Impact printers and non-impact printers are two types of printers that differ in the way they produce printed output. The main differences between the two are:
Printing Method: Impact printers produce printed output by physically striking an inked ribbon against paper or other printing material, while non-impact printers do not physically touch the printing material.
Noise: Impact printers are generally much louder than non-impact printers due to the sound made by the printing mechanism striking the paper. Non-impact printers are much quieter.
Print Quality: Impact printers generally produce lower quality print compared to non-impact printers. The text may appear smudged or the images may appear pixelated. Non-impact printers produce high-quality print, with sharp text and clear images.
Speed: Impact printers are generally slower than non-impact printers due to the physical motion required to strike the paper. Non-impact printers can print much faster, producing high volumes of output quickly.
Cost: Impact printers are typically less expensive than non-impact printers due to their simpler technology and lower quality output. Non-impact printers are more expensive, but provide better print quality and faster output.
Examples of impact printers include dot matrix printers and line printers, while examples of non-impact printers include inkjet printers, laser printers, and thermal printers.
In summary, the main differences between impact printers and non-impact printers are the printing method, noise, print quality, speed, and cost. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user, such as the desired print quality, speed, and budget.
