second situation requires perfect print quality. Therefore, take a look at the budget inkjet MFP models.
Canon PIXMA TS5040
Canon PIXMA TS5040 with updated interface is well suited for home use. This model has an LCD screen and a simple control system, which makes it easy to teach even an unprepared user to work with the MFP.The rear paper feed makes this the cheapest and most convenient model for printing borderless color photos. And Canon PIXMA TS5040 copes in just 40 seconds. The device can be installed in the house even if there is a shortage of space. It is 40% smaller than previous models, but it does the job just as well. Let's try to find at least a few flaws in this Canon product.
PROS:
- good built-in module for picking up a Wi-Fi signal;
- Vibrant printing thanks to the FINE head, common to other inkjet MFPs from Canon;
- control screen diagonal of 7.5 centimeters;
- nice design and relative portability of the device.
MINUSES:
- five separate ink tanks lead to serious expenses for the maintenance of the device;
- does not work at temperatures from +30 degrees.
HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 5075 M2U86C
Another budget model for the home is the HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 5075 M2U86C. It prints on paper sizes up to A4 using inkjet technology, it can be connected either via a USB cable or via a WiFi network. At the same time, this model produces up to 12 pages per minute, which is a good result for an MFP of this price category. The processor frequency is 360 MHz, while it can work with an electric power of 220 watts. The device is equipped with a monochrome touch screen, and a complete set of instructions is attached to it. Therefore, it may well be considered a worthy model for a child to buy for school.
PROS:
- good touch screen, which makes it easy to set up multifunctional equipment;
- Supported media - labels, envelopes, photo paper and postcards;
- USB and Wi-Fi interfaces that meet the basic needs of users;
- produces 8.5 to 12 pages per minute.
MINUSES:
- you can print up to 1000 pages per month, which is not so much with active use;
- warranty up to 12 months, so there is a possibility of unpaid breakdowns.
Canon PIXMA TR4540
The compact Canon PIXMA TR4540 multifunction printer is well suited for home offices or simple household use. Canon Print app provides remote control of the printer. Conveniently, it can be connected to different devices and media: there are both connectors for USB cables and the ability to connect via Wi-Fi. None of the options work? MFP printer allows you to work with cloud resources. The main thing is to understand the connection algorithm. Cartridges from Canon deserve special attention, they reduce ink consumption by 30% without sacrificing printing products. That is why the annual maintenance of such a printer will cost minimal amounts.
PROS:
- auto feed up to 20 sheets;
- automatic two-sided printing;
- monochrome liquid crystal screen;
- automatic on and off.
MINUSES:
- works only at temperatures from +15 to +30 degrees;
- low optical resolution when scanning.
The best inkjet MFPs for the office in terms of price-performance ratio
Office MFPs need to be slightly more powerful than home MFPs. First, such devices are used more often. Secondly, working with paper sometimes involves both color printing and the creation of hundreds of copies of the same type in black and white. What if the budget for the purchase of equipment for work is also limited? Choose from the following three models.
Brother MFC-J3930DW
The Brother MFC-J3930DW Professional Inkjet MFP meets the needs of offices with print, scan, copy and fax up to A3. In a month, this type of MFP can withstand a load of up to 30,000 pages, so it is even used by small printers. The device prepares one page in less than six seconds, while in black and white mode it produces up to 35 pages per minute, and in color this number is reduced to 20-22. But such pictures will be printed in good resolution and with high-quality reproduction of details. Well, to deal with the controls and all the characteristics helps the color touchscreen LCD display with a diagonal of 9.3 centimeters.
PROS:
- in operating mode consumes 29 W;
- the sound pressure is approximately 50 dB;
- supports almost all types of consumables;
- good speed of work, allowing you to process up to 30,000 papers per month.
MINUSES:
- the guarantee from the manufacturing company does not exceed 12 months;
- somewhat high price, so it is hardly suitable for small offices.
Canon PIXMA G4411
Canon PIXMA G4411 is literally a device with functions of four others at once: printer, fax, scanner and copier. That is why it is foolish to deny its relevance in office work. This development supports connection via Wi-Fi, so several people can use it at once. The main reason for including this model in the top is because of its special color reproduction developed by Canon. Pigment black ink provides sharpness to business papers, and water-soluble color ink gives richness to A4 photos and images. By the way, you can do them completely without borders.
PROS:
- increased resource for printing;
- two-line liquid crystal display for the user;
- built-in ink tanks;
- Canon Print app.
MINUSES:
- does not work at temperatures above +35 degrees and below +15;
- high price, but there are relatively profitable offers and discounts, promotions on the Internet.
