A printer is a device that accepts electronic data and prints it on paper or other physical media. Depending on the type of printer, this can include text, numbers or graphics. Printers may also be used to print items like envelopes, transparencies or labels. They can be used in schools, businesses and homes.
Computer printers receive electronic data from a host (computer) and then create printed documents. There are many different types of printers, but the most common are inkjet and laser printers. Inkjet printers use droplets of liquid ink to produce printed pages. Laser printers use a rotating drum that transfers toner to paper. Both of these technologies have several advantages and disadvantages over older methods of printing.
The first mechanical printer was invented by Charles Babbage for use with his Difference Engine in the 1800s. He was followed by a series of inventors who developed different types of printers to handle more tasks than the original.
Modern printers are generally fast devices that can print pages in a few seconds. The print speed is usually measured in a page per minute (ppm). Historically, speeds were measured in characters per minute or lines per minute for line and drum printers.
Most printers can be hooked up to a network. These are often used in business offices for sharing. There are a number of different ways to connect a printer to a computer, including USB (universal serial bus) and Wi-Fi interfaces. Some are even compatible with Bluetooth. There are also legacy connections like Ethernet or parallel port. Many sellers offer maintenance and support plans for an additional fee. These can be offered based on your printer’s usage, or at a fixed yearly rate.
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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.)
DETONGER Label Maker Machine with Tape P0 Rechargeable Bluetooth Mini Label Printer Portable Small Thermal Labeling Machine Easy to Use for Home Office School Organization Battery Included White
$18.99 (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.)
Miouca Label Maker Machine with Tape - 14 Sizes Mini Sticker Printer Bluetooth Label Printer for Home Office Organization, Portable Thermal Sticker Maker Print Pod with Multiple Templates for Phone
$22.47 (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.)
iDPRT Portable Sticker Maker Machine with 1 Roll Sticker Paper, Mini Printer Efficiently and Quickly, Thermal Printer for Study Notes, Pictures, DIY, Label, Free App with Multiple Templates, Grey
$7.98 (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.)
iDPRT Mini Sticker Maker Portable Printer with 1 Roll Sticker Paper - Bluetooth Inkless Printers for Study Notes, Pictures, DIY, Label, iOS & Android Free App with Multiple Templates, Grey
$9.99 (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 DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier, Best-for-Home, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included (588S6A)
$79.99 (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.)