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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Printer and Plotter?

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The main difference between a printer and a plotter lies in their function, speed, and the type of images they produce. Here are the key differences between the two:

  1. Function: A plotter is a device that receives commands from a computer and draws its picture on the page, while a printer is a device that prints texts and images on a page after receiving commands from a network.
  2. Reading Files: Plotters can read files in formats like DWG, CDR, and AI, while printers can read files in formats like JPG, TIFF, PDF, and BMP.
  3. Speed: Plotters generally work at slower speeds compared to printers, as they draw continuous lines.
  4. Output Quality: Plotters produce output in a format similar to vector graphics, while printers produce output in a format such as bitmap or pixels.
  5. Cost: Plotters are generally more expensive than printers.

In summary, plotters are used for producing hard copies of large graphs and designs on paper, such as engineering drawings, architectural plans, and construction maps. On the other hand, printers are used for printing text and images on a page, and they work faster than plotters.

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  • What is the Difference Between Printer and Plotter?
  • Comparative Table: Printer vs Plotter

    • Comparative Table: Printer vs Plotter

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a printer and a plotter:

    Feature Printer Plotter
    Definition A printer is a device that prints texts and images on a page after receiving commands from a computer or network. A plotter is a device that receives commands from the computer and then draws its picture on the page.
    Reading Files Printers can read files in formats like JPG, TIFF, PDF, and BMP. Plotters can read files in formats like DWG, CDR, and AI.
    Cost-Effectiveness Printers are more cost-effective and cheaper compared to plotters. Plotters are less cost-effective and more expensive compared to printers.
    Continuous Lines Printers cannot draw continuous lines, as they print one line at a time. Plotters can draw continuous lines.
    Speed Printers work at faster speeds compared to plotters. Plotters work at slower speeds compared to printers.
    Output Format Printers give the output file data in a format such as bitmap or pixels. Plotters give the output in a format that is similar to a vector graphic.
    Software Printers commonly use software like Photoshop and other image-editing programs. Plotters commonly use software like Adobe Illustrator, Corel, Flexi, and CAD.
    Examples Examples of printers include inkjet and laser printers. Examples of plotters include devices used in architectural, engineering, and construction industries for producing high-quality drawings such as blueprints, circuit diagrams, maps, and hatch patterns.

    In summary, plotters are designed for drawing high-quality, continuous lines and are used in industries that require precise, large-format prints. On the other hand, printers are more versatile and cost-effective, suitable for general use, printing both text and images at faster speeds.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.