iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
A raster image processor (RIP) converts a print job’s page description—such as text, vector shapes and graphics in a PDF or PostScript file—into raster data: a grid of dots or pixels that an output device can reproduce. A RIP may be built into a printer or supplied separately as software or hardware; it is a processing stage, not necessarily a separate product.
What does a raster image processor do?
A design or document describes what a page should contain and where its elements belong. In a print workflow, that information can be sent as a page description language (PDL), a format that describes page content and layout for an output device. The RIP interprets the description and creates raster output for the printer. Adobe describes the sequence this way: “The RIP takes over after the PDL file has been sent for printing.” Adobe Embedded Print Engine FAQ
In practical terms, rasterization turns described elements—including text and vector shapes—into a grid of colored dots or pixels. The printer or other output device uses that raster data to produce the image on its medium. The particular input format and intermediate processing depend on the printer and workflow; PostScript and PDF are common examples, not a guarantee that every RIP accepts both. Adobe Adobe Embedded Print Engine FAQ
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat is the difference between rasterization and a raster image?
- Raster image: An image represented as a grid of pixels or dots.
- Rasterization: The conversion of described page content, including text and vector shapes, into raster data for output. Adobe
- Page description language (PDL): A language or format that describes page content and layout for an output device. It is an input to the print-processing sequence Adobe describes.
Is a RIP software, hardware, or part of the printer?
It can be any of these, depending on the system. A printer may include an integrated RIP, or a workflow may use a separate software or hardware solution. HP describes hardware RIP setups using a dedicated workstation or PC, as well as third-party RIPs used with printers, including large-format models. HP support documentation
#1 Best Overall
- BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and delivers high-quality black & white prints
- FAST PRINTER WITH EFFICIENT SCANNING – Produces documents quickly with print speeds up to 36 ppm(2) and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm(3) (black/color). A 50-page auto document feeder(4) allows for convenient, time saving multi-page scanning and copying
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTION OPTIONS – Easily navigate the changing demands of your business with secure multi-device connectivity via built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz) and Ethernet. Or connect locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Print, scan, and manage your wireless printer anytime, from almost anywhere from your mobile device. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(5)
- CHOOSE BROTHER GENUINE TONER – When it’s time to replace your toner, be sure to choose Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL replacement toner. And with Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, you’ll never worry about running out of toner again and you’ll enjoy savings of up to 50%(6) on Brother Genuine Toner. Get started with Refresh today with a Free Trial(1)
The name describes the processing function, not one standard product form. A definition of RIP therefore does not mean that every user needs to install or buy a separate one.
What other work can a RIP perform?
Depending on the print engine and workflow, a RIP may also handle color and font management, transparency, or halftoning. These are additional capabilities, not a uniform checklist for every RIP. Adobe’s print-engine FAQ discusses these functions; check the documentation for the specific printer and RIP to see which are supported. Adobe Embedded Print Engine FAQ
Rank #2
- BEST FOR HOMES & HOME OFFICES – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2405W Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer delivers sharp, crisp prints at an affordable price. Prints one-sided documents at speeds up to 30ppm(2)
- COMPACT, CONNECTED PRINTER – Flexible connection options make this an ideal printer for home use and at-home offices. Securely connect to multiple devices with built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) or locally to a single computer via USB interface
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Manage your printer remotely and print from your mobile device anytime, from almost anywhere. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(3)
- VERSATILE PAPER HANDLING – Enjoy seamless, reliable everyday printing with the 250-sheet paper tray(4) and a manual feed slot that enables printing on envelopes and specialty pape
- BROTHER IS AT YOUR SIDE – Backed by Brother with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer
When might a separate RIP matter?
For routine printing, the printer’s built-in processing may be sufficient. A separate solution can be relevant in workflows with large, memory-intensive graphics or CAD files, large-format output, or a need to control and schedule jobs. HP identifies these as potential use cases, not a promise that an extra RIP will make every job faster or improve every print. HP support documentation
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Before choosing a separate RIP, verify that it supports the input formats, printer, and output workflow you actually use. Format compatibility and available features vary by system; do not assume that every RIP can process the same files or produce the same printer-ready data.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FROM AMERICA'S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – Perfect for small teams printing professional-quality black & white documents and reports. Perfect for 1-3 people
- WORLD'S SMALLEST LASER IN ITS CLASS – Precision laser printing that fits anywhere
- FAST PRINT SPEEDS – Up to 21 black-and-white pages per minute single-sided
- WIRELESS WITH SELF-RESET – Helps you stay connected
- PRINT FROM ANY DEVICE – Wireless printing from any mobile device, PC or tablet. Works with Microsoft, Mac, AirPrint, Android, Chromebook and more
Rank #4
- BEST FOR HOME OFFICES & SMALL TEAMS – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2460DW Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer produces documents that are clear, crisp, and easy to review and share, all at an affordable price
- COMPACT, CONNECTED, EXCEPTIONALLY EFFICIENT– Connect with built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, or to a single computer via USB interface. Prints at speeds up to 36ppm(2), plus automatic duplex printing saves time and reduces paper waste
- BROTHER MOBILE CONNECT APP – Manage your wireless printer remotely and print from your mobile device anytime, from almost anywhere. Order Brother Genuine Supplies, track toner usage, and complete more work on-the-go(3)
- VERSATILE PAPER HANDLING – Tackle high-volume black & white printing with the 250-sheet capacity paper tray.(4) The manual feed slot enables printing on envelopes and specialty paper
- BROTHER IS AT YOUR SIDE – Backed by Brother with a 1-year limited warranty and free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer
Rank #3
- FAST PRINT SPEEDS: Print up to 19 pages per minute.
- COMPACT DESIGN: Space-saving, compact design fits anywhere in your home, school or small office.
- WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY: Print from almost anywhere in your workspace using your compatible mobile device.
- PAPER CAPACITY: Up to 150 sheets.
- SUSTAINABILITY: Uses less than 2 watts in Energy Saver mode.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
