The A3/A4 Boxtrot: A Rundown on Latest and Greatest Manufacturer MFPs Available

Any State of the Industry report on A3 and A4 MFPs would be incomplete without an overview of the manufacturing community’s most recent innovations. Contrary to rumors of its demise, the MFP continues to be a foundational piece of the dealer product and service menu.

We’ve got you covered, from Avision to Xerox, with overviews of the features and capabilities, including the proverbial speeds and feeds. There are several new lines worth checking out, as manufacturers continue to bolster their offerings via added functionality, ease of use, enhanced security, cloud connectivity and critical integrations that seamlessly dovetail with client work environments.

Avision Labs

Avision’s A3-sized AM7650i and A4-sized AM43A Plus MFP with smart image processing technology offer users a range of robust features, including integrated blank page removal, auto orientation, image de-skewing and precise cropping through the use of one copy button. Using one click, printouts always come out right side up with all blank pages removed, no matter how the papers were originally stacked. These MFPs provide an efficient way to save paper while producing flawless copies.

The AM7650i comes with a 10” touchscreen that enables a preview of the document before printing. It has a swift print speed of up to 50 pages per minute (ppm) and four standard 500-page trays for a total capacity of up to 2,100 pages. The AM43A features a 4.3” touchscreen with a top print speed of 45 ppm with two 550-page trays, providing a total capacity of up to 1,100 pages.

Both machines are packed with practical functions, including scanning destination options (cloud folders, USB, email, etc.) and smart copy. In addition, secure print and copy features allow users to print confidential documents safely.

Brother International

The Brother MFC-J6560DW and MFC-J6960DW refreshed color inkjet printers for small- and medium-sized businesses feature Brother’s high-performing engine with 11×17” functionality for printing, copying, scanning and faxing, as well as high-quality color and borderless prints. Designed for productivity and efficiency, these all-in-one printers offer MAXIDRIVE Print Technology for durability and productivity and PerfectPrint Auto Detection System for automated self-maintenance.

The Workforce MFCJ6975DW is built for the enterprise offering laser-like performance with advanced Triple Layer Security, device management solutions for mass deployment and configuration, and eligibility for Brother Value Print Program Plus (VPP+) for supply discounts and cloud-based monitoring.

The company’s MFCL8730CDW and MFC-L8930CDW color laser printers are built for high-demand environments and are ideal for small- and medium-sized businesses. Featuring remote setup and management, these printers support digital archiving and document management for cost savings, as well as advanced security rapid first page out time (FPOT) and direct scanning.

The Brother Workforce MFC-EX575 offers expanded digital capabilities for multi-site businesses with distributed teams. From device management solutions and VPP+ eligibility to ultra-high-yield replacement toner cartridges for low total cost of ownership, Brother’s latest color laser Workforce model delivers maximum productivity and built-in value.

Epson America

The WorkForce Enterprise AM-C550z and AM-M5500 MFPs, powered by PrecisionCore Heat-Free technology, are engineered for powerful business productivity, fewer printing disruptions and less waste to end up in landfills.

The AM-C550z Color MFP A4 device prints at 55 ISO ppm and is ideal for high-demand, cost-conscious environments to optimize printer fleet. It offers the lowest power consumption in its class — up to 60% lower versus color laser printers. With a flexible design to fit virtually any workspace, it can be configured as a desktop or floor-standing unit and includes a built-in space-saving inner finisher for stacking, sorting and stapling.

The AM-M5500 Monochrome MFP is a high-productivity 55 ISO ppm A3 device ideal for departments and large workgroups. It features impressive image quality, crisp text and sharp graphics along with the lowest energy consumption in its class, up to 60% lower versus mono laser printers. It has an efficient design, using the least amount of floor space in its class and has an optional full-size or inner finisher for stacking, stapling and hole-punching.

Both MFPs offer a full suite of advanced security features and an intuitive, user-friendly 10.1” color touchscreen with a customizable interface for easy operation.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions

Konica Minolta’s A3 portfolio is anchored by the bizhub One i-Series multifunction printers that span from 25–95 ppm. These devices continue to evolve through ongoing firmware updates and solution integrations designed to meet changing customer requirements and compliance standards. Enhancements have focused on security, usability and IT compatibility, including support for modern authentication and cloud-based workflows. Recent and upcoming solution releases expand integration with Microsoft environments, enabling streamlined print, scan and authentication processes. Consistency across the A3 lineup allows organizations to deploy new functionality without disrupting existing workflows or retraining users.

The OEM’s A4 devices are built on the same architecture as its A3 platforms, delivering a consistent user interface and solution experience across mixed fleets. The portfolio includes color and monochrome multifunction devices, all-in-ones and single-function printers up to 52 ppm. Like the A3 lineup, A4 products are designed to evolve through firmware updates and expanding solution support, including both Konica Minolta and third-party applications. This approach allows customers to improve productivity, security and workflow efficiency over time while maintaining familiarity and consistency across device classes.

