With needs of a business forever changing, your business needs a printer that is reliable and able to take on anything you throw at it.
Throughout this guide, we will look at different types of printers, how to choose the right one for your business, and discuss how these may be a suitable options for your different needs.
What is a thermal printer?
A thermal printer uses a heated printhead, this will print black text or graphics onto special paper or ribbon. The two main types of thermal printers are direct thermal and thermal transfer. Direct thermal printers are designed to print on paper with a thermochromic coating that turns black when heat is applied. Thermal transfer printers use a ribbon with ink that prints directly onto the paper when heat is applied.
What are the key differences between these printers?
There can be a lot of differences between these forms of printers, for instance a Desktop Printer and an Industrial Printer has different levels of usage and requirements. Industrial Printers typically support larger rolls of labels and and ribbons, making them more effective for large print volumes. However, a desktop printer is designed for more general office and personal use. They are more suitable for smaller levels of printing,
How to choose the right printer for you?
When looking for the right printer for your business we understand that it is crucial to consider all of the various options. Your requirements need to be met effectively, and these are some of the questions you should be asking yourself.
- Application - where will the printer be used, is this in a warehouse, a retail environment, for transportation?
- Determine your needs - what requirements do you need for a printer?
- Check your budget - how much are you willing to spend?
- Print speed - How fast of a print speed do you need?
Top 5 printers we would recommend:
Picking out the best printer for your requirements is a crucial step for your business. Here is a selection of some of our Zebra Desktop and Industrial Printers.
ZD421
Experience the next level of printing with the Zebra ZD421 Ribbon Cartridge
Desktop Printer. Building on the legacy of the GK Series, this printer offers enhanced functions and capabilities, delivering advanced features for a new era of intelligence and flexibility.
Key Features:
- USB 2.0, USB Host
- Dual-wall frame construction
- 5 status icon, 3 button user interface
- ZPL and EPL programming languages
- 203 dpi/8 dots per mm, 300 dpi/12 dots per mm
- Available in Direct Thermal, Thermal Transfer, Healthcare and Ribbon Cartridge Model
ZD220t
The Zebra ZD220t thermal transfer printer (ZD200 Series) gives reliable operation and basic features at a reasonable price. Engineered with Zebra quality, it provides a dual wall construction for enhanced durability.
Key Features:
- USB connectivity
- Clam shell design
- Single LED status indicator
- Single button for feed/pause
- Dual-wall frame construction
- OpenACCESS™ for easy media loading
- ZPL< EPL or non Zebra command languages
- Zebra ZD200 Series is available in Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal print method
Zebra ZD230d
The Zebra ZD230d 4-inch Value Desktop Printer provides extra features, benefits and
reliable operation at an affordable price. With wireless connectivity for networked, remote printing and a dual-wall construction, it's built to last for years.
Key Features:
- 6 ips Print Speed
- 4-inch Print Width
- ENERGY STAR® Qualified
- Direct Thermal (No Ribbon)
- 128MB SDRAM, 256MB Flash
- 203 dpi Print Resolution (8 dots/mm)
- Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal Print Method
- USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity Options
ZD411d
The Zebra ZD411 Direct Thermal Desktop Printer enhances the capabilities and functionality of its predecessor, the ZD410d. With a new, innovative architecture, it can seamlessly handle multiple tasks and operations, setting the stage for future innovations.
Key Features:
- USB 2.0, USB Host
- Dual-wall frame construction
- 5 status icon, 3 button user interface
- ZPL and EPL programming languages
- OpenACCESS™ for easy media loading
- Print methods: Thermal Transfer or Direct Thermal
- Printer setup mobile app for Android and iOS via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy 5) connection* * BLE is provided for use with Zebra printer setup mobile app only
- Connectivity Options: Ethernet, Serial and Dual Wireless Radio with 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.1
ZT111
The Zebra ZT111 4" Industrial Printer is an entry-level printer that provides all the
features you need at an affordable price. With fast print speeds, built-in intelligence and time-saving tools, work is made easier.
Key Features:
- USB Host
- Simple 3-button keypad
- Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE)
- Direct thermal or thermal transfer
- Metal frame and plastic enclosures
- Bi-fold media door with large clear window
- USB Device 2.0, RS-232 serial port, 10/100 Ethernet
- Side-loading supplies path for simplified media and ribbon loading