Producing large-scale visuals and prints is a dynamic procedure requiring different machines and printers. Different industries use wide-format printers and plotters to print business plans, maps, and other visual elements. Large paper rolls are used for plotters and wide-format printers to print images and other business documents. However, one might ask, what is the difference between a wide-format printer and a plotter? We will answer this question here. This post will uncover the key differences between a wide format and a plotter printer. Keep walking with us to learn more!
Differences between wide format and plotter printer:
A wide-format printer uses inkjet or laser technology to print on large paper rolls, whereas a plotter uses a pen or blade to create images on paper. Both these devices are widely used in the industry, catering to the different needs of different organizations. These two machines have certain differences, and knowing about them is essential. How do you know if you need a particular device? You better assess your needs first and then dive deep into the key differences between a plotter and a wide-format printer. Here are a few differentiating points you should remember.
1. Print quality:
When discussing print quality, there is a considerable difference between a plotter and a wide-format printer. Plotter printers are known for producing high-quality prints and specific, tricky cut traces. Since plotter printers always use vector images, the quality of print jobs is least affected by the file size and type.
Wide format printers can produce jobs of various qualities, depending on the print size and definition. The reason that documents wide format printers use have pixels, a picture with a low pixel would seem distorted when revealed on a big sheet of paper. As far as image quality is concerned, a plotter will outsmart a wide-format printer!
2. Print cost:
The cost could be another differentiating factor between these two devices. When printing large documents and files, you require a faster machine, and a wide-format printer is quicker than a plotter. Therefore, a wide-format printer is a winner as a plotter takes longer and costs more to print a specific job. Organizations seeking to save and cut costs on printer tasks should contact printer rental Abu Dhabi companies to rent a budget-friendly printer!
On the other hand, a plotter with a vinyl cutter – printing images on vinyl in simple colors using blades – could be more budget-friendly. Businesses that want to print vinyl signs could opt for these devices as they require fewer colors.
3. Printing speed:
Talking about printing speeds, both devices can cater to your needs. Older plotter devices used pens to produce high-quality prints and images. It was a time-consuming process until the new technology took over. Modern-day plotter printers use technology that allows them to print faster than their previous counterparts. Moreover, the faster processing time makes them better than their previous versions.
On the other hand, wide-format printers are even faster in speed. These devices are used to print many jobs within no time. These devices could make more sense for companies and enterprises that need fast printing.
4. Applications:
Plotters and wide-format printers are used for different applications. It is another differentiating factor between these two devices. Plotter printers use vector images – images made from point-to-point lines – which are used for various purposes. These include technical drawings where more detailed images are required. Here are a few sectors that use plotter printers most often:
- Product designing companies
- Engineering companies
- Architecture and construction
- Sign-making companies
On the contrary, wide-format printers could be used for all types of printing jobs. Posters, banners, and high-resolution images are the common products of wide-format printers. The following industries need these devices the most.
- Graphic designing agencies
- Art studios
- Photographers
- Entertainment studios
5. Resolution:
When it comes to resolution, plotter printers will win the race. Why? It is because the DPI (dots per inch) measurement of plotter printers is far better than wide-format printers. A plotter can print up to 1440 dpi, whereas a wide-format printer can only hit 600 dpi. Isn’t it a considerable difference? It could also be a deciding factor for companies seeking a better printing dpi.
Vector images never change or compress image quality, no matter the size. Therefore, plotter printers are always best for high-resolution prints. Do you want to rent a high-resolution printer for your office? It would be best to contact printer rental Abu Dhabi companies and rent a perfect device from them.
Enhance your print quality with a better printer!
A printer can make all the difference when you seek a better resolution and quality. Going for the least- expensive device will never help you! Therefore, always choose the best printer for your office to enhance the print resolution and quality. Contact reliable printer rental companies in your town and browse their collection of offerings for businesses and homes!
