Sharp MX-C312

The Sharp MX-C312 is a 31 ppm A4 color MFP from a previous generation, sold today mostly as refurbished hardware for small offices that want basic color print, copy, and scan in a compact footprint. Volume target is 2,500 to 7,000 mixed pages a month for small teams with light color needs. It supports 31 ppm color and B&W, duplex print and scan, the older Sharp panel, Gigabit Ethernet, USB, and optional Wi-Fi. The thing buyers regret: at refurb prices the MX-C312 looks attractive, but consumable costs on this older A4 color line are higher per page than current models, and the panel feels dated. Add the consumable cost gap over 4 years and a refurb often costs more than a new MX-C304W. Run the math before buying. If the refurb price is exceptional and your dealer commits to consumable pricing, this works for very light color use; otherwise buy current.