Skip to main content
To the online store

Thermal Printers

Thermal Printers - Label Printing Through Heat Application

Thermal transfer printers

Thermal transfer printers use a ribbon that is guided over the print head to transfer ink onto the label material. Small heating elements on the surface of the print head heat up and melt the ink from the ribbon onto the label material.

Advantages of thermal transfer printing include:

  • durable print images
  • high print quality
  • wide selection of materials

A thermal transfer printer is particularly suitable if you want to print on various or demanding label materials. The right combination of labels and ribbon ensures high durability and makes the thermal transfer process the ideal choice for permanent markings.

Thermal Direct Printers

Thermal Direct Printers exclusively use thermosensitive labels, with the print head triggering a chemical reaction. Unlike thermal transfer printing, they do not require an additional ribbon, enabling more cost-effective printing.

Advantages of thermal direct printing include:

  • no need for ribbons
  • cost-effective printing
  • very fast print speeds

Disadvantages:

  • short print image durability
  • limited material selection

A thermal direct printer is particularly suitable for applications where print images do not need to be durable and where fast print speed is required. It is ideal for short-term applications such as shipping, transportation, or price labeling.

Industrial Printers

Label printers for industrial use are characterized by robust casings, typically made from plastic or metal. This durable cover protects the printing mechanisms and allows the printers to be used even in demanding and dusty environments. Industrial printers are available for both thermal transfer and direct thermal printing and often offer various print widths to create labels of different sizes.

Industrial or table-top printers are the ideal choice for companies that require large quantities of labels—at least 1,000 labels per day. These reliable models feature powerful printing mechanisms, high print speeds, and sufficient capacity for consumables. They are specifically designed for demanding environments and high requirements.

Desktop Printers

Desktop printers are compact thermal printers that are distinguished by their space-saving design and affordable price. They are available in both thermal transfer and direct thermal printing variants, as well as with various print resolutions. Some models are suitable for wall mounting, further saving space. Due to their limited capacity, desktop printers are more suited for small print volumes of about 500 to 1,000 labels per day. They are cost-effective to purchase and, therefore, ideal for businesses with low labeling needs. Some desktop printers can be upgraded with an external unwinder to increase the printing volume.