There are two main types of thermal printing: Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer. The 80mm thermal printer typically uses the direct thermal method, where heat-sensitive paper darkens upon contact with the printhead.

Direct thermal printers are ideal for receipts, tickets, and labels that do not require long-term storage. They offer lower operational costs and simplified maintenance.

In contrast, thermal transfer printing uses a ribbon to transfer ink onto the paper, producing longer-lasting prints but at higher costs. Understanding these differences helps businesses choose the right printer type for their specific needs.

For retail, restaurants, and ticketing applications, the 80mm direct thermal printer remains the preferred choice due to its speed, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.