Although laser, ink jet and dot matrix printers have the ability to output bar codes, thermal printers provide the highest quality and cost-effectiveness to users. Thermal printing is classified as either direct thermal or thermal transfer printing. Both direct thermal and thermal transfer printers provide:
- Crisp, clear lines and spaces for the best bar code read rates
- Long-lasting labels
- Reduction of waste
Thermal printing is also fast (up to 12 inches per second), making it the perfect choice for on-demand printing applications. As you can see from the comparison chart below, thermal printing beats out the competition and is the best option for bar code labeling.
|
Technology |
Print Quality |
Scanner Readability |
Initial Installation Cost |
Long-Term Maintenance Cost |
Materials Waste |
|
Dot Matrix |
Fair |
Low |
Low/Moderate |
Moderate/High |
High |
|
Ink Jet |
Moderate |
Low/Moderate |
High |
Moderate/High |
High |
|
Laser |
Moderate |
Moderate |
Moderate/High |
Moderate/High |
High |
|
Direct Thermal |
Moderate/Excellent |
Moderate/Excellent |
Moderate/High |
Low |
Low |
|
Thermal Transfer |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Moderate/High |
Low |
Low |
Let’s Get Mobile! Contact DecisionPoint Systems, Inc to learn more about thermal printers or mobile thermal printers designed for on-demand printing.