When it comes to printing labels for your business, thermal label printers are often the go-to choice. They’re fast, reliable, and cost-effective for high-volume printing. However, they may not be the best fit for every situation and there are several alternatives for specific needs such as a colour labels printer. We’ll explore these alternatives, helping you decide the best option for your specific needs.
Inkjet Label Printers
One of the most popular alternatives to thermal label printers is the inkjet colour label printer. Inkjet printers spray liquid ink onto the paper or label material to create images and text. They are widely used for a variety of printing needs, including labels because they offer a few key benefits:
- High-quality full-colour labels. This makes them a great choice for branding and marketing labels that require vibrant colours or complex images.
- Inkjet printers are versatile and can print on a wide range of materials, including standard paper, glossy labels, and even waterproof materials.
- While ink costs can add up, but inkjet printers themselves are generally affordable, making them a good choice for businesses with lower print volumes or those that only occasionally need labels printed at home.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Inkjet printers can be slower than thermal printers, especially for large print runs, and the cost of ink will add up over time. Additionally, the labels printed with inkjet may not be as durable as those produced by thermal transfer printers, particularly if exposed to harsh conditions.
Laser Label Printers
Laser label printers are another viable alternative. These printers use a laser beam to transfer toner (a fine powder) onto the label material, which is then fused to the paper using heat. Here’s why laser printers might be the right choice:
Laser printers produce sharp, high-quality text and images, making them excellent for labels that require clear, professional-looking output.
Labels printed with laser printers are generally more durable, and less likely to smudge. They can withstand exposure to light and moisture better than inkjet prints, especially if you use toner-resistant label materials.
Laser printers are known for their speed and efficiency, making them well-suited to businesses that need to print large volumes of labels quickly.
On the downside, laser printers are more expensive upfront than inkjet printers. They are not as versatile in terms of the types of materials they can print on, and the quality and vibrancy may not match that of inkjet printers.
Pre-Printed Labels
Pre-printed labels can be a convenient alternative for businesses that don’t need to print labels on demand. These labels are professionally printed in bulk by a label supplier, should be of high quality and finish, and then shipped to you, ready for use, examples of pre-printed labels are great for promotional labels, food labels, and PAT test labels.
Pre-printed labels save time as you don’t need to print each label yourself. This is a great option if you need large quantities of labels that don’t change often, such as product labels or shipping labels with standard information. However, this may not be ideal for small businesses that need more flexibility in regularly customising your label logo, colour and design.
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Labels
Thermal printers are a great option for printing a high volume of durable shipping labels. When choosing an alternative to a thermal label printer, it’s important to consider your specific needs. A laser or inkjet label printer might be the best option if you require high-quality, full-colour labels. If flexibility isn’t a concern, pre-printed labels offer convenience and professional quality.
By understanding the strengths and limitations of each alternative, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business requirements, ensuring you have the right tools to produce the labels you need, when you need them.
