MFP: This common acronym stands for Multi-Function Printer. Besides printing, these machines can scan and copy. More expensive models can also fax, and some MFPs even have built-in telephones. These jacks-of-all-trades come in handy in offices where space is at a premium and you want to get everything done in one place. All-in-One is a synonym for MFP. Examples: Canon imageCLASS MF6540 Laser MFP, Canon PIXMA MX850 Inkjet MFP

 

W, d, or n: You often find any one or combination of these three letters at the end of a printer’s name, usually right after the model number in either uppercase or lowercase (e.g. Okidata C5650dn Color Laser Printer or Brother HL-2170W Laser Printer). W generally stands for wireless network connectivity (i.e. Wi-Fi), which means you can connect your printer to a network without having to plug in an Ethernet cable. d stands for auto-duplex, a feature that helps you save paper by printing on both sides of a sheet. This is generally more convenient than manual duplex, where you have to print on one side, then flip the page over and load it back into the paper tray to print on the other side. Last but not least, n stands for network connectivity, which usually refers to connecting to a network with an Ethernet cable. When you see any combination of these letters at the end of the printer name, expect the associated features to come standard.

 

OEM: This stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. OEMs (aka the Evil Empire to disgruntled consumers) are companies like Canon, Dell, Epson, HP, Lexmark and others who make printers as well as the ink and toner that go into those printers. The high prices for OEM cartridges have opened the door for lower-priced compatible ink and toner cartridges (see below), leading to debates over whether OEM cartridges are really that much better than compatibles and even litigation from consumers angry over allegedly anti-competitive practices by OEMs.

 

Compatible Cartridge: This is basically an ink or toner cartridge made by someone other than an OEM that typically costs a lot less than an OEM cartridge. OEMs say that their own cartridges make higher quality prints and work better with their printers than compatibles. On the other hand, third party manufacturers will tell you that compatibles offer similar quality at significant savings. As we mentioned in our article on OEM versus Compatible ink and toner cartridges, the final verdict often depends on the paper you use, the environment in which you put your printout, and your own personal preferences.

 

Remanufactured and Refurbished Cartridges: These are special kinds of compatible cartridges often made by third parties out of OEM or non-OEM ink and toner cartridges. Remanufactured and refurbished cartridges start out as used empty cartridges that are refilled with ink and refitted with new parts to make a new recycled cartridge (think RoboCop). I think a lot of people use these two terms interchangeably, so all you really need to know is that they’re enhanced and eco-friendly cartridges usually sold by third parties at a lower price than OEM cartridges.