Printix vs QZ Tray

Printix is cloud-based print management software for businesses managing print environments, including hybrid cloud setups. Administrators use central web-based management to configure printers, print queues, and drivers. Users can print from Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iOS, and Android devices, then release jobs at a printer through a browser or smartphone, or by card or ID code on many printer models. Printix says it supports any printer without requiring new certified printers or print connectors. Its Capture feature can route scans from supported HP, Konica Minolta, and Ricoh multifunction printers to email, OneDrive, and SharePoint Online. Listed integrations include Microsoft Entra ID, Endpoint Manager, Azure Blob Storage, Power BI, Google Workspace, Google Groups, and Google Cloud Storage. Printix says documents are encrypted with AES using a 256-bit key and stored locally; they do not leave the customer network unless cloud printing is enabled. Starter costs $2.09 per user per month for 15 to 50 users, with the first month free. The 30-day trial provides full feature access without a credit card.

QZ Tray connects web clients to local printers and attached devices, enabling browser-based printing and hardware communication through its JavaScript connector. Printing support includes PDF, PNG, HTML, PCL, ESC/POS, EPL, ZPL, SBPL, and FGL. Device connections can use serial, HID, USB, socket, or file I/O. The maker lists Zebra, SATO, Epson, Citizen, Star, Boca, and Dymo among compatible printer brands. Desktop editions run on Windows, macOS, and Linux, including Intel and ARM or Apple Silicon systems; supported platforms also include iOS, Android, and ChromeOS. QZ Tray can be downloaded and used for free, with warnings, and the maker offers a free demonstration with warnings. Removing print dialogue warnings and enabling silent printing requires message signing with a certificate and private key. QZ says the signing keys are generated in the customer's browser and that it never receives a copy of the private key. Only one instance can run per machine because the software uses a localhost WebSocket connection to a single port. Premium Support costs $749.00 per year.