Optical resolution is given as a dpi figure, and the higher the number, the finer the detail that the scanner can capture. Those who plan to use the scanner for more than just photocopying and faxing should check that it has a high native optical resolution. These allow you to photocopy or fax multi-page documents without having to manually place each sheet in the scanner, saving you time and effort. If you're likely to make extensive use of the photocopying and faxing features, it may be worth paying extra for a model that includes an automatic document feeder. Because they combine so many functions into a single unit, they can be real space savers, which is often important in small home offices. Many of these models also include fax capability, so you can connect the printer to your telephone line to send scans of documents as faxes. The scanner means they can be used as a photocopier too, allowing you to run off multiple copies of a document just as you would on a normal photocopier. These printers, also known as all-in-ones, add a scanner to the top of the printer. If you're buying a printer to use in a home office, it's seriously worth considering a multi-function model.

2018 best laser color printer scanner