45 Ppm or 30 Ppm Laser Printers? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between a 45 ppm vs 30 ppm laser printer depends on your volume needs. Both the Ricoh and Canon models are multifunction devices that handle print, copy, and scan tasks with auto duplexing. They share key office utilities but differ significantly in speed and output type. The Ricoh offers faster color processing for large teams, while the Canon provides a compact monochrome solution for smaller offices. Review the specs below to see which fits your workflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | 45 ppm | 30 ppm |
| Print Output | Color | Monochrome |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Network | Wireless |
| Supported Functions | Copy, Fax, Print, Scan | Print, Copy, Scan |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier if
- You need high-speed color printing for large documents
- You require built-in fax capabilities alongside scanning
- You want a network-ready device for busy office environments
Choose Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser if
- You primarily print black-and-white text documents
- You prefer a smaller footprint for limited desk space
- You need a straightforward wireless setup for basic tasks
Verdict: The Ricoh is the better choice for teams needing fast color output and fax features. The Canon suits small offices focused on efficient black-and-white document handling. Select based on your color needs and required speed.
45 Ppm vs 30 Ppm Laser Specs
Scan Speed
The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 lists a scan speed of 45 ppm. This high rate supports heavy document workflows. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw offers a scan speed of 30 ppm. This lower speed suits moderate daily tasks. You get faster scanning with the Ricoh model. The Canon model provides adequate speed for standard office needs. The difference matters if you scan large volumes regularly. Choose the Ricoh for speed. Choose the Canon for standard use.
Print Output
The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 produces color prints. This feature allows for vibrant graphics and color documents. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a monochrome device. It only prints in black and white. Color printing is essential for marketing materials or photos. Monochrome printing is sufficient for text-heavy reports. You must decide if color is necessary for your work. The Ricoh handles color tasks. The Canon focuses on text efficiency.
Connectivity
Both printers offer wireless connectivity for modern offices. The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 includes built-in WiFi and network support. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw provides wireless connectivity as well. Both models allow you to print from mobile devices or computers without cables. This shared feature simplifies setup in busy environments. You get the same wireless convenience from both devices. Network integration works well for either choice. Connectivity is a tie for your workflow.
Printer Type
The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 is an A3 color laser multifunction copier. It handles larger paper sizes for professional documents. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a monochrome multifunction laser printer. It focuses on standard letter-sized documents. The Ricoh model is better for large format needs. The Canon model is ideal for standard office paperwork. You should choose based on your paper size requirements. The Ricoh supports A3 formats. The Canon is limited to standard sizes.
Supported Functions
Both devices are multifunction units with core capabilities. The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 supports copy, fax, print, and scan tasks. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw supports print, copy, and scan functions. The Ricoh model includes fax capability for traditional communication needs. The Canon model omits fax support in its listed functions. If you need to send faxes, the Ricoh is the only option. Otherwise, both handle print, copy, and scan equally well.
Which 45 Ppm Or 30 Ppm Laser Printer Suits You
High-volume A3 office requiring color and fax
You need fast output for large teams. This Ricoh model prints at 45 ppm in color on A3 paper. It includes fax and copy functions alongside print and scan. The built-in Wi-Fi and 10.1-inch smart panel simplify network setup and daily operation for busy environments.
Small business focused on monochrome document speed
You prioritize quick text output over color. This Canon printer delivers 30 ppm for black and white documents. It starts printing in about 5.3 seconds. The compact design fits smaller desks while handling print, copy, and scan tasks efficiently for moderate daily workloads.
User wanting wireless convenience and auto duplex
You want reliable wireless connectivity without complex setup. This Canon model supports wireless printing and auto two-sided printing. It saves paper by handling duplexing automatically. The included scanner and copier functions provide all essential office tools in a single monochrome device.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier | High-volume color A3 offices | Check price of Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier on Amazon |
| 2 | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser | Monochrome document workflows | Check price of Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser on Amazon |
The products compared
Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier
Best for: High-volume color A3 offices
- Scan Speed
- 45 ppm (what this guide is about)
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Multifunction
- Supported Functions
- Copy, Fax, Print, Scan
- Print Speed
- 45 ppm
View on Amazon: Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier Affiliate link
The Ricoh Aficio MP C4504 is a color laser multifunction copier built for high-volume environments. It prints and scans at 45 ppm, matching the top speed of this guide. You get auto duplex printing and a 10.1-inch smart operation panel. Built-in WiFi and network connectivity allow flexible placement. It supports A3 media, making it suitable for large-format documents.
