Buying Guide for the Best Printer For Cardstocks
When choosing a printer for cardstocks, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance and quality for your needs. Cardstock is thicker and heavier than regular paper, so not all printers can handle it effectively. Understanding the key specs will help you make an informed decision and find a printer that meets your requirements for printing on cardstock.Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the printer's ability to manage different types and sizes of paper, including cardstock. This spec is crucial because not all printers can handle the thickness and weight of cardstock. Look for printers that explicitly state they can handle heavy paper or cardstock, usually in the range of 60-110 lb (pound) weight. If you plan to print on very thick cardstock, ensure the printer supports higher weights. Your need for paper handling will depend on the type of projects you plan to undertake, such as greeting cards, business cards, or invitations.
Print Quality (Resolution)Print quality, measured in dots per inch (DPI), determines how sharp and detailed your prints will be. This is particularly important for cardstock printing, where you might want high-quality images and text. Printers with a higher DPI (1200 DPI or more) will produce more detailed and crisp prints, which is ideal for professional-looking projects. If your projects require high detail and vibrant colors, opt for a higher DPI. For simpler, less detailed prints, a lower DPI (600 DPI) might suffice.
Ink or Toner TypeThe type of ink or toner a printer uses can affect the quality and durability of your prints on cardstock. Dye-based inks are generally more vibrant but can be less durable, while pigment-based inks are more resistant to fading and smudging. Laser printers use toner, which is typically more durable and better for high-volume printing. If you need vibrant colors and high-quality images, an inkjet printer with pigment-based inks might be best. For high-volume, durable prints, consider a laser printer.
Print SpeedPrint speed, measured in pages per minute (PPM), indicates how quickly a printer can produce prints. This is important if you need to print large quantities of cardstock quickly. Printers with higher PPM are more efficient for bulk printing. If you frequently print large batches of cardstock, look for a printer with a higher PPM. For occasional or small-scale printing, a lower PPM might be acceptable.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options refer to the ways you can connect your printer to your computer or other devices. Common options include USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Some printers also offer mobile printing capabilities through apps or cloud services. This spec is important for convenience and flexibility in your printing setup. If you need to print from multiple devices or locations, look for a printer with Wi-Fi or mobile printing options. For a more straightforward setup, a USB connection might be sufficient.
Duplex PrintingDuplex printing is the ability of a printer to print on both sides of the paper automatically. This feature can save time and paper, especially for double-sided projects like brochures or booklets. If you frequently need double-sided prints, a printer with automatic duplex printing will be very beneficial. For single-sided projects, this feature may not be as critical.