What Is the Difference Between a Printer and a Copier?

Ever wondered what the main differences are between a printer and a copier? Both devices serve important document reproduction needs in the office, but they are designed to perform different core functions. Understanding the key distinctions can help you determine when to use a printer versus a copier based on your business requirements. Read on as we break down the differences.

Both Print and Copy

As their names suggest, a key capability that both printers and copiers share is the ability to put words and images on paper. Printers specifically excel at printing from digital files on your computer. Most also have scanning and copying functions, but printing is their main purpose. Copiers focus more heavily on reproducing physical hard-copy originals. However, today's multifunction copiers incorporate many of the same printing capabilities as a standard printer.

Speed

From small office printers to industrial-sized copier models leased from printer leasing companies, another factor that differentiates the two machine types is speed. Printers made for home or light duty tend to print anywhere from 10 to 30 pages per minute on average. Heavy-duty office copiers blast out copies at speeds from 30 all the way up to 100 pages per minute or even higher. When you have to reproduce long reports or stacks of documents in a hurry, a high-volume copier is the clear winner.

Color

Do you need color or only black and white output? Not all machines handle both. Some more basic printers and copiers can only print black text and grayscale images. Full-color models have significantly higher purchase and lease costs, so printer leasing companies usually charge more for them. Evaluate how essential color is for your specific needs when deciding between color-capable versus black and white-only machines.

Purpose Matters Most

In reality, you can print from a copier and make photocopies from a printer. So why does it matter whether you call it one or the other? Looking at your specific purposes for the machine determines what features are more or less important. Consider things such as how much you print, scan, or copy.

Before selecting either a copier or printer, especially high-end models leased from printer leasing companies, validate that the features and options match up best with your planned applications. According to First Research, the largest 50 companies in the printer industry hold about 30% of the market, making it a highly fragmented industry. Carefully considering the differences outlined here allows zeroing in on just the right model. If you're in need of a leased printer or copier, reach out to Click Copiers for guidance.