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

Do you know the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels? More importantly, do you know which one your company needs? Each method uses a thermal printhead that applies heat to the surface being marked, however their are some big differences.

It really comes down to what type of label you need and what do you need it to do. Do you need barcodes that will last a long time and endure the elements, or do you need to labels such as  shipping labels, receipts, or tickets that have a shorter shelf life?

Direct Thermal Labels

Direct thermal labels do not use a thermal transfer ribbon.  The ink in the paper is activated by heat.  This is a popular type of label for the food industry because the labels typically have a short shelf life, six months or less.

A direct thermal printer uses thermal paper which is contains a special type of dye which that starts off colorless. When heat is applied to the dye, it changes color. It’s almost like magic!  Black is the most common color. The ongoing maintenance costs are lower than those for thermal transfer printing.

See our new direct thermal color product call RevealPrint!

These labels can be produced as blanks or in color using a flexographic or digital printing process.  We will work with you to produce the type of image you want on your products.

Direct Thermal Labels Fun Facts

• Does not use ink, toner, or ribbons
• Black and white printing only
• May fade over time
• Costs less than thermal transfer printers
• Requires very little maintenance or replacement of supplies
• Perfect for barcodes, shipping labels,  receipts, etc.

Thermal Transfer Labels 

Thermal transfer labels are similar to a traditional impact printer and uses a wax or resin ribbon. Heat is applied to the ribbon to produce durable, long-lasting images on a wide variety of materials. This process transfers ink to the label creating a clear, high quality image. Thermal transfer printing is perfect for applications that require durable, long-lasting labels.

We have over 250 thermal transfer stock sizes and adhesive combinations to choose from. We work with nearly every bar code label application imaginable. If you are not sure that a certain label material will work for your application, you can try our sample label roll program to test at your facility.

Thermal Transfer Labels Fun Facts

• Uses a ribbon for printing
• Can print in color with the addition of a colored ribbon
• Doesn’t fade over time
• Stands up to chemicals and extreme temperatures
• Great for printing logos, graphics, inventory labels, product identification
• Compatible with a wide variety of materials

Which one do you need?

If you still aren’t sure we’d be happy to talk to you and learn more about your business environment and labeling needs. Together, we can come with a printing solution that works with your facility and budget.

Send us an Email or give us a call at 888.972.5234 for more information.