Inkjet vs Laser: What’s the perfect printer?

Written by ACT Solutions

What is the perfect printer? The answer will be different for different people. We all need to print documents from time to time, but many of us also like to get creative with crafts or to print photographs, children's homework and student projects.

Many of us have set up businesses at home or a small office, working from there at least some of the time, so also need the ability to create professional-looking mono or colour business documents.

Which printer type is the right choice for you depends largely on what printing tasks you most commonly require.

It will differ based on whether you print text-heavy business documents, photo prints, or a balance of both; on plain paper, glossy photo paper, or even fine art papers; mainly monochrome or full-colour; and single prints or larger runs.

Other factors to consider might include printing speed, the physical size of the printer, the biggest print size it can produce, and the total cost per print including ink/toner and paper.

Let's take a closer look at the main differences between the two types, and some of the leading models in each range, to help you pick your perfect print

Inkjet printers are well suited to photo printing, with accurate colour reproduction and typically richer colours than laser printers. Inkjets tend to be more compact, making them a good choice where space is a consideration. They often have lower upfront costs, and the refillable ink tanks mean greater efficiency and lower running costs than other cartridge or toner solutions.

Laser printers are ideal when business documents and other text-heavy printing are the priority. Laser printers are cost-effective for bulk printing and greater print yields, with fast printing times – sometimes almost half that of comparable inkjets – and no risk of smudging and no bleed-through when printing double-sided.