What are all-in-one printers?
An all-in-one printer (also known as an AIO, a multifunction printer, or an MFP) combines the features of more than one device in one package. At its simplest, an all-in-one offers a printer (either an inkjet or a laser printer) together with a scanner so that it can act as a printer, a scanner, and a copier. Many all-in-one devices also have the capability of sending and receiving faxes, which make them very useful for home offices and small businesses.
All-in-one printers can start at about $100, but expect to spend at least $200 to $300 for devices with fax and other extras.
How do all-in-one printers work?
All-in-one printers are simply combinations of a printer with a scanning unit. This means that you get a lot more usability out of your machine. For example, you can scan documents and either store them in your PC or print them out immediately (so that the device acts as a copier). You can also scan documents and either send them to your PC for faxing, or fax them directly from the multifunction. And because all these functions are contained in one unit, you save space, and don't have to deal with multiple connections.
What costs comes with all-in-ones?
An all-in-one uses the same supplies as ordinary printers: toner if it is a laser printer, ink if it is an inkjet printer. The only additional cost can be if there is a problem with the device: If, for example, the scanner needs to be repaired, you will also be deprived of your printer.
What are the advantages of all-in-ones?
- Convenient
- Saves space
Disadvantages?
- Repairs means you are deprived of both printer and scanner.
