Best MICR Check Printers
When it comes to printing secure and compliant checks, a MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) printer is essential. These printers ensure that the check numbers and routing information are printed with magnetic ink, which is crucial for processing by banks. Here, we review some of the top MICR check printers available, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
1. HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw
Price: $379.99
Rating: 4.6/5
Description:
- Monochrome laser all-in-one printer with MICR printing capabilities.
- Prints up to 40 pages per minute.
- Includes duplex printing and scanning functions.
- Supports wireless and network connectivity.
- Features strong security options and easy integration with accounting software.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| High-speed printing ideal for busy offices. | Initial cost is on the higher side. |
| Robust security features protect sensitive information. | Does not support color printing. |
| Reliable and durable for long-term use. | Replacement toner can be expensive. |
Verdict:
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw is a top choice for businesses needing fast, secure, and reliable check printing. Its high-speed performance and robust security features make it worth the investment if you can manage the higher upfront cost.
2. Lexmark B2236dw
Price: $179.99
Rating: 4.4/5
Description:
- Monochrome laser printer with MICR capabilities.
- Prints up to 36 pages per minute.
- Includes duplex printing and wireless connectivity.
- Compact design suitable for small office spaces.
- Affordable and efficient for basic check printing needs.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast printing speeds for its price range. | Monochrome printing only, no color option. |
| Compact and space-saving design. | Limited paper handling capacity. |
| Cost-effective with low ongoing costs. | No automatic document feeder (ADF). |
Verdict:
The Lexmark B2236dw is a solid choice for small offices or businesses with modest check printing needs. Its speed and affordability make it a good value, though it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
3. Okidata Microline 320 Turbo
Price: $219.00
Rating: 4.3/5
Description:
- Dot matrix printer specifically designed for check printing.
- Offers high durability and reliability for continuous use.
- Features MICR capability with easy setup for check forms.
- Prints up to 300 characters per second.
- Ideal for businesses that print checks in bulk.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Highly durable and reliable for bulk printing. | Dot matrix technology is noisier than laser printers. |
| Cost-effective for high-volume check printing. | Lower print quality compared to modern laser printers. |
| Easy to set up with check printing software. | Not suitable for color printing. |
Verdict:
The Okidata Microline 320 Turbo is a reliable and cost-effective choice for businesses that need to print checks in high volumes. Its durability and affordability make it a solid option, despite the noise and lower print quality.
4. Brother MFC-L2750DW
Price: $239.99
Rating: 4.2/5
Description:
- All-in-one monochrome laser printer with MICR capability.
- Prints up to 36 pages per minute with duplex functionality.
- Includes a 250-sheet paper tray and 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF).
- Supports wireless, network, and mobile printing.
- Compact design suitable for small to medium-sized offices.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast print speeds with high-quality output. | Monochrome only, no color printing. |
| Compact and efficient for limited office space. | Initial setup may be complex for some users. |
| Includes useful features like ADF and duplex printing. | Higher cost of replacement toner cartridges. |
Verdict:
The Brother MFC-L2750DW is a versatile and efficient choice for MICR check printing, offering fast speeds and useful features. It’s well-suited for small to medium-sized offices, though its cost and monochrome limitation may be drawbacks for some users.
5. HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e
Price: $299.99
Rating: 4.5/5
Description:
- All-in-one inkjet printer with MICR printing capability.
- Prints up to 24 pages per minute in black and 20 pages per minute in color.
- Features a 35-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) and duplex printing.
- Supports wireless and mobile printing, including integration with accounting software.
- Includes a 2.65-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Versatile all-in-one functionality with color printing. | Ink cartridges can be costly to replace. |
| Good performance with high-quality output. | Slower print speeds compared to laser models. |
| Compact and user-friendly design. | Build quality may not be as robust as higher-end models. |
Verdict:
The HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e offers a versatile solution for MICR check printing with color capability and good performance. It’s a great choice if you need an all-in-one printer with high-quality output, though be mindful of the ink costs and slower print speeds.
Which is the Best Option?
Selecting the best MICR check printer depends on your specific needs:
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw is ideal for high-volume and secure check printing with fast speeds and robust security features.
- Lexmark B2236dw offers an affordable, compact option with fast printing for small offices.
- Okidata Microline 320 Turbo is perfect for high-volume check printing with its durability and cost-effectiveness.
- Brother MFC-L2750DW provides a versatile all-in-one solution with fast speeds and useful features for small to medium-sized offices.
- HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e is a versatile all-in-one printer with color capability and good performance for various office tasks.
Each printer has its strengths, so consider your specific requirements, such as print volume, budget, and additional features, to select the best MICR check printer for your needs.
