Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer Resources

Label printers and barcode printers have two different methods of printing known as direct thermal and thermal transfer. There are ups and downs to each one and they are both appropriate for different situations. Here is a description of each printing method.

Direct Thermal

Direct thermal printers use heat from a print head to print directly onto media that has a special chemical coat on it. The image is made when heat is applied to the paper. Direct thermal technology does not need a ribbon. After a while, the images will begin to fade or blacken. Direct thermal technology is ideal for temporary labels, such as shipping labels, but not for items that may be exposed to high temperatures to direct sunlight. Direct thermal printing is an inexpensive way to print labels for temporary applications.

Thermal Transfer

On the other hand, if you need the media to last for a longer than six months, thermal transfer is the correct technology. This technology also uses heat, but instead of a print head applying heat directly to the media, it applies heat to the ribbon which melts the ink from the ribbon onto the media. Thermal transfer is ideal if you are interested in a higher image quality and need the media to last more than six months. The problem of fading or blackened labels is also eliminated with thermal transfer, but supplies for thermal transfer printers must be replenished regularly (ie. Ribbons).