When you need documents printed in a pinch, two major players often come to mind: FedEx Office and Staples. Both offer convenient printing services for everything from flyers to reports. But when it comes to quality, speed, and cost, which one truly reigns supreme?
Choosing between FedEx and Staples printing can be a tough decision, especially if you have specific project requirements. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is key to making the right choice for your business or personal needs.
This comparison will dive deep into the offerings of FedEx vs Staples printing, helping you decide where to invest your time and money for your next print job.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | FedEx Office | Staples Printing Services |
|---|---|---|
| Document Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Color Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Black & White Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Large Format Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Photo Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Customization Options | Extensive | Extensive |
| Online Ordering | Yes | Yes |
| In-Store Pickup | Yes | Yes |
| Shipping Options | Yes | Yes |
| Design Services | Yes | Yes |
| Binding Options | Yes | Yes |
| Lamination | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Document Printing
- Fedex: Offers a wide range of paper types, sizes, and binding options for professional documents. They handle both black and white and color printing with good quality, suitable for reports and presentations. Pricing can be slightly higher, especially for larger volumes or specialized finishes.
- Staples Printing: Provides convenient in-store and online document printing services with standard paper options and basic binding. Known for competitive pricing and quick turnaround for everyday printing needs. Quality is generally good for typical office documents, though may not match the premium feel of FedEx for highly critical presentations.
- Winner: Staples Printing
Large Format Printing
- Fedex: Excels in large format printing for posters, banners, and blueprints. They offer various materials like vinyl, canvas, and photo paper, with excellent print resolution and durability. This service is ideal for marketing materials and architectural plans.
- Staples Printing: Offers some large format printing options, primarily for posters and banners, often with a focus on quick service for event signage. The material selection might be more limited compared to FedEx, and the resolution may be less detailed for intricate designs.
- Winner: FedEx
Customization & Finishing Options
- Fedex: Provides extensive customization, including various binding styles (spiral, perfect, comb), lamination, folding, and specialty finishes. They cater to more complex project requirements and offer a higher degree of professional finishing.
- Staples Printing: Offers common finishing options like stapling, folding, and basic binding (coil, comb). While sufficient for many needs, the range of specialized or premium finishes is less extensive than FedEx.
- Winner: FedEx
Turnaround Time
- Fedex: Offers same-day or next-day turnaround for many standard printing jobs, especially for local stores. For more complex or large-format orders, the turnaround time can extend to a few business days.
- Staples Printing: Known for its speed, with many document printing orders completed within hours or by the end of the day, especially for common requests. Large format or highly customized orders may take longer.
- Winner: Staples Printing
Online Ordering Experience
- Fedex: Features a robust online portal for uploading files, selecting print options, and placing orders. The interface is generally intuitive, allowing for detailed specifications and proofs before finalizing.
- Staples Printing: Offers a user-friendly online platform for uploading documents and selecting services. It’s straightforward for basic printing needs, though may lack some of the granular customization options found on FedEx’s site.
- Winner: FedEx
Pricing & Value
- Fedex: Tends to be on the higher end, reflecting the premium quality, extensive options, and professional service. It can be more cost-effective for high-volume or specialized projects where quality is paramount.
- Staples Printing: Generally offers more competitive and affordable pricing, especially for everyday printing needs and smaller quantities. They often have deals or discounts that make them a budget-friendly choice.
- Winner: Staples Printing
In-Store Convenience & Support
- Fedex: FedEx Office locations are readily available and offer in-person assistance for design, troubleshooting, and order pickup. Staff are typically knowledgeable about printing services.
- Staples Printing: Staples stores provide convenient access to printing services with staff available to help with orders. The focus is on quick service for common printing tasks.
- Winner: Tie
Specialty Printing (e.g., Photo Prints, Business Cards)
- Fedex: Offers a good range of specialty printing, including high-quality photo prints, custom business cards with various paper stocks and finishes, and other marketing collateral. They cater to professional branding needs.
- Staples Printing: Provides essential specialty printing services like business cards and photo prints, often with quick turnaround and affordable pricing. The selection of premium paper stocks and advanced finishes for business cards might be more limited.
- Winner: FedEx
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Convenience & Accessibility | FedEx Office |
| Pricing & Value | Staples Printing Services |
| Online Ordering Experience | Staples Printing Services |
| Speed of Service | FedEx Office |
| Range of Business Services | Staples Printing Services |
| Specialty & Large Format Printing | FedEx Office |
What They Have in Common
- Wide Range of Printing Services: Both FedEx Office and Staples Printing Services offer a comprehensive suite of printing solutions, catering to both personal and business needs, from basic document printing to more complex large-format projects.
- Convenient Online Ordering: Customers can easily upload files, customize their orders, and place them online through dedicated platforms provided by both companies, streamlining the printing process from start to finish.
- Multiple Fulfillment Options: Both services provide flexible options for receiving printed materials, including in-store pickup at numerous locations and various shipping methods to suit different timelines and preferences.
- Variety of Finishing Services: Beyond basic printing, both FedEx Office and Staples offer a range of finishing services such as binding, lamination, and cutting, allowing for professional presentation of printed documents.
- Design Assistance: For those needing help with their designs, both companies provide access to design services, whether it’s simple layout assistance or more complex graphic design work.
