If you run a business that requires a lot of printing and copying, you know the importance of having a reliable and efficient copy machine. However, with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. If you're in the market for a new copy machine, or looking to upgrade your current one, here are some tips for choosing the best office copiers in Fairbanks, AK.
Assess Your Needs
Before you start looking at copy machines, it's important to assess your needs. How much do you need to print and copy on a daily basis? Do you need color or black-and-white copies? Do you need additional features such as scanning, faxing, or stapling? Start by making a list of the most essential functionalities your copy machine needs to have. Once you have a thorough understanding of what is essential in your office's copier, you can start adding features that would improve the copier's functionality for your office, but which aren't necessarily essential. By understanding your needs, you can narrow down your options and choose a copy machine that fits your requirements and how you'll be using the machine.
Consider Your Budget
Another important factor to consider when choosing a copy machine is your budget. Copy machines come in a range of prices, from affordable entry-level models to high-end machines with all the bells and whistles. Determine how much you can afford to spend, and look for copy machines that fit within your budget. Of course, it's important to manage your expectations regarding what you can get for your budget. Consider doing some research into the average cost of a machine that has those necessities you outlined in the step above. This will give you an idea of what such a machine will cost, so you can set your budget appropriately, or perhaps remove some of those "wants" from your list in order to find something that's more affordable for your business.
Choose the Right Type of Copy Machine
There are a few different types of copy machines available, each with their own pros and cons. Here are the most common types:
Inkjet: Inkjet copy machines are affordable and produce high-quality color prints, but the cost of ink cartridges can add up over time.
Laser: Laser copy machines are faster and more efficient than inkjet machines, but can be more expensive up front.
Multifunction: Multifunction copy machines can print, scan, copy, and fax all in one machine, making them a great option for businesses that need multiple functions.
Digital: Digital copy machines produce high-quality copies and offer advanced features such as collating, stapling, and hole punching.
Consider the Cost of Consumables
In addition to the upfront cost of the copy machine, it's important to consider the cost of consumables such as toner, ink cartridges, and paper. Some copy machines require specific types of consumables, which can be more expensive than others. Make sure to factor in the ongoing cost of consumables when choosing a copy machine.
Additionally, all copy machines have some level of maintenance required on a regular basis. While these costs can be more difficult to parse out, you can usually get a good idea of what to expect in terms of maintenance expenses with a simple internet search. The average lifetime maintenance costs of most machines can be found online.
Check the Speed and Capacity
The speed and capacity of the copy machine are also important factors to consider. If you need to make a lot of copies quickly, look for a copy machine with a fast copying speed. Similarly, if you need to copy large documents or multiple pages, look for a copy machine with a large paper capacity. While a few seconds' difference in print speed might seem minor, that time can really add up for offices that do a lot of printing. This means your employees will spend less time standing in line at the printer, and more time getting things done.
Research the Manufacturer
The manufacturer of the machine you're considering is just as important as the machine itself. While you certainly don't need to fixate on a single big-name brand to get a good copier, it's important that you know who the manufacturer is, and feel confident that they're an established, reliable company. They should have a good reputation for selling high-quality products that last, so you can feel confident you're not getting a cheaply-made copier that's going to fail within the first year. Doing a little bit of research into the manufacturer of the printer you're buying can save you a lot of headaches down the road, and leads us to our next tip.
Look for a Warranty and Support
Finally, make sure to choose a copy machine that comes with a warranty and support. If anything goes wrong with the machine, you want to make sure you can get it fixed quickly and easily. Look for a copy machine that comes with a warranty that will cover the cost of unexpected repairs in the first few years, and offers support from the manufacturer or seller. These kinds of services are much easier to find in reputable, well-established companies, so if you've done your research and picked a name you feel you can trust, there's a good chance that these will already be attached to the printer you choose.
Call or Stop by Arctic Office Products Today
If you're in the market for a new copy machine, or looking to upgrade your current one, Arctic Office Products can help. We offer a wide selection of copy machines in Fairbanks, AK, from top brands like Canon, HP, and Xerox. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right copy machine for your needs, and we offer delivery and installation to make the process as easy as possible. Call or stop by Arctic Office Products today to learn more about the different models of office copiers we carry. Our team of experts is here to help you find the perfect copy machine to meet your needs, and we're always happy to answer any questions you may have.