According to First Research, the United States alone is home to over 25,000 printer companies. While the market is diverse with companies of all sizes, a select few brands stand out as global leaders.
Choosing the right printer brand can feel overwhelming. Many printers may seem similar at first glance, differing only in name and logo. While basic functionality might overlap, significant variations exist in features, accessories, and service offerings between brands.
With nearly four decades of experience as a managed print vendor, we at amazingprint.net understand the printer industry’s nuances. This experience allows us to provide valuable insights into what differentiates various printer companies.
We proudly offer products from Xerox, a globally recognized leader in printer manufacturing, and will feature them in this discussion. However, we acknowledge that other brands offer equally compelling product portfolios. It’s essential to present a balanced view.
In this guide, we will explore the unique strengths and specializations of leading Computer Printer Brands. We’ll provide brand overviews and practical advice for navigating the printer market, helping you start your research and identify the optimal printer solution for your needs.
Additionally, we will consider alternative purchasing avenues beyond direct manufacturer acquisitions.
Looking for a new printer or copier for your business? Download our free Complete Guide to Purchasing or Leasing a Printer for Your Business and gain essential knowledge before you invest.
Key Factors in Evaluating Computer Printer Brands
Before we delve into our list of top brands, it’s important to understand the criteria we used to evaluate and rank them. Our selection process focused on four core factors:
1. Brand Reputation and Industry Standing
A place on any reputable “Best Of” list requires a brand to possess significant credibility and influence within its industry. For computer printer brands, this means demonstrating a strong track record of customer satisfaction, product innovation, and overall industry leadership.
Brand reputation was paramount in our evaluation. We prioritized companies recognized globally for their stature, positive customer feedback, and commitment to quality and innovation.
2. Product Performance and Unique Features
Naturally, any assessment of top printer manufacturers must consider the quality and efficacy of their products. Beyond basic functionality, we examined the unique features and technological advantages offered by each brand.
Product effectiveness and distinctive features were crucial in our process. They enabled us to differentiate between manufacturers and identify the five leading brands.
3. Data-Driven Insights
While less dominant than brand reputation and product quality, we incorporated empirical data to validate our initial assessments. Statistical indicators from reputable sources helped confirm our findings and provide objective support for our selections.
Our primary data source was Statista, a respected market and consumer data firm recognized for its unbiased reporting by Media Bias/Fact Check. We also referenced data from the International Data Corporation (IDC), a global leader in technology market intelligence.
4. Financial Performance and Revenue
Finally, we considered revenue and overall financial performance as indicators of market success and brand strength. While not the primary factor, financial data provides context and reinforces the market position of leading brands.
Company revenue is a significant metric for measuring success. However, for this ranking, it was a secondary consideration. Our focus remained on consumer-centric factors rather than solely on company financials.
The Top 5 Computer Printer Brands in the Market
Based on the factors outlined above, here are five of the leading computer printer brands in the industry today. This list is presented in no particular order:
1. HP (Hewlett-Packard)
Hewlett-Packard (HP), established in 1939 by Bill Hewlett and David Packard in Palo Alto, California, is a pioneering technology company.
HP is renowned for its laser printing technology, particularly in computers and printers. The introduction of the HP LaserJet in 1984 revolutionized desktop publishing.
HP offers a comprehensive range of printing solutions for both business and home users. Their HP+ Smart Printing System transforms compatible HP printers into intelligent devices, enhancing functionality and connectivity.
Beyond hardware, HP provides Managed Print Services designed for modern hybrid work environments, emphasizing “security, flexibility, and manageability,” as stated on their website.
In 2024, HP held the largest share of global printer shipments. Their printing division generated $17 billion in revenue last year, according to Statista, solidifying their position as a top-tier printer manufacturer.
For a deeper comparison, explore our blog post comparing HP and Xerox to understand the competitive landscape between these two industry giants.
2. Canon
Canon, with roots dating back to 1933 in Japan, has become a global imaging and printing powerhouse. They established a significant presence in the U.S. with their New York branch in 1955.
While Canon’s expertise spans various technologies, they are particularly recognized for their cameras and printers. Their printing portfolio includes solutions for office, home, large format, and production environments. Canon also offers professional and cloud-based print management services.
Canon stands out for its diverse production printing options, including specialized printers for ID cards, labels, badges, and cable markers, catering to niche business needs.
Canon’s strong brand reputation and its position as the third-largest global printer shipper in 2024 firmly place it among the top computer printer brands.
Explore our detailed comparison in our blog post, Xerox versus Canon products, to see a feature-by-feature analysis.
3. Xerox
Xerox, founded in Rochester, New York, in 1906, is synonymous with the invention of xerography and the first plain-paper copiers.
Unlike HP and Canon, which have diversified product portfolios, Xerox primarily focuses on printing and copying solutions. They offer a wide range of devices, including single-function and multifunction printers for production, office, and remote work settings.
Xerox printers are distinguished by their ConnectKey technology platform and the App Gallery. Their ecosystem includes services like DocuShare Enterprise Content Management and CareAR’s Augmented Reality Support, enhancing printer functionality and user experience.
Xerox operates in over 160 countries and holds over 8,500 patents, demonstrating a commitment to innovation. Their planned acquisition of Lexmark in 2025 will strengthen their position in the A4 color market and expand their Digital Services and IT Solutions offerings.
Xerox’s consistent leadership in the printer industry, coupled with its unique technology and service offerings, makes it a clear choice for inclusion among the top brands.
