All About Thermal Transfer & Direct Thermal Printing
It’s easy to get confused about printing technology. If you are selecting a printer for use in generating labels, receipts, forms, or confirmations, you will likely find yourself trying to decide between thermal transfer printers and direct thermal printers. But what’s the difference in printing method? We created this explainer to help answer your questions.
What is Thermal Transfer Printing?
Thermal transfer printing is a method of printing in which heat is used to transfer ink or toner onto a surface, such as paper or plastic. This method is commonly used in a wide range of industries, including packaging, labeling, and identification.
A thermal transfer printer works by using heat to transfer ink from a ribbon onto a surface. The ribbon, which is coated with a special ink, is placed between the print head and the surface to be printed on. The print head applies heat to the thermal transfer ribbon, which causes the ink to melt and transfer onto the surface. This process is repeated for each print, creating a high-quality and long-lasting image. Be aware that the thermal ribbon will occasionally have to be replaced.
The Advantages of Thermal Transfer Printing
Thermal Transfer is Durable
One of the main advantages of thermal transfer printing is its durability. The images produced by this method are resistant to fading, smudging, and water damage, making them suitable for long-term use.
A Thermal Transfer Label is High-Resolution
Thermal transfer printing is also capable of printing high-resolution images and is suitable for printing on a wide range of materials.
What is Direct Thermal Printing?
On the other hand, a direct thermal printer uses heat-sensitive paper or labels. The print head of the direct thermal printer applies heat to specific areas of the paper or label, which causes a chemical reaction that produces a visible image. The image produced by direct thermal printing is not as durable as thermal transfer printing, but it is a more cost-effective option for printing short-term labels.
The Advantage of Direct Thermal Printing – Cost-Effectiveness
Compared with ink-based or thermal printing technologies, direct thermal printing is a cost-effective option for printing short-term labels. It is also a simple and straightforward process, making it easy to use for small businesses and individuals. Please be aware that direct thermal labels will fade over time and are not considered durable.
Common Real-World Applications for Thermal Transfer & Direct Thermal Printing
Thermal transfer printing is well-suited for printing high-quality and long-lasting labels for products, packaging, and identification. Thermal transfer printers are also used in printing barcodes, serial numbers, and other types of data on various substrates.
- Barcodes
- Shelf labels
- Product labels
On the other hand, a direct thermal label is fast and cost efficient. So the direct thermal print method is excellent for printing shipping labels, event tickets, and receipts. A direct thermal label printer is commonly used in retail environments for printing price labels, shelf labels and receipts.
- Printed recipts
- Tickets
- Shipping labels
Summing Up: Thermal Transfer Versus Direct Thermal Printing
Thermal transfer printing and direct thermal printing are two different methods of printing that have their own advantages and disadvantages. Thermal transfer printing is a durable and high-quality option, while direct thermal printing is a cost-effective option for short-term use. Both methods have specific uses and are suitable for different types of applications. If you are struggling to decide which printing technology to utilize, you are well advised to consult with an expert…
Contact CSSI To Select Your Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal Printer
To get assistance in choosing a reliable barcode label printer for your application, contact the printing experts at CSSI. We specialize in thermal transfer and direct thermal printer technology, and can support you in product selection, setup and integration, barcode or form creation, as well as replacement parts and printer support. CSSI can also assist in your selection and purchase of high quality print media and barcode label stock to supply your printers. Contact CSSI to learn more: