In this guide-

+ Background on copy machines
+ Features and functions to look for in a copy machine
+ How to find the best copier deal for you

Background on copy machines
Copy machines don't just copy anymore. Today's copiers offer much more functionality than those just 5-10 years ago, and the range of available features can be daunting. Because of these advances, copiers are now known as 'digital imaging systems', 'digital copyprinters', etc. This site gives advice and tips on how to find the best copy machine for you.

Finding the right copier for you begins by analyzing your needs along three characteristics:

What is your budget?
Will you need to use this as a fax or printer?
Will you need to print in color?

Answering these questions will help you decide among the three main types of copiers- analog, digital, and color.

Analog
If budget is the driving factor for you or you have modest copying needs, an analog copier might be the best option for you. Although few manufacturers are introducing new analog copy machines, they are still easy to find and are (generally) the least expensive type of copier. Pricing for a basic analog copier starts at around $200 and can go up to several thousand, depending on features.

Digital
If you're looking to perform fax or printing functions through your copier, you will need a digital copy machine. Apart from these functions, digital copiers do have some advantages over analog, including: less noise, fewer moving parts, better copy quality in some instances (i.e., photos), and better reduction/enlargement capabilities. Black and white digital copiers start at around $700 on the low end of the range, and the highest-end models can cost more than $100,000.

Color
Color copiers use digital laser technology and can duplicate in black and white as well. Most color copiers can be configured to act as a color printer, and you can also get an ink-jet color printer with scanning capabilities that will essentially function as a color