The most basic question to ask when choosing a new printer is whether you should get a laser printer or inkjet printer. The results of laser and inkjet printers are both good if you buy the right model. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, which will be helpful to you in making your decision. Read our blog on inkjet printers in order to better understand and learn about them. Our blog on Canon vs HP printers will also help you choose a printer as per need.
Laser Printer vs Inkjet
Inkjet Vs. Laser Printer: Process
Inkjet printers work on liquid ink, which is deposited onto the page with the help of a print head. The print uses many micro nozzles and the ink droplets transfer to the paper. The laser generates an electrostatic charge to transfer toner in laser printers. Heat bonds this power to the surface.
Inkjet Vs. Laser Printer: Price
The cost difference between the two printer types is one of the most important factors. Inkjet printers like the Brother HL-2270DW are less expensive than laser printers. Their technology differs from one another. Laser printers are complex devices and are therefore more expensive to manufacture. Inkjet printers tend to have a higher cost for ink replacement. The cost of printing black and white text on inkjet printers is around 5-10 cents per page. You can expect to pay up to 25 cents a page for color prints. Laser printers use more affordable toner cartridges. A laser printer can print black and white documents for less than 5 cents per page. The colored prints do not cost more than 15 cents per page. It is also easier to store toner cartridges, as they do not dry out when left out.
Printing Technology
The fundamental definition of printing is the same for inkjet and laser printers. The placement of letters and images on paper — the two systems do this in quite different ways.
Inkjet printers like Canon LBP6000 use liquid ink that is deposited on the paper by a print head. This contains dozens of micro-nozzles. It prints by splashing small ink drops onto the paper. Depending on whether the ink is dye or pigment-based. The ink can either affect the color of the paper or dry as a deposit on the paper's surface. Laser printers like HP LaserJet Pro M15w use toner, which is a powder.
Upfront Costs
Price plays a significant role in printer purchasing decisions. You may want certain features. The choice usually depends on your budget. The cost of inkjet printers is lower than laser printers. There is less complexity in the technology, and it is less expensive to manufacture. Most inkjet printers makers offer them at a loss. Buying a new printer like Brother MFC-J1205W is sometimes less expensive than buying a full set of fresh ink cartridges. Laser printers are rarely available for under $200, and even the most affordable ones cost $150 or more.
Inkjet Vs. Laser: Print Quality
Inkjet printers are good for printing photos and images. This is due to dye and pigment-based ink. Laser printers require compatible papers for the best graphics. The Epson WorkForce WF-3520 laser printer does a better job printing text than an inkjet printer, as the ink may bleed with the latter. Smearing and drying of ink generally take a few seconds.
Printer Speed
The printing speed of inkjet printers is slower, around 15 pages per minute. Laser printers, on the other hand, can print at speeds of up to 100 pages per minute. A laser printer’s faster speed makes it more suitable for use in an office setting.
Inkjet Vs. Laser: Printer Size
Compactness and portability are important while buying a printer and should be considered. Laser printers are generally larger and heavier. A small printer like the Canon Pixma TR150 is easier to fit if you have limited space. Laser printers have a large print drum and multifunction features that make them bulkier.
Key Takeaway
Inkjet printers are a better choice for occasional printing due to their low upfront costs. Inkjet printers are better for graphics and laser printers are better for text. An inkjet printer is a usually smaller and more compact than a laser printer. Our hope is that by comparing these parameters, you will be able to make an informed purchasing decision.
Our blog on most reliable printer lists top printer brands that offer high-quality printers, reading through will help you choose the best one as per your needs. For more buying options, head over to BestViewsReviews. We rate and review the best inkjet and laser printers based on their quality, performance, and durability.