Translation guide
A device that prints text or images onto paper. In Japanese, the most common word is プリンター, a loanword from English. There are also native terms for specific types or contexts.
プリンター
printer (device)
The most common meaning: an electronic device connected to a computer for printing documents or photos.
The standard loanword for any modern printer, used in homes and offices. Safe for all contexts.
新しいプリンターを買いました。
I bought a new printer.
プリンターのインクが切れた。
The printer ran out of ink.
Literally 'printing machine'. More formal or technical, often used for industrial or large-scale printers. Not common for home printers.
この印刷機は高速で印刷できます。
This printing machine can print at high speed.
A printer specifically designed for printing photographs, often with high quality.
A common compound word for photo printers, used in consumer electronics.
このフォトプリンターはとても綺麗に印刷できる。
This photo printer can print very beautifully.
Literally 'photo printer'. Also common, but フォトプリンター is slightly more frequent in product names.
写真プリンターで年賀状を作りました。
I made New Year's cards with a photo printer.
A printer that creates three-dimensional objects by layering material.
The standard term for 3D printers. The '3D' is pronounced as English letters.
3Dプリンターでフィギュアを作った。
I made a figurine with a 3D printer.
A person whose job is to operate a printing press or manage printing tasks.
Refers to a printing worker or press operator. Not used for office workers who just use a printer.
彼は印刷工として働いています。
He works as a printer (printing worker).
印刷者 (いんさつしゃ) means 'person who prints' and is not used for machines. Stick to プリンター for devices.
プリンターが故障した。
The printer broke down.