Printer is a peripheral device that takes digital data from a computer and converts it into a hard copy using ink or other printing methods. The quality of the printed material depends on the type of printer and can include text, graphics or images. Printers can also print onto plastic sheets. Charles Babbage first proposed the mechanical printer in 1822 but modern inkjet technology was introduced in the 1950s and laser printers were invented in the 1970s.
The printing technology is an important factor in the cost, speed, quality and durability of the prints. The various types of printers include thermal, dot matrix and impact printers that use heat to selectively melt or freeze regions on the paper to form characters and lines of monochrome prints, and inkjet and laser printers that utilise droplets of liquid ink to recreate digital image and text output on paper or other flat media.
Some printers require a dedicated data cable such as USB but most recent models can connect wirelessly to your local network via short-range radio like Bluetooth, VLAN or WiFi or on a standalone basis without a computer using memory cards or other portable storage devices. Some printers can even produce photos and 3D prints.
When choosing a printer, you should consider how often and under what conditions the printer will be used. Buying a printer from a major retailer may seem convenient but the price of cartridges can be significantly higher than from local dealers. Also, major retailers do not build servicing pricing into the price of the printer which can make it difficult to budget for repairs. Local dealers often have service contracts with their customers and can help you determine which model is best for your needs.
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NIIMBOT Label Maker Machine Bluetooth Label Printer for School Home Office Organization, Wireless Mini Labeler D110 Upgraded Version, Label Machine with Label, White
$19.99 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing, Black & White Output | Includes Refresh Subscription Trial(1), Works with Alexa
$119.99 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
XenGro Mini Portable Sticker Printer, Mini Thermal Printer with 3 Rolls Paper, Bluetooth Inkless Printpods, Pocket Label Maker Suitable for Creative Kids DIY, Diaries, Photos, Study Notes -White
$24.99 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Nelko Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer, Wireless 4x6 Shipping Label Printer for Shipping Packages, Support Android, iPhone and Windows, Widely Used for Amazon, Ebay, Shopify (Black)
$69.99 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
NIIMBOT B21 Pro Label Maker, 300DPI HD Label Printer, Ideal for Notes,Photos, Study Graphics, Memo Maker,50x30mm Label,230Pcs(Black)
$75.99 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 24" - Large Format Printer, Poster & Plotter Printer, Automatic Roll & Cut Sheet Paper Feeder, Includes 280 ml of Ink, White
$749.00 (as of July 3, 2025 21:49 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)