Plotter vs. Printer — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 20, 2023
A plotter is a specialized printing device that produces high-quality, large-scale graphics using a pen or similar drawing apparatus. A printer is a more general device that prints text and images on paper, often in smaller formats and sizes.
Difference Between Plotter and Printer
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A plotter is primarily designed to create high-precision, large-format graphics and designs, commonly used in architectural plans and engineering drawings. Printers, however, are more versatile devices that are typically used for printing text documents and smaller-scale graphics. Plotters use pens or similar apparatuses that draw directly on the paper, while printers use inkjet or laser technology to transfer ink or toner onto the paper.
When considering speed and efficiency, plotters usually take longer to produce an output. This is because they are designed for high precision. Printers, on the other hand, are engineered for speed and can churn out multiple pages of text and smaller graphics much faster. This makes printers more suitable for offices where high-speed document printing is essential.
The construction and size of plotters and printers also differ significantly. Plotters are generally larger and require more space due to their ability to produce large-scale outputs. Printers are generally more compact and fit easily into smaller workspaces, making them more accessible for home or office use.
Cost is another point of divergence between plotters and printers. Plotters are typically more expensive than printers due to their specialized functionality. The high-precision drawing mechanism is costlier to produce and maintain. Printers, being more ubiquitous, are generally more affordable and offer a broader range of price options to consumers.
Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Large-scale graphics
Text and small graphics
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Technology
Pen-based
Inkjet or laser
Speed
Slower
Faster
Size
Larger
Smaller
Cost
More expensive
More affordable
Compare with Definitions
Plotter
A device for drawing high-precision graphics.
The architecture firm used a plotter to produce detailed building plans.
Printer
A compact device for home or office document needs.
The printer fits neatly on my desk for everyday printing tasks.
Plotter
A large-format printer using a pen or similar instrument.
Engineers rely on a plotter to print large schematics.
Printer
A versatile machine for various printing tasks.
The printer can handle everything from documents to labels.
Plotter
A slow but highly accurate printing device.
Despite its slow speed, the plotter delivers unmatched precision.
Printer
A machine that uses inkjet or laser technology for printing.
The inkjet printer produced high-quality photos.
Plotter
A specialized device for producing vector graphics.
The plotter created intricate designs for the textile industry.
Printer
A high-speed device for producing multiple pages quickly.
The laser printer churned out fifty pages in under a minute.
Plotter
A small piece of ground, generally used for a specific purpose
A garden plot.
Printer
A person whose job or business is commercial printing.
Plotter
A measured area of land; a lot.
Printer
One that prints, especially one whose occupation is printing.
Plotter
A ground plan, as for a building; a diagram.
Printer
A device that prints text or graphics on paper.
Plotter
See graph1.
Printer
A 3D printer.
Plotter
The pattern or sequence of interrelated events in a work of fiction, as a novel or film.
Printer
One who makes prints.
Plotter
A secret plan to accomplish a hostile or illegal purpose; a scheme.
Printer
The operator of a printing press or the owner of a printing business; (metonymy) any printing business.
Plotter
To represent graphically, as on a chart
Plot a ship's course.
Printer
A device, usually attached to a computer, used to print text or images onto paper; an analogous device capable of producing three-dimensional objects.
Plotter
To locate (points or other figures) on a graph by means of coordinates.
Printer
One who prints; especially, one who prints books, newspapers, engravings, etc., a compositor; a typesetter; a pressman.
Plotter
To draw (a curve) connecting points on a graph.
Printer
Someone whose occupation is printing
Plotter
To write or develop the plot of
"I began plotting novels at about the time I learned to read" (James Baldwin).
Printer
(computer science) an output device that prints the results of data processing
Plotter
To form a plot for; prearrange secretly or deviously
Plot an assassination.
Printer
A machine that prints
Plotter
To form or take part in a plot; scheme
Were plotting for months before the attack.
Plotter
To write or develop the plot for a work of fiction
A good mystery writer must plot well.
Plotter
A person who plots.
Plotter
(computing) An output device that draws graphs and other pictorial images on paper, sometimes using attached pens.
Plotter
(navigation) An instrument used to mark or find the position of a vessel on a chart.
Plotter
(slang) An author who usually relies on a plan or outline to organize their story.
Antonyms: pantser (writing)
Plotter
One who plots or schemes; a contriver; a conspirator; a schemer.
Plotter
A planner who draws up a personal scheme of action
Plotter
A clerk who marks data on a chart
Plotter
A member of a conspiracy
Plotter
An instrument (usually driven by a computer) for drawing graphs or pictures
Plotter
A machine used for high-quality, large-scale printing tasks.
The plotter was crucial for printing banners for the event.
Common Curiosities
What is a Printer?
A printer is a device for printing text and smaller-scale graphics on paper.
What are the primary uses of a Plotter?
The primary uses include architectural plans, engineering drawings, and other large-format graphics.
What are the primary uses of a Printer?
Printers are used for documents, photos, and other small-scale printing tasks.
How does a Plotter work?
A plotter uses a pen or similar instrument to draw directly onto the paper.
What is a Plotter?
A plotter is a specialized printing device for high-precision, large-format graphics.
Is a Plotter more expensive than a Printer?
Yes, plotters are typically more expensive due to their specialized functionality.
What is the size comparison between a Plotter and a Printer?
Plotters are larger than printers, requiring more workspace.
Can a Plotter print text?
While not its primary function, a plotter can print text but not as efficiently as a printer.
How does a Printer work?
Printers use inkjet or laser technology to transfer ink or toner onto paper.
What technology does a Plotter use?
Plotters primarily use pen-based technology.
Which is faster, a Plotter or a Printer?
Printers are generally faster than plotters.
Who typically uses Printers?
Printers are commonly used by general consumers, offices, and educational institutions.
Who typically uses Plotters?
Professionals like architects, engineers, and designers often use plotters.
Can a Printer produce large-scale graphics?
Some specialized printers can, but generally, printers are not designed for large-scale graphics like plotters.
What technology does a Printer use?
Printers commonly use inkjet or laser technology.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
