Here are the functional differences between the Hewlett-Packard DeskJet
and the Apple LaserWriter SC.
The HP DeskJet has two draft modes: 300x150 dpi and letter quality (300x300
dpi).
It is rated at two pages-per-minute (2ppm), compared to the LaserWriter SC
at eight pages-per-minute (8ppm). The DeskJet pauses between pages to allow
the ink to dry.
The DeskJet is designed for lower volumes (40 to 50 pages-per-day), while
the LaserWriter SC can work at 150+ pages per day.
The DeskJet comes with one typeface family of nine fonts (Courier, Courier
Bold, and Courier Compressed at 10, 16.67, and 20 characters-per-inch --
all at the same point size).
The LaserWriter SC comes with four typeface families (Courier, Times,
Helvetica, and Symbol) each with bold, italic, underline, outline,
subscript/superscript, and (with some applications) small caps each in 9-,
10-, 12-, 14-, 18-, and 24-point sizes -- approximately 1,000 fonts
altogether.
The DeskJet fonts must be selected from the front panel, so font mixing is
limited. The LaserWriter SC is able to deal with a wide variety of fonts,
and the changes are made on the screen in the traditional Macintosh method.
The DeskJet ink cartridges must be changed every 500 to 800 sheets and
cost approximately $20 each. DeskJet cartridges cost about $20 per 3000
sheets more than LaserWriter toner cartridges.