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Over the past few years, our technicians have serviced a wide range of printers and copiers for clients, and a clear trend has emerged. While many of the newer machines look sleek and modern on the outside, the build quality inside tells a different story. Components that were once sturdy are now being replaced with lighter, less durable materials, leading to more frequent issues and repairs despite their polished appearance.
The base of the printer was made from particleboard, a low-grade material made of compressed wood pulp and glue. Over time, the base had started to break apart, and the wheels couldn’t support the weight of the machine. Not only was it falling apart, but it posed a serious fire and safety risk in any office environment.
Sadly, low-quality materials and cut corners aren’t rare in the printer world, especially from machines sold by big-box retailers or lesser-known brands online.
At American Business Solutions, we help businesses across Florida avoid costly equipment mistakes by focusing on long-term performance and safety. Below, we’ve outlined 5 red flags to watch out for and 5 essential features you should demand in any business-grade printer.
If you spot any of these issues, it’s best to walk away no matter how attractive the price tag looks
Durability matters. Thin plastic trays, hollow panels, and shaky wheels are signs of a machine that won’t hold up to daily office use.
On low-end models, pressing one button on the screen causes the entire interface to flex. That’s a red flag. High-quality machines use independent buttons and reinforced screens for reliable input.
A monochrome or low-res touchscreen makes day-to-day use frustrating. If you’re struggling to read menus or operate the printer, productivity suffers.
No business printer should ever have a base made of wood products or low-grade plastic. These materials warp, break down over time, and can even pose fire risks.
A well-built printer has trays and processors that remain firmly attached when moved. If key components detach easily, that’s a sign of weak engineering.
When evaluating a printer or copier for your office, look for these must-have features:
Solid steel framing improves machine stability, safety, and durability. It’s the backbone of a professional printer—something you simply won’t see in lower-end models.
The issue is often not the casters themselves but the base material. Many industrial printers use cheap particleboard bases that break under stress, causing the casters to detach. To ensure durability, printers should be built with reinforced metal paired with heavy-duty casters that can reliably support the device during movement or servicing.
Modern business printers should fe ature tablet-style color touchscreens that are intuitive, responsive, and work seamlessly with either a stylus or finger gestures.
Check user reviews, especially from businesses. Many consumer-grade printers from retailers like Amazon or Walmart are designed to be disposable. True business machines are built to last and backed by local service providers like ABS
Strong, well-aligned trays and input/output mechanisms reduce paper jams, maintenance calls, and wear over time. If it feels solid, it probably is.
At ABS, we often meet business owners who purchased a printer online or from a retail store, only to realize it couldn’t keep up with daily office use. Here’s the truth:
Retail printers may seem like a bargain, but in the long run, they’ll cost you more in service, ink, and downtime.
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When you lease or purchase a printer through American Business Solutions, you’re getting more than just a machine. You’re getting:
We take the guesswork out of finding the right machine for your team—and make sure you’re set up for long-term success.
Don’t gamble on a cheap printer that won’t last. Let American Business Solutions help you find a reliable, high-quality copier or printer that fits your team’s needs and budget.
