Duplex Printing: Easy Guide to Print on Both Sides

Ever finished a print job and realised you've just used twice as much paper as you needed? We've all been there. With documents piling up and paper costs mounting, it's worth understanding how your printer can help you cut down on waste. That's where duplex printing comes in.

What Is Duplex Printing?

Duplex printing is simply the ability to print on both sides of a sheet of paper. Instead of printing page one, then page two on a separate sheet, your printer handles both sides of a single sheet, either automatically or with a bit of help from you.

Automatic vs Manual Duplex Printing

There are two main ways to print double-sided documents:

• Automatic Duplex Printing: With automatic duplex, your printer does all the work. You hit print, and the machine handles flipping the paper internally to print both sides without you touching a thing. Modern multifunction printers often come with this feature built-in, making it effortless to reduce paper usage.
• Manual Double-Sided Printing: If your printer doesn't have automatic duplex capabilities, you can still print on both sides manually. Print all the odd pages first, then flip the stack and feed it back to print the even pages. Manual duplex can be tricky; feed the paper incorrectly, and you may print upside down or over existing text.

How Do You Print Double-Sided?

On Windows:

• Open your document and select Print
• Choose your printer
• Open Print Settings or Printer Properties
• Select Two-Sided or Duplex Printing
• Choose long-edge (portrait) or short-edge (landscape)
• Click Print

On Mac:

• Open your document and press Command + P
• Select Copies & Pages → Layout
• Under Two-Sided, choose Long-Edge Binding or Short-Edge Binding
• Click Print

If you cannot find the duplex option, your printer may not support automatic duplexing. Check the manual or specifications.

How Does Duplex Printing Actually Work?

Duplex printing relies on a component called a duplexer. Modern printers may use dual-engine duplexers to print both sides simultaneously. Older printers flip the paper internally after printing one side. Some duplexers are removable or sold as add-ons. Always use the correct printer drivers.

Benefits of Duplex Printing

• Cut Paper Use in Half: Reduce paper consumption dramatically.
• Save Time: Automatic duplex is faster than manual flipping.
• Fewer Paper Jams: Modern duplex units handle paper smoothly.
• Better for the Planet: Less paper waste helps the environment.

Duplex vs Double-Sided Printing

Double-sided printing describes the result, while duplex printing refers to the technology that achieves it. The terms are often used interchangeably.

Making Duplex Your Default

Set duplex as default to automatically print double-sided. On Windows, adjust settings via Devices & Printers. On Mac, go to Printers & Scanners → Options & Supplies.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Automatic Duplex Issues:

• Use quality paper (80gsm+)
• Keep the duplex unit clean
• Check alignment settings
• Update printer drivers

Manual Duplex Challenges:

• Follow printer prompts carefully
• Test with a few sheets before large jobs
• Use consistent paper type and weight

Find Your Perfect Duplex Printer at Ink Depot

At Ink Depot, we stock a wide range of printers with duplex printing capabilities. Switch to a duplex-capable printer to save paper and boost efficiency. Don’t forget to stock up on ink cartridges and toner cartridges to keep your printer running at its best!