What conversation about A3 and A4 machines would be complete without a roundup on the latest and greatest releases from the industry’s leading manufacturers? This month’s State of the Industry focus on the alpha and the omega of printers has you covered.
Many OEMs have rolled out updates and additions to their popular lines in recent years, and we’ve gathered them here to provide you the CliffsNotes version of the units. Other companies are willing to pull back the curtain on releases ticketed for the near future. Read on for more detailed information from 11 of the industry’s top manufacturers:
Avision Labs
Avision‘s A3-sized AM7650i and A4-sized AM43A Plus MFP with smart image processing technology offer users a range of robust features, including integrated blank page removal, auto orientation, image de-skewing and precise cropping through the use of one copy button. Using one click, printouts will always come out right side up with all the blank pages removed, no matter how the papers were originally stacked. These MFPs provide an efficient way to save paper while producing flawless copies.
The AM7650i comes with a 10” touchscreen that enables you to preview your document before you print. It has a swift print speed of up to 50 pages per minute (ppm) and four standard 500-page trays for a total capacity of up to 2,100 pages.
The AM43A features a 4.3” touchscreen with a top print speed of 45 ppm with two 550-page trays, providing a total capacity of up to 1,100 pages.
Both machines are packed with practical functions, including options to scan to cloud folders, USB, email, etc., and smart copy. In addition, secure print and copy features allow users to print confidential documents without worry.
Brother International
The Brother Workhorse MFC-J5955DW color inkjet all-in-one is ideal for small- to medium-sized businesses requiring high performance and vibrant color output. It provides fast, reliable printing as well as borderless output up to 11×17” while delivering similar capabilities, security and operating costs as laser printers.
A low total cost of ownership is among the benefits of the Brother Workhorse MFC-EX670W. This color laser all-in-one offers advanced security features and scalable paper handling that’s ideal for mid- to large-sized workgroups and enterprises, and it’s Brother’s boldest, fastest, and most secure color laser all-in-one ever.
Small businesses, busy offices and small workgroups are the most optimal fit for the Brother Workhorse MFC-L8395CDW digital color all-in-one. It’s a compact unit that helps increase office productivity with fast print speeds and advanced scanning capabilities.
If your workgroup or enterprise is more mid- to large-sized, the Brother Workhorse MFC-EX915DW monochrome laser all-in-one offers business performance, advanced security features and high-quality output. It boasts a low total cost of ownership, fast speeds and a large standard paper capacity that’s scalable as business needs grow.
Finally, small- to medium-sized businesses requiring low-cost printing, security and versatile paper handling are prime environments for the Brother Workhorse MFC-L5715DW monochrome laser printer, which offers fast speeds, flexible connectivity and expandable paper capacity.
Canon U.S.A.
The imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX product family is Canon’s premier line of multifunction print devices. It spans A3 and A4 with monochrome and color models ranging in speeds from 25 ppm to 105 ppm. This line is designed to help simplify the end-user experience and management of technology, better control sensitive information and print-related costs, and help ensure that technology investments proactively evolve with changing needs. Each product features an intuitive 10.1” user interface that incorporates smartphone-like usability and a robust set of security features help protect user environments and sensitive information. Consistency across the line helps promote ease of use, and a strong set of tools is available to assist administrators with managing multiple devices. Organizations in a hybrid work environment can support home office employees with the imageCLASS X line of desktop single- or multifunction printers. This line complements the imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX products with consistent usability and management tools, and it implements many of the same security features.
Epson America
One of the key benefits of the Epson WorkForce Enterprise AM-C550 A4 Color MFP is simplicity— it has fewer maintenance parts to manage, reduced machine downtime for efficient productivity, less waste1 to end up in landfills and low energy consumption for greater savings. It delivers speeds up to 55 ISO ppm2 (black/color), has a fast first page out, and provides outstanding image quality and high-performance scanning. Powered by PrecisionCore technology, it’s energy-efficient and has the lowest power consumption in its class.3 It has flexible placement options and a compact footprint, plus it’s configurable as a desktop or floor-standing unit for virtually any work environment. It’s also compatible with industry-leading third-party solutions for seamless workflow integration.
