Confused by the terms A3 and A4 when it comes to printers and copiers?
A3 and A4 are terms that indicate the paper size of documents for a specific device. Here in North America, we often refer these terms as “Letter”, “Legal” and “Ledger” sizing of paper and devices that are capable of such sizes. But when you begin searching for your next office equipment investment, one question you will likely get asked is what size paper do you print on.
Want to understand more on what you need for your next piece of equipment – Read our Ultimate Buyers Guide for Office Printers
Whether you answer A3 or A4 OR Letter, Legal or Ledger OR 8 ½” x 11” or 8 ½” x 14”or 11” x 17” it is important to note that not all machines can print all three variations.
A3 products such as printers and MFPs will have the ability to handle sizes up to 11″ X 17″ which is commonly known in our market as Ledger Paper. Of course the A3 products are also able to handle both letter and legal size paper as well.
A4 products such as printers and MFPs will have the ability to handle letter and legal sized paper ONLY (8.5″ X 11″ and 8.5″ X 14″)
So which one is right for me?
The only real question to ask yourself is:
Do I NEED to print on 11” x 17” paper?
If you plan on, or are already printing documents such as schematics, spreadsheets, menus or booklets that require printing of Ledger paper then you will only be able to look at the A3 product line as an option.
Even if paper size is not an issue, an A3 product may still be the right solution for you. A3 machines are larger and often come with more advanced features on the higher end products. Due to their size and added features, the upfront cost of an A3 product is typically greater than an A4 product; however the cost of supplies and cost of operation over time is typically lower. Read about the true costs here.
If paper size is not an issue then an A4 product may be the right option for you. A4 machines have a smaller footprint, are great in environments where space is an issue and are best suited for lighter duty applications. Due to their smaller size and fewer options, A4 printers have a lower upfront investment then A3 products. There was once a significant difference in the cost of operating an A4 product, however, we find that the cost to operate a A4 product over the long run is just as reasonable as the A3 products.
Com Pro Managed Print Solutions offers both A3 and A4 products. For a full comprehensive quote, contact our sales team with Request a Quote.