Buying Guide for the Best Printer Scanner For Macs
When choosing a printer-scanner for your Mac, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a device that meets your needs. A good printer-scanner should be compatible with your Mac, offer high-quality prints and scans, and have the features that make your tasks easier and more efficient. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the printer-scanner can work seamlessly with your Mac. This is crucial because not all printers and scanners are designed to be compatible with macOS. To ensure compatibility, look for devices that explicitly state they support macOS. Additionally, check for available drivers and software updates from the manufacturer that are compatible with your Mac's operating system version. If you frequently update your macOS, ensure the device has a good track record of receiving timely updates.
Print QualityPrint quality is measured in dots per inch (DPI) and determines how sharp and detailed your printed documents and images will be. Higher DPI values mean better print quality. For general document printing, a DPI of 600 is usually sufficient. For high-quality photo printing, look for a printer with at least 1200 DPI. Consider your primary use: if you need to print professional-quality photos or detailed graphics, opt for a higher DPI. For everyday text documents, a lower DPI will suffice.
Scan QualityScan quality, like print quality, is also measured in DPI. Higher DPI values result in more detailed and clearer scans. For scanning text documents, a DPI of 300 is generally adequate. For scanning photos or detailed images, look for a scanner with at least 600 DPI. Determine your primary scanning needs: if you need to digitize high-resolution images or detailed documents, choose a higher DPI. For basic document scanning, a lower DPI will be sufficient.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options refer to how the printer-scanner connects to your Mac and other devices. Common options include USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. USB connections are reliable and straightforward but limit mobility. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth offer wireless convenience, allowing you to place the device anywhere within range and print or scan from multiple devices. If you prefer a clutter-free workspace and the ability to print or scan from different locations, opt for a model with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
SpeedSpeed is measured in pages per minute (PPM) for printing and images per minute (IPM) for scanning. This spec indicates how quickly the device can complete tasks. For home use, a printer with a speed of 10-20 PPM is usually sufficient. For office use, where higher volumes are common, look for speeds of 20 PPM or more. Similarly, for scanning, consider how many pages or images you need to scan regularly. If you frequently scan large documents, a higher IPM will save you time.
Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the types and sizes of paper the printer-scanner can accommodate, as well as the capacity of its paper trays. Consider the types of documents you will be printing or scanning. If you need to print on various paper sizes or types, such as envelopes, labels, or photo paper, ensure the device supports these. Also, check the paper tray capacity; a larger capacity means less frequent refilling, which is beneficial for high-volume printing tasks.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your printer-scanner. These may include duplex printing (automatic double-sided printing), an automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning multiple pages at once, and mobile printing capabilities (printing from smartphones or tablets). Consider which features will be most useful for your needs. For example, if you frequently print double-sided documents, duplex printing will save time and paper. An ADF is useful for scanning large documents without manual intervention.
