Thermal vs. Inkjet: Which One is Best?
Choosing the Correct Print Method is Essential for your Business
The wrong decision will lead to wasted time, money and resources.
1. Understanding Thermal Printing
- How It Works: Thermal printing uses heat to print on specially coated labels (direct thermal) or uses the same heat to chemically bond a ribbon to the surface of the label (thermal transfer).
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Types of Thermal Printing:
- Direct Thermal – No ink, uses heat reacting material, fades over time, at risk of external heat and scratching.
- Thermal Transfer – Uses a ribbon, longer lasting prints, no risk of external heat and scratching (ribbon dependant).
- Best Uses: Shipping labels, barcode labels, retail tags, industrial applications, pharmaceutical booklets.
- Positives: Fast printing, low maintenance, high durability (thermal transfer).
- Negatives: Direct thermal labels fade over time, ribbons add cost when going with thermal transfer.
2. Understanding Inkjet Printing
- How It Works: Sprays liquid ink on to labels.
- Best Uses: High quality colour labels, branding labels, product packaging.
- Positives: Vivid colours, high resolution printing, works on various materials, affordable upfront.
- Negatives: Ink cartridges can be expensive, slower printing speed, smudging risk, printhead issues, more maintenance required.
3. Key Differences Between Thermal and Inkjet Printing
| Feature | Thermal Printing | Inkjet Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | High for barcodes and text | Best for colourful designs |
| Durability | Long lasting (thermal transfer) | Can smudge or fade |
| Cost | Lower operating cost | Higher operating cost due to ink usage |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Best Uses | Barcodes, shipping, inventory, pharmaceuticals | Branding, product labels, marketing |
4. Which One Should You Choose?
- If you need cost effective, high speed printing for barcodes or shipping labels → Thermal Printer
- If you need colourful, high resolution labels for branding → Inkjet Printer
- Consider factors like print volume, durability, and budget before making a decision.
Conclusion
Choosing between thermal and inkjet really depends on your specific needs. If you require fast, cost effective printing for barcodes, shipping labels, or are printing pharmaceutical booklets, then a thermal printer, especially a thermal transfer model, may be the best choice. On the other hand, if your business relies on high quality, colourful labels for branding and product packaging, an inkjet printer will provide the high definition results you need.
Ultimately, the right decision comes down to durability, cost, and print quality. If you're unsure which printer is best for your business, we're here to help! Contact us today for expert guidance on choosing the perfect label printing solution.
Call: 44 (0)28 3882 0733
Email: sales@bhtservices.com
