Print quality isn't great, however, and it's slower than dye-sub units. Most users won't be able to tell the difference between photo-quality and true photographic prints. But a closer comparison will reveal that computer-generated prints aren't as sharp, detailed or accurate as real photographs. Frankly, the quality difference is probably immaterial because amateur snapshots are for fun and family, not for professional use. But before you run out to buy a snapshot printer, here are some things to consider.
Some printers automatically laminate a special UV-resistant coating over the print to protect it.
Unlike most ink jets, which can be used for a variety of functions, snapshot printers only create snapshot-size photos.