Printing From InDesign to Epson inkjet

[davidg96479497]

When I print, the color is muted and some of the fine lines drop out. When I print the same file to a laser printer, it looks much better brighter--crisp. Prints look great from other apps. What can I do?

i talked to Epson tech, and they say to ask Adobe because the printer is working as it should, based on test prints from other apps.

[Derek Cross]

Which version of InDesign and OS?
Are you printing from a PDF created from your InDesign document, if so, which type?

Are your images in RGB color mode?

[davidg96479497]

Thanks for your reply, Derek.

InDesign v 15.1.1

OS Catalina 10.15.5

I'm printing directly from InDesign. Should I be converting it to a PDF first? I tried that and it looked a little better. Doesn't look as good as the laserprint. Colors are not true.

The image is RGB, created in Adobe Fresco/Photoshop.

[Derek Cross · Accepted solution]

Try PDF/X-4

There are lots of factors why your indesign document might not be printing accurately.

Have a look at this Linkedin Learning online video training course (you can get 30-days free access):

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/indesign-color-management/welcome

[davidg96479497]

Thanks. I have a subscription, so I will watch that right now. Seems like there are so many variables. I believe the printer (brand new) has the capacity for better quality--it's actually sold to be a photo printer. Thanks again. 

[Mike Witherell · Accepted solution]

Laser toner dust can never look like inkjet piezo-electric wet ink splashes. With good color management, the overall color tone can be close, but the essential appearance of laser vs inkjet will always seem different.

Most agree that, yes, export to PDF and print from the PDF.

[davidg96479497]

Thanks, Mike!