There are many differences between inkjet and lasers printers, but the
biggest one is of course the technology. The process used for printing
is completely different. Laser printers work by projecting an image on a
drum, which picks up toner particles only in the areas that need to be
printed. The paper is then rolled over the coated drum to transfer the
image. An inkjet printer uses ink from printer cartridges,
which is squirted onto the paper through tiny nozzles.



Laser printers are generally considered more professional than inkjet
printers, and are usually the printer of choice for larger businesses.
The laser technology is capable of delivering a cleaner, crisper image
than is possible with inkjet printers. Laser printers offer a higher
resolution print, which provides a more professional look.



Laser printers are also faster than inkjet printers. This increased
speed is due to the fact that the heads of an inkjet printer must move
back and forth across the paper repeatedly in order to cover the entire
print area. With a laser printer, on the other hand, the paper only has
to be rolled over the drum to pick up the image.



As for cost, inkjet printers are cheaper to buy. However, the cost of
printer cartridges over time eats up any savings. Most laser printers
are more economical in the long run if you consider the cost of toner
per page compared to the cost of ink per page in an inkjet printer.
However, smaller companies and individuals may not do enough printing to
recoup the initial investment of a laser printer through cost savings
on ink.



Printer maintenance is really minimal with either style of printer. A
laser printer requires an occasional cleaning, which can be done with a
lint-free cloth and a little bit of rubbing alcohol. Inkjet printers may
need to have their heads aligned or cleaned, which can be done through
the software interface or by pressing a button on the printer itself.



Both laser printers and inkjet printers are easy to install and use.
Like most other hardware devices available today, they are usually plug
and play. Although laser printers are more expensive up front, they beat
inkjet printers for quality and speed, and have a lower cost per print
which makes up for the difference in price over the life of the printer.




Australian Foundation