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Three Methods Most Commonly Used to Print Labels |
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| Print Method | Description | Advantages / Disadvantages |
| Dot Matrix Label Printers | Dot matrix printers use a mechanical system for printing. A "matrix" of pins impact on a ribbon to transfer the ink to a label. |
Dot matrix printing provides an economical, lowest cost option for printing labels. A wider variety of label materials are available than for DTP labels. The disadvantages are that labels do not have the sharp quality of the thermal printer labels. Printing can smear or rub off. Labels do not have the durability of TTP labels. |
| Direct Thermal Printing (DTP) | A heated print head* directly activates the specialized coating on the label material to create the image. Thermal fax machines, that use special fax paper, are an example of DTP printing. Many cash register receipts are printed using direct thermal printing. |
Economical - costs less than TTP. No ribbon is needed. Excellent for temporary or short-term labeling. The disadvantage of direct thermal printing is that these labels are not long lasting. Direct sunlight or heat will damage or fade the label. |
| Thermal Transfer Printing (TTP) |
A heated print head* causes "ink" on a ribbon to melt and be transferred to the label. *The print head used for TTP can be the same print head used for DTP. Thus many TTP printers can also make DTP labels. |
Produces a high quality, sharp image. Labels are long lasting. A wide variety of labeling materials are available, including materials for specialized applications. The disadvantage is that TTP requires the use of a ribbon and thus costs more than DTP labels. |
