why it matters whether you use an inkjet or laser printer
Why Does It Matter Whether You Use an Inkjet or Laser Printer?
When printing your own self-adhesive labels, it’s essential that your labels are compatible with your printer type . Using the wrong label material can result in poor print quality—or even damage to your printer. Here’s why printer compatibility matters. All of our label products clearly state whether they are suitable for laser printers, inkjet printers, or both. While some labels are designed to work with either printing method, many are specifically manufactured for one type of printer only. Understanding the difference can help you achieve the best possible print results and avoid costly mistakes.
Why Printer Compatibility Is So Important
Laser and inkjet printers use very different printing technologies. Because of this, labels intended for each printer type are manufactured using materials that are optimised for that specific process.
Using the correct label material ensures:
Sharp, high-quality prints
Proper ink or toner adhesion
Long-lasting, professional results
Protection for your printer
Laser Printing vs Inkjet Printing: What’s the Difference?
Laser Printing
Laser printers use static electricity to attract toner particles, forming an image on a drum. The toner is then transferred onto the label and permanently bonded using heat and pressure.
Inkjet Printing
Inkjet printers spray tiny droplets of liquid ink from a printhead directly onto the label surface. The ink then dries to create the final image.
Because these processes are so different, the materials used for each type of label must also differ.
How Do Label Materials Differ?
Laser-compatible labels are designed to withstand high temperatures and allow toner to fuse securely onto the surface without melting, warping, or curling.
Inkjet-compatible labels have a specially coated, slightly absorbent surface. This allows the ink to soak in just enough to dry quickly and accurately, resulting in sharper images and higher print resolution.
Each material is carefully engineered to work with its intended printer type for optimal results.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Labels?
- Using the incorrect label material can cause a range of issues.
-
Best-Case Scenario
Poor print quality
Smudging, smearing, or dull colours
Cracking or flaking toner -
For example:
Laser labels used in an inkjet printer won’t absorb ink properly, leading to smears and long drying times.
Inkjet labels used in a laser printer won’t bond with toner correctly, causing the print to crack or peel away. -
Worst-Case Scenario
Labels may shrink, curl, or warp
Adhesive failure
Damage to internal printer components
In extreme cases, using incompatible materials can result in printer damage, leading to expensive repairs or replacement.
Always Check Label Compatibility
To avoid these issues, you should always confirm that your labels are compatible with your printer type before printing.
Printer compatibility information is available on:
- Our List of Products page
- Individual Range Pages
- Each Product Page
Taking a moment to check this information ensures professional results and protects your equipment.
Quick FAQs
Posted in: Customer Case Study
If you would like to find out more about our cost-effective, short-run labelling and packaging options, for personalisation and promotion. Please contact our customer care team, who will be happy to discuss your requirements and provide advice on the options available.