Pros
- 45 ppm print and scan speed
- Color laser printing technology
- 10.1-inch smart operation panel
- Auto duplex printing and scanning
- Built-in WiFi and network support
Cons
- Limited to A3 paper size
- No mention of mobile app control
- No mention of USB direct printing
Good fit if
- You need fast 45 ppm output for color documents
- You require A3 paper handling capabilities
- You want a multifunction device with a large touchscreen
Skip if
- You only need letter-sized paper
- You prefer a monochrome-only printer
- You need a compact desktop unit
Verdict: Ricoh A3 Color Laser MFP suits offices needing high-speed color output and A3 support. It fits teams prioritizing volume and large-format handling over compact footprint.
Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser
Best for: Monochrome document workflows
- Scan Speed
- 30 ppm (what this guide is about)
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Multifunction (all-in-one)
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Print Speed
- Up to 30 pages per minute
View on Amazon: Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser Affiliate link
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is a monochrome wireless laser multifunction printer. It prints at 30 pages per minute with a first page out time of 5.3 seconds. You get print, copy, and scan functions, including auto two-sided printing. This model suits offices needing reliable document handling without color. It uses Toner 071 for standard output.
Pros
- Prints up to 30 pages per minute
- First page out in 5.3 seconds
- Auto two-sided printing
- Wireless connectivity
Cons
- Monochrome output only
- No color scanning capability
- Smaller capacity than 45 ppm models
Good fit if
- You need fast black and white document printing
- You want wireless setup without cables
- You require automatic duplex printing
Skip if
- You need color printing
- You require high-volume 45 ppm speed
- You prefer wired connections only
Verdict: Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Monochrome Laser is a practical choice for teams focused on monochrome documents. It fits users who prioritize speed and wireless convenience over color capabilities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier | Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Color | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | Multifunction | Multifunction (all-in-one) |
| Supported Functions | Copy, Fax, Print, Scan | Print, copy, scan |
| Print Speed | 45 ppm | Up to 30 pages per minute |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Network | Wireless |
| Duplex Printing | Auto Duplex | Auto 2-sided printing |
| First Page Out | not stated | Approximately 5.3 seconds |
| Ink/Toner System | not stated | Toner 071 / 071 High-Capacity Toner |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier |
| Ideal For | not stated | Documents |
| Scanning | not stated | Auto Document Feeder |
| Compatibility | A3 | not stated |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | not stated |
| Auto Document Feeder | not stated | ADF |
| Scan Speed | 45 ppm | 30 ppm |
| Dimensions | not stated | 14.6 × 15.4 × 14.4 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 24.7 pounds |
| Color | White | Black |
| Model | C4504 | 5621C011 |
| Size | not stated | One Size |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 45 ppm laser printer faster than a 30 ppm model?
Yes, a 45 ppm device processes documents significantly faster. The Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier delivers a scan speed of 45 ppm. This supports heavy workflows in large offices. In contrast, the Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser offers a scan speed of 30 ppm. This lower rate suits moderate daily tasks. Choose the higher speed for volume.
Does a 45 ppm laser printer support A3 paper sizes?
Yes, high-speed models often handle larger formats. The Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier is compatible with A3 paper. It is designed for high-volume color A3 offices. This makes it ideal for teams needing large-format handling. The Canon model focuses on monochrome documents and does not list A3 support. Verify size compatibility for your needs.
Can I use a 45 ppm laser printer for color output?
Yes, many fast models include color capabilities. The Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier provides color print output. It suits offices prioritizing volume and color quality. The Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser is a monochrome device. It focuses on black and white document workflows. Select a color model if you need vibrant prints.
What multifunction features do 45 ppm and 30 ppm printers share?
Both models offer essential office utilities. The Ricoh unit supports scan, copy, fax, and duplex printing. It also features duplex scanning for efficient two-sided document handling. The Canon model includes an automatic document feeder, scanner, and copier. It supports wireless connectivity for easy setup. Both devices streamline common office tasks effectively.
Which laser printer is better for high-volume color offices?
The Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier is the better choice. It supports A3 paper and delivers 45 ppm scan speeds. It handles color output and fax functions. This model suits teams prioritizing volume and large-format handling. The Canon model is monochrome and slower. It is less suitable for high-volume color requirements. Choose Ricoh for heavy color jobs.
Does the 30 ppm Canon printer include wireless connectivity?
Yes, the Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser includes wireless features. It offers wireless connectivity for easy network integration. This allows users to print from various devices. The Canon model is designed for monochrome document workflows. It prioritizes speed and convenience over color capabilities. Wireless support makes it practical for modern office environments.
How do duplex printing capabilities compare between these models?
Both printers support automatic two-sided printing. The Ricoh A3 Color Laser Multifunction Copier features duplex printing. It also includes duplex scanning for efficient handling. The Canon imageCLASS Multifunction Laser supports automatic document feeding. While it handles documents well, the Ricoh model offers more comprehensive duplexing options for large jobs.

