Developing rapidly since the introduction of the first fully automated plain-paper photocopier by Xerox in 1959, present-day copiers work more like computers, combining copying, faxing, laser printing, scanning and more into a single machine.

Although there are two types of copiers - analog and digital - the former is no match to the latter these days. In fact, most manufacturers have stopped producing new analog models. To make matters worse for the analog models, the more modern digital machines with similar features are now available at almost identical prices.

The digital type enjoys a lot of advantages over its analog rival. Digital models combine copying, network printing, and faxing. As there are fewer moving parts in the digital type, the instances of mechanical breakdown are less. Less noisy, the digital copiers are more efficient in reproducing fine lines and photographs.

Some people argue that analog copiers are more simple and user-friendly. You have just one button to press to get a copy. But the digital copiers are not difficult to operate either. A minimal amount of training is sufficient for the employees to learn how to operate them.

Before purchasing a digital copier, you must have a clear idea of your requirements from the copier, as well as the volume of work the copier is expected to perform, and how fast you want it to perform. You must also decide if you require a color copier or not. Although color copiers are not as expensive as they used to be earlier, you will still need to pay 20% to 30% more than the cost of a black-and-white copier.

Today, there is a huge market for copiers, with the industry generating about $25 billion in revenue by selling over 1.5 million new copiers each year. Due to the presence of this large and competitive market, copier manufacturers are now trying constantly to improve their products, leading to more benefits for the consumers.