How to use JavaScript to print from a web browser?

Frontend
1

Hey everyone,

I’m working on a project where I need to print stuff directly from a web page. Is this even possible using JavaScript?

Here’s what I’m trying to do:

  • User clicks a button on the website
  • A receipt number (like ‘5678’) prints out on a small piece of paper
  • It needs to be super quick

I’ve heard some printers are faster than others. Any recommendations for speedy ones that work well with web-based printing?

I’m totally new to this, so any help or tips would be awesome. Thanks in advance!

2

hey iris72, printing from js can be tricky. window.print() works for whole pages, but for receipts you might need a thermal printer with special drivers. check out libraries like qz tray or jsprint. they can help with custom printing. good luck with ur project!

3

JavaScript printing capabilities are indeed limited for security reasons. However, you have options for your receipt printing project. One approach is to generate a printable version of the receipt as a separate webpage, then use window.print() to trigger the print dialog. For faster, custom printing, consider integrating a receipt printer API like Star Micronics’ or Epson’s. These often require additional software installed on the client machine. Alternatively, you could explore server-side printing solutions where the print job is sent to a dedicated print server. This method can offer more control and speed, especially for high-volume printing needs.

4

ooh, printing from javascript sounds interesting! have u looked into the window.print() method? it might work for basic stuff. but for custom receipts, maybe u need a special printer API? im curious, whats ur project about? sounds cool! any chance u could share more details?