Where to Print Color Copies: 7 Best Places for Fast & Affordable Printing

When you need color copies for a business presentation, school project, or personal event, finding the right place to print them can make a big difference in both quality and cost. Whether you need a few copies or several hundred, knowing your options helps you make the best choice for your specific needs. This guide explores the seven best places to get color copies printed quickly and affordably, along with tips to help you get the best value.

Where to Print Color Copies

When you need color copies, you have several different options to choose from. Each has its own advantages depending on your specific needs, budget, and timeline.

1. Office Supply Stores

Major office supply chains like Staples and Office Depot/OfficeMax offer comprehensive printing services. Staples advertises black and white printing starting from $0.24 per page, with color copies costing a bit more. These stores are convenient because they have locations in most cities and towns.

Benefits of office supply stores include:

• Widespread availability with many locations
• Self-service and full-service options
• Various paper types and finishing options (binding, laminating, etc.)
• Often offer same-day service for orders placed before noon
• Loyalty programs that can reduce costs over time

The downside is that their per-copy prices tend to be higher than online options, especially for large quantities.

2. Shipping Stores

Shipping service providers like UPS Store and FedEx Office (formerly Kinko’s) offer color copying services at most locations. At FedEx Office, you can “easily make full-color or black-and-white copies and prints” using either self-service stations or with help from their team members.

These locations are ideal when you need to:

• Print and ship documents in one stop
• Get copies made during extended business hours
• Print while traveling (they have locations nationwide)
• Print from digital files stored in the cloud

Like office supply stores, shipping centers typically charge premium prices compared to dedicated print shops or online services.

3. Local Print Shops

Independent, locally-owned print shops often provide excellent value for color copies. These small businesses typically offer competitive prices to attract customers away from the big chains.

Advantages of local print shops include:

• Personalized service and advice
• Potentially lower prices than chain stores
• Flexible options and willingness to accommodate special requests
• Support for local businesses
• Expertise in print quality and color matching

Call ahead to confirm their services and prices, as these vary widely between different local shops.

4. Online Printing Services

Online printing companies have revolutionized the color copy market by offering significantly lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Services like BestValueCopy.com, DocuCopies.com, and ColorCopiesUSA.com specialize in affordable color printing.

Some online services like Color Copies USA offer special deals for bulk orders, such as 500 copies or 2,000 copies to provide the best value for your money. Other services like BestValueCopy advertise color copies for as low as 9¢ each with “brilliant color & endless choices”.

The main benefits of online printing services include:

• Significantly lower prices, especially for larger quantities
• Free shipping on orders over a certain amount (typically $75-125)
• Professional quality printing using commercial grade equipment
• Wide range of paper options and finishing services
• Convenient ordering from your home or office

The primary drawback is shipping time – you’ll need to plan ahead as most online services require 1-3 business days plus shipping time.

5. Warehouse Clubs

If you’re a member of Costco or Sam’s Club, don’t overlook their printing services. Many warehouse clubs offer color copying at competitive rates for members.

Benefits include:

• Lower prices than retail chains
• Convenient if you’re already a member
• Often located in shopping centers you may already visit
• Can combine with other shopping errands

The selection of paper types and finishing options may be more limited compared to dedicated print shops.

6. University Print Centers

College and university print centers often offer services to the general public, not just students and faculty. These facilities typically have professional equipment and charge reasonable rates.

Advantages of university print centers:

• Often less expensive than commercial chains
• High-quality equipment for professional results
• Knowledgeable staff familiar with academic and professional documents
• May offer student/educator discounts if you qualify

Call ahead to confirm if they serve non-university customers and to check their pricing and services.

7. Public Libraries

Many public libraries now offer color printing services at affordable rates. While they may not handle large volume jobs, libraries are perfect for printing smaller quantities.

Library printing benefits:

• Convenient neighborhood locations
• Very affordable per-page pricing
• No minimum order requirements
• Support for a valuable community resource

Libraries typically don’t offer finishing services like binding or laminating, and their paper selection is usually limited to standard options.

Color Copy Services

When comparing color copy services, it’s important to understand what features differentiate them and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Basic vs. Premium Services

Basic color copy services provide simple copying without extra features. This is ideal for straightforward documents where you just need color reproduction. Premium services offer additional options like:

• High-resolution printing for photos and detailed graphics
• Color matching for brand consistency
• Special paper types (glossy, cardstock, recycled, etc.)
• Professional finishing (binding, folding, stapling, etc.)
• Design assistance or templates

Self-Service vs. Full-Service

Many print shops offer both self-service and full-service options:

Self-service allows you to make copies yourself using their equipment. This is typically less expensive and faster for small jobs. Most locations charge by the copy and accept credit cards or prepaid cards at the machine.

Full-service means staff members handle your job from start to finish. This is better for complex jobs, large quantities, or when you need advice on paper types or finishing options. Full-service usually offers more paper choices and finishing options.

Digital File Printing vs. Physical Copying

Modern copy services handle both approaches:

Digital file printing means submitting your files electronically (via email, USB drive, or cloud storage) to be printed. This maintains the highest quality and allows for adjustments if needed.

