A printer is a device that takes digital text files and/or images and prints them on paper or another media. Printers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be connected to a computer either directly via wire (such as USB) or wirelessly (such as through Wi-Fi).
Many printers use an impact printing system, which involves the mechanical hammering of raised immovable type through an inked ribbon. This was the original method of printing, invented in the 1800s by Charles Babbage for his Difference Engine. Other types of printers include dot matrix printers, which rely on a sequence of pins on the print head that emerge to form a character. More recent types of printers employ non-impact systems, such as laser or inkjet printing.
Most modern printers require special software installed on a computer that sends the commands needed to print a document or image. This is called a printer driver, and it typically runs quietly in the background until something goes wrong. Whether it’s a software update that corrupts the driver or a misunderstanding of page size sent to the printer, a faulty printer driver can result in documents printed with hieroglyphics or even completely unintelligible text.
Printers can be purchased from a number of retailers, including local dealers and major chains. Some people prefer to visit a familiar store like Staples, while others find the convenience of shopping online more appealing. Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to select a printer that has a high customer satisfaction rating and a warranty policy that protects your investment.
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Portable Printer Wireless for Travel, Small Bluetooth Thermal Inkless Printer Support 8.5×11" US Letter Thermal Paper, Mobile Printing for Office, Car, Home, Compatible with iOS, Andorid & Laptop
$64.99 (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.)
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – The Ideal Basic Home Printer - Black, Medium
$229.00 (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.)
Miouca Label Maker Machine with Tape - Mini Sticker Printer Bluetooth Label Printer for Home Office Organization, Portable Thermal Sticker Maker Print Pod with Multiple Templates for Phone(White)
$29.99 (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.)
HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One Printer w/3 Months of Instant Ink for Free, Copy, Smart Advance Scan, Fax, 2-Sided Prints, 2-Sided Scan, A Printer-for-Small Medium Business (Renewed)
$158.00 (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.)
Canon PIXMA TS6420a All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer [Print, Copy, Scan], Works with Alexa
$113.99 (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.)
Fitrobust Portable Printer Wireless for Travel, Bluetooth Thermal Printer Supports 8.5 x 11 Inch Thermal Paper, Inkless Compatible with iOS, Android, Laptop for Office, Car and Home
$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.)