What is the difference between an impact and a non impact printer?

Answer 1

The difference between impact and non - impact printer is as follows:

Impact printer / Dot-matrix Printer

Non impact Printer / Laser Printer

1. It prints characters or images by striking print hammer or wheel against an inked ribbon.

1. It prints characters and images without striking the papers.

2. Its speed is slower.

2. Its speed is faster.

3. Its printing quality is lower.

3. Its printing quality is higher.

4. It normally uses continuous paper sheet.

4. Its normally uses individual paper sheet.

5. It generates noise during printing.

5. It does not generate noise during printing.

6. It uses inked ribbon for printing.

6. It uses toner or cartridge for painting.

7. It is less expensive.

7. It is more expensive.

8. Dot matrix is an impact printer.

8. Laser printer is a non-impact printer.

Answer 2

Non-impact printers are quieter and produce better quality print than impact printers.

non-impact printers, the characters and images are form without any direct physical contact of the paper. Impact printers are noisily because of the hitting activity.

Non-impact printers are usually more expensive than impact printers.

In non-impact printers the text or image is formed without any physical contact of the paper and the printer head. But in impact printers, the paper and the printer head come in contact and hence the text or image is formed.