Physical copying involves scanning your original documents to make copies. This is convenient when you don’t have a digital version, but may result in slight quality loss compared to the original.

Best Color Copy Printing

Finding the best place for color copy printing depends on balancing several factors including quality, price, convenience, and turnaround time.

Quality Considerations

For the best print quality, look for services that:

• Use commercial-grade digital printing equipment
• Offer at least 600 dpi resolution (1200 dpi is better for detailed images)
• Provide color calibration and consistency
• Use high-quality toner or ink
• Offer premium paper options

Some companies like Color Copies USA highlight their printing technology, such as “the Revoria Press EC1100 by Fujifilm” which they note “ensures that every print is of the highest quality”.

Service Reliability

Reliability matters, especially for time-sensitive projects. Look for:

• Clear turnaround time commitments
• Positive customer reviews
• Error-free reproduction
• Consistent color quality throughout large jobs
• Professional, knowledgeable staff

FedEx Office notes that “depending on quantity, most orders are ready the same day for in-store pick up if ordered before noon CST”, which can be important information when you need your copies quickly.

Price Comparison Tips

To get the best value:

• Compare per-copy prices between different providers
• Ask about volume discounts for larger quantities
• Check if the price includes basic finishing (collating, stapling)
• Look for current promotions or coupons
• Consider membership programs that offer discounts

Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value if the quality suffers or if you encounter service problems.

Affordable Color Copying

Finding affordable color copying services requires knowing how to get the best deals without sacrificing quality.

Volume Discounts

Most printing services offer significant discounts as quantity increases. The per-page price for 500 copies is typically much lower than for 50 copies. Consider:

• Combining multiple small jobs into one larger order
• Printing in bulk when you know you’ll need copies over time
• Sharing an order with colleagues who need similar materials
• Asking about price breaks at specific quantity levels

Paper Selection

Paper choice significantly impacts both price and quality:

• Standard 20 lb. bond paper is the most economical option
• Mid-weight papers (24-28 lb.) offer better durability for a small price increase
• Specialty papers like glossy, cardstock, or textured varieties cost more
• Colored papers may cost more than white

Choose the simplest paper that meets your needs to keep costs down.

Seasonal Promotions

Many printing services offer special pricing during certain times:

• Back-to-school season (August-September)
• Small business week/month promotions
• January (when businesses often order marketing materials)
• End-of-quarter sales to meet business targets

Sign up for email notifications from print shops to learn about these limited-time offers.

Print Shop for Color Copies

When choosing a print shop specifically for color copies, several factors should influence your decision.

Location and Hours

Consider:

• Proximity to your home or workplace
• Parking availability
• Business hours that accommodate your schedule
• Whether they offer online ordering with in-store pickup

A slightly more distant shop might be worth the trip if their prices or quality are significantly better.

Equipment and Capabilities

Not all print shops have the same equipment. Ask about:

• The type and age of their color printers/copiers
• Maximum resolution capabilities
• Ability to handle specialty papers
• The range of finishing options available

Shops with newer equipment typically produce better results with more consistent color.

Staff Expertise

Experienced staff can make a significant difference:

• They can recommend the right paper for your project
• They spot potential issues before they become problems
• They know how to adjust settings for optimal color reproduction
• They can suggest cost-saving alternatives

A brief conversation with staff can often reveal their level of knowledge and helpfulness.

Color Copy Near Me

Finding convenient color copy services in your local area is easier than ever with modern technology.

Using Online Search

To find local options:

• Search for “color copies near me” on your preferred search engine
• Look at customer reviews to gauge quality and service
• Check business websites for listed services and prices
• Call to verify current pricing and turnaround times

Remember that the closest option isn’t always the best – compare a few before deciding.

Mobile Apps and Online Ordering

Many printing services now offer:

• Mobile apps for uploading documents
• Online ordering systems
• Digital file submission
• Order tracking
• Prepayment options

These features make the process more convenient and often faster.

Membership Programs

For frequent printing needs, look into:

• Store rewards programs
• Business discount programs
• Educational or non-profit discounts
• Monthly subscription services for regular printing

These programs can significantly reduce your costs over time.

Making Your Decision

With so many options for color copies, consider these key factors when making your final decision:

1. Quantity – For larger quantities (100+ copies), online services typically offer the best value. For smaller jobs, local options may be more practical.
2. Timeline – Need copies today? Office supply stores, shipping centers, and local print shops are your best bet. Can you wait a few days? Online services will save you money.
3. Quality requirements – For presentations, marketing materials, or anything client-facing, prioritize quality. For internal documents or drafts, more affordable options may suffice.
4. Budget – If cost is your primary concern, compare prices between online services and take advantage of bulk pricing.
5. Convenience – Sometimes paying a bit more locally makes more sense than dealing with shipping or traveling across town.

By weighing these factors based on your specific needs, you’ll find the perfect balance of quality, affordability, and convenience for your color copying project. Whether you choose a national chain, local business, or online service, knowing your options empowers you to make the best choice every time you need color copies.