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Types of label printers - a guide to understanding different printer types
Industrial label printers make communication possible. They identify products, mark cables and help you track assets – and that’s just the beginning. From work-in-process barcode labels to colorful brand labels, they get work done.
But, which printer performs best? Direct thermal? Thermal transfer? Inkjet? Laser?
This article answers that question, using simple terms, visuals and comparisons. It covers technology and print applications, plus breaks down the advantages of each printer type. Before you add or upgrade a label printer, get to know what’s best for your work.
Thermal Printers
Label printers that use heat generated by a printhead to print are known as thermal printers. These printers handle a variety of industrial tasks and come in two types: thermal transfer and direct thermal.
Thermal Transfer Label Printers
These label printers use a wax- or resin-coated ribbon to transfer ink onto labels when heated. The ribbon is sandwiched between the printhead and the label. When the printhead passes over the ribbon, it heats up the ribbon’s coating, transferring it to the label to create an image.
If you’re looking for unmatched printing quality and durability for long-term applications, thermal transfer printers are an excellent choice. They provide crisp, high-definition text, graphics and barcode printing that survives chemicals, UV light, abrasions, moisture and extreme temperatures.
Use this printing technology for labels that have to last, such as asset-tracking or barcode labels. Thermal transfer printed labels are also ideal for identifying wires and cables, where frequent upgrades and installations are needed to remain safe and compliant.
Examples of Thermal Transfer Label Printers
M210 Handheld Label Maker
Take on your toughest on-site labeling challenges with the M210 Label Printer. Create fast, reliable and pre-sized labels with a wide variety of material options.
S3700 Multicolor and XY Cutter Safety Sign Label Printer
With multicolor print and shape cutting capabilities, this printer creates an impact with identification that fits your application and workspace needs.
Direct Thermal Label Printers
These label printers use chemically treated labels that darken when heated. A heated printhead comes in direct contact with labels to produce an image. This printing method is simple and doesn’t require ink or a ribbon.
If you need labels to last 6 months or less, direct thermal printers are best. They are a great choice for one-time applications where sharp, printed images and text are read and scanned indoors.
Temporary labels are useful in a variety of applications. Popular examples include short-term tracking of products, visitor passes, inventory labels and patient wristbands. Basically, direct thermal printing is for ID that only needs to last a short time.
Examples of Direct Thermal Label Printers
BradyPrinter i7100 300dpi Industrial Label Printer
With Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal print technology, this reliable, heavy-duty and high-accuracy label printer gets it all done.
BradyPrinter i5300
Get fast and efficient precision printing for high-mix / high-volume labeling with Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal print technology. The i5300 and related software allow for quick label set up and no-waste material changeovers.
Inkjet Label Printers
Inkjet technology is simple, but precise. These label printers spray tiny drops of ink onto labels without the printhead actually touching the label material. The ink dots are 100 microns wide (a micron is one thousandth of a millimeter) and require precise positioning to achieve their high-quality images.
Use inkjet printing to custom-print signage and unique identification. These printers offer high-quality printing with little maintenance. Plus, they require very little time to set up and adjust.
Due to an inkjet printer’s color capabilities, it’s ideal for safety messages like arc flash and hazardous material labeling. It can also be used to mark facilities: pipe marking, directional signs and Lean/5S processes. And in labs, switching to color printing reduces errors and makes sample identification easier.
Examples of Ink Jet Label Printers
BradyJet J7300 Color Label Printer
The J7300 prints industrial-grade full color labels for variable jobs from the production line to the lab.
Learn More
BradyJet J4000 Color Label Printer
Maximize productivity and impact with this industry workhorse built to handle the demands of your full-color label and signage needs.
Laser Label Printers
These label printers melt toner powder onto labels to produce a print. They use an electrical charge to attract toner from its cartridge to a drum. Then, the toner particles are pressed onto labels while heat from a fuser fixes the image in place.
Laser printers work for high-speed printing. They produce a clean, professional look, especially for text-based printing. Known for efficiency and low operating costs, they are ideal for creating documents, tickets and reports.
Thermal, Inkjet and Laser Label Printer Comparisons
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Thermal Transfer
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Direct Thermal
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Inkjet
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Laser
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| Multi-color printing |
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| Full-color printing (high definition graphics and photos) |
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| Barcode readability / scannability |
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| Withstands high temps, moisture |
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| Withstands chemicals |
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| Withstands harsh chemicals (ex: MEK, Skydrol, lab stains) |
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| Withstands harsh washdown |
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| 2 year shelf life for materials |
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| Ribbon required |
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| Ink required |
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| Toner required |
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| Suitable for indoor applications |
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| Suitable for outdoor applications (UV 2 year) |
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| Suitable for outdoor applications (UV 8+ year) |
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| Abrasion, smudge, and scratch-resistant (200 passes) |
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| 10+ material options |
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How Brady can help
When you’re looking for an industrial label printer, including desktop, pipe marking and portable label printers, label design software or materials – we’ve got you covered. Each printing solution is simple, user-friendly and designed to increase your speed and efficiency.
Need more?
We have it. Recognizing the modern workspace as an interconnected system, Brady supports your printer with a wide variety of materials and software solutions. These innovative products are designed from real-life situations and go the extra mile to ensure you meet your goals.
If you’re looking for additional solutions, we’re here to help. Let us know a little more about your application and we’ll gladly recommend products and services that can improve your work experience.
Shop Industrial Label Printers by Type
Resource Recommendations
Direct Thermal vs Thermal Transfer Printers
Learn the similarities and differences between direct thermal and thermal transfer label printers
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Wire and Cable Label Makers
Determine the right wire or cable label printer for your application.
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