4. Brother
Brother International Corporation was established in Japan in 1908 and has its U.S. headquarters in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey.
Brother Printers strategically focuses on office solutions, providing printers, scanners, and label makers designed for workgroups ranging from 1 to 20 users. They are known for their reliability and user-friendly design in office environments.
Beyond office equipment, Brother is also recognized for its sewing, embroidery, and quilting machines. Their industrial machinery serves diverse sectors, including clothing, automotive, travel, and healthcare.
Brother ranked fourth in global printer shipments in the third quarter of 2024 and maintains a distribution network spanning over 100 countries, showcasing its global reach and market penetration.
Brother’s recent global expansion and reputation for producing quality, office-focused products earn them a place on our list of best printer manufacturers.
For a detailed comparison, read our blog post comparing Xerox and Brother to understand their respective strengths and differences.
5. Epson
Epson, a Japanese company founded in 1942, is known for its innovation in printing technology. In 1968, Epson introduced the EP-101, the world’s first miniprinter, marking a significant advancement in printer miniaturization.
Epson offers a broad spectrum of printer and scanner options for both personal and professional use. This includes their popular Supertank Printers, high-quality Photo Printers, robust Impact Printers, and standard single-function and multifunction devices.
Epson also provides robotic office automation solutions and a comprehensive range of paper products, including photo paper, presentation paper, professional media, and specialty papers.
According to IDC data, Epson shipped over 4 million printers worldwide in the third quarter of 2024. Their extensive global presence and commitment to innovation have established them as a leading multinational printer manufacturer.
Epson’s consistent global performance and reputation for technological innovation secure their position as the final brand on our list of top computer printer brands.
As with the other brands, we have developed a comparison between Epson and Xerox to highlight the key distinctions and similarities between these two major brands.
Choosing the Right Printer Brand for Your Needs
After reviewing our list of the top five computer printer brands, you might be wondering, “Which brand is right for me?”
The optimal choice depends on your specific requirements and priorities. The brand overviews provided here are a starting point, but deeper consideration is necessary to align your needs with the best brand and product.
All leading manufacturers offer quality printers, particularly for standard single-function and multifunction devices. These companies have achieved their market leadership by consistently delivering reliable and effective products.
To guide your decision-making process, consider these four key questions when evaluating printer brands:
1. What specific features are essential for my ideal printer? (Consider print speed, resolution, media handling, and connectivity options).
2. What unique services does the brand offer, and are they relevant to my needs? (Explore managed print services, cloud integration, and specialized support).
3. Does the brand have a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction? (Research customer reviews, industry ratings, and warranty terms).
4. What are the brand’s security protocols and environmental sustainability initiatives? (Evaluate security features, energy efficiency, and recycling programs).
These questions are a starting point for a comprehensive evaluation. Further considerations include:
Are you seeking a laser or inkjet printer? Will the printer be for home, small office, or enterprise use? Do you require an all-in-one printer or a single-function device? Is color printing a necessity? Are you primarily focused on budget-friendly options?
Factors like printer cost, print volume capacity, and physical size are also crucial in determining the best printer for your situation. Answering these questions will lay the groundwork for a thorough evaluation process.
For more detailed guidance, read our blog post, “Top 6 Things to Consider When Buying a Printer.”
Explore our additional printer buying guides for further insights:
Alternatives to Purchasing Directly from Printer Brands
Direct purchases from manufacturers are not always the optimal solution for every business. Partnering with a local vendor who resells products from leading manufacturers can offer distinct advantages.
Benefits of choosing a local vendor include:
- Personalized Relationships: Direct access to local support and account management.
- Consistent Local Management: Streamlined communication and responsive service.
- Dedicated Point of Contact: Easier issue resolution and relationship building.
Generally, direct manufacturer purchases are most suitable for large, multi-location national corporations. This model provides a single point of contact for managing printer fleets across numerous sites.
However, for locally-operated businesses seeking a more personalized and dependable approach, partnering with a local print vendor that carries manufacturer brands is often a superior choice.
To understand the detailed distinctions between direct purchases and local vendor partnerships, read our blog post on printer brand vs. local vendor options.
Need Expert Guidance in Choosing a Printer Brand?
Comparing printer brands is not a simple task. Numerous factors are involved, and our discussion has only touched upon a few of the major manufacturers. Brands like Ricoh, Toshiba, and Konica Minolta, among others, also offer compelling solutions.
If you are considering a direct manufacturer purchase and seek guidance on the top industry leaders, this guide provides a valuable starting point.
However, a truly informed decision requires a deeper understanding of your unique needs and operational context. Key factors to consider include:
- Budgetary constraints
- Anticipated monthly print volume
- Essential printer features
These specific requirements should always take precedence over brand reputation when selecting the best printer brand for your organization.
As an experienced local print vendor, we are committed to providing expert-driven insights to empower you to make fully informed decisions about your printing solutions.
Unsure which brand aligns best with your needs? Reach Out to Us for personalized assistance!
Find the Right Printer – Tailored to Your Needs
Searching for the ideal printer for your business? We offer resources and expert support to guide you through the selection process.
Want to explore printer options independently? Utilize our Product Configurator to filter printers by price, speed, and features, enabling you to identify the best matches for your specific requirements.
Need expert guidance? Contact us for personalized recommendations from our experienced team. Share your needs, and we’ll help you find the perfect printer solution for your business.
Not ready to make a decision? Download The Complete Guide to Leasing or Purchasing a Printer for Your Business to gain comprehensive knowledge and make an informed choice at your own pace.
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