Several makes of inkjet printers have been modified to print on CDs. The difference between an unmodified printer and a CD printer is only in the paper carriage, which must be altered to allow a rigid, thick disc pass through the mechanism instead of thin, flexible paper or film. Attempting to print on plain lacquer-surfaced discs results in the ink not adhering to the disc, smearing and beading up.
Printable media has a slightly porous coating that holds the ink.
Another consideration is the cost of use. Inkjet printers used with appropriate media can produce very attractive discs, with multiple colors and high-resolution graphics. However, if care is not taken in matching the printer with media compatible with its ink, the end product may be less pleasing. Nonetheless, if the disc color is taken into account and integrated into the design, colored surfaces might be used effectively. Bear in mind that there are many different shades of white, and one brand may give a slightly different appearance from another on that basis alone.