PostScript and PCL are printer languages: sets of instructions a computer sends to describe fonts, graphics, layout, and page structure. Most home users never choose between them because the printer driver handles it.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you are installing a business printer, choosing between PCL and PostScript drivers, or fixing a document that prints with shifted fonts, spacing, or graphics.
What each one is good at
Neither option is universally better; they prioritize different jobs.
- PostScript: developed by Adobe and known for precise layout, font, and graphics handling. It is common in design, publishing, Adobe workflows, and print shops.
- PCL: developed by HP and optimized for fast everyday office output such as text documents, forms, spreadsheets, and reports.
- Compatibility: PostScript is broadly useful across operating systems and creative apps, while PCL is very common in Windows business environments.
- Home printers: many consumer inkjets and budget printers use simpler proprietary drivers instead of either language.
More control
Check the spec sheet
Business printer product pages usually list supported printer languages under Printer Languages or Emulation, such as PCL6 or PostScript 3.
Professional print shops may prefer PostScript
For exact typography, layout, and color-sensitive PDF workflows, a shop may request a PostScript-compatible file or driver path.
Switch drivers for layout bugs
If a document looks right on screen but prints with changed spacing or fonts, install the other driver version if available and test again.
Modern PDF printing reduced the issue
For everyday printing, modern drivers and PDF workflows hide most PostScript-versus-PCL differences.
Sources
- HP Support – PCL and PostScript Printer Languages Explained (2025)
- Adobe – What Is PostScript? (2025)
- Xerox Support – Choosing Between PCL and PostScript Drivers (2025)