203, 300 or 600 dpi Thermal Label Printer
Thermal printers use dot-sized heated elements arranged in rows. Just like with pixels, the more dots per inch (dpi) the sharper the quality. Printheads are created using dots per mm: 8 dots/mm = 203 dpi, 12 dots/mm = 300 dpi, and 24 dots/mm = 600 dpi. The two most important factors for choosing dpi are the label's type and size. The thermal printer must also be able to accommodate your chosen printhead size. Many barcode printers can use a 203 and a 300 dpi printhead interchangeably; however, 600 dpi printheads may require a higher-quality printer.
The printer, ribbon, label, speed and temperature settings you use will all have an effect on the labels you print. Below are samples of a 4" x 2" label printed on polypropylene matte stock using a wax-resin combination ribbon on a Zebra ZT104 Industrial Printer. A PDF sample can be downloaded here and printed at 100% size for a visual reference of type size and barcode sizes.
The standard 203 dpi print resolution is fine for standard shipping labels, larger barcodes and most text. Small 5pt and 6pt text is not recommended and labels 1" x .25" may not print scannable barcodes. Note that text printed in reverse using serif typefaces will appear jagged and thin strokes will fill in.
- Direct thermal and thermal transfer labels
- Shipping labels with large text and barcodes
- All standard paper and synthetic stocks
The most popular printhead for the majority of label sizes is 300 dpi. It works well for shipping labels, average-sized barcodes and text. Small 7pt and 6pt text will print easily. Smaller labels will print well, with scannable barcodes. Note that text printed in reverse using serif typefaces will appear sharp; however, thin strokes will fill in.
- Direct thermal and thermal transfer labels
- Shipping labels, asset labels and product labels
- All standard paper and synthetic stocks
A 600 dpi print resolution is mandatory for printing labels that are used in the electronics and jewelry industries. This higher-resolution printhead is necessary for printing text at 5pt, all types of barcodes and QR codes. Synthetic stocks are often necessary for heat dissipation and require a durable resin or wax-resin ribbon. While more expensive, the lifespan of a 600 dpi printhead is much longer than a 203 or 300 dpi, with higher-quality print.
- Electronic, jewelry and eyeglass labels
- Small asset labels
- Synthetic stocks using resin ribbons
For more information or to discuss your project, Contact Us or call 888-237-8525.