Quadient (formerly Neopost) franking machines guide – Reviews, pros and cons, best models and alternatives

Quadient, previously known as Neopost, is one of the leading companies providing franking machines and mail solutions across the world. Their machines are renowned for quality, ease of use, and innovation. This guide will explore the different models, pros and cons, and suitable alternatives available in the UK market.

Understanding franking machines

Franking machines are essential tools for businesses, allowing for easy postage printing without the need to visit the post office. These machines provide efficient and cost-effective solutions for sending large volumes of mail.

Quadient (Neopost) franking machine reviews

Quadient, having been in the industry for many years, has consistently been reviewed positively by third-party experts and users alike. Here’s an overall summary:

Positive feedback

1. Ease of Use: Many reviewers praise the user-friendly interfaces, especially in the entry-level models designed for small businesses, like the IS-280.
2. Efficiency and Speed: Models like the IN-700 and iX-7 Series have been lauded for their high speed and efficiency, making them suitable for medium to large enterprises.
3. Reliability: Quadient’s machines have been noted for their reliability and robustness, even under heavy workloads.
4. Customer Support: Users often appreciate the timely customer support and the abundance of online resources.

Mixed opinions

1. Cost: While some users find Quadient machines to be competitively priced, others feel that the high-end models can be costly, especially for small businesses.
2. Integration with Other Systems: Some users love the seamless integration with various mailing systems, but others have reported difficulties.

Negative feedback

1. Installation Challenges: Some reviews mentioned that complex models like the iX-7 Series might require professional installation, leading to additional costs.
2. Limited Features in Entry-Level Models: A few users have expressed disappointment with the limited functionalities in some of the more basic models.

Expert opinions

Industry experts often commend Quadient for its innovation and range of products, catering to different business sizes and needs. The company’s commitment to sustainability and providing eco-friendly products is also highlighted in several reviews.

Reviews summary

Overall, Quadient’s franking machines enjoy a strong reputation in the market, with the positive aspects generally outweighing the negatives.

Their range of products ensures that businesses of all sizes can find something tailored to their needs.

However, potential buyers should carefully evaluate their specific requirements and consult with professionals or read extensive reviews to choose the best model for their unique situation.

Best models

Model	Ideal for	Speed (letters/min)	Scale (kg)	Connectivity	Ink Capacity (impressions)	Pros	Cons
Quadient IS-280	Small businesses	Up to 30	Integrated 3 kg	LAN	Up to 2,500	Compact design, user-friendly	Limited features, not for large volumes
Quadient IN-700	Medium to large businesses	Up to 140	Dynamic, up to 30 kg	LAN and Wi-Fi	Up to 20,000	Versatile, high speed	Higher initial cost, professional installation
Quadient IN-600	Medium businesses	Up to 75	Optional, up to 30 kg	LAN	Up to 10,000	Good for moderate volumes, efficient	Less feature-rich
Quadient iX-7 Series	Large businesses	Up to 150	Dynamic, up to 30 kg	LAN, Wi-Fi, USB	Up to 100,000	High speed, robust, high volumes	Expensive, requires space, professional installation

This table summarises the critical specifications and factors to consider when choosing the best Quadient franking machine for your business. It includes considerations for the ideal business size, speed, scale, connectivity options, ink capacity, and key pros and cons of each model.

Quadient IS-280

• Ideal for: Small businesses
• Speed: Up to 30 letters per minute
• Scale: Integrated 3 kg weighing platform
• Connectivity: LAN connection
• Ink Capacity: Up to 2,500 impressions per cartridge
• Pros: Compact design, user-friendly
• Cons: Limited features, not suitable for large volumes

Quadient IN-700

• Ideal for: Medium to large businesses
• Speed: Up to 140 letters per minute
• Scale: Dynamic weighing option, up to 30 kg
• Connectivity: LAN and Wi-Fi options
• Ink Capacity: Up to 20,000 impressions per cartridge
• Pros: Versatile, high speed
• Cons: Higher initial cost, may require professional installation

Quadient IN-600

• Ideal for: Medium businesses
• Speed: Up to 75 letters per minute
• Scale: Optional weighing platform, up to 30 kg
• Connectivity: LAN connection
• Ink Capacity: Up to 10,000 impressions per cartridge
• Pros: Good for moderate mail volumes, efficient
• Cons: Less feature-rich compared to higher-end models

Quadient iX-7 Series

• Ideal for: Large businesses
• Speed: Up to 150 letters per minute
• Scale: Dynamic weighing option, up to 30 kg
• Connectivity: LAN, Wi-Fi, and USB options
• Ink Capacity: Up to 100,000 impressions per cartridge
• Pros: High speed, robust and suitable for high volumes
• Cons: Expensive, requires space and professional installation

How much do Quadient franking machines cost?

When considering investing in a Quadient franking machine, understanding the associated costs is vital. The price range varies depending on the model, features, and support packages. Below, you’ll find an overview of the different factors that influence the cost of Quadient franking machines.

Entry-level models

For small businesses with basic needs, entry-level models like the Quadient IS-280 start at around £1,000. These machines provide essential functionalities at an affordable price point.

Mid-range models

Designed for medium businesses with moderate mailing volumes, mid-range models like the IN-600 may range from £3,000 to £5,000. These machines offer more features, flexibility, and integration options.

High-end models

High-end models like the iX-7 Series, catering to large businesses with high mailing volumes, can cost upwards of £10,000. They provide maximum efficiency, speed, and advanced features such as colour printing and dynamic weighing.

Additional costs

• Ink and Supplies: Consumables like ink cartridges and labels will be an ongoing expense, with prices varying based on volume and frequency of use.
• Maintenance and Support Packages: Regular maintenance is essential for the machine’s optimal performance, and support packages can vary in cost depending on the level of service required.
• Leasing Options: If purchasing outright isn’t feasible, many dealers offer leasing options, with monthly payments dependent on the machine’s model and terms of the lease.

See our guide to franking machine costs.

Alternatives explained

Pitney Bowes

A strong competitor, Pitney Bowes offers a variety of models that cater to different business needs. Their machines are known for durability and efficiency.

FP Mailing Solutions

Another reputable alternative, FP Mailing Solutions, focuses on innovative technology. They have a wide range of machines, from entry-level to high-end models.

Conclusion

Quadient’s franking machines are suitable for a wide range of businesses, offering solutions for different mailing volumes and needs. Their machines are known for quality and efficiency, but it’s worth considering alternatives like Pitney Bowes and FP Mailing Solutions to find the best fit for your specific requirements.

Choosing the right franking machine can streamline your business’s mailing process, save time, and reduce costs. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consult with a mailing solutions provider to find the perfect model for your business.

If you’re in the market for a new franking machine, Quadient’s range of models, coupled with the availability of other reliable alternatives, provides various options to explore. By understanding your business’s unique needs, you can make an informed decision that will positively impact your daily operations.

FAQ

These questions and answers cover a wide range of topics related to Quadient franking machines, from general information and purchasing considerations to technical aspects and support. If you have any further questions, it’s recommended to consult with a Quadient specialist or authorised dealer.