Kyocera Document Solutions America

For those seeking a more efficient, more flexible path into the A3 category, Kyocera Document Solutions America Inc. has launched its Nova series. Purpose-built for high-volume offices and central reprographics teams, Nova gives a uniquely efficient path to meeting diverse customer needs. Its speed-licensing approach enables creation of up to seven configurations—four color and three monochrome—from just two core platforms, boosting customer flexibility while reducing inventory. Nova features a dual-toner container system and front-access components to reduce service time, plus an AI-enabled, high-speed, dual-scan document processor with direct-path scanning capability and cloud connectivity to accelerate capture workflows. For long runs, conditional calibration, accurate front-to-back registration and media-specific controls help maintain consistency. Print quality targets professional output with 2400×2400 dpi resolution, ICC profiles and support for Fiery and Kyocera Production Print Suite. Nova’s finishing options range from stapling and booklet making to Z-folding, inserting and mail sorting. Enterprise-grade security certifications (including FIPS 140-3) and sustainability features—energy and CO2 monitoring, long-life components and a toner recycling program—round out the platform.

Ricoh USA

Ricoh USA Inc. expanded its A3 print portfolio with the introduction of its RICOH IM 7010 Series, a new line of black-and-white MFPs designed to support cloud connectivity, security and evolving document workflows.

The six-model lineup ranges from 25–70 ppm and extends core platform technologies from Ricoh’s color IM C7010 Series into a monochrome format intended for general office and higher-volume environments. The devices support print sizes up to 12×18” and feature an updated print engine that increases uptime and reduces maintenance through longer-lasting components. All models use Ricoh’s Android-based Smart Operation Panel, enabling touchscreen navigation and integration with cloud-based workflow and management tools. The introduction of the IM 7010 model expands the series into higher-throughput use cases that require faster, consistent output.

The RICOH IM 7010 Series is compatible with several optional Ricoh software platforms, including Smart Integration, CloudStream, Streamline NX and Intelligent Managed Print Services, allowing organizations to add workflow automation, centralized device management and analytics over time. Trusted Platform Module 2.0, TLS 1.3 encryption and automatic firmware updates via RICOH Always Current Technology are just part of the built-in security capabilities, and sustainability considerations include the use of recycled materials, reduced plastic packaging and energy-efficient toner formulations.

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America

Sharp’s A4 lineup includes 18 multifunction devices. The BP-C535WR, BP-C535WD and BP-C545WD are compact devices with print speeds ranging from 35–45 ppm and include a 7” capacitive touchscreen for navigation. They share features found in Sharp’s A3 workgroup multifunction printers, supporting consistent workflows across office environments. The devices are also compatible with accessories used in Sharp’s monochrome A4 models, which can help simplify inventory management. Security capabilities include firmware attack prevention, self-recovery and optional Bitdefender antivirus software.

The A3 workgroup document systems include 24 models with print speeds ranging from 26–90 ppm and a maximum paper capacity of up to 6,700 sheets. These monochrome and color devices support cloud services such as Microsoft Teams and include native Universal Print compatibility for use with Microsoft 365. Additional features include double-feed scan detection, auto skew correction, scanning speeds up to 300 ipm, touchless operation, a retractable keyboard, a motion sensor and an inner finisher. The devices also include security features such as optional Bitdefender antivirus, meet ENERGY STAR 3.0 requirements and are designed for efficient energy use.

Toshiba America Business Solutions

Toshiba America Business Solutions’ color, letter-size eSTUDIO331AC/401AC A4 series delivers the power and functionality of Toshiba’s award-winning ledger-size A3 models in a compact design, with security and cloud features built to streamline and protect document workflows for enterprises and small-to-medium-sized businesses. Walk-up tasks are simplified through the eBRIDGE user interface, consistent with Toshiba’s full-sized systems; with the embedded Elevate platform, it automates routine workflows to save time for individuals and departments.

The devices produce up to 42 color ppm and deliver a first copy in under seven seconds. A duplex single-pass feeder boosts productivity by scanning double-sided originals to file or email at up to 120 impressions per minute. Apple iBeacon technology and Mopria Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) certification make mobile connectivity straightforward for iOS and Android users. With Elevate Sky MFPConnect, the series supports remote monitoring, diagnostics and firmware updates while helping manage security policies and day-to-day print fleet operation. The systems also support Toshiba’s Print Support Application (PSA) to expand service across the eSTUDIO line, enhance print options, improve compatibility with modern Windows print environments and ease the transition from legacy drivers toward Microsoft Windows Protected Print readiness.

Xerox Corporation

The Xerox VersaLink series of A4 printers and MFPs are designed with a small footprint and offer easy usability with large touchscreens that can be personalized for each user, helping to speed up everyday tasks. They feature mobile and cloud-ready capabilities, including Apple AirPrint and Mopria Print Service, that simplify printing and scanning from mobile devices while making it easier to connect to common cloud storage services such as Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive. The devices come with an array of features to automate everyday tasks, have comprehensive security built in and are ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified.

The AltaLink A3 series of MFPs are designed for more demanding offices in SMBs and enterprises. They offer an intuitive experience based on a tablet-like interface that can be personalized for each user. The devices also offer adaptable technology that can evolve and expand as needs change, with apps from the Xerox App Gallery that simplify or automate tasks such as translation and document conversion. The AltaLink A3 series also includes comprehensive security backed by Trellix technology to prevent intrusions and keep data and documents secure, and they support a variety of paper tray configurations and finishing capabilities. Like the VersaLink series, these models are ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certified.

Erik Cagle
About the Author
Erik Cagle is the editorial director of ENX Magazine. He is an author, writer and editor who spent 18 years covering the commercial printing industry.