Inkjet vs. Deskjet Printers: Key Differences & Which to Buy
Inkjet is the broad printer category that sprays liquid ink onto paper; DeskJet is simply HP’s consumer line of inkjet printers, so every DeskJet is an inkjet, but not every inkjet is a DeskJet.
People mix them up because “DeskJet” sounds like a separate technology, and store labels often list both side-by-side. In reality, shoppers compare HP’s DeskJet to Canon’s PIXMA or Epson’s EcoTank, thinking they’re choosing between different engine types instead of brand flavors.
Key Differences
Inkjet covers all brands using liquid ink cartridges or tanks; print speeds, page yields, and prices vary widely. DeskJet models cap at around 8–10 ppm color, use smaller 65/67 cartridges, and target home homework & coupon printing, whereas other inkjets scale up to photo-lab quality or bulk-tank economy.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose DeskJet if you print under 50 pages a month and want the cheapest upfront machine. Choose a non-HP inkjet (EcoTank, PIXMA MegaTank) if you need lower cost per page, larger ink reservoirs, or photo output beyond snapshots.
Can a DeskJet use generic ink?
Yes, but HP’s firmware updates may block third-party cartridges, so check reviews before buying generics.
Do all inkjets clog like DeskJets?
All liquid-ink printers can clog if unused, but bulk-tank models with pigment inks resist it better than small-cartridge DeskJets.
Is color laser cheaper than inkjet for photos?
No; color laser toner costs more per photo and lacks inkjet’s color range, making inkjet the clear winner for images.