1 Waste computed by weight of spent consumables and replacement parts over 450,000 pages versus comparable laser printers.
2 Black and color print speeds are measured in accordance with ISO/IEC 24734. Actual print times will vary based on factors including system configuration, software and page complexity.
3 Compared to similarly featured A4 color laser printers and copiers with speeds of 51–60 ppm per industry available data as of November 2023. Actual power savings will vary by product model and usage.
Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A.
Konica Minolta’s next generation of bizhub i-Series multifunctional devices feature functionality that places ease of use at the foreground. With an advanced firmware upgrade that delivers even greater protection against malicious activity, the devices directly tackle concerns around workplace security. The new Authentication Attack Detection and Password Attack Detection functions offer the ability to block unauthorized attempts at access. Additional features include increased paper capacity, additional user selections that allow customers to decide how to treat potential virus threats, plus prominent virus scan icon to communicate status and simplification of the login process for customers using Microsoft Azure.
Kyocera Document Solutions America
Kyocera Document Solutions America Inc. has been a major player in A3 technology for some time, a fact outlined by its recent triumphs at Keypoint Intelligence’s BLI Awards. Not only were 10 of Kyocera’s A3 devices honored with BLI Pick Awards for being “Best in Class,” according to experienced analysts, but the print solutions provider was also named the Most Color Consistent A3 Brand for 2024–26 and 2024 A3 Line of the Year.
These industry recognitions celebrate Kyocera’s A3 line for its security features, printing speeds, reliability and product design. An example of this is the black toner bottle, which is repurposed as a waste toner container to reduce plastic use once emptied.
Kyocera’s commitment to producing efficient and sustainable office equipment is evident across its A3 and A4 lines. These office devices are designed to consume less energy and are built with long-life parts, saving companies on costs for repairs and replacements.
The brand has been named Best A4 Manufacturer at the Frank Awards for six consecutive years. Building on this legacy, Kyocera recently released the TASKalfa MA4500ci and ECOSYS MA4000cifx color series, devices that facilitate secure hybrid workflows, software integration and increased efficiency.
Lexmark International
Lexmark introduced its 9-Series A3 color printers and MFPs (multifunction products) and 8-Series color A4 MFPs, which offer the following features:
- Broad media support: Users can create everything from office documents to marketing brochures, booklets and posters. The devices print vivid, colorful visualizations, charts and documents with professional color features (including PANTONE calibration) and a full range of media sizes to effectively communicate with coworkers, customers and partners.
- Custom configurations: They offer broad media size support, high-volume printing and universally interchangeable paper handling and finishing capabilities.
- New user interface: The machines include an easy-to-navigate and intuitive operator panel. A newly designed screen layout with streamlined workflow helps increase productivity.
- Easy maintenance and service: One-handed toner replacement, easy-to-reach serviceable areas and alerts that are simple to understand help simplify how users maintain the devices. Service time is also reduced to under 15 minutes.
- Sturdy construction: The devices are built to last seven-plus years with a 33%–200% increase in supplies and maintenance kit life. What’s more, the packaging also uses 35%–43% less plastic, resulting in less energy needed for production and distribution and ultimately less waste.
Ricoh USA
Ricoh’s current technology strategy emphasizes the integration of innovative technologies to enhance customer experiences, improve workflows and boost retention/adoption. As companies transition to smaller office spaces and adopt new workstyles, there’s a growing need for MFPs that offer robust functionality within a more compact footprint. In response, Ricoh is strengthening its product line to include new A4 models that address this shift.
Ricoh will introduce three new color models in the fall: two 32-ppm desktop MFPs and one single-function printer. These new models offer options for basic functionality or more advanced solutions compatibility. Designed with a compact and lightweight build, they’re also environmentally friendly, incorporating 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Despite their smaller size, the devices use the same advanced technology found in Ricoh’s A3 MFPs, ensuring seamless access to workflow software and a consistent user experience across all devices.
