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Direct Thermal vs Thermal Transfer Labels

There are two thermal printing methods: Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer.

Each method uses a thermal printhead that applies heat to the surface being marked.

 

Direct thermal printing uses chemically treated, heat-sensitive material that blackens when it passes under the thermal printhead.

Thermal transfer printing uses a heated ribbon to produce durable, long-lasting images on a wide variety of materials.

 

Direct Thermal:

Uses printers like Seiko, Zebra, and Dymo. Simple to operate since the printers don’t require ink, toner, or ribbon to use. Considerable shelf life, though overexposure to heat and light can cause the material to darken and make any text or bar code unreadable. These should be used for short-term purposes, including shipping labels, tickets, receipts, patient/visitor identification, etc.

Only available as a retail product: 4155, 4150, 4153, 4151, 4156, 4157

 

Thermal Transfer:

Higher supply cost since the printer requires a ribbon. High-def print quality for maximum readability and scannability; images and barcodes last longer. These are great for long-term usage, including product/inventory identification & tracking, permanent identification, outdoor/cold/freezer applications, etc.

Only available with Custom WePrint Thermal Printer Roll Labels.


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