Small Business Printers: A Buyer's Guide

One office, one team — a small business printer decision usually comes down to two questions: do you need to copy and scan as well as print, and do you ever need to go bigger than standard paper? Get those two right and the rest of the choice is straightforward.

Single-function or multifunction?

A single-function printer (SFP) does one job — printing — and suits a team that only needs that. Most small offices choose a multifunction device (MFP) instead: print, copy and scan from one machine, without needing a separate scanner or photocopier taking up desk space.

A3 or A4?

A4 is enough if your team never needs to go beyond standard paper size — the large majority of office documents. A3 is worth the extra cost if you occasionally handle larger documents or proofs — drawings, posters, or presentation material — even if most day-to-day printing is still A4.

Add what you need, when you need it

Most small offices don't need print tracking or document management on day one. Two tools worth knowing about once you do:

• PaperCut — Find-Me secure print release, works with any printer brand, and adds waste reduction and sustainability reporting.
• OptimiDoc — document digitisation and cloud document management, built-in print management, reducing paper and storage costs as a team goes digital.

Both run alongside your printer rather than replacing it, so there's no need to decide on them upfront — add either one later without changing hardware.

Fujifilm Apeos A3 and A4 multifunction devices are our standard recommendation for a single-site team — installed and set up ready to go, without the cost or complexity of a fleet contract. See our small business printers or call 01483 596 200 and tell us about your office.