What Are the Two Main Characteristics of Inkjet Printers That Affect Image Quality?

Ink and paper contribute dramatically to the quality of the printed image or text.

Ink-jet printers create text and images by small nozzles spraying ink onto printer paper. The ink absorbs into the paper at different amounts and levels of crispness depending on the paper and ink quality.

Paper

Paper that is labeled "bright" will provide an understandably brighter image. Paper labeled specifically for ink-jet is also recommended for correct absorbency. Read the manual or visit the manufacturers website to see what paper they recommend with your printer. If you would like to keep your images and text for years and are concerned with fading, use archival paper.

Ink

Ink comes in two forms, dye based ink and pigment based ink. You generally cannot choose which one you'd like to use after purchasing a printer, as the cartridges are already programmed to use one type, but you can use the information when buying your next printer. Pigment ink is generally more archival, fast drying and bleeds less. Dye based ink has a wider range of colors, can be brighter and is less expensive.

Choosing Paper and Ink for Your Needs

Printing goals can range from brightness and color correctness to the print's ability to stay true without fading for many years. Search for paper that suits your needs including the information provided by the manufacturer. For ink, if you are printing large color pictures, it may be advisable to purchase a printer using dye ink. Otherwise, pigment ink may offer more of what most everyday printers would need.

References

• Ink Guides: Printer Ink
• Ink Guides: Printing Quality
• Inkjet Cartridges: How Do Inkjet Printers Work
• Ink Guides: Inkjet Photo Paper