Quick Overview
- 1#1: PaperCut - Comprehensive print management software that monitors, controls, and secures printing across print servers with quotas, tracking, and secure release features.
- 2#2: PrinterLogic - Serverless print management solution that deploys and manages printers centrally without traditional print servers.
- 3#3: Printix - Cloud-based print management platform for easy deployment, monitoring, and control of print servers and queues.
- 4#4: Pharos - Enterprise print management system offering job routing, monitoring, and cost recovery for large-scale print servers.
- 5#5: ThinPrint - Optimizes print server performance with connection management, compression, and remote printing capabilities.
- 6#6: MyQ - Smart print management software for centralized control, monitoring, and automation of print servers in enterprises.
- 7#7: UniPrint Infinity - Virtual print server management tool that follows users and print jobs across any platform or environment.
- 8#8: Equitrac - Print management solution with secure printing, tracking, and accounting features for print servers.
- 9#9: PrintFleet - Remote printer monitoring and management software for optimizing print server fleets and supplies.
- 10#10: O&K Print Watch - Print monitoring and accounting tool that tracks jobs and usage on Windows print servers.
These tools were selected and ranked based on key factors including feature breadth (such as monitoring, security, and automation), performance reliability, ease of deployment and use, and overall value, ensuring a balanced representation of top-performing solutions for varied business needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading print server management tools, including PaperCut, PrinterLogic, Printix, Pharos, and ThinPrint, providing insights into their capabilities to aid readers in selecting the right solution. Readers will discover how these tools streamline printing workflows, manage resources efficiently, and enhance security, enabling informed decisions for optimizing their print environments.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PaperCut Comprehensive print management software that monitors, controls, and secures printing across print servers with quotas, tracking, and secure release features. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | PrinterLogic Serverless print management solution that deploys and manages printers centrally without traditional print servers. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Printix Cloud-based print management platform for easy deployment, monitoring, and control of print servers and queues. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Pharos Enterprise print management system offering job routing, monitoring, and cost recovery for large-scale print servers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ThinPrint Optimizes print server performance with connection management, compression, and remote printing capabilities. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | MyQ Smart print management software for centralized control, monitoring, and automation of print servers in enterprises. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | UniPrint Infinity Virtual print server management tool that follows users and print jobs across any platform or environment. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Equitrac Print management solution with secure printing, tracking, and accounting features for print servers. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | PrintFleet Remote printer monitoring and management software for optimizing print server fleets and supplies. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | O&K Print Watch Print monitoring and accounting tool that tracks jobs and usage on Windows print servers. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive print management software that monitors, controls, and secures printing across print servers with quotas, tracking, and secure release features.
Serverless print management solution that deploys and manages printers centrally without traditional print servers.
Cloud-based print management platform for easy deployment, monitoring, and control of print servers and queues.
Enterprise print management system offering job routing, monitoring, and cost recovery for large-scale print servers.
Optimizes print server performance with connection management, compression, and remote printing capabilities.
Smart print management software for centralized control, monitoring, and automation of print servers in enterprises.
Virtual print server management tool that follows users and print jobs across any platform or environment.
Print management solution with secure printing, tracking, and accounting features for print servers.
Remote printer monitoring and management software for optimizing print server fleets and supplies.
Print monitoring and accounting tool that tracks jobs and usage on Windows print servers.
PaperCut
enterpriseComprehensive print management software that monitors, controls, and secures printing across print servers with quotas, tracking, and secure release features.
Find-Me printing with secure release, allowing users to send jobs to a virtual queue and release at any compatible device for maximum flexibility and security.
PaperCut is a comprehensive print management software suite (including PaperCut NG and MF editions) designed to control, monitor, and optimize printing across enterprise environments. It provides print tracking, user quotas, secure print release, cost recovery, and detailed reporting to reduce waste and costs. Supporting Windows, Mac, Linux servers, and direct integration with over 100 multifunction printer brands, it scales from small offices to large universities and corporations.
Pros
- Extensive cross-platform compatibility and MFP integration
- Powerful analytics, quotas, and secure print release features
- Proven ROI through print cost savings and waste reduction
Cons
- Steep initial setup for complex environments
- Pricing can be high for very small deployments
- Subscription model requires ongoing commitment
Best For
Medium to large enterprises, educational institutions, and government organizations needing advanced print security, tracking, and cost control.
Pricing
Quote-based; NG starts ~$250/server + $0.10-0.50/user/month; MF adds device licensing (~$50-200/device); perpetual or subscription options available.
PrinterLogic
enterpriseServerless print management solution that deploys and manages printers centrally without traditional print servers.
