Printer specifications are full of abbreviations. This glossary explains the common printer terms in plain English so you can read a product page with confidence.
Last updated: October 30, 2026.
Printing terms
DPI (dots per inch)
A measure of print resolution. A higher number means finer detail, but it matters most for photos. For text, most modern printers are sharp enough.
PPM (pages per minute)
The rated print speed. Real speed is often lower, especially for color or photos.
Duplex printing
Printing on both sides of the page. Automatic duplex flips the page for you. See our duplex printers.
Borderless printing
Printing to the edge of the paper with no white margin, common for photos and cards.
Scanning terms
ADF (automatic document feeder)
A tray that feeds pages through the scanner for you. See printers with a document feeder.
Flatbed
The glass surface where you lay a page or photo to scan or copy.
All-in-one (MFP)
A printer that also scans and copies, and sometimes faxes. Read what an all-in-one printer is.
Connection terms
AirPrint
Apple’s driverless printing system for iPhone, iPad and Mac. See our AirPrint printers.
Wi-Fi Direct
A way to connect a phone or laptop straight to the printer without a router.
Supplies terms
Page yield
The number of pages a cartridge is rated to print under standard test conditions. Use it to work out cost per page.
Dye and pigment ink
Dye inks give vivid color. Pigment inks resist water and fading better. Which one a printer uses affects results on photo and art paper.
Toner
The dry powder laser printers fuse onto paper. Read printer ink vs toner.
Ink tank
A refillable ink reservoir used instead of cartridges. See EcoTank printers.
Workload terms
Duty cycle
The maximum pages a printer is designed to print per month. Choose a printer rated above what you print. See high-volume printers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a higher DPI mean better prints?
For photos, usually yes up to a point. For text, most printers are already sharp.
What does MFP mean?
Multifunction printer, the same as an all-in-one.
What is a good duty cycle?
One that is well above the pages you print each month.
Bottom Line
Learn these terms and you can compare printers on specifications, not marketing. Start with our best printers for home use.
