Types of Printers: From Old to Modern Printers Explained Simply

Published: 19 Jun 2025

Printers are machines that turn digital files into printed pages. However, not all printers function in the same way. That’s why we have different types of printers for various tasks, such as printing photos, documents, or labels.

In this guide, I’ll help you understand each type so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Table of Content

Types of Printers

Printers come in many types to match different needs. Some print simple text, while others create 3D models or high-quality photos. Knowing both the types and classification of printers helps you choose the right one.

Quick list of various printer types:

Dot Matrix Printer (Old impact printers)
Daisy Wheel Printer (Old impact printers)
Line Printer (Old impact printers)
Chain Printer (Old impact printers)
Inkjet Printer
Laser Printer
Thermal Printer
LED Printer
3D Printer
Plotter
Photo Printer
Wireless Printer
Portable Printer
Label Printer
Card Printer
Solid Ink Printer
EcoTank Printer
Cloud Printer
Wide Format Printer
A3 Printer
Network Printer
Virtual Printer
Industrial Printer
Multifunction Printer (MFP)

Let’s explore the above-mentioned different printer types with easy examples.

1. Dot Matrix Printer

A dot matrix printer uses tiny metal pins to form letters and images. You can still find them in banks and ticket counters because they print carbon copies. They are noisy but cheap to run and useful for simple forms.

2. Daisy Wheel Printer

This printer works like a typewriter by spinning a wheel with characters on it. It prints one letter at a time and gives very sharp text. This old printer type is outdated now.

3. Line Printer

Line printers print one complete line of text in a single stroke. Large offices once used them to print daily reports or logs. They are much faster than daisy wheel printers but not suitable for graphics.

4. Chain Printer

A chain printer uses a rotating metal chain with characters on it to print at high speed. Early data centers utilized these printers to handle thousands of pages efficiently. They’re fast but limited to plain text printing.

5. Inkjet Printer

An inkjet printer sprays tiny droplets of ink on paper. It’s perfect for printing colorful photos or school projects. Many families use it at home for everyday tasks. I also have this printer type at my home.

6. Laser Printer

Laser printers use a laser beam and toner to print text and images. They print fast and stay sharp even after hundreds of pages. This is one of the main types of printers preferred by offices for large-volume printing.

7. Thermal Printer

Thermal printers use heat to print without the need for ink. ATMs, billing machines, and retail stores use them for receipts. They are fast and need low maintenance.

8. LED Printer

LED printers work similarly to laser printers, but they use LED lights instead of a laser beam. They have fewer moving parts, so they break less often—offices like them for smooth and reliable use.

9. 3D Printer

A 3D printer builds objects layer by layer using plastic or other materials. Designers and students use them to create models or tools. They’re great for learning and prototyping.

10. Plotter

Plotters draw large images, such as maps or blueprints. Architects and engineers use them to print detailed designs. They offer top-quality line work on large sheets.

11. Photo Printer

Photo printers print sharp, colorful images. Photographers and creatives use them to print studio-quality photos. They’re built for beauty, not speed.

12. Wireless Printer

Wireless printers connect over Wi-Fi, not cables. You can easily print from your phone or laptop. Great for homes with limited space.

13. Portable Printer

Portable printers are small and easy to carry. They’re handy for printing invoices or labels while traveling. Salespeople and field workers often use them.

14. Label Printer

Label printers print product tags or barcode stickers. Shops and warehouses use them to track stock. They’re fast, compact, and easy to reload.

15. Card Printer

Card printers make ID cards, visitor badges, or access passes. Schools and offices use them to create secure identity cards. They support color and black-and-white printing.

16. Solid Ink Printer

These printers use colorful wax-like ink sticks. They give bright prints with less packaging waste. They’re eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

17. EcoTank Printer

EcoTank printers come with refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges. They save money if you print in large quantities.

Home and office users love the low running costs.

18. Cloud Printer

Cloud printers enable you to print from anywhere with an internet connection. Remote teams and mobile users use them to share print jobs online. You need a login and an internet connection.

19. Wide Format Printer

Wide-format printers can print banners, posters, and big graphics. Designers and print shops use them for large-size projects. They support vibrant colors and high detail.

20. A3 Printer

An A3 printer handles paper sizes bigger than A4. It’s useful for printing charts, layouts, or classroom posters. Offices that need large printouts keep one handy.

21. Network Printer

Network printers connect to a shared office network. Many people can print from one machine. Offices use them to save space and reduce costs.

22. Virtual Printer

A virtual printer saves your file as a PDF instead of printing it on paper. It’s paperless, eco-friendly, and helpful in sending digital copies. Many people use it to save bills or forms.

23. Industrial Printer

Industrial printers are made for heavy printing in factories. They print on packaging, labels, or large runs of paper. Businesses that need high-speed, high-volume printing rely on them.

24. Multifunction Printer (MFP)

MFPs can print, scan, copy, and fax. One machine does it all, saving time and space.

Homes and offices love their all-in-one features.

Conclusion

So, guys, I am concluding the guide on the different types of printers. I hope you now clearly understand which printer suits your needs—whether it’s for school, the office, or business. I personally suggest starting with an inkjet or laser printer if you’re new to printing.

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FAQs – Various Types of Printers

Below are some frequently asked questions about printer types by beginners. If you have a question, feel free to ask in the comment section.

What are the 5 main types of printers?

The five main types of printers are inkjet, laser, thermal, dot matrix, and 3D printers. Each works differently and suits different needs. For example, inkjet printers are well-suited for photos, while laser printers are more suitable for fast office printing.

Which type of printer is best for home use?

Inkjet printers are great for home use. They handle homework, tickets, and photo printing easily. They’re affordable and work well for light printing needs.

What printer should I buy for office work?

A laser printer is best for office work. It prints fast, clean, and in high volume. Multifunction printers (MFPs) are also great, as they can scan, copy, and fax.

How is a dot matrix printer different from a laser printer?

A dot matrix printer uses pins to strike a ribbon and make marks on paper. It’s noisy and slow. A laser printer uses toner and a laser beam, giving clean and fast prints.

What is a thermal printer used for?

Thermal printers use heat to print on special paper. They’re common in shops, ATMs, and billing counters. They print fast and don’t need ink.

Are wireless printers better than wired ones?

Wireless printers are more flexible. You can print from your phone, tablet, or laptop without cables. They’re perfect for homes and shared spaces.

What is a 3D printer, and how does it work?

A 3D printer makes solid objects layer by layer from digital designs. It doesn’t use paper but plastic or resin. People use it in schools, labs, and design work.

Can I use one printer for all my needs?

Yes, a multifunction printer (MFP) can print, scan, copy, and even fax. It’s ideal if you want to save space and do many tasks with one device.

Which printer type saves the most ink?

EcoTank printers are made to save ink. They have refillable tanks instead of costly cartridges. You refill them with bottles, which lowers long-term costs.

What is the difference between impact and non-impact printers?

Impact printers hit the paper to print, like dot matrix or daisy wheel. Non-impact printers, like inkjet and laser, print without touching the paper. Non-impact printers are faster and quieter.