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What Is the Difference Between Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer Labels?

Both thermal transfer and direct thermal methods use heat to print. Yet, slight differences between the two may make one a more suitable choice for your application. You can best decide between them by understanding their processes and advantages.

Direct Thermal

Direct thermal printers don't have ink or ribbons. Instead, they use paper with special chemicals. When the labels pass over the print head, a blackening process occurs on the selected areas of the heat-sensitive medium. 

Advantages of Direct Thermal Printing

Direct thermal printing has many benefits, including:

• Quality and simplicity: These tags produce easy bar code scanning and highly legible printing. Plus, the printers are easy to operate.
• Low operation costs: A printer and special paper are your only expenses — no need to invest in items like toner. These labels also enjoy a long shelf life and produce very little waste.

Common Direct Thermal Label Applications

Because of their advantages, direct thermal printing labels are ideal for applications including:

• Bar code printing, such as patient identification bracelets and shipping labels.
• Name tags and visitor passes.

Thermal Transfer

Thermal transfer printing stands up to light and abrasion better than its direct thermal cousin. It uses a heated ribbon passing between the printhead and the heat-sensitive media. During this process, ink transfers from the ribbon to the paper.

Advantages of Thermal Transfer Printing:

Like direct thermal printing, thermal transfers create high-quality labels. Among other benefits, you'll find:

• Durability: The primary advantage of thermal transfer printing is its ability to produce permanent labeling. Plus, the units themselves have a long life span.
• Versatility: Small but powerful thermal transfer printers are equally at home in settings from offices to industry. They can also print on various media other than paper.

Common Thermal Transfer Label Applications

Due to their more permanent nature, thermal transfer methods are ideal for applications like:

• Food packaging.
• Tamper-resistant labels, such as for medication.
• Health care settings, to print specimen labels for test tubes and more.

Choose Nev's Ink for Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal Labels

At Nev's Ink, our team provides unparalleled customer service and money-saving opportunities. Browse our inventory once you've decided between direct thermal versus thermal transfer labels. We offer a wide selection of thermal paper and tags, plus custom design options. 

Our in-stock products will be on their way to you within 24 hours, and our customized solutions typically ship within six days. Order online today, or contact our friendly representatives for custom design solutions.