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C5790DWF
Another four-in-one MFP is called the Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C5790DWF. Of course, it costs a lot. But because of the system of built-in ink tanks, about 10,000 pages can be printed without using expensive cartridges. The maximum paper load is 830 sheets, and it is as easy as possible to renew the resource. In general, one of Epson's strengths is its obvious concern for user convenience. We also note the new generation Epson PrecisionCore printhead. It rarely breaks down, and indeed only a small number of device parts may need to be repaired or replaced. This is due to the use of durable and time-tested materials at all stages of production.
PROS:
- prints up to 34 pages per minute;
- Epson DURABrite Ultra pigment ink;
- creates up to 45,000 pages per month;
- there is a Wi-Fi connection.
MINUSES:
- Epson warranty up to a year;
- there is no support for SD Apps.
The best laser MFPs for color printing
Laser MFPs for color printing are one of the most common types of devices for reproducing electronic images on paper. Usually they are bought not at home, but in the office or, for example, in a small printing house. The devices are of sufficient quality by default, but even in this category of products there are undisputed leaders.
Brother DCP-L8410CDW
The Brother DCP-L8410CDW Electrophotographic Laser Multifunction Printer produces high quality images in color. It is powered by AC, and the exact power consumption depends on which mode the device is operating in. It is important to note that the device has a good sound pressure level: from 0 to 49 dB. What can you say about the appearance and configuration of this MFP? It has a 250-sheet deep tray that can hold any printable media up to A4. In this case, it will be possible to print on them from both sides at once. The good news is that for any of the four operating modes there is a choice: make a copy, fax, scan or print in color or monochrome.
PROS:
- produces up to 33 pages per minute;
- has a USB port and wireless connectivity;
- clear instructions;
- convenient display.
MINUSES:
- does not work at temperatures from 32 degrees Celsius;
- massive and not too aesthetic.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M180n
The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M180n is manufactured in Vietnam. This device produces up to 30,000 pages per month, so it can be used at home, in the office or in a tiny print shop. Moreover, the device combines color and monochrome printing. Both are produced at a speed of 16 pages per minute. Copying has the same speed, all thanks to a powerful 800 MHz processor. By the way, users note that the processor of this MFP is as resistant as possible. The minimum number of breakdowns falls on it, which captivates users. After all, as you know, replacing a processor is the most expensive.But the benefits of buying such an MFP do not end there either.
PROS:
- makes up to 30,000 pages per month;
- processes up to A4 format;
- good touch screen for easy control;
- Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and the use of cloud file sharing.
MINUSES:
- HP warranty up to one year;
- no USB included.
KYOCERA ECOSYS M5521cdw
The KYOCERA ECOSYS M5521cdw MFP produces up to 21 A4 color or monochrome pages per minute. It takes no more than 32 seconds to warm up, so you can work with such a device, even if you process a lot of files per month. This model of MFP supports all types of connection, and, regardless of the channel through which the file is received, its quality is preserved. The device is quite durable, in the reviews, cases of breakdown are almost never mentioned. Perhaps this is due to the fact that it is completely not mobile. Usually the KYOCERA ECOSYS M5521cdw MFP is bought for home offices. In the last year, this model has faded into the background due to its size and sluggishness. But there are also pluses.
PROS:
- enough electricity from a simple home outlet;
- 512 MB built-in memory, which is a lot compared to the performance of other MFP models;
- manufacturer's warranty for two years, that is, twice as long as that of the products of other companies;
- there is a function of double-sided printing.
MINUSES:
- the weight of the device is 26 kilograms, so its transfer or transportation is difficult;
- toners often deteriorate prematurely, according to Russian-language reviews.
The best laser MFPs for black and white printing
Laser multifunction printers with black and white printing are suitable when creating printouts literally has an industrial scale. The device processes a huge amount of paper per day without interruption. And the print quality of laser MFP models is somewhat better than that of inkjet models ... It would seem that the next three would be ideal. But even she has her drawbacks.
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w delivers superior monochrome printing. This device is mechanically controlled, aided by numerous indicator lights and a bright display with text prompts. Because of the laser device, this MFP printer significantly saves ink, so the amount that you have to pay for its annual maintenance is minimal. The paper input tray holds 100 to 150 sheets. It is also important to mention how the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28w synchronizes with storage media: you can use cloud storage, as well as USB cables or wireless networks. In fact, this model is one of the most convenient.
PROS:
- the maximum noise level is 52 dB;
- one-color print resolution 600x600 dpi;
- produces 18 pages per minute;
- the maximum load in 30 days is 8000 sheets.
MINUSES:
- the amount of RAM does not exceed 32 MB;
- in the reviews they complain about thin and fragile plastic walls and covers.
