An impact printer must strike the page to create the image. A nonimpact printer does not strike the page to create the image. All printers produce hard copy, which is anything printed on paper.

Most impact printers use a special type of paper called continuous form paper. Each sheet is connected together to form a continuous ribbon of paper through the printer. The advantage is you do not have to change this type of paper as frequently. The printer generally uses a tractor feed for this type of paper.

Most impact and nonimpact printers can use single-sheet paper. Impact printers can use a friction feed, while most nonimpact printers use a sheet feeder for this type of paper. You can change this type of paper quickly and easily.

Most printers have an emulation mode. That is, it can imitate another printer. Why? Most software manufacturers write their software for the more popular printers. The less popular printers imitate the more popular ones so they can run most software.

Most printers can print different fonts which is a type of print. A font defines the shape and appearance of text and come in differnt sizes. Most software will provide additional fonts that the printer can use.

Printers come in many different shapes and sizes which include: dot matrix, inkjet, and laser printer.