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A laser printer is a computer printer that uses a laser beam and an electrostatic process to produce high-quality text and graphics by transferring toner (dry powder ink) onto paper. The laser "paints" an image onto a light-sensitive drum, which then attracts toner. This toner is transferred to paper and fused by heat, resulting in a clear and durable print.

How it works

Charging the drum: A laser beam "paints" a pattern of charged dots onto a rotating, light-sensitive drum.
Attracting toner: Toner, a dry powder ink, is applied to the drum and sticks to the charged areas.
Transferring to paper: The toner is transferred from the drum to the paper as it passes through.
Fusing the image: A heating element, called a fuser, permanently fuses the toner to the paper.

Key characteristics

High quality: Laser printers are known for producing sharp, high-resolution text and graphics.
High speed: They typically print faster than other types of printers, especially for text documents.
Non-impact: The process does not physically strike the paper, making it a "non-impact" printer.
Cost-effective for high volume: While the initial cost is often higher than inkjet printers, the cost per page is often lower for high-volume printing because toner cartridges last longer.
Toner does not dry out: Unlike liquid ink, toner powder does not dry out if the printer is not used for a while.