- Color and Black & White Options: Whether you need vibrant color prints or cost-effective black and white copies, both FedEx Office and Staples can accommodate your requirements for various document types.
Fedex Vs Staples Printing Buying Guide
Convenience and Accessibility
FedEx Office boasts a widespread network of physical locations, making it highly accessible for in-person printing needs. This is particularly beneficial for urgent jobs or when you need immediate assistance with your print projects. Their stores are often found in high-traffic areas, offering a convenient drop-in option for many customers. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Staples Printing also has a significant retail presence, though it might be slightly less dense than FedEx Office in some regions. Their in-store printing services are readily available, and the familiarity of the Staples brand can be reassuring for some consumers. Consider which chain has more convenient locations for your regular needs.
Service Offerings and Specialization
FedEx Office is well-regarded for its comprehensive range of printing services, including large-format printing, architectural drawings, and professional binding options. They cater to a diverse clientele, from students to small businesses needing specialized print solutions. Their expertise in handling complex print jobs can be a significant advantage.
Staples Printing offers a solid array of standard printing services, such as document printing, flyers, posters, and basic binding. While they may not offer the same depth of highly specialized services as FedEx, they excel in providing efficient and reliable printing for everyday business and personal needs. Their focus is on delivering accessible and user-friendly printing solutions.
Online Ordering and User Experience
Both FedEx Office and Staples Printing provide online ordering platforms, allowing for convenient submission of print jobs from anywhere. FedEx’s online system is generally robust, offering clear options for customization and pickup or delivery. The interface is designed for ease of use, even for those less familiar with online printing.
Staples’ online ordering system is also user-friendly and efficient, often integrating seamlessly with their loyalty programs. They aim to simplify the process of uploading files, selecting specifications, and choosing delivery or pickup. Evaluating the clarity of their online design tools and the responsiveness of their customer support is key. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Pricing and Value
Pricing can vary between FedEx Office and Staples Printing depending on the specific service, volume, and any ongoing promotions. Generally, FedEx Office might have slightly higher pricing for some specialized services due to their expertise and equipment. However, their quality and turnaround times can justify the cost for critical projects.
Staples Printing often offers competitive pricing, particularly for standard print jobs and bulk orders. They are known for providing good value, especially for small businesses and individuals looking for cost-effective printing solutions. Comparing quotes for your specific print needs is always recommended to find the best deal.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy FedEx Office If…
- You need quick turnaround times for urgent print jobs, as their network often allows for faster local service.
- You value the convenience of dropping off or picking up prints while running other errands, given their widespread retail presence.
- You’re looking for a variety of finishing options and are willing to pay a slight premium for potential speed and accessibility.
Buy Staples Printing Services If…
- You are a small business owner looking for consistent, reliable printing for your office needs, including marketing materials and reports.
- You are looking for competitive pricing and often have access to coupons or loyalty programs that can further reduce costs.
- You prefer a more streamlined online ordering experience and appreciate the integration with other office supply purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference in print quality between FedEx and Staples?
Both FedEx Office and Staples Printing generally offer good to excellent print quality for standard documents and marketing materials. FedEx Office is often perceived to have a slight edge in professional finishing and handling complex, high-resolution prints, especially for large-format items. Staples is very reliable for everyday printing needs, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp text. Ultimately, the perceived difference can depend on the specific print job and the equipment used at individual locations.
Which is better for urgent printing needs?
For urgent printing needs, FedEx Office often has a slight advantage due to its extensive network and emphasis on quick turnaround times for in-store services. Many FedEx Office locations are equipped to handle rush orders efficiently. Staples Printing also offers quick printing services, but their turnaround might vary more depending on the complexity of the job and the specific store’s capacity. It’s always advisable to call ahead to confirm availability for immediate needs.
Can I get custom binding options at both?
Yes, both FedEx Office and Staples Printing offer a range of custom binding options. FedEx Office is particularly known for its comprehensive binding services, including professional coil, comb, and wire binding, as well as more specialized options like perfect binding for reports and presentations. Staples Printing also provides standard binding services like comb and spiral binding, suitable for most everyday document needs. The specific types of binding available may vary by location. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
How do their online ordering systems compare?
Both FedEx Office and Staples Printing have user-friendly online ordering systems designed for ease of use. FedEx’s platform is robust, offering clear customization choices and efficient order tracking. Staples’ system is also intuitive, often integrating well with their rewards program and providing straightforward options for uploading files and selecting services. Both aim to simplify the process from file upload to pickup or delivery, making them convenient for remote ordering.
Which offers better value for bulk printing?
When it comes to bulk printing, Staples Printing often presents better overall value due to generally more competitive pricing structures for larger quantities. They frequently have promotions and discounts that make them an attractive option for businesses or individuals needing to print a significant number of items. While FedEx Office can handle bulk orders, their pricing might be higher, especially for specialized prints, though quality can be exceptional.
Final Verdict
Both FedEx Office and Staples Printing are reliable choices for your printing needs. FedEx Office excels in specialized services, large-format printing, and offers widespread accessibility for urgent jobs. Staples Printing often provides better value for bulk orders and standard printing, with a user-friendly online experience. For general business and personal printing, Staples often edges out FedEx on price and convenience for everyday needs.
Winner: Staples Printing