Each needle of the printer has an associated electromagnet with a generally elongate movable armature having a first end and a second end which can selectively push the needle during printing as a result of a pivoting movement within a step formation facing the electromagnet. The step formation divides the armature into first and second portions facing the first and second ends respectively, and faces the respective electromagnet in such a position that the second portion of the armature at least partially faces the electromagnet.