Cloud-native serverless printing that deploys printers directly to devices via a single URL, bypassing print servers entirely
PrinterLogic is a cloud-based print management platform that eliminates the need for traditional print servers by enabling direct IP printing from endpoints. It offers centralized printer deployment, secure print release, mobile printing support, and detailed analytics for IT admins. The self-service portal empowers users to find, install, and manage printers effortlessly across Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook devices.
Pros
- Serverless architecture reduces hardware costs and maintenance
- Robust secure printing with badge/PIN release and audit trails
- Scalable for enterprises with multi-site management and analytics
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be high for small organizations
- Requires reliable internet connectivity for cloud features
- Initial setup may involve Active Directory integration complexities
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with distributed workforces needing scalable, serverless print management without on-premises infrastructure.
Pricing
Per-user subscription starting at ~$1.50/user/month (annual billing), with per-printer options and enterprise volume discounts.
Printix
enterpriseCloud-based print management platform for easy deployment, monitoring, and control of print servers and queues.
Cloud-native print delivery that automatically handles drivers and queues without any local servers
Printix is a cloud-based print management platform that eliminates the need for traditional on-premises print servers by virtualizing print queues in the cloud. It enables secure, driverless printing from any device, supports follow-me printing, and provides detailed print tracking, quotas, and cost allocation. Designed for hybrid and remote work environments, it simplifies printer management across diverse fleets without hardware dependencies.
Pros
- Eliminates on-premises print servers for scalable cloud-based management
- Driverless printing and secure pull printing enhance security and convenience
- Quick deployment with minimal IT overhead and strong mobile support
Cons
- Requires reliable internet connectivity for all printing operations
- Subscription pricing can become costly for high-volume environments
- Limited advanced customization for highly specialized enterprise workflows
Best For
Medium to large organizations seeking a serverless, secure printing solution for distributed workforces.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $1 per user/month (minimum 50 users), with tiers based on print volume and features.
Pharos
enterpriseEnterprise print management system offering job routing, monitoring, and cost recovery for large-scale print servers.
Pharos Uniprint universal driver for seamless, driverless printing across diverse devices and OS
Pharos is an enterprise print management platform designed to oversee print servers, offering secure print release, usage tracking, and cost control across distributed environments. It centralizes management of printers, drivers, and jobs, with features like quotas, reporting, and mobile printing support. Primarily targeted at education and large organizations, it helps reduce waste and enhance security in high-volume printing scenarios.
Pros
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for print cost optimization
- Secure pull printing reduces unauthorized usage
- Scalable for large fleets with strong Active Directory integration
Cons
- Complex initial setup and configuration
- Higher pricing limits appeal for small businesses
- Some reported issues with non-Windows print server compatibility
Best For
Large enterprises and educational institutions with extensive print fleets seeking advanced monitoring and security.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically $5-15 per user/device annually or perpetual licenses starting at $10,000+ for mid-sized deployments.
ThinPrint
enterpriseOptimizes print server performance with connection management, compression, and remote printing capabilities.
ThinPrint .print technology for unparalleled print data compression and bandwidth savings
ThinPrint is an enterprise-grade print management solution optimized for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), Citrix, and thin client environments. It centralizes printer management, compresses print data to minimize bandwidth usage, and eliminates driver conflicts with universal drivers. The software enables secure, efficient printing across global networks while supporting load balancing and cost tracking.
Pros
- Exceptional print data compression (up to 98%) reducing bandwidth by orders of magnitude
- Seamless integration with VDI platforms like Citrix and VMware
- Advanced security features including badge authentication and pull printing
Cons
- Complex initial setup requiring IT expertise
- High licensing costs for smaller deployments
- Limited appeal outside virtualized or large-scale environments
Best For
Large enterprises with VDI or Citrix deployments seeking optimized, secure, and centralized print management.
Pricing
Per-user or per-printer licensing; starts at ~$60/user/year with enterprise volume discounts (contact sales for quotes).
MyQ
enterpriseSmart print management software for centralized control, monitoring, and automation of print servers in enterprises.
Containerized MyQ Platform for flexible, rapid deployment and automatic updates across on-prem or cloud environments
MyQ is a robust print server management solution designed for centralizing control over printer fleets in enterprises and educational environments. It provides secure pull printing, user authentication via PIN, badge, or mobile, print quotas, and detailed cost accounting to reduce waste and enhance security. The platform supports on-premises, cloud, or hybrid deployments with broad printer compatibility and integration with Active Directory or LDAP.
