Dot matrix impact printers remain a practical choice for many business applications that require multi-part forms, carbon copies, or continuous paper use. This article presents some of the best dot matrix impact printers available on Amazon today, highlighting their key features, interfaces, and ideal use scenarios. Below is a summary table featuring the five selected models based on durability, print speed, and connectivity options.
| Product | Print Speed | Pin Configuration | Connectivity | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer | Up to 347 cps | 9 pin | Parallel, Serial, USB | Front and back office, continuous paper |
| Epson TM-U220B POS Impact Receipt Printer | 6.0 lines per second | Dot Matrix | Ethernet, DK Port | Receipts, kitchen/bar labels |
| Epson LQ-590II 24-Pin Dot Matrix Printer | Up to 584 cps | 24 pin | Parallel, USB | High-volume daily printing |
| Epson FX-880+ Impact Dot Matrix Printer | 440 cps | 9 pin | USB, Parallel | Replacement for Okidata Microline 320 Turbo |
| OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo Dot Matrix Printer | 435 cps | 9 pin | USB, Parallel | Mono printing, high duty cycle |
Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer – Fast 9-Pin Printing
The Epson LX-350 is built with durable 9-pin EPSON technology, capable of printing up to 347 characters per second. It is ideal for office environments that require continuous paper or multi-part stationery printing. Multiple interfaces including Parallel, Serial, and USB offer flexible connectivity options. Its compact design fits neatly on desks, making it a solid choice for front and back office applications. This printer combines performance and convenience for users needing reliable impact printing.
Epson TM-U220B Compact POS Impact Receipt Printer
This Epson TM-U220B is a compact and reliable receipt and kitchen label printer optimized for mobile POS applications. It supports Ethernet and DK Port connections, and prints up to 6 lines per second with an auto-cutter feature. Compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows devices, it provides two-color printing to highlight important orders or exceptions. Its design maximizes speed and efficiency in busy restaurant or retail environments.
Epson LQ-590II 24-Pin Dot Matrix Printer for Heavy-Duty Use
The Epson LQ-590II offers high durability and ease of use for critical daily printing tasks. Featuring a 24-pin print head, it produces outputs at speeds up to 584 characters per second. This model is designed with low cost of ownership in mind and a robust long life cycle. Its performance and longevity make it well suited for high-volume documentation in office and industrial environments.
Epson FX-880+ 9-Pin Impact Dot Matrix Printer
The Epson FX-880+ is a high-speed 9-pin dot matrix printer capable of printing 440 characters per second. It serves as a compatible replacement for the Okidata Microline 320 Turbo. It includes USB, Parallel, and Type B interface connections, ensuring compatibility with modern setups. This printer is a reliable option for users seeking efficient multi-part form printing with legacy system compatibility.
OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo Mono Dot Matrix Printer
The OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo features a 9-pin impact technology providing print speeds up to 435 characters per minute. With a high duty cycle of up to 20,000 pages, this printer is ideal for heavy printing demands. It offers USB and Parallel connections and a 64 KB buffer for faster processing. Its 240 x 216 dpi resolution delivers clear prints, making it suitable for mono printing applications requiring durability and reliability.
Buying Guide for Dot Matrix Impact Printers
Choosing the right dot matrix impact printer can significantly affect your printing efficiency and maintenance costs. Here are key factors to consider:
Print Speed and Pin Configuration
Print speed is typically measured in characters per second (cps) or lines per second (lps). Higher cps means faster document output. Pin count affects print quality and clarity. A higher pin count (e.g., 24-pin) offers sharper text and graphics, while lower pins (9-pin) suffice for simpler tasks.
Connectivity Options
Modern printers offer USB, Parallel, Serial, Ethernet, and specialized ports like DK Port for POS systems. Choose a printer compatible with your devices and network infrastructure to ensure seamless integration.
Print Volume and Durability
Consider the duty cycle and expected daily print volume. Models built with durable print heads and long-life components reduce downtime and replacement frequency, crucial for business environments.
Paper Handling and Media Support
Assess the printer’s compatibility with continuous paper, multi-part forms, and receipt rolls. Printers supporting auto-cutters or two-color printing enhance usability in retail or hospitality settings.
Replacement Parts and Consumables Availability
Availability of ribbons, print heads, and maintenance kits affects long-term ownership costs. Prefer brands with widespread support and affordable consumables.
By evaluating these elements, you can select a dot matrix impact printer that matches your business needs for performance, reliability, and cost-efficiency.