A printer is a device that prints text or images on flat media such as paper. Printers can be used for a variety of purposes including making hard copies of documents, photos, or other data stored on a computer. They can also be used to print receipts for online purchases or other transactions.
A basic printer uses a print head that scans across the page and imprints minuscule dots. Different types of printers use different methods to create these dots. Some of the most popular printers use ink, while others use heat or laser technology to produce their printed output.
Most modern printers are connected to computers using a serial or USB connection. Older printers used a parallel Centronics interface that required a 36-pin plug. Today’s printers may come with built-in memory that can be expanded to improve performance or to support large or high-resolution image formats.
To print a document, the software sends instructions to the printer via a special file format. The printer driver translates these instructions into a language that the printer can understand – the printer hardware then executes those instructions to produce the print.
Some printers employ the “razor and blades” business model, in which they sell the devices at cost and make their profits on ink cartridges, paper or other replacement parts. This can lead to legal disputes regarding the right of third parties to manufacture and sell compatible replacements. For example, many companies sell ink cartridges that can be used in Xerox-brand printers.
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=Printer+Stuff|What+Is+a+Printer%3F&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_7ee632535925409502a39d89735bf2c3
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.)
Phomemo Upgraded Portable Printer with Touchscreen, M832D Bluetooth Wireless Thermal Inkless Printer, Supports 8.5"x11" US Letter & A4, Compatible with iOS, Android, PC for Travel, Black
$99.99 (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.)
ORGBRO Label Maker Machine with Tape, X1 Portable Bluetooth Mini Label Printer, Support Pre-Cut & Continuous Label, Wireless Small Label Makers with Versatile App for School Home Office Organization
$14.99 (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.)
yanxio Portable Printer, Portable Printers Wireless for Travel, Inkless-Thermal-Small-Printer, Support A4&A5 & 8.5 x 11inch Thermal Papers, Support iOS, Android, Windows (with 3 Roll Papers & Case)
$59.99 (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.)
SUPVAN E10 Bluetooth Label Maker Machine with Tape, Continuous Waterproof Label, Versatile App with 35 Fonts and 1k+ Icons, Inkless Labeler for Home, Kitchen, School, Office Organization, Green
$17.99 (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.)
Rongta Bluetooth Label Maker Machine with Tape, Thermal Label Printer for Office, Small Business Essentials, Home Organization, Portable Inkless Sticker Label Maker with 2x1.18 inch Labels-150pcs
$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.)