Printing from a laptop used to be simple. Plug it in, install the driver, and you’re done. But if you’ve recently upgraded to a Windows laptop powered with ARM architecture, like a Snapdragon-based device, you might be wondering why your printer doesn’t behave the same way. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and most modern printers can work seamlessly with ARM laptops. In this guide, we’ll explain how ARM affects printing, highlight compatible printers from top brands, and share tips to make printing as easy as ever.
What Are Snapdragon Devices
ARM Snapdragon devices are standard laptops, the only difference is they use Snapdragon processors, which is built on ARM architecture.
For the Techies, ARM is a type of processor architecture designed for efficiency and low power usage. Originally used in smartphones and tablets which were powered by Snapdragon processors. But, in recent years, ARM has moved from smartphones into laptops and other devices including:
- Windows laptops powered by Snapdragon processors: (E.G Surface Laptops with Snapdragon X Elite, Surface Pro X, Lenovo Yoga printers)
- Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2 and later)
- ARM-based Chromebooks
Because ARM chips differ from traditional Intel and AMD x86 processors, some software and drivers (including printer drivers) may need specific ARM-compatible versions.
Printer Compatibility On ARM Snapdragon Devices
Many traditional printer drivers were designed for x86 processors. On ARM Snapdragon devices, these drivers may not install correctly, or some advanced features (like scanning) may not work. Common issues include:
- Printers not appearing in the system’s “Add a Printer” menu
- Installation errors with manufacturer software
- Missing scanner, or advanced feature functions
Fortunately, modern printers are using universal drivers, or Mopria compatible printing more often, which works across ARM laptops without special installation. This means that most printers from major brands now have basic functionality with ARM laptops.
General Purpose Printing On ARM Snapdragon
Home and office general printing on a device using an ARM Snapdragon processor is designed to be simple, and straight forward. However, by making connectivity so simple, it does have some limits the printers features
There are a few steps to make using a printer with an ARM-based laptop easier at home though:
- Use WiFi Printing: Many home printers automatically appear as available printers on your ARM laptop without needing drivers. Simple connect both devices to the same network
- Use Google Mopria or Apple AirPrint: Most wireless printers are Mopria or AirPrint certified. Both of these apps were built for use with Snapdragon powered devices, typically mobile phones and tablets
- Check For Drivers On The Microsoft App Store: Some manufacturers have apps available on the Microsoft Store which allow full print, copy, scan and advanced feature support on connected Xerox printers
Specialist Printing On ARM Snapdragon
When it comes to printing, like prescriptions on the NHS, Windows ARM devices, (including those powered by Snapdragon processors) are increasingly capable of handling larger workloads. While home printing focuses on convenience. Specialist printing can be trickier to setup though, as it includes advanced features, such as double-sided printing, , copying or scanning. Plus, there could be software limitations, as developers don’t always create their apps for ARM Snapdragon devices.
Prescription Printing with ARM Devices
Prescription printing on Windows Laptops and PC’s running ARM architecture, and Snapdragon processors is not currently available. However, there are some work arounds for this:
EPS: By using EPS (Electronic Prescription Service) prescribers can electronically send their prescriptions to a pharmacy, removing the need to physically print the document altogether.
EMIS-X: EMIS-X is a cloud-based clinical system that can be accessed through EMIS Web currently, with full browser access coming soon. By using browser based software, such as this – Healthcare teams can bypass the need for locally downloaded software, and printer drivers. Alternatively, the printable media can be shared and printed as normal through another laptop or PC on the same EMIS network.
Google Mopria: can be used to legally print prescriptions in the UK. However, there are a few legal notes to consider:
- The prescription must be printed on an FP10 form
- A physical (Wet) signature must be handwritten
- The text boxes must be lined up and filled in correctly, including the Overtype space
Bypassing EPS with PDF Printing
It is possible to bypass the Electronic Prescription Systems requirements by printing prescriptions as a PDF. This method does not need most of the portals used by EMIS, SystmOne etc. all users need to do is download the Prescription PDF from your portal online, and print it like a normal document.
Tips for Printing on Windows ARM Devices
Check For Universal Drivers
If the printers manufacturer doesn’t list ARM-specific drivers, look for a “Windows 10/11 (x64 and ARM)” universal driver. Universal drivers can have limited functions, such as lacking the support for scanning, or double-sided printing. However, they will allow your printer to print from a Snapdragon powered device.
Consider Google Mopria or Apple AirPrint Support
Google Mopria (for Windows and Android) and AirPrint (for Apple devices) allow printing without installing full manufacturer software. These applications are designed to work primarily with Snapdragon-based devices
Keep Windows Updated
ARM laptops get frequent updates that improve peripheral compatibility, these frequent updates can also include new features
Scanning Using the Windows Scan App
Not all Universal Drivers include scanning. However, all Windows PC’s do have the Windows Scan app. This is a free download available on the Microsoft store which allows users to scan, even from ARM-based devices
Printing From Windows S ARM Laptops
Windows S is a version of the Windows operating system that prioritizes security and performance by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store and is limited to Microsoft Edge for browsing. While the Windows S restriction does boost security, it does prevent the download of third-party apps, not available on the Microsoft App Store.
This does mean official manufacturer drivers cannot be download, and you’re limited to printing using the Microsoft Printer Drivers, which prevents a lot of advanced features, including scanning and copying.
Printers That Work With ARM Snapdragon
Not all printers currently in production are compatible with ARM Architecture. The following brands have confirmed full functionality including advanced features for ARM Snapdragon based devices. We will be updating this list when more manufacturers make announcements:
Please Note: For full functionality, where available, you need to download both the printer, and scanner (Or Advanced Features) drivers from the manufacturer
Additional Support
Drivers for advanced features including scanning and double-sided printing are available on many printers. Download drivers, apps or view the list of supported printers from each manufacturer below.
Kyocera KX Driver
The standard Kyocera KX driver includes support for ARM devices, running Snapdragon processors. This provides full functionality, including advanced printing and scan features found on some printers and multifunction devices. Drivers can be found and downloaded on the Kyocera support website. However, instead of running the installer like normal windows, users need to add the printer manually, then configure the driver by selecting the “.inf” file
Verdict
Printing from Windows ARM laptops, including Snapdragon-powered devices, is now straightforward, thanks to universal drivers, Mopria/AirPrint support and wireless printing. However, the limited features, especially when it comes to scanning can be frustrating. Currently, the best way and easiest to print and scan with a laptop using a Snapdragon processor, or ARM architecture, is with Kyocera laser printers.
FAQ’s
Do ARM Laptops Support USB Printers?
Yes, but the printer must have an ARM-compatible driver, or support standard Windows printing protocols. Network printers often require fewer adjustments
Can I Print From A Snapdragon Laptop?
Yes! Snapdragon laptops are ARM-based and can print with most modern printers using universal drivers or network/Mopria printing.
Will All My Printers Features Work On ARM Laptops?
Basic printing usually works, but advanced utilities like scanning software may need ARM-compatible versions. It’s recommended to check if the manufacturer has ARM based drivers before purchasing a new printer.
Can I Print From an ARM-based Apple Mac or Google Chromebook?
Yes, ARM-based Apple Macs and Google Chromebooks often use Apple AirPrint, or Mopria to print without the need of ARM drivers
Why Can't I Scan From My Laptop?
While most universal printer drivers focus on printing, Xerox is currently the only manufacturer we know of that supports scanning on ARM-based laptops.
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