Thermal Transfer Ribbons: Wax vs Wax/Resin vs Resin Explained

A quick guide to thermal transfer ribbon basics: types, settings and sizing

Direct thermal vs thermal transfer Wax, wax/resin or resin Heat and speed settings Choosing the right size Near-edge vs flat-head

Choosing the right ribbon makes the difference between a label that smudges in a week and one that lasts for years. Here are answers to the five questions we're asked most about thermal transfer ribbons.

1. Why do I need a ribbon at all?

If you're printing direct thermal, you don't need a ribbon. The label has a heat-sensitive coating that darkens when the print head applies heat, the same way supermarket receipts work. It's simple, but the print fades over time and doesn't suit long-life labels.

If you want the print to last and look good, you need thermal transfer printing, which uses a ribbon. The print head heats parts of the ribbon (thermal), melting the ink so it transfers onto the label (transfer).

✔  Permanent print that lasts much longer than direct thermal

✔  Prints on a wide range of materials, including paper and synthetics

✔  Better resistance to heat, light and handling

2. What's the difference between wax, wax/resin and resin ribbons?

Lowest costWax Made almost entirely of wax. Soft, so it scratches and smudges easily. Good for labels with a rougher paper surface.

Most popularWax/resin A blend of wax and resin. Much better scratch and smudge resistance than wax, with good results on most label materials.

Most durableResin The best scratch and smudge resistance. Used for asset labels, machinery labels and labels used outdoors.

Resin ribbons can be harder to print with. The right label material and the right printer heat and speed settings are vital for a good result.

3. What do print head temperature and speed have to do with the ribbon?

Wax, wax/resin and resin ribbons each need a different print head temperature to melt the ink onto the label, and there can be variation even within each type. Print speed matters too:

✔  Too fast: the ink doesn't reach the right temperature and the print comes out faint or patchy

✔  Too hot: print quality suffers, with bleeding and blurred edges

✔  Just right: match heat and speed to your ribbon and label, then fine-tune with a test print

4. What size ribbon do I need?

To reduce print head wear, the ribbon should always be wider than the total label width, including the backing. You'll also need to check:

Ribbon width Core size Max outside diameter Ink side in / out

Not sure? Tell us your label size and printer model and we'll match the right ribbon for you.

5. What's the difference between near-edge and flat-head ribbons?

Label printers use one of two common print head types, and each needs its own ribbon:

Flat-head The heating elements sit in the centre of the print head. Most common printer brands, including Zebra, Intermec and Datamax (now Honeywell), use flat-head printers.

Near-edge The heating elements sit closer to the trailing edge of the print head, hence the name "near edge". These printers need near-edge ribbons.

Not sure which type your printer is? Send us the make and model and we'll check for you.

Article courtesy of AA Labels.