What Printers Work With a Macbook?

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PC-only cables are not compatible with a Macbook.

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When it comes to choosing a printer for a Macbook, it is easy to be confused with information about competing brands and compatibility. Because Apple laptops have different cable ports than PC laptops, your printer selection is limited; by understanding the basics of Mac printer connections, you can avoid the process of buying and returning incompatible printers.

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Standard PC printers use different cable connections; the end of a PC-only printer cable is a long, rectangular piece that attaches to the computer. Because a Macbook does not have a similar port, it cannot accept a standard cable. Instead, you need a USB printer cable; not all printers are USB-compatible. The specifications on a printer package will contain the information about computer connections and will specify whether or not the cable has a USB end.

Wireless Printers

If you are concerned about the cable length for use with your laptop, a wireless printer is a useful solution. Because wireless printers don't use cables, using one with a Macbook gives you more freedom to print from anywhere in signal range. Wireless printer setup requires a setup process that includes connecting it to your wireless Internet network and adding the printer to your Macbook's network.

Apple Stores

All printers sold by Apple Computers are designed to work with the Mac operating system; while Apple itself does not make printers, they sell compatible third-party models. Both the online and brick-and-mortar Apple stores sell options that will work with your Macbook. Available brands include Epson, HP and Lexmark. If you are confused about compatible brands, Apple stores are one way to guarantee success.

Operating System

A common misconception when it comes to Mac-compatible printers is that their operating system makes it difficult to use standard printers. The opposite is true; the brand is not important when it comes to compatibility. As long as you have the correct cable type, you can use almost any printer with a Macbook. You may be required to download the appropriate drivers from the manufacturer's website.

ReferencesApple Store: PrintersApple Support: Mac OS X v10.6: How to Connect a Wireless-Capable Printer to Your AirPort NetworkPhoto Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty ImagesRead Next:

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