Additionally, Ricoh is dedicating part of its focus to technological innovation, including the use of AI for preventative or first-line service. This approach helps reduce costs and protect margins for dealers, reinforcing the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Ultimately, customers will experience seamless transitions between A3 and A4, ensuring they can easily adopt a self-service model from any location.
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America
Sharp recently added three new color devices to its A4 lineup, bringing its total to 18 MFPs and printers. The BP-C535WR, BP-C535WD and BP-C545WD compact devices include enhanced business and security features, offer print speeds of 35-45 ppm and provide an intuitive 7” capacitive touchscreen for easy navigation. They share many features of Sharp’s existing A3 workgroup MFPs, enabling seamless and secure collaboration across workers throughout the office. Additionally, the devices are compatible with accessories from Sharp’s monochrome A4 devices to streamline inventory management. Security features include firmware attack prevention, self-recovery and optional Bitdefender antivirus software, ensuring robust protection for business networks.
Sharp’s A3 workgroup document systems feature 24 models with print speeds ranging from 26–90 ppm with a paper capacity of up to 6,700 sheets. These monochrome and color models include enhanced cloud services such as Microsoft Teams and native Universal Print capability for seamless Microsoft 365 integration. Features include double-feed scan detection, auto skew correction, 280 images-per-minute scanning, touchless operation, a retractable keyboard, motion sensor and an inner finisher. With robust security, including optional Bitdefender antivirus, ENERGY STAR 3.0 qualification and low energy consumption, these models offer efficient, secure and eco-friendly office solutions.
Toshiba America Business Solutions
Toshiba’s 12 Office Collection 3 next-gen MFPs offer users the ability to function more productively and securely by utilizing the cloud.
The e-STUDIO6525AC Series (featuring seven models) and e STUDIO6528A Series (numbering five models) deliver high performance along with state-of-the-art information security. The e-STUDIO6525AC Series can produce full-color presentations at up to 65 ppm. While the e-STUDIO6528A similarly present everyday deliverables in crisp monochrome.
Featuring a 1,200-page standard capacity and an expansive maximum paper capacity of 5,200 pages with optional paper handling accessories, Toshiba’s systems can produce materials for virtually any task. A full-color, tilting 10.1” tablet-style user interface simplifies print management by enabling core functions and productivity-enhancing workflow solutions.
In addition, the implementation of Toshiba’s Elevate Sky services platform within the systems presents cloud-based print management solutions with zero infrastructure costs in four specific areas:
- Cloud-enabled systems: Seamlessly share documents between Toshiba MFPs and cloud providers.
- Cloud-ready applications: Print enablement to document workflow automation.
- Cloud-driven services: Elevate Sky services harness the cloud for elite service.
- Cloud-ready expertise: Toshiba offers consulting, project management, implementation, and technical support.
Xerox Corporation
The Xerox VersaLink series of A4 printers and MFPs are designed with a small footprint and offer easy usability with large touchscreens that can be personalized for each user, helping to speed up everyday tasks. They feature mobile and cloud-ready capabilities including Apple AirPrint and Mopria Print Service that make printing and scanning from mobile devices easy while making it simpler to connect to common cloud storage services such as Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive. They devices come with an array of features to automate everyday tasks, have comprehensive security built in, and are ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified.
The Xerox AltaLink A3 series of MFPs are designed for more demanding offices in SMBs and enterprises. They offer an intuitive experience based on a tablet-like interface that can be personalized for each user. The devices also offer adaptable technology that can evolve and expand as needs change, with apps from the Xerox App Gallery that simplify or automate tasks such as translation and document conversion. The AltaLink A3 series also includes comprehensive security backed by Trellix technology to prevent intrusions and keep data and documents secure, and they support a variety of paper tray configurations and finishing capabilities. Like the VersaLink series, these models are ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified.
