Choosing the right multifunction printer (MFP) for your office can be a tough call. Two popular options are the Xerox VersaLink C7125 and the Canon imageRUNNER C3326i. Both offer high-quality color printing, copying, scanning, and faxing, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one reigns supreme for your workplace.

Xerox VersaLink C7125

As the original inventors of dry toner copying and printing, Xerox stand proud on their solid reputation. Xerox are known for reliability, security and value for money. On top of that their network of Service Partners and Concessionaires are fully vetted and supported by Xerox.

The VersaLink Series of Multi-Function Printers are Xerox’s entry level A3 range and have almost all the features and functionality you get with Xerox’s AltaLink range. You get excellent print quality at 1200 x 2400 dpi resolution, the most robust set of security features from any manufacturer, with cutting-edge features like data encryption, user authentication, and secure printing protocols.

There are a variety of models in the VersaLink C7100 Series of MFP’s; the C7120 C7125 C7130, the only difference being the print speed, which is denoted by the last two digits. Prices start at under £1,500 for the defeatured C7120DN.

Buy a VersaLink C7100 Series Colour Multi-Function Printer here

Pros:

• Volume Capability: The Xerox C7125 is able to handle up to 6,250 pages per month, more than three times the recommended workload of the Canon
• Hard Drive: The Xerox C7125 comes with a 320GB Hard Drive as standard, it is fully encrypted and meets the FIPS 140-2 standard
• Security Focus: Xerox boasts robust security features like data encryption and user authentication, making it ideal for offices handling sensitive information.
• Mobile Printing: The VersaLink C7125 excels in mobile printing with Xerox’s intuitive app and support for various cloud platforms.
• High Print Quality: This MFP delivers sharp prints with vibrant colors, perfect for presentations and marketing materials.

Cons:

• Cost per Print: Toner cartridges for the VersaLink C7125 can be expensive if you buy from the wrong supplier, leading to a higher cost per print compared to some competitors. Scriptum guarantee to offer the lowest prices for cartridges and we also have an even lower cost Managed Print Service, with no commitment to a long term contract.
• Bulkier Design: The VersaLink C7125 has a slightly larger footprint than the Canon imageRUNNER C3326i, so space-conscious offices might find it a squeeze.

For an in-depth review of the VersaLink C7100 series please see our other blogs or go straight to our blog on the Advantages and price of the Xerox VersaLink C7125 Multi-Function

Canon imageRUNNER C3326i

Canon’s range of A3 MFP range can be very confusing, with what appears to be quite an overlap of models. We’ll be covering this in another blog post in the future.

The imageRUNNER C3326i is Canon’s attempt to capture the growing market of low end A3 printer users who want the functionality of a proper A3 machine, but don’t want to invest the type of money typically required. Canon’s range can be very confusing with an overlap of models. According to Canon, the imageRUNNER C3326i isn’t part of their “!Advanced” series, so has only basic capabilities when it comes to Productivity, Control and Integration. It also has a very low monthly volume capability.

Canon have still done a great job of including the most basic features, making this a great choice for users with print volumes of up to 2,000 pages per month maximum. It’s probably more of a competitor to the Xerox VersaLink C7120DN, which is a defeatured model with no Hard Drive and no inner tray. Although the C7120 is slightly slower at 20 pages per minute, Xerox still rates it as good for printing up to 5,500 pages per month.

Pros:

• Lower Cartridge cost: Canon cartridges may be cheaper than those for the Xerox. However, at first glance it would seem like the Canon has lower running costs, but that would be to ignore the fact that the colour cartridges on the Canon are 40% smaller (18,500 on the Xerox Vs 11,000 for the Canon) and the black cartridges are 44% smaller. You may well find the the running cost per print on the Canon C3326i is actually more expensive than the Xerox VersaLink C7125.
• Compact Design: The Canon C3326i MFP is slightly narrower that the Xerox, ideal for smaller offices or those with limited workspace.
• User-Friendly Interface: The Canon C3326i interface is user-friendly, making it easy for employees to navigate printing, scanning, and copying tasks.

Cons:

• No Hard Drive: Not including a Hard Drive is just one example of where Canon have been able to cut costs on the C3326i
• Volume Capability: The C3326i is a light duty machine, office users needing to print more than 2,000 pages per month will find the Canon isn’t cut out for their workload
• Security Features: While Canon offers some security features, they are not as comprehensive as Xerox’s on the VersaLink C7125.
• Mobile Printing: Mobile printing options might be slightly less streamlined compared to Xerox’s offerings.

Price: The best price we could find for the Canon imageRUNNER C3326i was £2,488.25 +VAT. The best price for the equivalent Xerox C7125 is £2,032.86 +VAT, making the Canon 22% more expensive.

You can buy the XeroxC7125  here.

The Verdict

Both the Xerox VersaLink C7125 and Canon imageRUNNER C3326i are excellent MFPs, but the best choice depends on your specific needs.

• Choose the VersaLink C7125: If security and productivity are your top priorities, you require exceptional mobile printing capabilities, and high-quality output is crucial.
• Choose the imageRUNNER C3326i: If you’re not on a budget, don’t need to print more than 2,000 per month, have limited space, and only require basic functionality when it comes to Productivity, Control and Integration.

Remember: This is just a starting point, you might want to consider your additional requirements such as Postscript, which is essential for Mac and design users. Also consider what service and warranty options are available before making your final decision. Please contact Scriptum for a detailed proposal or visit our shop to get a more complete picture of pricing.