A printer, sometimes known as a computer printer, is electronic equipment that receives text files or pictures from a computer and transmits them to media such as paper or film. When you decide to buy a printer, the next thing that comes to mind is which printer to buy: a laser printer or an inkjet printer. The answer is that each has varying characteristics that will meet your needs.
Chart Summary
| LASER PRINTER | INKJET PRINTER |
| Portable and can be stored easily |
| Printing is slow, and the paper needs refilling |
Getty images/EyeEm/ Tascha Rassadornyindee/ EyeEm
Definition
Laser printers employ xerography-like technology to print high-resolution text and images. It uses data from a computer to swiftly switch on and off a laser beam on an electrostatically charged light-sensitive disk. The drum then draws toner to places that are not exposed to light. The toner is then fused to the paper by hot rollers running over a belt. Color laser printers require four toner cartridges: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK).
An inkjet printer is a computer accessory that prints tangible copies of text documents or photographs by spraying ink droplets onto paper. A standard inkjet printer can print color copies at 1200 x 1440 dpi resolution. Inkjet devices are classified into three categories. The continuous inkjet printer shoots a constant stream of electrically charged ink drops toward the surface, and unwanted drips are deflected into a gutter to create the desired impression. The drop-on-demand inkjet printer shoots ink at the surface spots required to make the chosen picture.
Inkjet vs. Laser Printer
When compared to inkjet printing, laser printing is quicker and has higher quality. Toner in laser printers, on the other hand, is more durable than ink dyes in inkjet printers. The primary distinction between laser and ink printers is the type of cartridges each printer employs. Toner cartridges are used by laser printers, whereas inkjet printers use ink cartridges.
The initial investment difference between a laser and an ink printer can be significant, with laser printers being the more expensive alternative. Obtaining and refilling cartridges is another critical consideration, and toner replacements are generally costlier. Although ink cartridges are typically cheaper, they may require replacement more frequently.