Pros
- Comprehensive secure printing with multiple authentication methods
- Powerful analytics and reporting for cost optimization
- Scalable architecture supporting thousands of devices
Cons
- Complex initial setup requiring IT expertise
- Additional hardware costs for advanced authentication
- Limited out-of-box integrations with some niche systems
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises and universities with diverse printer fleets seeking advanced security and cost control.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically per-user or per-device licensing starting around $5-15/month per endpoint, plus optional hardware.
UniPrint Infinity
enterpriseVirtual print server management tool that follows users and print jobs across any platform or environment.
Infinity Universal Driverless Printing, enabling seamless print job rendering without device-specific drivers
UniPrint Infinity is an enterprise-grade print management software that centralizes control over print servers, enabling secure pull printing, job tracking, and cost allocation across networked environments. It supports driverless printing, mobile printing, and integration with Active Directory for user authentication and quotas. Designed for large organizations, it reduces print waste, enhances security, and provides detailed analytics to optimize printing operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive secure pull printing and release stations
- Driverless printing support for virtually any printer
- Robust reporting, analytics, and cost tracking tools
Cons
- Complex initial setup requiring IT expertise
- Quote-based pricing lacks transparency
- Limited out-of-box simplicity for smaller deployments
Best For
Large enterprises with distributed print fleets needing advanced security, auditing, and cost management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically perpetual licenses or subscriptions starting from several thousand dollars annually based on users/printers.
Equitrac
enterprisePrint management solution with secure printing, tracking, and accounting features for print servers.
Advanced cost recovery workflows that automate billing and reimbursement for client or departmental printing
Equitrac is an enterprise-grade print management solution that provides secure printing, cost tracking, and device management for organizations with high-volume printing needs. It enables features like print quotas, follow-me printing, detailed auditing, and cost recovery through integration with multifunction printers and copiers from major vendors. Primarily targeted at education, legal, and corporate environments, Equitrac helps reduce print waste, enforce policies, and generate compliance reports.
Pros
- Comprehensive print tracking and auditing with customizable reports
- Robust secure release and follow-me printing for enhanced security
- Strong integration with Active Directory and diverse printer fleets
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial deployment
- High licensing costs for smaller organizations
- Dated user interface in some components
Best For
Large enterprises and educational institutions requiring advanced print cost control and policy enforcement.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically per-user or per-device starting at $5,000+ annually with volume discounts.
PrintFleet
enterpriseRemote printer monitoring and management software for optimizing print server fleets and supplies.
AutoSync technology for reliable, agentless automated data collection from virtually any printer model
PrintFleet is a cloud-based print management platform tailored for managed print service providers (MPSPs) and enterprises to remotely monitor, manage, and optimize large printer fleets. It automates meter reads, supplies replenishment, and device alerts while providing detailed reporting and analytics for cost control and efficiency. The software integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, enabling proactive maintenance to reduce downtime.
Pros
- Automated meter reading and supplies management
- Real-time alerts and remote diagnostics
- Comprehensive reporting for fleet optimization
Cons
- Higher pricing for smaller deployments
- Limited customization for non-MPS users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced analytics
Best For
Managed print service providers handling large, distributed printer fleets across multiple clients.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$1.50 per device/month, with tiered enterprise plans and custom quotes.
O&K Print Watch
specializedPrint monitoring and accounting tool that tracks jobs and usage on Windows print servers.
Customizable per-page cost calculation accounting for color, black & white, paper sizes, and duplex printing
O&K Print Watch is a Windows-based print management software designed to monitor, track, and account for all print jobs across networked printers and print servers. It captures detailed information on printed pages, users, costs, and usage patterns, enabling quota enforcement and expense control. The tool generates customizable reports and supports cost calculations based on ink, paper, and maintenance rates, making it suitable for cost-conscious environments.
Pros
- Precise tracking of print jobs with user and device attribution
- Flexible cost calculation and quota management
- Comprehensive reporting for auditing and analysis
Cons
- Limited to Windows environments with no native Mac/Linux support
- Dated interface lacking modern UI/UX
- No cloud integration or mobile access
Best For
Small to medium businesses with Windows print servers needing basic print accounting and cost control.
Pricing
Free for up to 3 printers; paid licenses start at $49 for 5 printers, scaling with additional printers/users.
Conclusion
The top 10 print server management tools each bring unique strengths, with PaperCut leading as the overall best for its robust monitoring, control, and security features that cover print servers comprehensively. PrinterLogic stands out as a strong alternative for serverless, centralized management, while Printix excels with its cloud-based simplicity, fitting diverse operational needs—whether prioritizing automation, cost efficiency, or scalability. The rankings reflect tailored solutions, ensuring there’s a top tool for nearly every setup.
Dive into PaperCut to experience its all-in-one print server management capabilities, or explore PrinterLogic or Printix to find the perfect fit for your workflow and needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison