Thermal labels use heat to create a print on materials such as labels, receipt or tags. Thermal transfer uses a ribbon to transfer the ink to media and direct thermal print is created when heat from the printhead causes the direct thermal label surface to turn black.
(:1f539:)What is a direct thermal label?
Direct thermal labels are used for short term label requirements such as shipping labels. Since direct thermal printers don’t use a ribbon, they are noted for simplicity. Direct thermal labels are not suitable if the label is exposed to heat or sunlight for a long period of time.
(:1f539:)What is a thermal transfer label?
Thermal transfer labels are considered to have crisp, glossy printed surface. The clarify is gained by using printer ribbons. Thermal transfer technology produces long-life image stability and are more durable compared to dot matrix or laser printers.
(:1f539:)Do thermal printers use ribbons?
There are two thermal printing methods. Direct thermal and thermal transfer. Direct thermal printers does not require ribbons. Thermal transfer printers require print ribbons as they are suited for longer life span label requirements such as shelf labels, product labels or pallet labels.