Brother DCP-L2520DWR
The Brother DCP-L2520DWR MFP is the optimum solution from Brother for those who print, fax, scan and copy copious amounts of black and white documents. Mostly text. This Vietnam-made multifunctional device can process up to 12,000 pages per month, thanks to its powerful laser-based design. The copy speed of this model is 26 pages per minute, the same intensity as that of the printing unit DCP-L2520DWR. The built-in scanner is capable of processing formats up to A4 inclusive. Therefore, it is great for both home and office use. The low noise level during operation is also pleasing: only 49 dB.
PROS:
- black cartridge and software included;
- the print resolution of the MFP is 600x2400 dpi, which makes the images quite detailed;
- pleasing to the eye, laconic design that allows you to fit the MFP into any interior;
- the ability to connect via USB or Wi-Fi, depending on the user's desire.
MINUSES:
- manufacturer's warranty up to 12 months;
- the built-in memory of this MFP is 32 GB.
Xerox WorkCentre 3025BI
The Xerox WorkCentre 3025BI Personal Laser Multifunction Printer combines the lowest cost with impressive results. It can scan, print, and copy papers. The maximum load on the MFP is 15,000 pages per month, so it can be installed both in the office and at home. In terms of work per minute, the MFP's speed is about 20 pages in 60 seconds, which is good enough for products that are barely advertised. The resolution of the file being processed is 1200x1200 dpi. It is apt to call this a good result: given the price of the WorkCentre 3025BI, you are unlikely to find a better deal.
PROS:
- good two-line LCD screen, reflecting the settings of the MFP;
- tray capacity is 100-150 pages;
- Supports Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print;
- double-sided printing in manual format.
MINUSES:
- fax is available only in NI package;
- the weight of 7.5 kilograms makes it difficult to move the MFP.
The best MFPs with CISS
The continuous ink supply system makes life much easier for the user. Thanks to her, he does not have to worry that the printing will turn out to be insufficiently saturated. But such a nice feature increases the market value of the MFP. Should you pay extra for comfort and clearer lines? Here everyone decides for himself.
HP Ink Tank Wireless 419
The HP Ink Tank Wireless 419 model has a reliable CISS, so it deservedly leads the next three MFP printers. This inkjet printer has a built-in copier and scanner so it can meet all basic needs. The maximum emitted noise level does not exceed 47 dB, so it can be installed even in a nursery or bedroom. Other nice features of this HP development include borderless printing and the ability to work even without a PC connection. By the way, you can connect the device to the carrier via Wi-Fi networks. It should be remembered that the monthly load for such a device is 1000 pages. Therefore, it is better not to put it in the office.
PROS:
- resolution 1200 × 1200 dpi for black and white printing and 1200 × 4800 dpi for color;
- prints from five to eight pages per minute;
- 256 shades of gray;
- Supported media - labels, envelopes, photo paper, cards, postcards.
MINUSES:
- Chinese assembly;
- The manufacturer's warranty does not exceed 12 months.
Brother DCP-T310 InkBenefit Plus
The Brother DCP-T310 InkBenefit Plus inkjet MFP is energy efficient with only 14W of power. The paper feed tray can hold up to 150 sheets, with an image or text in color or black and white. The device has a fairly easy-to-understand monochrome display that reflects all the processes or reasons why the printer is not working. A control panel with buttons allows you to understand the principles of the device literally intuitively. Of course, if you have to use the MFP for the first time, you can refer to the instructions. It, like any other Brother technique, is as detailed and simple as possible.
PROS:
- noise level up to 50 dB;
- prints up to 12 pages per minute;
- CD with standard software settings included;
- monthly load up to 1000 pages, which makes the model a good home printer.
MINUSES:
- parts are manufactured and assembled in China;
- the minimum paper weight is 64 grams per square meter, and the maximum is about 300.
Epson L3050
The last of the printers with CISS presented in this part of the MFP rating is called the Epson L3050. This versatile development can transfer the image to thick postcards, stickers, as well as glossy photo paper. A simple and semi-professional printer that works with both USB and WiFi. The USB cable is included with the setup disk. And wireless exchange is possible both with a stationary computer and with a tablet or mobile phone. This MFP printer can work with a power outlet of 220 V, while it can produce up to 33 pages per minute. But is this model so perfect? Let's try to understand its advantages and disadvantages.
PROS:
- built-in copier and a fairly high-quality scanner;
- one drop contains three picoliters;
- produces up to 20 copies per cycle;
- print speed is 33 pages per minute and color is 15 pages per minute.
MINUSES:
- the warranty period is one year;
- four types of paint are needed to refill the device.
Which MFP is better to choose
To choose the best quality printer, you need to finally understand why you are buying it. If you need an MFP for home use, you can save money and buy a black and white inkjet model. If you are engaged in printing professionally or almost at a master level, it is better to choose some kind of laser, LED device. Looking for a printing machine to set up in your office? In this case, you need to think about an MFP for color printing. Of course, you need to look closely at the individual characteristics of the purchased model. Better yet, purchase something from the list of printing devices described above.
