Photocopying vs. Printing: Which is Cheaper for Your Business?
Photocopying is often perceived as a more budget-friendly alternative to printing. Indeed, despite being generally inexpensive, it can still produce high-quality documents.
If you need a printing or photocopying machine, we highly recommend you invest in a good quality copier or printer. We offer high-end copiers and printing machines that can meet your requirements and demands without forcing you to spend too much capital.
1. Understanding the Nature of Printing and Photocopying
To compare costs accurately, you must first understand the fundamental difference between the two processes:
What is Printing?
Printing is the process of making copies of text or images from a digital file or a hard copy that has been written or drawn. The process is carried out using a printer.
- Technology Types: The most common types are traditional inkjet (which uses liquid ink) and laser printers (which use dry toner powder).
- Modern Use: Today, the most common form of printing is using a computer to make copies on a printer.
What is Photocopying?
Photocopying is the process of making copies of a physical document or other material using a photocopier.
- Process: You make multiple copies of a document using a photocopier machine, which is usually much faster and more affordable for high volumes than printing a digital file repeatedly.
- Specialty: Most photocopiers can also make copies in the opposite direction (a mirror image), which is useful if you want your original text and images reversed.
2. Is Photocopying Cheaper Than Printing? (Cost Analysis)
Yes, photocopying is generally cheaper than printing, especially for monochrome documents. The primary reason for this cost difference is that photocopying typically uses less ink/toner per page than printing a digital file from scratch, even though both produce the same print quality.
Cost Breakdown Per Page: Photocopying vs. Printing
| Document Type | Photocopying Cost (Approx.) | Printing Cost (Approx.) | Why the Difference? |
| Black-and-White | Under 8 cents (Basic) | Around 10 cents | Photocopying uses less toner/ink. |
| Color (Light Text/Basic) | Around 15 cents | Around 25 cents | The cost saving is significant for color jobs. |
| Color (Heavy Graphics) | Up to 60 cents per page | Varies, can be higher. | Cost increases dramatically for both when heavy graphics and pictures are involved. |
For example, a basic printer for home use costs around $50 to $100, while a medium-quality photocopy at a shop can cost $0.15 to $0.25 per page. Therefore, if you need to make a large number of copies, it may be cheaper to photocopy rather than print.
Final Thoughts
When you need to make multiple copies of a document, the cheapest option is often to photocopy rather than print it. By using the copy function on a Multifunction Printer (MFP) or finding a copy shop, you can make as many copies as you want for a fraction of the cost of printing a digital file repeatedly.
Conversely, if you only need a few copies (a single copy or two), it can be cheaper to use the print function. You can further reduce costs by taking advantage of printing on-demand services, which allow you to order online at the last minute when prices are at their lowest.
You can contact us here for further details.
If you plan to get copiers for your Austin office, you can opt to buy copiers or lease copiers in Austin. We can give you the option to get the copy machine that you want. You can contact our local copier leasing services department in your location.
For all services in Austin, call Clear Choice Technical Services:
- Phone: (512) 253-7000
- Our personnel for copier leasing in Austin will assist you.
- Additionally, if you look for copier repair services in Austin, you may contact our copier repair personnel at the same number.
