8 HP Competitors and Alternatives for MPS
Colby Ezell / Managed Print / August 17, 2023
In today’s digital era, it might be surprising to learn that the print industry remains essential. Key sectors like education, legal, healthcare, and government continue their heavy reliance on printed materials. Businesses in these sectors typically work with managed print services, or MPS. The primary goal of MPS is to improve efficiency, productivity, and security.
Hewlett Packard (HP) is a major player in the printing domain. They’ve built a reputation for delivering quality products over the years and are a go-to for many in managed printing services. However, it’s worth noting that size and reputation don’t always translate to the best fit for every business’s specific needs.
Today, we will take a closer look at HP’s managed print services, their top competitors, and how your business can save money on printing.
While HP is known for its wide array of products and services, there’s no shortage of competitors that offer very similar features. While MPS aims to save businesses money on printing, some major issues in the industry plague their effectiveness.
Whether you’re working with HP or one of its competitors, you’re likely to run into one of the following issues:
Many clients face billing discrepancies and lack transparency in the charges levied by major print and copier providers. The overcharges and hidden costs can lead to businesses paying more than they should.
The standard terms and conditions in MPS contracts often favor the vendor, exposing the client to potential pitfalls. These unfavorable conditions highlight the importance of renegotiating terms to better protect the client’s interests.
While businesses spend substantially on their print and copier services, they often don’t receive the promised service. Frequent equipment downtimes, poor support, and an overall lack of management can negatively affect a company’s operations.
Many MPS programs are overly intricate, leading to wasted time and inefficiency for organizations. Clients are searching for programs that are not only cost-effective but also simple to understand and manage.
With businesses spending millions on printing services annually, there’s a clear opportunity to find cost-saving solutions. While you may consider switching to one of the competitors on our list, there are other alternatives as well. For example, the quickest and most straightforward way to save money is by consulting with a company that specializes in auditing MPS invoices, such as P3 Cost Analysts.
A strategic review can be immensely beneficial for businesses already utilizing managed print services, especially those whose monthly lease and print expenses exceed $10,000. Engaging with specialized MPS auditing and consulting services can shine a light on the inefficiencies, helping you navigate the contractual complexities and identifying considerable savings.
In addition, if you’re looking for alternatives to the common players in the market, there are more tailored solutions that align with individual business objectives. Opting for consultancy is the step that transitions your print management from merely functional to optimal.
As one of the top HP competitors in the world, Canon is known for bringing new and exciting approaches to the print and copier industry. Over the decades, Canon has built a reputation for producing reliable machines that offer good value for money. This commitment to quality and affordability makes Canon a top choice for many businesses looking for HP printer alternatives. With a global footprint and a dedication to innovation, Canon remains a strong contender in the printing sector.
Ricoh, founded in 1936, made significant strides when it became the first Japanese company to produce office equipment in the US in 1973. They are recognized for their multifunction printers, which stand out in quality, versatility, and advanced graphics capabilities. In comparison to other HP printer competitors, Ricoh offers a more cost-effective solution without compromising performance. This emphasis on value-for-money, combined with their historical innovation in the industry, positions Ricoh as a strong HP competitor in the market.
Based in Japan and operating in 49 countries, Konica Minolta has a strong reputation in the print industry. Their Optimized Print Services include a mix of devices, software, and services. They focus on providing a secure, affordable, and user-friendly print and scan service, and they update their offerings to meet changing business needs. This notable HP competitor offers reliable multifunction printers that are designed to improve a business’s print operations.
Sharp, a noteworthy HP printer alternative, offers businesses a way to understand and control their print expenses more effectively. Their Managed Print Services go beyond just providing equipment; it covers supplies, maintenance, and actual usage costs. This comprehensive approach helps companies identify hidden expenses and streamline operations.
A notable HP competitor from the US, Xerox, has been a fixture in the print industry for over a century. Originating with the development of the first plain paper photocopier, they’ve diversified into a wide range of services, including digital printing and managed print services. Their offerings, recognized for performance and cost-efficiency, present businesses with a strong HP printer alternative. With a commitment to innovation and a global footprint, Xerox stands as a formidable choice for those evaluating their print solutions.
In the arena of HP competitors, Lexmark, headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, has solidified its position since its inception in 1991. Catering to business and personal printing needs, Lexmark offers a range of printers and imaging products emphasizing durability and efficiency. Their commitment to sustainability and high-quality printing solutions makes them one of the best HP printer competitors for businesses around the globe. As a younger yet impactful player in the industry, Lexmark continues to be a choice worthy of consideration for those keen on optimizing their printing operations.
Established in 1875, Toshiba is one of the oldest and most established HP competitors. With its extensive history in innovation, Toshiba has developed a rich portfolio of printing solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses globally. Their printers are renowned for reliability, efficiency, and their ability to integrate seamlessly into a variety of workflows. For businesses looking for an HP printer alternative that combines heritage with forward-thinking technology, Toshiba offers a blend of time-tested expertise and modern innovations in the printing landscape.
Emerging from the historic city of Kyoto, Kyocera has been an influential player in the tech industry since 1959. As an HP competitor, Kyocera offers an array of printers and multifunctional products that are designed with durability and efficiency in mind. Their environmentally-friendly approach to printing technology sets them apart, as they prioritize long-life components to reduce business waste and costs. Companies searching for an HP printer alternative that balances eco-consciousness with robust performance will find Kyocera’s offerings compelling. Their global presence ensures businesses worldwide can benefit from their innovative and sustainable printing solutions.
Exploring alternatives to HP products and services can yield surprising benefits. Your business might discover solutions that align more closely with its needs and are more economical than the existing HP contract. Given the intricacies of pricing comparisons, it’s beneficial to work with a third party, such as P3 Cost Analysts, to ensure you get the most competitive deals for your print environment.
We strongly recommend our MPS auditing and consulting services over the traditional MPS offerings from vendors like HP. This strategy can achieve your desired outcomes while eliminating unnecessary costs or overpayments. If you’re locked into a contract with an HP, our experts can help fine-tune your lease agreements, streamline contracts, pinpoint discrepancies, and guarantee service quality matches your expectations. Our clients typically see savings between 30 and 40 percent.
Let P3 Cost Analysts get started with your MPS contracts, lease agreements, invoices, and service agreements today! Get started by scheduling a call with our print experts now.
