Buying a Multi-Function Printer Online vs. From a Dealer - Which is Better?

The first thing that comes to mind when considering the topic of purchasing a Multi-Function Printer (MFP) online versus from a dealer is Aesop’s Fables: the story of The Tortoise and the Hare.

A quick start doesn’t ensure a fast finish.

ONLINE VS. DEALER — COMPARE AND CONTRAST

Online:

• • Cheaper
  • Faster
  • Don’t know exactly what you’ll get — e.g. refurbished vs. new
  • Might not have access to best options
  • Comes on a pallet, must be assembled, won’t have help during set up
  • Manual solution set up
  • Manual network connections
  • Must pay per service call

Dealer:

• • More expensive
  • More involved buying process
  • Safe delivery
  • Pre-assembled
  • Set up is taken care of
  • Customized solutions will be set up by the dealer
  • Dealer will manage network connections
  • Training is provided
  • Access to best options
  • Know exactly what you’ll get

ONLINE VS. DEALER — YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

There’s no doubt that purchasing a MFP from an online source is cheaper than buying from a dealer. Over the lifecycle of your MFP, however, this cost differential only remains true if your MFP doesn’t need maintenance — and let’s be honest — how often does a printer work perfectly 100% of the time?

Parts wear out, trays jam, automation solutions require upkeep and constant monitoring — and while these are all factors that will be taken care of when purchasing a MFP from a dealer, they will all be your responsibility if you’ve purchased that MFP online.

What it really comes down to is this; do you want to spend less money upfront — or save time, energy, and resources throughout the lifecycle of your MFP?

MFPs are designed to increase your business’ efficiency — if you’re taking away time from your employees’ day so they can maintain and monitor your MFP, there will be a noticeable reduction in your business’ efficiency.

If your business doesn’t plan on using your MFP all to often, and isn’t worried about automation solutions, buying a MFP online might be a good option — but be aware that for every call to a service technician, you’ll need to pay out of pocket for their services.

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