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Finding the right printer for your Mac computer can be overwhelming, given the vast amount of models available.
Even after you’ve narrowed down your options or consulted experts, you still need to compare the models to figure out which one fits your needs best.
At STPT, our team of print experts is here to guide you in making informed printer choices. As Xerox Diamond Authorized Solution Partners, we have extensive knowledge in comparing the specifications and features of various printers.
If you’ve read our blog post on the "5 Best Office Printers for Macs," you might already recognize some of the models we’ll be discussing today.
In this article, we will closely examine two top printers for Mac computers, comparing them based on compatibility with MacBook printing, upfront costs, ongoing expenses, serviceability, and additional features.
Looking to purchase a printer for your business? Discover everything you need to consider in our free guide on buying or leasing a printer.
5 Best Office Printers for Macs
In a previous blog, we shared our top printer recommendations for Mac OS users. However, you don’t need to be familiar with that post to benefit from this article. Below, you’ll find our five recommended printer models for MacBook printing, listed in no particular order:
- HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw
- Brother MFC-L3720CDW
- Xerox VersaLink C415
- Xerox C310
- Canon MegaTank MAXIFY GX5020
We picked these printers to meet the needs of small and medium-sized offices, home offices, and workgroups. Read our blog on How to Choose a Printer for Your Budget and Business Needs for more information.
While there are many printers available, these five models stand out as excellent choices for MacBook users, offering a good range of options currently on the market
Each of our recommended printers delivers quality performance and compatibility with MacBooks, but they also have unique features worth comparing before making a decision.
How to Choose a Printer Model for MacBook Printing
Still unsure how to choose the right printer for your Mac? Picking the perfect printer for you or your business means understanding what you need and what the printer can do.
First, know what features to consider when selecting a printer for your MacBook. To help you out, we looked at several important factors, including:
- Mac OS compatibility
- Compatibility with Mac AirPrint by Apple
- Printer price (initial)
- Printer cost (overtime)
- Available service and IT options
- Printer size and overall moveability
- Environmental sustainability
When choosing the best printer for your Mac, look for one that works with Mac OS, supports Apple AirPrint, and meets your office needs.
Next, we’ll compare two printer options from our list. This will help you see how to weigh the pros, cons, and costs of buying a printer that fits your computer setup.
Xerox VersaLink C415 vs. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw for MacBook Printing: Similarities
We decided to compare two of the top printers from our list: the Xerox VersaLink C415 and the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw.
Xerox VersaLink C415
Basic Specifications
- Print Speed: Up to 42 pages per minute (ppm)
- Monthly Duty Cycle: Up to 125,000 pages
- Recommended Monthly Print Volume: Up to 10,000 pages
- Base Model Dimensions: 18.9” x 18.7” x 19.3”
- Base Model Weight: 59.5 pounds
- Cost: Starting at around $1,199
Check out our Xerox VersaLink C415 review for a more detailed look at this model.
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw
Basic Specifications
- Print Speed: Up to 35 pages per minute (ppm)
- Monthly Duty Cycle: 50,000 pages
- Recommended Monthly Print Volume: Up to 4,000 pages
- Base Model Dimensions: 16.6” x 17.1” x 15.1”
- Base Model Weight: 45 pounds
- Cost: Around Starting at around $489
First, let’s highlight some similarities between these two printers:
Both offer impressive print speeds, making them ideal for small to medium-sized teams.
They are multifunctional or all-in-one, which means you can print, copy, scan, and fax with ease.
The VersaLink C415 and the LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw both support color printing. Plus, they include key features we want when looking for printers that work well with Mac computers, like compatibility with multiple Mac OS versions and the ability to connect with Apple AirPrint from your MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones.
4 Differences Between the Models
However, when comparing the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw and the Xerox VersaLink C415, there are a few key differences that stand out:
1. Price Difference Between Printer Models
The HP printer is cheaper upfront than the Xerox model. However, when it comes to printer expenses, there’s more to consider with the total cost of ownership (TCO).
TCO isn’t just about what you pay today. It includes everything: the price you pay upfront, usage fees (like cost per print), maintenance fees, and ongoing expenses for supplies, services, energy, and security.
Surprisingly, the Xerox printer has a lower cost per page.
So, what does this mean for you? It depends on your needs. If you print a lot (high print volume), the Xerox VersaLink C415 is a solid choice. But if you’re in a small office with light printing needs, you might save more money at the start with the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw.
What other expenses should you expect when buying a printer? Discover the factors that influence the cost of a printer here.
2. Variations in Speed of Printing
Print speed is how quickly a printer can produce a page or document. The Xerox VersaLink C415 is faster than the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw in both color and black-and-white printing.
Although both printers are fast, the Xerox model can print up to 42 pages per minute, while the HP printer can manage only 35 pages per minute. This makes the Xerox VersaLink C415 a better choice for offices that need speedy printing.
Additionally, the Xerox printer handles a higher monthly print volume—10,000 pages compared to the HP's 4,000. This means medium-sized workgroups or offices may find the Xerox VersaLink C415 to be a more suitable option.
3. Printer Size and Moveability
In terms of size, the Xerox VersaLink C415 is larger than the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw in both dimensions and weight. At 18.9” x 18.7” x 19.3” and 59.5 pounds, the Xerox model is heavier and bulkier than the HP printer (16.6” x 17.1” x 15.1” and 45 pounds).
This means that offices that are short on space or do not have the capacity to move a heavier machine may consider the HP model a good option. However, offices with a bit more space and a larger print volume may prefer the VersaLink C415.
Read our blog on printer size vs. space requirements to learn more about how your available office space can affect printer performance.
4. Extra Support and Features
When bought through a print vendor, the Xerox VersaLink C415 qualifies for office service agreements that offer on-site service and auto toner shipments for users.
On the other hand, if you're looking at a smaller printer like the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw, you might end up buying it from a big-box store like Amazon or Walmart. However, these retail stores don’t usually offer routine maintenance agreements with IT support or auto supply shipments.
If your office is tech-savvy and you're okay handling installation and upkeep, the HP model could save you some money. But if you’d rather have experts set it up and take care of maintenance, the Xerox VersaLink is the way to go.
A Summary
Here are some more helpful tips for deciding which printer (for Mac) best fits your unique needs:
- If you’re looking for a printer that works well in a small office or for workgroups while producing great images, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw is a solid choice.
- For those needing a printer for small to medium-sized offices or workgroups that also offers service agreements for printer maintenance and IT support, the Xerox VersaLink C415 Printer is worth considering.
Before you buy a printer, it’s smart to check out user reviews. They can provide helpful insights into how well the printer performs in real-world situations and whether it's worth your money.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison table highlighting their main differences for you to easily see and understand.
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Choosing the MacBook Printer That is Right for You
With nearly 40 in the business, STPT is a print vendor that is always ready to help consumers like you find the products and services you need. Your printer should not be a point of stress in your life.
The Xerox VersaLink C415 and the HP LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw are good picks, but don’t forget—there are thousands of other great printers out there!
If you’re not completely sold on either of the machines discussed in this article, or if you have any questions or concerns about the printer buying process, reach out to us.
One of our trained experts will gladly provide more information.
If you’re interested in any of these printer models or want to check out our full catalog, try our product configurator. It helps you find the perfect printer for your needs. Just pick the features you want and compare your top choices, making your search simple and quick.
