Starting a cyber café in Kenya can be a rewarding venture. With the rising demand for internet services, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, cyber cafés provide essential services such as printing, photocopying, and scanning. But let’s face it—the quality of your equipment can make or break your business.
One thing that Kenyan entrepreneurs are cautious about when starting such businesses is the reliability of their machines. Nobody wants a printer that breaks down mid-job or one that guzzles ink like a thirsty camel. To help you out, we’ll explore the Best Printer for Cyber cafés in Kenya, their prices, where to buy them, and their pros and cons. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Epson EcoTank L3150
The Epson EcoTank L3150 is a crowd favorite in Kenya, and for good reason. This ink-tank printer is designed for high-volume printing, making it a top choice for busy cyber cafés.
Price: Ksh 22,000 – Ksh 25,000
Where to Buy: Available at shops like Jumia, Text Book Centre, and local electronics stores in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective Printing: With its refillable ink tanks, you’ll save a ton on ink.
- Wireless Printing: It supports Wi-Fi, which is convenient for connecting multiple devices.
- Durable: Known for its longevity when maintained well.
Cons:
- Initial Setup Can Be Tricky: Some users find setting up the Wi-Fi feature a bit challenging.
- Slower Printing Speed: Not the fastest printer out there.
2. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw
If you’re looking for a laser printer that can handle large workloads, the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is an excellent option.
Price: Ksh 55,000 – Ksh 60,000
Where to Buy: Found at Village Market electronics stores, Jumia, and Tuscom Online.
Pros:
- Fast Printing Speed: Perfect for a bustling cyber café.
- Multi-Functional: Prints, scans, and photocopies efficiently.
- High-Quality Output: Produces sharp, professional documents.
Cons:
- Expensive Initial Cost: Not ideal for entrepreneurs on a tight budget.
- Costly Toner Cartridges: Replacement cartridges can be pricey.
3. Canon PIXMA G3411
The Canon PIXMA G3411 is a versatile printer that balances affordability and performance.
Price: Ksh 18,000 – Ksh 20,000
Where to Buy: Available on Jumia, Avenue Electronics, and some local shops in CBD Nairobi.
Pros:
- Affordable: Great value for money.
- Compact Design: Doesn’t take up much space.
- Good Print Quality: Ideal for both documents and photos.
Cons:
- Lower Paper Capacity: You might need to refill paper trays more often.
- No Duplex Printing: Doesn’t support automatic double-sided printing.
4. Brother DCP-T520W
Brother printers are gaining popularity in Kenya for their efficiency and durability, and the DCP-T520W is no exception.
Price: Ksh 24,000 – Ksh 27,000
Where to Buy: Common in tech stores in Nairobi, Jumia, and Kilimall.
Pros:
- High Print Yield: Produces a significant number of pages per refill.
- Wireless and Mobile Printing: Works seamlessly with smartphones.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to refill ink tanks and clean.
Cons:
- Slightly Slower Printing Speed: Takes time with heavy-duty jobs.
- Limited Availability: Not as widespread in smaller towns.
5. Kyocera Ecosys M2540dw
For those looking for industrial-level performance, the Kyocera Ecosys M2540dw is a reliable choice.
Price: Ksh 50,000 – Ksh 55,000
Where to Buy: Found at specialized tech shops like Elite Digital Solutions and Copier House.
Pros:
- Robust Build: Designed for heavy-duty use.
- Fast Printing Speeds: Great for high-demand environments.
- Energy Efficient: Saves power compared to older models.
Cons:
- High Initial Cost: Not budget-friendly for new businesses.
- Bulky Design: Takes up a lot of space.
Conclusion
The Best Printer for Cyber depends on your budget, the volume of printing you expect, and the type of services you’ll offer. If you’re starting small, the Canon PIXMA G3411 is a solid, affordable option. But if you’re expecting high traffic, consider investing in the HP LaserJet Pro or Kyocera Ecosys models for their speed and reliability.
Pro Tip: Always buy your printers from authorized dealers to ensure you get genuine products and warranties. And don’t forget—maintenance is key to keeping your equipment running smoothly.
FAQs
Can I use second-hand printers for my cyber café?
Yes, but ensure they’re in good condition and come with a warranty. Check places like OLX or refurbished electronics shops in Nairobi.
How do I maintain my printer?
Clean it regularly, use genuine ink or toner, and avoid overloading it with too many tasks at once.
Is it better to buy online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online shopping on platforms like Skywave offers convenience, while in-store purchases allow you to inspect the printer physically.
Which printer is the most economical?
The Epson EcoTank series is widely considered the most cost-effective due to its refillable ink system.
Can these printers handle photo printing?
Yes, most of them can, but models like the Canon PIXMA G3411 are better suited for high-quality photo printing.