The question we hear most frequently from our customers is "Should I be using thermal transfer labels or direct thermal labels?"  Both are very similar yet each serves a different purpose.  Thermal transfer labels are designed for more durable, long term use.  Direct thermal labels are easy to produce but have a short life expectancy. 

Thermal transfer labels require the use of a thermal transfer ribbon to produce the image or text on the label.  Heat from the printer is applied to the ribbon and transfers the ink from the ribbon to the label.  If the correct combination of ribbon and label material is used the result is a durable label that will last for years without concern of fading or scratching off of the ink.  These labels are most commonly used when the application involves an environment where the label may come in frequent contact with people or other objects.  They are also used when the label will be used for long term applications.  Some examples would include product identification, electronics identification, price tags, or nutritional information.

Direct thermal labels do not require the use of a ribbon.  Simply put the labels in the printer and when the printer applies heat to the label the face material will turn black to form the images and text.  These labels are easier to work with but are only for short term applications, such as shipping labels.  Over time the images can fade or if stored next to a heat source the entire label can turn black. 

The decision to use thermal transfer or direct thermal comes down to time and application.  If you need the label to last for weeks, months, or years than thermal transfer is the better option.  For short term uses direct thermal provides an easier and overall cheaper label producing experience.