Understanding Inkjet Printers
It should come as no surprise that an inkjet printer uses ink, but how do they actually work? Inkjet printers have tiny, microscopic nozzles that spray the ink onto a page. The ink then forms dots, which in turn, create a letter, symbol, or even an image. The number of dots determines the resolution, or quality, produced by an inkjet printer. More dots equates to a higher resolution, which is measured by dpi, or dots per inch.
Inkjet cartridges utilize a printhead that has nozzles, which is how the ink makes its way onto the paper. Printer cartridges are required for inkjet printers. Most printers include a starter set to get you going. Still, you’ll need to purchase replaceable or refillable cartridges and replace them as needed, depending on how much you print.
If you need to print documents or images in color, you’ll need the primary shades of cyan, yellow, and magenta. Together, these three colors can produce other colors.
The advantages of purchasing an inkjet printer over a laser revolve primarily around initial costs and use. Overall, the initial cost of inkjet printers is lower than lasers, and they do a better job of blending colors. For low to medium volume printing, and when color printing is a necessity, inkjet printers are best. Plus, they tend to be smaller and easier to maintain than laser printers.
Color inkjet printers are available in a variety of price points, including low cost options like HP Deskjets and Epson EcoTanks.
