10 Best Dot Matrix Printer Of 2026
Dot Matrix Printer — Reviews, Recommendations & Updated Buying Guide September 2026
Epson LQ-690II 24-pin dot matrix printer
Why We Love It
Epson Dot Matrix Printers Grey
Why We Love It
Epson LQ-690II Dot Matrix Printer 4800 x 1200 DPI 487 CPS
Why We Love It
Quick Pick
10 Best Dot Matrix Printer Of 2026
Buying Guide: Dot Matrix Printer
📋 Table of Contents
1What's the difference between 9-pin and 24-pin dot matrix printers?
24-pin printers produce sharper, higher-quality text and graphics compared to 9-pin models, making them better for business documents and forms. 9-pin printers are faster and cheaper but create rougher output, so choose based on whether you prioritize speed or print quality.
2How do I know what print width I need?
Check the maximum paper width your business uses—common options are 80mm (thermal receipts), 210mm (A4 documents), or 280mm+ (wide forms). Wider printers cost more and take up more space, so only buy what matches your actual document sizes.
3What printing speed should I look for?
Look for at least 300-400 characters per second (CPS) for regular office use; higher speeds (500+ CPS) matter if you're printing large volumes daily. Don't chase the highest number if you only print occasionally—it won't make a practical difference.
4Are dot matrix printers still worth buying in 2024?
They're valuable only if you need multi-part carbon forms, specific industrial applications, or must replace an existing model—otherwise thermal or inkjet printers are more practical. Check if your business actually requires dot matrix output before purchasing, as spare parts and ribbons can be harder to find now.
5What should I check about ribbon compatibility before buying?
Verify that ribbon cartridges are readily available locally or online and check their replacement cost, as this becomes your main ongoing expense. Some older models use proprietary ribbons that are expensive or discontinued, so confirm availability matches the printer brand you're considering.
How we choose
Our editors are people who genuinely love testing and writing about products. We compare each product's real-world usability and strengths, then distill what matters most into our own "Why We Love It" points — so you get an honest, at-a-glance sense of what counts before you buy.