Thermal printing is a widespread printing method that produces accurate, high-quality images and text with clean definitions. This process is popular for its ease of use, quick speed, and overall efficiency.
There are two different technologies when it comes to thermal printing: direct thermal and thermal transfer. It is important to know the differences as each have their own pros and cons to printing as well as varying degrees of application.
Let’s take a look and see what each method has to offer so you’ll know if direct thermal or thermal transfer is right for you.
Direct Thermal
Direct thermal (DT) printing utilizes heat-sensitive paper that has ink embedded within the label material. When this paper comes into contact with the hot temperature of the print head, it changes color before rapidly cooling, leaving behind the desired text or image.Direct thermal printing is easier to use since it does not require ink, toner, or ribbon. This means less supplies and lower maintenance costs overall. Direct thermal is a versatile choice as it can be used in industrial, desktop, and mobile printers.Because it uses heat-sensitive materials, direct thermal labels do not have a long shelf-life, usually lasting around six to eight months. They have a tendency to scratch easily, and overexposure to direct sunlight or high temperatures will cause the print to fade faster.
PROS
- Simple to load and operate
- Low maintenance
- No additional cost of ribbon, ink, or toner
- Best for indoor & short term print jobs
CONS
- Short-life span of six months or less
- Only able to print on paper
- Fades faster when exposed to heat and UV light
- Scratches easily
- Only prints in black ink
Thermal Transfer
Thermal transfer (TT) printing requires a ribbon to print. The ribbon acts as a buffer between the print head and the label material. As the thermal ribbon passes over the heated print head, it melts onto the label. This printing method produces a darker text for more clear images. These labels are more scratch and rub resistant than direct thermal, and able to last for up to two-years. Thermal transfer printing does depend on several factors: media type, printer model, and application. Specific thermal ribbon materials are best suited for specific substrate materials, as the overall print quality can be affected.
PROS
- More durable than direct thermal
- Longer shelf-life, up to two-years
- Handles exposure to sunlight, chemicals, and heat
- Able to print color
- Requires a ribbon to print
- More costly method of printing
- Correct ribbon required for your printer model