FAQs | What is the difference between ink jet and laser printers?

5. What is the difference between ink jet and laser printers?

The most significant difference is obvious, price.  Inkjets, for the most part, are relatively inexpensive compared to a laser printer.  However, laser printers are now becoming more cost effective and not as expensive as they used to be.  The technology involved in an inkjet printer is similar to writing with a pen.  Basically, it is putting ink on paper.

Laser printers use a powder (toner) which is then heated (by the fuser) and fuses the toner powder to the paper.  Laser printers produce a higher quality print for color and monochrome printers.  Laser printers are usually much faster with the page per minute print jobs.

When buying a laser printer you should consider your monthly usage for color and black as the laser toner is generally more expensive initially.  In the long run, your cost per page will be less with a laser printer compared to an inkjet printer.

Laser printers generally last much longer than your inkjet printers and have fewer problems in regards to paper jamming.  Inkjets are generally not manufactured to be repaired because of their inexpensive cost and the inability to get replacement parts.  The manufacturer of inkjets want you to buy a new machine rather than fix the old one.  Of course the new machine will not use the same ink.  You will then be required to  buy new ink which is another added cost.  We recommend inkjet printing for the person or office that has a need for color printing that is minimal.  We offer free advice if you are considering buying a new copier, printer or fax machine.  Please call us before you make your purchase.

Call toll free 877-933-3366.